WO2018165696A1 - Gilet ou sac à dos à double fonction d'hydratation et de thermorégulation - Google Patents

Gilet ou sac à dos à double fonction d'hydratation et de thermorégulation Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2018165696A1
WO2018165696A1 PCT/AU2018/000033 AU2018000033W WO2018165696A1 WO 2018165696 A1 WO2018165696 A1 WO 2018165696A1 AU 2018000033 W AU2018000033 W AU 2018000033W WO 2018165696 A1 WO2018165696 A1 WO 2018165696A1
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WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
hydration
vest
thermo
regulation
backpack
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/AU2018/000033
Other languages
English (en)
Inventor
Daniel John GREEN
Original Assignee
28 Sporting Innovations Pty. Ltd.
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Priority claimed from AU2017900866A external-priority patent/AU2017900866A0/en
Application filed by 28 Sporting Innovations Pty. Ltd. filed Critical 28 Sporting Innovations Pty. Ltd.
Publication of WO2018165696A1 publication Critical patent/WO2018165696A1/fr

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Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A41—WEARING APPAREL
    • A41D—OUTERWEAR; PROTECTIVE GARMENTS; ACCESSORIES
    • A41D13/00—Professional, industrial or sporting protective garments, e.g. surgeons' gowns or garments protecting against blows or punches
    • A41D13/002—Professional, industrial or sporting protective garments, e.g. surgeons' gowns or garments protecting against blows or punches with controlled internal environment
    • A41D13/005—Professional, industrial or sporting protective garments, e.g. surgeons' gowns or garments protecting against blows or punches with controlled internal environment with controlled temperature
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
    • A45F—TRAVELLING OR CAMP EQUIPMENT: SACKS OR PACKS CARRIED ON THE BODY
    • A45F3/00—Travelling or camp articles; Sacks or packs carried on the body
    • A45F3/04—Sacks or packs carried on the body by means of two straps passing over the two shoulders
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
    • A45F—TRAVELLING OR CAMP EQUIPMENT: SACKS OR PACKS CARRIED ON THE BODY
    • A45F3/00—Travelling or camp articles; Sacks or packs carried on the body
    • A45F3/16—Water-bottles; Mess-tins; Cups
    • A45F3/20—Water-bottles; Mess-tins; Cups of flexible material; Collapsible or stackable cups
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
    • A45F—TRAVELLING OR CAMP EQUIPMENT: SACKS OR PACKS CARRIED ON THE BODY
    • A45F3/00—Travelling or camp articles; Sacks or packs carried on the body
    • A45F3/16—Water-bottles; Mess-tins; Cups
    • A45F2003/166—Hydration systems attached to the body by straps, e.g. incorporated in a backpack

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a dual function hydration and thermo-regulation vest or backpack. More particularly, the present invention relates to a dual function hydration and thermo-regulation vest or backpack that provides concurrent external and internal thermo-regulation.
  • Hydration vests and backpacks are also a convenient way of carrying fluid that frees up the hands and allows a slightly larger volume to be carried. A wide variety of such hydration vests and backpacks are commercially available.
  • US 8,020,730 assigned to The North Face Apparel Corp. teaches a personal hydration system comprising a reservoir that has a plurality of compartments and optionally at least one baffle.
  • the purpose of the at least one baffle is to provide multiple smaller compartments with the objective of reducing slosh.
  • the baffle may be removable and have a low freezing point to allow pre-refrigeration to keep the hydration liquid cool.
  • US Patent No.: 7,311,231 assigned to Blackhawk Industries Product Group Unlimited LLC teaches a hydration pack with a releasable coupling.
  • the coupling includes a shut-off or check valve that maintains the patency of the pouch when the hose is disconnected.
  • Prefilled, removable hydration pouches may be coupled to the hose for easy substitution.
  • This pack conveniently makes use of heated or refrigerated pouches and adds the option of the pouch including an integral thermal (cooling) medium. Pockets adjacent to the pouch may be filled with a thermal capacitance medium.
  • the integrally cooled (or heated) pouches of US 09/653,816 and 10/043,657 are referred to.
  • This patent discusses materials for the reservoir to be polyethylene (sold as CXC material produced by Cyclone (Logan, Utah)), urethane, polyurethane, polystyrene and nylon.
  • the covering comprises a first layer configured to be in thermal communication with the reservoir and/or elongate member, and a second layer including the liquid absorbent material.
  • the liquid absorbent material consists of a matrix of liquid absorbent crystals.
  • the liquid absorbent material may be a hydrogel. That surface of the second layer may be undulating and may include an antimicrobial portion.
  • the liquid absorbent material can be "charged" by immersion in water or the liquid to ensure cooling.
  • WO 02/17745 the publication of PCT/US01/27285 to Skillern, J., teaches a hydration system with an integral thermal medium. It includes a sealable sac or pouch closely associated with a cooling and/or heating medium.
