RU2792204C2 - Heat and cold energy delivery to human or animal body - Google Patents

Abstract

FIELD: medical equipment.

SUBSTANCE: heating and cooling device contains a heating and cooling plate, which can be connected to the human body. The heating and cooling plate has an upper side and a lower side, and an adhesive surface is provided on the lower side for attachment of the heating and cooling plate to the human skin. The heating and cooling plate contains at least one heating and cooling element, using which electrical energy generated with an electrical energy source can be converted into heat and cold energy. The heating and cooling device additionally contains a control unit, which is made with the possibility of fixed or detachable placement of the energy source, and it contains a signal processing processor. The control unit is made with the possibility of output of a control signal with an open loop and/or a closed loop, by means of which it is possible to control energy output from the energy source to the heating and cooling element. A system for heat and cold energy delivery to the human body, a method for control of a heating and/or cooling device with an open and closed loop, and a machine-readable carrier with a program code for implementing the method are disclosed.

EFFECT: increase in economy and stability.

15 cl, 10 dwg

Description

FIELD OF TECHNOLOGY

The present invention relates to a heating and/or cooling device for supplying heat and/or cold energy to a body and to a method for operating such a device in an open loop and/or closed loop, as well as to a computer program containing a program code for implementing said method.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The majority of the population suffers from occasional "chronic" neck and back tension. Chronic tension in the neck and back can lead to poor posture. Tension and incorrect body position can lead to poor blood circulation in the muscles, which, for example, can cause a migraine. In addition, in case of tension in the neck and back, a relieving body position is often used to avoid pain. Prolonged easing position of the body can cause great damage to the joints. In addition, the intervertebral discs can wear out due to incorrect body position, which can lead to an acute herniated disc. This has particularly long-term implications. Many affected people try to relieve tension or pain by applying passive remedies, such as ointments or thermal patches, without any additional effort or movement. Often the pain remains and can become chronic.

In the prior art, for example, thermal patches are known for the treatment of pain, in particular neck and back tension, as mentioned above. These thermal patches can generate heat through a chemical reaction. However, these thermal patches can also cause skin rashes in many patients due to a chemical reaction that generates heat. In addition, thermal patches containing chemicals should be regularly replaced with new thermal patches. This is unstable.

In addition, a thermal patch cannot generate constant heat at a painful or tense point for a longer period of time. Therefore, the pain is relieved only for a short period of time, and in particular, a longer treatment is expensive. Heat is also generated only at the surface of the skin and does not penetrate deeper into the body. Therefore, deep heat cannot be generated.

In addition, it is not possible to regulate the temperature, which, depending on the person and skin type, can cause skin injuries such as redness or burns if too much heat is applied.

The heat supply cannot be turned on and off either. Variable heat supply (on/off) is not possible with conventional thermal patches. In addition, traditional thermal patches require approximately > 30 minutes until the therapeutic temperature reaches 42°C. The constant supply of heat can adversely affect the healing process, depending on the ailment. The constant supply of heat can cause the muscle tissue to become accustomed to the heat, resulting in no relaxing effect. Therefore, intelligent heat therapy methods cannot be applied because heat is generated in an uncontrolled manner.

There is also a risk of misuse of thermotherapy. Thermal pads are often applied only to the site where pain occurs or is localized. This may relieve pain and tension in the short term, but new tension may develop in other parts of the body as the area of warmth is relieved while other areas become spasmodic. This can cause further stress due to the misapplication of localized heat.

Also known are large heating plates that can be directly connected to a power source via a socket. These heating plates are relatively inflexible and, since the power cable must be plugged into an outlet, they greatly restrict freedom of movement in daily life.

Purpose of the invention

The purpose of the present invention is to provide an improved concept for delivering heat and/or cold energy to the body of a living being and/or animal (hereinafter referred to as a living being) that is more cost-effective, more stable and more intelligent.

Goal Achievement

This goal is achieved using the device according to this invention according to paragraph 1 of the claims, the method according to this invention according to paragraph 14 of the claims and the computer program according to this invention according to paragraph 16 of the claims.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Embodiments of the present invention comprise a heating and/or cooling device for delivering heat and/or cold energy to the body of a living being. Said heating and/or cooling device comprises a heating and/or cooling plate that can be connected to the body of a living being. The heating and/or cooling plate has an upper side and a lower side, wherein an adhesive surface is provided on its lower side for attaching the heating and/or cooling plate to a living being's skin surface. The heating and/or cooling plate comprises at least one heating and/or cooling element by means of which the electrical energy coming out of the electrical energy source can be converted into heat and/or cold energy. The heating and/or cooling device additionally contains a control unit, which is designed for stationary or removable placement of the energy source and contains a signal processor. In addition, the control unit is designed to output an open-loop and/or closed-loop control signal, whereby the output of energy from the power source to the heating and/or cooling element can be controlled in an open-loop and/or closed-loop manner. The heating and/or cooling plate and the control unit can be electrically and mechanically connected to each other by means of at least one electrical connection element through which electrical energy can be transmitted to the heating and/or cooling element, and by means of at least one mechanical and /or one magnetic connector.

Embodiments provide concepts for delivering heat and/or cold energy to the body of a living being. The heating and/or cooling plate may be placed, glued or attached to the body of a living being by means of an adhesive surface. The heating and/or cooling plate may have a more or less flat shape, or be designed to be flat, so that, as far as possible, no pressure points are created on the living being's body when the heating and/or cooling device wears out. In addition, the heating and/or cooling plate is flexible by being as flat as possible. The heating and/or cooling plate may have a substantially flat shape with a bottom side or first surface and an upper side or second surface. An adhesive surface may be provided or formed on the underside of the heating and/or cooling plate. The adhesive surface may be provided with a protective layer to prevent accidental attachment, which may be removed prior to attachment to the body. The heating and/or cooling plate can absorb electrical energy or electric current and convert it (it), for example, into heat and/or cold energy or thermal energy. This conversion can take place, for example, by means of an electrical resistor or electrical heating or a heating and/or cooling element. An electrical resistor or an electrical heating and/or cooling element may convert electrical energy into heat. Heat and/or cold can be delivered to the body of a living being by contacting the heating and/or cooling plate with the body of a living being.

The muscle or muscles located under the skin at the location of the heating and/or cooling plate that delivers heat and/or cold to the body may be stimulated by the heat and/or cold transferred to the body by the heating and/or cooling plate. Delivery of heat and/or cold to muscles and other soft tissues can relax tense or contracted muscles and/or soft tissues. In addition, the delivery of heat and/or cold to the muscles can stimulate blood circulation in the muscles.

By stimulating the muscles, spasms and pain can be reduced. It is also possible that the antagonist of the muscle or muscle group is stimulated to relax the constricted opposite part(s). As a result of relaxed muscles and relaxed muscles in general, the posture and/or movement of the living being is improved. "Position of the body", which can be understood statically, also always refers to the movement of the body, which can be understood dynamically. Correct body posture can protect the joints and reduce pain, thus improving the well-being of the living being.

When using the electrical energy storage device instead of the chemical energy storage device such as a thermal patch, there is no danger of skin allergic reactions to the chemical energy storage device.

The heating and/or cooling device may also include a control unit on which a signal processor, processor, or controller may be located. The signal processor may be configured to generate an open-loop and/or closed-loop control signal or a signal for open-loop and/or closed-loop control of the power source. The signal processor may receive and process the data or signals and transmit the data or signals. Signals can be received or transmitted as radio signals or wired signals, analog or digital signals. The data may, for example, be generated by sensors or a controller and transmitted to a signal processor. The processing may be performed, for example, by calculating or evaluating or comparing measured or acquired data with reference data. The processing may be performed by software or hardware.

The signal processor may be configured to control the flow of power from the electrical power source. The signal processor may also be configured to control the delivery of thermal energy or the delivery of energy to the body or muscles. Electrical energy can be delivered continuously, for example, from a source of electrical energy to a heating and/or cooling plate by adjusting the power or by changing the pulse-pause ratio.

The source of electrical energy may be, for example, a battery or an accumulator. A battery or accumulator can generate electrical energy or electric current. The battery can be charged or recharged with electrical energy through an additional power source and a charging circuit.

An accumulator or battery, for example as a mobile electrical power source, can thus provide electrical power for the heating and/or cooling plate. In addition, the electrical power source may provide electrical power to the signal processor, sensors, radio unit, vibration generator, electrodes, heating elements, or transmission units. The battery or accumulator may be attached or attached to the control unit. However, electrical energy can also be transmitted to the control unit, for example via a cable. The cable can be connected to a power supply or socket that provides power. Therefore, a power source that can be detachably placed in the control box can also be an external power source that is placed in the control box via a cable, such as a power cable.

Electrical current may be transmitted from the control unit or electrical power source to the heating and/or cooling plate through an electrical connector or electrical connector. The electrical connector allows electrical connection and separation between the control unit or electrical power source and the heating and/or cooling plate. Additional electrical connectors such as a plug or contact and an appropriate socket or magnets or buttons may be used to create a safe and secure electrical connection that can be disconnected. Additional connectors are connectors that create a non-positive and/or positive connection with each other.

In addition, at least one mechanical and/or magnetic connector or a mechanical and/or magnetic connecting element can be located on the control unit, and an additional mechanical and/or magnetic connecting element on the heating and/or cooling plate. The connecting element may be located on the upper side of the heating and/or cooling plate or on the surface of the heating and/or cooling plate against the adhesive surface. This makes it possible to place a heating and/or cooling plate between the control unit and the body of a living being. A safe and secure mechanical and/or magnetic connection between the control unit and the heating and/or cooling plate can be established by means of a mechanical and/or non-mechanical connector that can separate the connection. Additional mechanical and/or magnetic connectors, such as those mentioned above for electrical connectors, can be used to create a secure and reliable mechanical and/or magnetic connection that can be separated. Mechanical and/or magnetic connectors make it possible to separate the heating and/or cooling plate from the control unit after use for cleaning or disposal. The control unit can be reused as often as needed, reducing the cost of maintaining or operating the heating and/or cooling device and providing sustainable benefits.

In a preferred embodiment, the electrical connector has a first electrical connector connected to the control unit and a second connector connected to the heating and/or cooling plate. The mechanical and/or magnetic connector comprises the first mechanical and/or magnetic connector connected to the control unit and the second mechanical and/or magnetic connector connected to the heating and/or cooling plate. Each of the first and second mechanical connecting elements contain the corresponding first and second electrical connecting elements. An electrical connector or an electrical connector or an electrical interface may be located or incorporated into the mechanical connector or mechanical connector. The mechanical and/or magnetic connector or the mechanical and/or magnetic connector may also be located or incorporated into the electrical connector or electrical connector. This has the advantage that when connecting the heating and/or cooling plate to the control unit, fewer connectors are needed to be connected or connected to each other. This simplifies operation and handling. For example, metal buttons, magnets or a snap system can be used as connecting elements. On the one hand, the connection system must provide a mechanically stable detachable connection, and on the other hand, the electrical resistance must be as low as possible.

