Portable cooling and heating device

Abstract

The invention relates to a portable cooling and heating device (10) for controlling the temperature of a body part, comprising a strap (12) consisting of at least two substantially at least partially superimposed layers (12a, 12b) and at least one thermoelectric module (14a-n) comprising at least one thermoelectric element (141), preferably a Peltier element. In addition, the device (10) comprises at least one fan (16a-n), preferably a radial fan. The strap (12) comprises a first layer (12a), facing the body part, and a second layer (12b), facing away from the body part. The at least one thermoelectric module (14a-n) and / or the fan (16a-n) are fastened to at least the first layer (12a) and / or the second layer (12b), wherein in either case at least one outlet opening (18a-n) is arranged at a distance, preferably in a direction transverse to the circumferential direction of the strap, from an inlet opening of the fan (16a-n) on the strap, so that the exhaust air from the outlet opening can flow out of the strap (12) at a sufficient distance from the inlet opening of the fan.

Description

[0001] A portable cooling and heating device

[0002] Technical area

[0003] The present invention relates to a portable cooling and heating device for tempering a body part, as well as a method for producing a portable cooling and heating device.

[0004] State of the art

[0005] The use of cold and heat therapies to treat various illnesses and injuries is a well-known procedure in medical practice. In such therapies, it is crucial that the cold or heat source is applied closely to the body part being treated to ensure optimal effectiveness. A promising technology used for such therapies is thermoelectric modules with Peltier elements.

[0006] Peltier elements are electronic components capable of transferring heat from one side to the other, depending on the direction of the electric current flowing through them. They can function as both a cold and a heat source, making them suitable for both cold and heat therapies. Although the use of Peltier elements for therapeutic purposes is well known, effective application presents a challenge. To achieve maximum therapeutic effect, the Peltier elements must be placed tightly against the body area being treated. This ensures that the cold or heat is efficiently transferred to the tissue, achieving the desired therapeutic effects.

[0007] Given this challenge, there is a need for innovative solutions that allow Peltier elements to be positioned so they fit snugly against the body part being treated. This ensures effective and comfortable application of cold and heat therapies, leading to improved treatment and faster patient recovery.

[0008] Patent WO2022133209A1 describes a temperature-controllable winding assembly. A first temperature control module comprises a housing, a controllable temperature element, a spreading element, and at least one first finger spreader pivotally mounted on the spreading element. A lower surface of the spreading element is positioned to contact the user's body part.

[0009] However, there is always a need to make therapy belts more flexible and comfortable, while maintaining direct contact between the body part being treated and the thermoelectric module. Conventional therapy belts are often bulky and inflexible, which can lead to restricted movement and discomfort for the user.

[0010] The challenge is to develop a device that combines the benefits of cold and heat therapy in a comfortable and flexible way. This requires that the heat energy be transferred directly to the body part, without disrupting contact with additional elements such as splay fingers. Creating a more flexible and comfortable therapy belt that allows direct transfer of heat energy to the body part being treated ensures an effective and comfortable treatment. This can help relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and promote recovery, while providing the user with improved comfort and greater freedom of movement.

[0011] Description of the invention

[0012] Based on the known prior art, it is an object of the present invention to provide an improved solution for a portable cooling and heating device which increases the flexibility of the device for adaptation to a body part to be treated and at the same time can be designed to be compact and flat.

[0013] This object is achieved by a cooling and heating device having the features of claim 1 and a method for producing a cooling and heating device according to claim 28. Advantageous further developments emerge from the subclaims, the present description and the figures.

[0014] Accordingly, a portable cooling and heating device for controlling the temperature of a body part is proposed, which device comprises a belt consisting of at least two essentially at least partially superimposed layers, at least one thermoelectric module having at least one thermoelectric element, preferably a Peltier element, and at least one fan. The belt has a first layer facing the body part and a second layer facing away from the body part. The at least one thermoelectric module and / or the fan are attached at least to the first layer and / or second layer. In this case, at least one outlet opening is arranged on the belt at a distance, preferably along a direction transverse to the direction of rotation of the belt, from an inlet opening of the fan, such that the exhaust air from the outlet opening can flow out of the belt at a distance transverse to the direction of rotation from the inlet opening of the fan.

[0015] It was recognized that placing the outlet opening perpendicular to the direction of rotation ensures sufficient distance from the inlet opening. The distance between the inlet opening and the outlet opening is essentially defined by the length of the thermoelectric module perpendicular to the direction of rotation. In contrast to positioning the outlet opening next to the fan and / or thermoelectric module along the direction of rotation, this improves the flexibility of the belt. This also has the advantage that the fan does not re-suck in the heated air. In other words, the spatially separated arrangement of the fan and the outlet opening ensures that the inlet opening of the fan and the outlet opening are sufficiently distanced from one another. This guarantees that the heated air flow exiting the outlet openings is not in fluid communication with the inlet opening of the fan.This leads to improved cooling of the thermoelectric element, preferably Peltier element, and thus the efficiency of the cooling and heating device can be further improved.

[0016] Preferably, the first layer comprises a temperature transfer region, in which the thermal energy of the at least one thermoelectric module can be transferred to a body part to be treated, and a fastening region. The fastening region is configured to attach the belt to a body part. After being wrapped around the body part, the belt is fastened to ensure a secure fit. It can have a variable length and can have an adjustable fastening technique such as hook-and-loop fasteners, buckles, or hook and / or eye fasteners to adjust the tightness and fit of the belt.

[0017] A belt can also be referred to as a wrapping arrangement or band and is understood to be a flexible and elongated device that is used to wrap, fixate or enclose the device tightly around a part of the body.

[0018] In the application described here, the belt can also be referred to as a therapy belt. Accordingly, cold and heat therapy devices such as

[0019] Peltier elements are attached to the therapy belt to bring the devices into contact with the area of ​​the body to be treated.

[0020] Preferably, the fan is oriented to generate an airflow between the first layer and the second layer. This allows for a targeted airflow to be achieved for cooling the thermoelectric module.

[0021] The longitudinal direction or circumferential direction refers to the direction defined by the winding of the belt around a part of the body.

[0022] In one example, the at least one thermoelectric module and the at least one fan are attached to the first layer via the front side facing the body part and / or to the second layer via the back side facing away from the body part.

[0023] The thermoelectric module has the thermoelectric element, preferably a Peltier element, in its front area. The front area is the area facing a body part when attached. In one example, the top side of the thermoelectric element, preferably a Peltier element, is in direct contact with the body part. The top side is the side that is in contact with the body part and transfers the thermal energy to the body part to be treated. For example, the top side of the Peltier element is made of aluminum oxide ceramic.

