WO2020117598A1 - Dispositif de modification de température d'air ambiant personnel, dispositif de filtration et de purification à diffusion thermique à pales multiples - Google Patents

Dispositif de modification de température d'air ambiant personnel, dispositif de filtration et de purification à diffusion thermique à pales multiples Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2020117598A1
WO2020117598A1 PCT/US2019/063718 US2019063718W WO2020117598A1 WO 2020117598 A1 WO2020117598 A1 WO 2020117598A1 US 2019063718 W US2019063718 W US 2019063718W WO 2020117598 A1 WO2020117598 A1 WO 2020117598A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
filtration
ambient air
purification device
air temperature
air
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/US2019/063718
Other languages
English (en)
Inventor
Steve A. Herweck
Dana HERWECK
Michael Mccarthy
Original Assignee
Airwirl, LLC
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Airwirl, LLC filed Critical Airwirl, LLC
Publication of WO2020117598A1 publication Critical patent/WO2020117598A1/fr

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Classifications

    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
    • F24F—AIR-CONDITIONING; AIR-HUMIDIFICATION; VENTILATION; USE OF AIR CURRENTS FOR SCREENING
    • F24F8/00—Treatment, e.g. purification, of air supplied to human living or working spaces otherwise than by heating, cooling, humidifying or drying
    • F24F8/10—Treatment, e.g. purification, of air supplied to human living or working spaces otherwise than by heating, cooling, humidifying or drying by separation, e.g. by filtering
    • F24F8/117—Treatment, e.g. purification, of air supplied to human living or working spaces otherwise than by heating, cooling, humidifying or drying by separation, e.g. by filtering using wet filtering
    • F24F8/125—Treatment, e.g. purification, of air supplied to human living or working spaces otherwise than by heating, cooling, humidifying or drying by separation, e.g. by filtering using wet filtering using wet filter elements
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61L—METHODS OR APPARATUS FOR STERILISING MATERIALS OR OBJECTS IN GENERAL; DISINFECTION, STERILISATION OR DEODORISATION OF AIR; CHEMICAL ASPECTS OF BANDAGES, DRESSINGS, ABSORBENT PADS OR SURGICAL ARTICLES; MATERIALS FOR BANDAGES, DRESSINGS, ABSORBENT PADS OR SURGICAL ARTICLES
    • A61L9/00—Disinfection, sterilisation or deodorisation of air
    • A61L9/16—Disinfection, sterilisation or deodorisation of air using physical phenomena
    • A61L9/22—Ionisation
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61L—METHODS OR APPARATUS FOR STERILISING MATERIALS OR OBJECTS IN GENERAL; DISINFECTION, STERILISATION OR DEODORISATION OF AIR; CHEMICAL ASPECTS OF BANDAGES, DRESSINGS, ABSORBENT PADS OR SURGICAL ARTICLES; MATERIALS FOR BANDAGES, DRESSINGS, ABSORBENT PADS OR SURGICAL ARTICLES
    • A61L9/00—Disinfection, sterilisation or deodorisation of air
    • A61L9/16—Disinfection, sterilisation or deodorisation of air using physical phenomena
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
    • F24F—AIR-CONDITIONING; AIR-HUMIDIFICATION; VENTILATION; USE OF AIR CURRENTS FOR SCREENING
    • F24F13/00—Details common to, or for air-conditioning, air-humidification, ventilation or use of air currents for screening
    • F24F13/20—Casings or covers
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
    • F24F—AIR-CONDITIONING; AIR-HUMIDIFICATION; VENTILATION; USE OF AIR CURRENTS FOR SCREENING
    • F24F8/00—Treatment, e.g. purification, of air supplied to human living or working spaces otherwise than by heating, cooling, humidifying or drying
    • F24F8/10—Treatment, e.g. purification, of air supplied to human living or working spaces otherwise than by heating, cooling, humidifying or drying by separation, e.g. by filtering
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
    • F24F—AIR-CONDITIONING; AIR-HUMIDIFICATION; VENTILATION; USE OF AIR CURRENTS FOR SCREENING
    • F24F8/00—Treatment, e.g. purification, of air supplied to human living or working spaces otherwise than by heating, cooling, humidifying or drying
    • F24F8/10—Treatment, e.g. purification, of air supplied to human living or working spaces otherwise than by heating, cooling, humidifying or drying by separation, e.g. by filtering
    • F24F8/108—Treatment, e.g. purification, of air supplied to human living or working spaces otherwise than by heating, cooling, humidifying or drying by separation, e.g. by filtering using dry filter elements
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
    • F24F—AIR-CONDITIONING; AIR-HUMIDIFICATION; VENTILATION; USE OF AIR CURRENTS FOR SCREENING
    • F24F8/00—Treatment, e.g. purification, of air supplied to human living or working spaces otherwise than by heating, cooling, humidifying or drying
    • F24F8/20—Treatment, e.g. purification, of air supplied to human living or working spaces otherwise than by heating, cooling, humidifying or drying by sterilisation
    • F24F8/22—Treatment, e.g. purification, of air supplied to human living or working spaces otherwise than by heating, cooling, humidifying or drying by sterilisation using UV light
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F25—REFRIGERATION OR COOLING; COMBINED HEATING AND REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS; HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS; MANUFACTURE OR STORAGE OF ICE; LIQUEFACTION SOLIDIFICATION OF GASES
    • F25D—REFRIGERATORS; COLD ROOMS; ICE-BOXES; COOLING OR FREEZING APPARATUS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • F25D17/00—Arrangements for circulating cooling fluids; Arrangements for circulating gas, e.g. air, within refrigerated spaces
    • F25D17/04—Arrangements for circulating cooling fluids; Arrangements for circulating gas, e.g. air, within refrigerated spaces for circulating air, e.g. by convection
    • F25D17/06—Arrangements for circulating cooling fluids; Arrangements for circulating gas, e.g. air, within refrigerated spaces for circulating air, e.g. by convection by forced circulation
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F25—REFRIGERATION OR COOLING; COMBINED HEATING AND REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS; HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS; MANUFACTURE OR STORAGE OF ICE; LIQUEFACTION SOLIDIFICATION OF GASES
    • F25D—REFRIGERATORS; COLD ROOMS; ICE-BOXES; COOLING OR FREEZING APPARATUS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • F25D3/00—Devices using other cold materials; Devices using cold-storage bodies
    • F25D3/02—Devices using other cold materials; Devices using cold-storage bodies using ice, e.g. ice-boxes
    • F25D3/06—Movable containers
    • F25D3/08—Movable containers portable, i.e. adapted to be carried personally
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61L—METHODS OR APPARATUS FOR STERILISING MATERIALS OR OBJECTS IN GENERAL; DISINFECTION, STERILISATION OR DEODORISATION OF AIR; CHEMICAL ASPECTS OF BANDAGES, DRESSINGS, ABSORBENT PADS OR SURGICAL ARTICLES; MATERIALS FOR BANDAGES, DRESSINGS, ABSORBENT PADS OR SURGICAL ARTICLES
    • A61L2209/00—Aspects relating to disinfection, sterilisation or deodorisation of air
    • A61L2209/10—Apparatus features
    • A61L2209/11—Apparatus for controlling air treatment
    • A61L2209/111—Sensor means, e.g. motion, brightness, scent, contaminant sensors
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61L—METHODS OR APPARATUS FOR STERILISING MATERIALS OR OBJECTS IN GENERAL; DISINFECTION, STERILISATION OR DEODORISATION OF AIR; CHEMICAL ASPECTS OF BANDAGES, DRESSINGS, ABSORBENT PADS OR SURGICAL ARTICLES; MATERIALS FOR BANDAGES, DRESSINGS, ABSORBENT PADS OR SURGICAL ARTICLES
    • A61L2209/00—Aspects relating to disinfection, sterilisation or deodorisation of air
    • A61L2209/10—Apparatus features
    • A61L2209/12—Lighting means
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61L—METHODS OR APPARATUS FOR STERILISING MATERIALS OR OBJECTS IN GENERAL; DISINFECTION, STERILISATION OR DEODORISATION OF AIR; CHEMICAL ASPECTS OF BANDAGES, DRESSINGS, ABSORBENT PADS OR SURGICAL ARTICLES; MATERIALS FOR BANDAGES, DRESSINGS, ABSORBENT PADS OR SURGICAL ARTICLES
    • A61L2209/00—Aspects relating to disinfection, sterilisation or deodorisation of air
    • A61L2209/10—Apparatus features
    • A61L2209/14—Filtering means
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61L—METHODS OR APPARATUS FOR STERILISING MATERIALS OR OBJECTS IN GENERAL; DISINFECTION, STERILISATION OR DEODORISATION OF AIR; CHEMICAL ASPECTS OF BANDAGES, DRESSINGS, ABSORBENT PADS OR SURGICAL ARTICLES; MATERIALS FOR BANDAGES, DRESSINGS, ABSORBENT PADS OR SURGICAL ARTICLES
    • A61L2209/00—Aspects relating to disinfection, sterilisation or deodorisation of air
    • A61L2209/10—Apparatus features
    • A61L2209/16—Connections to a HVAC unit
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
    • B01D—SEPARATION
    • B01D45/00—Separating dispersed particles from gases or vapours by gravity, inertia, or centrifugal forces
    • B01D45/12—Separating dispersed particles from gases or vapours by gravity, inertia, or centrifugal forces by centrifugal forces
    • B01D45/14—Separating dispersed particles from gases or vapours by gravity, inertia, or centrifugal forces by centrifugal forces generated by rotating vanes, discs, drums or brushes

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a personal ambient air temperature modification, filtration, and vapor purification device suitable for providing heating or cooling to a user.
  • the present invention relates to a personal heating or cooling device that provides heated or cooled filtered and vapor purified air flow from a thermal energy storage source disposed in a compact and easily portable handheld device that is adapted to fit within conventional cup holders, such as would be found in an automobile, boat, stroller, or the like.
  • the system incorporates a combination of components that working together improve airflow delivered to the user in both increased velocity and quantity delivered and improved transfer of thermal energy to the delivered air, making a greater temperature differential versus that of the surrounding ambient air temperature.
  • personal cooling or heating devices come in a variety of shapes, sizes and functionalities designed with the intended purpose to cool or heat the associated user. Users frequently utilize such devices while traveling, attending events during long periods outside, and all-day functions, etc. For example, depending on the time of year, users attending work, amusement parks, hiking, sporting events, concerts, etc. may desire to take advantage of the benefits of portable cooling or heating devices.
  • Examples of conventional personal cooling devices include portable fans, spray bottles, cooling towels, etc.
  • Examples of conventional personal heating devices and heating methods include chemically activated hand warmers, rechargeable battery-operated hand warmers, battery operated thermal heaters found in fabric, gloves, boots and jackets that provide short term heat in close contact, various hats, gloves, scarves, etc. Any of the example devices or methods can also be combined to provide additional heating or cooling for the user.
  • the present invention provides a portable personal ambient temperature modification, filtration, and purification device that operates in combination with an insulated container, or the like, to provide improved filtration, heating and cooling to a user for an extending period of time.
  • the device of the present invention includes a motorized lid for the container that provides an air flow, e.g., using a motorized air movement mechanism such as a fan or other powered air movement mechanism, of filtered chilled or hot air purified by vapor capture, created from the ambient temperature passing through an interior volume of the container, the interior volume containing a chilling or heating combination fluid vapor source and thermal energy storage component, at least one thermal diffusion blade drawing air into the interior volume and effecting convection heat transfer with the incoming air to heat or chill it, and an air manifold to draw the air out of the interior volume powered by the fan and supplied out of the device to the user.
  • a motorized air movement mechanism such as a fan or other powered air movement mechanism
  • a personal ambient air temperature modification, filtration, and purification device includes a container adapted to be handheld, the container having one or more thermally insulated walls defining an interior volume, each of the one or more thermally insulated walls having an interior side facing the interior volume and an exterior side opposite the interior side; an opening disposed through a first end of the container, and a base disposed at a second end of the container opposite the first end, the base having an interior side facing the interior volume and an exterior side opposite the interior side; wherein the container is sized, dimensioned, and adapted to fit in a cup holder.
  • the device includes a lid with an interior side facing the interior volume and an exterior side opposite the interior side, the lid removably and replaceably covering the opening in such a way that obstructs the opening when in a sealed position and exposes the opening when removed from the container.
  • the lid includes a return port; an air inlet; and a motorized air movement mechanism disposed inside the lid that draws air through the air inlet and exhausts return air through the return port to an external environment external to the container and the lid.
  • the device includes one or more air intake port positioned to draw supply air from an ambient environment external to the device to flow into the interior volume of the container, at least one thermal diffusion blade in fluid communication with the one or more air intake port is disposed in the interior volume of the container.
  • the at least one thermal diffusion blade includes an elongate conduit blade having an air funnel opening at a first end and a supply opening at a second end, the air funnel opening fluidly coupled with the one or more air intake port and the supply opening fluidly coupled with the interior volume of the container.
  • the motorized air movement mechanism When the lid is in the sealed position on the container, the motorized air movement mechanism is operating, and one or more thermal energy storage components are disposed in the interior volume of the container, then ambient air is drawn through the one or more air intake port, through the filter and into the at least one thermal diffusion blade, out through the supply openings and into the interior volume of the container and across the one or more combination fluid vapor source and thermal energy storage components, the ambient air being converted to thermally modified air via convection with the at least one thermal diffusion blade and the one or more fluid vapor source and thermal energy storage components, through the air manifold, the thermally modified air then continuing into the air inlet, and out through the return port as return air having a different temperature from the ambient air drawn through the one or more air intake port.
