HEATING & COOLING CLOTHING FOR INJURY RECOVERY AND PREVENTION TREATMENT

Abstract

Therapeutic garment for treating, both in preventing and healing, injuries—a versatile and user-friendly device that provides both cold and hot therapy treatments. Comprising an inner layer, middle layer, and outer layer, wherein the middle layer comprises apparatuses retaining and circulating liquid for providing hot or cold therapy treatment. Further comprising the ability to regulate the therapy temperature and the exact location of the therapy, ensuring the necessary temperature for the entire duration of the session and allowing for optimal comfort and seamless integration with normal clothing/fashionwear while eliminating the inconveniences associated with traditional methods.

Description

FIELD OF USE

The present disclosure relates generally to clothing for aiding in the injury prevention and physical recovery of an individual. More specifically, the disclosure relates to wearable garments comprising both heating and cooling functionalities that enable an individual to both prevent and recover from injuries by controlling the temperature over the area to be treated for prevention or recovery.

BACKGROUND

Both heat and cold therapies are commonly used to prevent injuries and accelerate injury recovery. Cold therapy may be used to reduce inflammation, minimize pain, and prevent tissue damage. Heat therapy may be used to increase blood flow, relax muscles, and improve flexibility. Common methods for applying cold therapy include using: an ice pack, either commercial or homemade; a cold compress, such as a towel soaked in cold water then wrung out and applied to the injured area; gel packs or instant-cold packs; and large bathtubs for immersing the injured area in cold water. Similarly, current methods for applying heat therapy include: hot packs, such as commercial or microwavable; electric heating pads; a warm compress; heated gel packs; and warm baths.

Unfortunately, while existing cold and heat therapies are partly effective for treating injuries, there are significant drawbacks, impacting the ability to obtain effective treatment and impairing the ability to carry on regular daily routines. For one, current methods and apparatuses severely restrict movement—applying hot/cold packs, wraps, and compresses restrict movement and mobility, making it challenging for individuals to go about their daily activities while undergoing treatment. Similarly, they may require one to stay in one position or limit movement for an extended period. Likewise, it is not convenient to treat injuries with hot or cold baths; nor effective in treating only the injured area at issue. Methods such as baths or ice packs that melt can also lead to messes. Such options are also tedious and demanding, introducing delays and making it less convenient for individuals seeking quick relief. For example, making an ice pack requires having ice and a sealable bag; and heating pads require a method for heating the pads. Even then, the ice quickly melts and pads quickly lose heat. Also, pads are prone to overheating. This variation in temperature in current methods prevents the user from applying constant specific temperature to a desired area, thus reducing the efficiency of an injury prevention or injury recovery session in that the most efficient session would involve applying a constant specific temperature for the entire duration of the session.

Current apparatuses and methods have additional significant drawbacks. Holding ice packs in place with makeshift wraps or towels can be uncomfortable and awkward, making it difficult to treat certain areas and the need for readjustment may disrupt the therapeutic process. Some methods of heat therapy, such as warm compresses or hot water bottles, might be challenging to secure in place, leading to discomfort or inconvenience. And none of these options take fashion and aesthetics into consideration. Individuals using traditional ice packs, hot or cold wraps, or heating devices may feel self-conscious when wearing these devices in public, potentially affecting their overall well-being. Some heating devices, especially electric heating pads, often have bulky designs that are not discreet or easily concealable, thus preventing the individual from using the devices in everyday public settings as they would with normal clothing. If these devices were to be used in public, they would likely be considered unfashionable. Since current methods do not blend seamlessly with everyday clothing, these options lose the practical functionality of being used in public settings. As both cold and heat therapies typically require a specific duration of application, being unable to use current methods in public settings is inconvenient for those with busy schedules who find it challenging to allocate dedicated periods for therapy.

There is also no option for obtaining one product, apparatus, or method that provides both cold and hot therapy treatment. Current options do not enable one to control the exact temperature of the therapy to obtain the optimal temperature for therapeutic purposes and also to avoid burning or too cold of temperature, nor to maintain a constant temperature.

Notably, existing options require external reservoirs of water if there is to be water flowing through them. This creates additional inconvenience, as an individual is required to carry around a container of water, such as a water cooler, to enable the functionality of current treatment options.

Thus, what is needed is a novel and improved system for treating, both in preventing and healing injuriesa versatile and user-friendly device that not only offers both cold and hot therapy treatments but also seamlessly integrates into daily life such that it can be worn as regular clothing. To truly enhance the efficacy and user experience of injury treatments, such recovery and prevention clothing should enable an individual to control the exact therapy temperature, maintain the necessary temperature for the duration of the session and optimal comfort, while eliminating the inconveniences associated with traditional methods. Such clothing would provide a more effective, convenient, and aesthetically fashionable solution to treating and preventing injuries.

SUMMARY

The following presents a simplified overview of the example embodiments in order to provide a basic understanding of some embodiments of the example embodiments. This overview is not an extensive overview of the example embodiments. It is intended to neither identify key or critical elements of the example embodiments nor delineate the scope of the appended claims. Its sole purpose is to present some concepts of the example embodiments in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented herein below. It is to be understood that both the following general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only and are not restrictive.

