JP7489080B2 - Localized Cooling System - Google Patents

Description

The present embodiment relates to a local cooling system .

Technologies have been proposed for localized heating and cooling that use clothing equipped with a device that circulates cooled or heated fluid through tubes to cool or warm the upper half of the body.

Utility Model Registration No. 3186180

Conventional local heating and cooling technologies use a pump to circulate fluid to cool or heat the body, but the fluid is circulated regardless of body temperature. This creates the problem that the body can easily become overcooled or overheated when used for long periods of time.

The present embodiment provides a local air conditioning system that can improve comfort by preventing the body from being cooled too much .

The local heating and cooling system according to the first aspect includes a heat source unit having a cold or hot heat source, a flexible tube that circulates a liquid medium heated or cooled by the heat source unit, a liquid medium delivery unit that delivers the liquid medium to the flexible tube, a local contact unit where a part of the flexible tube is disposed and brought into contact with a local part of the body, a first temperature sensor that detects body temperature, and a control unit that controls the operation of the liquid medium delivery unit based on the detection result of the first temperature sensor.

The local heating and cooling system according to the second aspect is the first aspect, and is provided with a second temperature sensor that detects the temperature of at least one of the outside air or the liquid medium, and the control unit controls the drive voltage of the electric pump constituting the liquid medium delivery unit based on the detection result of the first temperature sensor and the detection result of the second temperature sensor, or controls the electric pump to be driven intermittently.

The local heating and cooling system according to the third aspect is the first or second aspect, in which the heat source unit includes a sealable insulated container that stores the liquid medium, and the discharge and delivery ends of the flexible tube connected to the liquid medium delivery unit are immersed in the liquid medium in the insulated container, and the liquid medium is circulated via the flexible tube.

In the fourth aspect of the local heating and cooling system, in the first or second aspect, the heat source unit includes a sealable insulated container that contains a heat medium for heat exchange, and a portion of the flexible tube connected to the liquid medium delivery unit is immersed in the heat medium in the insulated container, heat exchange is performed between the heat medium and the liquid medium, and the liquid medium after heat exchange is circulated via the flexible tube.

The fifth aspect of the local air conditioning system is the third or fourth aspect, in which the insulated container comprises a housing, an insulating material arranged along the inner wall of the housing, a removable ice pack arranged along the inner wall of the insulating material, and the heat source unit arranged in a removable manner in the space formed between the ice packs.

The sixth aspect of the local air conditioning system is any one of the first to fifth aspects, in which the heat source unit includes a removable cartridge that includes the cold heat source or the hot heat source, and a container that houses the cartridge and exchanges heat between the liquid medium flowing through the flexible tube and the cartridge.

The seventh aspect of the local heating and cooling system is the sixth aspect, in which the flexible tube disposed within the container comprises a coiled heat transfer tube that surrounds the cartridge.

The eighth aspect of the local heating and cooling system is the sixth or seventh aspect, in which the cartridge is provided with a hand warmer or ice pack as the heat source.

The ninth aspect of the local heating and cooling system is the sixth or seventh aspect, in which the cartridge contains a heated or cooled bottled beverage or canned beverage.

The local heating and cooling system according to the tenth aspect is any one of the first to ninth aspects, in which the local contact portion is provided with a belt-like attachment that is adapted to the local area of the body that is to be contacted.

The local heating and cooling system according to the eleventh aspect is any one of the first to tenth aspects, in which the local body part that is in contact with the local contact part includes at least one or more parts selected from the group consisting of the head, the neck, the arms, the armpits, and the wrists.

The local heating and cooling system according to the twelfth aspect is any one of the third to eleventh aspects, in which at least a portion of the flexible tube exposed from the insulating container is covered with a three-dimensional mesh fabric.

The local heating and cooling system according to the thirteenth aspect is the twelfth aspect, in which the fabric is provided with a heater for preventing condensation.

The local heating and cooling system according to the fourteenth aspect is any one of the first to thirteenth aspects, in which the local contact part is a sheet-like pillow cover, and the flexible tube is arranged in a loop shape inside the pillow cover.

The local heating and cooling system according to the fifteenth aspect is the fourteenth aspect, in which the flexible tube is branched and arranged as multiple loops within the pillowcase.

In the local air conditioning system according to the sixteenth aspect, in the first or second aspect, the heat source is composed of a cooling device, and the cooling device is equipped with a cooling unit consisting of a thermoelectric conversion element that generates a heat absorption effect on one side and a heat generation effect on the other side when current is applied, a cooling heat sink in contact with the heat absorption surface of the thermoelectric conversion element, a flow path module that abuts against the cooling heat sink and has a flow path through which the liquid medium flows to perform heat exchange, a heat dissipation heat sink that dissipates heat from the heat generation surface of the thermoelectric conversion element, and an electric fan that cools the heat dissipation heat sink.

The local heating and cooling system according to the seventeenth aspect is the sixteenth aspect, in which the inside of the housing of the cooling device is provided with a first compartment that houses the cooling unit, a second compartment that houses a tank that stores the liquid medium and an electric pump that delivers the liquid medium, and a third compartment that houses a power supply unit that supplies power to the cooling unit, and the first compartment, the second compartment, and the third compartment are separated by a partition wall.

The local heating and cooling system according to the eighteenth aspect is the sixteenth or seventeenth aspect, and is provided with a tube crush detection means for detecting a crushed state of the flexible tube, and the control unit controls the tube crush detection means to issue an alert when the tube crush detection means detects a crushed state of the flexible tube.

The local heating and cooling system according to the nineteenth aspect is any one of the sixteenth to eighteenth aspects, and is provided with a temperature and humidity sensor that detects the temperature and humidity of the outside air, and the control unit controls the operation of the liquid medium delivery unit based on the detection results of the temperature and humidity sensor.

The local heating and cooling system according to the twentieth aspect is any one of the sixteenth to nineteenth aspects, and is provided with a tilt sensor that detects the tilt of the cooling device, and the control unit issues an alert based on the detection result of the tilt sensor and controls the liquid medium delivery unit to stop operation.