  • an air filter can be provided.
  • the air filter includes a collar having the at least one thermal diffusion blades extending from the filter collar.
  • the filter can include a disposable air filter, an air filter comprised of carbon components, a HEP A air filter, a non-HEPA filter, an anti-microbial filter, or the like.
  • a polypropylene electrostatic mesh filter which can be wetted with anti-microbial or anti-viral solutions.
  • the return air has a different temperature from the ambient air drawn through the one or more air intake port comprises a temperature difference of at least 29 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • the container can have a double wall configuration with an air gap disposed between walls of the double wall configuration.
  • the container can have a double wall configuration with one or more thermally insulating materials disposed between walls of the double wall configuration.
  • the interior volume of the container can be one of about lOoz, about 15oz, about 20oz, about 24oz, about 30oz, about 36oz, about 40oz, about 45oz, about 50oz, about 55oz, or about 60oz.
  • the container can be manufactured of one or more of a plastic, composite, metal, rubber, elastomeric material, non-elastomeric material, or combinations thereof.
  • a gasket seal can be disposed about the lid and configured to engage with the container opening when the lid is in a sealed position on the container.
  • An elastomer gasket seal can be disposed about the lid and configured to engage with the container opening when the lid is in a sealed position on the container, the elastomer gasket seal providing vibration dampening, noise reduction, and thermal preservation between the container opening and the lid.
  • a mechanical coupling can be provided between the lid and the container consisting of one of a via a friction or interference fit, a latch mechanism, or a threaded coupling.
  • the personal ambient air temperature modification, filtration, and purification device of claim can further include a thermally insulating insert disposed in the lid proximate the interior side facing the interior volume.
  • the thermally insulating insert comprises a non-toxic insulating plastic foam insert, an insulating composite material, or combinations thereof.
  • the thermally insulating insert can be vibration-dampening, sound dampening, or both, wherein the thermally insulating insert further comprises one or more air intake channels providing fluid communication between the one or more air intake port and the interior volume of the container when the lid is in the sealed position on the container.
  • the thermally insulating insert is removable, washable, and reusable.
  • the motorized air movement mechanism can include a centrifugal fan having curved fan blades, flat fan blades, or combinations thereof.
  • the at least one thermal diffusion blade can be made of a porous material or a non-porous material.
  • the at least one thermal diffusion blade comprises a plurality of perforations throughout their length.
  • Each of the at least one thermal diffusion blade can have a central channel fluidly coupling the intake opening and the air funnel at the first end with the supply opening and the interior volume of the container at the second end.
  • Each of the at least one thermal diffusion blade can have a plurality of channels fluidly coupling the intake opening and the air funnel at the first end with the supply opening and the interior volume of the container at the second end.
  • Each of the at least one thermal diffusion blade can have a plurality of side wall openings.
  • Each of the at least one thermal diffusion blade can have a plurality of thermally conductive surface features.
  • Each of the at least one thermal diffusion blade can have a plurality of thermally conductive surface features including one or more of fins, contours, finger projections, or combinations thereof, which increase a thermally conductive surface area of the air manifold relative to a smooth and linear surface.
  • Each of the at least one thermal diffusion blade can have a tapered
  • each of the at least one thermal diffusion blade can further include attachment means selected from the group consisting of posts, slots, ribs, or cups disposed along an outer surface of each of the at least one thermal diffusion blade for engaging with the one or more thermal energy storage components disposed inside the container.
  • Each of the at least one thermal diffusion blade can be removably and replaceably coupled with the lid or an insert disposed in the lid.
  • Each of the at least one thermal diffusion blade can be permanently coupled with the lid or an insert disposed in the lid. Each of the at least one thermal diffusion blade can be removably and replaceably coupled with the lid or an insert disposed in the lid via a friction or interference fit, a latch mechanism, or a threaded coupling. Each of the at least one thermal diffusion blade can be adapted to receive thermal energy from one or more thermal energy storage components disposed in the interior volume of the container. Each of the at least one thermal diffusion blade can be adapted to receive thermal energy from one or more combination vapor source or thermal energy storage components disposed in the interior volume of the container, the one or more thermal energy storage components comprising a warm or cold gel pack, iron oxide pouches for generating heat, ice, or combinations thereof. Each of the at least one thermal diffusion blade can be adapted to receive thermal energy from one or more thermal energy storage components that are folded.
  • a nozzle can be removably and replaceably coupled with the return port to increase airflow rate.
  • the personal ambient air temperature modification, filtration, and purification device can further include a battery storage chamber.
  • a USB port can be disposed in the device for receiving power to the device, wherein the USB port is water resistant.
  • a wireless communication component can be coupled with a control mechanism that is controlling motorized air movement mechanism operation in such a way that the motorized air movement mechanism is controllable by separate device in wireless communication with the control mechanism via the wireless communication component.
  • a wireless communication component can be configured to wirelessly communicate using one or more of radio frequency (RF), Wi-Fi, cellular, Bluetooth, Bluetooth Low Energy, personal area network (PAN), short-wavelength UHF, or combinations thereof.
  • a battery cover door can have a magnetic power cord receiver coupling equipped for magnetic power cord attachment for battery charging.
  • a weather resistant, or waterproof, battery cover door when in a sealed and closed position can be provided on the lid.
  • External sides of the lid, including a battery cover door, weather resistant switch(s), protruding rib elements and handle(s) can be constructed of non-heat absorbing materials, finishes, or colors to reduce heat absorption by the lid in extreme ambient temperatures or sunlight.
  • One or more movable doors can be positioned and configured to close or open access to the one or more air intake port, for maintaining thermal energy stored inside the container by closing the one or more movable doors.
  • a microphone can be configured receive voice commands translated to commands for a control mechanism controlling operation of the motorized air movement mechanism.
  • the personal ambient air temperature modification, filtration, and purification device can weigh less than lOlbs, preferably less than 51bs, and more preferably less than 21bs.
  • a weather resistant on/off switch for controlling the operation of the motorized air movement mechanism can be provided. And or more weather resistant on/off switches, variable speed switches, one or more weather resistant switches with LED indicator, one or more weather resistant switches with digital display screen, one or more timer configured to control on/off operation of the motorized air movement mechanism, or combinations thereof, can be provided.
  • a power receiver port can be selected from the group consisting of USB, micro-USB, multi-pin dock connector, and lighting power connector.
  • a solar power generation source can be coupled with the personal ambient air temperature modification, filtration, and purification device.
  • a non-slip vibration absorption or vibration dampening base can be disposed on a bottom surface of the personal ambient air temperature modification, filtration, and purification device upon which the device rests when placed on a surface.
  • the device can include a carry handle extending from the lid.
  • a carry handle can extend from the lid wherein the carry handle is configured to enable horizontal placement of the personal ambient air temperature modification, filtration, and purification device onto a flat surface without rolling.
  • a carry handle extending from the lid wherein the carry handle can be configured to block accidental on/off switch activation and block accidental power cord dislodgment when connected to an external power source.
  • a carry handle can extend from the lid, wherein the carry handle and battery cover tab are sized, dimensioned, configured, and adapted to support a mobile phone or mobile tablet device at a sufficient viewing angle on top of the tab and lid during operation of the personal ambient air temperature modification, filtration, and purification device.
  • the device can include a night light.
  • a removable insulating jacket cover can be sized, dimensioned, and configured to fit around the personal ambient air temperature modification, filtration, and purification device.
  • a temperature sensor can be disposed on the personal ambient air temperature modification, filtration, and purification device for sensing air temperature.
  • An ultrasonic electronic water mist generator can be provided for supplying water mist to the return port.
  • the water mist generator can be coupled with a condensation or liquid source.
  • An aromatic diffuser means can be provided for supplying aroma to the return port.
  • the personal ambient air temperature modification, filtration, and purification device can be powered with
  • the rechargeable batteries can be configured to charge a rechargeable battery-operated device such as a cell phone, or tablet, or computing device either by wire connection or by wireless charging means.
  • a battery life indicator display can be provided.
  • a temperature display can be provided.
  • the personal ambient air temperature modification, filtration, and purification device can include, for each of the one or more air intake port, a door that is closeable to block the one or more air intake port and openable to provide access to the one or more air intake port in such a way that the door can be closed when the personal ambient air temperature modification, filtration, and purification device, thereby preserving thermal energy within the container.
  • Each of the at least one thermal diffusion blade can include one or more thermal energy generating device attachment means for placement within and removal from the container.
  • the motorized air movement mechanism can be structured in a turbine fan configuration of fan blades.
  • the personal ambient air temperature modification, filtration, and purification device can be configured to provide localized body temperature modification of 2 degrees Fahrenheit or greater, 5 degrees Fahrenheit or greater.
  • the personal ambient air temperature modification, filtration, and purification device modifies ambient air temperature by at least 2 degrees Fahrenheit or greater.
  • the return port can be placed close enough to a living object to effect a topical temperature change or surface temperature effect of 2 degrees Fahrenheit or greater.
  • the personal ambient air temperature modification, filtration, and purification device wherein the return port outputs airflow that is 5 degrees Fahrenheit or greater temperature differential versus ambient air input temperature into the device.
  • the return port can output airflow that is 10 degrees Fahrenheit or greater temperature differential versus ambient air input temperature into the device.
  • the return port outputs airflow that can be 15 degrees Fahrenheit or greater temperature differential versus ambient air input temperature into the device.
  • the return port outputs airflow that can be 20 degrees Fahrenheit or greater temperature differential versus ambient air input temperature into the device.
  • the return port outputs airflow that can be 25 degrees Fahrenheit or greater temperature differential versus ambient air input temperature into the device.
  • the personal ambient air temperature modification, filtration, and purification device further includes a wireless, battery operated Bluetooth or Wi-Fi enabled speaker for use during operation of the motorized air movement mechanism.
  • a printed circuit board containing LEDs, battery connections, auto-shutoff timer, plug outlet, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth components within the lid can be included.
  • a motor speed indicator (LED), a Wi-Fi connection indicator or display, and/or an on/off indicator (LED) can be included.
  • a medication diffuser for supplying various medicines to a user through the return port can be included.
  • An illuminated power icon button can be included that lights up when touched and turns off after a predetermined period of time.
  • An LED power indicator can be included that is illuminated when the device is on and not illuminated when the device is off.
  • the power indicator can be a halo around an on/off switch button.
  • One or more LED indicators can be included for indicating remaining battery power or speed of the motorized air movement mechanism.
  • An internal temperature sensor can be coupled to a temperature LED, the temperature LED illuminating cool colors for chilled air temperature and warm colors for warm air temperature.
  • a weather resistant soft touch coating can be included for providing a non-slip grip when the container or the lid is wet. The weather resistant soft touch coating can on 5% of greater of an external surface of the lid.
  • the container can be sized to fit a variety of hand sizes by shape. The shape can include at least one of round, square, contoured, hexagonal, flared, contoured, or textured.
  • the container can have a vibration absorption base to container width of greater than 80% up to 150%.
  • a length to width ratio of a length of each of the at least one thermal diffusion blade can be greater than 10% of a diameter of the motorized air movement mechanism.
  • a weather resistant battery cover can be provided with hinge and clip closure with anti-vibration and temperature preservation and sound insulating properties.
  • a personal ambient air temperature modification, filtration, and purification device can include a container adapted to be handheld, the container having: one or more thermally insulated walls defining an interior volume, each of the one or more thermally insulated walls having an interior side facing the interior volume and an exterior side opposite the interior side; an opening disposed through a first end of the container, and a base disposed at a second end of the container opposite the first end, the base having an interior side facing the interior volume and an exterior side opposite the interior side.
  • the container is sized, dimensioned, and adapted to fit in a cup holder.
  • a lid is provided with an interior side facing the interior volume and an exterior side opposite the interior side, the lid removably and replaceably covering the opening in such a way that obstructs the opening when in a sealed position and exposes the opening when removed from the container, the lid having: a return port; an air inlet; and a motorized air movement mechanism disposed inside the lid that draws air through the air inlet and exhausts return air through the return port to an external environment external to the container and the lid.
  • One or more air intake port can be provided, the one or more air intake port positioned to draw supply air from an ambient environment external to the device to flow into the interior volume of the container.
  • An air filter is disposed in fluid communication with the one or more air intake port.
  • the air filter including filters such as electrostatic or HEP A type filter, and at least one thermal diffusion blade disposed in the interior volume of the container.
  • Each of the at least one thermal diffusion blade having a central air channel that is coupled with the air inlet and the surrounded by a plurality of fins and storage chambers coupled with the interior volume of the container.
  • the motorized air movement mechanism When the lid is in the sealed position on the container, the motorized air movement mechanism is operating, and one or more thermal energy storage components are disposed in the interior volume of the container, then ambient air is drawn through the one or more air intake port, into the at least one thermal diffusion blade, out through the supply openings and into the interior volume of the container and across the one or more combination fluid vapor source and thermal energy storage components, the ambient air being converted to thermally modified air via convection with the at least one thermal diffusion blade and the one or more combination fluid vapor source and thermal energy storage components, through the air manifold, the thermally modified air then continuing into the air inlet, and out through the return port as return air having a different temperature from the ambient air drawn through the one or more air intake port.
  • a personal ambient air temperature modification, filtration, and purification device includes a container having: one or more thermally insulated walls defining an interior volume, each of the one or more thermally insulated walls having an interior side facing the interior volume and an exterior side opposite the interior side; an opening disposed through a first end of the container; and a lid with an interior side facing the interior volume and an exterior side opposite the interior side, the lid removably and replaceably covering the opening in such a way that obstructs the opening when in a sealed position and exposes the opening when removed from the container.
