WO2012052999A1 - Article of clothing for heating or cooling body of wearer - Google Patents

Article of clothing for heating or cooling body of wearer Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2012052999A1
WO2012052999A1 PCT/IN2011/000438 IN2011000438W WO2012052999A1 WO 2012052999 A1 WO2012052999 A1 WO 2012052999A1 IN 2011000438 W IN2011000438 W IN 2011000438W WO 2012052999 A1 WO2012052999 A1 WO 2012052999A1
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WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
layer
heat sink
article
thermoelectric module
clothing
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/IN2011/000438
Other languages
French (fr)
Inventor
Kranthi Kiran Vistakula
Original Assignee
Kranthi Kiran Vistakula
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Kranthi Kiran Vistakula filed Critical Kranthi Kiran Vistakula
Publication of WO2012052999A1 publication Critical patent/WO2012052999A1/en

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Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A41—WEARING APPAREL
    • A41D—OUTERWEAR; PROTECTIVE GARMENTS; ACCESSORIES
    • A41D13/00—Professional, industrial or sporting protective garments, e.g. surgeons' gowns or garments protecting against blows or punches
    • A41D13/002—Professional, industrial or sporting protective garments, e.g. surgeons' gowns or garments protecting against blows or punches with controlled internal environment
    • A41D13/005—Professional, industrial or sporting protective garments, e.g. surgeons' gowns or garments protecting against blows or punches with controlled internal environment with controlled temperature
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B32—LAYERED PRODUCTS
    • B32B—LAYERED PRODUCTS, i.e. PRODUCTS BUILT-UP OF STRATA OF FLAT OR NON-FLAT, e.g. CELLULAR OR HONEYCOMB, FORM
    • B32B15/00—Layered products comprising a layer of metal
    • B32B15/02—Layer formed of wires, e.g. mesh
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B32—LAYERED PRODUCTS
    • B32B—LAYERED PRODUCTS, i.e. PRODUCTS BUILT-UP OF STRATA OF FLAT OR NON-FLAT, e.g. CELLULAR OR HONEYCOMB, FORM
    • B32B15/00—Layered products comprising a layer of metal
    • B32B15/20—Layered products comprising a layer of metal comprising aluminium or copper
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B32—LAYERED PRODUCTS
    • B32B—LAYERED PRODUCTS, i.e. PRODUCTS BUILT-UP OF STRATA OF FLAT OR NON-FLAT, e.g. CELLULAR OR HONEYCOMB, FORM
    • B32B5/00—Layered products characterised by the non- homogeneity or physical structure, i.e. comprising a fibrous, filamentary, particulate or foam layer; Layered products characterised by having a layer differing constitutionally or physically in different parts
    • B32B5/02—Layered products characterised by the non- homogeneity or physical structure, i.e. comprising a fibrous, filamentary, particulate or foam layer; Layered products characterised by having a layer differing constitutionally or physically in different parts characterised by structural features of a fibrous or filamentary layer
    • B32B5/028—Net structure, e.g. spaced apart filaments bonded at the crossing points
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B32—LAYERED PRODUCTS
    • B32B—LAYERED PRODUCTS, i.e. PRODUCTS BUILT-UP OF STRATA OF FLAT OR NON-FLAT, e.g. CELLULAR OR HONEYCOMB, FORM
    • B32B5/00—Layered products characterised by the non- homogeneity or physical structure, i.e. comprising a fibrous, filamentary, particulate or foam layer; Layered products characterised by having a layer differing constitutionally or physically in different parts
    • B32B5/22—Layered products characterised by the non- homogeneity or physical structure, i.e. comprising a fibrous, filamentary, particulate or foam layer; Layered products characterised by having a layer differing constitutionally or physically in different parts characterised by the presence of two or more layers which are next to each other and are fibrous, filamentary, formed of particles or foamed
    • B32B5/24—Layered products characterised by the non- homogeneity or physical structure, i.e. comprising a fibrous, filamentary, particulate or foam layer; Layered products characterised by having a layer differing constitutionally or physically in different parts characterised by the presence of two or more layers which are next to each other and are fibrous, filamentary, formed of particles or foamed one layer being a fibrous or filamentary layer
    • B32B5/26—Layered products characterised by the non- homogeneity or physical structure, i.e. comprising a fibrous, filamentary, particulate or foam layer; Layered products characterised by having a layer differing constitutionally or physically in different parts characterised by the presence of two or more layers which are next to each other and are fibrous, filamentary, formed of particles or foamed one layer being a fibrous or filamentary layer another layer next to it also being fibrous or filamentary
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B32—LAYERED PRODUCTS
    • B32B—LAYERED PRODUCTS, i.e. PRODUCTS BUILT-UP OF STRATA OF FLAT OR NON-FLAT, e.g. CELLULAR OR HONEYCOMB, FORM
    • B32B2262/00—Composition or structural features of fibres which form a fibrous or filamentary layer or are present as additives
    • B32B2262/02—Synthetic macromolecular fibres
    • B32B2262/0276—Polyester fibres
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B32—LAYERED PRODUCTS
    • B32B—LAYERED PRODUCTS, i.e. PRODUCTS BUILT-UP OF STRATA OF FLAT OR NON-FLAT, e.g. CELLULAR OR HONEYCOMB, FORM
    • B32B2262/00—Composition or structural features of fibres which form a fibrous or filamentary layer or are present as additives
    • B32B2262/06—Vegetal fibres
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B32—LAYERED PRODUCTS
    • B32B—LAYERED PRODUCTS, i.e. PRODUCTS BUILT-UP OF STRATA OF FLAT OR NON-FLAT, e.g. CELLULAR OR HONEYCOMB, FORM
    • B32B2437/00—Clothing