In accordance with the embodiments disclosed herein, the present disclosure is directed to a therapeutic garment comprising: an inner layer comprising a first fabric; a middle layer—wherein the middle layer comprises a control unit; a treatment apparatus; and a dual tubing comprising of two tubes, wherein the dual tubing further comprises a first end and a second end, wherein the first ends connects to the control unit and the second end connects to the treatment apparatus—and an outer layer comprising a second fabric. Wherein the inner layer and the outer layer are joined together along a top perimeter of the inner layer and a perimeter of the outer layer; and wherein the middle layer is between the inner layer and the outer layer.

In other embodiments, the therapeutic garment may comprise an inner layer that comprises a first fabric; a middle layer; and an outer layer comprising a second fabric. Wherein the middle layer comprises: a control unit; two treatment apparatuses; a first tube, a second tube, a first wye split, and a second wye split. Wherein the first tube comprises a first end and a second end, wherein the first end of the first tube connects to one end of the first wye split and wherein the second end of the first tube connects to the control unit. Wherein the second tube comprises a first end and a second end, wherein the first end of the second tube connects to one end of the second wye split and wherein the second end of the second tube connects to the control unit. Wherein a second end of the first wye split connects to one of the two treatment apparatuses, and a third end of the first wye split connects to a second of the two treatment apparatuses. Wherein a second end of the second wye split connects to one of the two treatment apparatuses, and a third end of the second wye split connects to a second of the two treatment apparatuses. Wherein the inner layer and the outer layer are joined together along a top perimeter of the inner layer and a perimeter of the outer layer; wherein the middle layer is between the inner layer and the outer layer.

In some embodiments, a therapeutic garment may comprise: an inner layer comprising a first fabric; a middle layer; and an outer layer comprising a second fabric. Wherein the middle layer comprises a control unit, a treatment pad, a first tube, and a second tube. Wherein the treatment pad comprises a conduit, a first opening on a perimeter of the treatment pad, and a second opening on a perimeter of the treatment pad, wherein the first opening and the second opening each connect to the conduit, wherein the first opening comprises a first tube connector and the second opening comprises a second tube connector. Wherein the first tube comprises a first end and a second end, wherein the first end of the first tube connects to the first tube connector and wherein the second end of the first tube connects to the control unit. Wherein the second tube comprises a first end and a second end, wherein the first end of the second tube connects to the second tube connector and wherein the second end of the second tube connects to the control unit. Wherein the inner layer and the outer layer are joined together along a top perimeter of the inner layer and a perimeter of the outer layer. Wherein the middle layer is between the inner layer and the outer layer.

Still other advantages, embodiments, and features of the subject disclosure will become readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art from the following description wherein there is shown and described a preferred embodiment of the present disclosure, simply by way of illustration of one of the best modes best suited to carry out the subject disclosure. As it will be realized, the present disclosure is capable of other different embodiments and its several details are capable of modifications in various obvious embodiments all without departing from, or limiting, the scope herein. Accordingly, the drawings and descriptions will be regarded as illustrative in nature and not as restrictive.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The drawings are of illustrative embodiments. They do not illustrate all embodiments. Other embodiments may be used in addition or instead. Details which may be apparent or unnecessary may be omitted to save space or for more effective illustration. Some embodiments may be practiced with additional components or steps and/or without all of the components or steps that are illustrated. When the same numeral appears in different drawings, it refers to the same or like components or steps.

FIG. 1 generally illustrates an embodiment of a heating and cooling treatment clothing.

FIGS. 2A-2B generally illustrate an embodiment of a heating and cooling treatment clothing.

FIGS. 3A-3C generally illustrate an embodiment of a heating and cooling treatment clothing.

FIGS. 4A-4C generally illustrate an embodiment of a heating and cooling treatment clothing.

FIGS. 5A-5C generally illustrate an embodiment of a heating and cooling treatment clothing.

FIG. 6 generally illustrates an embodiment of a heating and cooling treatment clothing.

FIG. 7 generally illustrates an embodiment of a heating and cooling treatment clothing.

FIGS. 8A-8D generally illustrate an embodiment of a heating and cooling treatment clothing.

FIG. 9 generally illustrates an embodiment of a heating and cooling treatment clothing.

FIG. 10 generally illustrates an embodiment of a heating and cooling treatment clothing.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE ILLUSTRATIVE EMBODIMENTS

Before the present apparatuses, methods, and systems are disclosed and described, it is to be understood that the apparatuses, methods, and systems are not limited to specific methods, specific components, or to particular implementations. It is also to be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting. Various embodiments are described with reference to the drawings. In the following description, for purposes of explanation, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of one or more embodiments. It may be evident, however, that the various embodiments may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known structures and devices are shown in block diagram form to facilitate describing these embodiments.

In accordance with the embodiments disclosed herein, the present disclosure is directed to clothing that combines hardware and software in wearable technology that can increase or decrease in temperature in order to treat and prevent injuries.

