Garment fan and garment with fan

Abstract

To provide a garment fan which can sufficiently provide cooling effect.SOLUTION: A garment fan includes: an intake fan; a cylindrical body which stores the intake fan and forms openings at sides and a bottom face; a Peltier module which includes a Peltier element and faces the intake fan; and a heat transfer body which is brought into contact with the Peltier module. The heat transfer body constitutes a top of the body. In the heat transfer body, a contact face with the Peltier module is larger than a contact face of the Peltier module with the heat transfer body. An exposed face of a top side of the heat transfer body is also larger than the contact face of the Peltier module with the heat transfer body.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 17

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a temperature adjustment device that can be attached to clothing such as work clothes to adjust the temperature felt by the body, and to clothing equipped with the same. [Background technology]

[0002] In recent years, clothing with fans (hereinafter referred to as clothing fans) (also referred to as EF wear) that prevent the wearer from sweating and provide a feeling of coolness have been used at construction sites and other locations. In fan-equipped clothing, the fan is attached to the clothing by clamping the edge of a mounting hole formed in the clothing into the fan body. The fan then draws in outside air, passes it through the clothing, and expels it from around the neck (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

[0003] Meanwhile, clothing equipped with a cooling device (hereinafter referred to as a Peltier cooling unit) that has a thermoelectric element such as a Peltier element and a cooling function using the Peltier effect is known. In this case, a heat exchange plate or heat transfer material is placed on the heat absorption side of the Peltier module and is brought into contact with the body to suppress an increase in perceived temperature (see Patent Document 2).

[0004] Also known is a cooling device that has a Peltier element disposed within a housing and is provided with a cool air outlet through which cool air that has passed through cooling fins is exhausted, and a heat radiator outlet through which hot air that has passed through heat radiator fins is exhausted (see Patent Document 3).Furthermore, clothing equipped with a temperature control device that combines a cooling device with a Peltier element and a clothing fan has also been proposed (see Patent Document 4). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Utility Model Registration No. 3226938 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2021-113371 [Patent Document 3] Patent No. 7290237 [Patent Document 4] Utility Model Registration No. 3240865 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] Conventional Peltier cooling units require dedicated mounting holes different from clothing fans, which requires more sewing work on the garment. Furthermore, the size of the device itself depends on the size of the Peltier cooling module equipped with the Peltier element, which limits the cooling effect. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] One aspect of the present invention is a clothing fan comprising an intake fan, a cylindrical body that houses the intake fan and has an intake opening formed on the bottom and an exhaust opening formed on the side, a Peltier module that is equipped with a Peltier element and housed in the body, and a heat transfer body that contacts the Peltier module, the heat transfer body facing the intake fan and having a contact surface that contacts the Peltier module and an exposed surface that forms the top of the body, the sizes of the contact surface and the exposed surface being larger than the size of the surface of the Peltier module that contacts the heat transfer body.

[0008] For example, the exposed surface is circular, the intake fan is arranged coaxially with the main body, and the diameter of the exposed surface is larger than the diameter of the intake fan.

[0009] For example, the exposed surface is parallel to the contact surface.

[0010] For example, the size of the cooling plate occupies 80% or more of the top of the main body.

[0011] For example, a heat dissipation fin may be further provided extending from the base portion in contact with the Peltier module toward the intake fan, and a partition member may be provided between the heat dissipation fin and the intake fan. [Effects of the Invention]

[0012] According to the present invention, a clothing fan capable of providing a sufficient cooling effect can be provided. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0013] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram showing clothing equipped with a temperature adjustment device according to a first embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a front view of the Peltier cooling unit. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a side view of the Peltier cooling unit. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a schematic exploded perspective view of a Peltier cooling unit. [Figure 5] FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a temperature control device. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a block diagram of a power cable for another embodiment of the temperature control device. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a side view of a Peltier cooling unit according to a second embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a schematic exploded perspective view of a Peltier cooling unit according to a second embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view showing a Peltier cooling unit according to a third embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing a Peltier cooling unit according to a fourth embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view showing a Peltier cooling unit according to a fourth embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view showing a Peltier cooling unit according to a fifth embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a Peltier cooling unit according to a sixth embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 10 is a side view of a Peltier cooling unit according to a seventh embodiment. [Figure 15] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view showing a temperature control device of another embodiment. [Figure 16] FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing a temperature control device according to another embodiment. [Figure 17] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view showing a temperature control device according to another embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0014] Hereinafter, a clothing fan according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0015] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing clothing equipped with a temperature adjusting device according to the first embodiment.

[0016] Garment 1 is a garment to which a temperature adjustment device can be attached detachably, and here it is composed of an inner garment 3 and an outer garment 2. The temperature adjustment device includes a Peltier cooling unit (not shown here) equipped with a Peltier element, and garment fans 5R1, 5R2 that can draw outside air into the garment. The vest-type inner garment 3 is provided with attachment portions 3R1, 3R2, and 3R2 to which three Peltier cooling units can be attached. The long-sleeve outer garment 2 is provided with two attachment portions 2R1 and 2R2 on the back side (back body).