  • the lid can include: a motorized air movement mechanism and a network of closed compartments configured to prevent ambient temperature air water condensation and modified temperature air water condensation from contact with components located within the network of closed compartments.
  • the components can be located within the network of closed compartments include at least the one or more electrically connected switches, autoshutoff timer, printed circuit boards (PCBs), light emitting diodes (LEDs), and batteries are encased within the network of closed compartments.
  • PCBs printed circuit boards
  • LEDs light emitting diodes
  • batteries are encased within the network of closed compartments.
  • FIG. 1 is cross-sectional view of a personal ambient air temperature
  • FIG. 2 is an exploded view of the device and all components that combine to form the device in full assembled configuration
  • FIG. 3A is a side view of lid and air manifold components of the device of FIG. l;
  • FIGS.3B, 3C, 3D, and 3E are cut-away illustrations of the lid and air manifold components shown in FIG.2;
  • FIG. 3F is an isometric illustration of the lid and an insulating insert shown in exploded view that is configured to fit within the lid when fully assembled;
  • FIG. 4 is an illustration of the lid with a nozzle attached to a return port of the lid
  • FIG. 5 is an illustration of an extension hose being attached to the lid
  • FIG. 6A shows a bottom view of the lid and FIG.6B shows a front view of the lid and return port;
  • FIG 7A is a perspective view of the lid and battery compartment and FIGS. 7B and 7C are side views of the lid mounted on the container of the device;
  • FIG. 8A is a cross-sectional side view of the lid and a thermal diffusion blade
  • FIG. 8B is a cross-sectional front view of the lid and a portion of at least one thermal diffusion blade
  • FIG. 8C is a bottom isometric view of the lid and air manifold
  • FIG. 9 is an isometric illustration of the lid, an insulating insert, and filter with thermal diffusion blades
  • FIG. 10 is a front isometric exploded view of the lid, the insulating insert, and filter with thermal diffusion blades of the personal ambient air temperature modification, filtration, and purification device;
  • FIG. 11A is an exploded view of an insulating insert and filter having the at least one thermal diffusion blade
  • FIG. 11B shows the insulating insert and filter having at least one thermal diffusion blade coupled together in full assembly configuration
  • FIG. 11C shows alternate views of the insulating insert and the at least one thermal diffusion blade coupled together in full assembly configuration
  • FIG. 12 is a front isometric view of the filter and woven poly fabric air filter layers inserted into the filter having thermal diffusion blades of the personal ambient air temperature modification, filtration, and purification system;
  • FIGS. 13A and 13B are a top view and an isometric side view of the insulating insert and the air filter with the at least one thermal diffusion blade coupled in full assembly configuration;
  • FIGS. 13C and 13D are a top view and an isometric side view of the at least one thermal diffusion blade, HEPA air filter layer, and air filter collar coupled in full assembly configuration;
  • FIGS. 13E and 13F are a top view and an isometric side view of the at least one thermal diffusion blade, woven poly fabric air filter layers, and air filter collar coupled in full assembly configuration;
  • FIGS. 13G and 13H are a top view and an isometric side view of the air filter and the at least one thermal diffusion blade coupled in full assembly configuration;
  • FIG. 14 is a right side exploded view of the lid, the insulating insert, and the air filter having at least one thermal diffusion blade of the personal ambient air temperature modification, filtration, and purification device;
  • FIG. 15 is a rear exploded view of the lid, the insulating insert and the air filter having at least one thermal diffusion blade of the personal ambient air temperature modification, filtration, and purification device;
  • FIG. 16 is a left side exploded view of the lid, the insulating insert, and the air filter having at least one thermal diffusion blade of the personal ambient air temperature modification, filtration, and purification device;
  • FIG. 17 is an isometric illustration of the lid and an insulating insert shown in exploded view that is configured to fit within the lid when fully assembled that shows application of the antimicrobial spray mist;
  • FIG. 18 is an illustrative flowchart depicting the method of use of a personal ambient air temperature modification, filtration, and purification system
  • An illustrative embodiment of the present invention relates to an improved personal ambient air temperature modification, filtration, and purification device.
  • the device includes a removable motorized lid in combination with an insulated container, such as a handheld liquid or ice container (e.g., a tumbler, thermos, etc.).
  • the lid includes a powered or motorized air movement mechanism, such as a variable speed fan, and is coupled with one or more thermal diffusion blades that extends into an interior volume of the insulated container, where a combination fluid vapor source and thermal energy storage device may reside.
  • An optional positionable, a bendable and flexible tube can be coupled with a return port to direct modified temperature airflow to a user to effect a localized beneficial temperature modification.
  • a nozzle can be coupled with the return port to increase the fluid velocity of airflow through the port (and subsequently through the tube if attached to the nozzle).
  • the assembled device provides a personal sized portable container with a container motorized lid for use with any appropriately sized thermal energy storage components (e.g., ice, iron oxide or thermal preserving gel materials, or thermal battery heat generating system) to condition or modify ambient temperature air drawn into and through the device (e.g., via an air intake and the air manifold) and be returned out to the user via an air return opening in the lid having a modified temperature (either heated or chilled from the ambient air temperature that was drawn into the device).
  • an optional flexible and length extendable tube can be attached to a return port on the device to enable close proximity of modified ambient temperature air directed for close proximity personal use of the device of the present invention in different environmental temperature conditions.
  • the entire device is sized, dimensioned, and configured to fit within a conventional cup holder, such as would be found in an automobile, and especially when implemented in a container embodiment.
  • the present invention is configured to take advantage of the known thermal containment benefits of a double wall insulated container (such as a container handheld liquid container, or equivalent container); specifically, a container that can keep ice or warm water temperatures for an extended period of time and leverage such insulating capability to provide a heating or cooling functionality by exposing an airflow to an internal heating or chilling component with the airflow passing down through the at least one thermal diffusion blade and over the component, through an air manifold, and out of the device with the lid sealed in place.
  • the lid and the container can optionally include various vibration and sound absorption means to quite operation and provide non-slip placement on angled and/or wet surfaces, as well as provide insulated temperature preservation benefits on different temperature surfaces.
  • the system and method of the present invention significantly modifies ambient air temperatures in a surrounding external environment by use of a double walled container with a motorized lid air movement assembly and unique internal air manifold that enables ambient temperature air to flow through an interior volume of the container, be heated or chilled depending on desired configuration, and be returned out from the container and delivered to a user to effect a localized temperature modification benefit, aka, heating or chilling of the air.
  • ambient temperature air is pulled into an interior volume of the container device of the present invention
  • the ambient temperature air is filtered, chilled or heated by contents stored within the device (depending on whether the user desires to experience cooling or heating) purified using vapor capture techniques and the resulting filtered and purified chilled or warm air is returned out from the interior volume of the container device and delivered to the user.
  • the modified air returned from the device has proven to provide improved ambient air temperature modification and filtration for hours with the device of the present invention.
  • the change in ambient temperature is produced from a combination fluid vapor source and thermal energy storage component placed within the double wall insulated container, combined with the specifically configured thermal diffusion blades disposed in the interior volume and directing modified air to a return port (or coupled tube) directed at a user.
  • the present invention employs both a handheld liquid container sized motorized lid assembly with internal air channel means to effect a significant change in airflow temperatures and air purification to a user using both an increased velocity and quantity of airflow together with a significant and noticeable temperature and air borne particle differential or reduction versus that of the ambient air.
  • the present invention leverages a number of conventional thermodynamic properties, including advection, conduction or thermal diffusion, convection.
  • Advection is the transport mechanism of a fluid from one location to another, and is dependent on motion and momentum of that fluid.
  • Conduction or thermal diffusion relates to the transfer of energy between objects that are in physical contact.
  • Thermal conductivity is the property of a material to conduct heat and evaluated primarily in terms of Fourier’s Law for heat conduction.
  • Convection relates to the transfer of energy between an object and its environment, due to fluid motion. The average temperature is a reference for evaluating properties related to convective heat transfer.
  • convection equals the combination of conduction/thermal diffusion as the fundamental mode of heat transfer plus advection where the fluid movement transports the thermal energy contained in the fluid.
  • the present application likewise considers air to be a fluid as it relates to the above definitions of advection, conduction, and convection.
  • a combination of components and their interplay with each other improves both air velocity and transfer of thermal energy to the ambient air coming into the device to generate temperature modified air being output by the device at larger temperature variations (up or down depending on heating vs. cooling) vs. ambient air temperature.
  • the unique structure of the at least one thermal diffusion blade provides an efficient balance between available surface area of the thermal diffusion blades to effect conduction from contact with thermal energy storage components and any liquid in the interior volume to effect convection via the combination of conduction and advection as the air flows in from the intake and down through the conduits of the at least one thermal diffusion blade, and doubles the cross-sectional area of the conduits within the two or more blades available for increasing volume of air flow at reduced drag for the same length of travel vs. a single conduit structure having the same total surface area available for conduction.
  • the structure of the at least one thermal diffusion blade forces the intake air down into the bottom half of the interior volume to flow over, around, and through more of the thermal energy storage components, thereby improving advection and convection and providing exposure to increased humidity levels within the container, before being drawn up and out of the interior volume of the container through an air manifold in the lid of the container as thermally modified air and out through the return port to the user.
  • the optional inclusion of a nozzle placed on the return port increases air velocity out of the device, enabling a greater distribution of air current for a larger distance area outward into the surrounding environment of the device.
  • the combination of the at least one thermal diffusion blade with the nozzle creates an improved air velocity and temperature differential of the air between ambient air temperature taken in at the intake vs. thermally modified air exiting the device at the return port or nozzle and blown in the direction of the user.
  • the use of at least one thermal diffusion blade provides an additional benefit of“cold air filtration” based on the concept or vapor adhesion.
  • the use of ice and/or chemically activated heating gel packs generates an increased humidity environment in the form of water condensation within the interior volume attracting, containing, and trapping particulates in the air flowing through the interior volume. More specifically, fluid droplets from humidity and complex moisture surfaces and condensation enable small and large particulates are attracted to and contained and adhere to the interior of the system, reducing the amount of airborne particles diffused back into an environment.
  • the vapor adhesion can be explained as follows.
  • the provided cold air filtration of the present invention makes use of condensation caused by the chilling and condensation of moisture of within the internal volume of the container that occurs even when the air being modified by the device is being chilled, and if the chilling source is a plurality of ice cubes the surface of the cubes provides additional attraction, containment, and particle trapping surface characteristics due to the wet and chilled surfaces. That is, no dry heat, chemicals, or UV light needs to be applied, which could undermine the desired chilling of the air, to gain the filtration benefit of the device.
  • the cold air filtration technique described herein can provide 90% efficiency for particular matter smaller than 2.5 microns (PM2.5) as evidenced in the below described testing.
  • a unique round or disc shaped, smooth, folded, or corrugated HEPA filter material in the flow path between the air intake and the at least one thermal diffusion blade provides air filtration up to 99.95% filtration efficiency.
  • a conventional mechanical (e.g., HEPA) filtration system for particles larger than 0.3 microns, such as pollen, ragweed and common dust size particles together with the VPE of cold air filtration technology for attracting smaller, airborne particulates to the wet surfaces and water droplets generated by both ice and exothermic heat pods, results in further purification of the filtered air.
  • FIGS. 1 through 18, wherein like parts are designated by like reference numerals throughout, illustrate an example embodiment or embodiments of a personal ambient air temperature modification, filtration, and purification device, and method of use, according to the present invention.
  • FIGS. 1 through 18, wherein like parts are designated by like reference numerals throughout illustrate an example embodiment or embodiments of a personal ambient air temperature modification, filtration, and purification device, and method of use, according to the present invention.
  • FIGS. 1 through 18 illustrate an example embodiment or embodiments of a personal ambient air temperature modification, filtration, and purification device, and method of use, according to the present invention.
  • FIGS. 1-18 depict illustrative embodiments) of a personal ambient air temperature modification, filtration, and purification device 100, and method of use, in accordance with the present invention.
  • FIG. 1 depicts the device 100 including a container 102 sized, dimensioned, and configured as a handheld liquid container 102 that is also sized, dimensioned, and configured to fit and be held by conventional cup holders such as would be found in automobiles, bicycles, couches, camping chairs, coolers, etc., and the like.
  • the container 102 can be approximately 4 inches wide by 10 inches tall, with a tapered base of about 2.5 inches to 2 7/8 inches, for example. Above all the dimensions must enable placement of the container 102 in a conventional vehicle cup holder.
  • the container 102 includes one or more thermally insulated walls 104 defining an interior volume 105, each of the one or more thermally insulated walls 104 having an interior side 112 facing the interior volume 105 and an exterior side opposite the interior side.
  • the interior volume 105 is configured to hold beverages and other substances (e.g., temperature modifying substance) for use by the present invention.
  • the one or more thermally insulated walls 104 have a double-wall configuration (wherein the air gap between the walls is the mechanism by which they are considered thermally insulating, as would be understood by those of skill in the art).
  • the container 102 further includes an opening 106 disposed through a first end
  • a base 108 is disposed at a second end of the container 102 opposite the first end, the base 108 having an interior side 113 facing the interior volume 105 and an exterior side opposite the interior side, upon which the container 102 rests on a surface.
  • the container 102 further includes a non-slip vibration absorption layer 109 disposed on the exterior side of the base
  • the vibration absorption layer 109 is configured to minimize translation of any vibration generated by, e.g., a motorized fan 120 during operation through to the surface upon which the container 102 rests, thereby maintaining quieter operation.
  • the vibration absorption layer also provides sound an insulated benefit by reducing the motorized fan 120 noise on a surface, hence causing quieter operation.