In a particularly preferred embodiment, at least three mechanical and/or magnetic coupling elements are formed on the control unit and three additional mechanical and/or magnetic coupling elements are formed opposite each other on the heating and/or cooling plate in the same place. A stable mechanical and/or magnetic connection between the heating and/or cooling plate and the control unit can be established using three mechanical and/or non-mechanical connecting elements. This is particularly the case when a heating and/or cooling device is attached to the body of a living being. If there are more than two mechanical and/or magnetic connectors, the position of the connectors when connecting the heating and/or cooling device to the living being's body is less important. In addition, three or more connecting elements can be used, especially if the connecting elements are arranged asymmetrically, in order to provide a position-optimized or position-determined connection between the heating and/or cooling plate and the control unit. This means that the control unit can be connected to the heating and/or cooling plate in two positions (0° and/or 180°). Malfunctions or short circuits between the control unit and the heating and/or cooling plate are not possible.

In a preferred embodiment, the energy source and the heating and/or cooling element are configured to heat and/or cool the heating and/or cooling plate by 20 K in less than 1 minute, preferably in less than 20 seconds, particularly preferably in less than 5 seconds. . This has the advantage that the body can be rapidly supplied with thermal and/or cold energy, for example at muscle trigger points, due to rapid heating and/or cooling. This can result in particularly effective muscle stimulation and therefore muscle relaxation. The heating and/or cooling plate can be rapidly heated and/or cooled from 8°C to 42°C, preferably also to 45°C and vice versa (therapeutic heat and/or cold). The body reacts very sensitively to heat and/or cold within the range of its own body temperature (36°C), and changes in temperature within this range are clearly perceived.

In a particularly preferred embodiment, the heating and/or cooling device comprises at least one body position sensor. The body position sensor may be configured to at least partially detect the body position and/or movement of a living being. The body position sensor can generate body position data. The body position sensor may be located or formed on the control unit. The body position sensor may include at least one of the following sensors, for example, a 3D gyroscope, an acceleration sensor, a bend sensor, a temperature sensor, or a strain gauge sensor. The body position data output from the body position sensor(s) may be used to determine body position or movement. The body position data may be supplied or transmitted to the signal processor.

With the body position sensor or the generated body position data, it can be recognized or determined whether the body position of a living being is correct, or the body position is incorrect or unfavorable. It is also possible to detect only a part of the body position, for example, the body position of the upper body of a living being, by means of at least one body position sensor, and generate body position data.

Proper body position may include relaxed muscles. Correct body position may include the whole body in an upright position. With the correct body position, the body should not rest on the left or right side of the body. The head or body may appear to be attached or suspended from an invisible thread that runs to the highest point of the head when the position of the body is correct. If the body position is incorrect or unfavorable, the body may lean too far forward, backward, left or right. It is also possible that the shoulders, for example, are pulled up or down too much. In addition, a hump or hollow back can be an unfavorable or incorrect body position. Correct body position is a sign of relaxed muscles. Incorrect body position is a sign of tense or spasmodic muscles.

The relaxed position of the body can be different. Some living beings may have, for example, innate postures or postures that have changed due to illness, accident or age. It is also possible to define this altered body posture as a correct posture and consider deviations from this altered body posture as a violation of the posture or an incorrect posture of the body. It is also possible, for example, to calibrate the current body position or to correct the body position so that living beings, for example those with congenital body position disorders, do not display any false body position data.

The body position may be determined by calculating or evaluating the body position data or comparing the measured or recorded body position data with reference body position data in a signal processor. By determining the position of the body, it can be determined whether, for example, there is tension in the body or muscles of the living being. Muscle tension can cause pain in various parts of the body, such as the neck or back. Body position data can show exactly where the problem needs to be resolved or resolved.

If, based on body position, it is recognized that a certain muscle or several muscles are tense, these muscles can be stimulated or relaxed, for example, by applying energy or heat or cold. Depending on the body data, the signal processor can change the signal that can control the output of energy from the energy source to the heating and/or cooling element.

In another preferred embodiment, the heating and/or cooling device comprises a radio unit for transmitting and/or receiving data. The data may include sensor data, control data, status data, or other data. The radio unit may be located or formed on the control unit. Using the radio unit, the first heating and/or cooling device can communicate with at least one second heating and/or cooling device. However, the radio unit also allows the heating and/or cooling device to communicate with a mobile device such as a tablet, mobile phone or smartphone. Data may be exchanged between a signal processor on a first heating and/or cooling device and a signal processor on a second heating and/or cooling device or a signal processor on a mobile device. This can, for example, improve the ease of use and the effectiveness of the treatment.

In a preferred embodiment, the heating and/or cooling device comprises a temperature sensor that is configured to generate temperature data, and the signal processor is configured to generate an open-loop and/or closed-loop control signal for open-loop and/or closed-loop electric power source depending on temperature data. The temperature sensor may be located on a heating and/or cooling device, such as a heating and/or cooling plate. The temperature sensor may detect or measure the skin surface temperature and/or the temperature of the heating and/or cooling plate. A plurality of temperature sensors may also be located on the heating and/or cooling device or on the heating and/or cooling plate. Depending on the detected temperature of the temperature sensor, an open-loop and/or closed-loop control signal may be generated to control an open-loop and/or closed-loop electrical power and/or electrical current source. For example, the signal processor may be configured to generate an open-loop and/or closed-loop control signal to control an open-loop and/or closed-loop electric current depending on the temperature data or a certain temperature, and thus to open-loop and/or closed-loop control of the output of heat and/or cold energy or the temperature of the heating and/or cooling plate. Therefore, the temperature of the heating and/or cooling plate can be controlled in an open loop and/or closed loop mode.

For example, measuring body temperature or skin surface temperature can provide a pleasant, warm and/or cool body sensation to a living being. In addition, the temperature of the heating and/or cooling plate can be adjusted to the optimum treatment temperature. In addition, it can prevent burns or other damage to the skin caused by excessive heating and/or cooling of the heating and/or cooling plate.

Depending on the living being and skin type, the various high and/or low temperatures on the heating and/or cooling plate may be perceived as pleasant and cause muscle stimulation or healing. If the heating and/or cooling plate is not sufficiently heated and/or cooled, the muscle is not stimulated or relaxed, and therefore there is no benefit to the living being, such as pain relief. By detecting or measuring the temperature of the heating and/or cooling plate and comparing it with a target value or target temperature, an optimum temperature can be generated on the heating and/or cooling plate. If the temperature sensor measures a temperature on the skin that is below the target temperature, then the signal processor may, for example, activate a heating and/or cooling plate and convert electrical energy into heat and/or cold energy. By delivering heat and/or cold energy to the skin, the skin can be heated and/or cooled to a predetermined target temperature. Once the target temperature has been reached, the heat and/or cold energy conversion in the heating and/or cooling plate is reduced or increased until the skin temperature drops below or above the predetermined value again.

The temperature is preferably determined on the surface of the heating and/or cooling plate which is in contact with the skin (adhesive surface). The electric current is controlled accordingly depending on the temperature of the heating and/or cooling plate. If the target temperature of the heating and/or cooling plate is higher than the measured temperature, the electric current or delivery of electrical energy to the heating and/or cooling plate may be increased. If the target temperature of the heating and/or cooling plate is lower than the measured temperature, the electrical current or delivery of electrical energy to the heating and/or cooling plate may be reduced. In this way, a predetermined or optimum temperature can be reached on the adhesive surface of the heating and/or cooling plate. The heat delivery may be constant over the entire surface of either the adhesive surface or the film surface of the heating and/or cooling plate.

Experiments have shown that the temperature of the heating and/or cooling plate in contact with the skin should be < 60°C, preferably < 50°C, particularly preferably < 45°C or in the range from 38°C to 42°C in the case of heating, in order to avoid skin injury. Similarly, when cooling, the temperature should be in the range of 8°C to 15°C. For example, in the case of young children, the temperature should be < 40°C but above 8°C to avoid skin injury. To achieve muscle stimulation, the temperature should be > 35°C, preferably > 40°C, particularly preferably > 45°C.

In addition, the well-being in relation to the temperature of the heating and/or cooling plate may depend on the size of said plate. The larger the heating and/or cooling plate, the lower the temperature at which it operates, because with larger heating and/or cooling plates, the risk of injury to the skin is higher. In addition, there is a risk of overheating and/or hypothermia of the body of a living being when using large heating and/or cooling plates.

In another preferred embodiment, the electrodes are located on the underside of the heating and/or cooling plate and the signal processor is configured to determine muscle tension by electromyography and/or skin resistance by measuring skin conductivity. The heating and/or cooling device may include electromyographic electrodes for measuring muscle tension. Electrodes for measuring muscle tension during EMG may be located on a heating and/or cooling device. Electromyography (EMG) is used to measure electrical muscle activity. Electrodes placed on the surface of the skin can be used to measure potential changes in one or more muscles. Measuring potential changes with EMG provides information about muscle tension. Information about muscle tension may be provided to the signal processor. The signal processor may be configured to generate a control signal adjusted for muscle tension to control the electrical power source. Muscle tension information can be used to achieve targeted relaxation by applying heat to the muscles. In this way, tensions in the musculature can be identified and eliminated. EMG sensors can also identify or record skin data. Other sensors for detecting muscle tension may be body position sensors such as a 3D gyroscope (3D Gyroscope), an acceleration sensor, a temperature sensor, a bend sensor, or a strain gauge.

The heating and/or cooling device may include electrodes for detecting skin resistance. The heating and/or cooling device may include a skin resistance sensor that is configured to detect a person's skin resistance. The signal processor may be configured to generate a control signal adjusted for skin resistance to control the electrical power source or to control the power output from the power source to the heating element. Determination of skin resistance can determine, for example, how much a person sweats. The heating and/or cooling device may also include a sensor for detecting moisture or skin moisture. Such humidity sensors change, for example, their electrical resistance depending on the measured humidity. Thus, the generation of electrical energy by the electrical energy source and hence the delivery of heat from the heating and/or cooling device can be controlled or varied depending on the resistance of the skin or the amount of perspiration or perspiration of the living being.

To determine skin resistance, the impedance between two electrodes that are in contact with the body can also be measured. The impedance also depends on the sweat on the skin surface. The signal processor may be configured to determine or measure the impedance. The signal processor may be configured to generate an impedance-tuned control signal to control the output of power from the power source to the heating and/or cooling element.

In another preferred embodiment, the adhesive surface of the heating and/or cooling plate contains an adhesive and/or adhesive. Pressure-sensitive adhesive has the advantage that the adhesive does not have a hardening mechanism, which means that the adhesive does not form a permanent bond. This means that the heating and/or cooling plate can be detached from the user's body surface or skin after use and attached to the body of a living being if necessary.