[0017] The user puts on the inner garment 3 and the outer garment 2 while wearing a base garment such as underwear. The garment 1 is provided with a pouch such as a pocket that can hold a portable battery (described later), and the temperature control device is electrically connected to the battery via a power cable (described later). When the user operates the battery, power is supplied to the temperature control device.

[0018] Here, the mounting portions 3R1, 3R2, and 3R3 of the inner 3 are formed in a mesh shape. Circular holes are formed in the mounting portions 3R1, 3R2, and 3R3 of the inner 3 according to the shape and size of the Peltier cooling units described below. Circular holes are formed in the mounting portions 2R1 and 2R2 of the outer 2 according to the shape and size of the clothing fans 5R1 and 5R2.

[0019] Garment fans 5R1 and 5R2 attached to outer garment 2 are configured as axial fans and include propellers 6R1 and 6R2, respectively. Garment fans 5R1 and 5R2 are attached to outer garment 2 with their front sides facing outward from the garment, and the rotation of propellers 6R1 and 6R2 draws outside air into garment 1.

[0020] The clothing fans 5R1, 5R2 can be attached to the outer garment 2 by conventionally known attachment means. For example, they can be attached to the outer garment 2 by a locking structure using a claw or the like. It is also possible to provide a flange on the fan body and screw it onto an annular member, thereby sandwiching the edge of the holes in the attachment portions 2R1, 2R2. Alternatively, a flanged cover can be screwed onto the fan body, thereby sandwiching the edge of the holes in the attachment portions 2R1, 2R2.

[0021] Fig. 2 is a front view of the Peltier cooling unit. Fig. 3 is a side view of the Peltier cooling unit. Fig. 4 is a schematic exploded perspective view of the Peltier cooling unit. The configuration of the Peltier cooling unit will be described using Figs. 2 to 4. However, in Fig. 4, some components are omitted.

[0022] 4, Peltier cooling unit 10 includes Peltier module 51 incorporating a Peltier element made up of a semiconductor element, cooling module 50 consisting of heat dissipation fins 52, a motor (not shown), and is housed in main body 20. Peltier module 51 exerts its cooling function by the temperature difference between the heat absorption surface of the Peltier element facing the top of the main body and the heat dissipation surface facing the bottom of the main body.

[0023] Here, the main body 20 is configured as a cylindrical member, and slits (openings) 26 are formed at predetermined intervals on the side surface. A plate-shaped heat transfer body 60 made of a metal such as aluminum is provided on the top of the main body 20, and the heat transfer body 60 is in close contact with the Peltier module 51. The bottom portion 22 of the main body 20 is planar and removable, and an opening portion 20R with a rib structure is formed near the center of the bottom portion 22.

[0024] A heat dissipation fan 30 is provided on the heat dissipation surface side of the Peltier module 51, i.e., on the bottom side of the main body. The Peltier cooling unit 10 expels heated air from the Peltier module 51 side through the opening 20R as the heat dissipation fan 30 rotates. The heat dissipation fan 30 is arranged coaxially with the cylindrical main body 20. The heat dissipation fan 30 can be configured with or without a casing.

[0025] The Peltier cooling unit 10 is detachably attached to the inner 3 by the engagement between the bottom 22 and the ring 40. On the peripheral edge (flange portion) of the bottom 22 of the main body 20, protrusions 24 extending toward the top side of the main body 20 are provided at predetermined intervals along the circumferential direction of the bottom 22.

[0026] The ring 40 is configured as an annular member that surrounds the cylindrical main body 20 and has a size that allows it to fit into place. The ring 40 has engagement portions 42 with circumferential holes that correspond to the spacing of the protrusions 24. When the ring 40 is fitted from the inside (body side) of the mesh-like inner 3 toward the top of the main body 20, the engagement portions 42 engage with the convex portions 25 that protrude radially outward from the protrusions 24 on the outside of the inner 3 (see symbol F in FIG. 4), thereby attaching the Peltier cooling unit 10 to the inner 3. Note that the ring 40 is not shown in FIG. 4.

[0027] When the user puts on the inner garment 3 and outer garment 2, the heat transfer element 60 provided on the top of the main body 20 of the Peltier cooling unit 10 comes into contact with the base B, such as underwear. By operating the Peltier cooling unit 10, a cooling effect is obtained for the user. Furthermore, by operating the clothing fans 5R1 and 5R2, the air drawn in passes between the inner garment 3 and the outer garment 2, providing a feeling of coolness.

[0028] Fig. 5 is a block diagram including the power cable connection configuration of the temperature control device. The configuration of the power cable that supplies power to clothes fans 5R1 and 5R2 and Peltier cooling unit 10 in this embodiment will be described using Fig. 5. However, Fig. 5 shows a configuration in which power is supplied to one Peltier cooling unit 10.

[0029] The mobile battery 70 includes a power control unit 72 and an operation unit 74. By operating the operation unit 74, the user can select and set a predetermined voltage level from among a plurality of voltage levels (e.g., 8 V, 10 V, 13 V, 18 V, etc.).

[0030] Power cable 80 is configured as a branched cable capable of supplying power to a temperature control device including battery 70, (here one) Peltier cooling unit 10, and a pair of clothing fans 5R1, 5R2, and has a branched portion 88.

