Not Applicable
The present disclosure relates generally to a temperature sensing and temperature managing system for use in clothing, body gear, coats, jackets, and other wearable goods having performance requirements where it is beneficial to manage a desired set temperature through active and passive control systems.
Outerwear, such as jackets or coats, are static combinations of fabrics and materials designed to insulate the wearer from outside temperatures or conditions.
For cold environments, companies have developed specialized fabrics. As can be seen in U.S. Pat. No. 8,424,119 to Blackford, a passive material and pattern is shown that reflects and conducts heat. Another variation of specialized fabric is also shown in U.S. Pat. No. 8,510,871 to Blackford et al. Of course, for cold weather, clothing includes layers of fabric and insulation to contain body heat. With or without specialized fabric, all these jackets are designed for static temperatures. This means that for the passive wearer, the insulative properties are supposed to be sufficient to maintain a given temperature if properly selected for the right environment and, if the wearer remains passive, a level of comfort will be maintained. However, if conditions change, such as the wearer is active and exerting some level of energy, or the outside temperature increases, the comfort level decreases as the temperature between the jacket and wearer increase.
Thus, a need exists to overcome the problems with the prior art systems, designs, and processes as discussed above.
The present systems, apparatuses, and methods provide for a temperature control and monitoring system that create a stable temperature system to maintain a desired clothing-to-human interface temperature to make a more comfortable inside environment for the wearer.
An external opening and valve system is designed to open and close at certain temperatures to allow for external air flow to enter the clothing from the outside environment to provide dynamic air mixing within the clothing or within the air space between the wearer and the clothing (herein, the inside environment), thereby control temperature in or under the clothing. The temperatures at which the valve(s) open and close can be preset but, in an exemplary embodiment, are adjusted and set by the wearer.
Such systems, devices, and methods effectively create a personal contained temperature controlled environment that self-adjusts under changing conditions. Increases and decreases in activity, external air temperature, gaps between the wearer and the article of clothing can all be compensated for within the capabilities of the device.
The air control unit can be mostly passive, having at least one vent that can open based on temperature sensors, or active, whereby air is forced by a fan to distribute air where desired. The vent can also be a combination of at least one passive and one active vent.
There is provided a new clothing temperature control system for controlling and altering the temperature within clothing, such as a shirt, a jacket, a coat, a pair of pants, or person-coverable clothing such as a poncho, a scarf, a shawl, a cloak, and a blanket. As used herein, clothing or apparel are defined to include any wearable cloth-like item that is body-shaped or draped over the body; a number of different pieces of clothing and draped items are listed as examples herein. The clothing temperature control system directly controls the input of air from the external environment (also referred to as an input side) and allows a certain volume of the external air to enter the inside environment (also referred to as an output side) and mix with the internal air held within the apparel. For the purposes herein, apparel shall mean all personal attire, including coats, jackets, shirts, pants, boots, etc. By mixing air from the outside with air on the inside, the temperature can be controlled and maintained at a relatively constant rate. The air inside or within clothing, such as a shirt, a jacket, a coat, a pair of pants, or person-coverable clothing such as a poncho, a scarf, a shawl, a cloak, and a blanket is defined as the inside environment or microclimate.
In addition, the apparel temperature control system can monitor the outside and inside air temperatures as well as the internal heat rise rate to determine the best air mixing and air flow conditions to create a constant internal temperature, or one that declines or increases according to a program or user set level or pattern. Thus, the control system, with a built-in controller, microcontroller, or CPU can react and adjust to real time conditions as they occur. An electrical connection is made between the electronic components, such as the controller, the fan, any sensors, and any heaters and communication or transmission of data or values can be direct (e.g., wired) or wireless.
In one exemplary embodiment, a series of self-sealing louvers positioned in an opening are in a first position, such that the louvers are fully closed and louvers contact each other to create a substantially sealed opening such that air flow is restricted (e.g., >90% restriction) or cannot pass. The louvers pivot together in a controlled manner such that, when one louver opens, they are all connected and open approximately the same amount. An inexpensive bimetal thermostat can be set at a given temperature, and the expansion or shrinkage of the bimetal strip connected to the louvers causes the louvers to open and close.
In a second exemplary embodiment, a valve, which biased at rest in a closed position, can be opened by the pressure or vacuum of a small, lightweight, battery or solar-powered fan. An electronic thermostat is connected to at least one temperature sensor placed within the clothing (e.g., jacket), and, in particular, having more than one sensor in multiple locations. The wearer sets the desired temperature on the thermostat and when that temperature is reached, the fan turns on, drawing air past the valve and into or out from the clothing to mix outside and inside air to create the desired temperature environment.
In a third exemplary embodiment, a valve which at rest is in the closed position, can be electronically opened to allow air to passively enter or exit the clothing. An electronic thermostat is connected to at least one temperature sensor placed within the clothing, in particular, more than one sensor in multiple locations. The wearer sets the desired temperature on the thermostat and, when that temperature is reached, the valve opens, allowing air past the valve and into or out from the clothing to mix outside and inside air to create the desired temperature environment.
In another exemplary embodiment, the valve, louvers, intake, or exhaust is manually opened by the user.
In yet another exemplary embodiment the temperature sensing and regulation system can also combine control of the valve and heating elements within the clothing such that a comfortable temperature range can be maintained to handle different environments, such as a desert, glacier, forest, sports field, or Space Station.
The present systems, apparatuses, and methods provide a temperature control system where an air input can be opened and closed to control external air flow into or out of a jacket, clothing, fabric, or material construct.
The present systems, apparatuses, and methods provide a temperature control system where an opening extends through at least a portion of a piece of clothing, jacket, coat, pants or fabric, such that the opening extends to the outside environment.
The present systems, apparatuses, and methods provide a temperature control system where an opening or port allows for air to enter from an outside environment.