[0024] In another example, a layer of material is applied to the top of the thermoelectric element. This layer of material acts as a temperature distribution layer and can consist of an aluminum plate, for example.

[0025] A Peltier element, also known as a Peltier cooler or Peltier module, is a thermoelectric device that operates according to the Peltier effect. It consists of semiconductor materials, usually bismuth telluride, sandwiched together in a structure. The semiconductor layers are connected by electrical contacts.

[0026] The Peltier effect occurs when a current flows through the Peltier element. This creates a temperature difference on the two sides of the element. Heat is absorbed on one side, while heat is released on the other. This allows for the creation of a temperature differential.

[0027] Thermoelectric elements can be cooled using heat sinks, preferably heat sinks. A fan is used to increase airflow over a heat sink and improve cooling performance. The fan dissipates heat by blowing the surrounding air over the heat sink, thus assisting in cooling the thermoelectric element.

[0028] To improve heat transfer between the Peltier element and the heat sink, a thermal paste can be used. The thermal paste fills any gaps and air bubbles between the thermoelectric module and the heat sink, thus increasing the contact area and heat transfer efficiency.

[0029] In addition to Peltier elements, alternative calorific materials such as magnetocaloric and electrocaloric materials can also be used. These materials utilize calorific effects to generate or dissipate heat energy.

[0030] The magnetocaloric principle is based on the change in the magnetic properties of a material under the influence of an external magnetic field. By applying or removing a magnetic field, the material can absorb or release heat. This effect allows the temperature to be controlled near the body part being treated without affecting direct contact.

[0031] The electrocaloric principle, on the other hand, uses changes in the electric field strength to generate temperature changes in a material. By applying or removing an electrical voltage, heat energy is generated or dissipated.

[0032] The use of calorific materials as an alternative to Peltier elements enables versatile adaptation and design of therapy devices. They offer the possibility of developing more compact and efficient devices in which heat energy can be transferred directly and specifically to the body part being treated. This can improve comfort and optimize therapeutic effects.

[0033] Preferably, the cooling and heating device comprises a control device and a battery device for operating the thermoelectric module and the fan. The control device can, for example, be configured to control the treatment in terms of duration, temperature ranges, and cycles.

[0034] In a first example, the thermoelectric module and / or the fan can be attached only to the first or second layer. This design ensures maximum flexibility.

[0035] In another example, the thermoelectric module and / or the fan can be attached to the first layer and the second layer. This ensures good alignment of the thermoelectric module and the fan. This optimizes the cooling of the thermoelectric module. This has the advantage that the thermoelectric modules are firmly attached to the belt, which in turn improves the wearing comfort (no chafing) of the belt.

[0036] In an alternative embodiment, the thermoelectric module and / or the fan can be attached only to the second layer. This also ensures high flexibility. Furthermore, the thermoelectric module is pressed against the body part by the second layer, since the second layer is on the outside and stretches the thermoelectric module to the body part via a back side of the thermoelectric module. The back side is understood to be the side of the device facing away from a body part when the device is attached to or wrapped around a body part.

[0037] In one example, the thermoelectric module comprises a thermoelectric element, preferably a Peltier element, a heat sink, preferably a heat sink, and a frame.

[0038] According to one embodiment, the fan is oriented to generate an air flow between the first and second layers.

[0039] The space between the first and second layers is essentially defined by the height of the thermoelectric module and the fan.

[0040] In addition, arranging the inlet opening of the fan between the first and second layers or on the end faces (i.e. the side surfaces of the belt formed between the first layer and the second layer by connecting the first and second layers) of the device has the advantage that the air can be sucked in better when a user wears the device under clothing.

[0041] According to one embodiment, an outlet opening is arranged downstream of the air flow, wherein the outlet opening is arranged in the second layer or between the first and second layers.

[0042] The outlet opening is located downstream of the thermoelectric module.

[0043] Downward airflow refers to the airflow direction from the fan to the outlet, with the thermoelectric module essentially being located between the fan and the outlet opening.

[0044] Arranging the outlet opening between the first and second layers has the advantage that the heat of the thermoelectric module can be better dissipated when the user wears the device under clothing.

[0045] According to a further embodiment, an outlet opening is arranged below and / or above each thermoelectric module in a direction transverse to the direction of rotation of the belt.

[0046] This has the advantage of improving the airflow for cooling the thermoelectric module. This ensures that two adjacent thermoelectric modules are not compromised in their cooling by the heated exhaust air from the other module.

[0047] According to a further embodiment, the at least one thermoelectric module is arranged in a housing, wherein the housing is preferably multi-part and has at least one upper cover device arranged in the direction of the second layer and a lower cover device arranged in the direction of the first layer and a middle housing body arranged between the upper cover device and the lower cover device.

[0048] This ensures efficient fastening of the thermoelectric module via the strap. Furthermore, the elements of the thermoelectric module and preferably the fan can be arranged within the same housing. In one example, the central housing body has side outlets on two opposite sides or on each side. This directs the airflow from the fan inlet to the outlet opening across the housing, efficiently cooling the thermoelectric module.

[0049] According to a further embodiment, the lower cover device comprises a mounting frame and a first temperature distribution layer. This provides a screwless attachment of the thermoelectric module to the first layer. The first temperature distribution layer is made of aluminum, for example.

[0050] According to a preferred embodiment, the second layer of the belt is arranged between the upper cover device and the middle housing body and is connected to the housing in a material and / or form-fitting manner.

[0051] The attachment of the housing to the second layer via the upper cover device results in the tensile force acting on the second layer at a sufficient distance from the body part of a patient and increases the contact force of the thermoelectric modules to the body part of the patient.

[0052] According to a further embodiment, the first layer is arranged between the fastening frame and the first temperature distribution layer and the fastening frame, the first temperature distribution layer and the first layer are connected to one another in a material and / or form-fitting manner.

[0053] According to a further embodiment, the first layer has a recess in the region of the thermoelectric module, so that the at least one thermoelectric module is in direct thermal connection with the body part or is in direct thermal connection with the first temperature distribution layer.

[0054] This ensures that the heat generated by the thermoelectric module does not have to diffuse through the first layer. The recess is essentially defined by the inner surface of the mounting frame. In other words, the mounting frame and the temperature distribution layer overlap the first layer at the edge sections in the area of ​​the recess. This ensures that the first layer is clamped between the mounting frame and the first temperature distribution layer.