The local air conditioning method according to the twenty-first aspect includes a step of detecting body temperature with a first temperature sensor, a step of controlling the operation of the liquid medium delivery unit based on the detected body temperature, and a step of circulating the liquid medium heated or cooled by the heat source unit through a flexible tube by the operation of the liquid medium delivery unit, thereby cooling or heating the local contact part that is in contact with the local part of the body.

The local air conditioning method according to the twenty-second aspect is the twenty-first aspect, and includes the steps of detecting body temperature with a first temperature sensor, detecting outside air temperature with a second temperature sensor, controlling the operation of the liquid medium delivery unit based on the difference between the detected body temperature and the outside air temperature, and circulating the liquid medium heated or cooled by the heat source unit through a flexible tube by the operation of the liquid medium delivery unit, thereby cooling or heating the local contact part that comes into contact with the local part of the body.

The local heating and cooling method according to the twenty-third aspect is the twenty-second aspect, in which the step of controlling the operation of the liquid medium delivery unit includes a step of determining whether the difference between the detected body temperature and the outside air temperature is equal to or greater than a preset threshold, and a step of controlling the flow rate of the liquid medium by the liquid medium delivery unit according to the determination result.

The local heating and cooling method according to the twenty-fourth aspect is the twenty-second aspect, and includes a step of determining whether the difference between the detected body temperature and the outside air temperature is less than a preset threshold, and a step of controlling the liquid medium delivery unit to stop when it is determined that the difference is less than the threshold.

According to this embodiment, it is possible to provide a local cooling system that can improve comfort by preventing the body from being cooled too much .

1 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of a local heating and cooling system according to an embodiment to which the present technology is applied. 1 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration example of a local heating and cooling system according to an embodiment to which the present technology is applied; 1 is an explanatory diagram showing a specific example of a local heating and cooling system according to an embodiment to which the present technology is applied. FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing another specific example of a local heating and cooling system according to an embodiment to which the present technology is applied. 4 is a flowchart showing an example of a processing procedure of a cooling and heating control process executed in a local cooling and heating system according to an embodiment to which the present technology is applied. 1 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration example of a local heating and cooling system according to an embodiment to which the present technology is applied; 1 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration example of a local heating and cooling system according to an embodiment to which the present technology is applied; 1 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration example of a local heating and cooling system according to an embodiment to which the present technology is applied; FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view showing a heat-insulating container applied to another example of a local heating and cooling system according to an embodiment of the present technology. FIG. 13 is a top view showing a heat-insulating container applied to another example of a local heating and cooling system according to an embodiment to which the present technology is applied. FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing a pillow cover according to another example of a local heating and cooling system according to an embodiment to which the present technology is applied. 2 is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA showing a pillow cover according to another example of a local heating and cooling system to which the present technology is applied. FIG. 13 is a side view showing a use state of a pillow cover according to another example of a local heating and cooling system according to an embodiment to which the present technology is applied. FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view showing a use state of a pillow cover according to another example of a local heating and cooling system according to an embodiment of the present technology. FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing a pillow cover according to another example of a local heating and cooling system according to an embodiment to which the present technology is applied. FIG. 5 is a BB cross-sectional view showing a pillow cover according to another example of a local heating and cooling system according to an embodiment of the present technology. FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing a water pillow sheet according to another example of a local heating and cooling system according to an embodiment to which the present technology is applied. 13 is a graph showing a change in temperature of cooling water circulating through a pillow cover or a water pillow sheet in another example of a local heating and cooling system according to an embodiment of the present technology. 1 is an explanatory diagram of a condensation prevention structure applied to a local heating and cooling system according to an embodiment to which the present technology is applied. 1 is an external view of a condensation prevention structure applied to a local heating and cooling system according to an embodiment to which the present technology is applied. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a local heating and cooling system according to an embodiment to which the present technology is applied. 1 is a perspective view showing a schematic configuration of a cooling device applied to a local heating and cooling system according to an embodiment to which the present technology is applied. 1 is a plan view showing a schematic configuration of a cooling device applied to a local heating and cooling system according to an embodiment to which the present technology is applied. 1 is an exploded perspective view showing a configuration of a cooling unit of a cooling device applied to a local heating and cooling system according to an embodiment to which the present technology is applied. 1 is a cross-sectional view showing a configuration of a cooling unit of a cooling device applied to a local heating and cooling system according to an embodiment of the present technology. 1 is a cross-sectional view showing an internal configuration of a housing of a cooling device applied to a local heating and cooling system according to an embodiment of the present technology. 1 is a cross-sectional view showing an internal configuration of a cooling device applied to a local heating and cooling system according to an embodiment of the present technology. 1 is a schematic explanatory diagram showing a flow of water in a cooling device applied to a local heating and cooling system according to an embodiment to which the present technology is applied.

Next, an embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following description of the drawings, the same or similar parts are denoted by the same or similar reference numerals.

The embodiments shown below are merely examples of devices and methods for embodying the technical ideas, and do not specify the materials, shapes, structures, arrangements, etc. of the components as described below. Various modifications can be made to these embodiments within the scope of the claims.

With reference to Figures 1 to 5, a local heating and cooling system S1a according to one embodiment of the present technology will be described.

[Functional configuration of local heating and cooling system]
FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the local heating and cooling system S1a.

As shown in FIG. 1, the local heating and cooling system S1a includes a heat source unit 10 having a cold or hot heat source, a flexible tube 100 composed of a silicone tube or the like that circulates the liquid medium 200 heated or cooled by the heat source unit 10, a liquid medium delivery unit 20 composed of an electric pump that delivers the liquid medium 200 to the flexible tube 100, a local contact unit 30 where a part of the flexible tube 100 is arranged and is brought into contact with a local part of the body such as the nape of the neck, a first temperature sensor SN1 that detects body temperature, and a control unit 40 composed of a microcomputer or the like that controls the operation of the electric pump 20 based on the detection result of the first temperature sensor SN1.