[0031] The power cable 80 comprises a trunk cable 82, a pair of cables (hereinafter referred to as clothing fan branch cables) 84 and 86 that branch off from a branch point 88 and can be connected to the clothing fans 5R1 and 5R2, respectively, and a cable (hereinafter referred to as Peltier cooling unit branch cable) 92 that can be connected to the Peltier cooling unit 10.

[0032] Connection terminal 81 of trunk cable 82 is configured as, for example, a plug type and can be connected to the DC output portion of battery 70. Connection terminals 83, 85 of clothing fan branch cables 84, 86 can also be configured as plug types. Peltier cooling unit branch cable 92 can also be configured as a plug type to be connected to Peltier cooling unit 10.

[0033] The Peltier cooling unit branch cable 92 is configured to be detachable midway along the cable, i.e., to be electrically connectable and detachable. The Peltier cooling unit branch cable 92 is made up of a cable 92A extending from the branch portion 88 (hereinafter referred to as the battery-side branch cable) and a cable 92B connectable to the Peltier cooling unit 10 (hereinafter referred to as the Peltier cooling unit-side branch cable). Note that the Peltier cooling unit-side branch cable 92B may be configured so that its end is not detachable from the Peltier cooling unit 10, but is instead connected to the power supply connector of the Peltier cooling unit 10.

[0034] The connection between the Peltier cooling unit side branch cable 92B and the battery side branch cable 92A may have any configuration. For example, it may be a plug or jack type connection port. Alternatively, it may be configured with a connection terminal conforming to the USB standard.

[0035] The Peltier cooling unit side branch cable 92B is provided with an operation unit 90 that can adjust and change the amount of current flowing through the Peltier element of the Peltier cooling unit 10. The operation unit 90 is provided with a button 93 that can adjust the cooling effect in multiple stages (for example, two stages: strong and weak), and the amount of current is adjusted so as to change the temperature difference between the heat absorption surface and heat release surface of the Peltier element.

[0036] The operation unit 90 is also provided with a power control unit 94. The power control unit 94 is configured to be able to supply power to the Peltier cooling unit 10 independently of the supply voltage level of the battery 70. The power control unit 94 can be configured, for example, with a semiconductor device such as a switching regulator that controls the current value, or can also be configured as a voltage-controlled step-down / step-up circuit (buck-boost converter).

[0037] Here, power is supplied from power control unit 94 to Peltier cooling unit 10 in accordance with the lowest voltage level that can be set in battery 70 by power control unit 94. The power supplied to Peltier cooling unit 10 is determined based on the operating characteristics including the cooling effect, the rotation speed of heat dissipation fan 30, etc.

[0038] The user can separately adjust the airflow of the clothing fans 5R1 and 5R2 and the cooling effect of the Peltier cooling unit 10 (Peltier element temperature difference) by operating the operation unit 74 of the battery 70 and the operation unit 90 of the Peltier cooling unit side branch cable 92B.

[0039] When the user changes the voltage level using operation unit 74 of battery 70, clothes fans 5R1, 5R2 rotate at a speed corresponding to the changed voltage level via clothes fan branch cables 84, 86 connected in parallel to branch unit 88. Meanwhile, for Peltier cooling unit 10, the power control unit 94 provided in operation unit 90 does not change the current flowing through the Peltier element, and the rotation speed of heat dissipation fan 30 is also maintained.

[0040] Meanwhile, the user can increase or decrease the cooling effect of Peltier cooling unit 10 by operating button 93 on operation unit 90. In this case, because garment fans 5R1 and 5R2 are powered by power supplied from battery 70, the rotation speed is maintained regardless of changes in the cooling level of Peltier cooling unit 10, and the amount of airflow through garment 1 is also maintained.

[0041] As described above, power cable 80 of the temperature adjustment device of this embodiment is configured as a branch cable, and Peltier cooling unit side branch cable 92A, which is part of Peltier cooling unit branch cable 92, is configured to be detachable from power cable 80. Also, an operation unit 90 that allows the user to adjust the cooling effect of Peltier cooling unit 10 is provided midway along Peltier cooling unit side branch cable 92B, and a power control unit 94 that controls the power supply to Peltier cooling unit 10 is incorporated into operation unit 90.

[0042] The power cable configuration, which connects some cables as an assembly, allows the Peltier cooling unit 10 to be individually powered, i.e., its operation controlled, while utilizing the battery 70 equipped with an operation unit that allows the user to select and set the conventional power supply. This makes it possible to provide a more precise and appropriate cooling sensation in accordance with the wearer's perceived temperature and the wearing environment, such as the work site.

[0043] Furthermore, even for garments 1 that do not use a Peltier cooling unit 10 or are not equipped with a Peltier cooling unit 10, the power cable 80 can be used by removing the branch cable 92 for the Peltier cooling unit.

[0044] 6 is a block diagram showing another form of power cable, which is configured as a branch cable that supplies power from a battery to multiple Peltier cooling units.

[0045] One end of power cable 180 has connection terminal 181, which is configured as, for example, a USB terminal, that can be connected to battery 170. Power cable 180 includes a trunk cable 182 that connects to branch portion 188, and branch cables 192, 194, and 196 that extend from branch portion 188 and have connection terminals 197, 195, and 193, respectively, that can be connected to Peltier cooling units 10A, 10B, and 10C.

