US20160206018A1

US20160206018A1 - Systems and methods for providing personal climate control

Info

Publication number: US20160206018A1
Application number: US15/003,286
Authority: US
Inventors: Scott Barbret
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2015-01-21
Filing date: 2016-01-21
Publication date: 2016-07-21

Abstract

Systems and methods are described for providing a personal climate-control system. In at least one embodiment, a personal climate-control system includes a fluid-thermal-conditioning system; a fluid reservoir; a pump; a flow-control manifold configured to provide a flow path for a heat-transfer fluid to heat-transfer-fluid-enabled articles; first and second tubing systems; an electrical connection configured to receive power from an external power supply; a battery configured to provide electrical power to the pump when the electrical connection is not receiving power from an external power supply; and a control module comprising a mode-selector switch and an intensity-selector control, where the mode-selector switch has an off position, a heating position, and a cooling position.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/106,080 filed Jan. 21, 2015, the contents of which is hereby incorporated by reference herein.

BACKGROUND

It is often the case for many people that changing environmental conditions are not suitable or comfortable without climate control. Micro-climate-control systems allow people to control the temperatures they experience when outside of air-conditioned spaces.

SUMMARY

The present disclosure describes systems and methods for providing personal climate control, also referred to at times as micro-climate control.
One embodiment takes the form of a system including a first flow path comprising a fluid reservoir and a fluid-enabled article, wherein the fluid reservoir is configured to transfer heat between material in the fluid reservoir and a heat-transfer fluid in the first flow path; a second flow path comprising a fluid-conditioning system, the fluid reservoir, and the fluid-enabled article, wherein the fluid-conditioning system is configured to i) receive power from an external power supply and ii) transfer heat between the fluid-conditioning system and the heat-transfer fluid; and a flow control manifold configured to selectively direct flow of the heat-transfer fluid between the first and the second flow paths.
In one embodiment, the fluid-conditioning system includes a fluid block having an inlet, an outlet, and a flow path; and a thermoelectric tile coupled to the fluid block and configured to selectively heat or cool the fluid block. In one such embodiment, the thermoelectric tile has a first side coupled to the fluid block and a second side coupled to a heat sink. In such embodiment, the system further includes a fan configured to move air over the heat sink.
In one embodiment, the heat-transfer fluid is water.
In one embodiment, the heat-transfer fluid is a non-inflammable liquid.
In one embodiment, the heat-transfer fluid is antifreeze.
In one embodiment, the fluid reservoir further includes a fill cap, and a drain tube having a proximate end connected to the fluid reservoir and having a distal end connected to a flow control valve.
In one embodiment, the system further includes a pump and a rechargeable battery, wherein when the first flow path is selected, the pump receives power from the rechargeable battery and circulates the heat-transfer fluid through the first flow path, and when the second flow path is selected, the pump i) receives power from the external power supply and ii) circulates the heat-transfer fluid through the second flow path, and the external power supply recharges the rechargeable battery.
In one embodiment, the system further includes an attachment device configured to attach the system to a vehicle. In one such embodiment, the attachment device is selected from the group consisting of magnets, straps, buckles, and Velcro.
In one embodiment, the flow control manifold further comprises quick-disconnect couplings.
In one embodiment, the first and second flow paths comprise a quick-disconnect coupling configured to disconnect the fluid-enabled article from the first and second flow paths.
In one embodiment, the first and second flow paths comprise a plurality of fluid-enabled articles.
In one embodiment, the fluid-enabled article is a vest.
In one embodiment, the fluid-enabled article is a hat.
In one embodiment, the system further includes a mode-selector switch, wherein: responsive to the mode-selector switch being selected to a cool position, the fluid-thermal-conditioning system cooling the heat-transfer fluid, and responsive to the mode-selector switch being selected to a heat position, the fluid-thermal-conditioning system heating the heat-transfer fluid.
In one embodiment, the system further includes an intensity-selector control, wherein: responsive to the intensity-selector control being selected to a higher intensity setting, the thermal-conditioning system increasing the rate of heat transfer to the heat-transfer fluid
One embodiment takes the form of a method including: providing a first flow path comprising a fluid reservoir and a fluid-enabled article, wherein the fluid reservoir is configured to transfer heat between material in the fluid reservoir and a heat-transfer fluid in the first flow path; providing a second flow path comprising a fluid-conditioning system, the fluid reservoir, and the fluid-enabled article, wherein the fluid-conditioning system is configured to i) receive power from an external power supply and ii) transfer heat between the fluid-conditioning system and the heat-transfer fluid; and providing a flow control manifold configured to selectively direct flow of the heat-transfer fluid between the first and the second flow paths.
One embodiment takes the form of a system including: a fluid-thermal-conditioning system; a fluid reservoir; a pump configured to pump a heat-transfer fluid; a flow-control manifold configured to provide a flow path for the heat-transfer fluid to a plurality of heat-transfer-fluid-enabled articles; a first tubing system mechanically interconnected to the fluid-thermal-conditioning system, the fluid reservoir, the pump, and the flow-control manifold; a second tubing system comprising a distal end and a first flow-control valve at the distal end, the second tubing system comprising a connection to the fluid reservoir; an electrical connection configured to receive power from an external power supply and convey the received power to the fluid-thermal-conditioning system and the pump; a battery configured to provide electrical power to the pump when the electrical connection is not receiving power from an external power supply; and a control module comprising a mode-selector switch and an intensity-selector control, wherein the mode-selector switch comprises an off position, a heating position, and a cooling position.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 depicts an example system, in accordance with an embodiment.