Definitions

  • the invention generally relates to an article of clothing for heating or cooling body of a wearer. More specifically, the invention relates to an article of clothing for heating or cooling body of a wearer by utilizing one or more thermoelectric modules.
  • thermo-regulated apparels are also used for heating or cooling body of a wearer.
  • the passive thermo-regulated apparels generally utilize chemical reactions for heating and phase change materials for cooling.
  • the passive thermo-regulated apparels may not be efficiently incorporated into a wearable article.
  • FIG. 1 illustrates a block diagram of a side view of an article for clothing in accordance with various embodiments of the invention.
  • FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of an article for clothing in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
  • FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective view of an article for clothing for a human body in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
  • FIG. 4 illustrates a block diagram of a side view of an article for clothing in accordance with another embodiment of the invention.
  • the invention provides an article of clothing for heating or cooling body of a wearer.
  • the article includes one or more insulating layers for providing padding to the article.
  • Each insulating layer includes one or more slots for holding one or more thermoelectric modules, such that, a slot of the one or more slots holds one thermoelectric module of the one or more thermoelectric modules.
  • the one or more thermoelectric modules provide heating or cooling to the body of the wearer of the article.
  • each thermoelectric module is thermally coupled to one or more heat sink layers for exchanging heat of the thermoelectric module.
  • a heat sink layer of the one or more heat sink layers is a thin sheet.
  • Each heat sink layer of the one or more heat sink layers is also coupled to one or more wicking assemblies.
  • the one or more wicking assemblies hold a heat absorbing liquid, which enables cooling of the one or more heat sink layers by evaporation.
  • FIG. 1 illustrates a block diagram of a side view of an article 100 for clothing in accordance with various embodiments of the invention.
  • article 100 may include an apparel or a garment or an accessory, such as but not limited to, jackets, biking shorts, biking shoes, biking jerseys, exercise suits, sport bras, spandex pants, under garments, shorts, tops, shirts, gloves, shoes, boots, ski boots, roller skates, ice skates, roller blades, socks, wrist bands, heart monitors, wrist watches, uniforms, baseball caps, golf caps, visors, head bands, hats, glasses, sunglasses, headphones, medallions, pendants, jewelry, necklaces, bracelets, anklets, chemical suits, bio suits, space suits, space helmets, bulletproof vests, fire protective suits, motorcycle leathers, goggles, hard hats, construction helmets, welding masks, motor racing helmets, motor cycle helmets, motor racing suits, motor racing under garments,
  • an apparel or a garment or an accessory such as but not limited to, jacket
  • Article 100 includes different layers configured to provide heating or cooling to body of wearer of article 100.
  • Article 100 includes one or more insulating layers, such as an insulating layer 102 for providing padding to article 100.
  • the one or more insulating layers may be composed of an insulating material to provide insulation to the body from any unrequited heat that may be dissipated in article 100.
  • the insulating material is generally soft and flexible so that the one or more insulating layers enable article 100 to accommodate contours of the body of the wearer. Examples of insulating material include, but are not limited to neoprene, Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (EVA) and foam.
  • EVA Ethylene Vinyl Acetate
  • an insulating layer may be lined with a cloth material on a side of the insulating layer that may be in contact with the body of the wearer.
  • Each insulating layer of the one or more insulating layers includes one or more slots.
  • insulating layer 102 includes a slot 104.
  • the one or more slots are openings in the one or more insulating layers in order to accommodate and hold one or more thermoelectric modules in article 100.
  • slot 104 present in insulating layer 102 holds a thermoelectric module 106.
  • a slot of the one or more slots may include one or more thermoelectric modules.
  • a slot may include a cascaded arrangement of the one or more thermoelectric modules.
  • size and shape of a slot is designed in order to completely fit the one or more thermoelectric modules in the slot.
  • the one or more thermoelectric modules are coupled with the one or more slots using a fixing mechanism, such as fixing using an insulating glue, fastening using screws, fixing using a tape, and stitching.
  • the one or more thermoelectric modules provide heating or cooling to the body of the wearer of article 100.
  • the one or more thermoelectric modules accommodated within the one or more slots come in contact with the body of the wearer.
  • a side of thermoelectric module 106 present in slot 104 of insulating layer 102 comes in contact with the body of the wearer.
  • a thermal spreading layer may be provided between the one or more thermoelectric modules and the body of wearer of article 100. This thermal spreading layer facilitates in uniformly heating and cooling the body of the wearer.
  • a phase change layer may be provided between the one or more thermoelectric modules and the body of wearer of article lOO. The phase change layer facilitates in uniformly heating and cooling the body of the wearer.
  • the phase change layer may composed of any phase change materials known in the art.
  • the one or more thermoelectric modules provide heating or cooling to the body of the wearer based on the thermoelectric effect, which involves simultaneous cooling of one junction and heating of another junction in a thermocouple.
  • the thermoelectric effect occurs when current is passed through two dissimilar metals or semiconductors (N-type and P-type) that are connected to each other at two junctions forming a P-N junction.
  • N-type and P-type dissimilar metals or semiconductors
  • P-N junction for ⁇ example, bismuth telluride (Bi2Te3) may be used for forming the P-N junction.
  • a network of multiple P-N junctions may be formed in a thermoelectric module with all P- type material facing one side and N-type material facing an opposite side.
  • thermoelectric module Depending on the direction of the current, either P-type or N-type surface becomes hot or cold.
  • a heating surface and a cooling surface are formed on opposite sides in the thermoelectric module.
  • the heating surface and the cooling surface in the thermoelectric module may be achieved by passing current to a P-N junction slowly or by passing current to the P-N junction in a rapid manner.
  • the heating surface and the cooling surface in the thermoelectric module are thermally insulated from each other as long as supply of the current is maintained to the P-N junction. Therefore, based on the current supply a side in contact with the body of the wearer may be maintained in a hot condition or a cold condition in order to provide heating or cooling respectively to the body of the wearer.
  • the current is supplied to the one or more thermoelectric modules by a battery unit.
  • a battery unit For example, lithium based rechargeable batteries may be used as the battery unit. Other energy sources may also be used for supplying the current, such as solar cells, fuel cells and so forth.
  • the battery unit may be placed external to article 100 or may be incorporated in article 100. The current may be supplied to a
  • thermoelectric module in a controlled fashion by the battery unit for either heating or cooling the body of the wearer.
  • the current supplied by the battery unit may be controlled for varying a range of temperature associated with heating or cooling of the body of the wearer. For example, a temperature selected from a temperature range of -4.5 to 70 Deg C. may be maintained on a side of the thermoelectric module.
  • the current supplied by the battery unit may be controlled by a pre-set program or based on a user input.
  • the pre-set program may include a schedule for varying the current supplied by the battery unit.
  • the pre-set program may control the current supplied by the battery unit such that article 100 is configured to provide heating to the body of the wearer during morning and night. Further, article 100 is configured to provide cooling to the body of the wearer during afternoon.
  • the one or more thermoelectric modules are user controllable and provide efficient heating or cooling to the body of the wearer.
  • One of ordinary skill in the " art will recognize that various possible reconfigurations of the one or more thermoelectric modules may be maintained to provide a variety of heating and cooling effects to the body of the wearer.
  • the one or more thermoelectric modules may produce unrequited heat that needs to be dissipated.
  • the one or more thermoelectric modules are thermally coupled with one or more heat sink layers.
  • thermoelectric module 106 is coupled to a heat sink layer 108.