In a preferred embodiment, the adhesive is in the form of a gel. The adhesive on the adhesive surface of the heating and/or cooling plate may contain a gel-like adhesive, or the consistency of the adhesive may be gel-like. Gel-like substances can adapt well to uneven surfaces, such as the surface of the skin, and can contact them over a large area. When in contact with large areas, heat and/or cold energy can be easily transferred from the heating and/or cooling plate to the body of a living being.

In another preferred embodiment, the heating and/or cooling plate is a disposable element and the control unit is a reusable element. The heating and/or cooling plate may adhere to the human body or skin. For reasons of hygiene (sweat, body fat) or, for example, because the heating and/or cooling device is used by different people or because the adhesive effect of the adhesive weakens after a certain time, the heating and/or cooling plate may be disposed of after a certain period of use or after a certain number of uses.

The control unit may contain electronics or various electronic elements that can be reused if necessary. The heating and/or cooling plate can be removed from the control unit after wear and replaced with a new heating and/or cooling plate. By reusing the control unit and replacing only the heating and/or cooling plate that comes into contact with the skin of a living being, the operating cost of the heating and/or cooling device can be reduced.

In another preferred embodiment, the heating and/or cooling device comprises a vibration generator that is configured to convert electrical energy generated by the electrical energy source into mechanical energy that can be transmitted to the human body. The vibration generator can convert electrical energy into mechanical energy and deliver it to the body, for example, in the form of vibrations. The vibration generator may, for example, comprise an electric motor with an asymmetrically located mass (unbalance) on the shaft. When the motor shaft is driven by electrical energy, the mass connected to the shaft begins to rotate. The rotating mass creates an imbalance that causes mechanical vibrations or mechanical energy. The imbalance is created by shifting the mass shift point relative to the axis of rotation of the shaft. Upon contact of the heating and/or cooling device with the body of a living being, mechanical energy can be transferred to the skin or body of a living being.

Mechanical energy is dependent on the mass or imbalance and speed of rotation of the motor or motor shaft, among other things. The greater the imbalance, the more mechanical energy is generated. In addition, the greater the speed of rotation of the mass or shaft of the electric motor, the greater the generated mechanical energy.

By transferring mechanical energy to the body of a living being, a person can perceive vibrations. These vibrations can inform a living being about an incorrect position of the body or signal an incorrect position of the body. Through vibration, a living being can receive information and, for example, can improve his body position through his own conscious observation. Thus, vibrations can signal unfavorable body positions. The unfavorable body position can also be signaled, for example, by a heating and/or cooling device close to the unfavorable body position. In addition, the living being can also be informed of a wrong body posture or an improvement in the body posture by outputting information from the heating and/or cooling device to the living being, for example, on a display of a mobile device. Through vibration, the living being can also be reminded, for example, of physical exercises (gymnastic exercises) to improve the posture of the body.

In addition, embodiments provide a system for delivering heat and/or cold energy to the body of a living being. This system can help to relax the muscles of the body. The system comprises at least one first heating and/or cooling device in accordance with the described embodiments, and at least one second heating and/or cooling device in accordance with the described embodiments, and/or a mobile device that is suitable for data exchange with the first heating and/or cooling device. In embodiments, the system may be configured to transmit and/or receive data from a first heating and/or cooling device to a second heating and/or cooling device. Thus, the heating and/or cooling devices can communicate with each other and form a network. The heating and/or cooling devices may also be configured to send data to and/or receive data from a mobile device. The mobile device may be a mobile phone, smartphone or tablet, or a mobile device specifically designed to deliver heat and/or cold energy to the body of a living being. Thus, a network can also be formed. The data may be sensor data, body position data, control data, or other data that is important to the operation of the heating and/or cooling devices. Heating and/or cooling devices can also be connected to each other using a cable.

In addition, there is provided a method for controlling a heating and/or cooling device according to embodiments, the method for delivering heat and/or cold energy to the body of a living being. The heating and/or cooling device comprises a control unit and a heating and/or cooling plate, which can be connected to the body of a living being and is provided with a heating and/or cooling element, wherein the control unit and the plate are electrically and mechanically connected to each other, the control signal is generated by means of a control unit, by means of a control signal of which it is possible to control the energy output from the energy source to the heating and/or cooling element.

In addition, body position sensors can be used to measure a person's body position and determine said body position in a control unit, from which an open-loop and/or closed-loop control signal can be calculated to control the thermal output such that the body position is corrected.

Also provided is a computer program containing program code for carrying out the above method when the computer program is executed on a computer or a processor.

Embodiments of the present invention are explained in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

fig. 1 is a schematic top view illustration of a first embodiment of a heating and/or cooling device;

fig. 2 is a schematic top view illustration of a second embodiment of a heating and/or cooling device comprising three connecting members;

fig. 3a is a further schematic illustration of a heating and/or cooling device in side view with a connected heating and/or cooling plate and a control unit;

fig. 3b is a further schematic illustration of a heating and/or cooling device in side view with a separated heating and/or cooling plate and a control unit;

fig. 4 is a further schematic cross-sectional illustration of a heating and/or cooling device with a separated heating and/or cooling plate and a control unit;

fig. 5a shows a person in front view with a combination of heating and/or cooling devices;

fig. 5b shows a person in rear view with a combination of heating and/or cooling devices;

fig. 6 shows a system for delivering heat and/or cold energy to the body of a living being using various heating and/or cooling devices;

fig. 7 shows a system for delivering heat and/or cold energy to the body of a living being via a mobile device;

fig. 8a-8c show a mobile device with circuits for improving body posture.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

In the following description of embodiments of the invention, identical or equivalent elements in the figures are provided with the same reference numerals so that their description in different embodiments is interchangeable.

Fig. 1 is a schematic top view illustration of a first embodiment of a heating and/or cooling device 10 for delivering heat and/or cold energy to the body 28 of a living being. The heating and/or cooling device 10 includes a heating and/or cooling plate 12 that can be connected to the human body 28 and has an upper side and a lower side, and on the lower side of which an adhesive surface 1210 is provided for attaching the heating and/or cooling plate 12 to the surface of human skin. An adhesive surface 1210 may be formed on the first surface of the heating and/or cooling plate 12. The adhesive surface 1210 may be brought into contact with a skin surface of a living being. When the adhesive surface 1210 is brought into contact with a human skin surface, the adhesive surface of the heating and/or cooling plate should adhere or adhere to the human skin. The adhesive surface 1210 may be protected by a protective layer for the adhesive, for example, from contamination or accidental attachment before it reaches the skin surface. This protective layer is removed before being attached to the skin.

The adhesive used must have skin-friendly properties. This means that the adhesive surface 1210 or adhesive must not damage or irritate the skin. In addition, it should be possible to easily remove the adhesive surface 1210 from the skin, for example, after applying the heating and/or cooling plate 12. The adhesive surface 1210 should be reusable.

The adhesive may preferably contain a pressure sensitive adhesive. Pressure-sensitive adhesives do not have a bonding mechanism. This means that they remain very viscous and permanently tacky after application to the carrier material and are applied to the counterpart, eg skin, under contact pressure and remain adhered there. The adhesive on the adhesive surface 1210 of the heating and/or cooling plate 12 may be gelled. The adhesive on the adhesive surface of the heating and/or cooling plate 12 may have a high viscosity. The adhesive on the adhesive surface of the heating and/or cooling plate 12 may have a gel-like consistency. The gel-like adhesive can easily penetrate into skin folds or roughness on the skin and thus ensure a good adhesive contact. The adhesive must have good thermal conductivity. Good thermal conductivity and good thermal contact between the heating and/or cooling plate 12 and the skin surface means that heat and/or cold energy can be easily transferred from the heating and/or cooling plate 12 to the human body 28 or skin.

The heating and/or cooling plate 12 may include at least one heating and/or cooling element 26 that converts electrical energy or electrical current supplied by electrical energy source 22 into heat and/or cold energy or thermal energy. The heating and/or cooling element or heating and/or cooling plate 12 may be configured to deliver or transfer heat and/or cold energy to the human body 28. The heating and/or cooling element 26 can be heated by converting electrical energy into thermal energy. The conversion of electrical energy or electrical current into thermal energy or thermal energy can be achieved, for example, with an electrical resistor (R) or an electrical heating element. The generated thermal energy is more or less proportional to the applied or generated electrical energy.

Heat and/or cold energy can be delivered to the human body 28 as is the case with a thermal patch. As a result of the delivery of heat and/or cold energy, contracted muscles can relax particularly well. The delivery of heat can dilate the blood vessels in the muscles and thus promote blood circulation in the muscles. Due to improved blood circulation, harmful substances that block the muscle can also be flushed out of the muscle and it can recover. By relaxing the muscles, the spasms go away and the pain decreases.

A heating and/or cooling element 26 or an electrical resistor that converts electrical current into heat and/or cold may be centrally located on the heating and/or cooling plate 12 and distribute heat and/or cold energy to the heating and/or cooling plate. 12 with a thermally conductive material such as metal. The heating and/or cooling element 26 may also be positioned flat on the heating and/or cooling plate 12 (shown in dotted line in FIG. 1). Thus, electrical energy is converted into heat and/or cold energy over a larger area of the heating and/or cooling plate 12. The heating and/or cooling plate 12 or the heating and/or cooling element 26 may comprise a heating film, wire, wire mesh or wire mesh. textile. They may, for example, generate constant heat and/or cold over more or less their entire surface.

Fig. 10 is a schematic illustration of an embodiment of a control box 14 comprising a plurality of electrical components and one or more electrical connectors 18a, 18b between the control box 14 and a heating and/or cooling plate 12 (not shown). The open loop/closed loop control unit 14 will be referred to in the following text as the control unit 14 . The specified block contains:

- source 22 of energy. The power source 22 can be placed in the control unit 14 in either a fixed or detachable manner. However, the power source 22 can also be an externally located power source 22, such as a power supply system, which is placed in the control unit 14 via a cable or non-contact, for example by inductive or capacitive power transmission. If a storage battery is used as the energy source 22, the control unit 14 may also include a suitable charging circuit 104;

signal processing means as a signal processor 16, which is configured to receive signals relating to the operation of the control unit 14. Some of these signals 38, 107, 116, 117 may be electrical and come from outside the control unit 14, in which case the signal may be routed through an electrical connector 18. The signals 117 may be digital, in which case they may be processed directly by the processing processor 16 signals. Some signal processors 16 may be able to process analog signals directly, but in most cases an analog-to-digital converter (ADC) 108 may be used to process external analog signals 38, 107, 116 to convert or adjust them appropriately;

- a control device or microcontroller 110. This may be a separate component or combined with a signal processor 16, as shown in FIG. 10. The microcontroller 110 is configured and arranged to control the operation of the control unit 14; in particular, the control unit 14 may be configured to control the output of power from the power source 22 to one or more heating and/or cooling elements 26 through one or more electrical connectors 18. Some microcontrollers 110 may be able to provide the appropriate current and/or or an appropriate voltage directly to one or more heating and/or cooling elements 26, but in most cases a separate pulse-width modulation (PWM) can be applied, such as PWM control by a pulse-width modulator 112. In such a case, the microcontroller 110 can provide treatment instructions such as heating the skin to 30°C for 2 minutes; cooling to room temperature; repeat for 1 minute, and the power control may then be configured to control one or more heating and/or cooling elements 26 using any suitable control algorithm, such as a PID controller transfer function;