The local heating and cooling system S1a further includes a second temperature sensor SN2 that detects the outside air temperature, and the control unit 40 controls the operation of the electric pump 20 by taking into account the detection result of the second temperature sensor SN2 (the temperature of the outside air or the liquid medium 200) in addition to the detection result of the first temperature sensor SN1 (body temperature). More specifically, the drive voltage of the electric pump 20 can be controlled or the electric pump 20 can be controlled to be driven intermittently based on the detection result of the first temperature sensor SN1 and the detection result of the second temperature sensor SN2.

It also includes a power source 50 consisting of a battery such as a lithium-ion battery that supplies power to the electric pump 20 and the control unit 40.

As shown in FIG. 1, each component except for the local contact portion 30 can be housed in a resin case or the like to form the device main body 500. The first temperature sensor SN1 and the second temperature sensor SN2 may be provided on the local contact portion 30 side.

Although not shown in the figure, the device body 500 may be provided with a main switch for turning the local heating and cooling system S1a on and off, and a slide or dial-type volume for manually adjusting the flow rate of the liquid medium 200 by the electric pump 20.

When the electric pump 20 is operated under the control of the control unit 40, the liquid medium 200 in the flexible tube 100 is circulated in the direction D1.

As a result, the liquid medium 200 is cooled or heated directly or indirectly by the cold or hot heat source provided in the heat source unit 10 and is sequentially supplied to the local contact unit 30.

Therefore, by keeping the local contact portion 30 in contact with a local part of the body, including one of the neck, arm, armpit, or wrist, the body can be locally cooled or warmed.

In the local heating and cooling system S1a, the operation of the electric pump 20 is controlled based on the body temperature detected by the first temperature sensor SN1 and the outside air temperature detected by the second temperature sensor SN2, so that overcooling or overheating of the body can be prevented, improving comfort.

The second temperature sensor SN2 is not essential, and the detection of the outside air temperature may be omitted. In this case, the operation of the electric pump 20 is controlled based on the body temperature detected by the first temperature sensor SN1.

[Example of local heating and cooling system configuration]
With reference to FIG. 2, a configuration example of a local heating and cooling system S1a according to an embodiment to which the present technology is applied will be described.

Figure 2 is a diagram showing an example of the general configuration of a local heating and cooling system S1a.

In the configuration example shown in FIG. 2, the heat source unit 10 includes an insulated container 600 (a container having a configuration similar to that of a thermos bottle) that stores the liquid medium 200 and can be sealed with a lid 601.

The discharge and delivery ends 101A, 101B of the flexible tube 100 connected to the electric pump 20 constituting the liquid medium delivery section are immersed in the liquid medium 200 in the insulated container 600.

The liquid medium 200 stored in the insulating container 600 can be, for example, chilled water or hot water. Such liquid medium 200 is maintained in a cold or warm state for a relatively long period of time due to the heat retention function of the insulating container 600.

In the configuration example shown in FIG. 2, a portion 100a of the flexible tube is arranged in a serpentine state on the local contact portion 30, which is formed, for example, in a sheet shape that can be easily attached to the local area of the body. This ensures a large area for heat exchange by the liquid medium 200 flowing through the portion 100a of the flexible tube in the local area of the body, and can enhance the cooling or heating effect.

The local contact portion 30 formed in a sheet or the like can be fixed to local areas h1 to h3 of the body, such as the neck, by a belt-like attachment that is detachably configured using, for example, a hook-and-loop fastener (see Figures 3 and 4).

The electric pump 20 is operated under the control of the control unit 40, and the liquid medium 200 is circulated in the direction D1 through the flexible tube 100. As a result, the liquid medium 200 stored in the insulating container 600 is sequentially supplied to a portion 100a of the flexible tube installed in the local contact unit 30, thereby locally cooling or warming the body. Details of the control procedure of the electric pump 20 based on the body temperature detected by the first temperature sensor SN1 and the outside air temperature detected by the second temperature sensor SN2 will be described later.

[Example of local heating and cooling system]
A specific example of the local heating and cooling system S1a will be described with reference to Figs.

Figure 3 is an explanatory diagram showing a specific example of a local heating and cooling system S1a, and Figure 4 is an explanatory diagram showing another specific example.

In the specific example shown in FIG. 3, the device main body 500, which is made up of the components shown in FIG. 1, is housed in a waist bag (waist pouch) type case 700 that is worn around the waist of the user H.

A local contact part 30 formed in a sheet shape or the like is provided at the end of a flexible tube 100, which is made of a silicone tube or the like and extends from the device main body 500. The local contact part 30 is fixed to the neck part h1, which is one of the local parts of the body, by a belt-like attachment or the like that is configured to be detachable by, for example, a hook-and-loop fastener or the like.

The local contact unit 30 can be worn on the wrist h2, armpit h3, arm h4, etc. by changing the length and shape of a belt-like attachment or the like.

In addition, if it is desired to attach the local contact portion 30 to two or more locations, such as both wrists or both arms, the flexible tube 100 extending from the device main body 500 may be configured to branch into two or more.

When the device body 500 of the local heating and cooling system S1a is configured as a clothing type, the flexible tube 100 may be configured to contact a local part of the body such as the chest, abdomen, or back.

In addition, in the specific example shown in FIG. 3, a first temperature sensor SN1 that detects body temperature is provided on the side (inside) of the local contact part 30 that comes into contact with the body, and a second temperature sensor SN2 that detects the outside air temperature is provided on the outside of the local contact part 30.

In the specific example shown in FIG. 4, the device main body 500, which is made up of the components shown in FIG. 1, is housed in a backpack (knapsack) type case 800 carried by a user H. The other configuration is the same as the specific example shown in FIG. 3.

The configuration shown in Figures 3 and 4 makes the local heating and cooling system S1a easy to carry, and allows for easy local cooling or heating when active outdoors, etc.

[Heating and cooling control processing]
Next, an example of a processing procedure of the cooling and heating control processing executed in the local cooling and heating system S1a will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

When the local heating and cooling system S1a is activated, first in step S10, the first temperature sensor SN1 detects the user's body temperature, and then the process proceeds to step S11.

In step S11, the outside air temperature is detected by the second temperature sensor SN2 and the process proceeds to step S12.

In step S12, it is determined whether the difference between the "body temperature" obtained in step S10 and the "outside temperature" obtained in step S11 is equal to or greater than a preset threshold value.