The present systems, apparatuses, and methods provide a temperature control system where an opening or port allows for air to exit out into an outside environment.
The present systems, apparatuses, and methods provide a temperature control system where an opening or port hidden behind a porous material allows for air to enter from an outside environment.
The present systems, apparatuses, and methods provide a temperature control system where an opening or port can be manually activated to allow for air to enter or exit a jacket, coat, clothing, blanket, boots, pants, or fabric construct to allow for external air to mix with the internal air.
The present systems, apparatuses, and methods provide a temperature control system where an opening or port is automatically activated at a set temperature range to allow for air to enter or exit a jacket, coat, clothing, blanket, or fabric construct to allow for external air to mix with the internal air.
The present systems, apparatuses, and methods provide a temperature control system where an opening or port is automatically activated at a set temperature range to allow for air to enter into or exit out from a channel, pocket, or air distribution configuration within a jacket, coat, clothing, blanket, or fabric construct to allow for external air to mix with the internal air and be distributed as desired.
The present systems, apparatuses, and methods provide a temperature control system where an opening or port, which allows for external air to enter or exit when in the open position, is normally in the closed and sealed position.
The present systems, apparatuses, and methods provide a temperature control system where an opening or port, which allows for external air to enter or exit when in the open position, remains in the closed and sealed position until the temperature control system opens or reopens the opening or port.
The present systems, apparatuses, and methods provide a temperature control system where an opening or port, which allows for external air to enter or exit when in the open position, remains in the closed and sealed position until the temperature control system opens the opening or port by activating a fan that creates a vacuum to pull the valve into the open position.
The present systems, apparatuses, and methods provide a temperature control system where an opening or port, which allows for external air to enter or exit when in the open position, remains in the closed and sealed position until the temperature control system opens the opening or port by activating a fan that creates a sufficient air flow force to open the valve.
The present systems, apparatuses, and methods provide a temperature control system whereby the temperature sensor is built into an independent unit that can be attached to fabric, jacket, clothing, coat, blanket, or other fabric material.
The present systems, apparatuses, and methods provide a temperature control system whereby at least one temperature sensor is placed remotely within the clothing, jacket, coat, etc., such that the temperature can be read at some distance away from the temperature controller.
The present systems, apparatuses, and methods provide a temperature control system whereby multiple temperature sensors are placed in different areas within the clothing, jacket, coat, etc., such that the temperature can be taken at multiple locations to create an average body temperature. For example, sensors can be located at the front and back of the torso. This can be one sensor, or multiple sensors placed at different points on the front and back to create a temperature map. Additional sensors in the arms, legs, neck, and/or head, such as in a cap or helmet can also provide data to the temperature control unit. This data can be managed and averaged or weighted as more or less important via the software.
The present systems, apparatuses, and methods provide a temperature control system whereby the desired user temperature is set manually.
The present systems, apparatuses, and methods provide a temperature control system whereby the desired user temperature is set electronically.
The present systems, apparatuses, and methods provide a temperature control system whereby the temperature control is BLUETOOTH® or WiFi® enabled, thereby permitting an external remote device, such as a watch, a smartphone, a pad, or any equivalent, allows for the temperature to be set through the remote device.
The present systems, apparatuses, and methods provide a temperature control system whereby the temperature control is BLUETOOTH® or WiFi® enabled, thereby permitting an external remote device, such as a watch, a smartphone, a pad, or any equivalent, allows for the temperature to be set through the remote device and the temperature range is monitored and recorded during a desired or set period of time.
The present systems, apparatuses, and methods provide a temperature control system whereby the temperature control is BLUETOOTH® or WiFi® enabled such that a remote device, such as a watch, a smartphone, a pad, or any equivalent, allows for the temperature to be set through the external device and the temperature range is monitored and recorded during a desired or set period of time and the collected date used to optimize the timing of the opening and closing of the air system.
The present systems, apparatuses, and methods provide a temperature control system whereby the temperature control system has at least one indicator light that activates when the unit is turned on to indicate power is active to the unit.
The present systems, apparatuses, and methods provide a temperature control system whereby the temperature control system has at least one indicator light that activates when the unit is turned on to indicate power is active to the unit and changes color to indicate power remaining in the battery.
The present systems, apparatuses, and methods provide a temperature control system whereby the temperature control system has at least one indicator light that activates when the unit is turned on, where the indicator light is in the shape of a ring, a circle a triangle, a square, a rounded square, a rectangle, a rounded rectangle, or other geometrical form.
The present systems, apparatuses, and methods provide a temperature control system whereby the temperature control system has at least one indicator light that activates when the unit is turned on, where the indicator light is in the shape of a ring or other geometrical form and the color of the indicator light can be set by the user either on the device or by a remote device.
The present systems, apparatuses, and methods provide a temperature control system whereby the temperature control system is attached to a fabric surface such that a portion extends beyond the fabric surface.
The present systems, apparatuses, and methods provide a temperature control system whereby the temperature control system is attached to a fabric surface such that a portion extends beyond the fabric surface external to the jacket, clothing, blanket, or apparel.
The present systems, apparatuses, and methods provide a temperature control system whereby the temperature control system is attached to a fabric surface such that a portion extends beyond the fabric surface external to the jacket, clothing, blanket, or apparel and is flush to the inside surface.
The present systems, apparatuses, and methods provide a temperature control system whereby at least part of the temperature control system is attached to a fabric surface through an opening such that a portion of the temperature control unit extends beyond the fabric surface opening external to the jacket, clothing, blanket, or apparel and extends past the inner attachment surface.
The present systems, apparatuses, and methods provide a temperature control system whereby the temperature control system is removably attached to a fabric surface.
The present systems, apparatuses, and methods provide a temperature control system whereby at least part of the temperature control system is removably attached to a fabric surface.
The present systems, apparatuses, and methods provide a temperature control system whereby the temperature control system maintains a preset temperature or preset range within a jacket, coat, blanket, or other piece of apparel.