Optionally, a display 101 may be provided to inform the operator of important parameters such as skin temperature, battery 22 status or mode of operation;

Optionally, the control unit 14 may include a vibration generator 42 as a means of providing stimulation other than heating and/or cooling. This additional means may be provided in the control box 14 as shown, or outside the control box 14 using an electrical connector 18 to supply electrical power to these additional stimulants 114;

optionally, one or more skin temperature sensors 38 to prevent skin damage caused by heat and/or cold. The signal processing means 16 and the control device 110 can only be configured to provide heat and/or cold during treatment steps if the skin near the plate 12 is sufficiently not too hot and/or not too cold. For example, before applying electrical power to one or more heating elements 26, an electrical current signal from pulse width modulator 112 may be applied to first check if the skin is below a threshold temperature. Once the heat treatment has been started, the skin temperature can be continuously monitored and the treatment can be terminated if the skin temperature exceeds a predetermined threshold. For example, before applying an electric current signal to one or more cooling elements 26 from the pulse-width modulator 112, you can first check if the skin is above the threshold temperature. Once the cooling treatment has begun, the skin temperature can be continuously monitored and the treatment can be stopped if the skin temperature falls below a predetermined threshold. Although shown on the outside of block 14, other elements may also be used inside block 14, such as a thermal imaging camera or an optical temperature sensor mounted inside block 14 with the hole facing the skin. As a rule, the maximum temperature is approximately 42-43°C to avoid thermal damage to the skin. For this, typical values during processing are approximately 8°C to 15°C, preferably also up to 20°C. These values may vary depending on the position of the body in which the treatment is applied and individual dependence;

optionally one of a plurality of skin detection sensors 107 . The signal processing means 16 and the microcontroller controller 110 may be configured to provide heating and/or cooling during the treatment steps only if the plate 12 is in sufficient contact with the skin surface. For example, before applying electrical power to one or more heating and/or cooling elements 26, measurement 107 may first be performed to ensure sufficient contact with the skin. Once treatment has begun, skin contact can be continuously monitored and treatment can be terminated if the degree of skin contact falls below a predetermined threshold. While external block 14 is shown, other options in block 14 may also be used, such as a capacitive detector within block 14. One or more skin temperature sensors 38 may also be configured as a skin detection sensor;

- optionally, but preferably, a security and protection tracking device 109. Under predetermined conditions during operation, the signal processing means 16 and the control device 110 can be configured to change or even suspend the supply of electrical energy to one or more heating and/or cooling elements 26, for example, as mentioned above, if the skin temperature is outside a predetermined range or if the degree of skin contact is below a predetermined threshold. Optionally, a current, voltage, energy, and/or power tracking device 113 may be provided to determine the dose to the skin; if the dose exceeds a predetermined value, the power of the electric current signal of the pulse width modulator 112 can be changed or even suspended. Optionally, block 14 may include a memory that stores preset limits and ranges, and it may be advantageous to allow the user to change or adjust these limits and ranges. Optionally, it is also possible to monitor internal parameters such as the temperature of the energy source 22 or the state of charge of the energy source 22; for example, the signal processing means 16 and the control device 110 can be configured to suspend or prevent treatment if there is not enough energy in the power source 22 to complete the treatment; And

- optionally additional sensors 116, 117, such as one or more body position sensors, one or more EMG (electromyography) sensors, one or more bending sensors, one or more 3D gyroscope sensors, one or more acceleration sensors or one or more stretch sensors.

The signal processor 16 may be configured to generate a control signal for the power source control device 110 . Signal processor 16 may be configured to receive and process signals from one or more signal sources 38, 107, 116, 117, such as body position sensors, temperature sensors 38, or other sensors. The signal processor 16 may generate a control signal that controls the source of electrical energy or controls the supply of energy or delivery of energy to the body or muscles. The signal processor 16 may comprise a processing means or a computing unit. The signal processor 16 may also process the signals partially or incompletely and transfer the signals for processing to another signal processor, for example, in a mobile device or other heating and/or cooling device 10 or control unit 14. The signal processor 16 may, for example, only receive and/or transmit radio signals.

The heating and/or cooling element 26 may be configured to receive electrical current directly from the electrical energy source 22 and to deliver heat and/or cold energy to the skin of a living being. Heating and/or cooling element 26 may also be configured to receive electrical current from electrical power source 22 via signal processor 16 and microcontroller 110 and supply heat and/or cold energy to human skin. In addition, the signal processor 16 may transmit a control signal for the control device 110 of the electrical power source 22 to the heating and/or cooling plate 12, and the heating and/or cooling plate 12 may transmit a signal to the electrical power source 22 and receive electrical energy from the source. 22 electrical energy.

The electrical power source 22 and the heating and/or cooling element 26 can be configured to heat the heating and/or cooling plate 12 by 20 K in less than 1 minute, preferably in less than 20 seconds, particularly preferably in less than 5 seconds. Heating of the heating and/or cooling plate 12 can be monitored by the temperature sensor 38 to avoid skin injury such as burns. The temperature sensor 38 may be located on the heating and/or cooling plate 12 and may, for example, monitor the temperature of the heating and/or cooling plate 12. The signal processor 16 may, for example, process the measured value from the temperature sensor 38 and, depending on the measured the temperature value or values measured at the temperature sensor 38, change the control signal for controlling the electrical power source 22 so that more electrical power is supplied to the heating and/or cooling plate 12 if the heating and/or cooling plate 12 should be heated more, and less or no electrical energy was supplied to the heating and/or cooling plate 12 if the heating and/or cooling plate 12 were to heat up less or not heat up at all. The temperature sensor 38 can also measure the skin temperature or body temperature of a person and, depending on the body temperature, control electrical energy as described above so that the heating and/or cooling device 10 heats the person as soon as the skin temperature or body temperature drops. below the preset value.

The time during which the skin heats up and/or cools down depends on a number of parameters, including:

- the time required for the heating and/or cooling plates 12 to reach the desired temperature, and the rate of heat exchange between the plates 12 and adjacent skin;

- current, voltage and output energy of the regulator 112 power pulse-width modulation;

- maximum current, maximum voltage and maximum output energy of the energy source 22;

- type of heating and/or cooling elements 26;

- dimensions of heating and/or cooling elements 26;

- the resistance and dimensions of the heating conductors for the heating element 26 (suitable metals include copper, aluminium, platinum or chromium alloys of these metals);

is the density (distance) of the heating conductors for the heating element 26. In embodiments where one or more resistance heating elements are connected from the center of the plate 12, the central part of the plate is likely to heat up faster than the edges of the plate;

- service control profile, eg PID control is usually based on the error between the actual values and the target value. However, the initial heating and/or cooling can be accelerated by exceeding the PID controller threshold at the beginning. For example, the desired value can be increased by 1°C or 2°C; if the target value is actually 42°C, the heating element may have a set overshoot value of 44°C or even 45°C. Although for safety reasons the skin temperature is usually peaked at 42°C or 43°C, a higher temperature may be tolerated for a very short period of time, such as 45°C, no more than 5 seconds. Through appropriate optimization, temperatures of up to 42° C. near the middle of the plate 12 were reached within 20 seconds.

The electrical power source 22 may be, for example, a mobile electrical power source such as a battery or accumulator. A battery or accumulator can generate electrical energy or electric current. The battery may be charged or recharged with electrical energy through the auxiliary power source 22 and the charging circuit 104. The electrical power source 22 may also be a public power system, in which case, for example, the voltage of the power supply system can be reduced through the power supply unit before being supplied to the heating and/or cooling device 10.

The heating and/or cooling plate 12 and the control unit 14 may be electrically and mechanically connected to each other by at least one electrical connector 18, through which electrical energy can be transmitted to the heating and/or cooling element 26, as well as at least one magnetic slot 20.

An electrical connector 18a may be provided on the control box 14 to transmit electrical power or current from the control box 14 to an additional electrical connector 18b that is formed on the heating and/or cooling plate 12. The electrical connector 18 may be connected to an electrical power source. energy processor 16 signal processing or, for example, a control element that receives a control signal for the device 110 control source 22 of electrical energy. The electrical connector 18 may be in the form of an electrical plug and electrical socket, for example, or in the form of magnets. The electrical connection elements 18a, 18b are preferably made of metal. The electrical connectors 18a, 18b can also be plated with another metal that has low contact resistance or does not oxidize (eg gold). The electrical connectors 18 may be mechanically fixed on the control unit 14 and/or on the heating and/or cooling plate 12 for transmitting electrical energy. The electrical connectors 18 may also be connected to the control unit 14 and/or the heating and/or cooling plate 12 using a flexible cable.

At least one mechanical connecting element 20a can be located on the control unit 14. In addition to the mechanical connector 20a located on the control unit 14, an additional mechanical connector 20b may be located on the heating and/or cooling plate 12. The mechanical coupling 20b may be located on the heating and/or cooling plate 12 on the upper side, opposite adhesive surface on the heating and/or cooling plate 12. The mechanical connector 20a on the control box 14 must be aligned with the position of the mechanical connector 20b on the heating and/or cooling plate 12 so that the connectors 20a, 20b can be easily connected .

Through the mechanical connectors 20a, 20b, the control unit 14 and the heating and/or cooling plate 12 can be easily combined to form a heating and/or cooling device 10. Conversely, the heating and/or cooling device 10 can be separated or separated by magnetic connectors 20 on the unit 14 controls for use in the heating and/or cooling device 10 according to the embodiment, and in the heating and/or cooling plate 12 for use in the heating and/or cooling device 10 according to the embodiment. In FIG. 1 control unit 14 and heating and/or cooling plate 12 are connected via two magnetic connectors 20.

The heating and/or cooling plate 12 may be a disposable element that can be replaced after use one or more times, about ten times, or about twenty or thirty times. On the one hand, this has advantages in terms of hygiene, since the heating and/or cooling plate 12 is glued directly to the human body or skin and sometimes comes into contact with a lot of sweat and body fat. On the other hand, when the adhesive effect decreases, the adhesive surface of the heating and/or cooling plate 12 can be replaced by replacing the heating and/or cooling plate 12 to achieve a good adhesive effect of the heating and/or cooling device 10 on the human body 28 again. It is also possible, for example, for the heating and/or cooling element 26, which converts electrical energy into thermal energy, to be removed from the used heating and/or cooling plate 12 and inserted into another new heating and/or cooling plate 12. Costs and resources can be save by reusing the heating element 26 or the sensors on the heating and/or cooling plate 12.

The control unit 14 may be a reusable element. The control unit 14 may include, for example, a signal processor 16, a radio unit, a power source 22 or other electronics. The control unit 14 must contain components that can be easily recycled and/or are expensive or valuable. All information or components that affect the intelligence of the heating and/or cooling device 10 can be located on the control unit 14. The control unit 14 can be reused as often as required, thus saving costs and resources.