[0055] By designing the therapy belt in a way that allows for direct transfer of heat energy to the specific body part, efficient and targeted transfer of cold or heat to the patient's body part can be ensured. This has the additional advantage of allowing the device to be designed more flatly, further improving wearing comfort.

[0056] According to one embodiment, the first temperature distribution layer has at least two form-locking elements which can be received in at least two recesses of the fastening frame which correspond in position and size.

[0057] In one example, the form-fitting elements can be designed as mushroom-shaped elements or pins with a rough surface. This allows the first temperature distribution layer to be easily plugged together with the frame and connected in a material-locking and / or form-locking manner. Preferably, the first layer has holes of corresponding position and size through which the form-fitting elements can be inserted into the first layer.

[0058] According to one embodiment, the housing has a receiving device and a vibration device arranged in the receiving device.

[0059] It has been recognized that vibration applied to a specific body part, combined with the cooling and heating input of the thermoelectric module, improves the vibration effect. Preferably, the vibration device is attached to the central housing body. This ensures that the vibration device is mounted close to the body part, thus improving the vibration effect.

[0060] In a preferred example, several vibration motors are flexibly coupled to the belt via the receiving device. The first and second layers are preferably made of a flexible material and act like springs. This allows the forces of the individual vibration motors to overlap, i.e., the vibration forces are transmitted to at least one adjacent thermoelectric module.

[0061] In another example, vibration motors are configured to operate at different frequencies. The superposition of the different vibration frequencies creates the physical phenomenon of beating. This creates the impression that the location of the vibration is "wandering" on the skin. In one example, this can be caused by varying spring properties (e.g., due to different thicknesses) of the belt layers or by exploiting the manufacturing tolerances of the vibration motors. This allows different vibration intensities to be set at different points on the belt without additional control. Alternatively, the vibration motors can be specifically controlled differently (e.g., speed, gear ratio).

[0062] Beat is the effect that the resultant of the additive superposition of two oscillations that differ only slightly in frequency has a periodically increasing and decreasing amplitude.

[0063] According to one embodiment, the fan is an axial fan and is arranged on the upper side of the thermoelectric module facing the second layer.

[0064] This is advantageous because it improves the cooling of the thermoelectric module.

[0065] Furthermore, the thermoelectric module and the axial fan are preferably arranged in one housing.

[0066] According to one embodiment, the upper cover device is designed to provide an air inlet for the axial fan. Thus, according to one embodiment, the upper cover device has a dual function, namely to secure the housing to the belt and simultaneously provide an air inlet for the housing arranged in the housing.

[0067] According to one embodiment, the fan is a radial fan, wherein the thermoelectric module and the radial fan are arranged separately on the belt. Preferably, the thermoelectric module and the radial fan are aligned with each other such that they are arranged along a straight line transverse to the longitudinal or circumferential direction of the belt. It has been recognized that the flexibility of the belt can be increased by arranging the thermoelectric module and the fan separately on the belt.

[0068] Furthermore, the device can be designed more flatly, since the fan is not located on the thermoelectric module. This significantly increases comfort for the user. For example, it allows the belt to be worn under clothing in everyday life.

[0069] A radial fan is a type of fan that moves air or gas radially from the center of the fan to the outside. Unlike axial fans, where the air flows out parallel to the fan's rotational axis, radial fans move the air perpendicular to the rotational axis. Radial fans are also known as "centrifugal fans" or "centrifugal fans."

[0070] A radial fan typically consists of a housing containing an impeller or rotor. The impeller, in one example, consists of curved blades arranged radially. As the impeller rotates, it generates a centrifugal force that pushes the air outward from the center of the fan. The air then flows through the housing and is expelled to the side or front. The use of radial fans allows for a particularly flat design of the device, unlike axial fans.

[0071] In another exemplary embodiment, the at least one fan, the at least one thermoelectric module, and the at least one outlet opening are arranged along a straight line. This allows the flexibility of the belt to be further improved.

[0072] According to one embodiment, a width of the fan with respect to the circumferential direction of the belt is dimensioned by -5% to +50%, preferably -5% to +25%, particularly preferably -5% to +5% compared to the width of the thermoelectric module.

[0073] This ensures that the flexibility of the belt is not limited by the fan. The width of the fan is preferably approximately the same, so that the flexibility of the belt when attached or wrapped around a body part is determined by the width of the thermoelectric module and its flexibility.

[0074] The width of the fan and the thermoelectric module is the length that runs along the longitudinal or circumferential direction of the belt.

[0075] According to a particularly preferred embodiment, the centers of the thermoelectric module and the fan are aligned with each other essentially on a straight line, which is preferably arranged transversely to the circumferential direction. This further improves the flexibility of the belt, as the fan and the thermoelectric module are optimally aligned with each other. This also has the advantage that the thermoelectric module is optimally aligned with the fan, thus maximizing the cooling directed to the thermoelectric element.

[0076] According to one embodiment, the first layer and / or the second layer of the belt have recesses for arranging the thermoelectric module and / or the fan on the belt. This allows the top side of the thermoelectric module to be attached directly to the body part. Furthermore, the flexibility of the belt can be adjusted.

[0077] In one example, the thermoelectric module is attached to the first layer and / or second layer of the belt in a material-to-material manner, preferably glued, and / or form-fitting manner, preferably by a snap fastener, and / or the fan is glued to the first layer and / or second layer of the belt and / or attached via a snap fastener.

[0078] Preferably, the first layer has a lower kink resistance than the second layer. This has the advantage that the thermoelectric elements, preferably Peltier elements, can better conform to the body part to be treated.

[0079] Flexibility can also be understood as low buckling stiffness.

[0080] In one example, the first layer consists of a waterproof coated material, preferably synthetic leather or a fabric with a polyurethane (PU) foam coating. This has the advantage of improving wearing comfort, as fluids such as bodily fluids, such as the user's perspiration, are not absorbed by the strap.

[0081] According to one embodiment, a series of thermoelectric modules and fans with respective outlet openings are arranged along the circumferential direction of the belt in a temperature transfer area at a distance of at least 0.1 cm to at most 10 cm, preferably 1 cm - 3 cm.

[0082] It has been found that arranging several small thermoelectric modules along the circumference of the belt increases the degree of flexibility of the belt, particularly in the temperature transfer area. A width of 20-50 mm, preferably 30-40 mm, for the top of the thermoelectric element, particularly a Peltier element, is suggested. This has been shown to provide an optimal compromise between effectively transferring thermal energy to the body site while maintaining the belt's flexibility.