  • a single heat sink layer may be coupled to the one or more thermoelectric module.
  • each thermoelectric module may be coupled with a heat sink layer.
  • the one or more heat sink layers are coupled with the one or more thermoelectric modules using a fixing mechanism.
  • the fixing mechanism may include fixing using a thermally conductive adhesive, pressure fixing, fixing through screws, and so forth.
  • the thermally conductive adhesive used for coupling may be one of a double sided tape, an epoxy cement, a thermally conductive heat film adhesive, and so forth.
  • a heat sink layer of the one or more heat sink layers is a thin sheet used for transferring heat dissipated from the one or more thermoelectric modules. Thickness and size of the heat sink layer is selected based on an amount of heat dissipated by the one or more thermoelectric modules. However, the heat sink layer may have a minimum thickness so that thermal inertia or heat holding capacity of the heat sink layer is minimized. Consequently, heat dissipated from the one or more thermoelectric modules is not stored in the one or more heat sink layers and thus immediately transferred away from the one or more thermoelectric modules. Further, the minimum thickness imparts flexibility to the one or more heat sink layers.
  • the one or more heat sink layers may be prepared from thin plates of metal or non-metal materials, such as aluminum, magnesium, conductive alloys, carbon fibers, and composites. Further, thickness of the one or more heat sink layers may be maintained in a range of 0.5 mm to 10 mm.
  • each heat sink layer of the one or more heat sink layers may be angled at edges of the heat sink layer.
  • the edges of the heat sink layer may . be angled at 30 degrees (not shown in FIG. 1).
  • the edges of the heat sink layer may be angled, such that, the heat sink layer may be fixed with an insulating layer of the one or more insulating layers, while making minimum contact with the insulating layer.
  • a small air gap may also be maintained between the heat sink layer and the insulating layer. Therefore, the heat sink layer may be easily fixed in article 100 using the angled edges.
  • heat transferred from the heat sink layer is not passed on to the insulating layer due to the small air gap. Rather, the heat is transferred by the heat sink layer in a direction opposite to a side positioned towards the insulating layer.
  • a heat sink layer of the one or more heat sink layers may have a phase change material layer on its hot side. This phase change layer may absorb the heat received by the heat sink layer from a thermoelectric module coupled to the heat sink layer.
  • the phase change layer may composed of any phase change materials known in the art.
  • the heat transferred from the one or more thermoelectric modules is dissipated by cooling the one or more heat sink layers. Cooling of the one or more heat sink layers is achieved by placing one or more wicking assemblies in contact with the one or more heat sink layers. For example, a wicking assembly 110 is placed over heat sink layer 108.
  • Each wicking assembly of the one or more wicking assemblies includes a heat absorbing liquid.
  • the heat absorbing liquid absorbs heat from the one or more heat sink layers and evaporates, thereby cooling the one or more heat sink layers.
  • Examples of the heat absorbing liquid may include, but are not limited to water, synthesized deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA), ammonia and ethyl alcohol.
  • the heat absorbing liquid may be supplied to the one or more wicking assemblies using a liquid supplying unit which is external to article 100.
  • the liquid supplying unit may be a spray device which sprays the heat absorbing liquid on the one or more wicking assemblies.
  • the liquid supplying unit may be configured within article 100 to supply the heat absorbing liquid to the one or more wicking assemblies.
  • the liquid supplying unit may be a storage pipe configured within article 100, which stores the heat absorbing liquid and supplies the heat absorbing liquid to the one or more wicking assemblies based on a pressure mechanism.
  • a wicking assembly of the one or more wicking assemblies is further explained in detail in conjunction with FIG. 2.
  • Various layers of article 100 such as the one or more thermoelectric modules, the one or more heat sink layers and the one or more wicking assemblies may be attached to the one or more insulating layer using a fixing mechanism, such as fixing using an insulating glue, stitching, pressure fixing, fixing using screws, and so forth.
  • a fixing mechanism such as fixing using an insulating glue, stitching, pressure fixing, fixing using screws, and so forth.
  • article 100 may be used for cooling the body of the wearer.
  • a side of each thermoelectric module of the one or more thermoelectric modules which is positioned towards the body of the wearer is maintained in a cool condition.
  • the cool side of a thermoelectric module forms contact with the body of the wearer through a slot in an insulating layer over which the thermoelectric module is fitted. Further, a side opposite to the cool side is maintained at a hot condition in each thermoelectric module.
  • Heat generated from a hot side of a thermoelectric module of the one or more thermoelectric modules may be passed on to one or more heat sink layers coupled to the thermoelectric module.
  • the one or more heat sink layers transfer the heat in a direction opposite to the body of the wearer.
  • the heat present in the one or more heat sink layers may be dissipated or transferred using a heat absorbing liquid supplied to the one or more wicking assemblies. As the one or more wicking assemblies are positioned in contact with the one or more heat sink layers, the heat absorbing liquid is passed onto the one or more heat sink layers. As a result, dissipation of the heat is achieved by cooling the one or more heat sink layers by evaporation of the heat absorbing liquid. The one or more insulating layers also restrict transfer of the heat towards the body of the wearer. [0031] In another exemplary implementation, article 100 may be used for heating the body of the wearer.
  • thermoelectric module For heating the body of the wearer, a side of each thermoelectric module of the one or more thermoelectric modules which is positioned towards the body of the wearer is maintained in a hot condition. Further, a side opposite to the hot side is maintained in a cool condition in each thermoelectric module. In this case, the heat generated by the thermoelectric module is transferred to the body of the wearer and not to the one or more heat sink layers. Therefore, cooling of the one or more heat sink layers by utilizing the heat absorbing liquids in the one or more wicking assemblies, may not be performed in this implementation.
  • FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view layered structure of an article 200 for clothing in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
  • Article 200 includes one or more insulating layers, such as insulating layer 102.
  • Each insulating layer of the one or more insulating layers includes one or more slots.
  • insulating layer 102 includes slot 104.
  • the one or more slots hold one or more thermoelectric modules.
  • slot 104 present in insulating layer 102 holds thermoelectric module 106.
  • the one or more thermoelectric modules provide heating or cooling to body of wearer of article 200.
  • the one or more thermoelectric modules are coupled to one or more heat sink layers.
  • thermoelectric module 106 is coupled to a heat sink layer 108.
  • the one or more insulating layers, the one or more slots, the one or more thermoelectric modules, and the one or more heat sink layers have been explained in detail in conjunction with FIG. 1.
  • heat transferred from the one or more heat sink layers is dissipated by cooling the one or more heat sink layers. Cooling of the one or more heat sink layers is achieved by placing one or more wicking assemblies in contact with the one or more heat sink layers. For example, wicking assembly 1 10 is placed over heat sink layer 108. Each wicking assembly of the one or more wicking assemblies includes a plurality of layers to hold the heat absorbing liquid and to pass the heat absorbing liquid to the one or more heat sink layers for cooling.
  • a wicking assembly such as wicking assembly 1 10 includes a polymer mesh layer 202.
  • Polymer mesh layer 202 is capable of receiving the heat absorbing liquid.
  • the heat absorbing liquid may be received by polymer mesh layer 202 from a liquid supplying unit.
  • the liquid supplying unit may be configured external to article 200.
  • the heat absorbing liquid may be received by polymer mesh layer 202 from a liquid supplying unit configured within article 200.
  • Polymer mesh layer 202 may be composed of a flexible polymer material having high wicking characteristic, such as, polyester.
  • Polymer mesh layer 202 supports efficient spreading of the heat absorbing liquid over other layers of wicking assembly 110. Further, polymer mesh layer 202 enables dissipation of evaporative vapors that may be generated in article 200.
  • Liquid supplying layer 204 stores the heat absorbing liquid supplied through polymer mesh layer 202.