The control unit 14 may be positioned on the heating and/or cooling plate 12 so that it does not come into direct contact with human skin when the heating and/or cooling device 10 is worn or attached to the body 28 of a living being. This results in less unhygienic contamination of the control unit 10, such as sweat or body fat.

The electrical connector 18 comprises a first electrical connector 18a connected to the control unit 14 and a second connector 18b connected to the heating and/or cooling plate 12. The magnetic connector 20 further comprises a first mechanical connector 20a connected to the control unit 14 and a second mechanical connector 20b connected to heating and/or cooling plate 12. First and second mechanical connector 20a; 20b may include a respective first and second electrical connector 18a; 18b respectively. The mechanical connector 20a, 20b may include an electrical connector 18a, 18b for transmitting electrical current. In other words, the electrical connection element 18a, 18b for the transmission of electric current can be integrated, for example, into the mechanical connection element 20a, 20b. The mechanical connection element 20a, 20b can also be integrated, for example, into an electrical connection element 18a, 18b for the transmission of electric current. For example, a metal push button having a corresponding mate or a metal magnet can be used both as a mechanical connector 20a, 20b and as an electrical connector 18a, 18b for transmitting electric current.

Embodiments of the heating and/or cooling device 10 may, as a smart thermal patch, be self-adhesive and, as a heating and/or cooling element in the heating and/or cooling plate 12, comprise a heating film or wire mesh that can be heated to therapeutic energy. temperature component from 40°C to 42°C for a few seconds.

The self-adhesive film of the heating and/or cooling plate 12 may be applied several times, preferably twenty to thirty times. In addition, it has proven to be particularly advantageous in the context of the invention if, in embodiments of the invention, a particularly skin-friendly adhesive is used for the self-adhesive film, so that the heating and/or cooling plate 12 can be applied in a manner similar to that of a temporary tattoo and can also remain on skin overnight or for several days. This is particularly advantageous since the other components of the heating and/or cooling plate 10 can only be placed on the heating and/or cooling plate 12 when treatment is required and can be removed again after treatment.

In FIG. 2 shows a heating and/or cooling device 10 comprising three mechanical connectors 20a, 20b. The heating and/or cooling device 10 may include at least three mechanical connectors 20a, 20b, three mechanical connectors 20a formed on the control unit 14, and three additional mechanical connectors 20b formed on the heating and/or cooling plate 12 at the same location. on the opposite side to connect the heating and/or cooling plate 12 with the control unit 14. Mechanical connectors 20a, 20b may also include electrical connectors 18a, 18b. Thus, the mechanical connecting elements 20a, 20b can be arranged in a mirror-image manner between the control unit 14 and the heating and/or cooling plate 12.

For example, by arranging the mechanical and/or magnetic connectors 20a, 20b, alignment coding can be achieved so that the control unit 14 can only be connected to the heating and/or cooling plate 12 at a certain position or location (coding). This facilitates, for example, the absorption of certain forces, such as vertical forces, which act on the heating and/or cooling device 10 when worn on the body 28 of a living being. In addition, by coding for the connecting elements 18a, 18b; 20a, 20b, which include both mechanical connectors 20a, 20b and electrical connectors 18a, 18b, the risk of electrical polarity reversal when the heating and/or cooling plate 12 is connected to the control unit 14 can be reduced. In addition, with three pairs of connecting elements 18a, 18b; 20a, 20b, in addition to the bipolar electrical source, the control signal can be transmitted to the third connection element. In the case of a control signal modulated on a signal of a bipolar electrical source, a third pair of connecting elements 18a, 18b is needed; 20a, 20b. However, more than three, for example, four or more mechanical connectors 20a, 20b and/or electrical connectors 18a, 20b may connect the heating and/or cooling plate 12 and the control unit 14 to form a heating and/or cooling device 10 .

Each of the FIGS. 3a and 3b are another illustration of an embodiment of the heating and/or cooling device 10 in side view. In FIG. 3a shows a heating and/or cooling device 10 comprising a connected or connected heating and/or cooling plate 12 and a control unit 14. In the connected state, no distinction can be made in the illustration between the electrical or mechanical and/or magnetic connecting elements 18a, 18b; 20a, 20b, which are attached to the control box 14 or to the heating and/or cooling plate 12. The heating and/or cooling plate 12, which can be connected to the human body, has an upper side 122 and a lower side 121, on the lower side of which is provided an adhesive surface 1210 for attaching the heating and/or cooling plate 12 to the human skin surface 28. The heating and/or cooling plate 12 includes at least a heating and/or cooling element 26 that can convert the output electrical energy from the electrical energy source 22 into heat and/or cold energy. The control unit 14 may include a signal processor 16 for controlling the output of energy from the energy source 22 to the heating and/or cooling element 26.

In FIG. 3b shows a heating and/or cooling device 10 comprising a separate heating and/or cooling plate 12 and a control unit 14. The control box 14 shows two electrical connectors 18a and two mechanical connectors 20a. The mechanical and/or magnetic connector 20a encloses or surrounds the electrical connector 18a for transmitting electrical current. Thus, the connecting elements may be mechanical and/or magnetic 20a and/or electrical 18a connecting elements. The electrical connectors 18b and the mechanical and/or magnetic connectors 20b, which complement the connectors 18a, 20a of the control unit 14, can be located on the heating and/or cooling plate 12. The mechanical and/or magnetic connector 20b surrounds or surrounds the electrical connector. element 18b for transmitting electric current in the illustration.

An adhesive surface 1210 may be formed on the bottom side 121 or first surface 121 of the heating and/or cooling plate 12. Electrical or mechanical and/or magnetic connectors 18b, 20b may be located on the opposite top side 122 or second surface. The heating and/or cooling plate 12 in turn includes at least a heating and/or cooling element 26. The heating and/or cooling element 26 can convert electrical energy output from the electrical energy source 22 into heat and/or cold energy. The control unit 14 may include a signal processor 16 for controlling the output of energy from the energy source 22 to the heating and/or cooling element 26.

Fig. 4 is another schematic illustration of a heating and/or cooling device 10 in cross-sectional view comprising a separate heating and/or cooling plate 12 and a control unit 14. The section shows the various elements that may include the control unit 14 and the heating and/or cooling plate 12.

The source 22 of electrical energy may be located, for example, in the control unit 14 or on it. You can also position or attach the source 22 of electrical power. This means that the source 22 of electrical energy may be rigidly connected to the control unit 14 or be removable. The source 22 of electrical energy may be configured to supply electrical energy to the heating and/or cooling plate 12 and/or the control unit 14. This means that the heating and/or cooling device 10 does not depend on a wired power supply, which, for example, must be connected to a socket and restricts the freedom of movement of a person. The mobile power source 22 may be, for example, a battery or an accumulator. The battery or accumulator may provide electrical energy or electrical current. The battery may be charged or recharged with electrical energy through the auxiliary power source 22 and the charging circuit 104. The heating and/or cooling device 10 may also be connected to an outlet, such as through a power supply, to supply power to the embodiments. The heating and/or cooling device 10 can thus be connected to an externally located power source. By supplying the heating and/or cooling device 10 with electrical power from a socket, the electrical power source does not need to be replaced or recharged.

The heating and/or cooling device 10, preferably the control unit 14, may include a body position sensor 24, whereby a body position sensor 24 may be configured to at least partially detect body position and/or movement of a person and generate body position data. The signal processor 16 may be configured to control the output of energy from the energy source 22 to the heating and/or cooling element 26 via body position data. The heating and/or cooling plate 10 may comprise only one body position sensor 24 or a plurality of body position sensors 24 . The constellation of body position sensors 24 can generally determine body position more accurately. The body position sensor 24 or the signal processor 16 may determine whether the person has an unfavorable or incorrect body position, or whether the body position is correct or correct. The body position data may be generated based on the body position. The body position data may be an analog or digital electrical signal generated by the body position sensor 24 . The signal may be input to or output from the body position sensor 24 as a wired electrical line signal or a wireless signal or radio signal.

The body position sensor 24 may be located on or in the control unit 14 . The body position sensor 24 may also identify or determine the position of the body using skin data. The body position sensor 24 may include a 3D gyro sensor (3D Gyro), an acceleration sensor, a temperature sensor 38, a bend sensor, an EMG sensor, strain gauges, or other sensors for detecting body position. The body position sensor 24 may be used to determine the position of a person's body. The body position sensors 24 may, for example, be placed on the shoulders or neck or in the region of the spine and determine the position of the human body. A 3D gyro sensor or 3D gyroscope such as the ITG-3200 from IvenSens Inc. can detect movements in three axes and thus determine position in space. A change in position in space can be detected by an acceleration sensor or an accelerometer sensor such as Bosch's BMA400. There are also sensors that combine the two functions described above, such as the MO 416.H1X or MO416.H13 from Makersan.

The bend sensor 241 can also preferably be mounted as a body position sensor 24 on the heating and/or cooling plate 12, which is located closer to the body than the control unit 14. Curvature sensors 241 can detect the position of the body, in particular in the area of the shoulders and spine, and can easily detect the curvature of the spine or the rise or fall of the shoulders. The bend sensor 241 may have a length between 5 cm and 40 cm. The bend sensors 241 preferably have a length between 10 cm and 30 cm. its length from the coccyx to the cervical vertebrae. In addition, the bend sensors 241 can determine the position of the body in the shoulders, for example, from the left hand to the right hand. The bend sensor 241 can also be placed on the left shoulder and on the right shoulder. Instead of single long bend sensors 241, several shorter bend sensors 241 with a length of, for example, 1 cm to 5 cm, preferably 2 cm to 3 cm, can be located at the described points. A bend sensor 241, such as Spectra Symbo's SEN-10264, can be used to detect, for example, curvature of the spine or rising or falling shoulder. The bend sensor is a narrow strip 7.3 cm long and 6.3 mm wide. At rest, the applied resistance is 25 kΩ. The more bent the sensor, the more the resistance increases, which can be up to a maximum of 125 kΩ.

This means that body position sensors 24 can be used to detect, for example, deformities in body position. Deformations in terms of body position are, for example, a hump, a hollow back, shoulder tension, or misalignment of the shoulders or back. The body position of the person can then be determined from the measured values of various body position sensors.

In addition, the control unit 14 may include a signal processor 16 . The processor 16 signal processing may be located on or in the module 14 control. The signal processor 16 may be, for example, a processing means or a processing unit. The processing means can also be integrated, for example, into a device specialized in improving body posture, in particular into a mobile device. The processing means may also be integrated into a general purpose mobile device such as a tablet or smartphone or other mobile device. It is often no longer possible to distinguish between dedicated or generic mobile devices, since the functions can often be provided by software on the mobile device. Dedicated or general purpose mobile devices typically include at least one input unit, a display, processing means, sensors, communication means, and a power storage device.