If the result of the determination is "No", the process proceeds to step S13, where the electric pump 20 is controlled to have power to pump the liquid medium 200 at a normal flow rate, and the process proceeds to step S15.

On the other hand, if the determination result is "Yes", the electric pump 20 is controlled to supply power that will pump the liquid medium 200 at a flow rate higher than normal, and the process proceeds to step S15.

In step S15, it is determined whether the difference between the "body temperature" and the "outside temperature" is less than the threshold value.

If the result of the determination is "No", the process returns to step S14 and the flow rate is maintained at a higher level than normal.

This allows the flow rate of the liquid medium 200 to be kept increased when cooling or heating is required continuously in accordance with the user's body temperature or the outside temperature.

On the other hand, if the determination result is "Yes", in step S16, the operation of the electric pump 20 is stopped, and then the process returns to step S10 and the series of processes is repeated.

This allows the electric pump 20 to be stopped when cooling or heating is not required, depending on the user's body temperature and the outside air temperature, preventing the body from becoming too cold or too warm. Also, by temporarily stopping the electric pump 20, it is possible to reduce consumption of the battery 50 as a power source and increase the operating time of the entire system.

With reference to Figure 6, we will explain an example configuration of a local heating and cooling system S1b according to one embodiment of the present technology.

The basic configuration of the local heating and cooling system S1b is similar to that of the local heating and cooling system S1a, so the same components are given the same reference symbols as the local heating and cooling system S1a and redundant explanations are omitted.

As shown in FIG. 6, the local heating and cooling system S1b has a heat source unit 10 that contains a heat medium 650 for heat exchange and has an insulated container 600 (a container having a structure similar to a thermos bottle) that can be sealed by a lid unit 601.

The heat exchange medium 650 can be chilled water, hot water, or general coolant.

Then, a portion 100b of the flexible tube 100 connected to the electric pump 20 as the liquid medium delivery section is immersed in the heat medium 650 in the insulated container 600.

As shown in FIG. 6, the part 100b of the flexible tube 100 may include a coiled heat transfer tube (e.g., an aluminum heat transfer tube). This allows the contact area with the heat medium 650 for heat exchange to be increased, improving the efficiency of heat exchange with the heat medium 650.

The local heating and cooling system S1b configured in this way allows heat exchange between the heat medium 650 and the liquid medium 200, and by circulating the liquid medium 200 after heat exchange through the flexible tube 100, it is possible to cool or warm local areas of the body.

Note that the local heating and cooling system S1b can have the same specific configuration as the local heating and cooling system S1a (see Figures 3 and 4).

In addition, like the local heating and cooling system S1a, the local heating and cooling system S1b can apply the heating and cooling control process shown in the flowchart of Figure 5 to appropriately control the electric pump 20 in accordance with the body temperature and the outside air temperature.

With reference to Figure 7, we will explain an example configuration of a local heating and cooling system S1c according to one embodiment of the present technology.

The basic configuration of the local heating and cooling system S1c is similar to that of the local heating and cooling system S1a, so the same components are given the same reference symbols as the local heating and cooling system S1a and redundant explanations are omitted.

As shown in FIG. 7, the local air conditioning system S1c includes a removable cartridge 810 equipped with a cold or hot heat source, and a container for housing the cartridge 810 and for performing heat exchange between the liquid medium 200 flowing through the flexible tube 100 and the cartridge 810.

Here, the cartridge 810 is formed into a cylindrical shape with a bottom, using a heat transfer material such as aluminum. Inside such a cylindrical cartridge 810, for example, an ice pack as a cold source or a warmer (such as a disposable warmer) as a warm source is stored.

Also, as shown in FIG. 7, the flexible tube 100c disposed within the container 850 may include a coiled heat transfer tube (e.g., an aluminum heat transfer tube) disposed so as to surround the cartridge 810.

The container 850 may be an insulated container, similar to the local air conditioning system S1a. In that case, the temperature of the cartridge 810 can be maintained for a relatively long period of time.

In addition, by preparing multiple cartridges 810 and setting an ice pack as a cold source or a hand warmer as a heat source in each cartridge 810, the cartridges 810 can be replaced at the appropriate time to continue cooling or heating.

With the local heating and cooling system S1c configured in this way, heat exchange can be performed between the cartridge 810 and the liquid medium 200, and the liquid medium 200 after heat exchange can be circulated through the flexible tube 100 to cool or warm local areas of the body.

The local heating and cooling system S1c can have the same specific configuration as the local heating and cooling system S1a (see Figures 3 and 4).

In addition, like the local heating and cooling system S1a, the local heating and cooling system S1c can appropriately control the electric pump 20 according to the body temperature and the outside air temperature by applying the heating and cooling control process shown in the flowchart of Figure 5.

With reference to Figure 8, we will explain an example configuration of a local heating and cooling system S1d according to one embodiment of the present technology.

The basic configuration of the local heating and cooling system S1d is similar to that of the local heating and cooling system S1a, so the same components are given the same reference symbols as the local heating and cooling system S1a and redundant explanations are omitted.

As shown in FIG. 8, the local heating and cooling system S1d uses a heated or cooled PET bottled beverage (or canned beverage) 820 as a cold or hot source instead of the cartridge 810 in the local heating and cooling system S1c.

Also, as shown in FIG. 8, the flexible tube 100c arranged in the container 850 may include a coiled heat transfer tube (e.g., an aluminum heat transfer tube) arranged to surround the PET bottle beverage (or canned beverage) 820.

The container 850 may be an insulated container, similar to the local air conditioning system S1a. In that case, it is possible to maintain the temperature of the bottled beverage (or canned beverage) 820 for a relatively long period of time.

Heated or cooled bottled drinks (or canned drinks) 820, etc. can be easily purchased from retail stores, etc., and can be replaced at the appropriate time to continue cooling or heating.

The local air conditioning system S1d configured in this way allows heat exchange between the bottled beverage (or canned beverage) 820 and the liquid medium 200, and by circulating the liquid medium 200 after heat exchange through the flexible tube 100, it is possible to cool or warm local areas of the body.