New benefits and improvements of the disclosed heating and cooling treatment clothing are many. One is effectiveness, enabling injury prevention and healing at the exact desired temperature over the exact desired area for the whole duration of the injury prevention or healing session. As the most efficient injury prevention or recovery session would involve applying a constant desired temperature for the duration of the session—as opposed to temperature variation that may include temperatures other than the desired temperature—the improvement also provides an efficient benefit. Another benefit in terms of efficiency this improvement provides is enabling an individual to simply put on the disclosed treatment clothing, press the power button, and begin the injury prevention or recovery treatment—thus doing away with the many steps, mess, and hassle of the other currently available options. Similarly, the disclosed treatment clothing enables both options of heating and cooling, applied to an entire area of the body without needing multiple hot or cold packs or compressions to treat a large area. An additional benefit includes the integration with software or electronic programs. For example, the treatment clothing may treat the exact area of need as identified through sensors while tracking and managing relevant data via software applications. And it may do so with the comfort, ease, and portability of everyday wear, such as a favorite shirt or sweatpants, allowing an individual to wear the disclosed technology as actual clothing in and out of the home while carrying on with daily activities and tasks.

FIG. 1 generally illustrates an embodiment of a heating and cooling treatment clothing. As shown in FIG. 1, an embodiment of the treatment clothing 105 comprises two treatment pads 110A/110B, a control unit 115, and two paired tubings 120A/120B connecting the control unit 115 to the treatment pads 110A/110B. In this embodiment, treatment pads are connected to the control unit 115 via paired tubing 120A/120B: The treatment pad 110A is connected to the control unit 115 via the paired tubing 120A and the treatment pad 110B is connected to the control unit 115 via the paired tubing 120B. An embodiment of the treatment clothing 105 may comprise fluid retained and circulating within the treatment pads 110A/110B, control unit 115, and paired tubings 120A/120B. The control unit 115 may be disconnected from the paired tubings 120A/120B and removed from the treatment clothing 105; wherein as soon as the control unit 115 is disconnected, the fluid is maintained within the treatment pads 110A/110B, control unit 115, and paired tubings 120A/120B.

Whereas FIG. 1 discloses a heating and cooling treatment clothing that is a short-sleeve t-shirt, embodiments of the treatment clothing comprise any and all clothing. For example, embodiments of a treatment clothing may comprise: hats, caps, beanies, facemasks, neck sleeves/braces, scarves, long-sleeve tops, short-sleeve tops, vest/sleeveless tops, tank tops, arm sleeves, gloves, shorts, pants, leg sleeves, ankle sleeves/braces, socks, and full-body suits.

Whereas FIG. 1 discloses two treatment pads, other embodiments may comprise one treatment pad or may comprise three or more treatment pads. And whereas FIG. 1 discloses the treatment pads located on the shoulder area, other embodiments may comprise the treatment pads located in any one area in relation to the human body. For example, the treatment pads may be located in the upper middle back of the treatment clothing in FIG. 1, such that the treatment pads may treat the upper middle-back muscles. Or the treatment pads may be located in the left and right areas directly under the arm and extending along the side of the treatment clothing in FIG. 1, such that the treatment pads may treat the left and right torso and rib cage areas.

Similarly, whereas FIG. 1 discloses a control unit situated towards the bottom middle of the treatment clothing—wherein the control unit may be either in the front or the back of the treatment clothing—other embodiments may comprise the control unit situated in any location in relation to the user's body. For example, the control unit may be located to either the left or right side of the treatment clothing in FIG. 1. Or in another embodiment may be located in the front upper-chest area. Or the control unit may be positioned outside of the treatment clothing 105.

Likewise, whereas FIG. 1 discloses paired tubings situated along the center of the treatment clothing—wherein the paired tubings may be either in the front or the back of the treatment clothing—other embodiments may comprise the paired tubings situated in any location in relation to the user's body so as to enable the various locations of the treatment pads and control units. For example, in relation to FIG. 1, in an embodiment where the control unit may be located in the left chest area and a treatment pad located along the upper-to-middle back area of the shoulders, the paired tubing may extend from the control unit down under the left arm and along the bottom of the left back muscle to the treatment pad.

FIG. 2A generally illustrates an embodiment of a heating and cooling treatment clothing. As shown in FIG. 2A, one embodiment of the treatment clothing 200 comprises three layers: an inner layer 205, a middle layer 210, and an outer layer 220. All three layers may be joined such that the treatment clothing 200 is worn like normal clothing.

The inner layer 205 may comprise fabric to be worn directly in contact with the skin and which contours with the surface of the skin. The inner layer 205 may thus provide the comfort and breathability of normal clothing, while also facilitating temperature transfer from the middle layer 210 to the user's skin.

The middle layer 210 may comprise treatment pads, paired tubing, and a control unit, wherein the control unit may comprise a temperature control system, a water circulation system, a circuit board with a Bluetooth® pairing device, and may function as a power source. The treatment pads and paired tubing of the middle layer 210 may retain and circulate water and the control unit may heat or cool the retained water such that the middle layer 210 provides the therapeutic heating or cooling functionality.

The outer layer 220 may comprise fabric covering the middle layer 210 and connecting to the inner layer 205 in order to hold the middle layer 210 in place. The outer layer 220 may have a power button to turn on the treatment clothing 200 manually. The outer layer 220, together with the inner layer 205 and middle layer 210, provides both the comfort and external appearance of normal clothing.

In one embodiment, the treatment pads of the middle layer 210 are connected to the inner layer 205 by any means that fix the treatment pads in a static position—such as by stitching, additional use of fabric, or using adhesive. The paired tubings may similarly be positioned to remain in a static position or may not be positioned at all, such that they can be freely moved. The inner layer 205 and outer layer 220 may be connected—by any means to fix them together—at the collar and bottom of the sleeves of the treatment clothing 200. In this embodiment, the bottoms of the inner layer 205 and outer layer 220 are not joined, such that the user may have the benefit of repositioning the paired tubings and/or control unit to any desired location. Another embodiment may comprise the inner layer 205 and outer layer 220 also being joined at the bottom. And other embodiments may comprise the inner layer 205 and outer layer 220 being joined at various locations of the treatment clothing so as to maintain the static or non-static location of the middle layer 210.