The present systems, apparatuses, and methods provide a temperature control system whereby the temperature control system monitors the temperature within a jacket, coat, blanket, or other piece of apparel and compensates a rate of temperature rise according to a program that alters the volume of air input to allow for constantly changing air mixing according to physical conditions of the user.
The present systems, apparatuses, and methods provide a temperature control system whereby the temperature control system comprises a filter and monitors the temperature within a jacket, coat, blanket, or other piece of apparel by allowing filtered air to enter the apparel.
The present systems, apparatuses, and methods provide a temperature control system whereby the temperature control system monitors the temperature within a jacket, coat, blanket, or other piece of apparel by allowing filtered air and preventing rain from entering the apparel.
With the foregoing and other objects in view, there is provided, a self-contained apparel temperature control system comprising a clamshell-type body comprising an outer component and an inner component that, when connected together, define a hollow interior and an airflow passageway passing from an outside environment through the outer component, into and through the hollow interior, and through and outside the inner component to an inside environment and a cooling subassembly connected to one of the outer and inner components. The cooling subassembly comprises at least one temperature sensor configured to measure a temperature value of the inside environment and to electronically transmit the measured temperature value, a fan configured to move air from an input side to an output side, and a controller electronically connected to the fan and to the at least one temperature sensor. The controller is programmed to receive the measured temperature value, to compare a set point temperature value with the measured temperature value, and to turn off or on the fan dependent upon a comparison of the set point temperature value with the measured temperature value. The body is sized to be attached to apparel of a user. The outer component is configured to attach to the inner component with the outer component adjacent an outer surface of the apparel in the outside environment of the user and the inner component adjacent the inner surface of the apparel in an inside environment of the apparel adjacent the user. The measured temperature value is a temperature of the inside environment and, responsive to being turned on, the fan moves air from the outside environment to the inside environment.
With the objects in view, there is also provided a self-contained apparel temperature control system comprises a clamshell-type body comprising an outer component and an inner component that, when connected together, define a hollow interior and an airflow passageway passing from an outside environment through the outer component, into and through the hollow interior, and through and outside the inner component to an inside environment and a cooling subassembly connected to one of the outer and inner components. The cooling subassembly comprises at least one temperature sensor configured to measure a temperature value of the inside environment and to electronically transmit the measured temperature value, a fan configured to move air from an input side to an output side, and a controller electronically connected to the fan and to the at least one temperature sensor. The controller is programmed to receive the measured temperature value, to compare a set point temperature value with the measured temperature value, and to turn off or on the fan dependent upon a comparison of the set point temperature value with the measured temperature value.
In accordance with another feature, the temperature of the inside environment is controlled by regulating a volume of air entering from the outside environment.
In accordance with a further feature, the airflow passageway defines an outside environment inlet and which further comprises a valve disposed between the input side of the fan and the outside environment inlet and configured to prevent air from entering the inlet.
In accordance with an added feature, the valve is configured to open while the fan is running.
In accordance with an additional feature, there is provided a piece of apparel, the outer and inner components clamped together on opposing sides of the apparel, the outer environment being the environment outside the apparel and the inner environment being the environment inside the apparel, and, responsive to being turned on, the fan forces air into the inner environment from the outer environment.
In accordance with yet another feature, the airflow passageway defines an outside environment inlet and an inside environment outlet and the apparel comprises at least one of openings and channels fluidically connected to the inside environment outlet such that, responsive to the fan being turned on, air is forced by the fan through the at least one of openings and channels to be distributed about various locations within the inner environment.
In accordance with yet a further feature, the at least one temperature sensor comprises an inside environment temperature sensor and an outside environment temperature sensor, the inside environment temperature sensor is configured to measure an inside temperature value of the inside environment and to electronically transmit the measured inside temperature value to the controller, the outside environment temperature sensor is configured to measure an outside temperature value of the outside environment and to electronically transmit the measured outside temperature value to the controller. The controller is electronically connected to the fan and to the inside and outside temperature sensors and is programmed to receive the measured inside and outside temperature values, to compare the measured inside and outside temperature values, and to turn off or on the fan dependent upon a comparison of at least two of the set point temperature value, the measured inside temperature value, and the measured outside temperature value.
In accordance with yet an added feature, the at least one temperature sensor comprises a humidity sensor configured to measure a humidity value of the inside environment and to electronically transmit the measured humidity value to the controller and the controller is programmed to receive the measured humidity value, to compare a set point humidity value with the measured humidity value, and to turn off or on the fan dependent upon a comparison of the set point humidity value with the measured humidity value.
In accordance with yet an additional feature, the controller is programmed to periodically receive the measured temperature value and to compare the set point temperature value with the measured temperature value and to turn off and on the fan periodically to keep the measured temperature value at a given value. The given value is user-adjustable.
In accordance with again another feature, the fan is a variable speed fan and the controller is programmed to control a speed of the variable speed fan to optimize a volume of air entering the inside environment.
In accordance with again a further feature, the controller is programmed to keep the interior temperature at a given temperature and to keep the interior humidity at a given humidity.
In accordance with again an added feature, the given temperature and the given humidity are each user-adjustable.
In accordance with again an additional feature, there is provided a wireless communication device operatively connected to the controller and configured to receive the set point temperature value and provide it to the controller and a remote control configured to wirelessly transmit the set point temperature value to the controller.
In accordance with still another feature, there is provided a plurality of apparel temperature control devices each comprising the body and the cooling subassembly.
In accordance with still a further feature, there are provided wireless communication devices each operatively connected to the controller of each of the plurality of temperature control devices and configured to receive a set point temperature value and provide it to a respective controller and a remote control configured to wirelessly transmit the same set point temperature values to the wireless communication devices.