  • the vibration absorption layer further provides temperature preservation insulating benefits to preserve an internal temperature of the container 102 such that external surface/ambient air temperatures do not modify the internal temperature of the container 102.
  • the container 102 can be designed in any geometric shape, including round, square, triangle or hexagonal shape that fits into a standard size cup holder with an interior volume 105 of about 6 oz., about 8 oz., aboutlOoz, about 12 oz., about 15oz., about 16 oz., about 20oz., about 24oz., about 30oz., about 36oz., about 40oz., about 45oz., about 50oz, about 55oz, or about 60oz.
  • the ratio of the length and width of the container 102 can vary be design and preferred interior volume 105 of the container.
  • the vibration absorption layer base width to wall width ratio of the container can be greater than 80% up to 150%.
  • the container 102 can include a universal grip shape to allow users with different hand sizes to easily handle the container 102 regardless of hand size.
  • the container 102 can include different shapes/grips sections including but not limited to any geometric shape, tapers shapes, flared shapes, contoured shapes, etc.
  • the container 102 can be constructed from any materials known in the art and scaled to any size, preferably still fitting within a conventional vehicle cup holder.
  • the container 102 can be manufactured of one or more of a plastic, composite, metal, rubber, elastomeric material, non-elastomeric material, or combinations thereof.
  • the container 102 can include any type of coating and/or exterior finish known in the art.
  • the container 102 can include a weather resistant soft touch coating (e.g., a two-shot hard plastic and soft elastomer areas on 5% or greater external surface area of motorized lid 110) for providing a non-slip grip in different weather conditions.
  • the personal ambient air temperature modification, filtration, and purification device 100 also includes a lid 110.
  • the lid 110 removably and replaceably covers the opening 106 of the container 102 in such a way that the lid 110 obstructs the opening 106 when in a sealed position and exposes the opening 106 when in an unsealed position or removed from the container 102.
  • the interior side 112 of the container 102 is configured to face the interior volume 105 of the container 102 and the exterior side 114 opposite the interior side 112.
  • the lid 110 can be designed in any suitable geometric shape, including round, square, triangle or hexagonal shape matching an opening 106 shape of a double walled thermal energy holding container 102 that fits into a standard size cup holder.
  • FIG. 1 further depicts a filter 117, one or more thermal diffusion blades 125, and a combination fluid vapor source and thermal energy storage components 121 disposed in the interior volume 105 of the container 102.
  • combination fluid vapor source and thermal energy storage components 121 include but are not limited to hand warmer pouches of iron oxide crystals, ice cubes, freezable or heatable blocks, chemically activated gel packs, rechargeable battery packs, or freezable gel pouches.
  • Thermal energy storage components 121 as utilized throughout the present disclosure and claims are defined as both thermal energy heat sources that supply heat energy to their surroundings, and or a thermal energy heat sink chilling source that remove heat from their surroundings (and therefore provide chilling) depending on whether the user desires heating or cooling. Whether they are heating or chilling thermal energy storage components is determined by whether they maintain a higher temperature or a lower temperature than their surroundings inside the interior volume 105 as would be readily understood by those of skill in the art.
  • FIG. 2 is an exploded view of the device 100 and all components that combine to form the device 100 in full assembly.
  • the components are configured to nest and interlock to reduce space and form an air tight seal to prevent leakage into the environment 111 of thermal characteristics of the interior volume 105 of the container 102, improving efficiency in air delivery by the system 100.
  • FIGS. 3A- 3F depict multiple detailed illustrative examples of the lid 110 as shown in FIG. 1.
  • the lid 110 includes an air intake port 116, a return port 118, and a motorized air movement mechanism, such as a motorized fan 120 disposed inside the lid 110 and configured to draw air into the interior volume 105 of the container 102 through one or more air intake port 116 each feeding the filter 117 one of at least one thermal diffusion blade 125 and exhausts return air, via air inlet 122, through the return port 118 to an external environment 111 of the container 102 and the lid 110.
  • the motorized air movement mechanism in the illustrative embodiment is depicted as the motorized fan 120.
  • any suitable air movement mechanism can be utilized so long as it fits within the dimensional and power requirements of the present invention.
  • the air movement mechanism is referred to throughout the present invention as the motorized fan 120, but the present invention is not limited to only a fan-specific mechanism. Any reference to a fan is intended to encompass all such suitable motorized air movement mechanisms, including but not limited to fans, turbines, pressurized vessels, air nozzles, air pumps, and the like.
  • the one or more air intake port 116 is in fluid communication with the interior volume 105 of the container 102.
  • the one or more air intake port 116 are configured and positioned to draw supply air from an ambient external environment 111 (external to the device 100) to the device 100 into the interior volume 105 of the container 102.
  • the one or more air intake port 116 and can include multiple cut outs, filters, and locations throughout the lid 110.
  • the one or more air intake port 116 can be disposed proximal the first end of the container 102.
  • the one or more air intake port 116 could be located in the upper portion of the thermally insulated wall 104 of the container 102 in addition, or as an alternative, to being disposed in the lid 110.
  • the one or more air intake port is 116 is depicted in the example embodiment as two ports, one on each side of the lid; however, other numbers and arrangement of air intake port are anticipated by the invention and the present description, as would be readily appreciated by those of skill in the art.
  • the return port 118 is utilized to provide the modified (e.g., heated or chilled) airflow created by the present invention to a user.
  • the return port 118 can be fixed, articulable, or a combination thereof, to enable the user to direct the return air in a desired direction. It can also include an internally located safety grill to prevent debris or small fingers from entering the motorized fan 120 blades.
  • a nozzle 152 can be coupled with the return port 118 sized, dimensioned, and configured to increase airflow velocity, and/or focus the airflow, as would be appreciated by those of skill in the art. Such nozzle attachment can lower the decibel noise level by a measurable amount for quieter user operation and experience.
  • the ambient device 100 noise can be 60 decibels, and with the nozzle attached at the same fan speed, the system noise level can lower to 45 decibels measured at 4inches away from the device 100 and not in the airstream. Therefore the nozzle has the effect of lowering the decibel level output of the overall device 100.
  • the fan 120 is a centrifugal or turbine fan including multiple curved blades which enable improved thrust in a smaller space while creating less noise than a traditional flat blade fan design. More specifically, a compact turbine blade design enables more thermal energy convection in compact motorized fan housing with efficient vacuum generation and return port thrust, ideal for ambient temperature convection through a compact space without a large amount of air flow noise. Additionally, the centrifugal or turbine fan design enables the return port 118 to be located 90 degrees to the motor shaft for the fan 120 for compact airflow efficiency and temperature preservation of the thermally changed expelled air flow.
  • the motorized centrifugal fan 120 can include any combination of curved fan blades, flat fan blades, or angled fan blades. Similarly, any type of fan design or other mechanism can be utilized to draw air from the external environment 111 into the device 100 and exhaust air return through the return port 118 without departing from the scope of the present invention.
  • the fan 120 draws in air from the external environment 111
  • the fan 120 draws in modified temperature air from the interior volume 105 of the container 102 through the air inlet 122 and the air manifold 124 and exhausts that air out through the return port 118.
  • the air inlet 122 is positioned underneath a center point of the fan 120 and can be located at any location on the intake side of the fan 120.
  • the air inlet 122 can include a nose cone in front of the fan 120 as would be appreciated by those of skill in the art and therefore not shown in the figures.
  • the fan 120 draws are in through the air inlet 122 proximate to the center of the fan 120 blades and then distributes the air out along the fan blades to the return port 118.
  • the motorized centrifugal fan 120 When the lid 110 is in the sealed position on the container 102, the motorized centrifugal fan 120 is operating, and one or more thermal energy storage components 121 are disposed in the interior volume 105 of the container 102, then ambient air from the external environment 111 is drawn through the one or more air intake port 116, if a filter 117 is in place then through the filter 117, into the interior volume 105 of the container 102, down through the at least one thermal diffusion blade 125, into the interior volume 105 and across the one or more thermal energy storage components 121. The air continues to flow, passing throughthrough the air manifold 124, the ambient air being converted to thermally modified air via convection with the one or more thermal energy storage components 121and the air manifold 124.
  • the thermally modified air, (alternatively) filtered, and vapor purified air then continues through an air funnel 127 opening, into the air inlet 122, and out through the return port 118 as return air having a different temperature from the ambient air drawn through the one or more air intake port 116.
  • the at least one thermal diffusion blade is sufficiently long such that the temperature of the air traversing therethrough will be modified to a desired temperature differentiation versus the ambient air temperature to be noticeably warmer or cooler to the user.
  • the air inlet 122 is coupled to the air manifold 124 positioned underneath the fan and extending into the interior volume 105 of the container 102.
  • the air manifold 124 has an air funnel 127 opening at a first end, the air funnel 127 opening fluidly coupled with the air inlet 122 and the supply opening fluidly coupled with the interior volume 105 of the container 102, as depicted in FIG. 1.
  • the air manifold 124 can have a variety of designs for facilitating the flow of air into and out of the interior volume 105 of the container 102 via the air inlet 122.
  • the air manifold 124 can have one central channel fluidly coupling an air funnel 127 at the first end.
  • the supply opening 123 of the at least one thermal diffusion blade 125 can have a plurality of channels fluidly coupling supply opening 123 with the interior volume 105.
  • the ratio of length to width of the at least one thermal diffusion blade 125 can vary based on a size and dimension of the container 102 and the interior volume 105 of the container 102.
  • the thermal diffusion blade 125 length to width ratio can be greater than 10% of the fan diameter.
  • the at least one thermal diffusion blade 125 can also have a plurality of side wall openings for enabling distribution of airflow throughout the interior volume 105 of the container 102.
  • the at least one thermal diffusion blade 125 include a plurality of thermally conductive surface features.
  • the at least one thermal diffusion blade 125 can include one or more of fins, contours, finger projections, or combinations thereof, as would be readily understood by those of skill in the art based on the present disclosure, which increase a thermally conductive surface area of the air manifold 124 relative to a and smoothand linear surface.
  • Each of the at least one thermal diffusion blade 125 is elongate such that it has a length greater than the width, and they are sized and dimensioned to reach into a mid-section, vertically measured, of the interior volume with the supply opening 123 so as to draw air into and over the thermal storage components 121 before it is drawn back out of the interior volume 105.
  • there is at least one thermal diffusion blade there is at least one thermal diffusion blade; however, those of skill in the art will appreciate that there can be, two (as depicted) three, four, or more thermal diffusion blades.
  • the determination of number of blades rests in part on a desired total amount of surface area desired for conductive and convective heat transfer, as well as the total amount of cross-sectional conduit or channel area desired for air intake, as would be appreciated by those of skill in the art given the teachings of the present description and figures. It has been found through experimentation that with two thermal diffusion blades 125, the size of the blade and the length of the blade enable the blade to be positioned on either side of the interior volume and reach into a middle 25% area 158 of the interior volume 105. The middle 25% area 158 is depicted in FIG. 1.
  • the supply opening 123 of the at least one thermal diffusion blade 125 preferably opens to supply the air from the one or more air intake port 116 and draw it down through the at least one thermal diffusion blade 125 and diffuse and disperse the air into the interior volume 105 of the container 102 to wash over the thermal energy storage components 121. If the at least one diffusion blade 125 is to short and the supply opening 123 is too close to the air manifold 124 (i.e., in the upper 25% vertically of the interior volume 105), then the air short-circuits between the supply opening 123 and the air manifold 124 and does not enable a sufficient level of convection to occur with the thermal energy storage components 121.
  • the supply opening 123 can experience blockage by contact with the thermal energy storage components 121 blocking the supply opening 123, or if the thermal energy storage components 121 generate liquid over time (such as when ice melts), then the liquid in the bottom of the container can undesirably block the supply opening 123, hindering airflow into the interior volume 105. All of these considerations must be taken into account when one of skill in the art sizes the quantity and dimensions of the at least one thermal diffusion blade 125.
  • the at least one thermal diffusion blade 125 include attachment means for engaging the at least one thermal diffusion blade 125 include with the one or more thermal energy storage components 121 disposed inside the container 102.
  • the at least one thermal diffusion blade 125 include can include attachment means in the form of posts, slots, ribs, or cups disposed along an outer surface of the at least one thermal diffusion blade 125 include for attachment of the thermal energy storage components 121 to the at least one thermal diffusion blade 125 include (and/or for attachment to the container 102).
  • the thermal energy storage components 121 can include any temperature modifying substances capable of changing a temperature of airflow. Examples of thermal energy storage components 121 include but are not limited to hand warmer pouches of iron oxide crystals, ice cubes, freezable or heatable blocks, chemically activated gel packs, rechargeable battery packs, or freezable gel pouches.
  • the at least one thermal diffusion blade 125 include can have a tapered end configuration with a narrower end of the tapered configuration being proximate the supply opening 123 at the second end in such a way that the tapered configuration is an ice deflector when the container 102 is filled with temperature modifying substances (e.g., ice cubes, crashed ice, shaved ice, etc.) such that the each of the at least one thermal diffusion blade 125 pushes aside the temperature modifying substances as the lid 110 is coupled with the container 102.
  • temperature modifying substances e.g., ice cubes, crashed ice, shaved ice, etc.