FIG. 2 depicts multiple views of a fluid-block portion of a fluid-thermal-conditioning system, in accordance with an embodiment.

FIG. 3 depicts a fluid-conditioning system, in accordance with an embodiment.

FIG. 5 depicts a fluid-thermal-conditioning system coupled to a flow-control manifold, in accordance with an embodiment.

FIG. 6 depicts portions of a personal climate control system, in accordance with an embodiment

FIG. 7 depicts an example personal climate-control system, in accordance with an embodiment.

FIG. 8A depicts an example personal climate-control system mounted on a vehicle, in accordance with an embodiment.

FIG. 8B depicts an example personal climate-control system mounted on a vehicle, in accordance with an embodiment.

FIG. 9 depicts an example cooling vest, in accordance with an embodiment.

FIG. 10 depicts an example computer processing system, in accordance with an embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In at least one embodiment, the personal climate control system includes a fluid thermal-conditioning system, a fluid reservoir, a pump, a flow-control manifold, a first and second tubing systems, an electrical connection for receiving power from an external power supply, a battery, and a control module.
FIG. 1 depicts a system, in accordance with an embodiment. In particular, FIG. 1 depicts the system 100. The system 100 includes an insulated fluid reservoir 102, a fluid-enabled article 104, a fluid conditioning system 106, a control module/user interface or control manifold 108, flexible insulated tubing 110, break-away couplings 110, and tubing 112-114 which convey a heat-transfer fluid the various components of the system.
The fluid reservoir 102 may be an insulated fluid reservoir and include an inline pump may be co-located, however, this is shown by example, as one with skill in the relevant art could position the pump in an alternate configuration and separate from the insulated fluid reservoir. The fluid reservoir 102 comprises a heat sink to store either cool or cold materials. Exemplary cool materials include ice, cold water, dry ice, and the like. An exemplary hot material includes hot water. The fluid inside the insulated fluid reservoir is separated from the heat transfer fluid, however, the fluid is able to conduct heat between the fluid in the reservoir and the heat transfer fluid. The insulated fluid reservoir is insulated from surrounding atmosphere to minimize heat loss to the surroundings.
The fluid-enabled article 104 may be any kind of fluid enabled article discussed herein, such as a vest, a jacket, pants, socks, a hat, a glove, a blanket, or the like.
The fluid conditioning system 106 receives power from an external power supply, and acts to heat or cool the heat transfer fluid. The heat transfer fluid may be water, anti-freeze, or any other suitable fluid capable of carrying heat through the personal climate system.
The control manifold 108 directs flow of heat transfer fluid to the fluid enabled article 104. The connections between the flow control manifold are break-away couplings, designed to release under tension. The flow control manifold may comprise connections for one or many different fluid conveyance enabled articles. Each connection to a fluid conveyance enabled article comprises an inlet and an outlet to direct flow of the heat transfer fluid to and receive flow of heat transfer fluid from each of the fluid conveyance enabled articles.
The heat transfer fluid circulates through the system 100. An exemplary flow path is from the inline pump, clockwise to the fluid conditioning system, down to the control module. In the control module, via the flow control manifold, the heat transfer fluid is directed to the connected fluid conveyance enabled articles and returns to the flow control manifold and proceeds clockwise to return to the pump.
In some embodiments, the heat transfer fluid circulates between one of two flow paths. A first flow path is from the fluid reservoir 102, through tubing 112, through the control manifold 108, through tubing 114, through the fluid-enabled article 104, through the tubing 116, through the control manifold 108, and return to the fluid reservoir 102 through the tubing 118. A second flow path is from the fluid reservoir 102, through tubing 120, through the fluid-conditioning system 106, through the tubing 122, through the control manifold 108, through tubing 114, through the fluid-enabled article 104, through the tubing 116, through the control manifold 108, and return to the fluid reservoir 102 through the tubing 118. The flow control manifold 108 may be used to configure the system between one of the two flow paths
In some embodiments, the system may also include an inline pump and a battery. In the system 100, the battery is connected to the control manifold via electrical connections. The battery can be a rechargeable battery, may be made of NI-MH, standard single use alkaline batteries (AA, AAA, C, D, 9 v, etc.), lithium, graphene, or any other battery suitable as a power supply, as know by those with skill in the relevant art. The battery is connected to control module, and serves as a power supply to the pump and the control module. In some embodiments, the battery supplies power to the pump when an external power supply is not connected, and does not supply power to the pump when an external power supply is connected.
FIG. 2 depicts multiple views of a fluid-block portion of a fluid-thermal-conditioning system, in accordance with an embodiment. In particular, FIG. 2 depicts the view 200 and the view 220. The view 200 includes the fluid block 202, an inlet 204, and an outlet 206. The view 220 depicts the fluid block 202, the inlet 204, the outlet 206, and a flow path 208. The inlet nozzle 204 and the outlet nozzle 206 are configured with barbed surfaces to retain the connected tubing, however, this is by way of example and not limitation.
In accordance with an embodiment, a cover is attached on top of the fluid bock. The cover serves as a heat transfer surface, and serves as a connection point for a heating or cooling element.