  • a sealable sac or pouch closely associated with a cooling and/or heating medium.
  • One example is an outer insulating bag and an inner reservoir.
  • the pouch in preparation for use, the pouch is preferably chilled or heated and then filled with liquid to be consumed.
  • This publication teaches the importance of maintaining the fluid within the bladder or pouch at a cool (or warm) temperature.
  • the pouch may be provided by a first bag located within a second bag with the cooling and/or heating medium provided therebetween.
  • the thermal capacitance medium may be water, a gel or another material which can be repeatedly chilled and/or heated. Examples include water and propylene glycol or a cellulose ether, such as those used in commercially available gel packs for cooling and/or heating including NexpareTM and PolyBagTM. This publication also refers to US Patent No.: 5,806,726, to Ho, which teaches placing ice cubes in the reservoir.
  • WO 2004/033360 the publication of PCT/US2003/031283 also to Skillern, J., teaches a hydration system for a modular backpack allowing cargo components to be interchanged depending on the amount of fluid required.
  • An articulating waist belt allows the cargo component to remain stationary relative to the wearer's back.
  • conventional backpacks rest securely against the wearer's back trapping heat.
  • a "lift off module" is provided to space the pack from the wearer's back.
  • WO 2004/049846 the publication of PCT/US2003/038781, to SILVER EAGLE OUTFITTERS LLC describes a method of cooling by evaporation using hydrated multi- layered composite material that is cooled by evaporation.
  • the composite comprises a conductive layer, a filler layer, a retainer layer and, optionally, an outside protective layer.
  • a reservoir may be included to supply water or liquid.
  • US Patent No. 5864880 is referred to which discloses a jersey that comprises an enclosure for the removable insertion of a liquid-filled bladder. This patent notes that because most prior art hydration backpacks are thermally isolated from the wearer's body by the clothing over which the backpack is worn, cool liquid in the reservoir has minimal cooling effect.
  • WO 2006/122321 to ELKINS, et al teaches a personal cooling and hydration system which is worn by the user and provides cooling and a source of drinkable fluid.
  • a vest and cap or other garment is worn which includes a heat transfer fluid pathway extending therethrough. The heat transfer fluid passes through the pathway and absorbs heat from the wearer. A pump is required.
  • An example of a commercially available hydration vest is the Mountain Hardware Fluid Race Vest. This is a running vest with a built-in hydration system (bladder and routing tube). The vest is made of a cool wicking mesh, which holds a fluid sleeve with a hydration routing tube to access drinking fluids easily. The vest is ergonomically designed and distributes the weight of the fluid sleeve, fluid and contents of the cargo storage evenly across the upper body.
  • Another commercially available hydration system is the 2XU XTRM Multifusion Compression Top.
  • This product is a combined compression and hydration vest with expandable mesh pockets for a water bottle and nutrition. 'Sensor mesh' targeted panels allow airflow and breathability
  • An example of a multipurpose vest is the Ultimate Direction PB2.0. This vest has ten in-built pockets to hold gel packs (four pockets), a GPS and a phone device (two pockets) and electrolytes (four pockets). This vest has a quick reservoir access zipper, internal bungee, gear separation panel and pockets.
  • Fluid ingestion plays an important role in supporting exercise performance in the heat via the maintenance of fluid balance and fuel status. Beverage temperature is the major distinguishing factor influencing changes in body temperature, subsequently leading to improvements in athletic performance. In addition to the heat sink provided by cold beverages, there is also strong evidence to suggest a possible sensory effect of temperature provided by ingesting cold beverages.
  • a strategy devised to combat the debilitating effects of hyperthermia induced fatigue involves wearing a cooling garment.
  • the most common garments include vests, jackets, hoods and neck-wraps.
  • the effectiveness of these garments relies on the heat- transfer principles of conduction, convection, evaporation and radiation to temporarily offset the thermal equilibrium of the body.
  • Existing garment designs incorporate a number of design features to modulate the convective cooling of the torso by emphasising: i) fitted designs to increase the area of contact between the skin and the garment, ii) wet cooling to increase the rate of heat transfer between the body and the garment, and iii) silica-based gels to further promote evaporative cooling.
  • the practical benefit of wearing a cooling garment include that they allow athletes (including motor-sport), industrial workers, military personnel, race horses and Multiple Sclerosis patients to simultaneously cool while fulfilling desired work activities.
  • athletes including motor-sport
  • industrial workers including motor-sport
  • military personnel including motor-sport
  • race horses including race horses
  • Multiple Sclerosis patients may have an impact on the feasibility of using a cooling garment during some of these activities.