In accordance with still an added feature, there are provided wireless communication devices each operatively connected to the controller of each of the plurality of temperature control devices and configured to receive a respective set point temperature value and provide it to a respective controller and a remote control configured to wirelessly transmit set point temperature values to each of the wireless communication devices.
In accordance with still an additional feature, there is provided at least one heating element operatively connected to the controller, the controller programmed to power the heating element dependent upon a comparison of the set point temperature value with the measured temperature value.
In accordance with still an additional feature, the airflow passageway defines an inside environment outlet and which further comprises tubing fluidically connecting the inside environment outlet to different locations within the inside environment.
In accordance with still an additional feature, the tubing is constructed from a flat sheet of material formed to create a flexible tube and coated with a non-porous flexible coating.
In accordance with a concomitant feature, the body is sized to be attached to apparel of a user, the outer component is configured to attach to the inner component with the outer component adjacent an outer surface of the apparel in the outside environment of the user and the inner component adjacent the inner surface of the apparel in an inside environment of the apparel adjacent the user, the measured temperature value is a temperature of the inside environment, and, responsive to being turned on, the fan moves air from the outside environment to the inside environment.
Although the systems, apparatuses, and methods are illustrated and described herein as embodied in the adaptive temperature control system, it is, nevertheless, not intended to be limited to the details shown because various modifications and structural changes may be made therein without departing from the spirit of the invention and within the scope and range of equivalents of the claims. Additionally, well-known elements of exemplary embodiments will not be described in detail or will be omitted so as not to obscure the relevant details of the systems, apparatuses, and methods.
Additional advantages and other features characteristic of the systems, apparatuses, and methods will be set forth in the detailed description that follows and may be apparent from the detailed description or may be learned by practice of exemplary embodiments. Still other advantages of the systems, apparatuses, and methods may be realized by any of the instrumentalities, methods, or combinations particularly pointed out in the claims.
Other features that are considered as characteristic for the systems, apparatuses, and methods are set forth in the appended claims. As required, detailed embodiments of the systems, apparatuses, and methods are disclosed herein; however, it is to be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely exemplary of the systems, apparatuses, and methods, which can be embodied in various forms. Therefore, specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but merely as a basis for the claims and as a representative basis for teaching one of ordinary skill in the art to variously employ the systems, apparatuses, and methods in virtually any appropriately detailed structure. Further, the terms and phrases used herein are not intended to be limiting; but rather, to provide an understandable description of the systems, apparatuses, and methods. While the specification concludes with claims defining the systems, apparatuses, and methods of the invention that are regarded as novel, it is believed that the systems, apparatuses, and methods will be better understood from a consideration of the following description in conjunction with the drawing figures, in which like reference numerals are carried forward.
The accompanying figures, where like reference numerals refer to identical or functionally similar elements throughout the separate views, which are not true to scale, and which, together with the detailed description below, are incorporated in and form part of the specification, serve to illustrate further various embodiments and to explain various principles and advantages all in accordance with the systems, apparatuses, and methods. Advantages of embodiments of the systems, apparatuses, and methods will be apparent from the following detailed description of the exemplary embodiments thereof, which description should be considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in which:
As required, detailed embodiments of the systems, apparatuses, and methods are disclosed herein; however, it is to be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely exemplary of the systems, apparatuses, and methods, which can be embodied in various forms. Therefore, specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but merely as a basis for the claims and as a representative basis for teaching one skilled in the art to variously employ the systems, apparatuses, and methods in virtually any appropriately detailed structure. Further, the terms and phrases used herein are not intended to be limiting; but rather, to provide an understandable description of the systems, apparatuses, and methods. While the specification concludes with claims defining the features of the systems, apparatuses, and methods that are regarded as novel, it is believed that the systems, apparatuses, and methods will be better understood from a consideration of the following description in conjunction with the drawing figures, in which like reference numerals are carried forward.
As required, detailed embodiments of the systems, apparatuses, and methods are disclosed herein; however, it is to be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely exemplary of the systems, apparatuses, and methods, which can be embodied in various forms. Therefore, specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but merely as a basis for the claims and as a representative basis for teaching one skilled in the art to variously employ the systems, apparatuses, and methods in virtually any appropriately detailed structure. Further, the terms and phrases used herein are not intended to be limiting; but rather, to provide an understandable description of the systems, apparatuses, and methods. While the specification concludes with claims defining the features of the systems, apparatuses, and methods that are regarded as novel, it is believed that the systems, apparatuses, and methods will be better understood from a consideration of the following description in conjunction with the drawing figures, in which like reference numerals are carried forward.
In the following detailed description, reference is made to the accompanying drawings which form a part hereof, and in which are shown by way of illustration embodiments that may be practiced. It is to be understood that other embodiments may be utilized and structural or logical changes may be made without departing from the scope. Therefore, the following detailed description is not to be taken in a limiting sense, and the scope of embodiments is defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.
Alternate embodiments may be devised without departing from the spirit or the scope of the invention. Additionally, well-known elements of exemplary embodiments of the systems, apparatuses, and methods will not be described in detail or will be omitted so as not to obscure the relevant details of the systems, apparatuses, and methods.
Before the systems, apparatuses, and methods are disclosed and described, it is to be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting. The terms “comprises,” “comprising,” or any other variation thereof are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements does not include only those elements but may include other elements not expressly listed or inherent to such process, method, article, or apparatus. An element proceeded by “comprises . . . a” does not, without more constraints, preclude the existence of additional identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises the element. The terms “including” and/or “having,” as used herein, are defined as comprising (i.e., open language). The terms “a” or “an”, as used herein, are defined as one or more than one. The term “plurality,” as used herein, is defined as two or more than two. The term “another,” as used herein, is defined as at least a second or more. The description may use the terms “embodiment” or “embodiments,” which may each refer to one or more of the same or different embodiments.