Depending on the body position data or the signal from the body position sensor 24, the signal processor 16 may determine the position of the body. Depending on the position of the body determined by the signal processor 16, the signal processor 16 may generate a control signal to control the electrical power source 22 . The control signal for controlling the electrical power source 22 may in turn be an analog or digital electrical signal that is generated by the signal processor 16 . The signal may be provided or output by signal processor 16 as a wired signal over an electrical line, or as a wireless signal or radio signal. The signal processor 16 can also directly output more or less electrical power that has been generated or stored by the electrical power source 22 .

The signal processor 16 may be configured to receive body position data. The signal processor 16 may be configured to receive body position data in the form of a signal or an electrical signal. The signal may be a wired signal over an electrical line, or a wireless or radio signal. Preferably, the signal reception in the signal processor 16 is coordinated with the signal output by the body position sensor(s) 24, 241.

The heating and/or cooling plate 10 or the control unit 14 may include a radio unit 36 for transmitting and/or receiving data. The radio unit may be located on the control unit 14 . The radio unit 36 may also be integrated or housed in, for example, a signal processor 16 or processor. The radio unit 36 may communicate between the heating and/or cooling devices 10 and/or the mobile device. All electronics (except for some sensors) can be located on the control unit 14.

The heating and/or cooling plate 12 may be configured to receive electrical current from an electrical power source 22 or from a signal processor 16 . The heating and/or cooling plate 12 may be connected to an electrical power source 22 or signal processor 16 via electrical lines that may carry electrical power or current. Heating and/or cooling plate 12 may include temperature sensors 38, bend sensors 241, electrodes 40, heating and/or cooling element 26 (heating film/heating mesh), adhesive surface 1210 with adhesive, and connecting elements 18b, 20b.

The heating and/or cooling plate 12 can at least partially convert electrical energy into thermal energy and deliver it to the human body 28. The thermal energy supplied can have a relaxing or stimulating effect on the muscles and improve the position of the human body.

The energy that is delivered to the body by one or more heating and/or cooling plates 12 can also affect other body tissues such as adipose tissue. In particular, muscle contraction can activate the burning of adipose tissue in the body. It can also improve a person's well-being and improve body posture.

For example, the heating and/or cooling element 26 or the heating element in the heating and/or cooling plate 12 may comprise a film that is capable of converting electrical energy into thermal energy over more or less of its entire surface. As a heating film, for example, an electrically heated polyamide film such as RS film from Kapton can be used. The heating film ensures constant and efficient heat transfer. The heating and/or cooling element 26 may also include, for example, electrical conductors or wire mesh, configured to provide constant heat with less energy consumption. The heating and/or cooling element 26 can also convert electrical energy into thermal energy in a relatively small space and distribute heat over a larger area within or on the heating and/or cooling plate 12 through a good heat conductor such as a metal plate.

The electrodes 40 may be located on the heating and/or cooling plate 12 and the signal processor 16 may be configured to determine muscle tension using electromyography. The electrodes 40 can be used to measure potential changes in a muscle or group of muscles. The signal processor 16 may generate a control signal for controlling the electrical energy storage device 22 whose signal depends on muscle tension. For example, if the muscle is tense, the heating and/or cooling device 10 may be heated by supplying electrical energy from the electrical energy storage device 22 to the heating and/or cooling plate 12. The heating may stimulate the muscles.

The skin resistance can also be determined using the electrodes 40. By measuring the voltage between the two electrodes, the conductivity, resistance or impedance between the electrodes 40 and the human skin can be determined, for example, from the current flowing from the first electrode 40 to the second electrode 40. The conductivity or resistance value is also can be applied to the thermal and/or cold energy control device 110 using the signal processor 16 on the heating and/or cooling device 10.

The heating and/or cooling device 10 may include a vibration generator 42 that is configured to convert the electrical energy generated by the electrical energy source 22 into mechanical energy and to deliver the mechanical energy to the human body. Mechanical energy can be transmitted to the skin or human body in the form of vibrations. The vibrations may be generated by a vibration generator 42 which includes, for example, a motor and an unbalance. In case of imbalance, the center of gravity is not on the axis of rotation. The vibration generator can also be a linear motor that moves a mass back and forth, thereby creating vibrations. Vibrations can give a person an indication of, for example, the position of the body, or relax or loosen muscles with a massage.

The heating and/or cooling device 10 or the heating and/or cooling plate 12 may also include a temperature sensor 38 . Depending on the location of the heating and/or cooling device 10 or the heating and/or cooling plate 12, the temperature sensor 38 may detect the skin temperature or body temperature of the person. The temperature sensor 38 may also detect the temperature of the heating and/or cooling plate 12. The temperature sensor 38 may be coupled to the signal processor 16 and provide temperature data to the signal processor 16 based on the measured temperature value of the temperature sensor 38. Depending on the temperature data, the signal processor 16 may generate a control signal for the control device 110 of the electrical power source 22 . Depending on the temperature value detected by the temperature sensor 38, the energy output from the power source 22 to the heating and/or cooling element 26 can thereby be controlled, or the electrical power supply to the heating plate 12 can be controlled.

Both the heating and/or cooling plate 12 and the control unit 14 are shown in FIG. 1 round. If standard 80 mm diameter gel plates are used, the control unit 14 is preferably made to a smaller diameter of approximately 60-70 mm, preferably 62-68 mm.

However, the heating and/or cooling plate 12 and the control unit 14 may also have an oval or polygonal shape. Both the heating and/or cooling plate 12 and the control unit 14 may also have a rectangular or square shape, for example with pointed or rounded corners. Both the heating and/or cooling plate 12 and the control unit 14 can be of any shape. The heating and/or cooling plate 12 and the control unit 14 may also have different shapes. For example, the control unit 14 may be circular and the heating and/or cooling plate 12 may be an elongated rectangular shape.

In FIG. 9 shows a heating plate 12 which contains heating elements 26 containing resistive conductors. This figure is a top view of the top side 122 of the heating plate. Not all details are shown for clarity.

The general shape of the heating plate 12 is approximately square with rounded corners. In this configuration, eight approximately triangular heating elements 26 are provided: P, Q, R, S, T, U, V, and W. Each extends from a position near the center to a position closer to the periphery of the plate 12. Each of the eight heating elements 26 additionally divided into two parts: a part near the center of the plate 12, and the conductors are relatively close to each other (small distance) - these are the areas P1, Q1, R1, S1, T1, U1, V1 and W1 - and another part near the periphery of the plate 12, with conductors relatively far away (greater distance) are areas P2, Q2, R2, S2, T2, U2, V2 and W2. These parts of each heating element 26 are electrically connected: P1 and P2 / Q1 and Q2 / R1 and R2 / S1 and S2 / T1 and T2 / U1 and U2 / V1 and V2 / W1 and W2. This means that when current is applied to each of the heating elements 26, areas near the center heat up faster than the peripheral areas.

In the middle of the plate 12 are six electrical 18b and magnetic 20b connections having two different sizes: two large connections A and B and four smaller connections 1, 2, 3, 4. In this configuration, the connections 18b, 20b have an axis of symmetry, so that the plate 12 can be connected in one of two directions. The use of two much larger connections A, B (approximately twice the diameter of the smaller connections 1, 2, 3, 4) means that other orientations and possible misconnections are at least less likely, and some incorrect connections become impossible.

The temperature sensor, marked with the letter T, is also in the center, and this sensor is made and located with the ability to measure the temperature 38 near the skin.

For clarity, the control unit 14 is not shown, but has the corresponding electrical 18a and magnetic 20a connectors shown, which correspond to the connectors 18b, 20b. Therefore, these connections create a physical and electrical connection by coating the appropriately sized magnets with a conductive metal such as chromium, gold, or platinum. A suitable cover (not shown) may be provided on the top layer 122 of the heating plate 12 - with holes having the same dimensions as the connections 18a, 20a of the control units 14, or the connections 18b, 20b of the heating plate 12, notches are provided to facilitate the alignment of the two parts of compounds 18a-18b and 20a-20b.

Depending on the number of different electrical connections required, one or more of the magnetic connectors 20a, 20b can be made as a purely magnetic connection and not as an electrical connection, for example, connections A and B can be exclusively magnetic 20a, 20b, while 1, 2, 3, 4 are both magnetic 20a, 20b and electrical 18a, 18b, which create four different electrical connections between the control unit 14 and the heating plate 12.

In the simplest configuration, all heating elements 26 operate in parallel and require only two electrical connectors 18a, 18b. To avoid unwanted heating of the connecting elements 18a, 18b, more than one connection can be used for each channel, for example, A, 1, 2 are connected on one side of each heating element 26, and B, 3, 4, are connected on the other side of each heating element 26 .

In the embodiment shown, six different electrical connectors are provided. By connecting each electrical connector 18b to at least two heating element terminals, the electrical energy in each heating element 26 can be set and controlled:

1 to A => heating element P (26)

1 to B => heating element Q (26)

2 to A => heating element R (26)

2 to B => heating element S (26)

3 to A => heating element T (26)

3 to B => heating element U (26)

4 to A => heating element V (26)

5 to B => heating element W (26).

Since the heating plates 12 must be disposed of after a number of uses, it may be beneficial to keep the number of connectors, and hence connectors, as low as possible in order to reduce costs.

In the configuration shown in FIG. 9, the heating elements 26 have been arranged in different successive segments that extend around the periphery of the heating plate 12. Alternatively or additionally, various concentric heating elements 26 may be provided.

The temperature sensor 38 (T) may use two or more electrical connections 18b, depending on the type of sensor and the number of control signals to be supplied by the additional heating element 26.

A similar configuration can also be provided for the cooling plate if the resistive conductors have been replaced by cooling elements 26 of an appropriate size, such as Peltier elements.

In FIG. 5a and 5b show a person with several heating and/or cooling devices 10 adhered or attached to the body 28. In FIG. 5a shows a person in front view. One heating and/or cooling device 10 is placed on each of the right and left thighs. Two other heating and/or cooling devices 10 are located above the chest. The heating and/or cooling devices 10 may be placed or attached anywhere on the body. Preferably, heating and/or cooling devices 10 may be placed on the skin over underlying muscles or muscle groups that are spasmodic or tense. The heat of the heating and/or cooling devices 10 can help relax the muscles. The heating and/or cooling device 10 can also be applied to all trigger points of the body (eg, thighs, back, etc.).

In medicine, the following effects are associated with heat: muscle relaxation, improved blood circulation, reduced viscosity of synovial fluid, improved elasticity of collagenous connective tissue, and pain relief. The heating and/or cooling devices 10 can combat or relieve pain or tension, where applicable. Heat therapy should not be used in inflammatory processes, such as inflammatory rheumatism (acute outbreaks) and in acute diseases that are accompanied by the body's own heat production (local inflammation, redness, overheating, fever).