  • the thermoregulatory advantage achieved is largely dependent upon the duration of exposure and when the garment is used, i.e., before or during the required activity. Their use during exercise is highly dependent on how each garment can be effectively incorporated into outfits worn within regulations and without detriment to the outcome of performance.
  • cooling vest is a phase change cooling vest. These types of cooling devices use materials that go through phase change at a specific temperature, usually higher temperatures than zero degrees Celsius.
  • One example of this type of vest is available from First Line Technology, see: http://www.firstlinetech.com/product/std-basic- cooling-vest/.
  • silica-based gel cooling vests such as the Elite Sports Vest available from Arctic Heat Products Pty Ltd, established 1999, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia.
  • the Elite Sports Vest is a pullover vest with in-built cooling panels with dimensions 500 mm (height) by 450 mm (width) to achieve cooling of the torso.
  • the vest is immersed in water for fifteen minutes to hydrate the crystals to form a gel.
  • the vest is then placed into a freezer for subsequent use.
  • the potential cooling capacity of the gel is greatest when frozen, as the energy required to thaw it out is high relative to the energy required to change its temperature a few degrees.
  • the cooling capacity of the vest combines the convective cooling of the wetted vest plus the conductive cooling of the gel.
  • the vest incorporates a SportwoolTM fabric (developed by CSIRO and marketed by Woolmark Corporation) which is designed to wick-away perspiration to increase the rate of evaporation and promote additional cooling.
  • a SportwoolTM fabric developed by CSIRO and marketed by Woolmark Corporation
  • Four horizontal 30 mm wide enclosed pockets run over the chest and back of the torso of the wearer.
  • the pockets contain water-absorbing gel crystals, when hydrated produce a lightweight medium which can be reused to cool (and heat).
  • the area of skin contact of the wetted vest is more than double that of the gel pockets.
  • ice Due to its powerful heat transfer capacity, the application of ice directly to the skin has emerged as an effective cooling medium. Heat from the skin and surrounding tissues is absorbed by the ice and as a result, the ice changes to water through a process called fusion (melting). Based on the enthalpy of fusion theory, ice requires approximately eighty times more thermal energy to increase the temperature of water by one degree Celsius due to the phase-change that must occur when water changes from its solid to liquid state (at 0°C; 333.55 kJ vs. 4.18 kJ without phase change). As a result, cooling with ice may be achieved with lower amounts of skin contact area, at a faster rate and to a greater magnitude, when compared with water.
  • Ice offers practical advantages for cooling and can be incorporated into a range of garments to target specific regions of the body.
  • 'Ice-like' products such as phase-change, evaporative and silica-based gel materials provide alternative cooling options.
  • Ice pack cooling vests are also available. Examples include the FlexiFreeze Ice vest, Cold Shoulder Women's Vest and StaCool Under Vest http://www.stacoolvest.com/stacool-under-vest/). These products rely on cooling the external surface of the skin with inbuilt straps to maximise skin contact.
  • the FlexiFreeze Ice vest has flexible, re-freezable and removable ice sheets containing ninety-six ice cubes housed in a washable vest.
  • the ice sheets are insulated to the exterior of the vest by neoprene fabric to provide a soft, light weight and flexible finish.
  • the skin is insulated from the ice by the ice sheet and mesh-lined vest.
  • the vest is 3.5 lb (mass), less than 1 inch in thickness and has vertical zip to close and Velcro straps to secure and fit vest to torso.
  • the Cold Shoulder Women's Vest is a women's specific vest which drapes ice over the shoulders and back. This vest is aimed at promoting increasing energy expenditure through targeting brown adipose tissue.
  • a commercially available example of an evaporative cooling vest is the Techniche International Hyperkewl Cooling sports Vest.
  • This vest uses a 'Hyperkewl' material that, when immersed in water for five to ten minutes, slowly releases water to cool the body through evaporative means.
  • the outer lining of the vest features a quilted nylon outer with water repellent inside finish. The effectiveness of the vest is dependent on rate of evaporation, so would be inefficient at cooling in environmental conditions of high humidity.
  • embodiments of the present invention relate to a dual function hydration and thermo-regulation vest or backpack.
  • the invention in a broad form, relates to a dual function hydration and thermoregulation vest or backpack that concurrently provides both external and internal thermoregulation.
  • This dual functionality may be provided by a hydration reservoir contact wall which directly contacts a wearer or their apparel in use and a pouch, partly formed by the contact wall, which stores media for consumption.
  • a hydration and thermo-regulation vest or backpack comprising: a hydration reservoir comprising at least one pouch, the at least one pouch comprising a contact wall, that in use, contacts a wearer or the wearer's apparel.
  • the thermo-regulation may comprise cooling or heating.
  • the cooling may be with cold, chilled or frozen hydration media.
  • the heating may be with tepid, warm or hot hydration media.