[0046] Along the main cable 182, an operation unit 190 incorporating a power control unit 194 is provided along the cable, along with a button 193 that can adjust and change the cooling effect in stages. The user can use the operation unit 190 to adjust the cooling effect of the Peltier cooling units 10A, 10B, and 10C, and can use the battery 170 that is designed to supply power to the clothing fan.

[0047] The heat dissipation fan of a Peltier cooling unit differs from a clothing fan in size, shape, and required airflow, i.e., the amount of current supplied. By providing a power control unit 194 on the operation unit 190 of the power cable 180, it is possible to supply appropriate power to the heat dissipation fan of the Peltier cooling unit.

[0048] The rotation speed of the heat dissipation fan may be adjusted in response to a user's operation to change the cooling effect using button 193. For example, if the cooling effect (amount of current) of the Peltier element can be set to two levels, "strong" and "weak," using operation unit 190, the operation of the heat dissipation fan can be controlled so that the airflow rate of the heat dissipation fan for "strong" is greater than that for "weak."

[0049] The power cable 180 shown in Fig. 6 is configured as a cable for supplying power to a plurality of Peltier cooling units 10A, 10B, and 10C. However, instead of the Peltier cooling unit side branch cable 92B shown in Fig. 5, the power cable 180 shown in Fig. 6 can be connected to the battery side branch cable 92A.

[0050] Therefore, by preparing multiple branched power cables according to the number of Peltier cooling units to be attached to the garment 1, the power cable 80 shown in Figure 5 can be used as a power cable for a temperature control device regardless of the number of cooling units that can be attached (or will be attached) to the garment 1.

[0051] Note that, when the cooling effect of the Peltier cooling unit, i.e., the amount of current flowing through the Peltier element, is set to a predetermined value, the operation unit 90 may be omitted and the power control unit 94 may be provided midway along the Peltier cooling unit side branch cable 92B. Also, instead of configuring the Peltier cooling unit branch cable 92 so that it can be separated into two cables and connected to each other, the Peltier cooling unit branch cable 92 may be configured so that the cable is directly connected from the end of the branching cable, with the power control unit 94 provided midway along the cable. Also, a communications circuit may be provided to connect to the power control unit, or a power control unit with communications capabilities may be provided so that the Peltier cooling unit can be independently supplied with power and its operation controlled in response to input operations from a device such as a smartphone.

[0052] In this embodiment, a Peltier cooling unit 10 is attached to the inner 3, and clothing fans 5R1 and 5R2 are attached to the outer 2, but this can also be applied to clothing in which the inner 3 is attached to the outer 2 like a liner, or clothing that is not divided into an inner and outer.

[0053] Next, a temperature control device according to a second embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 7 and 8. In the second embodiment, a Peltier cooling unit is formed in a box shape.

[0054] Fig. 7 is a side view of a Peltier cooling unit of a temperature control device according to a second embodiment. Fig. 8 is a schematic exploded perspective view of the Peltier cooling unit. However, in Fig. 8, some components are omitted.

[0055] The Peltier cooling unit 100 accommodates a Peltier module 151 equipped with a Peltier element, a cooling module 150 consisting of heat dissipation fins 152, and a heat dissipation fan 130 within a main body 120, and the Peltier module 151 is in surface contact with a heat transfer body 160 provided on the top of the main body 120.

[0056] The main body 120 is a box-like object that is rectangular when viewed from above, and has a rectangular bottom 122 that is removable from the main body 120 and has a plurality of protrusions 124 arranged near the periphery thereof. A cover member 140 (not shown in FIG. 8 ) with a rectangular cross section is sized to surround the side of the main body 120, and is provided with engaging portions 142 that have holes formed in them to align with the positions of the protrusions 124. The heat dissipation fan 130 is arranged coaxially with the main body 120.

[0057] Compared with the Peltier cooling unit 10 of the first embodiment, the Peltier cooling unit 100 of the second embodiment is equipped with a Peltier element that sets a larger cooling effect, i.e., a larger temperature difference between the heat absorption surface and the heat dissipation surface of the Peltier element. The heat dissipation fan 130 is also larger in size, and its rotation speed (air volume) can be set to a larger value. Therefore, power is supplied to the Peltier cooling unit 100 from the power control unit 94 according to a voltage level higher than the minimum voltage level of the battery 70. When a minimum voltage level is set for the battery, the power control unit can be configured to boost the voltage before supplying power.

[0058] Next, a Peltier cooling unit according to a third embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 9. In the third embodiment, the thickness of the Peltier cooling unit is reduced.

[0059] 9 is a cross-sectional view showing a Peltier cooling unit according to a third embodiment. Peltier cooling unit 200 accommodates, in a cylindrical main body 220, a cooling module 250 including a Peltier module 251 equipped with a Peltier element and heat dissipation fins 252, and a heat dissipation fan 230. A heat transfer body 260 provided at the top of main body 220 is in contact with the cooling module 250. Heat dissipation fan 230 is disposed coaxially with cylindrical main body 220. As in the first embodiment, an opening with a rib structure is provided at the bottom of the main body (this also applies to the embodiments described below).