  • each of the at least one thermal diffusion blade 125 is sized, shaped, and tapered to prevent the lid 110 and each of the at least one thermal diffusion blade 125 from becoming wedged or locked by contents (e.g., temperature modification substances such as ice) included within the interior volume 105 of the container 102. More specifically, the shape allows for the lid 110 (with the each of the at least one thermal diffusion blade 125 attached thereto) to be forcibly removed by displacing any contents (e.g., ice cubes) in the container 102 without getting lodged between those contents. Additionally, the shape of the air manifold 124 can vary without departing from the scope of the present invention. For example, the air manifold 124 can be round, square, triangle, pentagon, spiral, hexagon, octagonal shaped or corrugated. [0076] The combination of the one or more air intake port 116, the fan 120, the air inlet
  • each of the at least one thermal diffusion blade 125, the air manifold 124, and the return port 118 enable the device 100 to draw in ambient air from the external environment 111 and circulate the air through the interior volume 105 of the container 102 before being exhausted through the return port 118.
  • the addition of temperature modifying substances and/or thermal generating containers or materials will cause the ambient air drawing in through the one or more air intake port 116 to be modified while traveling in and down through each of the at least one thermal diffusion blade 125 and also while inside the interior volume 105 of the container 102 such that the return air (exhaust through the return port 118) will have a different temperature from the ambient air drawn.
  • the temperature will vary based on the temperature of the interior volume 105 and the temperature modifying substances and/or the thermal energy storage components 121 within the container.
  • the materials can produce and exhaust an air flow temperature difference of at least 2 degrees Fahrenheit from the original ambient air temperature in the external environment 111.
  • the air flow temperature change will vary depending on proximity of a user to the return port 118 of the lid 110. For example, if a user is within 2" inches or 5cm to 6" inches or 15 cm from the return port 118 opening to the user may experience a temperature difference between the ambient environment and the air return of about 2 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • FIGS. 3A-3F depict more detailed views of the lid 110 and air manifold 124.
  • FIG.3A is a side view
  • FIGS.3B-3C are side cross-sectional views of the lid 110 with the air manifold attached thereto.
  • FIGS.3D and 3E depict cut-away perspective views of the lid 110.
  • FIG.3F depicts a perspective view of an insulating insert llSthat can be fitted within the lid 110.
  • the lid 110 is designed for removable attachment to the opening 106 of the container 102.
  • the lid 110 can include any combination of mechanical coupling means for removably attaching the lid 110 to the container 102.
  • the lid 110 can include a mechanical coupling means, such as a threaded coupling 126, or one of a friction or interference fit, a latch mechanism, or a magnetic coupling.
  • the lid 110 also includes a gasket seal 128 disposed about the lid 110 that is configured to engage with the container 102 opening 106 when the lid 110 is in a sealed position on the container 102.
  • the gasket seal 128 can include an elastomer gasket seal, a rubber ribbed gasket, an O-ring, or any other gasket seal known in the art.
  • the gasket seal 128 also provides vibration dampening, noise reduction, and thermal preservation between the container 102 opening 106 and the lid 110.
  • the gasket seal 128 provides a vibration absorption perimeter disposed along the entire perimeter of the lid 110 and is sized and dimensioned to form a friction fit with the interior side of the one or more walls of the container 102 and seal the opening 106 of the container 102 when the lid 110 is inserted into the opening 106.
  • the lid 110 is configured to house the components for controlling the airflow from the external environment 111 into and through the interior volume 105 of the container 102 and exhausting the air out through the return port 118.
  • FIG.2 depicts the external components of the lid 110 housing.
  • the external components of the lid 110 housing include the one or more air intake port 116, the return port 118, a power button 130 for operation of the fan 120, and a handle 132.
  • the lid 110 is removably or fixedly attached to the air inlet 122, each of the at least one thermal diffusion blade 125, a filter 117, and the air manifold 124.
  • the lid 110 can include an internal battery compartment or an externally connected battery compartment for supplying power to the fan motor 142.
  • the battery compartment can be weather resistant and include a hinge with a clip, screw, or other mechanical fastener to contain the batteries even during device impact such as if it were dropped on a floor.
  • the one or more air intake port 116 are the location where ambient air from the external environment 111 is pulled into the device 100 (e.g., via the fan 120).
  • the one or more air intake port 116 include one or more internally mounted or externally located movable doors (not depicted) positioned and configured to close or open access to the one or more air intake port.
  • the one or more movable doors can be closed to block the one or more air intake port 116 or opened to provide access to the one or more air intake port 116 in such a way that the door(s) can be closed when the fan 120 is not activated, thereby preserving thermal energy within the container 102.
  • the one or more movable door(s) can also be partially opened/closed to manually control the airflow.
  • the lid 110 can include one or more insulating temperature preservation and sound insulating foam inserts 115 to fill the empty space around and under the assembled fan lid 110 (for example, as shown in US Provisional Application No. 62/637348 filed March 1, 2018 and US Provisional Application No. 62/655392 filed April 10, 2018, both of which are hereby incorporated by reference entirely herein).
  • the one or more insulating foam inserts 115 can be utilized in place of or in addition to the one or more movable doors for the one or more air intake port 116.
  • the one or more insulating foam inserts 115 can partially block the one or more air intake port 116 (e.g., one or more vents creating the one or more air intake port 116) to statically control the amount of airflow needed for the device 100 to operate efficiently while preserving the inside temperature of the container 102.
  • the insulating foam inserts 115 reduce an amount of ambient temperature air inadvertently impacting a temperature of the interior volume 105 of the container 102.
  • the insulating insert 115 is configured to provide air intake and exhaust channels (e.g., channel 116a and matching on opposite side not shown) to allow an airflow to pass over/around the insulating insert 115 into and out of the container 102 that the insulating insert 115 (and the lid 110) is included within.
  • the insulating insert 115 includes a first air intake channel 116a disposed in the perimeter wall of the insulating body, the first air intake channel 116a structurally configured as an air flow pathway from the perimeter wall down and out through the bottom end of the insulating insert 1115.
  • the insulating insert 115 includes a second air intake channel (not shown) disposed in the opposite side that is configured in the same manner as an air flow pathway from the perimeter wall down and out through the bottom end of the insulating body of the insulating insert 115.
  • a second air intake channel (not shown) disposed in the opposite side that is configured in the same manner as an air flow pathway from the perimeter wall down and out through the bottom end of the insulating body of the insulating insert 115.
  • a filter 117 disposed to receive the air from the air intakes 116, and intake channel 116a.
  • the lid 110 includes or is otherwise attached to the air inlet 122 and the air manifold 124.
  • the air inlet 122 and the air manifold 124 can be permanently fixed or friction paired for easy attachment to the fan lid 110 housing opening or sealable fixed and mated to the lid 110 by means of a compression fitting elastomeric gasket. As discussed with respect to FIG. 1, the air inlet 122 and the air manifold 124 are configured to provide a centralized contained air flow channel for circulating airflow (e.g., from the one or more air intake port 116) through the interior volume 105 of the container.
  • the lid 110 includes a handle 132 extending therefrom.
  • the handle 132 can be a molded handle 131a is coupled to the lid 110, as depicted in FIGS. 1, 2, and 3A-3F or the handle 132 can be removably attached to the lid 110 and configured to pivot about the coupling point with the lid 110.
  • the lid 110 can include cutouts in which an end of the handle 132 can be inserted to form a friction fit and rotate freely. This way the user can attach various length handles as needed.
  • the handle 132 is configured to enable a user to carry and hold the device 100 during use.
  • the handle 132 also allows a user to place the device 100 horizontally onto a flat surface and prevent the device 100 from unintentional rolling. Additionally, the handle 132 is sized, shaped, and oriented to support a mobile phone or mobile tablet device at a desired viewing angle for display, prevent accidental on/off switch activation, and/or block accidental power cord dislodgment when connected to an external power source.
  • the fan 120 power state is controlled by the switch/button 130.
  • the fan 120 is a variable speed fan and the button 130 is a variable speed fan control.
  • the button 130 can include variable fan speed graphics including on/off positions (e.g., after low is off, and low through higher is on).
  • the button 130 can be in communication with an internal control that can implement a timer when the button 130 is activated.
  • the timer can be pre-set to operate the fan 120 for a predetermined amount of time, such as e.g., 20 minutes, after which the fan 120 automatically shuts off.
  • the button 130 and the internal control e.g., PCB board
  • the button 130 and the internal control can be further configured to implement a low power and high power fan setting, or other different step level fan settings, as would be appreciated by those of skill in the art.
  • any combination of buttons can be utilized for the button 130 without departing from the scope of the present invention.
  • the button can be a digital switch, an analog switch, a haptic feedback switch, or a combination thereof.
  • FIG. 3B depicts some of the internal components of the lid 110 through the cross-sectional perspective.
  • FIG.3B depicts a motor housing 136, a fan housing 138, and a battery door cover 140.
  • the motor housing 136, the fan housing 138, and the battery door cover 140 form a network of closed compartments configured to prevent ambient temperature air water condensation and modified temperature air water condensation from contact with the connected electrical components located within such compartments.
  • the network of closed compartments contain and protect the one or more electrically connected switches, printed circuit boards (PCBs), light emitting diodes (LEDs), auto-shutoff timer, and batteries.
  • the motor housing 136 and a fan housing 138 can be constructed from any materials known in the art and are designed to safely house a motor 142, the electrical components, and the fan 120 components. Additionally, the protection can be provided through any combination of methods and systems known in the art. For example, protection from ambient temperature air, water condensation, etc. can be provided by a combination of seals containers and insulation materials.
  • the fan housing 138 includes an opening adjacent to the one or more air intake port 116 to allow air from the external environment 111 to be pulled into the fan housing 138 and the air inlet 122.
  • the fan housing 138 includes one or more fins in the opening to control the flow of air and prevent large debris from being pulled into the fan housing 138.
  • the fan housing 138 also includes a hinged battery door cover 140 and a snap latch that locks over into a locked of closed position.
  • the battery door cover 140 is a cover protecting a battery storage compartment 144 for housing and facilitating power transfer from a power source to the motor 142, discussed in greater detail with respect to FIG. 3C.
  • the battery door cover 140 is configured to provide access to and protect the battery storage compartment 144 and the contents thereof (e.g., batteries).
  • the battery door cover 140 can include any combination of mechanical door covers known in the art.
  • the battery door cover 140 can be a hinged door, a removable battery cover (e.g., secured by a screw or other locking mechanism), or other door cover known in the art.
  • the battery door cover 140 When closed and secured (e.g., via screw or other locking mechanism), the battery door cover 140 provides a weather resistant, waterproof, dust resistant seal for the battery storage compartment 144.
  • the battery door cover 140 is equipped for magnetic power cord attachment for plug-free, wireless re-chargeable battery charging, or other power transfer mechanism to convey power to/from a power source within the battery storage compartment 144 without having to open the battery door cover 140.
  • the battery door cover 140 can have a raised or protruding holding tab to place a cell phone or tablet screen face up for viewing on top of the lid 110 handle 132 and battery cover holding tab. The lid handle 132 engages the cell phone screen or tablet screen at a desired viewing angle and is held in position by the battery cover tab.
  • FIG. 3C depicts some of the internal components of the lid 110 (e.g., components within the motor housing and the fan housing 138) through the cross-sectional perspective.
  • FIG. 3C depicts the fan motor 142, the fan 120, and the battery storage compartment 144 accessible via the battery door cover 140.
  • the fan motor 142 controls the rotation of the fan 120 and is powered by the power source located within the battery storage compartment 144.
  • the power source can include any combination of fixedly attached storage (e.g., power cell, fixed rechargeable battery, etc.) and/or replaceable power sources (e.g., batteries, rechargeable batteries, etc.).
  • the device 100 can be powered by any combination of disposable or rechargeable batteries (e.g., AA, AAA, D, etc.), lithium battery, alternating current (AC) micro universal serial bus (USB) power cable, solar energy sources, etc.
  • the power source can be recharged and/or provide energy to other devices (e.g., smartphone) through a wireless or wired connection to a charger (e.g., via wireless charging, USB, micro-USB, multi-pin dock connector, and lighting power connector, etc.).
  • the battery storage compartment 144 houses the power source and electronically connects the power source to the motor 142.
  • the button 130 is connected to both the power source and the motor 142 and controls the power output to the motor 142.
  • FIGS. 3D and 3E depict cross-sectional views of the lid 110 and components included therein.
  • FIGS. 3D and 3E depict alternate views of the components discussed with respect to FIGS.3A-3C.
  • the three-quarter perspective shows how the motor 142, fan 120, the fan housing 138, the air inlet 122, the air manifold 124, and other components relate to one another.
  • FIG 3E depicts the multiple curved fan blade design of the fan 120.
  • the lid 110 and components included therein are weather resistant to protect the internal mechanical and electrical operation of the components.
  • the lid 110 can include other electronic components stored within the housings 136, 138, 144 and powered/controlled by the power source and button 130.
  • the electronic components can include a printed circuit board or equivalent for a light emitting diode(s) (LED(s)) incorporated within the lid 110 (e.g., on top the top surface of the lid 110) to indicate to a user, the power status of the device 100 (or present other alerts/notifications).
  • LED(s) light emitting diode(s)
  • the LED indicators can be viewable from any interior or exterior surface of the lid 110 and is not limited to a top surface of the lid 110.
  • the lid 110 can include an internal temperature sensor connected to the LED.
  • the internal temperature sensor can be configured to read an internal air temperature within the interior volume 105 of the container and update the LED based on the measure temperature. For example, indicate a LED color of white, green, blue for cooler temperatures and yellow, red, orange for warmer temperatures.
  • an auto-shutoff timer can be provided.
  • the electronic components can also include a wireless communication component configured to wirelessly communicate using one or more of radio frequency (RF), Wi-Fi, cellular, Bluetooth, Bluetooth Low Energy, personal area network (PAN), short- wavelength UHF, or combinations thereof.
  • the wireless communication component can be coupled with a control mechanism that is controlling the fan 120 operation in such a way that the fan 120 is controllable by separate device (e.g., smartphone) in wireless communication with the control mechanism via the wireless communication component.