  • the thermo-regulation may be concurrent external thermo-regulation across the contact wall and internal thermo-regulation through ingestion of hydration media in the hydration reservoir.
  • the external thermo-regulation may comprise the hydration reservoir directly physically contacting the outside surface of a user or their apparel.
  • the internal thermo-regulation may comprise the hydration media being ingested by the user and directly physically contacting the mouth and gastro-intestinal tract.
  • the at least one pouch may comprise a plurality of pouches.
  • the at least one pouch, each, or one or more, of the plurality of pouches may comprise a contact wall, which when in use, contacts a wearer or the wearer' s apparel.
  • the at least one pouch, each, or one or more, pouch contact wall contacts a wearer or the wearer' s apparel on one side and a hydration media on the other side.
  • the hydration reservoir and the at least one pouch may comprise one or more cell.
  • the cell, each, or one or more, cell may comprise a contact wall, which when in use, contacts a wearer or the wearer's apparel.
  • the cell, each, or one or more, cell contact wall contacts a wearer or the wearer's apparel on one side and a hydration media on the other side.
  • Each contact wall may comprise a contact surface and non-contact surface.
  • the hydration reservoir, the pouch, each pouch and each cell may also comprise a non-contact wall.
  • the non-contact wall comprises an internal surface and an external surface.
  • each pouch and each cell may also comprise sides, a top and a bottom.
  • the pouch retains hydration media for consumption to provide internal thermo-regulation.
  • the hydration media may be potable media.
  • the hydration media may comprise a fluid.
  • the hydration fluid may comprise water or a sports drink.
  • One or more of the cells may comprise a neck cell.
  • a plurality of neck cells may encircle or partially encircle a neck of the wearer. The plurality of neck cells may be spaced apart.
  • Each cell may comprise a geometric shape. Suitable shapes comprise circular; triangular; quadrilateral; pentagonal; hexagonal; or higher order shape. In a preferred embodiment each cell comprises a hexagonal shape.
  • the one or more cells may comprise a network of cells.
  • the plurality of pouches and/or cells may be separated by one or more flex zones which allows conformation to the shape of a wearer to maximise surface area contact.
  • Each of the flex zones may comprise a void or may comprise flexible material.
  • Each or one or more flex-zone may comprise a fabric void.
  • the fabric void may improve atmospheric thermo-regulation.
  • the cells may comprise a network in which the flex zones are a mixture of voids and flexible material.
  • the maximised or substantially maximised surface area contact may be maintained, at least temporarily, with frozen hydration media.
  • the at least one pouch may be repeatedly frozen and thawed.
  • the at least one pouch may be filled with warm hydration media to help keep a person warm.
  • the at least one pouch may be disposable.
  • the one or more pouch may be comprised of one or more of polyethylene (PE), Urethane, polyurethane (PU), polystyrene (PS) and Nylon.
  • the polyurethane may comprise a thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU).
  • the vest or backpack provides a hydration reservoir with increased or substantially increased contact surface area.
  • the vest or backpack provides increased or substantially increased surface area contact in targeted areas.
  • the targeted areas may be areas with high blood flow such as the neck and/or chest.
  • the reservoir may provide a surface area contact of 1,300 to 1,500 cm 2 with liquid hydration media or 1,000 cm 2 with frozen hydration media. This is a significant increase over conventional 1.5L hydration packs which provide a maximum of approximately 450 cm 2 (liquid state) and 200 cm 2 (frozen state), respectively, of surface area contact if the hydration bladder was able to be mounted directly on the wearer or wearer's apparel.
  • the hydration reservoir is integral with the vest or backpack to eliminate the need for an additional carrier. This further increases surface area contact and reduces weight.
  • the one or more pouch comprises insulation on the non-contact walls to assist in maintaining the stored hydration media at a thermoregulation temperature.
  • the insulation may comprise neoprene.
  • the reservoir comprises a line for hydration media flow.
  • the line may comprise a waistband.
  • the line may further comprise an opening for communication with a conduit.
  • the opening may be associated with one or more line valve and or a reservoir attachment.
  • the line may also comprise a filling point.
  • the hydration and thermo-regulation vest or backpack comprises a conduit.
  • the conduit may comprise a conduit attachment for joining and fluid communication with the reservoir attachment.
  • the conduit may further comprise a mouth piece.
  • the mouthpiece may comprise a mouthpiece valve.
  • the mouthpiece valve may comprise a bite valve.
  • the apparatus comprises an athletic hydration and thermoregulation vest or backpack suitable for athletic endeavours such as, but not limited to, running, motor sports and cycling.
  • the athletic embodiment may comprise light weight materials.
  • the apparatus comprises a heavy-duty hydration and thermoregulation vest or backpack suitable for industrial; life-saving; military; and/or commercial endeavours, including but not limited to activities such as firefighting and mining.