Note that the local heating and cooling system S1d can have the same specific configuration as the local heating and cooling system S1a (see Figures 3 and 4).

In addition, like the local heating and cooling system S1a, the local heating and cooling system S1d can appropriately control the electric pump 20 according to the body temperature and the outside air temperature by applying the heating and cooling control process shown in the flowchart of Figure 5.

[Another Example of Local Heating and Cooling System (Part 1)]
A configuration example of a local heating and cooling system S2 according to an embodiment to which the present technology is applied will be described with reference to FIGS.

Here, FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view showing an insulated container 901 applied to another example of a local heating and cooling system S2 according to an embodiment of the present technology, and FIG. 10 is a top view showing the insulated container 901.

The heat-insulating container 901 that constitutes the heat source includes a case body (housing) 901a molded from resin or the like, and a lid 901b that is supported so as to be freely opened and closed in the direction D10 by a hinge 902 provided on the upper side of the case body 901a.

Inside the case body 901a, plate-shaped insulation material 903 made of polystyrene foam or the like is provided along the inner wall.

In addition, ice packs 904 are detachably arranged along the inner wall of the heat insulating material 903. The ice packs 904 can be, for example, resin bags or containers filled with water-absorbent polymers, and are attached to the case body 901a after being cooled in a refrigerator.

A container 610 for storing a liquid medium (cooling water) 200 as a heat source 10 is detachably arranged in the space formed between the ice packs 904.

As a result, as shown in FIG. 10, the container 610 is sandwiched between the insulating material 903 and the ice pack 904, preventing heat from entering from the outside and efficiently cooling the cooling water 200. Note that although the container 610 is made of resin, it may also be made of aluminum, copper, or the like to improve heat transfer with the ice pack 904.

The upper opening of the container 610 is provided with a lid 601 through which a flexible tube 100 (100A, 100B) made of a silicone tube or the like is inserted, through which the cooled cooling water 200 is circulated. The flexible tube 100 (100A, 100B) may also be configured to be inserted through the case body 901a.

In the configuration example shown in FIG. 9, similar to the configuration shown in FIG. 2, the ends of the flexible tubes 100 (100A, 100B) are immersed in cooling water 200. Then, as shown in FIG. 2, by the operation of the electric pump P, the cooling water 200 sucked from the end of the flexible tube 100A flows in the direction D1a, circulates through the local contact portion 30, flows in the direction D1b, and is returned to the inside of the container 610 from the end of the flexible tube 100B.

In addition, instead of the configuration shown in FIG. 9, the flexible tube 100 in the container 610 may be configured such that a portion of the flexible tube 100 is formed into a coil shape and immersed in the cooling water 200 as shown in FIG. 6 above.

In addition, temperature sensors SN2a and SN2b are arranged near the flexible tube 100 (100A, 100B) outside the insulating container 901. This makes it possible to measure the temperature T1 of the cooling water 200 immediately after it leaves the insulating container 901, and the temperature T2 of the cooling water 200 that has circulated through the local contact portion 30 and returned.

The operation of the electric pump P can then be controlled based on the average value of temperatures T1 and T2, or the difference between temperatures T1 and T2.

Specifically, the temperature of the cooling water 200 flowing through the flexible tube 100 can be adjusted by intermittently operating the electric pump P or by changing the drive voltage of the electric pump P based on the average value of the temperatures T1 and T2, or the difference between the temperatures T1 and T2.

Next, with reference to Figures 11 to 17, we will explain the sheet-like pillow covers 920A, 920B and the water pillow sheet 920C as a type of local contact part 30 that is applied to the local heating and cooling systems S1, S2 according to an embodiment of the present technology.

Here, FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing the pillow cover 920A, FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view taken along line A-A in FIG. 11, FIG. 13 is a side view showing the pillow cover 920A in use, and FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view showing the pillow cover 920A in use.

The pillow cover 920A shown in Figures 11 and 12 is configured to sandwich a looped, meandering flexible tube 100 between two pieces of fabric 921a, 921b cut into a shape that covers the top surface of a pillow 940 (see Figure 13). Then, by driving the electric pump P as described above, the cooling water 200 flowing in the direction D2a from the flexible tube 100B circulates through the meandering flexible tube 100 in the direction D2, and is discharged in the direction D2b from a portion 100a of the flexible tube. This allows the head h10 and neck h11 of the user H to be cooled, as shown in Figures 13 and 14, etc.

The fabrics 921a and 921b of the pillowcase 920A should be made of a soft material (such as a three-dimensional mesh (double raschel) fabric) that can absorb the unevenness of the position where the flexible tube 100 is placed. The fabrics 921a and 921b have seams 930 around their periphery, which are sewn shut.

In addition, sponge or cotton may be stuffed between the fabrics 921a and 921b to improve the feel when the user H places his/her head h10 on it (see Figures 13 and 14).

The left and right ends of the pillowcase 920A are provided with strings 922 that secure the pillowcase 920A to the pillow 940.

In addition, in this embodiment, the pillow cover 920A and the pillow 940 are separate, but this is not limited thereto, and the pillow cover 920A and the pillow 940 may be provided in an integrated state.

Next, the pillow cover 920B will be described with reference to Figures 15 and 16.

Figure 15 is an explanatory diagram showing pillow cover 920B, and Figure 16 is a cross-sectional view of pillow cover 920B taken along line B-B.

In the pillow cover 920B shown in Figures 15 and 16, the flexible tube 100 (100A, 100B) branches into two flexible tubes 100C, 100D at branching points 150, 151, and is arranged as multiple loops inside the pillow cover 920B. The rest of the configuration and method of use are the same as those of the pillow cover 920A. With the pillow cover 920B, the head h10 and neck h11 of the user H can be cooled more efficiently.

In the pillow cover 920B shown in Figures 15 and 16, the flexible tube 100 is branched into two, but this is not limited thereto, and it is also possible to branch into three or more tubes, and arrange each branched flexible tube in a loop shape.

In addition, in this embodiment, the pillow cover 920B and the pillow 940 are separate, but this is not limited thereto, and the pillow cover 920B and the pillow 940 may be provided in an integrated state.