FIG. 2B generally illustrates an embodiment of a heating and cooling treatment clothing. As shown in FIG. 2B, an embodiment of a cross section 250 of the treatment clothing 200 may comprise three layers: an inner layer 205, a middle layer 210, and an outer layer 220. The three layers are connected together such that they function as a single article of clothing to be worn by an individual over the individual's body 260.

While FIGS. 2A and 2B, as well as other figures herein, disclose the treatment clothing 200 in the form of a t-shirt, other embodiments of the treatment clothing 200 may comprise hats, caps, beanies, facemasks, neck sleeves/braces, scarves, long-sleeve tops, short-sleeve tops, vest/sleeveless tops, tank tops, arm sleeves, gloves, shorts, pants, leg sleeves, ankle sleeves/braces, socks, and full-body suits. Similarly, all pieces of the disclosed treatment clothing may be combined to form a full-body suit. Or a full-body suit comprising an inner layer 205, a middle layer 210, and an outer layer 220 may be a one-piece full-body suit. Likewise, for any treatment clothing disclosed in any of the Figures herein, other embodiments may be in the form of any article of clothing.

FIG. 3A generally illustrates an embodiment of a heating and cooling treatment clothing. As shown in FIG. 3A, an embodiment of a middle layer 300 of a treatment clothing comprises one or more treatment pads 305A and 305B, a control unit 310, and paired tubing 315 connecting the treatment pads 305A and 305B to the control unit 310.

While prior figures have disclosed embodiments comprising two treatment pads each with its own paired tubing that connect to the control unit, other embodiments may comprise two treatment pads connected to the same paired tubing that is connected to the control unit. Still, other embodiments may comprise a single treatment pad or three or more treatment pads. In these embodiments, each treatment pad may be connected to its own paired tubing or share the paired tubing with one or more other treatment pads via a wye split for tubing.

FIG. 3B generally illustrates an embodiment of a heating and cooling treatment clothing. As shown in FIG. 3B, an embodiment of a middle layer of a treatment clothing comprises one or more treatment pads 320A and 320B, a control unit 335, and paired tubing connecting the treatment pads 320A/320B to the control unit 335. In this embodiment, the paired tubing comprises a first tube 325 and a second tube 330, wherein the first tube 325 is connected to both treatment pads 320A/320B via a first wye split 340, and wherein the second tube 330 is connected to both treatment pads 320A/320B via a second wye split 345. The wye splits 340/345 enable liquid to travel through the first tube 325 and the first wye split 340 to enter each of the treatment pads 320A/320B, after which the liquid exits each of the treatment pads 320A/320B by going through the second wye split 345 and the second tube 330 before entering back into the control unit 335. While the embodiment discloses liquid exiting the control unit 335 via the first tube 325 and entering back into the control unit 335 via the second tube 330, other embodiments may comprise of liquid exiting the control unit 335 via the second tube 330 and entering back into the control unit 335 via the first tube 325.

In another embodiment, a first end of a tube may be connected to the control unit and a second end of the tube may be connected to a wye split, wherein the wye split is connected to two or more separate tubes, wherein the two or more separate tubes are connected to the treatment pads.

FIG. 3C generally illustrates an embodiment of a heating and cooling treatment clothing. As shown in FIG. 3C, an embodiment of a middle layer of a treatment clothing comprises one treatment pad 350, a control unit 365, and a first tubing 355 and a second tubing 360 connecting the treatment pad 350 to the control unit 365. In this embodiment, liquid exits the control unit 365 and travels through the first tube 355 to the treatment pad 350, after which the liquid exits the treatment pad 350 by going through the second tubing 360 before entering back into the control unit 365.

In one embodiment, the treatment pad 350 may comprise one or more body-temperature sensors 370 and the control unit 365 may comprise one or more water-temperature sensors 375. In an embodiment, the control unit 365 may comprise a water-temperature sensor 375 so as to monitor the temperature of the fluid circulating through the control unit 365. Monitoring the temperature of the fluid circulating through the control unit 365 enables the user to select an exact temperature to apply to an area of need. In another embodiment, the treatment pad 350 may comprise one or more body-temperature sensors 370 so as to monitor the body temperature of the user. Monitoring the user's body temperature enables the user to identify areas that may be in need of heating or cooling treatment.

In one embodiment, water is used as the liquid that circulates within the treatment pads, tubings, and control unit. However, any type of liquid may be used in the embodiments disclosed herein.

In one embodiment, tubing is made of polyurethane. In another embodiment, tubing is made from any other material suitable to retain and circulate liquid.

In one embodiment, a treatment pad may function as a liquid-circulating object. It may be comprised of a coated nylon that is welded together along its perimeter and may also be welded together within its perimeter. In either or both cases, such welding provides for the formation of conduits through which fluid may pass. Embodiments may also comprise welding dots dispersed throughout the conduits.

In one embodiment, a treatment pad is made of urethane-coated nylon. In another embodiment, a treatment pad may have a coating of PVC or other plastic used in tubing.