The terms “coupled” and “connected,” along with their derivatives, may be used. It should be understood that these terms are not intended as synonyms for each other. Rather, in particular embodiments, “connected” may be used to indicate that two or more elements are in direct physical or electrical contact with each other. “Coupled” may mean that two or more elements are in direct physical or electrical contact (e.g., directly coupled). However, “coupled” may also mean that two or more elements are not in direct contact with each other, but yet still cooperate or interact with each other (e.g., indirectly coupled).
For the purposes of the description, a phrase in the form “A/B” or in the form “A and/or B” or in the form “at least one of A and B” means (A), (B), or (A and B), where A and B are variables indicating a particular object or attribute. When used, this phrase is intended to and is hereby defined as a choice of A or B or both A and B, which is similar to the phrase “and/or”. Where more than two variables are present in such a phrase, this phrase is hereby defined as including only one of the variables, any one of the variables, any combination of any of the variables, and all of the variables, for example, a phrase in the form “at least one of A, B, and C” means (A), (B), (C), (A and B), (A and C), (B and C), or (A, B and C).
Relational terms such as first and second, top and bottom, and the like may be used solely to distinguish one entity or action from another entity or action without necessarily requiring or implying any actual such relationship or order between such entities or actions. The description may use perspective-based descriptions such as up/down, back/front, top/bottom, and proximal/distal. Such descriptions are merely used to facilitate the discussion and are not intended to restrict the application of disclosed embodiments. Various operations may be described as multiple discrete operations in turn, in a manner that may be helpful in understanding embodiments; however, the order of description should not be construed to imply that these operations are order dependent.
As used herein, the term “about” or “approximately” applies to all numeric values, whether or not explicitly indicated. These terms generally refer to a range of numbers that one of skill in the art would consider equivalent to the recited values (i.e., having the same function or result). In many instances these terms may include numbers that are rounded to the nearest significant figure. As used herein, the terms “substantial” and “substantially” means, when comparing various parts to one another, that the parts being compared are equal to or are so close enough in dimension that one skill in the art would consider the same. Substantial and substantially, as used herein, are not limited to a single dimension and specifically include a range of values for those parts being compared. The range of values, both above and below (e.g., “+/−” or greater/lesser or larger/smaller), includes a variance that one skilled in the art would know to be a reasonable tolerance for the parts mentioned.
It will be appreciated that embodiments of the systems, apparatuses, and methods described herein may be comprised of one or more conventional processors and unique stored program instructions that control the one or more processors to implement, in conjunction with certain non-processor circuits and other elements, some, most, or all of the functions of the systems, apparatuses, and methods described herein. The non-processor circuits may include, but are not limited to, signal drivers, clock circuits, power source circuits, and user input and output elements. Alternatively, some or all functions could be implemented by a state machine that has no stored program instructions, or in one or more application specific integrated circuits (ASICs) or field-programmable gate arrays (FPGA), in which each function or some combinations of certain of the functions are implemented as custom logic. Of course, a combination of these approaches could also be used. Thus, methods and means for these functions have been described herein.
The terms “program,” “software,” “software application,” and the like as used herein, are defined as a sequence of instructions designed for execution on a computer system or programmable device. A “program,” “software,” “application,” “computer program,” or “software application” may include a subroutine, a function, a procedure, an object method, an object implementation, an executable application, an applet, a servlet, a source code, an object code, any computer language logic, a shared library/dynamic load library and/or other sequence of instructions designed for execution on a computer system.
Herein various embodiments of the systems, apparatuses, and methods are described. In many of the different embodiments, features are similar. Therefore, to avoid redundancy, repetitive description of these similar features may not be made in some circumstances. It shall be understood, however, that description of a first-appearing feature applies to the later described similar feature and each respective description, therefore, is to be incorporated therein without such repetition.
Described now are exemplary embodiments of the present systems, apparatuses, and methods. Referring now to the figures of the drawings in detail, there is shown a first embodiment of the apparel temperature control system, illustrated generally at 100, as shown in
The shape of the case can be other shapes, including but not restricted to a square, a rectangle, an oval, or a multi-sided polygon, such as a pentagon, hexagon, octagon, or other desired shape.
In
Choosing which fan to use is a balance of characteristics. Air flow volume, size, weight, and pressure capability are all key to performance. Insufficient air flow will not allow for cooling to keep pace with heat and/or humidity extraction. Insufficient air pressure would not allow for air to move freely around the body or move through tubing. In one embodiment, the tubing is constructed from flat material. This tube remains flat until sufficient pressure and air flow from the fan inflates it, making fan characteristics key elements. At the same time, weight, size, power and power consumption create practical restrictions. For an athlete, every gram is more weight they must carry, which can affect performance. Too large, and the temperature control system may interfere with motion or make it uncomfortable to wear. Drawing too much power requires larger and heavier batteries. Therefore, it is important to choose a fan or blower as small and light as possible that meets all the needed characteristics. Ideally, a fan or blower that falls within a size range of 17 mm×17 mm×8 mm to a maximum of 40 mm×40 mm×10 mm is preferred. This covers an air flow range of 0.9 cubic feet per minute to 8.0 cubic feet per minute, with weight ranging from approximately 3.9 grams to 15.6 grams. The specific fan within this range can be chosen to meet the remaining characteristics. Additional selectable characteristics include dust resistance along with moisture and water resistance. These fans are all available with speed control.
In
In
In an exemplary embodiment, the apparel temperature control system 100 is powered by a battery, in particular, a light-weight, high-energy density, lithium-ion battery or better technology. The goal in preferring such technology is to keep the weight down while providing a reliable power source. For long outings, solar cells/panels can be attached to the apparel and be connected to the temperature control system 100 to allow for recharging while wearing the apparel or for recharging after such wear. Flexible solar cells or panels can be matched to fit curves, such as the shoulders of the apparel 8. Together, the fan, the sensor, and the controller comprise a cooling subassembly of the apparel temperature control system 100.