  • the electronic components can further include a microphone configured receive voice commands translated to commands for a control mechanism controlling operation of the fan 120.
  • the lid 110 can include any combination of electronic components found in electrically controlled portable devices.
  • the device is configured to be compatible with a number of different accessory and optional features (not depicted).
  • Some optional accessories and features include but are not limited to a removable insulating jacket cover sized, dimensioned, and configured to fit around the container 102, a temperature sensor, and corresponding temperature display, disposed on the device 100 for sensing air temperature, an ultrasonic electronic water mist generator for supplying water mist to the return port 118, an aromatic diffuser for supplying aroma to the return port 118, a liquid medication diffusor for supplying air flow medication out through the return port 118, a water mist generator coupled with a water source, one or more washable and reusable air filtering layers coupled to a collar with two or more air intake channels in fluid
  • the filtering layers and filters 117 can include any combination of a disposable air filter, carbon-based filter, a HEP A air filter, etc.
  • the filtering layers and filters 117 can include any combination of antimicrobial component, such as but not limited to silver or other antimicrobial materials or technologies as would be understood by those of skill in the art.
  • the lid 110 includes a fixed carry ring element (not depicted) configured for attachment to another storage or carrying device.
  • the lid 110 can include a carabiner for attachment to a backpack or other type of bag to enable hands free carrying of the device 100.
  • the carry ring element can be positioned anywhere on the outer surface of the lid 110 that enables such an attachment.
  • the overall assembled device 100 is sized, dimensioned, and configured in such a way that the device 100 is portable and removably and replaceably mounts in a conventional cup holder, such as would be found in an automobile, a stroller, a shopping cart, or the like.
  • the device 100 can be sized, shaped, and configured in any dimensions known in the art without departing from the functionality of the present invention in terms of heating and cooling operation (but not necessarily with respect to being able to fit within a conventional cup holder).
  • the lid 110 can be sized, shaped, and dimensions to universally fit a variety of existing commercially available containers.
  • the external sides of the lid 110 including a battery door cover 140, the button 130 and any other switches, the handle 132 are constructed of less-heat absorbing materials, finishes, or colors to reduce heat absorption by the fan 120 for use in extreme ambient temperatures or sunlight.
  • the device 100 can be constructed utilizing any combination of manufacturing methods known in the art and can include any number of pieces coupled together or a single molded/printed device. Additionally, each of the components of the device 100 can be constructed from any combination of materials known in the art. Preferably the device 100 is constructed from light weight components to provide a lite weight portable device 100. For example, ideally, the total device 100 weighs less than lOlbs, preferably less than 51bs, and more preferably less than 21bs.
  • the motorized centrifugal fan 120 is operating, and one or more thermal energy storage components 121 are disposed in the interior volume 105 of the container 102, then ambient air is drawn through the one or more air intake port 116 optionally passes through a filter 117, then through the at least one thermal diffusion blade 125, out through the supply openings 123 into the interior volume 105 of the container 102 and across the one or more thermal energy storage components 121, through the air manifold 124, the ambient air being converted to thermally modified air via convection with the one or more thermal energy storage components and the at least one thermal diffusion blade 125, the thermally modified air then continuing through the air funnel 127 opening (e.g., in the fan housing 138), into the air inlet 122, and out through the return port 118 as return air having a different temperature from the ambient air drawn through the one or more air intake port 116.
  • the air funnel 127 opening e.g., in the fan housing 138
  • the device 100 of the present invention when activated, provides either a cooling air flow from chilled air or a heating airflow from heated air based on a temperature of the contents with the interior volume 105 of the container 102 relative to ambient air temperature in the external environment 111.
  • the combination of the contents of the interior volume 105 (e.g., ice, heat packs, etc.), the air manifold, and the lid 110 assembly containing the fan 120 create a heating or cooling effect by heating or chilling an ambient temperature air intake with the contents of the container 102 and transferring the thermal energy into the airflow of the air manifold 124.
  • transfer of thermal energy occurs when the air enters remotely from one or more air intake port 116 and flows downward or in the direction of a flow path A ( see FIG.3F) instigated by the fan 120 generated vacuum, which air flow passes alongside the air manifold 124 within the container.
  • the resulting modified airflow is then exhausted out through the return port 118 via flow path B ( see FIG.3F) toward a user.
  • Each of the at least one thermal diffusion blade 125 is fluidly coupled with the respective air intake channel 116a on the left or right side of the device 100.
  • the airflow path flows down through the insulating insert 115, through the filter 117 and down through the interior conduits or channels of each of the at least one thermal diffusion blade 125.
  • Each of the at least one thermal diffusion blade 125 is immersed in the interior volume 105 of the device where the thermal storage components 121 provide either heating or chilling energy (depending on what form of thermal storage component 121 is being utilized). Conduction occurs between the thermal storage components 121, and any liquid in the interior volume (such as what may result from melting ice) and the at least one thermal diffusion blade. As the intake airflow travels down into the device through the at least one thermal diffusion blade 125, convection thermal energy transfer occurs between the airflow and the at least one thermal diffusion blade 125 through which the air is traveling. The airflow exits the at least one thermal diffusion blade 125 at the supply openings 123 and spills into the interior volume, washing over, around, and through the thermal storage components 121.
  • the air is now thermally modified and the draw force of the motorized air movement mechanism such as a motorized fan 120 draws the thermally modified air up through the air manifold 124 and out through the return port 118 to either a nozzle 152 coupled with the return port 118 and or the flexible hose 150 for delivery to the user as shown in FIGS. 4 and 5.
  • the use of the nozzle 152 which can be a Venturi style nozzle, or other nozzle for boosting air velocity, increases and focuses the velocity of the airflow out of the device 100.
  • the air projects further out from the device, enabling the device to be placed, e.g., on a desk in front of the user and for the user to experience thermally modified air (heated or chilled) at a distance of 2 to 4 feet from the device 100.
  • the lid 110 is configured to couple with an extendable, multi-position flexible delivery tube 150.
  • FIG.5 depicts example implementations of the lid 110 with the tube 150 being attached thereto.
  • FIG.5 depicts tube 150 being attached to the lid 110 via a friction fitting at the air return port 118 whereby the user installs the tube 150 to direct air flow remotely away from the device 100.
  • the tube 150 can be affixed to the air return port 118 utilizing any mechanism known in the art.
  • the tube 150 is positionable in a plurality of different directions so as to enable the user to direct airflow as desired.
  • the positionable functionality is achieved by making the tube 150 flexible, such as for example, by constructing the tube of a rubber or plastic material, which could be corrugated.
  • the tube 150 enables remote placement of the device 100 while providing the benefits of the device 100 to the user.
  • the tube 150 can further include a mounting clip (not shown, but readily understood by those of skill in the art) configured to removably attach the tube 150 at a desired location to directionally control blowing air emitted therefrom.
  • a mounting clip (not shown, but readily understood by those of skill in the art) configured to removably attach the tube 150 at a desired location to directionally control blowing air emitted therefrom.
  • the container 102 can be placed into a cup holder of a stroller, and when the device 100 is activated the modified temperature airflow out from the device 100 can be delivered and directed to a nearby child seated in the stroller via the extendable tube 150.
  • the tube 150 can be provided in any combination of lengths and diameters without departing from the functionality of the present invention.
  • the tube 150 can be configured to extend in 1/4" increments from approximately 6" to 28".
  • the tube 150 can be flexible in design and configured to hold its shape.
  • a user can extend the tube 150 around 90 degree comers without effect to airflow. The benefit of remote airflow delivery is to reduce noise and vibration, as well as obscure the motorized device from the intended benefactor.
  • FIG. 6A shows a bottom view of the lid and FIG.6B shows a front view of the lid and return port.
  • the return port 118 is utilized to provide the modified (e.g., heated or chilled) airflow created by the present invention to a user.
  • the return port 118 can be fixed, articulable, or a combination thereof, to enable the user to direct the return air in a desired direction. It can also include an internally located safety grill to prevent debris or small fingers from entering the motorized fan 120 blades.
  • a nozzle 152 can be coupled with the return port 118 sized, dimensioned, and configured to increase airflow velocity, and/or focus the airflow, as would be appreciated by those of skill in the art.
  • FIG 7A is a perspective view of the lid 110 and battery compartment 144 of the device 1100.
  • FIGS. 7B and 7C are side views of the lid 110 mounted on the container 102 of the device 100.
  • FIG. 8A is a cross-sectional side view of the lid 110, filter 117, and thermal diffusion blades 125 of the device 100.
  • FIG. 8B is a cross sectional front view of the lid 110, filter 117, and thermal diffusion blades 125 of the device 100.
  • FIG. 8C is an underside perspective views of the lid 110 of the device 100.
  • the thermally modified, filtered, and vapor purified air then continues through the air funnel 127 opening (e.g., in the fan housing 138), and out through the return port 118 as return air having a different temperature from the ambient air drawn through the at least one air intake port 116.
  • the device 100 of the present invention when activated, provides either a cooling air flow or a heating airflow based on a temperature of the contents with the interior volume 105 of the container 102 relative to ambient air temperature in the external environment 111.
  • the combination of the contents of the interior volume 105 (e.g., ice, heat packs, etc.), one or more thermal diffusion blades 125 the air manifold 124, and the lid 110 assembly containing the fan 120 create a heating or cooling effect by heating or chilling an ambient temperature air intake with the contents of the container 102 one or more thermal diffusion blades 125.
  • transfer of thermal energy occurs when the air enters remotely from at least one air intake port 116 and flows downward or in the direction of a flow path instigated by the fan 120 generated vacuum, which air flow passes through the one or more thermal diffusion blades 125 within the container 102.
  • the resulting modified airflow is then exhausted out through the return port 118 toward a user.
  • This modified airflow (thermally modified, filtered, and vapor purified) has as part of its properties a perceptible temperature difference relative to the ambient air.
  • the perceptible temperature difference between the modified airflow and the ambient air is sensed by the user/operator.
  • the perceptible temperature difference is one of warmer air versus ambient air temperature.
  • the perceptible temperature difference is one of chilled air versus ambient air temperature.
  • the device 100 is heating a temperature of the modified airflow exhausting out through the return port 118 as return air can have a temperature of about 120°F.
  • a temperature of the modified airflow exhausting out through the return port 118 as return air can have a temperature of about 50°F.
  • ambient air is room temperature, or about 76°F
  • ambient air temperature is much cooler, such as outside in a cold climate
  • temperature differences between ambient air and heated modified airflow exhausting out through the return port 118 are extremely perceptible.
  • a temperature difference of 1-2 degrees on the Fahrenheit scale are perceptible temperature variations or differences.
  • a chilled modified airflow of 74°F is considered as it relates to the present invention to be a perceptible temperature difference.
  • a heated modified airflow of 78°F is also considered to be a perceptible temperature difference.
  • a heated or chilled temperature difference of greater than 1-2 degrees differential is even more perceptible, and therefore falls within the scope of the present invention as it relates to generation of a modified airflow that has a perceptible temperature difference relative to ambient air temperature.
  • ambient air temperature will impact the temperature of the modified airflow exhausting out the return port 118.
  • the device 100 of the present invention generates a temperature differential between intake ambient air and exhausted return air.
  • the temperature of the modified airflow will be similar to the above example (e.g., 76°F ambient will result in about a 120°F heated modified airflow temperature, or a 50°F chilled modified airflow temperature).
  • the temperature of the ambient air is substantially cooler (e.g., such as 32°F) then the exhausted return air will likely not achieve 120°F, but a lower temperature (e.g., of about 75°F).
  • the temperature of the ambient air is substantially warmer (e.g., such as 90°F) then the exhausted return air will likely not achieve 50°F, but a warmer temperature (e.g., of about 65°F).
  • a warmer temperature e.g., of about 65°F.
  • thermodynamic principals and factors that contribute to the specific exhaust airflow temperatures that will result from operation of the device 100 of the present invention, each of which is calculable with certain variables being known, and all of which fall within the teachings of the present invention as it relates to modified airflow temperatures. It is important to note that the temperature differential between the exhaust airflow temperatures and the ambient air temperature is not due to a wind chill factor, but rather to an actual difference in temperature.
  • the perceptible temperature difference between ambient air and the modified air is that the temperature difference being perceptible provides for a method by which the user/operator is enabled to sense when heated or chilled modified airflow is being directed as desired.
  • the user/operator can place their hand or face or other exposed skin area into the airflow and sense or perceive the temperature difference. With that perceptible temperature difference, the user/operator is able to distinguish where the thermally modified, filtered, and vapor purified airflow is flowing, and direct it accordingly.
  • the user/operator is enabled by the device 100 of the present invention to direct chilled modified air toward, e.g., their face, and sense a temperature difference (e.g., a difference of about 25 degrees with a chilled modified airflow temperature of about 60°F) and know exactly where the temperature modified and filtered air is flowing.
  • a temperature difference e.g., a difference of about 25 degrees with a chilled modified airflow temperature of about 60°F
  • This airflow can be directed toward the user’s face and they can have certainty that the air is filtered and pollen has been removed.
  • the user/operator receives the benefit of both the temperature modification and the air filtration, in the airflow that is directed as desired.
  • FIGS. 9 to 16 depict exemplary exploded views of the lid 110, the insulating insert 115, and air filter 117 having one or more thermal diffusion blades 125, and how they fit together to form the personal ambient air temperature modification, filtration, and purification device 100.
  • FIG. 9 depicts exemplary exploded views of the lid 110, the insulating insert 115, and air filter 117 having one or more thermal diffusion blades 125, and how they fit together to form the personal ambient air temperature modification, filtration, and purification device 100.