  • Liquid supplying layer 204 may be prepared from a soft fabric which is capable of absorbing and storing the heat absorbing liquid.
  • Liquid supplying later 204 may be composed of, but not limited to cotton, 4DG fibers, candle wick, super absorbents, and sponges.
  • liquid supplying layer 204 may be positioned on a heat sink layer, such that, a side of liquid supplying layer 204 opposite to the side in contact with polymer mesh layer 202, is in contact with the heat sink layer.
  • the heat absorbing liquid stored in liquid supplying layer 204 is directly supplied to the heat sink layer. Therefore, cooling of the heat sink layer may be achieved by evaporation of the heat absorbing liquid.
  • liquid supplying layer 204 may be positioned on a liquid holding layer 206, such that, a side of liquid supplying layer 204 opposite to the side in contact with polymer mesh layer 202, is in positioned towards liquid holding layer 206.
  • liquid supplying layer 204 supplies the heat absorbing liquid to liquid holding layer 206.
  • Liquid holding layer 206 holds the heat absorbing liquid over a heat sink layer.
  • Liquid holding layer 206 may be prepared from a thin polymer sheet which supports smooth and rapid absorption of the heat absorbing liquid, such as a microfilament polyester knit.
  • Liquid holding layer 206 may further be coupled to a metallic mesh layer 208, such that, metallic mesh layer 208 is positioned in between liquid supplying layer 204 and liquid holding layer 206.
  • Metallic mesh layer 208 is an open mesh which is prepared from metallic wires, such as aluminum.
  • Metallic mesh layer 208 attaches liquid holding layer 206 on the heat sink layer by securing liquid holding layer 206 over the heat sink layer. The securing may be achieved by folding edges of metallic mesh layer 208 at sides of the heat sink layer.
  • Metallic mesh layer 208 enables transfer of heat absorbing liquid from liquid holding layer 206 to the heat sink layer by providing efficient contact between liquid holding layer 208 and the heat sink layer.
  • FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective view of various layers of the article 200 of clothing worn on a human body.300 in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. As shown in FIG. 3, article 200 (shown as a layered architecture) is used for heating or cooling chest of human body 300.
  • FIG. 4 illustrates a block diagram of a side view of an article 400 for clothing in accordance with another embodiment of the invention.
  • Article 400 is used for heating body of a wearer of article 400.
  • Examples of article 400 may include an apparel or a garment or an accessory such as, jackets, biking shorts, biking shoes, biking jerseys, exercise suits, sport bras, spandex pants, under garments, shorts, tops, shirts, gloves, shoes, boots, ski boots, roller skates, ice skates, roller blades, socks, wrist bands, heart monitors, wrist watches, uniforms, baseball caps, golf caps, visors, head bands, hats, glasses, sunglasses, headphones, medallions, pendants, jewelry, necklaces, bracelets, anklets, chemical suits, bio suits, space suits, space helmets, bullet-proof vests, fire protective suits, motorcycle leathers, goggles, hard hats, construction helmets, welding masks, motor racing helmets, motor cycle helmets, motor racing suits, motor racing under garments, bicycle helmets, sports helmet, skiing suits and under garments, riding helmets, equestrian riding helmets, fencing masks, fencing tunics, shin guards, knee pads, military equipment hats, neck wraps,
  • Article 400 includes one or more thermoelectric modules, such as a thermoelectric module 402.
  • the one or more thermoelectric modules supplies heat to the body of the wearer based on the thermoelectric effect.
  • a thermal spreading layer may be provided between the one or more thermoelectric modules and the body of the wearer of article 100. This thermal spreading layer facilitates in uniformly heating the body of the wearer.
  • a phase change layer may be provided between the one or more thermoelectric modules and the body of the wearer of article 100. The phase change layer facilitates in uniformly heating the body of the wearer.
  • the phase change layer may composed of any phase change materials known in the art. As explained before in conjunction with FIG.
  • each thermoelectric module of the one or more thermoelectric modules forms a heating surface and a cooling surface on opposite sides of the thermoelectric module based on a current supply.
  • the current supplied to a thermoelectric module is maintained, such that, a heating surface is maintained at a side of the thermoelectric module which is towards the body of the wearer.
  • the current is supplied to the one or more thermoelectric modules using a battery unit.
  • a battery unit lithium based rechargeable batteries may be used as the battery unit.
  • Other energy sources may also be used for supplying the current, such as solar cells, fuel cells and so forth.
  • the battery unit may be placed external to article 400 or may be incorporated in article 400.
  • the current supplied by the battery unit may be controlled for varying a range of temperature while heating the body of the wearer.
  • the current supplied by the battery unit may be controlled based on a pre-set program or based on a user input.
  • the one or more thermoelectric modules are coupled to one or more heat sink layers.
  • thermoelectric module 402 is connected to heat sink layer 404.
  • thermoelectric module is connected to a heat sink layer, such that, a heating surface of the thermoelectric module is in contact with the heat sink layer. Further, a side of the heat sink layer, opposite to the side in contact with the thermoelectric module, forms a contact with the body of the wearer.
  • a heat sink layer of the one or more heat sink layers is a thin sheet used for transferring heat generated from the one or more thermoelectric modules to the body of the wearer. Thickness and size of the heat sink layer is selected based on amount of heat to be transferred from the one or more thermoelectric module.
  • the heat sink layer may have a minimum thickness so that thermal inertia or heat holding capacity of the heat sink layer is minimized. Consequently, heat generated from the one or more thermoelectric modules is not stored in the one of more heat sink layers and is immediately transferred to the body of the wearer. Further, minimum thickness imparts flexibility to the one or more heat sink layers.
  • the one or more heat sink layers may be prepared from thin plates of metal or non-metal materials, such as aluminum, magnesium, conductive alloys, carbon fibers, and composites. Further, thickness of the one or more heat sink layers may be maintained in a range of 0.5 mm to 10 mm.
  • a thermally conductive adhesive such as a double sided tape, an epoxy cement, a highly thermally conductive heat film adhesive, or the like, may be used.
  • a side of a heat sink layer in contact with the body of the wearer may be lined with a conductive fabric to provide softness to article 400.
  • thermoelectric modules and the one or more heat sink layers are held in article 400 by utilizing a padding 406.
  • Padding 406 may include one or more slots for holding the one or more .thermoelectric modules and " the one or more heat sink layers.
  • Padding 406 is generally prepared from soft and flexible material, so that article 400 takes contour of the body of the wearer.
  • padding 406 may be prepared from a soft insulating material, such as neoprene, Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (EVA) and foam.
  • EVA Ethylene Vinyl Acetate
  • padding 406 may be prepared from a heat absorbing fabric material which absorbs the heat from the one or more heat sink layers and provides the heat to the body of the wearer of article 400.
  • thermoelectric modules present in the article provide both heating and cooling function, the same article may be used for the purpose of heating and cooling the body of the wearer.
  • the article may heat or cool body of a wearer of the article of clothing based on a user input. Further, the article enables the users to select a required temperature while heating or cooling the body of the wearer.
  • the article incorporates heat sink layers with thin sheets and wicking assemblies, an efficient mechanism for dissipation of unrequited heat generated by the thermoelectric modules by evaporation is achieved.
  • insulating layer enables insulation of the body of the wearer by transmission of the unrequited heat. Therefore, unrequited heat is not transmitted to the body of the wearer.
  • various layers of the article are composed of materials that are soft and flexible thereby enabling the article to be easily worn by a wearer by accommodating contours of the body.
  • layered arrangement of various soft and flexible materials in the article results in a light weight article of clothing which is portable and easy to use.
  • the article may be used in various applications, such as medical usage, sports purposes, and fitness purposes.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Environmental & Geological Engineering (AREA)
  • Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Physical Education & Sports Medicine (AREA)
  • Textile Engineering (AREA)
  • Professional, Industrial, Or Sporting Protective Garments (AREA)