The view 220 depicts the base with the nozzles and cover removed. The base comprises a series of grooves which serve as the flow path 208. The heat transfer fluid enters in through one of the nozzle holes 204, traverses through the grooves (flow path 208), and exits through the other nozzle hole 206.
In some embodiments, the heating or cooling element is a thermo-electric tile. The thermo-electric tile, also known as a Peltier tile, is capable of producing heat on one side and cold on the opposite side when a voltage is applied across the tile. In an exemplary personal climate system, a thermo-electric tile is coupled to the cover of the fluid block, with thermally conductive adhesive, or by other methods as known by those with skill in the art. A heat sink can be attached, via similar methods, to the opposite surface of the thermo-electric tile. The heat sink removes heat from the thermo-electric tile.
FIG. 3 depicts a fluid-conditioning system, in accordance with an embodiment. In particular, FIG. 3 depicts the fluid-conditioning system 300. The fluid-conditioning system 300 includes the fluid block 202, the inlet nozzle 204, the outlet nozzle 206, a fan 302, and a heat sink 304. The fan 302 receives electrical power when connected to an external power supply, and is configured to blow air across the heat sink 304. The thermal-conditioning system may comprise no fans, a single fan, or a plurality of fans. The fans configured to assist in heat transfer.
The thermal-conditioning system may also incorporate vents to provide improved heat transfer. The vents may be positioned on the top, the front, and the sides of a thermal-conditioning system enclosure.
FIG. 4 depicts a view of a thermal-conditioning system coupled to a flow control manifold, in accordance with an embodiment. In particular, FIG. 4 depicts the view 400. The view 400 includes the thermal-conditioning system 300, connections to the flow control manifold 402, and interconnecting tubing 404. In the view 400 depicted in FIG. 4, heat transfer fluid enters in the water block portion of the thermal-conditioning system 300. In a cooling mode when the personal climate control system is receiving external power, the thermo-electric tile receives a voltage that corresponds to the side that is attached to the water block getting cold and the side that is attached to the heat sink to getting hot. The heat transfer fluid traveling through the water block loses thermal energy to thermo-electric tile and becomes colder. The opposite side (the side connected to the heat sink) of the thermo-electric tile becomes hot, transfers heat to the heat sink, and the fan blows air across the heat sink to remove excess heat from the TEC tile system. The colder fluid transfer liquid exits the water block to the flow control manifold and the cold water circulates through the interconnected tubing 404 to the connected fluid conveyance, articles, back to the flow control manifold to complete the flow path.
The heat sink can be any one chosen by one with skill in the relevant art, but may include a heat sink with straight pins, or may be a pin fin style.
The example system shown in FIG. 4 is also able to heat the heat transfer fluid. The same process is used, except that the voltage potential across the TEC tile is reversed, causing the side connected to the water block to getting hot, and the side connected to the heat sink to getting cold. The hot side of the water block conveys heat energy to the thermal transfer fluid, raising its temperature, before the heat transfer fluid circulates through the fluid conveyance articles. The fluid conditioning system may also comprise an electric heating element to be used to heat the heat transfer fluid in conjunction with the TEC tile or alone.
In accordance with an embodiment, heat transfer fluid is circulated through the flow paths via a pump. The pump comprises electrical connections, an inlet nozzle, an outlet nozzle, and a power supply cord. The power supply cord receives power from either the external power supply or the internal battery. When the personal climate system is connected to an external power supply, such as a motorcycle, snow-mobile, fork-lift, automobile, and the like, the battery does not supply power to the pump. The housing may be water and dust ingress protected.
FIG. 5 depicts an exemplary personal climate control system, in accordance with an embodiment. In particular, FIG. 5 depicts the personal climate control system 500. The personal climate control system 500 includes an insulated fluid reservoir 502, a valve 504, a fill cap 506, an internal flow pipe 508, a connection point 510, an intensity control 512, a mode selector switch 514, interconnected tubing 516, and fluid conveyance articles 518.
The insulated fluid reservoir 502 comprises the fill cap 506, internal flow pipes 508, and a connection point 510. The insulated fluid reservoir 502 is filled with either hot or cold fluid, or similar materials through the fill cap 506. The heat transfer fluid is able to flow through the insulated fluid reservoir 502 to conduct heat transfer with the fluid inside the insulated fluid reservoir 502.
The fluid reservoir 502 may be an aluminum or stainless-steel hard sided bottle. The fluid reservoir may have a cap, the cap comprising a plurality of barbed nipples. A first barbed nipple for outlet to the pump and a second barbed nipple from the return inlet from heat-transfer fluid circulated through the fluid-enabled articles. In some embodiments, the barbs on the nipples will be recessed barbs, configured to reduce risk of pinching tubes and restricting flow.
The system 500 also comprises the intensity control 512 and the mode selector switch 514. The intensity control controls the amount of heat to be transferred to the fluid conveyance articles. The mode selector switch comprises an off position, a cool position, and a heat position.