[0060] The Peltier cooling unit 200 is attached to the inner 3 by sandwiching the inner 3 between the bottom 222 of the main body 220 and the ring 240 that surrounds the main body 220. The configuration for engaging the ring 240 with the main body 220 and attaching it to the inner 3 is the same as in the first and second embodiments.

[0061] As shown in FIG. 9, the heat dissipation fan 230 is disposed coaxially along the axis C of the main body 220. The heat dissipation fan 230 is located at a position where the inner 3 is sandwiched, i.e., at the same position as the flange portion on the periphery of the bottom 222 of the main body 220 that faces the flange portion 241 of the ring 240, or closer to the Peltier module 251 than that. Because the bottom 222 of the main body 220, including the flange portion that contacts the inner 3, is substantially flush with one another, the position of the planar top portion 232S of the hub 232 of the heat dissipation fan 230 along the axis C does not exceed the flange portion of the bottom 222. This configuration is also the same for the Peltier cooling units 10 and 100 of the first and second embodiments.

[0062] Outside air drawn in by the rotation of garment fans 5R1 and 5R2 flows between inner 3 and outer 2 (see FIG. 2). Bottom 222 of main body 220, including its flange portion, is flat, and Peltier cooling unit 200 is attached so as not to protrude from inner 3, so Peltier cooling unit 200 does not obstruct the flow of air between inner 3 and outer 2. In addition, the outlet of heat dissipation fan 230, which is an axial fan, is located near the fabric surface of inner 3 in the direction of axis C of main body 220. Because heat dissipation fins 252 and heat dissipation fan 230 are close to each other along axis C, heat released from Peltier module 251 can be effectively sent between inner 3 and outer 2.

[0063] Next, a Peltier cooling unit according to a fourth embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 10 and 11. In the fourth embodiment, the Peltier cooling unit is attached to clothing by fastening a ring from the body side.

[0064] Fig. 10 is a perspective view showing a Peltier cooling unit according to a fourth embodiment, and Fig. 11 is a cross-sectional view showing a Peltier cooling unit according to the fourth embodiment.

[0065] Peltier cooling unit 300 accommodates, within cylindrical main body 320, cooling module 350 consisting of Peltier module 351 equipped with a Peltier element and heat dissipation fins 352, and heat dissipation fan 330. Heat transfer body 360 provided on the top of main body 320 is in contact with cooling module 350. Heat dissipation fan 330 is arranged coaxially with cylindrical main body 320.

[0066] The inner 3 has a circular hole for attachment formed to match the size (diameter) of the Peltier cooling unit 300. A ring 340, which has a female thread formed on its inner circumferential surface, screws into a male thread formed on the outer circumferential surface of the main body 320. When the ring 340 is tightened from the body side, the peripheral edge of the hole formed in the inner 3 is sandwiched between a flange portion 321, which is located at a position away from (the periphery of) the bottom 322 of the main body 320 along the axis C, and a flange portion 341 of the ring 340. In this way, the Peltier cooling unit 300 is attached to the inner 3.

[0067] The heat dissipation fan 330 is positioned along the axis C of the main body 320 so that the planar top 332S of the hub 332 protrudes from the portion where the inner 3 is sandwiched. However, the entire hub 332 does not protrude from the sandwiched position, and the position of the heat dissipation fan 330 along the axis C is configured to be as close as possible to the position where the flange portion 321 is formed. This makes it possible to prevent the Peltier cooling unit 300 from obstructing the flow between the inner 3 and the outer 2.

[0068] Flange 341 of ring 340, which screws into main body 320, has convex portions 340R1 and concave portions 340R2 arranged alternately to prevent fingers from slipping when turning ring 340 (see FIG. 10). Convex portions 340R1 protrude radially from flange 321 of main body 320. Meanwhile, concave portions 340R2 have the same radial size as flange 321.

[0069] Next, a Peltier cooling unit according to a fifth embodiment will be described with reference to Figure 12. In the fifth embodiment, a ring that screws onto the main body is configured to be tightened from the side opposite the body.

[0070] FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view of a Peltier cooling unit according to the fifth embodiment.

[0071] Peltier cooling unit 400 accommodates, within cylindrical main body 420, a cooling module 450 consisting of a Peltier module 451 equipped with a Peltier element and heat dissipation fins 452, and a heat dissipation fan 430. A heat transfer body 460 provided on the top of main body 420 is in contact with cooling module 450. Heat dissipation fan 430 is arranged coaxially with cylindrical main body 420.

[0072] The heat dissipation fan 430 extends along the axis C of the main body 420, with the top 432S of the hub 432 extending beyond the flange portion of the ring 440, which is the periphery of the ring 440, on the outer side of the garment (see symbol F). However, the entire heat dissipation fan 430 does not extend beyond the flange portion 421 of the ring 440, and the main body 420 is configured to be prevented from protruding from the inner liner 3. The outlet of 430 is located near the flange portion of ring 440 along axis C. By arranging heat dissipation fins 452 and heat dissipation fan 430 facing each other while being close to each other along axis C, heat released from Peltier module 451 can be effectively sent to the air flowing between inner 3 and outer 2.

[0073] In the fourth and fifth embodiments, the Peltier cooling unit is attached to the clothing by screwing and turning the ring, which is an annular member, but it is also possible to use a configuration that does not involve screwing.