Abstract

An article (100) of clothing for heating or cooling body of a wearer is provided. The article (100) includes one or more insulating layers (102) for providing padding to the article (100). Each insulating layer (102) includes one or more slots (104) for holding one or more thermoelectric modules (106). The one or more thermoelectric modules (106) provide heating or cooling to the body of the wearer of the article (100). Further, the one or more thermoelectric modules (106) are thermally coupled to one or more heat sink layers (108) for exchanging heat of the one or more thermoelectric modules (106). A heat sink layer (108) of the one or more heat sink layers (108) is a thin sheet. Each heat sink layer (108) is also coupled to one or more wicking assemblies (110). The one or more wicking assemblies (110) include a heat absorbing liquid, which enables cooling of the one or more heat sink layers (108) by evaporation.

Description

ARTICLE OF CLOTHING FOR HEATING OR COOLING BODY OF WEARER
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The invention generally relates to an article of clothing for heating or cooling body of a wearer. More specifically, the invention relates to an article of clothing for heating or cooling body of a wearer by utilizing one or more thermoelectric modules.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Currently, thermal devices are utilized in articles of clothing for heating or cooling body of a wearer. For example, an active thermo-regulated apparel may be used to maintain a temperature that a wearer has selected. However, the active thermo- regulated apparel may be used only for one purpose at a time i.e., either for cooling or for heating.
[0003] Apart from the active thermo-regulated apparels, passive thermo-regulated apparels are also used for heating or cooling body of a wearer. The passive thermo- regulated apparels generally utilize chemical reactions for heating and phase change materials for cooling. However, the passive thermo-regulated apparels may not be efficiently incorporated into a wearable article.
[0004] In addition to general thermal devices, thermoelectric devices may also be used in articles of clothing for providing heating or cooling. Thermoelectric devices efficiently provide both heating and cooling. Such thermoelectric devices are generally incorporated external to the article of clothing as the thermoelectric devices constantly-require dissipation of heat, which may not be achieved by placing the thermoelectric device in the article of clothing. However, external thermoelectric devices result in clumsy articles of clothing which are tough to handle. [0005] There is therefore a need of an article for clothing which efficiently provides heating or cooling to body of a wearer. Further, there is a need for an article for clothing which is easily wearable and which utilizes thermoelectric modules for heating or cooling, by providing efficient heat dissipation for the thermoelectric module.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES
[0006] The accompanying figures, where like reference numerals refer to identical or functionally similar elements throughout the separate views and which together with the detailed description below are incorporated in and form part of the specification, serve to further illustrate various embodiments and to explain various principles and advantages all in accordance with the invention.
[0007] FIG. 1 illustrates a block diagram of a side view of an article for clothing in accordance with various embodiments of the invention.
[0008] FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of an article for clothing in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
[0009] FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective view of an article for clothing for a human body in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
[0010] FIG. 4 illustrates a block diagram of a side view of an article for clothing in accordance with another embodiment of the invention.
[0011] Skilled artisans will appreciate that elements in the figures are illustrated for simplicity and clarity and have not necessarily been drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions of some of the elements in the figures may be exaggerated relative to other elements to help to improve understanding of embodiments of the invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0012] Before describing in detail embodiments that are in accordance with the present invention, it should be observed that the embodiments reside primarily in combinations of method steps and components related to an article of clothing for heating or cooling body of a wearer. Accordingly, the components and method steps have been represented where appropriate by conventional symbols in the drawings, showing only those specific details that are pertinent to understanding the embodiments of the invention so as not to obscure the disclosure with details that will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of the description herein.
[0013] In this document, relational terms such as first and second, top and bottom, and the like may be used solely to distinguish one entity or action from another entity or action without necessarily requiring or implying any actual such relationship or order between such entities or actions. The terms "comprises," "comprising," or any other variation thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that, a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements does not include only those elements but may include other elements not expressly listed or inherent to such process, method, article, or apparatus. An element proceeded by "comprises ...a" does not, without more constraints, preclude the existence of additional identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises the element.
[0014] Generally speaking, pursuant to various embodiments, the invention provides an article of clothing for heating or cooling body of a wearer. The article includes one or more insulating layers for providing padding to the article. Each insulating layer includes one or more slots for holding one or more thermoelectric modules, such that, a slot of the one or more slots holds one thermoelectric module of the one or more thermoelectric modules. The one or more thermoelectric modules provide heating or cooling to the body of the wearer of the article. Further, each thermoelectric module is thermally coupled to one or more heat sink layers for exchanging heat of the thermoelectric module. A heat sink layer of the one or more heat sink layers is a thin sheet. Each heat sink layer of the one or more heat sink layers is also coupled to one or more wicking assemblies. The one or more wicking assemblies hold a heat absorbing liquid, which enables cooling of the one or more heat sink layers by evaporation.
[0015] FIG. 1 illustrates a block diagram of a side view of an article 100 for clothing in accordance with various embodiments of the invention. The block diagram represents only the side view of a portion of article 100. Examples of article 100 may include an apparel or a garment or an accessory, such as but not limited to, jackets, biking shorts, biking shoes, biking jerseys, exercise suits, sport bras, spandex pants, under garments, shorts, tops, shirts, gloves, shoes, boots, ski boots, roller skates, ice skates, roller blades, socks, wrist bands, heart monitors, wrist watches, uniforms, baseball caps, golf caps, visors, head bands, hats, glasses, sunglasses, headphones, medallions, pendants, jewelry, necklaces, bracelets, anklets, chemical suits, bio suits, space suits, space helmets, bulletproof vests, fire protective suits, motorcycle leathers, goggles, hard hats, construction helmets, welding masks, motor racing helmets, motor cycle helmets, motor racing suits, motor racing under garments, bicycle helmets, sports helmet, skiing suits and under garments, riding helmets, equestrian riding helmets, fencing masks, fencing tunics, shin guards, knee pads, military equipment hats, neck wraps, and military helmets. [0016] Article 100 includes different layers configured to provide heating or cooling to body of wearer of article 100. Article 100 includes one or more insulating layers, such as an insulating layer 102 for providing padding to article 100. The one or more insulating layers may be composed of an insulating material to provide insulation to the body from any unrequited heat that may be dissipated in article 100. The insulating material is generally soft and flexible so that the one or more insulating layers enable article 100 to accommodate contours of the body of the wearer. Examples of insulating material include, but are not limited to neoprene, Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (EVA) and foam. In an embodiment, an insulating layer may be lined with a cloth material on a side of the insulating layer that may be in contact with the body of the wearer. [0017] Each insulating layer of the one or more insulating layers includes one or more slots. For example, insulating layer 102 includes a slot 104. The one or more slots are openings in the one or more insulating layers in order to accommodate and hold one or more thermoelectric modules in article 100. For example, slot 104 present in insulating layer 102 holds a thermoelectric module 106. It will apparent to a person skilled in the art that a slot of the one or more slots may include one or more thermoelectric modules. Further, a slot may include a cascaded arrangement of the one or more thermoelectric modules. In an embodiment, size and shape of a slot is designed in order to completely fit the one or more thermoelectric modules in the slot. The one or more thermoelectric modules are coupled with the one or more slots using a fixing mechanism, such as fixing using an insulating glue, fastening using screws, fixing using a tape, and stitching.
[0018] The one or more thermoelectric modules provide heating or cooling to the body of the wearer of article 100. The one or more thermoelectric modules accommodated within the one or more slots come in contact with the body of the wearer. For example, a side of thermoelectric module 106 present in slot 104 of insulating layer 102 comes in contact with the body of the wearer. In an embodiment, a thermal spreading layer may be provided between the one or more thermoelectric modules and the body of wearer of article 100. This thermal spreading layer facilitates in uniformly heating and cooling the body of the wearer. Alternatively, a phase change layer may be provided between the one or more thermoelectric modules and the body of wearer of article lOO.The phase change layer facilitates in uniformly heating and cooling the body of the wearer. The phase change layer may composed of any phase change materials known in the art. [0019] The one or more thermoelectric modules provide heating or cooling to the body of the wearer based on the thermoelectric effect, which involves simultaneous cooling of one junction and heating of another junction in a thermocouple. The thermoelectric effect occurs when current is passed through two dissimilar metals or semiconductors (N-type and P-type) that are connected to each other at two junctions forming a P-N junction. For ^example, bismuth telluride (Bi2Te3) may be used for forming the P-N junction. A network of multiple P-N junctions may be formed in a thermoelectric module with all P- type material facing one side and N-type material facing an opposite side. Depending on the direction of the current, either P-type or N-type surface becomes hot or cold. As a result, a heating surface and a cooling surface are formed on opposite sides in the thermoelectric module. The heating surface and the cooling surface in the thermoelectric module may be achieved by passing current to a P-N junction slowly or by passing current to the P-N junction in a rapid manner. The heating surface and the cooling surface in the thermoelectric module are thermally insulated from each other as long as supply of the current is maintained to the P-N junction. Therefore, based on the current supply a side in contact with the body of the wearer may be maintained in a hot condition or a cold condition in order to provide heating or cooling respectively to the body of the wearer.