[0083] According to a further embodiment, at least one additional fan is arranged at each end of the temperature transfer region along the circumferential direction. This allows for increased cooling of the thermoelectric modules, while simultaneously allowing the device to be designed flatter than with a fan arranged vertically on the thermoelectric module.

[0084] According to a preferred embodiment, the device has a tensioning device so that the belt can be pressed against the body part in the temperature transfer area.

[0085] This allows the contact of the thermoelectric element, preferably the Peltier element, to the body part to be treated to be improved and thus the heat energy of the thermoelectric element to be transferred to the body part to be treated in a more efficient manner.

[0086] In one example, the tensioning device is attached to the outside. The outside is the side of the belt that faces away from the body part to be treated. According to another embodiment, the tensioning device has spacer elements to adjust the contact pressure along the belt.

[0087] In one example, the spacer elements can be arranged between the tensioning strap and the back of the thermoelectric module. In another example, the spacer elements can be arranged so that they can be moved along the tensioning device in order to adjust the contact pressure of the thermoelectric elements on the body part. In particular, spacer elements can be positioned between the back of the thermoelectric element and the tensioning device in such a way that the thermoelectric elements positioned in the center are pressed against the body part with the same contact pressure as the outer thermoelectric elements. This is the case, for example, if the strap or the temperature transfer area is attached to a curved body part.

[0088] The spacer elements can be designed, for example, as air cushions, foam or rubber pads.

[0089] In another example, the spacer elements can also be configured by varying the height of the heat sinks, preferably the heat sinks of the thermoelectric modules, along the belt's circumferential direction. The height of the heat sinks can, for example, be configured such that the height of the heat sinks of the thermoelectric modules in the center of the temperature transfer area is longer than the heat sinks at the edges of the temperature transfer area. This ensures that the thermoelectric elements are evenly applied to the body area to be treated.

[0090] According to a further embodiment, the cooling and heating device comprises a second temperature distribution layer, which can be attached to a side of the first layer of the belt facing the body part. This enables a broad and even distribution of the thermal energy of the thermoelectric module to the second temperature distribution layer and thus to the body part to be treated. The second temperature distribution layer can also be referred to as a flexible heat transfer layer and can be made of a thermally conductive polymer, e.g., thermally conductive silicone, or thermally conductive TPU.

[0091] According to a further embodiment, the thermoelectric element comprises at least two Peltier elements. This allows the heat energy generated by the thermoelectric module to be increased and allows for greater temperature differences between the cold and heat cycles, thus achieving greater efficiency.

[0092] According to a further embodiment, the thermoelectric module further comprises a heat sink.

[0093] This protects the thermoelectric module from impacts and compensates for mechanical stresses between the components of the thermoelectric module. This can increase the durability of the device.

[0094] According to a further embodiment, the device further comprises a plate that is applied to the second layer from the outside and is connected to the heat sink of the thermoelectric module via a screw connection. This can increase the hold of the thermoelectric modules on the belt. According to a further embodiment, the device comprises flexible airflow guide rails that form an airflow channel from the fan to the thermoelectric module. This can improve the cooling of the thermoelectric module. The airflow guide rails can be made of an air-impermeable, flexible material, for example, rubber.

[0095] According to a further aspect of the invention, a method for producing a portable cooling and heating device is proposed, comprising the steps of:

[0096] - Providing a first layer and / or a second layer of a belt and at least one thermoelectric module for attachment to the belt and a housing for each thermoelectric module, the housing having a lower cover device, an upper cover device and a middle housing body, and a fan;

[0097] - Form-fitting and / or material-locking connection of the first temperature distribution layer and the fastening frame for each thermoelectric module, wherein the first layer is arranged between the fastening frame and the first temperature distribution layer and is form-fitting and / or material-lockingly connected to the lower cover device;

[0098] - Arranging at least one thermoelectric module on the respective lower cover device;

[0099] - Connecting one middle housing body to the respective lower cover device for each thermoelectric module;

[0100] - Arranging a second layer on the respective middle housing body for each thermoelectric module;

[0101] - Attaching a fan for each thermoelectric module to the belt, wherein the fan is arranged in the housing or is attached directly to the first and / or second layer of the belt;

[0102] - connecting the respective upper cover device to the respective middle housing body for each thermoelectric module, so that the second layer is positively connected between the respective middle housing body and the respective upper cover device;

[0103] - connecting an outlet opening to the second layer or between the first layer and the second layer;

[0104] - Electrically connecting the thermoelectric module and the fan to a control device;

[0105] - Connect the first layer and the second layer to form a belt.

[0106] The first and second layers are each to be understood as continuous layers, meaning they extend from one end of the belt to the other. In one example, the first and second layers are connected by a zipper.

[0107] The sequence of steps in the process may vary, meaning that individual steps may be performed before or after the described sequence. In one example, the provision of an outlet opening may occur at the beginning of the manufacturing process, i.e., when the first and second layers are provided.

[0108] Preferably, a recess is cut out in each of the first and second layers for the attachment of the upper and lower cover devices as well as the outlet openings and the fans.

[0109] According to one embodiment, at least one fan is designed as a radial fan and is fastened to the belt separately from the at least one thermoelectric module, wherein the centers of the thermoelectric module and the fan are aligned with each other substantially on a straight line transverse to the direction of rotation.

[0110] According to another embodiment, at least one fan is designed as an axial fan and is arranged with the respective thermoelectric module in the housing.

[0111] Particularly preferably, the fastening frame is connected to the first temperature distribution layer in a material-locking manner or in a form-fitting manner to the first temperature distribution layer by an injection-molding process.

[0112] Short description of the characters

[0113] Preferred further embodiments of the invention are explained in more detail in the following description of the figures. In the figures:

[0114] Figure 1 AC shows a schematic view of the front and back and a

[0115] Side view of the portable cooling and heating device according to an embodiment;

[0116] Figures 2A-B are schematic sectional views of the portable cooling and heating device according to an embodiment;

[0117] Figure 3 is a schematic rear view of the portable cooling and heating device with laterally arranged fans according to another embodiment;

[0118] Figure 4 is a schematic sectional view of the portable cooling and heating device with a clamping device according to an embodiment;

[0119] Figure 5 is a schematic sectional view of the portable cooling and heating device with a second temperature distribution layer according to one embodiment;

[0120] Figure 6 is a schematic perspective view of the thermoelectric module according to an embodiment;

[0121] Figure 7 is a schematic sectional view of the thermoelectric module with a plate for attaching the thermoelectric module to the second layer according to an embodiment; and

[0122] Figures 8A-C show a schematic perspective front and rear view and a schematic sectional view of the portable cooling and heating device according to another embodiment with at least one axial fan; Figures 9A-B show a schematic front and rear view and a side view of the portable cooling and heating device according to one embodiment;

[0123] Figure 10 is a schematic sectional view of the portable cooling and heating device according to another embodiment;

[0124] Figure 11 is a schematic representation of the portable cooling and heating device on a patient's body part;

[0125] Figures 12A-B are a perspective view of a housing for supporting a thermoelectric module and a sectional view according to one embodiment;

[0126] Figures 13A-B are a perspective view of a lower cover device for a housing and a sectional view according to one embodiment; and

[0127] Figure 14 shows a method for manufacturing a portable cooling and heating device according to an embodiment.