The heating and/or cooling device 10 should be located on the human body 28 in such a way that the contracted muscles located under the skin of the body 28 are stimulated, i.e., they can be supplied with thermal and/or cold energy from the heating and/or cooling device 10. C By means of the heating and/or cooling device 10, energy or heat and/or cold energy can be delivered to the human body 28 or contracted muscles. The more precisely the heating and/or cooling device 10 is positioned over the contracted or contracted muscles, the more accurately the indicated energy can be delivered to the contracted muscle. Thus, losses due to unnecessary release of energy can be reduced in places where there are no tense muscles, and overall energy consumption can be reduced by efficient application of energy. Batteries therefore last longer. Preferably, the heating plate 10 is placed as close to or directly on the body as possible in order to transfer energy to the body with as little loss as possible.

Heating and/or cooling device 10 may be placed in the neck or spine. Tension or spasms or constant muscle contractions often occur in the neck and/or spine. The heating and/or cooling devices 10 deliver thermal energy to the affected areas or muscles, which relaxes them. Thus, the muscle in the human body can be relaxed. The energy entering the human body can cause a change in muscle contraction under the human skin. By placing it in this area, energy can be delivered to suffering areas with little loss.

Heating and/or cooling devices 10 may also be placed on parts of the body so that inferences can be made about the position of the person, such as on the shoulders or spine or near the shoulder or spine. Of course, at least one body position sensor may also be located in each of the shoulder region and the back region. The area of the neck, shoulders and spine is particularly suitable for determining the position of the human body. Preferably, the position sensors are located as close to or directly on the body as possible in order to keep measurement errors as small as possible when obtaining position data or to avoid measurement errors.

The heating and/or cooling devices 10 can also be used for various heat therapy scenarios (trigger point treatment). In this case, heat is delivered to trigger points on the body. The signal processor(s) may generate control signals according to a predetermined pattern to control the output of energy from the energy source to the heating and/or cooling element in the various heating and/or cooling devices 10. During treatment, the heating and/or cooling device 10 may be heated within a short time. Due to the arrangement of the heating and/or cooling devices 10 and the sequential heating of the heating and/or cooling devices 10, for example, a kind of heat wave movement can be generated on the body 28 of a person. This means, for example, that a plurality of heating and/or cooling devices 10 more or less connected in line are switched on one after the other. When the heating and/or cooling devices 10 are turned on or heated in series, a kind of wave motion is generated on the human body 28, or the coordinated heating of the heating and/or cooling devices 10 gives the impression of a heat wave that continues or propagates from one point. This undulating delivery of heat to the body can be used to achieve particularly effective muscle relaxation. The first heating and/or cooling device 10 can, for example, be supplied with electrical energy for 5 minutes to 2 hours, preferably 20 minutes to 1 hour, and thus maintain heat. The second heating and/or cooling device 10 is then supplied with electrical energy for a similar period of time and thus maintains heat. The first, third, or additional heating and/or cooling device 10 can then be heated and kept warm again.

The heating and/or cooling plate 14 may be continuously supplied with a specific energy, such as a specific voltage (eg, 5 volts (V)) or a specific current. The heating and/or cooling plate 14 may be supplied with a lower voltage (eg, 3 V) or a higher voltage (eg, 7 V) or current for the heating control device 110. It is also possible to control the heating and/or cooling plate 14 by direct current or voltage and by changing the on/off time (pulse-pause ratio) when said plate is heated. For example, the heating and/or cooling plate 12 may be electrically powered for 2 seconds and not electrically powered for 1 second. The heating of the heating and/or cooling plate can be controlled by the ratio of time between power on and power off. The duration for an optimal pulse-pause ratio depends on the heat capacity of the heating element and can range from milliseconds to several minutes.

In this case, the heating of individual heating and/or cooling devices 10 or heating and/or cooling pads can be controlled autonomously and intelligently among themselves. This means that each heating and/or cooling device 10 can control its own temperature or receive control commands. The heating and/or cooling device 10 may transmit or receive data from its sensors and/or its operating status to, for example, other heating and/or cooling devices 10. The intelligent heat distribution may be generated by artificial intelligence. Thus, a choice of different heat therapy scenarios can be provided. Software and/or artificial intelligence can be used to expand and adjust the system as needed.

Depending on the position of the body or incorrect position of the body, energy or heat and/or cold can be distributed by the heating and/or cooling devices at a certain time unevenly or intelligently, so that the individual heating and/or cooling elements of the heating and/or cooling plate are simultaneously supplied with different amounts energy. Energy can also be supplied in a time-varying manner, so that the heating and/or cooling elements are supplied with energy one after the other. As a result, pain can be reduced and tensions can be relieved. The signal processor may be configured to determine the position of the human body based on the body position data and control the delivery of electrical current to at least one of the heating and/or cooling elements. The body data may be obtained from at least one body position sensor. This body data may be passed to a signal processor. Depending on the body data, the signal processor may generate a control signal that can control the energy output from the energy source to the heating and/or cooling element.

In FIG. 6 shows a system 30 for delivering heat and/or cold energy to the body of a living being using various heating and/or cooling devices 10. The system 10 may include at least two heating and/or cooling devices 10 containing a radio unit 36, heating and/or cooling. or cooling devices 10 configured to send data and/or receive data. The heating and/or cooling devices 10 can also be cabled, for example, to each other and/or to the central power source 22 and/or signal processor 16 . The heating and/or cooling devices 10 may also be connected to each other to exchange data, for example, via a radio link 32. The data may be body position data, temperature data, power source 22 control data, signal processing data, sensor data, data control, operating data or any other data. Data may be sent from the first heating and/or cooling device 10 to the second heating and/or cooling device 10. Thus, the heating and/or cooling devices 10 may communicate with each other to form a system 30 or a network 30. The connection may be performed, for example, via a radio channel 32, via a Piconet such as Bluetooth, RF24, RF32, ANT or NFC (short range communication). The heating and/or cooling devices 10 may also be connected to each other or to a central control or power source via electrical lines.

Typically, heating and/or cooling devices 10 may take a variety of forms, as shown in FIG. 6. In particular, the heating and/or cooling devices 10 may be round, oval, square, or any other shape, preferably adapted to the shape of the muscles to be stimulated.

In FIG. 7 shows a system 30 for delivering heat and/or cold energy to a body 28 using a mobile device 34. System 30 may include at least one first heating and/or cooling device 10 and at least one second heating and/or cooling device. 10 and a mobile device 34. The first and second heating and/or cooling devices 10 and the mobile device 34 are capable of communicating with each other. Each of the illustrated heating or cooling devices 10 may be configured to send data to mobile device 34 and/or receive data from mobile device 34. Heating and/or cooling device 10 may be connected to mobile phone 34 for communication via radio unit 36. The data, in turn, may be body position data, temperature data, power source 22 control data, signal processing data, sensor data, control data, operating data, or any other data. Said data may be sent from the heating and/or cooling device 10 to the mobile phone 34 or to another heating and/or cooling device 10. Thus, the heating and/or cooling devices 10 can communicate between the mobile phone 34 or other heating and/or cooling devices. or coolers 10 to form a system 30 or network 30. The connection may be established, for example, over a radio link 32, via a Piconet such as Bluetooth, RF24, RF32, ANT or NFC (short range communication). Instead of mobile phone 34, a smartphone or tablet, or a mobile device specifically designed to improve body posture, can also be used. The heating and/or cooling devices 10 may also be connected, for example, to the mobile device 34 or to a power source via electric lines.

Using a mobile device such as a smartphone or tablet, data can be acquired, evaluated or displayed using a software application (application). The signal processor 16 may also be partially or wholly located in the mobile device 34. The mobile device 34 may include a signal processor 16 that receives body position data via the mobile device interface 34, such as from a body position sensor. However, the mobile device 34 can also receive processed data from the signal processor 16 on the interface and, for example, display or store said data. The mobile device 34 can also receive on its interface, for example, body position data partially processed by the signal processor 16 and further process said data.

The app can be used to give a person tips on how to improve their body position. The application can also be used to manually control and energize individual heating and/or cooling devices 10, or to mark areas on the body 28 that a person perceives as being tense and wants to provide them with heat and/or cold energy to relax said areas. An intelligent, autonomous heating mode can also be set. The microcontroller-based and thus intelligent control device 110 can supply or heat the heating and/or cooling plate 12 of the heating and/or cooling device 10 based on stored data and algorithms. The user can also define thermal patterns, for example by drawing or modifying lines on a graph. It is also possible to first calibrate the system 30 for an abnormal body position, such as due to a congenital deformity or disease. Deviations from this pre-existing incorrect body position can be detected and processed.

The application may also recommend to the person or user how to improve their body position, for example by showing them in a graphical or textual way how to improve their body position. The application can also give the person or user suggestions for gymnastic exercises, for example, to improve body position. The application can also provide the person with information from the Internet, which, for example, helps the person improve their posture. In addition, the application can also provide information about the false position of the person's body or suggestions for improvement for the person, such as through a movie.

Improvement of a person's body position can be achieved by consciously changing the position of the person's body, for example, informing the person of an unfavorable body position through vibration or electrical impulses from the heating and/or cooling device 10 or using the display 101 on the mobile device 34. However, the improvement in body position or correcting the wrong body posture can also occur unconsciously for the person by relaxing individual muscles or muscle groups by supplying energy from the heating and/or cooling plate 10.

In FIG. 8a shows the contours of the upper body 28 of a living being on the display 101 of a mobile device 34 such as a smartphone. The silhouette on the display 101 may represent heating and/or cooling devices 10 and/or body position sensors 24 located on the body 28. The person who uses the system 30 to deliver heat and/or cold energy to the body 28 of a living person may be named by the user. The user can, for example, enter, check or change the location of the body position sensors 24 or heating and/or cooling devices 10 on the body. The person 28 can also influence or control the supply of electrical energy or the rate at which thermal energy is delivered to the body 28, for example, through the touch screen 101 of the mobile device 34. The effect of the energy output is shown, for example, with a plus sign and a minus sign on the display 101 of the mobile device. 34. By touching the plus sign, the user can, for example, increase the energy output. By touching the minus sign, the user can, for example, reduce the energy output.

In FIG. 8b shows the upper body 28 of a living being on the display 101 of a mobile device 34 such as a smartphone. The display 101 may, for example, show the user his body position as detected by the system. The display 101 may also show the user how to improve their body posture. The output of suggestions for improvement can be supplemented with symbols or can be animated.

In FIG. 8c again shows the upper body 28 of a living being on the display 101 of a mobile device 34 such as a smartphone. As a mobile device 34, the smartphone can provide the user with recommendations for improving body posture. Suggestions may include, for example, movements or gymnastic exercises to be performed by the user. Said suggestions may be sent to the user at a predetermined time interval so that, for example, the user is reminded or asked to perform a movement or gymnastic exercise at a certain time once a day. The exercises help the user, for example, to relax tense muscles or to strengthen the muscles and thereby improve body posture. Exercise can be described as active measures. Exercises can be personalized for a specific user or for a specific false body position, automatically compiled and output. Regular notification motivates more traffic. It can counteract chronic tension and pain.