[0020] In an embodiment, the current is supplied to the one or more thermoelectric modules by a battery unit. For example, lithium based rechargeable batteries may be used as the battery unit. Other energy sources may also be used for supplying the current, such as solar cells, fuel cells and so forth. The battery unit may be placed external to article 100 or may be incorporated in article 100. The current may be supplied to a
thermoelectric module in a controlled fashion by the battery unit for either heating or cooling the body of the wearer. Further, the current supplied by the battery unit may be controlled for varying a range of temperature associated with heating or cooling of the body of the wearer. For example, a temperature selected from a temperature range of -4.5 to 70 Deg C. may be maintained on a side of the thermoelectric module. The current supplied by the battery unit may be controlled by a pre-set program or based on a user input. The pre-set program may include a schedule for varying the current supplied by the battery unit. For example, the pre-set program may control the current supplied by the battery unit such that article 100 is configured to provide heating to the body of the wearer during morning and night. Further, article 100 is configured to provide cooling to the body of the wearer during afternoon.
[0021] Therefore, the one or more thermoelectric modules are user controllable and provide efficient heating or cooling to the body of the wearer. One of ordinary skill in the " art will recognize that various possible reconfigurations of the one or more thermoelectric modules may be maintained to provide a variety of heating and cooling effects to the body of the wearer. [0022] During operation, the one or more thermoelectric modules may produce unrequited heat that needs to be dissipated. In order to accomplish this, the one or more thermoelectric modules are thermally coupled with one or more heat sink layers. For example, thermoelectric module 106 is coupled to a heat sink layer 108. In an
embodiment, a single heat sink layer may be coupled to the one or more thermoelectric module. Alternatively, each thermoelectric module may be coupled with a heat sink layer. The one or more heat sink layers are coupled with the one or more thermoelectric modules using a fixing mechanism. The fixing mechanism may include fixing using a thermally conductive adhesive, pressure fixing, fixing through screws, and so forth. The thermally conductive adhesive used for coupling may be one of a double sided tape, an epoxy cement, a thermally conductive heat film adhesive, and so forth.
[0023] A heat sink layer of the one or more heat sink layers is a thin sheet used for transferring heat dissipated from the one or more thermoelectric modules. Thickness and size of the heat sink layer is selected based on an amount of heat dissipated by the one or more thermoelectric modules. However, the heat sink layer may have a minimum thickness so that thermal inertia or heat holding capacity of the heat sink layer is minimized. Consequently, heat dissipated from the one or more thermoelectric modules is not stored in the one or more heat sink layers and thus immediately transferred away from the one or more thermoelectric modules. Further, the minimum thickness imparts flexibility to the one or more heat sink layers.
[0024] The one or more heat sink layers may be prepared from thin plates of metal or non-metal materials, such as aluminum, magnesium, conductive alloys, carbon fibers, and composites. Further, thickness of the one or more heat sink layers may be maintained in a range of 0.5 mm to 10 mm.
[0025] In an embodiment, each heat sink layer of the one or more heat sink layers may be angled at edges of the heat sink layer. For example, the edges of the heat sink layer may . be angled at 30 degrees (not shown in FIG. 1). The edges of the heat sink layer may be angled, such that, the heat sink layer may be fixed with an insulating layer of the one or more insulating layers, while making minimum contact with the insulating layer. In an embodiment, a small air gap may also be maintained between the heat sink layer and the insulating layer. Therefore, the heat sink layer may be easily fixed in article 100 using the angled edges. However, heat transferred from the heat sink layer is not passed on to the insulating layer due to the small air gap. Rather, the heat is transferred by the heat sink layer in a direction opposite to a side positioned towards the insulating layer.
[0026] In an embodiment, a heat sink layer of the one or more heat sink layers may have a phase change material layer on its hot side. This phase change layer may absorb the heat received by the heat sink layer from a thermoelectric module coupled to the heat sink layer. The phase change layer may composed of any phase change materials known in the art.
[0027] The heat transferred from the one or more thermoelectric modules is dissipated by cooling the one or more heat sink layers. Cooling of the one or more heat sink layers is achieved by placing one or more wicking assemblies in contact with the one or more heat sink layers. For example, a wicking assembly 110 is placed over heat sink layer 108.
Each wicking assembly of the one or more wicking assemblies includes a heat absorbing liquid. The heat absorbing liquid absorbs heat from the one or more heat sink layers and evaporates, thereby cooling the one or more heat sink layers. Examples of the heat absorbing liquid may include, but are not limited to water, synthesized deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA), ammonia and ethyl alcohol.
[0028] In an embodiment, the heat absorbing liquid may be supplied to the one or more wicking assemblies using a liquid supplying unit which is external to article 100. For example, the liquid supplying unit may be a spray device which sprays the heat absorbing liquid on the one or more wicking assemblies. Alternatively, the liquid supplying unit may be configured within article 100 to supply the heat absorbing liquid to the one or more wicking assemblies. For example, the liquid supplying unit may be a storage pipe configured within article 100, which stores the heat absorbing liquid and supplies the heat absorbing liquid to the one or more wicking assemblies based on a pressure mechanism. A wicking assembly of the one or more wicking assemblies is further explained in detail in conjunction with FIG. 2.
[0029] Various layers of article 100, such as the one or more thermoelectric modules, the one or more heat sink layers and the one or more wicking assemblies may be attached to the one or more insulating layer using a fixing mechanism, such as fixing using an insulating glue, stitching, pressure fixing, fixing using screws, and so forth.
[0030] In an exemplary implementation, article 100 may be used for cooling the body of the wearer. For cooling the body of the wearer, a side of each thermoelectric module of the one or more thermoelectric modules which is positioned towards the body of the wearer is maintained in a cool condition. The cool side of a thermoelectric module forms contact with the body of the wearer through a slot in an insulating layer over which the thermoelectric module is fitted. Further, a side opposite to the cool side is maintained at a hot condition in each thermoelectric module. Heat generated from a hot side of a thermoelectric module of the one or more thermoelectric modules may be passed on to one or more heat sink layers coupled to the thermoelectric module. The one or more heat sink layers transfer the heat in a direction opposite to the body of the wearer. The heat present in the one or more heat sink layers may be dissipated or transferred using a heat absorbing liquid supplied to the one or more wicking assemblies. As the one or more wicking assemblies are positioned in contact with the one or more heat sink layers, the heat absorbing liquid is passed onto the one or more heat sink layers. As a result, dissipation of the heat is achieved by cooling the one or more heat sink layers by evaporation of the heat absorbing liquid. The one or more insulating layers also restrict transfer of the heat towards the body of the wearer. [0031] In another exemplary implementation, article 100 may be used for heating the body of the wearer. For heating the body of the wearer, a side of each thermoelectric module of the one or more thermoelectric modules which is positioned towards the body of the wearer is maintained in a hot condition. Further, a side opposite to the hot side is maintained in a cool condition in each thermoelectric module. In this case, the heat generated by the thermoelectric module is transferred to the body of the wearer and not to the one or more heat sink layers. Therefore, cooling of the one or more heat sink layers by utilizing the heat absorbing liquids in the one or more wicking assemblies, may not be performed in this implementation.
[0032] FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view layered structure of an article 200 for clothing in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. Article 200 includes one or more insulating layers, such as insulating layer 102. Each insulating layer of the one or more insulating layers includes one or more slots. For example, insulating layer 102 includes slot 104. The one or more slots hold one or more thermoelectric modules. For example, slot 104 present in insulating layer 102 holds thermoelectric module 106. The one or more thermoelectric modules provide heating or cooling to body of wearer of article 200. The one or more thermoelectric modules are coupled to one or more heat sink layers. For example, thermoelectric module 106 is coupled to a heat sink layer 108. The one or more insulating layers, the one or more slots, the one or more thermoelectric modules, and the one or more heat sink layers have been explained in detail in conjunction with FIG. 1.
[0033] As explained before in FIG. 1, heat transferred from the one or more heat sink layers is dissipated by cooling the one or more heat sink layers. Cooling of the one or more heat sink layers is achieved by placing one or more wicking assemblies in contact with the one or more heat sink layers. For example, wicking assembly 1 10 is placed over heat sink layer 108. Each wicking assembly of the one or more wicking assemblies includes a plurality of layers to hold the heat absorbing liquid and to pass the heat absorbing liquid to the one or more heat sink layers for cooling.
[0034] A wicking assembly, such as wicking assembly 1 10 includes a polymer mesh layer 202. Polymer mesh layer 202 is capable of receiving the heat absorbing liquid. The heat absorbing liquid may be received by polymer mesh layer 202 from a liquid supplying unit. In an embodiment, the liquid supplying unit may be configured external to article 200. Alternatively, the heat absorbing liquid may be received by polymer mesh layer 202 from a liquid supplying unit configured within article 200. Polymer mesh layer 202 may be composed of a flexible polymer material having high wicking characteristic, such as, polyester. Polymer mesh layer 202 supports efficient spreading of the heat absorbing liquid over other layers of wicking assembly 110. Further, polymer mesh layer 202 enables dissipation of evaporative vapors that may be generated in article 200.