By placing the air intake opening below the fan or blower, any rain has to flow upwards in order to enter the apparel. The amount of air moved by the fan or blower is not extreme. This means that most, if not all, of any small amounts of water, simply never make it up the air channel, allowing the inside of the jacket to remain dry even in heavy rain. Of course, a flap of fabric, plastic, or rubber over the opening that is porous or allows air to flow can also be used to help keep out rain and dust.
In
In
The air flow channel 26 can also be a shorter tube, long enough to contain the valve and necessary attachments, but with an open end that connects to a fabric tube or pocket that has an opening or porous covering to let air in. Such a configuration allows for many variations based on the thickness or type of the apparel.
One or more temperature sensors can be connected to one or more contacts that are built into the air flow channel 26. Thus, when the bayonet is turned, or another locking mechanism engaged, the contacts touch, creating the necessary circuit(s) to activate the sensors. The battery, depending on power draw, can be built into the temperature control unit 1, 20, or contained separately within a pocket or pouch in the apparel and electrically connected to the unit 1, 20 when the unit 1, 20 is secured to the apparel. Should it be desired, heating elements can be added within the apparel, and the temperature control unit 1, 20 can turn the heating elements on and off as needed to meet higher temperature requirements.
By placing multiple temperature sensors within the apparel, an accurate map can be made to control and set the desired temperature. Of course, one sensor can be used, but more than one sensor can provide a better overall picture. In an exemplary embodiment the output voltage of the temperature sensor(s) varies according to the temperature of the environment in which the sensor resides. A controller of the temperature control unit 1, 20 (e.g., a CPU) can read each sensor and come up with an average, or the software can adjust the result by weighting the value of a particular sensor to come up with a weighted average. The adjustment(s) can be automatic or the user can make adjustments as needed. For example, a jacket 8 is set-up with four temperature sensors. These sensors can be infrared, contact, thermocouples, etc. For the purposes of this example, the four sensors are Type K waterproof thermocouples. They are small, precise, react quickly to temperature changes, inexpensive, and can be left in the jacket when it is washed. By placing the four sensors in different locations, such as the upper back, the lower back, the chest, and the stomach, it is likely each sensor will register a different temperature. The temperature controller sends power to the thermocouples and measures the voltage returning from each thermocouple. With data from the four sensors, an accurate internal jacket temperature map is generated. Taking this one step further, if the jacket is open at the bottom and the lower back sensor is close to the bottom, the temperature may vary greatly from the others. The controller can measure this periodically, constantly, or on a user-set schedule and compare the measurement to the other sensors. The controller software program can then use the data as-is, or weight it, such that one or more readings become less important than one or more of the others, or valued higher. With data collected and treated according to the controller software, the controller has enough information to control the fan or blower to turn on and off as well as to adjust a speed of the fan or blower. If the jacket is equipped with a heating element(s) and the temperature drops to a set point or below, the temperature controller can also regulate that heating element(s).
By including another sensor in this example, the thermocouple can be placed to measure air temperature in the outside environment. With this, the controller has more complete data on the internal and external conditions. This allows for the controller and software to determine how much external air should be mixed with inside air and control this through fan speed and/or turning the fan on or off. In cold environments, if the jacket interior is too hot, adding cold air in slowly and in a controlled manner lead to a more accurate and stable internal environment, minimizing or eliminating overshooting the desired temperature by adding too much cold air.
Sensors for temperature and humidity are readily available. Examples include DHT22 by Aosong, TMP36 by TMP, DS18B20, by Dallas, and a series of sensors by SENSIRION AG, including SHT11, SHT40, and SHT85 among others. Some of the SENSIRION AG sensors are also water resistant to the IP67 standard. This allows for the sensor to be submerged up to 1 meter in water for up to 30 minutes, allowing the sensors to remain in place in the jacket or apparel for the purposes of washing or exposure to rain. When used herein, measuring a temperature or a temperature value means that a reading is taken that corresponds directly or indirectly to the temperature of the particular environment, e.g., the outside or inside. A given sensor may return a voltage value, for example, which may not be equal to a temperature but it is a value that can correspond to a temperature value that the controller can receive (wired or wirelessly) and interpret as a particular temperature.
In certain applications, such as heavy physical exertion or certain medical conditions, such as menopause related hot flashes, sensing humidity maybe just as important as or more important than sensing temperature. By using a sensor to detect humidity, the temperature control unit can respond directly to humidity changes, increasing or decreasing air flow to cool the skin by circulating air to cause evaporation of perspiration.
In general, the embodiments can use either a fan or blower to meet the air flow requirements. Furthermore, as the fan or blower is moving the air, the temperature controller unit 1, 20 can have a built-in heating element. For example, in
For apparel constructed with materials that do not absorb perspiration, such as waterproof membranes, the temperature control systems described herein have additional value. Waterproof membranes can be uncomfortable, as perspiration builds up and makes the fabric uncomfortable to wear. The temperature control unit 1, 20 can be used to force air into the apparel to reduce the humidity inside the jacket and make the jacket much more comfortable. Also, in combination with or in place of the temperature sensors, at least one humidity sensor can be built into the temperature control unit or in the apparel.
The novel invention described herein has significant value for the normal wearer as well as for extreme users bearing extraordinarily high activity levels. For example, an individual decides to walk an arduous trail with an outdoor starting temperature of 45 degrees F. The outdoor environment is also changing temperature and increasing to 50 degrees over the length of the walk. If the wearer chooses to dress for the start temperature, they will be uncomfortably hot at some point during the walk. Exertion energy generates heat, which, with the outdoor increasing heat, will likely require unzipping the jacket, removing layers, or removing the jacket. Dressing for the end temperature means the start of the walk is uncomfortably cold. By using the temperature control system, as the temperature increases for the wearer, the unit compensates and effectively provides cooling at a time when it is needed. The reverse is also true when the environment starts out warmer and becomes colder. Instead of the temperature control unit 1, 20 coming on during the hike, the unit 1, 20 can start cooling and slowly shut down as the environment becomes cooler. This allows the wearer to start with warmer apparel or more layers at the start, and later saving stops along the way to adjust while maintaining a desired temperature. As the system 100, 150, 200, 300, 400 can monitor the wearer's temperature as well as the outside air temperature, as long as the temperature differential is in the proper direction, internal temperature can be maintained. In addition, the unit can include a heating unit or elements that can be controlled by the temperature control unit 1, 20 to further compensate for cold conditions.