  • the industrial; life-saving; military; and/or commercial apparatus may comprise a larger reservoir and/or more durable materials.
  • the backpack may comprise two shoulder straps.
  • the vest or backpack may comprise inbuilt straps to maximise skin contact and secure in place.
  • the inbuilt straps may be on the front and/or sides.
  • the inbuilt straps may be adjustable.
  • the inbuilt straps may have quick release buckles.
  • the vest or backpack may comprise a zip on the front.
  • the pouch may comprise a capacity of 2 to 20 litres. Where the capacity is in the range of 5 to 20 litres, the vest or backpack may provide weight training. In the weight training embodiment, the cells may be thicker. A user could fill pouch to a desired volume/weight for resistance training.
  • the invention resides in a method for thermo-regulation of a subject comprising applying to the subject a vest or backpack comprising a hydration reservoir, the hydration reservoir comprising at least one pouch, the at least one pouch comprising a contact wall that contacts a wearer or the wearer's apparel to thereby thermo- regulate the subject.
  • the subject may be a human subject or a non-human subject.
  • the thermo-regulation may be in relation to athletic performance, work or safety, or in relation to medical or therapeutic treatment.
  • the method of the second aspect may use the vest or backpack according to the first aspect.
  • the invention resides in method of manufacturing a hydration and thermoregulation vest or backpack comprising providing a hydration reservoir comprising at least one pouch comprising a contact wall that in use contacts a wearer or the wearer's apparel.
  • the vest manufactured according to the third aspect may be the vest or backpack according to the first aspect.
  • FIG. 1A is a front perspective view of a hydration and thermo-regulation vest according to one embodiment of the invention.
  • Fig. IB is side view of a hydration and thermo-regulation vest according to one embodiment of the invention.
  • FIG. 1C is a partial side perspective view according to one embodiment of the invention.
  • FIG. ID is a front perspective view according to one embodiment of the invention.
  • FIG. IE is another front perspective view according to one embodiment of the invention.
  • FIG. IF is a side perspective view according to one embodiment of the invention.
  • FIG. 1G is another front perspective view according to one embodiment of the invention.
  • FIG. 1H is a front view according to one embodiment of the invention.
  • FIG. II is another side view according to one embodiment of the invention.
  • FIG. 1 J is another side view according to one embodiment of the invention.
  • FIG. 2A is a top perspective view of part of a reservoir according to one embodiment of the invention.
  • FIG. 2B is a top view of part of a reservoir according to one embodiment of the invention.
  • FIG. 3A shows an embodiment for testing according to one embodiment of the invention.
  • FIG. 3B shows the embodiment of FIG. 3A with tubes for drinking attached.
  • FIG. 4A shows four prototype vests in a zipped arrangement.
  • FIG. 4B shows four prototype vests in which the top vest is in an unzipped arrangement.
  • FIGS. 5A; 5B; 5C; 5D; 5E and 5F are photographs showing a prototype vest according to one embodiment of the invention in use.
  • the present invention relates to a dual function hydration and thermo-regulation vest or backpack.
  • the dual function hydration and thermo-regulation vest or backpack of the invention concurrently provides both external and internal thermoregulation.
  • the thermo-regulation may be concurrent external thermo-regulation across the contact wall and internal thermo-regulation through ingestion of hydration media in the hydration reservoir.
  • the present invention is at least partly predicated on the inventors' unexpected discovery that placing the hydration reservoir directly in contact with the wearer, or their apparel, efficiently thermo-regulates the wearer.
  • This thermo-regulation may be of particular advantage in sporting endeavours, including elite competition.
  • Other applications include as workwear or safety apparel in high or low temperature environments such as, mine sites or cold rooms.
  • Conventional hydration vests and backpacks provide a thick and insulated barrier between the skin and the hydration reservoir. Often, insulation or padding is provided that means frozen hydration media remains solid and will not flow for consumption even after desired by a wearer.
  • the design of current hydration reservoirs is not targeted at providing contact area, let alone maximising any contact, and if a hydration reservoir was actually able to be mounted directly onto the skin, or apparel, without the use of an accompanying pack, it would have an approximate contact area of between 300 and 400 cm 2 due to its shape. This contact area would decrease even more if the hydration media inside the reservoir was frozen as current reservoirs consist of a single chamber that would not be able to flex and conform to the shape of the body.
  • the apparatus of the invention may cover an increased wearer surface area. This optimises peripheral thermo-regulation through conduction with the skin.
  • the vest or backpack of the invention provides enhanced external thermo-regulation.
  • the user is also able to consume the contents of the reservoir which may provide significant internal thermo-regulation following the ingestion of hydration media. Additional thermo-regulation of the wearer may be achieved by cooling or heating the hydration media.