On the other hand, the water pillow sheet 920C shown in FIG. 17 has a meandering water channel 923 formed between two sheets 936a and 936b cut into a shape that covers the top surface of the pillow 940 (see FIG. 13) instead of a flexible tube.

Sheets 936a and 936b are molded, for example, from soft polyvinyl chloride resin.

In addition, an elastic sheet 937 made of an ether-based sponge or the like with a predetermined thickness (e.g., about 5 mm) is sandwiched between the sheets 936a and 936b. This prevents the water channel 923 from collapsing when the user H places his/her head h10 on it.

The water channel 923 can be constructed by forming alternating linear welds 950a between the sheets 936a and 936b, as shown in FIG. 17. In addition, the sheets 936a and 936b are fixed together by forming spot-like welds 950b at predetermined intervals along the water channel 923.

The space between sheets 936a and 936b is also sealed by welding the peripheral portions (welded portions) 950c of sheets 936a and 936b.

The welding process for each of the welded portions 950a to 950c can be performed by pressing a heated iron or jig of a predetermined shape against the outside of either sheet 936a or 936b.

In addition, in this embodiment, the water pillow sheet 920C and the pillow 940 are separate, but this is not limited thereto, and the water pillow sheet 920C and the pillow 940 may be provided in an integrated state.

The cooling water 200 injected in the direction D2a from the end of the flexible tube 100B is circulated along the water passage 923 in the route in the direction D2d by the drive of the electric pump P, and is discharged from a part 100a of the flexible tube.

In this way, the water pillow sheet 920C can reduce manufacturing costs by forming the water channel 923 by welding instead of flexible tubes. Also, compared to a configuration using flexible tubes, the flow rate of the cooling water 200 circulating through the water channel 923 can be increased, so the head h10 and neck h11 of the user H can be cooled more efficiently.

Here, FIG. 18 shows a graph showing the temperature change of the cooling water circulating through the pillow covers 920A, 920B or the water pillow sheet 920C.

In the graph, plot line L1 shows the temperature near the cooling water inlet of pillowcase 920A, 920B or water pillow sheet 920C, and plot line L2 shows the measurement result of the temperature near the cooling water outlet of pillowcase 920A, 920B or water pillow sheet 920C.

In this way, the average temperature near the cooling water inlet and the average temperature near the cooling water outlet are calculated based on the results of temperature measurements taken over a certain period of time, and the intermittent operation of the electric pump P can be controlled based on this calculated value.

This allows for more dynamic control of the average temperature of the cooling water 200 circulating through the pillow covers 920A, 920B or the water pillow sheet 920C, compared to when the electric pump P is controlled solely by changing the voltage.

[Condensation prevention structure for local heating and cooling systems]
19 and 20, a dew condensation prevention structure 970 applied to local heating and cooling systems S1, S2 according to an embodiment to which the present technology is applied will be described.

As shown in FIG. 20, at least a portion of the flexible tube 100 (100A, 100B) exposed from the aforementioned insulating container 600, 901 is covered with a three-dimensional mesh (double raschel) fabric 971. As a result, even if moisture in the air condenses on the surface of the flexible tube 100 (100A, 100B), the water droplets are immediately absorbed by the highly absorbent three-dimensional mesh (double raschel) fabric 971, preventing the surrounding area from getting wet due to condensation.

Also, as shown in FIG. 19, the three-dimensional mesh (double raschel) fabric 971 is equipped with a heater 972 to prevent condensation.

The heater 972 for preventing condensation is, for example, a line heater in which a heating element made of nichrome wire is covered with heat-resistant silicone rubber, and is arranged in a serpentine pattern on the fabric 971.

The condensation prevention heater 972 is connected to, for example, a timer 973 and a control unit 40, and can be controlled to be energized and operated for a predetermined time (for example, one minute) after the operation of the electric pump P is terminated.

Then, the fabric 971 equipped with the condensation prevention heater 972 is wrapped around a portion 100a (100b) of the flexible tube to form the condensation prevention structure 970 as shown in FIG. 20.

The anti-condensation heater 972 works to quickly evaporate the moisture absorbed in the three-dimensional mesh (double raschel) fabric 971, more effectively preventing the surrounding area from getting wet due to condensation.

[Another Example of Local Heating and Cooling System (Part 2)]
A configuration example of a local heating and cooling system S2 according to an embodiment to which the present technology is applied will be described with reference to FIGS.

(Schematic configuration of local heating and cooling system S2)
Here, Figure 21 is a block diagram showing an example configuration of a local heating and cooling system S2, Figure 22 is an oblique view showing the general configuration of a cooling device 1010 applied to the local heating and cooling system S2, and Figure 23 is a plan view showing the general configuration of the cooling device 1010.

As shown in FIG. 21, the local air conditioning system S2 according to this embodiment is composed of a cooling device 1010 as a heat source, a water-cooled pillow 1500 as an object to be cooled, and a flexible tube 1012 such as a silicone tube connected between the cooling device 1010 and the water-cooled pillow 1500 to circulate cooling water 200 as a liquid medium.

As the water-cooled pillow 1500, a pillow using pillow covers 920A, 920B, etc., as shown in Figures 11 to 17 described above can be used.

As shown in FIG. 21, etc., the cooling device 1010 is composed of a cooling unit 1201 that cools the cooling water 200, a tank (water tank) 1203 that stores the cooling water 200, an electric pump 1202 as a liquid medium delivery unit that delivers the cooling water 200, a power supply unit 1016 that supplies power to the cooling unit 1201 and the electric pump 1202, etc., an operation unit 1011 that sets various operating modes of the cooling device 1010, etc., and a control unit 1015 that is composed of a microcomputer, etc.

The electric pump 1202 and the cooling unit 1201 are connected by a silicone tube or the like. The cooling unit 1201 and the tank 1203 are connected to a flexible tube 1012.

The detailed configuration of the cooling unit 1201 will be described later.

Connected to the control unit 1015 are a crush detection means SN12 that detects the crushed state of the flexible tube 1012, a temperature and humidity sensor SN10 that detects the temperature and humidity of the outside air, and a tilt sensor SN11 that detects the tilt of the cooling device 1010.