  • FIG. 9 is a front isometric exploded view of the lid 110, the insulating insert 115, and the air filter 117 having one or more thermal diffusion blades 125 of the personal ambient air temperature modification, filtration, and purification device 100.
  • FIG. 10 is a front isometric exploded view of the lid 110, the insulating insert 115, and the air filter 117 having one or more thermal diffusion blades 125 of the personal ambient air temperature modification, filtration, and purification device 100 wherein the air filter 117 is disengaged from the insulating insert 115.
  • FIG. 11A is an exploded view of an insulating insert 115 and filter 117 having the at least one thermal diffusion blade 125, and FIG.
  • FIG. 11B shows the insulating insert 115 and the filter 117 having at least one thermal diffusion blade 125 coupled together in full assembly configuration
  • FIG. 11C shows alternate views of the insulating insert 115 and filter 117 having at least one thermal diffusion blade 125 coupled together in full assembly configuration
  • FIG. 12 is a front isometric exploded view of the filter 117 and woven poly fabric layers inserted into the filter 117 of the personal ambient air temperature modification, filtration, and purification device 100.
  • FIGS. 13A and 13B are a top view and an isometric side view of the insulating insert 115 and the filter 117 having at least one thermal diffusion blade 125 coupled in full assembly configuration.
  • FIGS. 13C and 13D are a top view and an isometric side view of the at least one thermal diffusion blade 125 and an air filter 117 with one filter type coupled in full assembly configuration.
  • FIGS. 13E and 13F are a top view and an isometric side view of the at least one thermal diffusion blade 125 and an air filter 117 with an alternate filter type coupled in full assembly configuration.
  • FIGS. 13G and 13H are a top view and an isometric side view of the at least one filter 117 and thermal diffusion blade 125 coupled in full assembly configuration.
  • FIG. 14 is a right side exploded view of the lid 110, the insulating insert 115, and air filter 117 having one or more thermal diffusion blades 125 of the personal ambient air temperature modification, filtration, and purification device 100.
  • FIG. 15 is a rear exploded view of the lid 110, the insulating insert 115, and the air filter 117 having one or more thermal diffusion blades 125 of the personal ambient air temperature modification, filtration, and purification device 100.
  • FIG. 16 is a left side exploded view of the lid 110, the insulating insert 115, and the air filter 117 having one or more thermal diffusion blades 125 of the personal ambient air temperature modification, filtration, and purification device 100.
  • the insulating insert 115 In operation, (and as shown in FIGS. 9-16), the insulating insert 115 enables the container 102 that the insulating insert 115 is attached thereto/therein (e.g., the personal ambient air temperature modification, filtration, and purification device 100) to be significantly more efficient in maintaining an internal temperature in either hot or cold weather for extended periods of time.
  • the insulating insert 115 provides an insulated intake air flow channel to isolate core air flow channel from ambient temperature.
  • the insulated body of the insulating insert 115 isolates container 102 space from exterior lid 110 components (e.g., fan) to maximize insulation properties of a motorized lid 110 constructed with a motorized fan air intake opening within a closed personal ambient air temperature modification, filtration, and purification device 100.
  • exterior lid 110 components e.g., fan
  • the air filter 117 can take a number of different forms and be made of different materials, as would be understood by those of skill in the art.
  • the air filter 117 can be a fiberglass filter, a polyester filter, a carbon filter, or a high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter, or alternatively an air ionizing and purifying technology.
  • the air filter 117 as shown is removable and replaceable. It fits within the air channels 116a, 116b, and is removably and replaceably coupled with the insulating insert 115.
  • Other structures that place the air filter in the path of airflow A can be appreciated by those of skill in the art based on the teachings herein to fall within the scope of the present invention.
  • the air filter 117 can additionally be formed as part of the insulating insert 115 or can be a separate component.
  • the air filter can be made available in different colors to readily indicate to a user the type of particulate that is being filtered (e.g., black for smoke, yellow for pollen, etc.).
  • An LED indicator can be provided to indicate the status of the air filter based on predetermined parameters, such as operating time of a motorized air movement mechanism 120, such as a fan, that causes movement of air through the system. Air passing through the air filter 117 is filtered and/or purified depending on the structure of the air filter 117. Likewise, an LED or other light source can be provided positioned and configured to illuminate the air channels 116a, 116b.
  • the light source can be single color or multi-colored, and can be powered by the same power source as a personal ambient air temperature modification, filtration, and purification device 100 in which it is mounted.
  • the personal ambient air temperature modification, filtration, and purification device 100 is formed from the assembly of the lid 110, the air filter 117 having one or more thermal diffusion blades 125, and the insulation insert 106 being installed on a container 102.
  • the lid 110 is threaded into the opening of the container 102 with the air filter 117 having one or more thermal diffusion blades 125 located within the interior volume of the container 102.
  • intake airflow A comes into the lid 110, travels down the interior side of the container 102 and back up through the manifold 124 as exhausted return airflow B as depicted and described below, without the intake airflow A pooling or otherwise interacting with the exhausted return airflow B.
  • FIGS. 9-16 depict example airflows and how the airflow intake and airflow exhaust are separated by the insulating insert 115 and air filter 117.
  • an intake airflow A is pulled into the lid 110 through the air inlet 122 by a motorized fan within the lid 110, as discussed in greater detail with respect to U.S. Patent Application No. 15/699,472 (hereby incorporated herein by reference).
  • air channels 116a, 116b drive the air down into the side of the container 102.
  • the combination of the channels 116a, 116b, and the forces proved by a motorized fan within the lid 110 prevents air from lingering at the top of the container 102.
  • the airflow A flows down along the wall of the container 102 into an interior of the container 102.
  • Driving the air down the inside walls of the container 102 makes a significant difference because it thermally isolates the ambient air within the container 102 away from the modified air exhausting from the container 102 (e.g., airflow B through exhaust port). It is beneficial to keep the ambient air intake and modified air exhaust as separate and thermally isolated as possible to prevent heat transfer between the two (if the ambient air heats up the exhaust port because there is insufficient insulation between the two, then the output air is not as cold or as hot as it otherwise could be).
  • the ambient air is pulled in through the air inlet 122/channels 116a, 116b and along the sidewalls of the container 102 (e.g., airflow A) the ambient air is being chilled by the cold thermal material in the interior volume. Thereafter the temperature modified air is exhausted out toward a user (e.g., airflow B).
  • airflow A when an air filter 117 is in position as depicted herein, the air passing therethrough is filtered and/or purified based on the structure of the air filter 117.
  • the air filter 117 may comprise an air filter collar that couples to the insulator insert and functions to hold multiple air filter layers, where the air filter layers and air filters 117 can include any combination of a disposable air filter, fiberglass filter, polyester filter, carbon filter, or a high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter, etc.
  • HEPA high efficiency particulate air
  • the filtered ambient air is drawn through the one or more thermal diffusion blades 125 into the interior volume 105 of the container 102 and across a combination fluid vapor source and thermal energy storage component 121 disposed in the interior volume 105 to benefit from the cold air filtration process described herein.
  • the combination fluid vapor source and thermal energy storage component 121 uses simple thermal energy, by heating or chilled, to modify the humidity and proportionate composition of liquid, gas, and vapor in the interior volume 105 of the container 102 where interaction of matter of different temperatures results in heat transfer inducing phase transitions, thereby generating, through processes including sublimation, melting, evaporation, convection and condensation, a net of fluid droplets, that may take the form of fluid vapor, that bind and entrap airborne particles from the filtered air flowing through the interior volume 105 of the container 102, effectively capturing the particulates and preventing their introduction back into an environment.
  • the motorized air movement mechanism draws air through the interior volume 105 of the container 102 so as to change pressure in the container, impacting phase transition dynamics and specific thermal energy storage components 121 can undergo chemical reactions that absorb air but not water molecules or produce additional water molecules as a byproduct of reactions using air as a reagent.
  • variables of the ideal gas equation e.g. temperature or pressure
  • Particulates include, but are not limited to, pollen, dust, and smoke, or any particulate that is able to pass through the filter 117 (or other similarly situated filter) undeterred.
  • Fluid droplets adhere to airborne particles passing through the interior volume 105 of the container 102 by collision, electromagnetic attraction, chemical reaction, or as a result of surface condensation, effectively capturing that particle. Once captured, the resulting combination of particle and droplet have increased in size and mass such that it is not possible to ascend with the airflow moving up through the manifold 124 and so remain detained within the interior volume 105 of the container 102, not to be delivered into an external environment 111.
  • This cold air filtration occurs in conjunction with the thermal modification of the air and does not require the separate application of heat, chemicals, or UV light to provide filtration.
  • Filtration by a mechanical air filter 117 combined with particle vapor adhesion and capture of cold air filtration reduces the amount of airborne particles diffused back into an environment, providing a user with a concentrated dose of thermally modified, filtered, and vapor purified air that is perceptibly different to a user, providing a “sense of the reduction” of airborne particulates that is not possible with other purification systems and methods that immediately diffuse the results of purification.
  • the thermal change in air temperature interacts with the thermal energy storage components 121 and, by processes including sublimation and condensation, creates complex moisture surfaces inside the container 102, including the interior side 112 of the container 102 facing the interior volume 105 and the one or more thermal diffusion blades 125.
  • Fluid droplets and complex moisture surfaces enable small and large particulates to adhere to the interior of the system, further reducing the amount of airborne particles diffused back into an environment.
  • the vapor adhesion can be explained as follows.
  • VPE vapor particle entrapment
  • the provided cold air filtration of the present invention makes use of condensation caused by the chilling and condensation of moisture of within the internal volume of the container that occurs even when the air being modified by the device is being chilled. That is, no dry heat, chemicals, or UV light needs to be applied, which could undermine the desired chilling of the air, to gain the filtration benefit of the device.
  • a conventional mechanical filtration system for particles larger than 0.3 microns, such as pollen, ragweed and common dust size particles together with the VPE technology of cold air filtration for attracting smaller, airborne particulates to the wet surfaces and water droplets generated by both ice and exothermic heat pods, results in further purification of the filtered air.
  • the thermal energy used combination fluid vapor source and thermal energy storage component 121 to perform these processes can be supplied by any of the thermal energy sources contemplated by this invention (e.g., ice, ice packs, cold water, iron oxide, gel pack, battery generator heat pack) or readily apparent to those skilled in the art.
  • the combination fluid vapor source and thermal energy storage component may also be configured to use more than one thermal energy source to perform these processes.
  • the device 100 of the present invention provides substantially improved cleaning of air.
  • HEPA filters or HEPA-type filters
  • the addition of the vapor purification adhering to particles that make it through the filter 117 removes additional particles from the air, making the resulting temperature modified, filtered, and vapor purified air some degree cleaner than air that has been simply filtered and not water vapor purified.
  • the present invention achieves an improved air reduction or removal of airborne particles relative to other known air filtration systems or devices that do not combine mechanical or other filtration with adhesion via passing the air through a water vapor enhanced environment.
  • air is transformed into vapor purified air by cold air filtration using vapor capture when air in interior volume 105 of the container 102 flows through ice cubes lowering ambient air temperature, whereby passage through tortuous ice surfaces creates phase changes in the ice and air including sublimation followed by condensation and this exposure of the passing air to water droplets and water vapor, creates vapor adhesion and particle capture, and also forces modified temperature air to pass through a mechanical airflow system at a different temperature than ambient temperature, enabling increased airborne particle entrapment, thereby improving filtration beyond use of mechanical filtration alone.
  • the thermal energy storage component reacts with the air, removing air but leaving fluid molecules, for example water molecules present in ambient air, and adds heat and can additionally add water as a byproduct of the reaction with the thermal energy storage component.
  • This coupled with any change in pressure imparted from the motorized air movement mechanism results in the presence of additional fluid droplets, including in the form of vapor and condensation that capture airborne particulates.
  • the air passing inside the interior volume 105 of the container 102 is additionally warmed by exothermic heating provided by thermal energy sources (e.g.
  • a chemically induced heat pack that can include Air-activated hand warmers containing cellulose, iron, water, activated carbon, vermiculite (water reservoir) and salt, and produce heat from the exothermic oxidation of iron when exposed to air.) of the fluid vapor source and thermal energy storage component 121, which uses thermal energy to promote evaporation, humidity changes, vapor movement and subsequent condensation within the interior volume 105 of the container 102, including the one or more thermal diffusion blades 125, creating complex moisture surfaces that enable small and large particulates to adhere to the interior of the system, and thereby forcing modified temperature air to pass through a mechanical airflow system at a different temperature than ambient temperature, enabling increased airborne particle entrapment, thereby further reducing the amount of airborne particles and improving filtration beyond use of mechanical filtration alone.
  • the insulating insert 115 and the air filter 117 can together form a multi-channel airflow manager that when the fan 120 is operating, supply air flows in to the interior volume 105 of the container 102 through an air inlet 122 that comprises two or more air intake ports 116 and a plurality of airflow channels 116a, 116b, etc., divided as a manifold through the insulating insert 115, and then the air filter 117 collar is configured to merge airflows of the air channels 116a, 116b, etc.
  • the insulating insert 115 and the air filter 117 can also be formed as a single removable insert with an air filter 117 that attaches to the base of the insulating insert 115 that in turn functions as a multi-channel airflow manager supplying air through multiple air channels 116a, 116b, etc., into the interior volume 105 of the container 102 where the filtered air transforms into thermally modified, filtered, and vapor purified air by passing across the at least one combination fluid vapor source and thermal energy storage component 121 through manifold 124 as part of a separate central air channel 162 insulated from the other air channelsl 16a, 116b, etc., formed by the insulating insert 115, before the motorized air movement mechanism 120 delivers the air out the air return port 118.