In circumstances that the personal climate system is operating on external power, and the mode control selector switch 514 is set to cool, the heat transfer fluid circulates through the fluid block to cool the heat transfer fluid, circulates through connection point 510, and flows through the insulated fluid reservoir 502 at point 510. The heat transfer fluid conducts relatively small amount of heat to the fluid in the insulated fluid reservoir, and may slightly cool the water inside the reservoir 502 before flowing through connection point 510 to the fluid conveyance articles 518.
The system may include a control panel, in accordance with an embodiment. The example control panel comprises at least an intensity selector and a mode control selector. The selectors are depicted as circular knobs and are situated on a housing that encloses the thermal conditioning module and flow control manifold.
In embodiments with the intensity selector control, the intensity selector control is configured to control the intensity of the heating or cooling supplied to the fluid conveyance articles. The intensity control switch controls the level of heat or cooling power provided by the fluid-conditioning system. It may control the magnitude of the voltage across the TEC tile, or may control the number of the TEC tiles that receive voltage. The intensity control switch may also be configured to control the volumetric flow rate through the pump. Raising the setting on the intensity control switch increases the flow rate of the heat transfer fluid through the pump, and thus the flow rate of the heat transfer fluid through the fluid enabled articles.
The control panel may also comprise other control elements. The control panel can be configured to control power to the pump and the thermal conditioning system portions of the personal climate system. In some such embodiments, the control panel determines electrical power available and supplies electricity to the various components of the personal climate control system. When the control panel detects an external power supply, the control panel directs electrical power to the fluid conditioning device and the pump. When the external power supply is not detected, such as by a change in voltage, or lack of voltage, or in other methods known by those in the art, the control panel directs electrical power to the pump and does not supply power to the thermal conditioning system.
In various embodiments, the control panel also is a weather (water and dust) proof enclosure. The control panel may also provide indicating lights, auxiliary power supplies (such as a USB port for a phone, may be wirelessly or wired communicatively to a separate user interface as known by those with skill in the art. In embodiments that comprise a separate user interface, the separate user interface may be a wired control extender, the control extender to allow a user to place the controls in a more convenient location, or it may be a wireless connected user interface, such as through a Bluetooth connection to a personal smart phone, a network server, or the like. The wireless interface may be able to receive commands to control the personal climate system through voice control, through the vehicle's integrated controls, or the like.
In accordance with an embodiment, some of the interconnecting valves disconnect under tension force. Example tensile forces that the connections disconnected should be between 10 to 15 lbs of pressure. Example interconnections include the connection points between the flow control manifold and the tubing connected to the fluid conveyance articles. In various embodiments, the valves that disconnect under tension are the connection points between the cooling/heating unit, the control panel, the reservoir, and the fluid enabled articles.
FIG. 6 depicts portions of a personal climate control system, in accordance with an embodiment. In particular, FIG. 6 depicts the system 600. The system 600 includes a carrying case for the personal climate control system. The system 600 includes a plurality of buckles and adjustable straps 602, loops 604, a pump inlet 606, a pump outlet 608, a pump power switch 610, and a drinking water tube 612. The insulated fluid reservoir is located inside the system 600. The carrying bag comprises the adjustable straps 602 and loops 604 to facilitate attaching the personal climate control system to a vehicle, such as a motor cycle or snowmobile, or to fasten to a user's back, similar to a backpack. The exemplary personal climate control device comprises a drinking water tube 612. The drinking water tube 612 is connected at one end to the insulated fluid reservoir and a flow control valve at the opposite end. The drinking water tube 612 serves as a flow path to drain water from the insulated fluid reservoir. The method of draining may be via hydrating a user drinking from the drinking water tube 612.
FIG. 7 depicts an exemplary personal climate control system, in accordance with an embodiment. The personal climate control system depicted in FIG. 12 comprises a raised surface 702 for ventilation points when wearing as a backpack, magnets 704 for securing to a vehicle, backpack straps 706 for wearing on a user's back, detachable straps 708 for backpack straps, a zipper 710 for a means of securing the insulated container to the tank bag, the drinking water tube 712, and the pump power switch 714. The personal climate system is configurable, able to be attached to a vehicle or worn by a user.
In accordance with an embodiment, the personal climate control system includes auxiliary power connectors to connect an auxiliary reserve battery. The auxiliary reserve battery is used to power at least the pump of the exemplary personal climate control system.
In accordance with an embodiment, the exemplary personal climate control system comprises detachable back-pack straps.
FIG. 8A depicts an exemplary personal climate control system mounted on a motorcycle, in accordance with an embodiment. In particular, FIG. 8 depicts the view 800. The view 800 includes a climate system 802 and a vehicle 804. The climate system 802 is mounted to the vehicle 804 via one of many methods available, to include straps and magnets.