  • the hydration media may be frozen to provide additional cooling. As the frozen hydration media cools the wearer, it will transition to a liquid state in which it can flow and be ingested. Due to this possible phase transition, the hydration media may interchangeably be referred to as hydration fluid.
  • the vest or backpack of the invention has been designed specifically with the aim of providing thermo-regulation through two methods: externally via conduction; and internally via the ingestion of cold or cool hydration media.
  • the design may maximise the wearer contact area, with particular attention to areas with high blood flow such as, the chest and neck areas.
  • the external thermo-regulation may comprise the hydration reservoir directly physically contacting the outside surface of a user or their apparel.
  • the internal thermoregulation may comprise the hydration media being ingested by the user and directly, physically contacting the mouth and gastro-intestinal tract.
  • the reservoir is designed to be mounted on the body without the use of a separate enclosure so it sits directly on the skin or over the top of apparel, preferably, thin lightweight apparel which does not provide any significant thermal insulation between the skin and the reservoir.
  • the reservoir has been specifically designed to contain a network or plurality of hydration cells which provides flexibility, enabling it to conform to the shape of the wearer and retain maximum contact area with the skin even when the contents are frozen solid.
  • the reservoir has been designed to provide a surface area contact of 1,300 to 1,500 cm 2 for a 1.5L reservoir. This is in comparison to conventional current 1.5L hydration pack which is 31cm x 15cm and provides a maximum of 450 cm 2 of surface area contact if it was actually mounted directly against the skin without the use of the pack.
  • the design of the current reservoir permits skin surface area contact of 1,000 cm 2 , compared to the standard shape reservoir providing less than 200 cm 2 .
  • the pouch retains hydration media for consumption to provide internal thermo-regulation.
  • the hydration media may be potable media.
  • the hydration media may comprise a fluid.
  • the hydration fluid may comprise water or a sports drink.
  • the hydration media may be frozen.
  • FIGS. 1A to 1J show embodiments of a hydration and thermo-regulation vest 100 according to the invention.
  • Vest 100 comprises a reservoir 140 which can be filled with a hydration media.
  • the hydration media is retained in reservoir 140 by pouch 142.
  • pouch 142 comprise a plurality of cells 144.
  • Each cell 144 comprises a contact wall 146, which when in use, contacts a wearer or the wearer' s apparel.
  • the external thermoregulation effect achieved by the hydration media in reservoir 140 is advantageously more efficient. That is, there are no other layers between the contact wall 146 and the wearer or wearer's apparel.
  • hydration reservoir 140 comprises one or more pouches
  • Each pouch 142 may be comprised of a plurality of cells 144 or may comprise a singe cell 144.
  • Each of the plurality of pouches 142 and plurality of cells 144 comprise contact wall 146.
  • Each contact wall 146 comprises a contact surface 148, which, in use, touches the wearer, or their apparel, and a non-contact surface 150 which retains the hydration media.
  • Each of the plurality of pouches 142 and plurality of cells 144 also comprise a non-contact wall 152 which comprises an internal surface 154 which retains the hydration media and an external surface 156 which is exposed to the environment.
  • each cell 144 also comprises sides 158, a top 160 and a bottom 162. While cells 144 in FIGS. 1A to 1J are shown to be six- sided or hexagonal, in other embodiments they may have any other suitable shape. The hexagonal shape is advantageous for the inter- fitting of cells 144.
  • neck cell 144a is a longitudinal neck cell and when worn, forms a collar encircling or partially encircling the neck of the wearer.
  • This longitudinal neck cell may have a releasable closure to allow it to be fitted around the neck.
  • suitable releasable closures include a zipper and/or Velcro.
  • hydration reservoir 140 comprises a plurality of spaced apart neck cells 144a which encircle the neck of the wearer.
  • each cell 144 may comprise any suitable geometric shape. Suitable shapes comprise circular; triangular; quadrilateral; pentagonal; hexagonal; or higher order shape.
  • cells 144 are separated by one or more flex zone 170, which allows conformation to the shape of a wearer to maximise surface area contact. This maximised surface area contact may be maintained, at least temporarily, with frozen hydration media.
  • flex zones 170 to be comprised of voids in vest 100.
  • flex-zones 170 may be flexible material such as, materials used in athletic apparel such as, Lycra®.
  • flex zones 170 may be a combination of voids and flexible material.
  • the flex zones 170 are also shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B, which show a close up of the network of cells 144 joined by line 102 which carries the hydration media from storage to the user for ingestion.
  • one or more of flex zones 170 may comprise a fabric void.
  • the fabric voids may improve atmospheric thermo-regulation.
  • the line 102 joins each cell 144 so that hydration media can be delivered to a wearer.
  • the flow of the hydration media is mainly by gravity and may be assisted by wearer movement and suction applied through conduit 180 by the wearer.