As a result, the control unit 1015 can control the crush detection means SN12 to sound a buzzer or other such alarm when it detects that the flexible tube 1012 has been crushed, for example, by a foot, an object, or the like. Note that the crushed state can be detected, for example, by using a temperature sensor to detect a temperature change in the Peltier element 1254 or flexible tube 1012 described below that is provided in the cooling unit 1201, or by detecting an increase or decrease in the current to detect an increase in the load on the electric pump 1202.

The control unit 1015 can also control the operation of the electric pump 1202 based on the detection results of the temperature and humidity sensor SN10. That is, the strength of the cooling intensity can be adjusted based on the detection results of the temperature and humidity by the temperature and humidity sensor SN10.

In addition, based on the detection result of the tilt sensor SN11, the control unit 1015 can sound a buzzer or the like to warn, or light up an LED lamp to indicate an error, and can also control the operation of the electric pump 1202 to stop. This can prevent water leakage from the cooling device 1010.

As shown in FIG. 22, the cooling device 1010 applied to the local heating and cooling system S2 has a resin housing 1700, and the operation section 1011a of the operation unit 1011 is disposed on the top plate section 1701. In addition, a flexible tube 1012 extends from the top plate section 1701 to the outside.

An air intake 1702 consisting of multiple slits is provided on the side of the housing 1700. In addition, an exhaust port for discharging heat from the cooling unit 1201 is provided on another side (not shown).

In addition, a power cord 1703 extends from the lower end of the side of the housing 1700 to the outside and is connected to an AC power source.

As shown in FIG. 23, the operation unit 1011a is provided with a group of buttons Ba for selecting the cooling intensity, a group of buttons Bb for selecting the sleep mode or heat reduction mode, and a group of lamps Bc for displaying the temperature and humidity conditions.

(Regarding cooling units)
The configuration of the cooling unit 1201 of the cooling device 1010 will be described with reference to FIGS.

Here, FIG. 24 is an exploded perspective view showing the configuration of the cooling unit 1201 of the cooling device 1010 applied to the local heating and cooling system S2, and FIG. 25 is a cross-sectional view of the cooling unit 1201.

As shown in Figures 24 and 25, the cooling unit 1201 of the cooling device 1010 is equipped with a thermoelectric conversion element (such as a Peltier element) 1254 that generates a heat absorption effect on one side and a heat generation effect on the other side when current is applied from the power supply unit 1016, a cooling heat sink 1255 made of an aluminum plate or the like that contacts the heat absorption surface of the thermoelectric conversion element 1254, and a flow path module 1256 made of aluminum or the like that abuts against the cooling heat sink 1255 and has a flow path (cooling water path) 1256a that exchanges heat by circulating cooling water (relatively high temperature water HW that flows in and cooled water HW that is sent out) as a liquid medium.

The flow path 1256a can be formed to meander within the flow path module 1256. This can improve the efficiency of heat exchange.

The cooling unit 1201 further includes a heat sink 1252 made of aluminum or the like that dissipates heat from the heat generating surface of the thermoelectric conversion element 1254, and an electric fan 1251 that is disposed opposite the heat dissipation fins of the heat sink 1252 to provide cooling.

In addition, a heat insulating material 1253 made of a heat insulating foam material or the like is provided between the cooling heat sink 1255 and the heat dissipation heat sink 1252. This makes it possible to suppress the transfer of heat to the cooling heat sink 1255 side.

All components of the cooling unit 1201, except for the electric fan 1251, are fixed together by screws 1257 that are screwed into the flow path module 1256.

The cooling unit 1201 is then housed in a casing 1280 having an air intake (not shown), as shown in FIG. 25.

The casing 1280 and the electric fan 1251 are fixed to the side wall 1700a of the housing 1700.

In addition, an insulating air layer 1281 is provided between the inner wall of the casing 1280 and the contained flow path module 1256. This makes it possible to prevent heat from being transferred from within the device to the flow path module 1256.

The direction of the air blown from the electric fan 1251 is the direction D100 from inside the device through the exhaust port 1285 in the side wall to the outside. This makes it possible to prevent heat from building up inside the device.

Furthermore, the position of the air intake 1702 and the direction of the fins of the heat dissipation heat sink 1252 may be aligned. By adopting this configuration, the air flowing in from the air intake 1252 can easily pass between the fins of the heat dissipation heat sink 1252, facilitating heat exchange, and further making it easier to exhaust the warm air that has been heat exchanged by the electric fan 1251 outside the case.

(Internal structure of the cooling device)
The internal configuration of the cooling device 1010 will be described with reference to FIGS.

Here, FIG. 26 is a cross-sectional view showing the internal configuration of the housing 1700 of the cooling device 1010 applied to the local heating and cooling system S2, FIG. 27 is a cross-sectional view showing the internal configuration of the cooling device 1010 incorporating each component, and FIG. 28 is a schematic diagram showing the flow of water in the cooling device 1010.

As shown in Figures 26 and 27, the resin housing 1700 is composed of two halves 1700A and 1700B that can be separated.

Half body 1700A has an exhaust port 1285 consisting of multiple slits formed in the side wall on the right side of the figure.

In addition, air intakes 1702 consisting of multiple slits are formed on the front side and the back side (not shown) of half body 1700A.

A storage section for the operation unit 1011 and the operation section 1011a is formed at the top of one half 1700B.

The slits in the third section A3 are provided so that the exhaust from the shell of the third section A3 is directed to the first section A1 side. This allows the exhaust from the third section A3 to follow the exhaust from the first section A1, making it possible to exhaust the third section A3 smoothly without providing a fan in the third section A3.

The location where the slit is provided may also be separated from the position of the operating unit 1011. When in use, the operating unit 1011 is placed close to the operator, so the slit will be located away from the operator. As a result, warm air is exhausted from a position away from the operator, making it difficult for the warm air to flow toward the operator. Furthermore, a guide may be provided on the exhaust side to further prevent the exhaust air from reaching the operator's side.