There are other manual ways of accomplishing the task of temperature control described herein. A bimetal strip expands and contracts as the environment temperature around the bimetal strip changes. This mechanical approach can be used to pull and push on louvers, to open or close a gate, or to open/close another mechanical device. The temperature can also be set manually by turning a dial that adjusts tension on the bimetal strip. The measure for heat exchange can simply be a port in the apparel that opens to allow air in or out, or can be used with the fan or blower, as in the configurations described herein. If used with a fan or blower, when air is allowed to flow, a contact or switch can automatically turn on the fan. Of course, in its simplest form, the air opening can be opened and closed manually. While this may not be the most efficient manner of temperature control, it is very inexpensive to add to apparel.
The air coming out through the valve 36 and exiting the passageway 32u in the rectangular section 32r of the base 32 can exit into one rectangular tube per side or be subdivided into multiple tubes to distribute air flow in various locations as needed. In
The apparel temperature control system 300 is configured to be as small and as light as possible. When the unit is off, and the speed (RPM) of the fan 40 is at 0, the valve 36 remains closed. This state seals air input from air in the outside environment of the apparel. Without a valve 36, if the port is open, cold, or overly warm, air can enter through the assembly. The valve 36 opens when a vacuum pulls at the valve 36. In exemplary embodiments, the valve 50 is flexible and resilient. However, there are other types of valves that can be used, such as ball valves, duckbill valves, plate on a spring, etc. As the fan 40 has the ability to output a range of cubic feet per minute of air, the air input openings and the valve are configured to overly restrict air flow, which would compromise the ability of the fan 40 to function as needed.
The top component 30 is effectively sealed from the air outputs of the base 32. When the fan 40 is turned on, air is pulled through the valve 36 and then through top openings around the valve holder in the top component 30. The air is then forced into the base 32 and out the rectangular passageways 32u in the rectangular sections 32r. The velocity and volume of the air is directly related to the RPM of the fan 40. The RPM is controlled through the controller that monitors the temperature sensor(s) and turns on the fan 40 and changes speed according to the controller software. The specifics of when the fan 40 turns on and off and what the temperature trigger is, can be predetermined, altered by the user, or automatically adjusted by predictive analytics or by artificial intelligence. The controller controls the RPM of the fan 40 from 0 to a maximum, adjusting as needed to maintain a desired temperature. Together, the fan, the sensor, and the controller (as well as any optional heating element(s)) comprise a cooling subassembly of the apparel temperature control system 300.
The rectangular air exit ports in the base 32 are shown in the apparel temperature control system 300 in a raised position, or above the fabric. This allows for a minimum of the base to be under the fabric, which is ideal for a very thin piece of clothing, e.g., a jacket or shirt. The configuration requires that at least a portion of the exit tubing 50 is on the outside surface of the jacket or fabric. For a thicker jacket or application, the exit ports can be located below the fabric or inside the jacket face, as examples. Thus, the location of the exit ports can be altered as needed to fit the application.
The connector 50 can have multiple tubes that extend outward and terminate at the same length or at variable lengths, which allows for airflow to be directed to various parts of the clothing, either internally or externally. For external tubes, a small opening, port, or nozzle can connect the inside of the tube to the inside of the jacket to allow for airflow. The nozzles can also be of different sizes to allow different amounts of air or pressure in one or more tubes as needed. While the apparel temperature control system 300 is shown with two air exit ports, this can be reduced to one, or the number of ports can be greater than two. Further, the location of the airflow ports can be made different than at opposing sides (e.g., at an angle to one another, next to one another).
It is noted that, the smaller the port cross-section is, the more resistance there is to the free flow of air. With the two ports, one port can be direct to provide air on the front of the clothing and the other on the back, or one for the left side and one for the right, or any combination thereof. The air exit ports can also be of the same or different sizes. Different sizes can be used to reduce air flow to one section or set of tubes or increase air flow to a section or set of tubes. Reducing the size of the exit port opening increases the pressure required to move past the opening(s), thereby decreasing air flow. As it is desirable to use only one fan to minimize the overall size of the system and to keep power draw to a minimum, the embodiments described and shown are beneficial ways to control air distribution should it be necessary. Tubing size can also be used to control air distribution in the same manner. However, it is possible to use more than one air control unit and use two or more fans to control air to various regions of the apparel, blanket, etc. Furthermore, multiple fans can be controlled from the same sensor data and control circuit. The multiple air control units can also be independently controlled by separate circuits and sensors.
For the tubing that extends from connector 50, it is beneficial for the tubing to be flexible, particularly when the jacket, clothing, apparel, or other item is also flexible. This allows the tubing to move with the wearer and be more comfortable during use. It is also desirable for the tubing to resist kinking and/or occluding. While various exiting tubes, such as those constructed from silicone, polyurethane, or other polymers are flexible and can be used, weight is an issue. For athletes, every gram is more weight they must carry, and existing tubing can be relatively heavy. To save weight and keep the tubing flexible, a novel approach is provided for herein. Tubing, which can include the end connector 50, is constructed from a flexible fabric. For example, stretchable polyester and spandex are combined to create a four-way stretchable fabric. The fabric is then coated in polyurethane, which is also flexible and stretchable. The polyurethane coating seals the pores in the fabric to create a flexible and airtight or substantially airtight fabric. This fabric is then formed into a tube and sewn at the seam. The seam can also be sealed by other measures in place of sewing, such as with fabric cement in addition to or in place of sewing. This configuration creates a very lightweight flexible tube for constructing the air passageways in the system. Manufacturing techniques can also weave this fabric tube in one piece. In addition, the tubes can remain in a flattened shape to expand only when under air pressure. In an exemplary embodiment, the fabric comprises between approximately 60% to approximately 95% polyester and approximately 40% to approximately 5% spandex, or between approximately 75% to approximately 90% polyester and approximately 25% to approximately 10% spandex. In a particular embodiment, the fabric is approximately 85% polyester and approximately 15% spandex. Other combinations can be used as well as other fabrics and coatings.