[0035] Polymer mesh layer 202 at one side is placed in contact with a liquid supplying layer 204. Liquid supplying layer 204 stores the heat absorbing liquid supplied through polymer mesh layer 202. Liquid supplying layer 204 may be prepared from a soft fabric which is capable of absorbing and storing the heat absorbing liquid. Liquid supplying later 204 may be composed of, but not limited to cotton, 4DG fibers, candle wick, super absorbents, and sponges.
[0036] In an embodiment, liquid supplying layer 204 may be positioned on a heat sink layer, such that, a side of liquid supplying layer 204 opposite to the side in contact with polymer mesh layer 202, is in contact with the heat sink layer. By providing such an arrangement, the heat absorbing liquid stored in liquid supplying layer 204 is directly supplied to the heat sink layer. Therefore, cooling of the heat sink layer may be achieved by evaporation of the heat absorbing liquid.
[0037] In another embodiment, liquid supplying layer 204 may be positioned on a liquid holding layer 206, such that, a side of liquid supplying layer 204 opposite to the side in contact with polymer mesh layer 202, is in positioned towards liquid holding layer 206. In this arrangement, liquid supplying layer 204 supplies the heat absorbing liquid to liquid holding layer 206. Liquid holding layer 206 holds the heat absorbing liquid over a heat sink layer. Liquid holding layer 206 may be prepared from a thin polymer sheet which supports smooth and rapid absorption of the heat absorbing liquid, such as a microfilament polyester knit. [0038] Liquid holding layer 206 may further be coupled to a metallic mesh layer 208, such that, metallic mesh layer 208 is positioned in between liquid supplying layer 204 and liquid holding layer 206. Metallic mesh layer 208 is an open mesh which is prepared from metallic wires, such as aluminum. Metallic mesh layer 208 attaches liquid holding layer 206 on the heat sink layer by securing liquid holding layer 206 over the heat sink layer. The securing may be achieved by folding edges of metallic mesh layer 208 at sides of the heat sink layer. Metallic mesh layer 208 enables transfer of heat absorbing liquid from liquid holding layer 206 to the heat sink layer by providing efficient contact between liquid holding layer 208 and the heat sink layer. In addition, open mesh based metallic mesh layer 208 enables dissipation of evaporative vapors which may be generated in article 200. [0039] In an embodiment, the plurality of layers of wicking assembly 110 may be fixed together by a fixing mechanism, such as fixing by an adhesive, stitching, fixing by pressure, and so forth. Further, the plurality of layers may be treated with anti-bacterial treatment process in order to avoid any infections or foul odor. [0040] FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective view of various layers of the article 200 of clothing worn on a human body.300 in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. As shown in FIG. 3, article 200 (shown as a layered architecture) is used for heating or cooling chest of human body 300. It can be observed that insulating layer 102 comes in contact with the chest of human body 300. Insulating layer 102 may be a layer of an insulating sheet which can be worn on human body 300 as an apparel, further, a side of thermoelectric module 106 comes in contact with the chest of human body 300, through slot 104 present in insulating layer 102. The process of heating or cooling human body 300 using article 200 has been explained in detail in conjunction with FIG. 1 and FIG. 2. [0041] FIG. 4 illustrates a block diagram of a side view of an article 400 for clothing in accordance with another embodiment of the invention. Article 400 is used for heating body of a wearer of article 400. Examples of article 400 may include an apparel or a garment or an accessory such as, jackets, biking shorts, biking shoes, biking jerseys, exercise suits, sport bras, spandex pants, under garments, shorts, tops, shirts, gloves, shoes, boots, ski boots, roller skates, ice skates, roller blades, socks, wrist bands, heart monitors, wrist watches, uniforms, baseball caps, golf caps, visors, head bands, hats, glasses, sunglasses, headphones, medallions, pendants, jewelry, necklaces, bracelets, anklets, chemical suits, bio suits, space suits, space helmets, bullet-proof vests, fire protective suits, motorcycle leathers, goggles, hard hats, construction helmets, welding masks, motor racing helmets, motor cycle helmets, motor racing suits, motor racing under garments, bicycle helmets, sports helmet, skiing suits and under garments, riding helmets, equestrian riding helmets, fencing masks, fencing tunics, shin guards, knee pads, military equipment hats, neck wraps, and military helmets.
[0042] Article 400 includes one or more thermoelectric modules, such as a thermoelectric module 402. The one or more thermoelectric modules supplies heat to the body of the wearer based on the thermoelectric effect. In an embodiment, a thermal spreading layer may be provided between the one or more thermoelectric modules and the body of the wearer of article 100. This thermal spreading layer facilitates in uniformly heating the body of the wearer. Alternatively, a phase change layer may be provided between the one or more thermoelectric modules and the body of the wearer of article 100. The phase change layer facilitates in uniformly heating the body of the wearer. The phase change layer may composed of any phase change materials known in the art. As explained before in conjunction with FIG. 1, each thermoelectric module of the one or more thermoelectric modules forms a heating surface and a cooling surface on opposite sides of the thermoelectric module based on a current supply. In article 400, the current supplied to a thermoelectric module is maintained, such that, a heating surface is maintained at a side of the thermoelectric module which is towards the body of the wearer.
[0043] In an embodiment, the current is supplied to the one or more thermoelectric modules using a battery unit. For example, lithium based rechargeable batteries may be used as the battery unit. Other energy sources may also be used for supplying the current, such as solar cells, fuel cells and so forth. The battery unit may be placed external to article 400 or may be incorporated in article 400. The current supplied by the battery unit may be controlled for varying a range of temperature while heating the body of the wearer. The current supplied by the battery unit may be controlled based on a pre-set program or based on a user input. [0044] The one or more thermoelectric modules are coupled to one or more heat sink layers. For example, thermoelectric module 402 is connected to heat sink layer 404. A thermoelectric module is connected to a heat sink layer, such that, a heating surface of the thermoelectric module is in contact with the heat sink layer. Further, a side of the heat sink layer, opposite to the side in contact with the thermoelectric module, forms a contact with the body of the wearer.
[0045] A heat sink layer of the one or more heat sink layers is a thin sheet used for transferring heat generated from the one or more thermoelectric modules to the body of the wearer. Thickness and size of the heat sink layer is selected based on amount of heat to be transferred from the one or more thermoelectric module. However, the heat sink layer may have a minimum thickness so that thermal inertia or heat holding capacity of the heat sink layer is minimized. Consequently, heat generated from the one or more thermoelectric modules is not stored in the one of more heat sink layers and is immediately transferred to the body of the wearer. Further, minimum thickness imparts flexibility to the one or more heat sink layers.
[0046] The one or more heat sink layers may be prepared from thin plates of metal or non-metal materials, such as aluminum, magnesium, conductive alloys, carbon fibers, and composites. Further, thickness of the one or more heat sink layers may be maintained in a range of 0.5 mm to 10 mm. In order to couple the one or more heat sink layers with the one or more thermoelectric modules, a thermally conductive adhesive, such as a double sided tape, an epoxy cement, a highly thermally conductive heat film adhesive, or the like, may be used. In an embodiment, a side of a heat sink layer in contact with the body of the wearer may be lined with a conductive fabric to provide softness to article 400.
[0047] The one or more thermoelectric modules and the one or more heat sink layers are held in article 400 by utilizing a padding 406. Padding 406 may include one or more slots for holding the one or more .thermoelectric modules and" the one or more heat sink layers. Padding 406 is generally prepared from soft and flexible material, so that article 400 takes contour of the body of the wearer. In an embodiment, padding 406 may be prepared from a soft insulating material, such as neoprene, Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (EVA) and foam. In another embodiment, padding 406 may be prepared from a heat absorbing fabric material which absorbs the heat from the one or more heat sink layers and provides the heat to the body of the wearer of article 400.
[0048] Various embodiments of the invention disclose an article for clothing which efficiently provides heating or cooling to body of a wearer by incorporating one or more thermoelectric modules. As the thermoelectric modules present in the article provide both heating and cooling function, the same article may be used for the purpose of heating and cooling the body of the wearer. The article may heat or cool body of a wearer of the article of clothing based on a user input. Further, the article enables the users to select a required temperature while heating or cooling the body of the wearer. As the article incorporates heat sink layers with thin sheets and wicking assemblies, an efficient mechanism for dissipation of unrequited heat generated by the thermoelectric modules by evaporation is achieved. Further, usage of insulating layer enables insulation of the body of the wearer by transmission of the unrequited heat. Therefore, unrequited heat is not transmitted to the body of the wearer. Further, various layers of the article are composed of materials that are soft and flexible thereby enabling the article to be easily worn by a wearer by accommodating contours of the body. In addition, layered arrangement of various soft and flexible materials in the article results in a light weight article of clothing which is portable and easy to use. The article may be used in various applications, such as medical usage, sports purposes, and fitness purposes.
[0049] Those skilled in the art will realize that the above recognized advantages and other advantages described herein are merely exemplary and are not meant to be a complete rendering of all of the advantages of the various embodiments of the present invention.
[0050] In the foregoing specification, specific embodiments of the present invention have been described. However, one of ordinary skill in the art appreciates that various modifications and changes can be made without departing from the scope of the present invention as set forth in the claims below. Accordingly, the specification and figures are to be regarded in an illustrative rather than a restrictive sense, and all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the present invention. The benefits, advantages, solutions to problems, and any element(s) that may cause any benefit, advantage, or solution to occur or become more pronounced are not to be construed as a critical required, or essential features or elements of any or all the claims. The present invention is defined solely by the appended claims including any amendments made during the pendency of this application and . all equivalents of those claims as issued.