Embodiments of treatment pads may comprise one or more openings on the perimeter and in connection with the conduits, so as to allow fluid to enter and exit the conduit of the treatment pad. Such openings may be sufficient in size such that a tube connector may be placed therein and serve as a connection between the conduit of the treatment pad and a tubing that connects the treatment pad to a control unit.

Benefits of embodiments of the conduits within the treatment pads comprise flexibility, wherein the treatment pads contour to the treatment area as well as the inner and outer layers. Other benefits may be: a larger surface area is treated as a result of the flexibility of the treatment pads; heat or cold treatment is dispersed across a broader area and more uniformly; and less restriction placed upon the user, since the treatment pad enables the user to wear the treatment clothing as any other clothing.

FIG. 4A generally illustrates an embodiment of a heating and cooling treatment clothing. As shown in FIG. 4A, an embodiment of a treatment pad may comprise a symmetric design, wherein a line of symmetry 405 extends from the center top to the bottom and the left side 410 and right side 415 are mirror images of each other. Such an embodiment may be used to treat a portion of the body—for example, the forearm—such that the treatment pad contours around that portion of the body. The treatment pad may comprise a first tube opening 420 and a second tube opening 425. Wherein the first tube opening 420 and second tube opening 425 are connected to a conduit 430. Wherein the conduit 430 is created by a perimeter welding 435, an inner welding 440, and spot welds 445.

FIG. 4B generally illustrates an embodiment of a heating and cooling treatment clothing. As shown in FIG. 4B, an embodiment of a treatment pad may comprise a first conduit 455 and a second conduit 465. Wherein the first conduit 455 is connected to a first tube opening 450A and a second tube opening 450B. And the second conduit 465 is connected to a third tube opening 460A and a fourth tube opening 460B. In such an embodiment, liquid may travel through each of the conduits via each of their respective tube openings. Such an embodiment comprises a design that is not symmetric and still allows for the treatment of a specific area, like the thorax.

FIG. 4C generally illustrates an embodiment of a heating and cooling treatment clothing. As shown in FIG. 4C, an embodiment of a treatment pad may comprise a conduit 480 connected to a first tube opening 470 and a second tube opening 475. Such an embodiment comprises a design that is not symmetric and still allows for the treatment of a specific area, like a user's backside.

FIG. 5A generally illustrates an embodiment of a heating and cooling treatment clothing. As shown in FIG. 5A, an embodiment of a treatment pad may comprise a conduit 505 connected to a first tube opening 510 and a second tube opening 515. Such an embodiment comprises a design that allows for the treatment of a hand.

FIG. 5B generally illustrates an embodiment of a heating and cooling treatment clothing. As shown in FIG. 5B, an embodiment of a treatment pad may comprise a conduit 520 connected to a first tube opening 525 and a second tube opening 530. Such an embodiment comprises a design that allows for the treatment of a foot.

FIG. 5C generally illustrates an embodiment of a heating and cooling treatment clothing. As shown in FIG. 5C, an embodiment of a treatment pad may comprise a conduit 535 connected to a first tube opening 540 and a second tube opening 545. Such an embodiment comprises a design that allows for the treatment of a user's chest area.

FIG. 6 generally illustrates an embodiment of a heating and cooling treatment clothing. As shown in FIG. 6, an embodiment of a middle layer 600 of a treatment clothing may comprise one or more treatment tubes forming a series of treatment tubes 605 connected to a control unit 610 via dual tubing 615. In this embodiment, fluid may be retained and circulated within the treatment tubes 605, control unit 610, and dual tubing 615. The control unit 610 may be disconnected from the dual tubing 615 and removed from the treatment clothing; wherein as soon as the control unit 610 is disconnected, the fluid is maintained within the treatment tubes 605, control unit 610, and dual tubing 615. As shown in FIG. 6, wye splits 620 may connect the treatment tubes 605 to the dual tubing 615 such that that the treatment tubes 605 may cover a large area of the body.

The middle layer 600 may be like the middle layer described in the prior embodiments. For example, the middle layer 600 may replace the middle layer 210 in FIG. 2A, such that the middle layer 600 is placed between the inner layer 205 and outer layer 220. The treatment tubes 605 of the middle layer 600 may function like and serve the same purpose as the treatment pads described above, wherein the treatment tubes 605 are situated between the inner and outer layers and positioned in specific portions of the treatment clothing in relation to the human body. For example, the treatment tubes 605 may be located in the upper middle back of the treatment clothing in FIG. 2, such that the treatment tubes 605 may treat the upper middle-back. Or the treatment tubes 605 may be located in the left and right areas directly under the arm and extending along the side of the treatment clothing in FIG. 2, such that the treatment tubes 605 may treat the left and right torso and rib cage areas.

Other embodiments may comprise the middle layer 600 situated between inner and outer layers of different types of treatment clothing, such as: hats, caps, beanies, facemasks, neck sleeves/braces, scarves, long-sleeve tops, short-sleeve tops, vest/sleeveless tops, tank tops, arm sleeves, gloves, shorts, pants, leg sleeves, ankle sleeves/braces, socks, and full-body suits.