[0128] Detailed description of preferred embodiments

[0129] Preferred embodiments are described below with reference to the figures. Identical, similar, or equivalent elements in the different figures are provided with identical reference numerals, and a repeated description of these elements is partially omitted to avoid redundancies.

[0130] Figure 1A shows a front side and Figure 1B a back side of a portable cooling and heating device 10 for controlling the temperature of a body part, comprising a belt 12 consisting of at least two essentially at least partially superimposed layers 12a, 12b (see Figure 1C) and at least one thermoelectric module 14a-n comprising at least one thermoelectric element 141, preferably a Peltier element. Furthermore, the device has at least one radial fan 16a-n. The belt 12 has a first layer 12a, which faces the body part, and a second layer 12b, which faces away from the body part. The at least one thermoelectric module 14a-n and / or the fan 16a-n are attached at least to the first layer 12a and / or second layer 12b.In this case, at least one outlet opening 18a-n is arranged at a distance, preferably along a direction transverse to the direction of rotation of the belt, from an inlet opening of the fan (16a-n) on the belt, so that the exhaust air from the outlet opening can flow out of the belt 12 at a sufficient distance from the inlet opening of the fan. As further shown by way of example in Figures 1A-B, the thermoelectric module 14a-n and the fan 16a-n are preferably arranged separately from one another on the belt 12.

[0131] Furthermore, the device has a control device 28 to control the device or to control the device 10 with respect to various parameters such as temperature ranges, number and duration of cold and heat cycles and duration of the therapy.

[0132] As shown in Figure 1A, the belt 12 has a fastening area 26 (e.g., Velcro fastener) to fix it after it has been tied or wrapped around a body part (not shown).

[0133] In the example shown here, eight thermoelectric modules 14a-n are arranged in two parallel rows in the circumferential direction UR, each containing four thermoelectric modules 14a-n. The temperature transfer area A is defined by the arrangement of the thermoelectric modules 14a-n.

[0134] Furthermore, it is shown here by way of example that the at least one thermoelectric module 14a-n and the at least one fan 16a-n are located on a straight line G transverse to the circumferential direction UR.

[0135] This arrangement allows maximum flexibility of the belt 12 to be achieved, as this is determined by the width B of the thermoelectric module 14a-n. In other words, the width B of the radial fan shown here as an example is smaller than or equal to the width of the thermoelectric module to ensure the flexibility of the belt 12 in the temperature transfer area A. Furthermore, it has been found that several small thermoelectric modules 14a-n distributed across the temperature transfer area A, viewed in terms of width, increase the flexibility of the belt without reducing the transfer of thermal energy to the body part.

[0136] Preferably, the width B of the fan 16a-n with respect to the circumferential direction UR of the belt 12 is dimensioned by -5% to 50%, preferably -5% to 25%, particularly preferably -5% to 5% compared to the width B of the thermoelectric module 14a-n.

[0137] According to the embodiment shown in Figure 1A and Figure 1B, the fan 16a-n is designed as a radial fan, wherein the thermoelectric module 14a-n and the radial fan 16a-n are arranged separately from one another on the belt 12.

[0138] Particularly preferably, the centers of the thermoelectric module 14a-n and the fan 16a-n are substantially aligned with each other on a straight line G.

[0139] In the example shown here, a row of thermoelectric modules 14a-n and fans 16a-n with respective outlet openings 18a-n are arranged along the circumferential direction UR of the belt 12 in a temperature transfer area A at a distance D of at least 0.1 cm to at most 10 cm, preferably 1 cm - 3 cm. Preferably, the rows of thermoelectric modules 14a-n and fans 16a-n with respective outlet openings 18a-n are aligned parallel to one another, with airflow guide rails 24 (see Figure 2B) arranged between the rows of thermoelectric modules 14a-n and fans 16a-n with respective outlet openings 18a-n and the first layer 12a and the second layer 12b. The air flow guide rails 24 are attached to the first layer 12a and the second layer 12b in such a way that they form an air flow channel transverse to the circumferential direction in the direction of the respective fan 16a-n and the respective outlet opening 18a-n between the first layer 12a and the second layer 12b.

[0140] Figure 1B shows the device from the rear, or from the side that does not face the body part, or is facing away from the body part. As shown here, outlet openings 18a-n are provided, which direct the air flow that cools the thermoelectric module to the outside. These outlet openings 18a-n are preferably also arranged on the same straight line G as the thermoelectric module 14a-n and the fan 16a-n. For example, the respective outlet opening 18a-n can be arranged in the second layer 12b, so that the exhaust air is guided to the outside via the side facing away from the body part. Alternatively, the outlet openings 18a-n can be arranged between the first layer 12a and the second layer 12b (not shown). This has the advantage that the exhaust air is not partially blocked by external means, such as clothing.This ensures that the device 10 can also be worn under clothing in everyday life.

[0141] Alternatively, the at least one fan 16a-n can also be configured as an axial fan between the first layer 12a and the second layer 12b, so that the inlet of the axial fan is located between the first layer 12a and the second layer 12b. This also has the advantage that the supply air for the fan 16a-n is not partially blocked by external means, such as clothing.

[0142] Figure 1C shows the device in a side view. The first layer 12a is partially arranged over the second layer 12b. The first layer 12a and / or the second layer 12b are connected, for example, sewn together, to form an end face. In one example, the inlet openings and the outlet openings can be arranged on the end face (not shown). As shown here, the inlet openings of the fan 16a-n can be arranged on the first and second layers. This ensures maximum airflow generation of the fan 16a-n.