  • a skilled persona readily understands that for the hydration media to flow along the line, it must not be solid or frozen. Any necessary thawing would result from use and heat transfer across the contact wall 146 and/or the non-contact wall 152.
  • line 102 comprises a waistband 104.
  • the waistband 104 may aid in achieving a comfortable fit and reducing or eliminating undesirable movement.
  • Line 102 further comprises a line opening 106 for communication with conduit 180.
  • Line opening 102 may be associated with one or more line valve 108 (not shown) and or a reservoir attachment 110.
  • the line 102 may also comprise a filling point 112 (not shown) for filing with hydration media.
  • Conduit 180 further comprises a conduit attachment 182 and a mouth piece 186.
  • the conduit attachment 182 may comprise a conduit attachment valve 184 (not shown).
  • the mouthpiece 186 may also comprise a mouthpiece valve 188.
  • the mouthpiece valve 188 may comprise a bite valve.
  • the one or more pouch 140 comprises insulation 164 on the non-contact walls 152 to assist in maintaining the stored hydration media at a thermo-regulating temperature.
  • Each individual cell 144 may be insulated or there may be a one-piece insulation 164 covering entire pouch 142.
  • the insulation 164 may comprise neoprene. From the teaching herein, a skilled person is readily able to select a suitably insulating material.
  • FIGS. 1A to 1J The embodiment shown in FIGS. 1A to 1J is particularly advantageous in that reservoir 140 is integral with the vest or backpack 100. This eliminates the need for an additional carrier which further increases surface area contact and reduces weight.
  • hydration reservoir 140 may be repeatedly frozen and thawed. Indeed, the entire vest or backpack 100 may also be repeatedly frozen and thawed.
  • hydration reservoir 140 or even entire backpack or vest 100 may be disposable.
  • the one or more pouch 140 may be comprised of one or more of polyethylene (PE), Urethane, polyurethane (PU), polystyrene (PS) and Nylon.
  • PE polyethylene
  • Urethane polyurethane
  • PS polystyrene
  • Nylon Nylon
  • the line 102 may also be comprised of one or more of polyethylene (PE), Urethane, polyurethane (PU), polystyrene (PS) and Nylon.
  • the polyurethane (PU) may comprise a thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU).
  • FIGS. 1A to 1J are suitable as an athletic hydration and thermo-regulation vest or backpack 100 suitable for athletic endeavours such as, but not limited to, running, motor sports and cycling.
  • the athletic embodiment may comprise light weight materials.
  • the invention comprises a heavy-duty hydration and thermo-regulation vest or backpack 100 suitable for industrial; life-saving; military; and/or commercial endeavours, including but not limited to activities such as firefighting and mining.
  • the industrial; life-saving; military; and/or commercial apparatus may comprise a larger reservoir and/or more durable materials.
  • the backpack 100 may comprise two shoulder straps.
  • the vest or backpack 100 may comprise inbuilt straps (not shown) to maximise skin contact and secure it in place. These inbuilt straps may be on the front and/or sides. The inbuilt straps may be adjustable to allow fit to be fine-tuned to a wearer and may have quick release buckles.
  • the vest or backpack 100 may also be used in weight or resistance training.
  • the pouch 142 may comprise a capacity of 2 to 20 litres. Where the capacity is in the range of 5 to 20 litres, the vest or backpack 100 may provide weight or resistance training.
  • cells 144 may be thicker. A user may fill pouch 142 to a desired volume/weight for resistance training.
  • the invention also provides a method for thermo-regulation of a subject comprising applying the vest or backpack 100 to the subject.
  • the subject may be a human subject or a non-human subject.
  • the thermo-regulation may be in relation to athletic performance or in relation to medical or therapeutic treatment.
  • the invention also provides a method of manufacturing hydration and thermo- regulating vest or backpack 100 comprising disposing a hydration reservoir 140 comprising at least one pouch 142, the at least one pouch comprising a contact wall 146, so that, in use, the contact wall 146 contacts a wearer or the wearer's apparel.
  • the reservoir may be filled with cold potable hydration fluid.
  • Theoretical Example [00130] The application of 300 g of ice over a surface area of 414 cm 2 (Ice/skin relationship of 0.724 g/cm 2 ) was able to cool surface temperature from 33°C to 7.7°C after twenty minutes with the most rapid phase of cooling occurring in the first seven minutes after the application (Janwantanakul, P., The effect of quantity of ice and size of contact area on ice pack/skin interface temperature; Physiotherapy 95; 2009; 120-25). The same study found that the application of 0.6 kg of ice applied over the same 414 cm 2 surface area of skin (1.449 g/cm 2 ) was able to cool skin temperature from 33.9 °C to 4.4 °C after twenty minutes.