[0074] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a Peltier cooling unit according to the sixth embodiment.

[0075] Peltier cooling unit 400' accommodates a Peltier module equipped with a Peltier element, a cooling module (not shown) consisting of heat dissipation fins, and heat dissipation fan 430' inside a cylindrical main body 420'. A heat transfer body 460' that contacts the Peltier module is provided on the top of main body 420'.

[0076] The main body 420' has an annular mounting part that is detachable from the main body 420', and a flange 421' is formed on the heat transfer body 460' side. In addition, locking parts 424' that extend from the flange 421' toward the main body bottom 422', i.e., toward the outside of the garment (see symbol F), are arranged at predetermined intervals along the circumferential direction.

[0077] The ring 440' is a member that is removably mounted between the bottom 422' of the main body 420' and the flange 421', and surrounds the outer circumferential surface of the mounting portion formed between the bottom 422' of the main body 420' and the flange 421', and is sized to fit into the main body 420'.

[0078] The ring 440' is provided with a plurality of flange portions 440'R, each of which has alternating convex portions 440'R1 and concave portions 440'R2 that protrude radially along the circumferential direction, sandwiching a bottom portion 441' that does not protrude radially from the main body 420'. The circumferential positions of the bottom portion 441' correspond to the circumferential positions of the locking portion 424' of the main body 420'. An locking surface 442' that protrudes radially beyond the bottom portion 441' is formed at the end of the flange portion 440'R, and a convex portion 440'R1 of the flange portion 440'R is formed adjacent to the locking surface 442'.

[0079] The locking portion 424' of the main body 420' is a member with an L-shaped cross section, and when the ring 440' is brought into contact with or close to the flange 421' of the main body 420', by aligning the locking portion 424' with the formation position of the bottom portion 441' of the ring 440', the tip surface of the locking portion 424' reaches a position beyond the flange portion 440'R of the ring 440' along the axial direction of the main body and faces the bottom portion 441'. From this position, the ring 440' is rotated so that the locking portion 424' of the main body 420' comes into contact with the locking surface 442' of the ring 440' and comes into contact with the protrusion 440'R1 formed on the end of the flange portion 440'R of the ring 440'.

[0080] When the Peltier cooling unit 400' is attached to the inner casing 3, the peripheral edge of the attachment hole formed in the inner casing 3 is sandwiched between a flange 421' of the main body 420' and a flange portion 440'R of the ring 440', which has alternating convex portions 440'R1 and concave portions 440'R2 formed thereon. Therefore, a locking portion 424' with an L-shaped cross section formed on the main body 420 and a locking surface 442' of the ring 440' face each other along the main body axis and are pressed against each other at their contact surfaces along the circumferential direction. In this way, the Peltier cooling unit 400' is attached to the inner casing 3.

[0081] In this way, no male or female threads are formed on the inner circumferential surface of ring 440' or on the outer circumferential surface of the mounting portion of main body 420', and Peltier cooling unit 400', which is configured not to be fastened with screws, can be attached to inner 3.

[0082] Another configuration for attaching a Peltier cooling unit to clothing using a non-threaded ring is to provide a biasing member (such as an elastic body) on the flange that applies force from the flange formed radially of the main body toward the top of the main body, and push the annular member from the top of the main body toward the biasing member, rotate it in that state by a predetermined angle, and abut and engage with an engaging portion provided on the main body along the axial direction.

[0083] Next, a Peltier cooling unit according to a seventh embodiment will be described with reference to Figure 14. In the seventh embodiment, as in the fifth embodiment, the ring that screws onto the main body is tightened from the outside of the garment, away from the body. In contrast, in the seventh embodiment, the main body has a flangeless structure and is provided with a tapered portion.

[0084] FIG. 14 is a side view of a Peltier cooling unit according to the seventh embodiment.

[0085] Peltier cooling unit 600 houses a cooling module (neither of which are shown) including a Peltier module equipped with a Peltier element and heat dissipation fins, as well as a heat dissipation fan (not shown), inside a cylindrical main body 620. A heat transfer body 660 provided at the top of main body 620 is in contact with the cooling module. The heat dissipation fan is arranged coaxially with cylindrical main body 620.

[0086] The heat dissipation fan extends along the axis C of the main body 620 beyond the flange portion 641, where the top of the hub forms the periphery of the ring 640, on the outer side of the garment (see symbol F). However, the entire heat dissipation fan does not extend beyond the flange portion 641 of the ring 640. In addition, the outlet of the heat dissipation fan is located near the flange portion 641 of the ring 640 along the axis C.

[0087] Main body 620 has tapered portion 620R whose diameter decreases toward heat transfer body 660. Tapered portion 620R has slits 652 formed in the entire circumferential direction. Bottom portion 620B of main body 620 has a diameter substantially equal to the maximum diameter of tapered portion 620R, and main body 620 does not have a flange that extends parallel to the periphery of heat transfer body 660, as shown in the fifth embodiment.

[0088] The inner 3 is sandwiched between a flange portion 641 of the ring 640 and the bottom portion 620B of the main body 620. Then, by tightening the ring 640, the Peltier cooling unit 600 is attached to the inner 3. The flange portion 641 of the ring 640 has a diameter slightly larger than that of the bottom portion 620B of the main body 620.