FIG. 8B depicts an example personal climate-control system mounted on a vehicle, in accordance with an embodiment. In particular, FIG. 8B depicts the view 810 The view 810 includes the same components as in view 800, to include the climate system 802 and the vehicle 804. The view 810 also includes additional details, to include a clear pocket for map or navigation equipment 812, an insulated gab 814, a power supply 816, an intensity control dial 818, a hot/cold switch 820, a vent port 822, tubing for a first user connection 824, tubing for a second user connection 826, and a control panel 828.
FIG. 9 depicts an exemplary cooling vest, in accordance with an embodiment. In particular, FIG. 9 depicts the view 900. The view 900 includes a cooling vest 902 as an example of a fluid conveyance article. The fluid conveyance articles receive conditioned heat transfer fluid, circulate the conditioned fluid through the fluid conveyance article, and back to the fluid conditioning system. When operating in a heating mode, the fluid conditioning system supplies warm water to the articles. When operating in a cooling mode, the fluid conditioning system supplies cool water to the articles. Many other articles could be chosen by one with skill in the relevant art. Example articles include gloves, vests, pants, boots, heating/cooling blankets, and the like.
The above elements may be combined by those with skill in the relevant art to provide methods of a micro-climate system. In an exemplary method, a heat transfer fluid is circulated through a fluid conditioning system. When the fluid conditioning system is connected to an external power supply, the heat transfer fluid is thermally conditioned, either heated or cooled based on the position of a mode control selector switch. The rate of heating or cooling is determined based on a position of a thermostat, or intensity selection control.
The heat transfer fluid is also circulated through an insulated fluid reservoir. The insulated fluid reservoir is insulated from the outside surroundings and is capable of transferring heat to and from the heat transfer fluid being circulated through the insulated fluid reservoir. The insulated fluid reservoir is filled with either a hot fluid (e.g., hot water) or a cold fluid (e.g., cold water, ice, dry ice) The fluid in the fluid reservoir serves as an additional source of heat or cooling, and is able to heat or cool the heat transfer fluid or is able to be heated or cooled by the heat transfer fluid.
The heat transfer fluid is also circulated through a fluid enabled article. Exemplary fluid enabled articles include vests, hats, pants, blankets, gloves, boots, and the like. The fluid enabled articles comprise a network of tubing that permits heat transfer between the heat transfer fluid and a user of the fluid enabled article.
The fluid conditioning system, the insulated fluid reservoir, and the fluid enabled articles are interconnected via a first tubing system. The first tubing system comprises disconnects that detach under sufficient tensile force. A sufficient tensile force is approximately 10-15 lbs.
In one embodiment, the method for providing cooling comprises circulating a heat transfer fluid, via a pump powered by a battery, through a first flow path. The first flow path comprises a fluid reservoir and a fluid enabled article. In such a method, the heat transfer fluid transfers heat to a material within the fluid reservoir and from a fluid enabled article to provide cooling.
The method for providing cooling further comprises circulating a heat transfer fluid, via a pump, through a second flow path. The second flow path comprises a fluid conditioning system, a fluid reservoir, and a fluid enabled article. In such a method, the fluid conditioning system receives power from an external power supply, such as from a motorcycle or vehicle. The thermal conditioning system cools the heat transfer fluid, which flows to the fluid enabled articles. The heat transfer fluid returns to the fluid conditioning system.
This method for providing cooling permits a user to decouple the fluid conditioning system from the fluid reservoir while receiving cooling via flow through the first flow path. The fluid reservoir is portable and able to be carried on a user. A user may then restore cooling via the thermal conditioning system by recounting the fluid conditioning system to form the second flow path.
A complimentary method to the one disclosed above for providing cooling may be used to provide heating. The opposite method involves receiving heat from the fluid reservoir and transferring heat to the fluid enabled article when the articles first flow path is used and receiving heat from the thermal conditioning system and transferring heat to the fluid enabled article when the articles are connected to the second connection point.
FIG. 10 depicts a schematic functional block diagram of an exemplary computer processing system in accordance with some embodiments. A computer processing system may be used to control portions of the personal climate control system. The computer processing used may be a generic computer processing system capable of carrying out the disclosures of this invention. Example computer processing systems include smart phones, phones, laptops, computers, car navigation systems, and the like. The computer processing systems may be connected to remote and local networks or other remote computer processing systems. The functions described as being carried out in one computer processing system may also be carried out in a remotely connected computer processing system, as known by those with skill in the relevant art. It may be appreciated that the methods of this disclosure are completed on multiple computer processing systems which are communicatively coupled together.