  • FIGS. 9-16 show the insulating insert 115 and the air filter 117 can together form a multichannel airflow manager that when the fan 120 is operating, supply air flows in to the interior volume 105 of the container 102 through an air inlet 122 that comprises two or more air intake ports 116 and a plurality of airflow channels 116a, 116b, etc., divided as a manifold through the insulating insert 115, and then the air filter 117 collar is configured to merge airflows of the air channels 116a, 116b, etc.
  • the air filter layers can be the 4 air filter layers of woven fibers of polypropylene fabric die cut or laser cut into a circular disc shape, wherein each filter layer is stacked and oriented at 30 to 90 degrees to an adjacent fabric layer to create a tortuous airflow pathway, trapping airborne particles while maintaining airflow.
  • the air filter 117 can include, or be coupled to, at least one thermal diffuser 125, for improved air flow thermal regulation prior to contact with thermal energy storage components, where, prior to exiting the supply opening 123 of each of the thermal diffusers 125, filtered air from the air filter layers of the air filter 117 is exposed to convection occurring due to the increased surface area of the each of the longitudinal bodies of thermal diffusers 125, thereby transferring thermal energy, hot or cold, and imparting it into the airflow, this convection uses the temperature characteristics created in the interior volume 105 of the container 102 created by the at least one combination fluid vapor source and thermal energy storage component 121 prior to direct contact with the at least one combination fluid vapor source and thermal energy storage component 121.
  • the process of filtration, purification, and temperature modification then proceeds as in the other embodiments, moving from contact with the at least one combination fluid vapor source and thermal energy storage component 121 to entrance into the intake of the manifold 124 and eventually out of the air return port 118 into the environment 111 of the user.
  • FIG. 17 depicts an isometric illustration of the lid and an insulating insert shown in exploded view that that shows application of the antimicrobial agent, defined to include antiviral, antibacterial, antimicrobial, antiseptic, and germicidal compounds or chemicals known in the art.
  • the antimicrobial agent is applied as a spray or mist injected into the intake ports 116 of the lid 110 of the device 100, to create a two stage air purifier filter where air flow characteristics of the device 100 operate to create an even distribution of antimicrobial agent for an extended period of time duration following application that destroys germs on contact and serves as an all-purpose sanitizer spray and air purifier filter sanitizer to clean and disinfect device 100 component during operation.
  • the antimicrobial agent may be present in an aqueous solution or may additionally comprise scented elements that serve to freshen air in the system with a subtle fragrance to further enhance filter, purified, temperature controlled exhaust air delivered to the user.
  • the antimicrobial agent and/or sanitizer spray or mist functions by“antiseptic contact” to airborne particles entering the device 100 and air filter 117 treated with the antimicrobial spray.
  • the device 100 and air filter 117 can operate in a weather resistant configuration, that can further benefit from the repeated use of an antimicrobial or sanitizing spray mist to help disinfect or sanitize 99% of the common disease causing germ particles that come in contact with the surfaces of the device 100 and air filter 117.
  • One spray on each intake port or vent during device 100 use supplies clean, fresh, sanitized air to further improve purified air.
  • Each formulation of the antimicrobial agent can comprise a category 1 active ingredient, making it safe and effective for use on humans when used as directed, and may possess additional beneficial properties such as moisturizing, and may be further formulated to prevent the smell of alcohol from disturbing users.
  • Antimicrobial agents or active ingredients thereof may include one or more of ethyl alcohol denat (denatured alcohol), aloe vera, glycererth-26 glyceryl ester, radish root ferment filtrate, mint extract or oil, lavender oil, sage oil, lemon oil, lime oil, orange oil, multitudinous oil, humectant or lubricant, or combinations thereof.
  • ethyl alcohol denat denatured alcohol
  • aloe vera aloe vera
  • glycererth-26 glyceryl ester radish root ferment filtrate
  • mint extract or oil lavender oil, sage oil, lemon oil, lime oil, orange oil, multitudinous oil, humectant or lubricant, or combinations thereof.
  • FIG. 18 shows an exemplary flowchart depicting operation of the present invention. Specifically, FIG. 18 depicts an exemplary flowchart showing the process 600 for carrying out the operation of the device 100 to provide cooling or heating to a user.
  • the user inserts the heating or chilling elements (e.g., the combination fluid vapor source and thermal energy storage components 121) into the interior volume 105 within the container 102 (and attached to the air manifold and thermal energy concentrator 124).
  • the user inserts the lid 110 into the opening 106 of the container 102.
  • the lid 110 is sealed, by the vibration absorption perimeter gasket seal 128, within the opening 106 of the container 102.
  • the user directs the positioning of the return port 118 and/or the tube in the direction that the modified airflow is desired.
  • Step 606 can also include attaching the optional the tube to the return port 118 of the lid 110.
  • the user activates the device 100 (e.g., turning on the variable speed fan control 130) and the device 100 intakes ambient air, filters the air, purifies the air, modifies the air and produces the thermally modified, filtered, and vapor purified air output from the ambient temperature air intake.
  • the user can modify the fan speed by adjusting the variable speed fan control 130.
  • the importance of the fan speed is that when the device 100 is used with different materials providing thermal energy sources (e.g., ice, ice packs, cold water, iron oxide, gel pack, battery generator heat pack) the fan speed can be tailored to provide the most beneficial temperature difference out from the container 102.
  • higher fan speeds can cause the ambient air to pass more quickly through the device 100 and therefore have less opportunity to absorb thermal energy (resulting in cooler warm air flow if attempting to heat, or warmer cool air flow if attempting to cool as it exits through the return port 118).
  • lower fan speeds may be more desirable for ambient air temperature modification when used for small children and or pets.
  • Lower fan speeds can also cause less vibration and less collateral noise generation.
  • operation of the device 100 includes an intake of ambient temperature air through the at least one air intake port 116 and air inlet 122. While the air from the air inlet 122 is forced through the air channel 116a it passes through an air filter 117 and across the combination fluid vapor source and thermal energy storage component 121 thereby filtering and purifying the air.
  • the ambient temperature filter, purified air is forced through the air manifold and thermal energy concentrator 124, the ambient temperature air is exposed to multiple temperature modifying surfaces adjacent to the elongate air manifold of the thermal energy concentrator 124 prior to being drawn into a type fan housing 138 and out toward a localized area user through the return port 118 (and optionally through the tube coupled with the return port 118), thereby supplying temperature- modified air to the user.
  • Device A made use of a single thermal concentrator affixed to the air manifold 127 and extending down into a lower 25% region of the interior compartment of the container 102, configured to draw air out of the interior volume 105, up through the concentrator, through the air manifold 127, through the fan 120, and out the return port 118.
  • Two air intake ports 116 fed air into the interior compartment 105 and supplied the air into the upper 25% area of the container 102.
  • Device B made use of at least one thermal diffusion blade 125 (in fact, two thermal diffusion blades 125 as depicted herein) coupled with two air intake ports 116, one on each side of the motorized lid 110.
  • the two thermal diffusion blades 125 extended down into the interior volume 105 with the supply opening 123 positioned around the middle 25% area 158 of the interior volume, as depicted herein.
  • the air was drawn in through two air intake ports 116, down through the two thermal diffusion blades 125, out the supply opening 123 into the interior volume, across the thermal storage components 121 (ice), and up and out of the interior volume 105 through the air manifold 124, through the fan 120, and out the return port 118. Ice was used as the thermal storage components 121 in both Device A and Device B.
  • Device B operating in 85°F ambient air intake temperature output 53°F initially, 57°F 20 minutes into operation, 67°F 60 minutes into operation.
  • Device B in accordance with the present invention provided cooler air after more mn time and for at least three times longer than Device A.
  • Device B output air at 9 Miles Per Hour (mph), and with a nozzle 152 attached to the return port 118 the return air speed increased to 11 mph. As such, the nozzle 152 is shown to increase air speed.
  • the nozzle additionally focuses the air flow into a narrower jet versus the more dispersive return port 118 on its own, which enables a user to feel the return air flow at a distance of 18 to 20 inches out from the return port 118 instead of a distance of only about 6 to 8 inches without the nozzle.
  • Device B was able to sustain a temperature differential of greater than 18°F for a duration of at least 60 minutes with ice as the thermal storage component 121. It is therefore anticipated that the present invention is capable of achieving an ambient air to a return air temperature differential of at least 15° and can include temperature differentials of 20°F to 30°F for periods of time between zero and 20 minutes of continuous operation. More specifically, the present invention is capable of achieving an ambient air to return air temperature differential using ice of 29°F initially, and gradually decreasing to 28°F at 20 minutes and 18°F at 60 minutes (and all temperature and time variants along a curve defined by these quantities).
  • the personal ambient air temperature modification, filtration, and purification device 100 was outfitted with a polypropylene electrostatic mesh filter stack, specifically an Electrostatic Pad Filter, AW-190605-1, made by Universal Air Filter, in a 4-stack configuration (as air filter 117).
  • AW-190605-1 Electrostatic Pad Filter
  • the system was operated with thermal energy storage components 121 in the form of 2 measured cups of ice disposed in the container 102. The following test results were observed:
  • the personal ambient air temperature modification, filtration, and purification device 100 is operable in such a way that the exhaust air has at least 18% of particulates sized between 0.30 - 1.0 pm, 50% of particulates sized between 1.0 - 3.0 pm, and 90% of particulates sized between 3.0 - 10.0 pm, removed by the system relative to the base particulate content of the ambient air drawn in through the air inlet into the system 100.
  • the exhaust air has at least 18% of particulates sized between 0.30 - 1.0 pm, 50% of particulates sized between 1.0 - 3.0 pm, and 90% of particulates sized between 3.0 - 10.0 pm, removed by the system relative to the base particulate content of the ambient air drawn in through the air inlet into the system 100.
  • higher percentages of particulates removed can be attained as would be understood by those of skill in the art with the benefit of the present disclosure.
  • the terms“comprises” and“comprising” are intended to be construed as being inclusive, not exclusive.
  • the terms“exemplary”, “example”, and“illustrative”, are intended to mean“serving as an example, instance, or illustration” and should not be construed as indicating, or not indicating, a preferred or advantageous configuration relative to other configurations.
  • the terms “about”,“generally”, and“approximately” are intended to cover variations that may existing in the upper and lower limits of the ranges of subjective or objective values, such as variations in properties, parameters, sizes, and dimensions.
  • the terms“about”,“generally”, and“approximately” mean at, or plus 10 percent or less, or minus 10 percent or less. In one non-limiting example, the terms“about”,“generally”, and “approximately” mean sufficiently close to be deemed by one of skill in the art in the relevant field to be included.
  • the term“substantially” refers to the complete or nearly complete extend or degree of an action, characteristic, property, state, structure, item, or result, as would be appreciated by one of skill in the art. For example, an object that is “substantially” circular would mean that the object is either completely a circle to mathematically determinable limits, or nearly a circle as would be recognized or understood by one of skill in the art. The exact allowable degree of deviation from absolute

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Abstract

La présente invention concerne un système personnel de filtration, de purification et de modification de température de l'air ambiant conçu pour être tenu à la main. Le système personnel de filtration, de purification et de modification de température de l'air ambiant de la présente invention est constitué d'un récipient doté d'entrées d'air qui permettent à un mécanisme de déplacement d'air motorisé interne de tirer de l'air à travers un canal d'air en couplage fluidique avec les entrées d'air, le tout au travers d'un filtre disposé dans le canal d'air, de lames de diffusion thermique, d'une ou plusieurs sources de vapeur de fluide combinées, d'un composant de stockage d'énergie thermique qui purifie l'air par capture de vapeur, d'un concentrateur d'énergie thermique disposé dans le volume intérieur du récipient et qui modifie la température de l'air et d'un mécanisme de déplacement d'air motorisé, l'air étant ensuite délivré dans un environnement sous la forme d'air purifié, filtré et à température modifiée.
PCT/US2019/063718 2018-12-04 2019-11-27 Dispositif de modification de température d'air ambiant personnel, dispositif de filtration et de purification à diffusion thermique à pales multiples WO2020117598A1 (fr)

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Cited By (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20230110874A1 (en) * 2021-10-07 2023-04-13 Jocelyn Bruno O2 Tree for Addressing Climate Change

Citations (5)

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US5030389A (en) * 1990-04-04 1991-07-09 Cecil Wesley E Portable cooler apparatus
US5062281A (en) * 1991-01-07 1991-11-05 Samuel C. Oliphant Air conditioning device
US5953933A (en) * 1996-05-17 1999-09-21 Cheng; Chuan-Hsin Water container and cooling fan assembly
US7127910B2 (en) * 2004-12-10 2006-10-31 Misterchill, Llc Air cooling device
US20180073769A1 (en) * 2016-09-09 2018-03-15 Airwirl, LLC Personal ambient air temperature modification device

Patent Citations (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US5030389A (en) * 1990-04-04 1991-07-09 Cecil Wesley E Portable cooler apparatus
US5062281A (en) * 1991-01-07 1991-11-05 Samuel C. Oliphant Air conditioning device
US5953933A (en) * 1996-05-17 1999-09-21 Cheng; Chuan-Hsin Water container and cooling fan assembly
US7127910B2 (en) * 2004-12-10 2006-10-31 Misterchill, Llc Air cooling device
US20180073769A1 (en) * 2016-09-09 2018-03-15 Airwirl, LLC Personal ambient air temperature modification device

Cited By (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20230110874A1 (en) * 2021-10-07 2023-04-13 Jocelyn Bruno O2 Tree for Addressing Climate Change

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