[0089] Since the main body 620 is configured without a flange that extends along the surface of the heat transfer body 660, it is possible to prevent the Peltier cooling unit 600 from getting caught at an unintended position on the mesh-shaped inner 3. Furthermore, by forming the flange 641 of the ring 640 with a diameter not significantly different from that of the bottom 620B of the main body 620, it is possible to prevent the flange 641 from getting caught on the mesh-shaped inner 3 when tightening the ring 640, and when the inner 3 is sandwiched between the main body 620 and the ring 640, it is possible to easily tighten the ring 640 smoothly and reliably to the end.

[0090] On the other hand, by providing tapered portion 620R in main body 620, the space inside main body 620 is expanded, and the range of heat released from slits 652 of tapered portion 620R is expanded along the direction perpendicular to axis C. By expanding the space inside main body 620, more heat released from the heat release surface side of heat transfer body 660 is more likely to be discharged outside main body 620 by the heat dissipation fan than by slits 625, and when heat inside main body 620 is released to the outside of main body 620 through slits 652, it is released over a wider area relative to inner layer 3, which is mesh-like, making it easier for heat to escape to the outside of the garment.

[0091] The cross-sectional contour of tapered portion 620R of main body 620 is not limited to a straight line, and may be curved. For example, main body 620 may be bowl-shaped, or may have a plurality of tapered portions of different shapes. Furthermore, the diameter of bottom portion 620B of main body 620 may be substantially the same as the diameter of heat transfer body 660, forming a cylindrical shape with a substantially constant diameter.

[0092] In the fourth, fifth and seventh embodiments, the Peltier cooling unit is attached to the clothing by screwing and turning the ring, which is an annular member, but it is also possible to use a configuration that does not involve screwing.

[0093] As described above, the Peltier cooling units shown in the first to seventh embodiments constitute a temperature control device that can provide a more effective cooling sensation and sensible temperature even when a power cable other than the above-mentioned power cable is applied.

[0094] Peltier elements exert their cooling function by the Peltier effect, where a temperature difference occurs between the two sides when an electric current is passed through the Peltier element, causing the low-temperature side to absorb heat and the high-temperature side to generate heat. To prevent sweating and provide a cool feeling to the wearer, it is necessary to consider not only the amount of electric current but also the adhesion to the body and heat dissipation function. On the other hand, clothing fans prevent sweating and provide a cool feeling to the wearer by passing outside air through the clothing, so it is necessary to consider factors such as increasing the air volume and the flow path within the clothing.

[0095] As described above, there are various differences between Peltier cooling units and garment fans that must be considered, such as the structure and layout required to provide cooling to the wearer, and therefore it is difficult to enhance the cooling effect by simply combining a Peltier cooling unit with a garment fan.

[0096] Therefore, it is desired to provide a temperature control device equipped with a Peltier cooling unit that can easily achieve a synergistic effect in combination with the outside air intake of a clothes fan.

[0097] The temperature adjustment device is configured as a device capable of adjusting at least one of body temperature, perceived temperature, and temperature inside clothing. The temperature adjustment device includes at least one Peltier cooling unit equipped with a Peltier element, and at least one air blower fan (hereinafter referred to as clothing fan) capable of drawing outside air into the clothing. It is also possible to include a power supply unit that supplies power to the Peltier cooling unit and clothing fan. The air blower fan is configured, for example, as an axial fan. The power supply unit can be configured, for example, as a battery.

[0098] The Peltier cooling unit and the blower fan can be detachably attached to clothing. Here, "detachably attached" means that each device is attached to the clothing so that it can be removed by the wearer, and work can be performed while it is attached. For example, this includes a configuration in which the device is attached using a mechanism (locking mechanism, screw mechanism, etc.) that clamps the clothing and attaches it. It can be attached by forming a flange on the main body and tightening the annular member on which the flange is formed.

[0099] There are various configurations of clothing to which a temperature control device can be attached. For example, the clothing may be configured as an inner garment with a mounting portion to which a Peltier cooling unit can be attached and an outer garment with a mounting portion to which a blower fan can be attached. Alternatively, the clothing may be configured as an integrated garment with mounting portions to which a Peltier cooling unit and a blower fan can be attached, respectively.

[0100] In the Peltier cooling unit, a heat transfer material that can come into contact with the body or base clothing such as underwear is provided on the heat absorption side of the Peltier element. A heat dissipation fan that exhausts air from the heat dissipation side of the Peltier cooling unit is also provided on the heat dissipation side of the Peltier element. For example, the heat transfer material can be in direct or indirect contact with the heat absorption surface of the Peltier element, and the heat absorption effect of the Peltier element can provide a cooling effect to the body. A flange can also be formed radially outward along the axial direction of the main body, on the heat absorption side of the Peltier module, away from the periphery of the heat transfer material surface that comes into contact with the body, underwear, etc.

[0101] A heat dissipation fin can be provided between the heat dissipation fan and the Peltier element. The fan body is configured, for example, as a cylindrical body with a circular or rectangular cross section, and houses a Peltier element or a Peltier module equipped with a Peltier element, heat dissipation fins, a heat dissipation fan, etc. The heat dissipation fan can be arranged coaxially with the fan body.