  • the lightest proposed version of the apparatus 100 would contain an ice weight to skin surface area ratio of lg/cm 2 . Therefore, based on the results of the above study. Apparatus 100 would expect to obtain a decrease in skin temperature of greater than 20°C within the first four minutes following application and final skin temperatures of 5-6°C within ten minutes after application. These calculations are for a subject at rest at 23°C.
  • FIG. 3 A shows a prototype vest 100 constructed according to one embodiment of the invention.
  • FIG. 3B shows the same prototype with the tubes connected to allow consumption of the hydration media. During testing on a hot day with cold hydration media, the wearer felt a significant thermo-regulating (cooling) effect by both the external contact and internal consumption.
  • FIG. 4A is a photograph showing four prototype vests 100 in a zipped arrangement.
  • FIG. 4B is a photograph showing the same prototype vests 100 in which the top vest 100 is in an unzipped arrangement allowing visualisation of the contact wall 146. This prototype vest was worn by elite cyclists before a major competition.
  • FIGS. 5 A; 5B; 5C; 5D; 5E; and 5F A prototype vest according to one embodiment of the invention, see FIGS. 5 A; 5B; 5C; 5D; 5E; and 5F, has recently been trialled by cyclists, race walkers and runners.
  • the present invention is of significant advantage because it provides a reservoir for cold or cool hydration media that can be consumed by an individual and thus provides concurrent internal cooling as well as conduction cooling through surface contact. This may be as the frozen hydration media thaws, or through the consumption of cold hydration media.
  • the similar advantages are expected to be provided when the desired thermo-regulation is heating, in which case warm or hot hydration media would be utilised.
  • the present invention advantageously combines two or more practical thermo- regulating methods to provide mutually potentiating effects on performance through enhanced heat storage and decreased thermoregulatory and cardiovascular strain.

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

Abstract

L'invention concerne un gilet ou un sac à dos d'hydratation et de thermorégulation. Le gilet ou sac à dos d'hydratation et de thermorégulation est pourvu d'un réservoir d'hydratation qui contient au moins une poche, laquelle comprend une paroi de contact qui, lors de l'utilisation, entre en contact avec un porteur ou le vêtement du porteur. Le rafraîchissement peut être réalisé avec des fluides d'hydratation froid, réfrigéré ou congelé. Le chauffage peut être réalisé avec des fluides d'hydratation tempérés, tièdes ou chauds. La thermorégulation peut être simultanément une thermorégulation externe à travers la paroi de contact et une thermorégulation interne par l'ingestion de fluides d'hydratation dans le réservoir d'hydratation. Le gilet ou sac à dos d'hydratation et de thermorégulation peut comprendre une paroi de contact qui, lors de l'utilisation, entre en contact avec un porteur ou le vêtement du porteur.
PCT/AU2018/000033 2017-03-13 2018-03-13 Gilet ou sac à dos à double fonction d'hydratation et de thermorégulation WO2018165696A1 (fr)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
AU2017900866A AU2017900866A0 (en) 2017-03-13 Dual Function Hydration and Cooling Vest or Backpack
AU2017900866 2017-03-13

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WO2018165696A1 true WO2018165696A1 (fr) 2018-09-20

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Cited By (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
TWI741508B (zh) * 2020-02-26 2021-10-01 石岡大樹 胸部用防彈板型冷卻器及使用其的冷卻衣
US12000652B2 (en) 2022-04-29 2024-06-04 Wg Products Llc Wearable hydration/cooling system

Citations (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO2009029351A1 (fr) * 2007-08-29 2009-03-05 Nike, Inc. Article vestimentaire pour une modération de température
US20110101050A1 (en) * 2009-11-04 2011-05-05 Parazynski Scott E Apparatus and methods for fluid storage and delivery
CN202026836U (zh) * 2011-05-11 2011-11-09 山东科技大学 一种便携式多功能马夹
WO2017139615A1 (fr) * 2016-02-12 2017-08-17 Qore Performance, Inc. Contenants de refroidissement et d'hydratation et procédés d'utilisation associés

Patent Citations (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO2009029351A1 (fr) * 2007-08-29 2009-03-05 Nike, Inc. Article vestimentaire pour une modération de température
US20110101050A1 (en) * 2009-11-04 2011-05-05 Parazynski Scott E Apparatus and methods for fluid storage and delivery
CN202026836U (zh) * 2011-05-11 2011-11-09 山东科技大学 一种便携式多功能马夹
WO2017139615A1 (fr) * 2016-02-12 2017-08-17 Qore Performance, Inc. Contenants de refroidissement et d'hydratation et procédés d'utilisation associés

Cited By (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
TWI741508B (zh) * 2020-02-26 2021-10-01 石岡大樹 胸部用防彈板型冷卻器及使用其的冷卻衣
US12000652B2 (en) 2022-04-29 2024-06-04 Wg Products Llc Wearable hydration/cooling system

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