[0143] Figure 2A shows a sectional view AA transverse to the circumferential direction UR. As shown by way of example, the thermoelectric module 14 has two Peltier elements 141a, 141b. The thermoelectric modules are connected to the control device 28 (not shown) via cables. The thermoelectric modules 14a-n are connected to the second layer 12b via the rear side. Preferably, the thermoelectric modules 14a-n are connected via a plate 30 (see also Figure 7). The screws can, for example, be screwed directly into the heat sink 142 using self-tapping screws. The top side of the thermoelectric element is in direct contact with the body and is designed to be slightly offset or flush with the first layer 12a.

[0144] As further shown here by way of example, an outlet opening 18 is provided on the second layer 12b. In one example, the back of the device 10 may have a cover layer 13, wherein an opening is provided with the outlet opening 18 of the second layer 12b.

[0145] As shown in Figure 2, fan 16a-n, preferably a radial fan, is oriented to generate an air flow between the first 12a and second layer 12b.

[0146] As shown by way of example in Figure 2B, the first layer 12a and / or the second layer 12b of the belt 12 have recesses for arranging the thermoelectric module 14a-n and / or the fan 16a-n on the belt (12). This allows, in particular, the upper side of the thermoelectric element 141 to come into direct contact with the body part to be treated, so that the thermal energy of the thermoelectric element 141, preferably the Peltier element, can be transferred directly to the body part and does not have to first diffuse through the fabric layer of the first layer 12a. As shown in Figure 3, the cooling of the thermoelectric element 141 can be further increased by arranging at least one additional fan 16z at each end of the temperature transfer region A along the circumferential direction UR.

[0147] Figure 4 further shows, by way of example, a tensioning device 20 such that the belt 12 can be pressed against the body part at least in the temperature transfer area A. As shown here by way of example, the tensioning device 20 has spacer elements 21 to adjust the contact pressure along the temperature transfer area A at a body part K. Furthermore, it is shown here, for example, that the flexible airflow guide rails 24 are designed to be flexible enough to adapt to the contour of the body part to be treated. This allows the cooling of the device to be improved without sacrificing flexibility for the belt.

[0148] In another example, see Figure 5, the device 10 can have a second temperature distribution layer 22, which can be attached to a side of the first layer 12a of the belt 12 facing the body part. This enables a broad and even distribution of the thermal energy of the thermoelectric module to the temperature distribution layer and thus to the body part to be treated. The temperature distribution layer 22 can also be referred to as a flexible heat transfer layer and can be made of a thermally conductive polymer, e.g., thermally conductive silicone or thermally conductive TPU.

[0149] Figure 6 shows a perspective view of the thermoelectric module 14 comprising a thermoelectric element 141, a heat sink 142, and a frame 143. The thermoelectric element 141 can comprise at least two Peltier elements 141a, 141b, as shown here by way of example. Furthermore, the thermoelectric module 14 can further comprise a heat sink 142, which is fixed to the thermoelectric element 141 by a frame 143.

[0150] In a further example, see Figure 7, the device comprises a plate 30 which is applied to the second layer 12b from the outside and is connected to the heat sink 142 of the thermoelectric module via a screw connection, preferably self-tapping screws.

[0151] In an alternative embodiment (see Figures 8A-C), the thermoelectric module 14a-n and an axial fan are connected to each other and attached to the belt 12 via the back of the axial fan. In other words, the axial fan and the thermoelectric module are formed as a single unit and attached to the belt 12 like a bell. As a result, the thermoelectric modules hang freely and can be flexibly pivoted via a fastening on the belt. The belt is arranged on the back of the axial fan and thus efficiently presses the thermoelectric modules, in the wound state, against the body part.

[0152] Figure 9A shows a front side and Figure 9B shows a back side of a portable cooling and heating device 10 for controlling the temperature of a body part according to a further embodiment, comprising a belt 12 consisting of at least two substantially at least partially superimposed layers 12a, 12b. The at least one thermoelectric module 14a has at least one thermoelectric element 141, preferably a Peltier element. The belt 12 has at least one fan 16a-n. The belt 12 has a first layer 12a, which faces the body part, and a second layer 12b, which faces away from the body part (see Figure 10). The at least one thermoelectric module 14a-n and / or the fan 16a-n are attached at least to the first layer 12a and / or second layer 12b.

[0153] The front side corresponds to the side where the first layer 12a is arranged. The back side corresponds to the side where the second layer 12b is arranged (see Figure 1C).

[0154] At least one outlet opening 18a-n is arranged on the belt 12, separate from the thermoelectric module 14a-n and the fan 16a-n, so that the exhaust air can flow out of the belt from the outlet opening at a distance from the fan inlet opening. As shown by way of example in Figure 10, the respective thermoelectric module 14a, 14b is arranged with a respective axial fan 16a, 16b in a respective housing 32.

[0155] Figure 10 shows a cross-sectional view of the portable cooling and heating device according to one embodiment. As shown by way of example, a plurality of axial fans 16a-n are oriented to generate an airflow between the first layer 12a and the second layer 12b.

[0156] Particularly preferably, one outlet opening 18a, 18b is arranged downstream of the airflow, with the outlet opening 18a, 18b being arranged in the second layer 12b. In an example not shown, a further outlet opening can also be arranged between at least two thermoelectric modules 14a, 14b. This improves the cooling of the thermoelectric modules.

[0157] As shown here by way of example, the outlet openings 18a, 18b can be arranged below and / or above each thermoelectric module in a direction transverse to the direction of rotation of the belt 12.

[0158] In the embodiment shown here, the at least one thermoelectric module 14a-n is arranged in a housing 32a, 32b, wherein the housing 32a, 32b is preferably multi-part and has at least one upper cover device 34 arranged in the direction of the second layer 12b. Furthermore, the housing 32a, 32b has a lower cover device 38 arranged in the direction of the first layer 12a and a central housing body 36 arranged between the upper cover device 34 and the lower cover device 38.

[0159] In the example shown here, the air flow is schematically indicated by arrows and flows from the thermoelectric module to the respective outlet opening. The respective axial fan 16a-n is configured to draw in the air via the upper cover device 34 and transport it through the thermoelectric module to the respective outlet opening 18a-n.

[0160] In an example not shown here, the axial fan can be configured such that the airflow is reversed. That is, the air is drawn in through the outlet openings 18a-n, transported through the thermoelectric module, and discharged from the belt via the upper cover device. In other words, the outlet openings 18a-n function as inlet openings according to this embodiment.

[0161] The attachment of the housing to the second layer via the upper cover device results in the tensile force Fz acting on the second layer 12b at a sufficient distance D from the patient's body part and improving the contact force Fa of the thermoelectric modules against the patient's body part, as shown in Figure 11. Figures 12A and 12B show a perspective view and a sectional view of a housing for arranging at least one thermoelectric module. As shown here by way of example, the housing preferably has a receiving device 40. A vibration device 42 is arranged in the receiving device 40.