FIG. 7 generally illustrates an embodiment of a heating and cooling treatment clothing. As shown in FIG. 7, a control unit 705 engages with a holster 710 so as to maintain the control unit 705 in a static position when incorporated into a treatment clothing. In one embodiment, the control unit 705 and the holster 710 may each comprise material capable of generating a magnetic field such that the control unit 705 and the holster 710 may connect and disconnect with each other via magnetic attraction. The holster 710 with magnetic capabilities may be fixed to the treatment clothing—such as by stitching, additional use of fabric, or using adhesive—either between the inner and outer layers or on the outside of either the inner or outer layers. Or the holster 710 with magnetic capabilities may be removable from the treatment clothing such that a user may position the holster 710 with magnetic capabilities and the control unit 705 with magnetic capabilities in any desired position.

In an embodiment using magnets to secure the control unit 705 in place, magnets would be attached (via adhesive) to both the exterior of the control unit 705 and the inner layer of the treatment clothing in a shape corresponding to the exterior shape of the control unit 705. When the control unit 705 is brought close enough to the inner layer, the magnets on the control unit 705 and on the inner layer would connect, holding the control unit 705 in place. In another embodiment, ledgers could be attached to the inner layer (either by sewing or another adhesive) in the shape of the exterior of the control unit 705. These ledgers would have a magnet attached to them in locations that corresponded to where the magnets are attached to the control unit 705. When the control unit 705 is brought close enough to the inner layer, the magnets on the control unit 705 and on the ledgers would connect, holding the control unit 705 in place.

In other embodiments, the control unit 705 may be held in place and secured to the inner layer via a belt, additional fabric, or other adhesives.

FIGS. 8A-8C generally illustrate an embodiment of a heating and cooling treatment clothing. As shown in FIGS. 8A-8C, an embodiment of a control unit 800 may comprise a liquid reservoir 810, a liquid pump 820, tubing ports 830, a temperature module subassembly 840, a battery 850, and a power switch 860, all encased in a housing unit 870.

In one embodiment, the control unit 800 enables the heating and cooling of the liquid being circulated through the heating and cooling treatment clothing: the liquid reservoir 810 comprises the liquid to be circulated; the temperature module subassembly 840 heats and cools the liquid; and the liquid pump 820 pumps the liquid out to the paired or singular tubing connected to the one or more tubing ports 830, such that the liquid reaches the treatment pads or treatment tubes. The control unit 800 is powered by a power source 850, such as a battery, and controlled by a power switch 860.

In one embodiment, the temperature module subassembly 840 may comprise a Peltier effect Thermal Electric Cooler (or TEC). The Peltier Effect is a phenomenon in which semiconductors will absorb or release heat based on electrical current flowing through them. TEC coolers take advantage of this phenomenon and are composed of thin ceramic plates with semiconductors between its two faces. When an electrical current is provided to the TEC, it creates a temperature gradient between the two faces due to the Peltier Effect. The TEC pumps heat from one side to the other, so that one face of it becomes cold and the other becomes hot. The heat pumping direction can be reversed by changing the polarity of the electrical current, and thus making the previously cold side of the plate become the hot side and vice versa As a result, the TEC within the temperature module subassembly 840 may cool and heat the liquid prior to the liquid being pumped from the control unit 800 through the tubing and to the treatment pads or treatment tubes so as to provide hot or cold therapy to the individual.

The liquid pump 820 pumps liquid in a circuit through the temperature module subassembly 840, at which point the liquid becomes chilled or warmed. The liquid exits the temperature module subassembly 840, goes to the treatment pads, and circulates back to the liquid pump 820, after which it repeats this cycle.

FIG. 8D generally illustrates an embodiment of a heating and cooling treatment clothing. As shown in FIG. 8D, another embodiment of the control unit 800 may be a control unit 890 smaller in size, wherein the control unit 890 may or may not comprise a liquid reservoir 810, but does comprise a liquid pump 820, tubing ports 830, a temperature module subassembly 840, a battery 850, a circuit board 845, and a power switch 860.

In one embodiment, the control unit 800 may comprise a circuit board 845, as well as a microchip, within the temperature module subassembly 840, which enables the treatment clothing to be connected to a mobile application via Bluetooth®. The mobile application allows the user to select the exact temperature to apply to the exact area in need, as well as to monitor the temperature of both the user's body and the water circulating through the control unit 800 to make sure the desired temperature is applied consistently for the entire duration of the injury prevention or recovery session.

In another embodiment, Bluetooth® connectivity may enable the treatment clothing to monitor body temperature, inflammation, and injury; and control the temperature of the wearable technology via the circulation systems to increase or decrease body temperature.

In another embodiment air circulation systems or electric circulation systems can also be used to provide cooling or heating treatment.

In one embodiment, the control unit 800 may facilitate the use of artificial intelligence. For example, an algorithm may be programmed to read data in the form of body temperature parameters (provided via body-temperature sensors) and send a message to the user on the mobile application if temperature exceeds set parameters. Machine learning may be used to analyze data in the form of body temperature and alert the user when the temperature is outside a desired range (whether hot or cold). Similarly, an algorithm may be programmed to read data in the form of water temperature parameters or fluid temperature parameters (provided via water or fluid temperature sensors) and send a message to the user on the mobile application if temperature exceeds set parameters. Machine learning may be used to analyze data in the form of water temperature and alert the user when the temperature is outside a desired range (whether hot or cold) or allow the user to set the desired temperature for the duration of an injury prevention or recovery session. The above functionality can allow the user to adjust the temperature of the water being circulated to address a potential area in need. In addition, a user could choose in the settings of a paired mobile application to allow the artificial intelligence to adjust the water temperature on its own to address a potential area in need if that area of the body was at a problematic temperature based on the data provided to the machine learning algorithm.