In some embodiments, the systems and methods described herein may be implemented in a computer processing system, such as the computer processing system 1002 illustrated in FIG. 10. As shown in FIG. 10, the computer processing system 1002 may include a processor 1018, a network interface 1020, a user interface 1026, a display 1028, a non-removable memory 1030, a removable memory 1032, a power source 1034, and other peripherals 1038. It will be appreciated that the server 1002 may include any sub-combination of the foregoing elements while remaining consistent with an embodiment. The server may be in communication with the internet and/or with proprietary networks.
The computer processing system 1002 can incorporate the embodiments of this disclosure. For example, the peripherals 1038 may include the internal sensor, the external sensor, and any optional auxiliary sensors. The display 1028 may include the virtual reality display, and any optional audio speakers. The network interface may include the communication interface.
The processor 1018 may be a general purpose processor, a special purpose processor, a conventional processor, a digital signal processor (DSP), a plurality of microprocessors, one or more microprocessors in association with a DSP core, a controller, a microcontroller, Application Specific Integrated Circuits (ASICs), Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGAs) circuits, any other type of integrated circuit (IC), a state machine, and the like. The processor 1018 may perform signal coding, data processing, power control, input/output processing, and/or any other functionality that enables the server 1002 to operate in a wired or wireless environment. The processor 1018 may be coupled to the network interface 1020. While FIG. 10 depicts the processor 1018 and the network interface 1020 as separate components, it will be appreciated that the processor 1018 and the network interface 1020 may be integrated together in an electronic package or chip.
The processor 1018 of the server 1002 may be coupled to, and may receive user input data from, the user interface 1026, and/or the display 1028 (e.g., a liquid crystal display (LCD) display unit or organic light-emitting diode (OLED) display unit). The processor 1018 may also output user data to the display/touchpad 1028. In addition, the processor 1018 may access information from, and store data in, any type of suitable memory, such as the non-removable memory 1030 and/or the removable memory 1032. The non-removable memory 1030 may include random-access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), a hard disk, or any other type of memory storage device. In other embodiments, the processor 1018 may access information from, and store data in, memory that is not physically located at the server 1002, such as on a separate server (not shown).
The processor 1018 may receive power from the power source 1034, and may be configured to distribute and/or control the power to the other components in the server 1002. The power source 1034 may be any suitable device for powering the server 1002, such as a power supply connectable to a power outlet.
Although features and elements are described above in particular combinations, one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that each feature or element can be used alone or in any combination with the other features and elements. In addition, the methods described herein may be implemented in a computer program, software, or firmware incorporated in a computer-readable medium for execution by a computer or processor. Examples of computer-readable storage media include, but are not limited to, a read only memory (ROM), a random access memory (RAM), a register, cache memory, semiconductor memory devices, magnetic media such as internal hard disks and removable disks, magneto-optical media, and optical media such as CD-ROM disks, and digital versatile disks (DVDs). A processor in association with software may be used to implement a radio frequency transceiver for use in a WTRU, UE, terminal, base station, RNC, or any host computer.
The present disclosure describes systems and methods for providing personal climate control, also referred to at times as micro-climate control.
In at least one embodiment, a personal climate-control system includes a fluid thermal-conditioning system, a fluid reservoir, a pump, a flow-control manifold, first and second tubing systems, an electrical connection for receiving power from an external power supply, a battery, and a control module.
In at least one embodiment, the pump pumps a heat-transfer fluid through the first set of tubing.
In at least one embodiment, the first tubing system mechanically interconnects the fluid thermal-conditioning system, the fluid reservoir, the pump, and the flow control manifold.
In at least one embodiment, the second tubing system mechanically interconnects the fluid reservoir to a flow control valve at the distal end of the second tubing system.
In at least one embodiment, the electrical connection for receiving power from an external power provides an electrical flow path from the electrical connection to the fluid thermal-conditioning system and the pump.
In at least one embodiment, the battery provides electrical power to the pump.
In at least one embodiment, the control module includes a mode selector control switch and an intensity selector control switch.
At least one embodiment takes the form of a personal climate-control system that includes: a fluid-thermal-conditioning system; a fluid reservoir; a pump configured to pump a heat-transfer fluid; a flow-control manifold configured to provide a flow path for the heat-transfer fluid to a plurality of heat-transfer-fluid-enabled articles; a first tubing system mechanically interconnected to the fluid-thermal-conditioning system, the fluid reservoir, the pump, and the flow-control manifold; a second tubing system that includes a distal end and a first flow-control valve at the distal end, the second tubing system that includes a connection to the fluid reservoir; an electrical connection configured to receive power from an external power supply and convey the received power to the fluid-thermal-conditioning system and the pump; a battery configured to provide electrical power to the pump when the electrical connection is not receiving power from an external power supply; and a control module that includes a mode-selector switch and an intensity-selector control, where the mode-selector switch comprises an off position, a heating position, and a cooling position.