[0162] According to this embodiment, the fan 16a is designed as an axial fan and is arranged on the upper side of the thermoelectric module facing the second layer in the housing 32. The fan is preferably arranged on a heat sink 142 of the thermoelectric module 14. The axial fan 16 is pressed onto the heat sink via the upper cover device 34 and thus held in position. The heat sink 142 is preferably connected to the thermoelectric element 141 via a thermally conductive paste. The middle housing body 36 is preferably screwed to the lower cover device 38.

[0163] Preferably, the second layer 12b of the belt is arranged between the upper cover device 34 and the middle housing body 36 and is connected to the housing 32 in a material and / or form-fitting manner.

[0164] According to this embodiment, and as further shown by way of example in Figures 12A and 12B, the upper cover means is designed to provide an air inlet for the axial fan.

[0165] Furthermore, the thermoelectric element 141 is connected to the control device (not shown) via a cable connection. The middle housing body has outlets for the air duct and cable outlets for electrically connecting the thermoelectric modules.

[0166] The heat sink 142 preferably has projections 142a, 142b to increase the volume of the heat sink and to improve the cooling performance of the heat sink. The projections 142a, 142b are arranged above the lower cover device and are spaced at least 0.5 mm to 5 mm apart, preferably 1 mm apart. This ensures that essentially no heat is transferred from the lower cover device to the heat sink. Alternatively, the air space between the heat sink and the lower cover device can also be filled with an insulating material. This allows the distance to be further reduced.

[0167] Figure 13A shows a perspective view of a lower lid assembly 38 according to one embodiment. The lower lid assembly 38 has a mounting frame 39 connected to the first layer 12a.

[0168] The first layer 12a, as shown by way of example in Figure 13B, is arranged between the fastening frame 39 and the first temperature distribution layer 23 and the fastening frame 39, the first temperature distribution layer 23 and the first layer 12a are connected to one another in a material and / or form-fitting manner.

[0169] Furthermore, it is shown here by way of example that the first layer 12a has a recess 15 in the region of the side of the thermoelectric module 14a-n facing the body part, so that the at least one thermoelectric module 14a-n is at least partially in direct thermal connection with the first temperature distribution layer 23 (see Figure 12B). Preferably, and as shown by way of example, the first temperature distribution layer 23 has at least two form-fitting elements 25, preferably mushroom-shaped elements, in the direction of the fastening frame 39, which can be received in at least two recesses of the fastening frame 39 that correspond in position and size.

[0170] As shown in Figure 14 and according to a further aspect of the invention, a method 100 for manufacturing a portable cooling and heating device is proposed, comprising the steps of:

[0171] - Providing 102 a first layer and a second layer of a belt and at least one thermoelectric module for attachment to the belt and a housing for a thermoelectric module, the housing having a lower cover means, an upper cover means and a middle housing body, and a fan;

[0172] - Form-fitting and / or material-locking connection 104 of the first temperature distribution layer and the fastening frame for each thermoelectric module, wherein the first layer is arranged between the fastening frame and the first temperature distribution layer and is form-fitting and / or material-lockingly connected to the lower cover device.

[0173] - Arranging 106 at least one thermoelectric module on the respective lower cover device.

[0174] - Connecting 108 of a middle housing body to the respective lower cover device for each thermoelectric module,

[0175] - Arranging 110 a second layer on the respective middle housing body for each thermoelectric module,

[0176] - Attaching 112 a fan for each thermoelectric module to the belt, wherein the fan is arranged 112A in the housing or is attached 112B directly to the first and / or second layer of the belt.

[0177] - connecting 114 the respective upper cover device to the respective middle housing body for each thermoelectric module, so that the second layer is positively connected between the respective middle housing body and the respective upper cover device,

[0178] - connecting 116 an outlet opening to the second layer or between the first layer and the second layer;

[0179] - Electrical connection 118 of the thermoelectric module and the fan to a control device,

[0180] - Connect 120 of the first layer and the second layer to form a belt.

[0181] According to one embodiment, at least one fan is designed as a radial fan and is attached to the belt separately from the at least one thermoelectric module 112B, wherein the centers of the thermoelectric module and the fan are aligned substantially in a straight line transverse to the direction of rotation. According to another embodiment, at least one fan is designed as an axial fan and is arranged with the respective thermoelectric module in the housing 112A.

[0182] Particularly preferably, the fastening frame is connected to the first temperature distribution layer in a material-locking manner or in a form-locking manner to the first temperature distribution layer by an injection-molding process 104A.

[0183] Where applicable, all individual features presented in the embodiments may be combined and / or exchanged without departing from the scope of the invention.

[0184] List of reference symbols

[0185] 10 Cooling and heating device 12 Belt 12a First layer 12b Second layer 13 Cover layer 14a-n Thermoelectric module 15 Recess 16a-n Fan 18a-n Outlet openings 20 Clamping device 21 Spacer elements 22 Second temperature distribution layer 23 First temperature distribution layer 24 Air guide rails 25 Form-locking elements 26 Fastening area 28 Control device 30 Plate 32 Housing 34 Upper cover device 36 Middle housing body 38 Lower cover device 39 Fastening frame 40 Receiving device 42 Vibration device 141 Thermoelectric element 142 Heat sink 142a, b Projections 143 Frame AT Temperature transfer area B Width D Distance UR Circumferential direction G Straight line

Claims

Claims 1. A portable cooling and heating device (10) for tempering a body part, comprising: - a belt (12) consisting of at least two substantially at least partially superimposed layers (12a, 12b); - at least one thermoelectric module (14a-n) comprising at least one thermoelectric element (141), preferably a Peltier element, - at least one fan (16a-n), wherein the belt (12) has a first layer (12a) facing the body part and a second layer (12b) facing away from the body part; characterized in that the at least one thermoelectric module (14a-n) and / or the fan (16a-n) are attached at least to the first layer (12a) and / or second layer (12b); wherein in each case at least one outlet opening (18a-n) is arranged on the belt at a distance, preferably along a direction transverse to the direction of rotation of the belt, from an inlet opening of the fan (16a-n), such that the exhaust air from the outlet opening can flow out of the belt (12) at a sufficient distance from the inlet opening of the fan.

2. The cooling and heating device (10) according to claim 1, wherein the fan (16a-n) is oriented to generate an air flow between the first layer (12a) and the second layer (12b).