The combination of active and passive measures leads to a healthy and correct body posture. The constant concentrated heat relieves tension so that the body can return to its natural body position. As a result, there are no long-term negative consequences.

In embodiments, the heating and/or cooling plate 12 may contain a hypoallergenic or skin-friendly gel adhesive. This reduces the risk of an allergic skin reaction (hypoallergenic). In addition, the electrical power source 22 may be rechargeable and therefore may be more resource-saving than a conventional thermal patch. Since the heating and/or cooling plate 12 generates heat with electrical energy and not, as in the case of a thermal patch, by a chemical reaction, there is less risk of an allergic reaction to chemicals with the proposed heating and/or cooling device 10.

The heating and/or cooling device 10 may also be referred to as a heating pad, heating plate, heating layer, thermal patch, heating mat, or heating pad. The heating and/or cooling device 10 may be designed to locally, positionally deliver thermal energy to the skin. The heating and/or cooling device 12 may also be referred to as a heating patch or heating patch. The control unit may also be referred to as a control overlay.

In embodiments, the heating and/or cooling device 10 may also be configured to deliver energy to the body in various forms. Delivery of various forms of energy to the body can be simultaneous or sequential. In a first step, for example, thermal energy can be delivered to the human body 28 by means of a heating and/or cooling device 10. In a second step, the same heating and/or cooling device 10 can, for example, provide mechanical or electrical energy to the human body. Through stimulation with various forms of energy (mechanical, thermal, electrical) it is possible to achieve faster and longer muscle relaxation.

Some aspects have been described in connection with the device, but these aspects may also constitute a description of the corresponding method, so that a block or element of the device can also be understood as a corresponding method step or as a feature of a method step.

Accordingly, the aspects described in connection with or as a step of the method also constitute a description of the respective block or part, or features of the respective device. Some or all of the process steps may be performed using a hardware device such as a smartphone, microcontroller, programmable computer, or electronic circuit. In some examples, some or more of the major steps of the method may be performed by such hardware.

Depending on the requirements of the embodiments, embodiments of the invention may be implemented in hardware or software. The implementation can be carried out using a digital storage medium, such as a flash card, memory card, DVD, Blu-ray disc, CD, ROM, PROM, EPROM, EEPROM or flash memory, hard disk or any other magnetic or optical storage device. , which stores electronically readable control signals that can or interact with a programmable computer system in such a way that the specified method is performed. Therefore, the digital data carrier can be machine readable.

Thus, embodiments according to the present invention may include a storage medium that contains electronically readable control signals capable of interfacing with a programmable computer system such that one of the methods described herein can be implemented.

Embodiments of the present invention may be implemented as a computer program containing program code, wherein the program code may perform one of the methods when the computer program is executed on the computer. The program code may, for example, also be stored on a computer-readable medium.

Other embodiments comprise a computer program for performing one of the methods described herein, the computer program being stored on a computer-readable medium.

Thus, an embodiment of the method according to the invention is expressed differently as a computer program containing program code for performing one of the methods described herein when the computer program is executed on a computer. The storage medium, digital data medium, or recorded data medium is typically tangible or non-volatile.

Furthermore, another embodiment of the methods of the invention is a storage medium (either a digital data medium or a computer-readable medium) on which a computer program for performing one of the methods described herein is stored.

An additional embodiment of the method in accordance with this invention is a data stream or sequence of signals representing a computer program for performing one of the methods described herein. The data stream or sequence of signals may, for example, be configured to be transmitted over a data link, such as the Internet.

An additional embodiment comprises a processing device, such as a computer, tablet, smartphone, or programmable logic device, configured or adapted to perform one of the methods described herein.

Another embodiment includes a computer on which a computer program is installed to perform one of the methods described herein.

Another embodiment in accordance with the present invention comprises an apparatus or system capable of transmitting a computer program for performing at least one of the methods described herein to a receiver. The transmission may be electronic or optical. The receiver may be, for example, a computer, mobile device, storage device, or the like. For example, the device or system may include a file server for transferring a computer program to a recipient.

In embodiments, a programmable logic device (such as a field programmable gate array (FPGA)) may be used to perform some or all of the functions of the method described herein. In some embodiments, a user-programmable gate array may interface with a microcontroller to implement one of the methods described herein. In general, for some embodiments, the methods are implemented by any hardware device. This may be general purpose hardware such as a computer processor (CPU) or method specific hardware such as an ASIC.

The embodiments described above are merely illustrative of the principles of the present invention. Modifications and changes to the devices and parts described herein may be apparent to others skilled in the art. Therefore, the invention should only be limited by the scope of the claims below, and not by the specific details provided in the description and explanation of the embodiments provided herein.

List of reference numbers

10 heating and/or cooling device

12 heating and/or cooling plate

121 underside of heating and/or cooling plate

1210 adhesive surface

122 top side of heating and/or cooling plate

14 control unit

16 signal processor

18 electrical connector

18a electrical connector on the control box

18b electrical connector on heating and/or cooling plate

20 magnetic connector

20a mechanical and/or magnetic connector on the control box

20b mechanical and/or magnetic connector on heating and/or cooling plate

22 source of electrical energy

24 body position sensor

241 bend sensor

26 heating or cooling element

28 body

30 system, network

32 radio links

34 mobile device

36 radio block

38 temperature sensor

40 electrodes

42 vibration generator

101 displays

102 antenna

104 charging circuit

107 skin detection sensor

108 analog to digital converter

109 security and protection tracking device

110 microcontroller

112 PWM power controller

113 current, voltage, energy and/or power tracking device

114 additional stimulants

116 additional analog sensors and detectors

117 additional digital sensors and detectors

Claims (25)

1. Heating and cooling device (10) for delivering heat and cold energy to a human or animal body (28), containing: a heating and cooling plate (12) connected to the human or animal body (28), which has an upper side (122) and a lower side (121), and on the lower side (121) of which an adhesive surface (1210) is provided for attaching a heating and cooling plate (12) to the skin surface of the human or animal body (28), and which contains at least one heating element (26) and at least one cooling element, with the help of which the electrical energy generated by the source (22) of electrical energy, can be converted into heat and cold energy; control unit (14), which is configured to receive an energy source (22), which contains a signal processor (16) and which is configured to output an open-loop and/or closed-loop control signal, through which energy from the source (22) ) energy output to at least one heating element (26) and at least one cooling element controlled in an open loop and/or closed loop manner; while the heating and cooling plate (12) and the control unit (14) are electrically and mechanically connected to each other by at least one electrical connector (18), through which electrical energy is transmitted to at least one heating element (26) and at least one cooling element and at least one magnetic connector (20); And wherein the heating and cooling plate (12) has a square overall shape with rounded corners and the overall shape contains eight triangular heating elements (26) containing heating conductors, wherein each heating element (26) extends from the center of the square overall shape to the periphery of the square overall shape of the heating and cooling plate (12) and wherein each of the eight heating elements (26) contains two parts, in particular a part in the center of the heating and cooling plate (12) and an additional part on the periphery of the heating and cooling plate (12), wherein the heating conductors of the parts in the center have a smaller distance from each other than the heating conductors of the parts on the periphery of the heating and cooling plate (12), so that all parts are electrically connected to each other in such a way that when current is supplied to each of the heating elements (26), the parts in the center heat up more quickly than the parts on the periphery. 2. Heating and cooling device (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that the heating and cooling plate (12) and the control unit (14) are electrically and mechanically connected to each other by means of: - an additional electrical connector (18) through which electrical energy is transmitted to at least one heating element (26) and at least one cooling element, and - additional magnetic connector (20). 3. Heating and cooling device (10) according to one of paragraphs. 1, 2, characterized in that the source (22) of electrical energy and at least one heating element (26) and at least one cooling element are made with the possibility of heating and/or cooling the heating and cooling plate (12) by 20 K less than 1 minute, preferably less than 20 seconds, particularly preferably less than 5 seconds. 4. Heating and cooling device (10) according to one of paragraphs. 1-3, characterized in that the heating and cooling device (10) contains at least one body position sensor (24, 241), and the body position sensor (24, 241) is configured to detect body position and/or movement body of a human or animal (28) at least partially, as well as to generate body position data, and by means of body position data control the energy output from the energy source (22) to at least one heating element (26) and at least at least one cooling element, in an open-loop and/or closed-loop manner. 5. Heating and cooling device (10) according to one of paragraphs. 1-4, characterized in that the heating and cooling device (10) contains a radio unit (36) for transmitting and/or receiving data. 6. Heating and cooling device (10) according to one of paragraphs. 1-5, characterized in that the heating and cooling device (10) comprises a temperature sensor (38), which is configured to generate temperature data, and the signal processor (16) is configured to generate an open loop control signal and/or with a closed loop for the control device (110) with an open loop and/or with a closed loop source (22) of electrical energy depending on the temperature data. 7. Heating and cooling device (10) according to one of paragraphs. 1-6, characterized in that the electrodes (40) are located on the underside of the heating and cooling plate (12), and the signal processor (16) is configured to determine muscle tension using electromyography and/or determine skin resistance using conductivity measurement . 8. Heating and cooling device (10) according to one of paragraphs. 1-7, characterized in that the adhesive surface (121) of the heating and cooling plate (12) contains an adhesive, preferably a pressure-sensitive adhesive. 9. Heating and cooling device (10) according to one of paragraphs. 1-8, characterized in that the adhesive is gel-like. 10. Heating and cooling device (10) according to one of paragraphs. 1-9, characterized in that the heating and cooling plate (12) is a disposable element, and the control unit (14) is a reusable element. 11. Heating and cooling device (10) according to one of paragraphs. 1-10, characterized in that the heating and cooling device (10) contains a vibration generator (42), which is configured to convert the electrical energy generated by the source (22) of electrical energy into mechanical energy, which is transmitted to the human or animal body (28 ). 12. System (30) for delivering heat and cold energy to the body of a human or animal (28) to relax the muscles of the body, comprising: at least one first heating and/or cooling device (10) according to claim 1 and at least one second heating and cooling device (10) according to claim 1 and a mobile device (34) that are suitable for communicating with the first heating and a cooling device (10). 13. Control method with open loop and closed loop heating and/or cooling device (10) according to one of paragraphs. 1-11, which is configured to deliver heat and cold energy to the human or animal body (28) and which contains a control unit (14) and a heating and cooling plate (12), which is connected to the human or animal body (28) and is equipped with at least one heating element (26) and at least one cooling element, moreover, the control unit and the plate are electrically and mechanically connected to each other, while the control signal is generated by the control unit (14), through which the control signal controls the energy output from the energy source (22) to at least one heating element (26) and at least one cooling element. 14. The method according to claim 13, characterized in that the position of the body of a human or animal (28) is measured and determined in the control unit (14) by means of sensors (24) of the position of the specified body and from it the control signal is calculated to control the output of heating and cooling such so that the position of the specified body is corrected. 15. A computer-readable medium containing a computer program code for carrying out the method of claim 13 or 14, when the computer program code is executed on a computer or processor.

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