For curved sections of the tubing formed from fabric, the curve can be formed over a curved mandrel to allow the tube to have at least a portion of the curve built in after bonding and/or sewing. The curved section can also be created by cutting the fabric into a curved section in the area desired. In such a case, it may be beneficial to cut two pieces of fabric into the curved shape and then sew or bond the two seams together. Should it be desired to use a single tube and then curve that tube, and if air pressure through the section is insufficient to inflate the tube, a flexible coil can be inserted into the curved section to restore the opening.
An element of the system is to keep the assembly as small as possible but also provide maximum air flow. Taking these characteristics into account, it is possible to alter the geometry of the herein described and shown assemblies to place the fan at an angle relative to at least one air passageway. Such a configuration allows for better air flow with less turbulence without the need to increase height. In addition, this approach opens up the ability to increase air volume by utilizing a larger fan with a smaller thickness, as such a fan significantly improves air throughput. For example, a 20 mm×20 mm×8 mm fan can produce 1.3 to 1.6 CFM. In comparison, a 25 mm×25×6 mm fan can produce up to 3.1 CFM.
To take advantage of this property, an apparel temperature control system 400 is able to fit the larger fan in the body by changing the angle between the fan and the output lumen and by simultaneously providing larger openings and passageways for air. Angling the fan reduces the length of the fan holder while increasing the height but, because the larger fan is 2 mm smaller in thickness, this reduction compensates for the overall change in height while at least doubling the throughput of moving air.
An angled fan version is described in an apparel temperature control system 400 shown in
The angled fan 40 has a top face 40a facing towards the top component 60, a bottom face 40b facing the bottom component 62, a first side 40c, a second side 40d, a front face 40e, and a back face 40f such that it fits within the fan holder in the top component 60. The fan holder also can be in the bottom component 62 rather than the top component 60. Screws for attaching the top component 60 to the bottom component 62 are not shown. The screws can also be replaced by rivets, or there can be a combination of both. In a desirable embodiment, the top component 60 can be removed should the fan 40 or sensor 42 need to be replaced, or the item washed, and in such a case, the removable fasteners are preferred over permanent ones.
For the top component and the base, as well as other components shown herein, there are multiple materials and manufacturing approaches possible to construct the components. As discussed in the embodiments, one ideal way to manufacture the components is by additive manufacturing. This allows for the elimination of molds and creates material possibilities and easier changes and modifications which may be needed depending on the apparel or item. 3D printing is readily available and allows for complex part manufacture. Various polymers, including ABS, ASA, PETG, carbon-fiber-reinforced materials, PEEK, PLA, metals, and others are available. Titanium and aluminum are lightweight metals that can be used for this application. Materials and colors can be combined to create unique structures. Water soluble support materials allow for support of the printing structure for complex shapes and can be easily removed after printing. This can eliminate the need for support pins, such as those shown in the base 32. Standard manufacturing techniques can be used, such as molding and machining, and making the embodiments herein in multiple pieces to make such manufacturing processes possible.
It is noted that various individual features of the inventive processes and systems may be described only in one exemplary embodiment herein. The particular choice for description herein with regard to a single exemplary embodiment is not to be taken as a limitation that the particular feature is only applicable to the embodiment in which it is described. All features described herein are equally applicable to, additive, or interchangeable with any or all of the other exemplary embodiments described herein and in any combination or grouping or configuration. In particular, use of a single reference numeral herein to illustrate, define, or describe a particular feature does not mean that the feature cannot be associated or equated to another feature in another drawing figure or description. Further, where two or more reference numerals are used in the figures or in the drawings, this should not be construed as being limited to only those embodiments or features, they are equally applicable to similar features or not a reference numeral is used or another reference numeral is omitted.
The foregoing description and accompanying drawings illustrate the principles, exemplary embodiments, and modes of operation of the systems, apparatuses, and methods. However, the systems, apparatuses, and methods should not be construed as being limited to the particular embodiments discussed above. Additional variations of the embodiments discussed above will be appreciated by those skilled in the art and the above-described embodiments should be regarded as illustrative rather than restrictive. Accordingly, it should be appreciated that variations to those embodiments can be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the systems, apparatuses, and methods as defined by the following claims.
The invention has been described in an illustrative manner, and it is to be understood that the terminology, which has been used is intended to be in the nature of words of description rather than of limitation. Many modifications and variations of the present systems, apparatuses, and methods are possible in light of the above teachings. It is, therefore, to be understood that within the scope of the appended claims, the invention can be practiced otherwise than as specifically described.
This is a continuing application, under 35 U.S.C. § 120, of copending international application No. PCT/US2022/070588, filed Feb. 9, 2022, which designated the United States and was not published in English; this application also claims the priority, under 35 U.S.C. § 119, of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Nos. 63/278,765, filed Nov. 12, 2021, and 63/147,363, filed Feb. 9, 2021; the prior applications are herewith incorporated by reference in their entirety.
Number | Date | Country | |
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63278765 | Nov 2021 | US | |
63147363 | Feb 2021 | US |
Number | Date | Country | |
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Parent | PCT/US2022/070588 | Feb 2022 | US |
Child | 18446157 | US |