3. The cooling and heating device (10) according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein an outlet opening (18a-n) is arranged downstream of the air flow, wherein the outlet opening (18a-n) is arranged in the second layer (12b) or between the first layer (12a) and second layer (12b).

4. The cooling and heating device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein an outlet opening (18a-n) is arranged below and / or above a respective thermoelectric module in a direction transverse to the direction of rotation of the belt (12).

5. The cooling and heating device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one thermoelectric module (14a-n) is arranged in a housing (32), wherein the housing (32) is preferably multi-part and has at least one upper cover device (34) arranged in the direction of the second layer (12b) and a lower cover device (38) arranged in the direction of the first layer (12a) and a middle housing body (36) arranged between the upper cover device (34) and the lower cover device (38).

6. The cooling and heating device (10) according to claim 5, wherein the lower cover device (38) has a mounting frame (39) and a temperature distribution layer (22).

7. The cooling and heating device (10) according to one of claims 5 or 6, wherein the second layer (12b) of the belt is arranged between the upper cover device (34) and the middle housing body (36) and is connected to the housing (32) in a material and / or form-fitting manner.

8. The cooling and heating device (10) according to one of claims 6 or 7, wherein the first layer (12a) is arranged between the fastening frame (39) and the temperature distribution layer (22) and the fastening frame (39), the temperature distribution layer (22) and the first layer (12a) are connected to one another in a material and / or form-fitting manner.

9. The cooling and heating device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first layer (12a) has a recess in the region of the side of the thermoelectric module (14a-n) facing the body part, so that the at least one thermoelectric module is in direct thermal connection with the body part or is in direct thermal connection with the temperature distribution layer (22).

10. The cooling and heating device (10) according to one of claims 6 to 9, wherein the temperature distribution layer (22) has at least two form-fitting elements which can be received in at least two recesses of the fastening frame which correspond in position and size.

11. The cooling and heating device (10) according to one of claims 5 to 9, wherein the housing has a receiving device (40) and a vibration device (42) is arranged in the receiving device.

12. The cooling and heating device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the fan (16a-n) is an axial fan and is arranged on the upper side of the thermoelectric module (14a-n) facing the second layer (12b).

13. The cooling and heating device (10) according to claim 12, wherein the thermoelectric module (14a-n) and the axial fan are arranged in a housing (32).

14. The cooling and heating device (10) according to claim 12 or 13, wherein the upper cover means (34) is configured to provide an air inlet for the axial fan.

15. The cooling and heating device (10) according to one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the fan (16a-n) is a radial fan, wherein the thermoelectric module (14a-n) and the radial fan (16a-n) are arranged separately from one another on the belt (12).

16. Cooling and heating device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the width (B) of the fan (16a-n) with respect to the circumferential direction (UR) of the belt (12) is dimensioned by -5% to +50%, preferably -5% to +25%, particularly preferably -5% to +5% compared to the width (B) of the thermoelectric module (14a-n).

17. Cooling and heating device (10) according to claim 15, wherein the centers of the thermoelectric module (14a-n) and the fan (16a-n) are aligned substantially on a straight line (G) with each other. 18.. Cooling and heating device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first layer (12a) and / or the second layer (12b) of the belt (12) have recesses in order to arrange the thermoelectric module (14a-n) and / or the fan (16a-n) on the belt (12).

19. The cooling and heating device (10) according to one of the preceding claims 11 to 16, wherein a series of thermoelectric modules (14a-n) and fans (16a-n) with respective outlet openings (18a-n) are arranged along the circumferential direction (UR) of the belt (12) in a temperature transfer area (A) at a distance of at least 0.1 cm to at most 10 cm, preferably 1 cm - 3 cm.

20. The cooling and heating device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one further fan (16z) is arranged at each end of the temperature transfer region (A) along the circumferential direction (UR).

21. The cooling and heating device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising a tensioning device (20) such that the belt (12) can be pressed against the body part at least in the temperature transfer region (A).

22. The cooling and heating device (10) according to claim 21, wherein the tensioning device (20) has spacer elements (21) to adjust the contact pressure along the belt (12).

23. The cooling and heating device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising a temperature distribution layer (22) which can be fastened to a side of the first layer (12a) of the belt (12) facing the body part.

24. The cooling and heating device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the thermoelectric element (141) comprises at least two Peltier elements (141a, 141b).

25. The cooling and heating device (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the thermoelectric module (14a-n) has a heat sink (142).

26. The cooling and heating device (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a plate (30) which is applied to the second layer from the outside and is connected to the heat sink of the thermoelectric module via a screw connection.

27. The cooling and heating device (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising flexible airflow guide rails (24) which form an airflow channel from the fan to the thermoelectric module. REVISED SHEET (RULE 91) ISA / EP 28. A method (100) for producing a portable cooling and heating device, comprising the steps of: - Providing (102) a first layer and / or a second layer of a belt and at least one thermoelectric module for attachment to the belt and a housing for each thermoelectric module, the housing having a lower cover device, an upper cover device and a middle housing body, and a fan; - positive and / or material-locking connection (104) of the first temperature distribution layer and the fastening frame for each thermoelectric module, wherein the first layer is arranged between the fastening frame and the first temperature distribution layer and is positively and / or materially connected to the lower cover device; - arranging (106) at least one thermoelectric module on the respective lower cover device; - connecting (108) a respective middle housing body to the respective lower cover device for each thermoelectric module, - arranging (110) a second layer on the respective middle housing body for each thermoelectric module; - attaching (112) a fan for each thermoelectric module to the belt, wherein the fan is arranged in the housing (112A) or is attached directly to the first and / or second layer of the belt (112B); - connecting (114) the respective upper cover device to the respective middle housing body for each thermoelectric module, so that the second layer is positively connected between the respective middle housing body and the respective upper cover device; - connecting (116) an outlet opening to the second layer or between the first layer and the second layer; - Electrically connecting (118) the thermoelectric module and the fan to a control device, - Connecting (120) the first layer and the second layer to form a belt.

29. The method according to claim 28, wherein at least one fan is designed as a radial fan and is attached to the belt (112B) separately from the at least one thermoelectric module, wherein the centers of the thermoelectric module and the fan are aligned with each other substantially on a straight line transverse to the direction of rotation.

30. The method according to claim 28, wherein at least one fan is designed as an axial fan and is arranged with the respective thermoelectric module in the housing (112A).

31. Method according to one of claims 28 to 30; wherein the fastening frame is connected (104A) to the temperature distribution layer by an injection molding process in a material-locking manner or in a form-locking manner to the temperature distribution layer.

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