FIG. 9 generally illustrates an embodiment of a heating and cooling treatment clothing. More specifically, FIG. 9 discloses an embodiment of the functionality of a control unit that allows for both heating and cooling of a fluid. In one embodiment, the control unit comprises a power switch for completing the circuit between the battery and the other powered components of the control unit. When turned on, the pump, TEC, and exhaust fan all turn on and start operating. The TEC may create a temperature gradient, whereupon its operational face becomes cold, and the exhaust face becomes hot as heat is pumped between the two sides. An aluminum heat exchanger may be pressed against the operational face of the TEC, which may cause the heat exchanger to become chilled as the cold generated by the TEC conducts into it. The pump may move liquid in a circuit through the heat exchanger, at which point the liquid becomes chilled by the cold heat exchanger through conduction. The liquid may exit the heat exchanger and into the liquid-circulating middle layer before going back to the pump and starting the cycle over. (If an embodiment comprises a liquid reservoir, the pump may pull liquid from the reservoir, pushing liquid in a circuit through the heat exchanger, at which point the liquid becomes chilled by the cold heat exchanger through conduction. The liquid exits the heat exchanger and goes through tubing ports to exit the control unit and go to the liquid circulating garment before returning to the reservoir and starting the cycle over.) As liquid travels through the liquid-circulating middle layer, it may make contact with the user to provide the therapeutic cooling through conduction. An aluminum heat sink is mated on the exhaust face of the TEC to conduct away heat from the TEC, which enables higher efficiency, so the operational face achieves colder temperatures. The cooler the exhaust face is kept, the colder the operational face will drop. An exhaust fan blows air through the heat sink and out of the system, further increasing efficiency by aiding in the exhaustion of heat from the TEC's exhaust face.

Other embodiments may further comprise one or more of the following: a lower profile button; membrane switch for power; a custom circuit board, which will receive power from the battery and provide it to the powered components using logic and software in the circuit board, possibly controlled by a mobile application; and capability to turn on different components at different times, for example running the pump first and checking flow rates before turning on the TEC cooler.

FIG. 10 generally illustrates an embodiment of a heating and cooling treatment clothing. As shown in FIG. 10, an embodiment may comprise the capability for the circuit board to reverse the polarity of the power to the TEC, which will make the operational face warm, and the exhaust face cold. This, following the same steps as above, may result in the patient receiving therapeutic heat treatment through conduction via the liquid circulating garment. The circuit board may control whether the system provides heating or cooling to the user. The circuit board may be able to measure and adjust performance of the system by controlling, monitoring, or adjusting: fluid temperature within the system; power to the pump, flow rate; and power to the TEC, how cold/hot it becomes; power to the fan, fan speed, or turn off the fan when not needed in order to have a quieter system.

It will be evident to one skilled in the art that embodiments of the control unit may deviate from the above disclosure while still comprising the ability to heat and cool fluid that is circulating through it.

As used in the specification and the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Ranges may be expressed herein as from “about” one particular value, and/or to “about” another particular value. When such a range is expressed, another embodiment includes from the one particular value and/or to the other particular value. Similarly, when values are expressed as approximations, by use of the antecedent “about,” it will be understood that the particular value forms another embodiment. It will be further understood that the endpoints of each of the ranges are significant both in relation to the other endpoint, and independently of the other endpoint.

Throughout the description and claims of this specification, the word “comprise” and variations of the word, such as “comprising” and “comprises,” means “including but not limited to,” and is not intended to exclude, for example, other components, integers or steps. “Exemplary” means “an example of” and is not intended to convey an indication of a preferred or ideal embodiment. “Such as” is not used in a restrictive sense, but for explanatory purposes.

Unless otherwise expressly stated, it is in no way intended that any method set forth herein be construed as requiring that its steps be performed in a specific order. Accordingly, where a method claim does not actually recite an order to be followed by its steps or it is not otherwise specifically stated in the claims or descriptions that the steps are to be limited to a specific order; it is in no way intended that an order be inferred, in any respect. This holds for any possible non-express basis for interpretation, including matters of logic with respect to arrangement of steps or operational flow; plain meaning derived from grammatical organization or punctuation; the number or type of embodiments described in the specification.

Claims

1. A therapeutic garment comprising: an inner layer comprising a first fabric;a middle layer, wherein the middle layer comprises a control unit; a treatment apparatus; and a dual tubing comprising of two tubes, wherein the dual tubing further comprises a first end and a second end, wherein the first ends connects to the control unit and the second end connects to the treatment apparatus; andan outer layer comprising a second fabric;wherein the inner layer and the outer layer are joined together along a top perimeter of the inner layer and a perimeter of the outer layer;wherein the middle layer is between the inner layer and the outer layer.

2. The therapeutic garment of claim 1, comprising a shape of one of the following: a hat; a stocking cap; a face mask; a neck sleeve; a neck brace; a scarf; a glove; a shirt; a tank top; a vest; an arm sleeve; a leg sleeve; an ankle sleeve; an ankle brace; pants; shorts; a sock; or a full-body suit.