Claims

What is claimed is: 1. An article of clothing for at least one of heating and cooling body of a wearer of the article, the article comprising:
at least one insulating layer for providing padding to the article, wherein each insulating layer of the at least one insulating layer comprises at least one slot;
at least one thermoelectric module for at least one of heating and cooling the body of the wearer, wherein a thermoelectric module of the at least one thermoelectric module is coupled to a slot of the at least one slot of an insulating layer of the at least one insulating layer;
at least one heat sink layer, wherein each heat sink layer of the at least one heat sink layer is thermally coupled to the at least one thermoelectric module for exchanging heat with the at least one thermoelectric module, wherein a heat sink layer of the at least one heat sink layer is a thin sheet; and
at least one wicking assembly for cooling a heat sink layer of the at least one heat sink layer, wherein each wicking assembly of the at least one wicking assembly holds a heat absorbing liquid for absorbing heat from the heat sink layer by evaporation.
2. The article of clothing of claim 1, wherein an insulating layer of the at least one
insulating layer composed of an insulating material.
The article of clothing of claim 1, wherein each insulating layer of the at least one insulating layer is capable of providing insulation to the body of the wearer from external heat transferred from the at least one heat sink layer.
The article of clothing of claim 1, wherein a thermoelectric module of the at least one thermoelectric module is coupled to the slot of the at least one slot of the insulating layer of the at least one insulating layer using a fixing mechanism.
5. The article of clothing of claim 1, wherein a thermoelectric module of the at least one thermoelectric module provides cooling by configuring a side of the thermoelectric module towards the body of the wearer as a cooling surface, wherein the
thermoelectric module of the at least one thermoelectric module comprises a heating surface and the cooling surface, wherein the heating surface is positioned opposite to the cooling surface.
6. The article of clothing of claim 5 further comprising at least one of a thermal
spreading layer and a phase change layer for uniformly cooling the body of the wearer, wherein at least one of the thermal spreading layer and the phase change layer is placed on a thermoelectric module of the at least one thermoelectric module.
7. The article of clothing of claim 1, wherein a thermoelectric module of the at least one thermoelectric module provides heating by configuring a side of the thermoelectric module towards the body of the wearer as a heating surface, wherein the
thermoelectric module of the at least one thermoelectric module comprises the heating surface and a cooling surface, wherein the heating surface is positioned opposite to the cooling surface.
8. The article of clothing of claim 7 further comprising at least one of a thermal
spreading layer and a phase change layer for uniformly heating the body of the wearer, wherein at least one of the thermal spreading layer and the phase change layer is placed on a thermoelectric module of the at least one thermoelectric module.
9. The article of clothing of claim 1 , wherein a thermoelectric module of the at least one thermoelectric module is configured to provide at least one of heating and cooling based on one of a pre-set program and a user input.
10. The article of clothing of claim 1, wherein a heat sink layer of the at least one heat sink layer is at least one of an aluminum sheet and a non-metal sheet.
1 1. The article of clothing of claim 1, wherein a side of a heat sink layer of the at least one heat sink layer is coupled to the at least one thermoelectric module using a fixing mechanism.
12. The article of clothing of claim 1, wherein a wicking assembly of the at least one wicking assembly comprises:
a polymer mesh layer capable of receiving the heat absorbing liquid; and a liquid supplying layer for storing the heat absorbing liquid received from the polymer mesh layer, wherein the liquid supplying layer is positioned on a side of the polymer mesh layer.
13. The article of clothing of claim 12, wherein the liquid supplying layer is positioned on a heat sink layer of the at least one heat sink layer whereby a side of the liquid supplying layer opposite to the side contacting the polymer mesh layer is in contact with the heat sink layer.
14. The article of clothing of claim 12, wherein the liquid supplying layer is a cotton layer.
15. The article of clothing of claim 12, wherein the wicking assembly of the at least one wicking assembly further comprises:
a liquid holding layer for receiving the heat absorbing liquid from the liquid supplying layer, wherein the liquid holding layer is positioned on the liquid supplying layer whereby a side of the liquid supplying layer opposite to the side contacting the polymer mesh layer is positioned towards the liquid holding layer; and
a metallic mesh layer for securing the liquid holding layer on a heat sink layer of the at least one heat sink layer, wherein the metallic mesh layer is positioned in between the liquid holding layer and the liquid supplying layer.
16. The article of clothing of claim 15, wherein the liquid holding layer is a polyester knit layer.
17. The article of clothing of claim 15, wherein the metallic mesh layer is an aluminum mesh layer.
18. The article of clothing of claim 1, wherein each heat sink layer of the at least one heat sink layer and each wicking assembly of the at least one wicking assembly is coupled to the insulating layer using a fixing mechanism.
19. An article of clothing for heating body of a wearer of the article, the article
comprising:
at least one thermoelectric module for providing heat, wherein each
thermoelectric module of the at least one thermoelectric module comprises a heating surface and a cooling surface, wherein the heating surface is positioned opposite to the cooling surface;
at least one heat sink layer thermally coupled to the heating surface of each thermoelectric module of the at least one thermoelectric layer, wherein a heat sink layer of the at least one heat sink layer is a thin sheet, wherein the at least one heat sink layer is further coupled to the body of the wearer for transferring the heat; and a padding for holding the at least one thermoelectric module layer and the at least one heat sink layer.
20. The article of clothing of claim 19, wherein a heat sink layer of the at least one heat sink layer is positioned on the body of the wearer whereby a side of the heat sink layer opposite to the side coupled to a heating surface of a thermoelectric module of the at least one thermoelectric module is in contact with the body of the wearer.
The article of clothing of claim 19, wherein a heat sink layer of the at least one heat sink layer is one of an aluminum sheet and a non-metal sheet.
PCT/IN2011/000438 2010-10-19 2011-07-01 Article of clothing for heating or cooling body of wearer WO2012052999A1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
IN3092CH2010 2010-10-19
IN3092/CHE/2010 2010-10-19

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Cited By (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
CN105533840A (en) * 2016-01-08 2016-05-04 长沙鹏跃五洋信息科技有限公司 Cooling vest
EP3065583A4 (en) * 2013-11-14 2017-06-21 Icetron Technologies Ltd. Body temperature control system
WO2021262464A1 (en) * 2020-06-23 2021-12-30 Medtronic, Inc. Carrying case for controller of patients with vads

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WO2008103742A2 (en) * 2007-02-23 2008-08-28 Dhama Apparel Innovations Private Ltd Apparel with heating and cooling capabilities
DE102008058744A1 (en) * 2008-11-24 2010-05-27 Chen, Shu-Lien, Dadu Stickable electrical heating device, has strip heater formed by outer bag and inner heating disk, where rear section of bag is provided with connecting elements at outer side, and strip heater sticks to piece of clothing using elements

Patent Citations (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO2008103742A2 (en) * 2007-02-23 2008-08-28 Dhama Apparel Innovations Private Ltd Apparel with heating and cooling capabilities
DE102008058744A1 (en) * 2008-11-24 2010-05-27 Chen, Shu-Lien, Dadu Stickable electrical heating device, has strip heater formed by outer bag and inner heating disk, where rear section of bag is provided with connecting elements at outer side, and strip heater sticks to piece of clothing using elements

Cited By (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP3065583A4 (en) * 2013-11-14 2017-06-21 Icetron Technologies Ltd. Body temperature control system
CN105533840A (en) * 2016-01-08 2016-05-04 长沙鹏跃五洋信息科技有限公司 Cooling vest
WO2021262464A1 (en) * 2020-06-23 2021-12-30 Medtronic, Inc. Carrying case for controller of patients with vads

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