Then, at the bottom of the inside of the housing 1700 formed by engaging the halves 1700A and 1700B, there are formed a first compartment A1 that houses the cooling unit 1201, a second compartment A2 that houses the tank 1203 that stores the cooling water 200 and the electric pump 1202 that pumps out the cooling water 200 supplied from the tank 1203, and a third compartment A3 that houses the power supply unit 1016 that supplies power to the cooling unit 1201, etc.

The power supply unit 1016 may be fixed to the third compartment A3 by screwing it in place, or a groove may be provided in the third compartment A3 into which the power supply unit can be inserted and the power supply unit may be slid into the groove.

The first section A1 and the second section A2 are separated by a partition wall K1.

This separates the first section A1, which forms an air passage passing through the cooling unit 1201, etc., from the second section A2, which contains the tank 1203 into which the relatively high-temperature cooling water HW flows and the electric pump 1202, which is a type of heat source, thereby improving the heat exchange efficiency in the cooling unit 1201.

The first section A1, the second section A2 and the third section A3 are separated by partition walls K2a and K2b.

As a result, even if cooling water leaks from the cooling unit 1201 or tank 1203 in the first section A1 or second section A2, it can be prevented from entering the third section A3 which houses the power supply unit 1016, preventing accidents such as electric shock and improving safety.

When the cooling device 1010 configured as described above is started, the electric pump 1202 is driven, and as shown in FIG. 28, the relatively high-temperature cooling water HW returning from the water cooling pillow 1500 via the flexible tube 1012 flows in the direction of D200 and is temporarily stored in the tank 1203. By temporarily storing the cooling water HW in the tank 1203, air does not enter the electric pump 1202, and the electric pump 1202 can be prevented from running idly.

The cooling water is then circulated in the directions of D201 and D202 by the electric pump 1202, and flows into the flow path module 1256 of the cooling unit 1201. The cooling water CW cooled by this cooling unit 1201 is sent out in the direction of D203 and supplied to the water-cooled pillow 1500 via the flexible tube 1012. This circulation of the cooling water HW and CW allows the water-cooled pillow 1500 to be continuously cooled.

[Other embodiments]
As described above, the present invention has been described by way of an embodiment, but the description and drawings forming a part of this disclosure are illustrative and should not be understood as being limited thereto. Various alternative embodiments, examples and operating techniques will become apparent to those skilled in the art from this disclosure.

As such, this embodiment includes various other embodiments not described here.

The local heating and cooling system and local heating and cooling method of this embodiment can be used for localized cooling of the body when active outdoors, for heating, or for cooling the head while sleeping.

S1 (S1a to S1d), S2... local heating and cooling system 10... heat source unit 20, 1202... liquid medium delivery unit (electric pump)
30: local contact unit 40, 1015: control unit (microcomputer)
50…Power supply (battery)
100 (100A to 100D), 1012... flexible tube 200, HW, CW... liquid medium (cooling water)
500...Device body 600, 901...Insulating container 610...Container 650...Heat medium for heat exchange 700...Waist bag (waist pouch) type case 800...Rucksack (knapsack) type case 810...Cartridge 820...PET bottle drink (canned drink)
850...Container 903...Insulating material 904...Cooling agent 920A, 920B...Pillow cover 920C...Water pillow sheet 921a, 921b...Fabric 923...Water channel 937...Elastic sheet 936a, 936b...Sheet 940...Pillow 950a to 950c...Welded part 970...Condensation prevention structure 971...Three-dimensional structure mesh fabric 972...Heater for preventing condensation SN1...First temperature sensor SN2, SN2a, SN2b...Second temperature sensor SN10...Temperature and humidity sensor SN11...Tilt sensor SN12...Tube crush detection means 1010...Cooling device 1011...Operation unit 1016...Power supply unit 1201...Cooling unit 1203...Tank (water tank)
1251: Electric fan 1252: Heat sink for heat dissipation 1253: Thermal insulation material 1254: Thermoelectric conversion element (Peltier element)
1255...cooling heat sink 1256...flow path module 1285...exhaust port 1500...water cooling pillow 1700...casing 1702...air intake port A1...first section A2...second section A3...third section K1, K2a, K2b...partition wall

Claims (4)

A heat source unit which is a cooling device;
a flexible tube for circulating the liquid medium cooled by the heat source;
a liquid medium delivery section that delivers the liquid medium to the flexible tube;
a pillow through which the liquid medium circulates between the pillow and the cooling device via the flexible tube;
A first temperature sensor for detecting a body temperature;
a control unit that controls the operation of the liquid medium delivery unit based on a detection result of the first temperature sensor,
The cooling device includes:
A thermoelectric conversion element that generates a heat absorption effect on one side and a heat generation effect on the other side when a current is passed through it;
a cooling heat sink in contact with a heat absorbing surface of the thermoelectric conversion element;
a cooling unit including a flow path module that is in contact with the cooling heat sink and has a flow path for circulating the liquid medium to perform heat exchange, and a fan that blows air from inside the cooling device to the outside,
Inside the housing of the cooling device,
a first section that houses the cooling unit and has an exhaust port that exhausts air by blowing air from the fan ;
a second compartment that accommodates a tank that stores the liquid medium and an electric pump that delivers the liquid medium;
a third compartment housing a power supply unit for supplying power to the cooling unit;
was established,
the first compartment, the second compartment, and the third compartment are separated by a partition wall;
A local cooling system, wherein the exhaust port of the first compartment and the exhaust port of the third compartment are arranged on the same side of the housing, the exhaust port of the third compartment has an inclined guide so that exhaust is directed toward the first compartment , and exhaust from the exhaust port of the third compartment is conducted in line with the exhaust from the exhaust port of the first compartment . a tube crushing detection means for detecting a crushed state of the flexible tube;
The local cooling system according to claim 1 , wherein the control unit performs control so as to provide an alert when the tube crushing detection means detects a crushed state of the flexible tube. Equipped with a temperature and humidity sensor that detects the temperature and humidity of the outside air,
The local cooling system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the control unit controls an operation of the liquid medium delivery unit based on a detection result of the temperature and humidity sensor. a tilt sensor for detecting a tilt of the cooling device;
The local cooling system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the control unit issues a notification based on a detection result of the tilt sensor, and controls the liquid medium delivery unit to stop operation.

Images