In at least one embodiment, the fluid-thermal-conditioning system includes: a water block that includes an inlet, a flow path through the water block, and an outlet; a thermoelectric tile having a first side that is coupled to the water block; and a heat sink coupled to the second side of the thermoelectric tile. In at least one such embodiment, the fluid-thermal-conditioning system includes a fan.
In at least one embodiment, the heat-transfer fluid is water.
In at least one embodiment, the heat-transfer fluid is anti-freeze.
In at least one embodiment, the heat-transfer fluid is a non-flammable liquid.
In at least one embodiment, the fluid reservoir is insulated. In at least one such embodiment, the fluid reservoir further includes a fill cap, a drain tubing, and a second flow-control valve, and the insulated fluid reservoir is a source of potable water for hydration.
In at least one embodiment, the flow-control manifold provides a supply of thermally conditioned heat-transfer fluid to a fluid-enabled article and further provides a return of heat-transfer fluid from the fluid-enabled article. In at least one such embodiment, the flow-control manifold provides a supply of thermally conditioned heat-transfer fluid to a plurality of fluid-enabled articles and further provides a return of heat-transfer fluid from the plurality of fluid-enabled articles.
In at least one embodiment, the first tubing system includes quick-release interconnects that separate the tubing under tensile strength that exceeds a pre-determined value.
In at least one embodiment, the second tubing system provides a flow path for potable fluid from the fluid reservoir to the first flow-control valve, the potable water to be used for hydration.
In at least one embodiment, the battery comprises a rechargeable battery. In at least one such embodiment, the battery receives an electrical charge when the personal climate-control system is connected to an external power supply.
In at least one embodiment, the battery comprises a replaceable battery.
In at least one embodiment, the personal climate-control system also includes at least one attachment devices selected from the group consisting of magnets, straps, buckles, and velcro.
At least one embodiment takes the form on a method for providing personal climate control, the method including: circulating a heat-transfer fluid through a thermal-conditioning system; circulating the heat-transfer fluid through an insulated fluid reservoir; and circulating the heat-transfer fluid through a fluid-enabled article, wherein: the thermal-conditioning system heats the heat-transfer fluid in response to the thermal-conditioning system receiving external power and a mode-selector switch being in a heating-mode position, the thermal-conditioning system cools the heat-transfer fluid in response to the thermal-conditioning system receiving external power and the mode-selector switch being in a cooling-mode position, the heat-transfer fluid transfers heat with a fluid contained in the fluid reservoir, the heat-transfer fluid receives heat to the fluid reservoir when a hot fluid is contained in the fluid reservoir, the heat-transfer fluid ejects heat from the fluid reservoir when a cold fluid is contained in the fluid reservoir, and the heat-transfer fluid is circulated by a pump powered by an internal battery when an external power source is not present.
In at least one embodiment, the thermal-conditioning system, the fluid reservoir, and the fluid-enabled articles are mechanically interconnected by a first tubing set that includes quick-disconnect couplings.
In at least one embodiment, the thermal-conditioning system includes a thermoelectric tile having a first side coupled to a water block and further having a second side having a heat sink. In at least one such embodiment, the thermal-conditioning system further includes a fan configured to move air over the heat sink; in at least one such embodiment, the fluid-thermal-conditioning system comprises a plurality of fans.
In at least one embodiment, the fluid-enabled article is mechanically interconnected to a flow-control manifold configured to provide flow to and receive flow from a plurality of fluid enabled articles.
In at least one embodiment, the fluid-enabled article is a vest.
In at least one embodiment, the fluid-enabled article is a hat.
In at least one embodiment, the fluid-enabled article is a blanket.
In at least one embodiment, the fluid-enabled article is a sock.
In at least one embodiment, the internal battery supplies power to the pump and to a control panel when the external power supply is not connected.
In at least one embodiment, the internal battery is a rechargeable battery.
In at least one embodiment, the internal battery recharges when an external power supply is connected.
In at least one embodiment, the internal battery is a replaceable battery.
At least one embodiment takes the form of a method for providing personal climate control, the method including: providing a first flow path, wherein the first flow path comprises a fluid reservoir and a fluid-enabled article, wherein the fluid reservoir is configured to transfer heat between material in the fluid reservoir and a heat transfer fluid; and providing a second flow path, wherein the second flow path comprises a fluid-conditioning system, the fluid reservoir, and the fluid-enabled article, wherein the fluid reservoir is configured to transfer heat between material in the fluid reservoir and the heat-transfer fluid, wherein the fluid-conditioning system is configured to receive power from an external power supply and is further configured to transfer heat between the fluid-conditioning system and the heat-transfer fluid.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A system comprising:

a first flow path comprising a fluid reservoir and a fluid-enabled article, wherein the fluid reservoir is configured to transfer heat between material in the fluid reservoir and a heat-transfer fluid in the first flow path;

a second flow path comprising a fluid-conditioning system, the fluid reservoir, and the fluid-enabled article, wherein the fluid-conditioning system is configured to i) receive power from an external power supply and ii) transfer heat between the fluid-conditioning system and the heat-transfer fluid; and

a flow control manifold configured to selectively direct flow of the heat-transfer fluid between the first and the second flow paths.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein the fluid-conditioning system comprises:

a fluid block having an inlet, an outlet, and a flow path; and

a thermoelectric tile coupled to the fluid block and configured to selectively heat or cool the fluid block.

3. The system of claim 2, wherein the thermoelectric tile has a first side coupled to the fluid block and a second side coupled to a heat sink.

4. The system of claim 3, further comprising a fan configured to move air over the heat sink.

5. The system of claim 1, wherein the heat-transfer fluid is water.

6. The system of claim 1, wherein the heat-transfer fluid is a non-inflammable liquid.

7. The system of claim 1, wherein the heat-transfer fluid is antifreeze.

8. The system of claim 1, wherein the fluid reservoir further comprises:

a fill cap,

a drain tube having a proximate end connected to the fluid reservoir and having a distal end connected to a flow control valve.

9. The system of claim 1, further comprising a pump and a rechargeable battery, wherein when the first flow path is selected, the pump receives power from the rechargeable battery and circulates the heat-transfer fluid through the first flow path, and

when the second flow path is selected, the pump i) receives power from the external power supply and ii) circulates the heat-transfer fluid through the second flow path, and the external power supply recharges the rechargeable battery.

10. The system of claim 1, further comprising an attachment device configured to attach the system to a vehicle.

11. The system of claim 9, wherein the attachment device is selected from the group consisting of magnets, straps, buckles, and Velcro.

12. The system of claim 1, wherein the flow control manifold further comprises quick-disconnect couplings.

13. The system of claim 1, wherein the first and second flow paths comprise a quick-disconnect coupling configured to disconnect the fluid-enabled article from the first and second flow paths.

14. The system of claim 1, wherein the first and second flow paths comprise a plurality of fluid-enabled articles.

15. The system of claim 1, wherein the fluid-enabled article is a vest.

16. The system of claim 1, wherein the fluid-enabled article is a hat.

17. The system of claim 1, further comprising a mode-selector switch, wherein:

responsive to the mode-selector switch being selected to a cool position, the fluid-thermal-conditioning system cooling the heat-transfer fluid, and

responsive to the mode-selector switch being selected to a heat position, the fluid-thermal-conditioning system heating the heat-transfer fluid.

18. The system of claim 1, further comprising an intensity-selector control, wherein:

responsive to the intensity-selector control being selected to a higher intensity setting, the thermal-conditioning system increasing the rate of heat transfer to the heat-transfer fluid.

19. A method comprising:

providing a first flow path comprising a fluid reservoir and a fluid-enabled article, wherein the fluid reservoir is configured to transfer heat between material in the fluid reservoir and a heat-transfer fluid in the first flow path;

providing a second flow path comprising a fluid-conditioning system, the fluid reservoir, and the fluid-enabled article, wherein the fluid-conditioning system is configured to i) receive power from an external power supply and ii) transfer heat between the fluid-conditioning system and the heat-transfer fluid; and

providing a flow control manifold configured to selectively direct flow of the heat-transfer fluid between the first and the second flow paths.

20. A personal climate-control system comprising:

a fluid-thermal-conditioning system;

a fluid reservoir;

a pump configured to pump a heat-transfer fluid;

a flow-control manifold configured to provide a flow path for the heat-transfer fluid to a plurality of heat-transfer-fluid-enabled articles;

a first tubing system mechanically interconnected to the fluid-thermal-conditioning system, the fluid reservoir, the pump, and the flow-control manifold;

a second tubing system comprising a distal end and a first flow-control valve at the distal end, the second tubing system comprising a connection to the fluid reservoir;

an electrical connection configured to receive power from an external power supply and convey the received power to the fluid-thermal-conditioning system and the pump;

a battery configured to provide electrical power to the pump when the electrical connection is not receiving power from an external power supply; and

a control module comprising a mode-selector switch and an intensity-selector control, wherein the mode-selector switch comprises an off position, a heating position, and a cooling position.