3. The therapeutic garment of claim 2, wherein the joining together of the inner layer and the outer layer along the top perimeter of the inner layer and the perimeter of the outer layer comprises one or more of the following: joining together by a stitching; or joining together by an adhesive.

4. The therapeutic garment of claim 2, further comprising the treatment apparatus joined to one or both of the inner layer and the outer layer, wherein the joining of the treatment apparatus to one or both of the inner layer and the outer layer comprises one or more of the following: joining together by a stitching; or joining together by an adhesive.

5. The therapeutic garment of claim 2, wherein the control unit comprises: a power source;a pump;a temperature module subassembly; andtwo tubing ports.

6. The therapeutic garment of claim 2, wherein the control unit further comprises a liquid reservoir.

7. The therapeutic garment of claim 2, wherein: the treatment apparatus comprises a treatment pad;wherein the treatment pad comprises one or more conduits and two or more openings on a perimeter of the treatment pad;wherein the two or more openings connect to the one or more conduits; andwherein the two or more openings each comprise a tube connector, wherein the tube connector connects to the second end of the dual tubing.

8. The therapeutic garment of claim 2, wherein the treatment apparatus comprises a series of treatment tubes.

9. The therapeutic garment of claim 2, wherein the control unit comprises a magnet positioned in one of the following positions: between the inner and outer layers; on an outside of the inner layer; or on an outside of the outer layer.

10. The therapeutic garment of claim 2, comprising one, two, or each of the following: the control unit comprising a circuit board; the treatment apparatus comprising a first temperature sensor; and the control unit comprising a second temperature sensor.

11. A therapeutic garment comprising: an inner layer comprising a first fabric;a middle layer; andan outer layer comprising a second fabric;wherein the middle layer comprises a control unit; two treatment apparatuses; a first tube, a second tube, a first wye split, and a second wye split;wherein the first tube comprises a first end and a second end, wherein the first end of the first tube connects to one end of the first wye split and wherein the second end of the first tube connects to the control unit;wherein the second tube comprises a first end and a second end, wherein the first end of the second tube connects to one end of the second wye split and wherein the second end of the second tube connects to the control unit;wherein a second end of the first wye split connects to one of the two treatment apparatuses, and a third end of the first wye split connects to a second of the two treatment apparatuses;wherein a second end of the second wye split connects to one of the two treatment apparatuses, and a third end of the second wye split connects to a second of the two treatment apparatuses;wherein the inner layer and the outer layer are joined together along a top perimeter of the inner layer and a perimeter of the outer layer;wherein the middle layer is between the inner layer and the outer layer.

12. The therapeutic garment of claim 11, comprising a shape of one of the following: a hat; a stocking cap; a face mask; a neck sleeve; a neck brace; a scarf; a glove; a shirt; a tank top; a vest; an arm sleeve; a leg sleeve; an ankle sleeve; an ankle brace; pants; shorts; a sock; or a full-body suit.

13. The therapeutic garment of claim 12, wherein the joining together of the inner layer and the outer layer along the top perimeter of the inner layer and the perimeter of the outer layer comprises one or more of the following: joining together by a stitching; or joining together by an adhesive.

14. The therapeutic garment of claim 12, further comprising the two treatment apparatuses joined to one or both of the inner layer and the outer layer, wherein the joining of the two treatment apparatuses to one or both of the inner layer and the outer layer comprises one or more of the following: joining together by a stitching; or joining together by an adhesive.

15. The therapeutic garment of claim 12, wherein the control unit comprises: a power source;a pump;a temperature module subassembly; andtwo tubing ports.

16. The therapeutic garment of claim 12, wherein the control unit further comprises a liquid reservoir.

17. The therapeutic garment of claim 12, wherein: the two treatment apparatuses comprise two treatment pads;wherein the two treatment pads comprise one or more conduits and two or more openings on a perimeter of each of the two treatment pads;wherein the two or more openings connect to the one or more conduits; andwherein the two or more openings each comprise a tube connector, wherein the tube connector connects to the second end of the dual tubing.

18. The therapeutic garment of claim 12, comprising one or both of the following: a first temperature sensor on the two treatment apparatuses; and a second temperature sensor on the control unit.

19. The therapeutic garment of claim 12, wherein the control unit comprises a magnet positioned in one of the following positions: between the inner and outer layers; on an outside of the inner layer; or on an outside of the outer layer.

20. A therapeutic garment comprising: an inner layer comprising a first fabric;a middle layer; andan outer layer comprising a second fabric;wherein the middle layer comprises a control unit, a treatment pad, a first tube, and a second tube;wherein the treatment pad comprises a conduit, a first opening on a perimeter of the treatment pad, and a second opening on a perimeter of the treatment pad, wherein the first opening and the second opening each connect to the conduit, wherein the first opening comprises a first tube connector and the second opening comprises a second tube connector;wherein the first tube comprises a first end and a second end, wherein the first end of the first tube connects to the first tube connector and wherein the second end of the first tube connects to the control unit;wherein the second tube comprises a first end and a second end, wherein the first end of the second tube connects to the second tube connector and wherein the second end of the second tube connects to the control unit;wherein the inner layer and the outer layer are joined together along a top perimeter of the inner layer and a perimeter of the outer layer;wherein the middle layer is between the inner layer and the outer layer.