[0102] The heat dissipation fan can be configured so that, when the Peltier cooling unit is attached to clothing, it is positioned closer to the heat dissipation surface of the Peltier element than the clothing. Alternatively, the hub to which the propeller constituting the heat dissipation fan is attached can be configured so that its entire length along the unit axis or fan axis is not positioned outside the clothing or the flange portion of the unit body that holds the clothing. In other words, at least a portion of the hub to which the propeller is attached is positioned at the same position along the fan axis as the flange portion that holds the clothing.

[0103] The Peltier cooling unit can be configured such that a flange is formed on the bottom of the main body, which houses a Peltier module equipped with a Peltier element and a heat dissipation fan, opposite the heat absorption surface of the Peltier element, and an annular member is inserted from the top side, i.e., the Peltier element heat absorption side, to surround the main body, and clothing is sandwiched between the annular member and the flange. For example, the annular member can be configured to be fitted into the main body or screwed onto the outer periphery of the main body. Alternatively, a flange can be formed on the main body at a position away from the periphery of the heat absorption surface of the Peltier element, and the annular member can be fitted or tightened from the bottom side of the main body (heat dissipation fan side).

[0104] This type of heat dissipation fan placement allows the Peltier cooling unit to be attached without protruding from the clothing, preventing the intake of air by the blower fan from disturbing the air flowing inside the clothing, and also preventing the Peltier element's exhaust heat from being sent excessively into the flow path inside the clothing, which would reduce the feeling of coolness.

[0105] For example, a Peltier cooling unit may have a heat transfer body at its top and a main body housing a heat dissipation fan, with the heat dissipation fan positioned closer to the bottom of the main body than the heat transfer body. The Peltier cooling unit may also be configured with a flange that contacts the clothing when attached to the clothing, and the flange may be formed around the bottom of the main body. In other words, the bottom of the main body may be flat, with a flange around the periphery.

[0106] The Peltier cooling unit may also have a heat transfer body at its top, a main body housing a heat dissipation fan, and a tapered portion that narrows toward the heat transfer body. For example, a slit may be formed in the tapered portion along the circumferential direction. The Peltier cooling unit may also have a main body without a flange at its bottom, and a ring that screws onto the main body by tightening it against the main body from the side opposite the heat transfer body. The ring may have a flange that sandwiches clothing such as innerwear between it and the main body.

[0107] The attachment structure for attaching a Peltier cooling unit to clothing varies, including locking with a locking portion and screwing with a ring-shaped member. In particular, Peltier units that can be attached to clothing using a ring-shaped member rather than a screw-and-turning structure allow for easy and reliable attachment and removal. The attachment structure, which threads the ring-shaped member and the main body together and clamps the clothing between the flange of the main body and the flange of the ring, can be difficult to securely tighten depending on the fabric of the clothing, such as mesh. Furthermore, since the top of the main body comes into contact with a base such as underwear and is used in combination with a clothing fan, it is necessary to keep the unit's thickness small. Furthermore, Peltier cooling units tend to be smaller in size than clothing fans. This limits the outer surface area where threads can be cut along the axial direction of the main body, reducing the number of times the ring needs to be screwed. This makes it difficult to securely attach and fasten the Peltier cooling unit.

[0108] As an example of a configuration that does not have a ring-shaped member that screws into the main body, a Peltier cooling unit includes a Peltier module equipped with a Peltier element, a cylindrical main body that houses the Peltier module equipped with the Peltier element, a heat transfer body that is provided at the top of the main body and in contact with the Peltier module, and a heat dissipation fan that is provided between the bottom of the main body and the Peltier module.

[0109] The main body forms a main body flange at a position spaced apart from the bottom of the main body along the main body axis, and an annular member is removably attached between the main body bottom and the flange so as to surround the outer circumferential surface of the main body. The main body flange is provided with a plurality of locking portions extending toward the main body bottom along the main body axial direction, at predetermined intervals along the circumferential direction. The annular member is formed with a plurality of flange portions in which convex portions and concave portions are arranged alternately, with a bottom portion that does not protrude from the main body interposed therebetween. The intervals at which the bottoms are formed along the circumferential direction correspond to the locations at which the locking portions are formed on the main body.

[0110] The locking portion has an L-shaped cross section, and a locking surface that protrudes radially from the bottom is formed at the end of the flange portion of the annular member. The ring can be fitted into the main body so that the locking portion of the main body faces the bottom of the annular member, and by rotating the annular member until the protrusion of the flange portion and the locking portion abut, the locking portion of the main body and the locking surface can be pressed together along the axial direction of the main body.

[0111] The heat dissipation fan can be operated so as not to send excessive exhaust heat into the flow path within the garment. For example, the rotation speed of the heat dissipation fan when operating in response to the voltage supplied from the power supply unit can be configured to be slower than the rotation speed of the blower fan when operating in response to the voltage supplied from the power supply unit.

[0112] The heat dissipation fan can be configured so that the airflow when operating in response to the voltage supplied from the power supply is less than the airflow of the blower fan when operating in response to the voltage supplied from the power supply. When multiple Peltier cooling units (heat dissipation fans) or multiple clothing fans are installed, each heat dissipation fan can be configured to have a smaller airflow than each of the blower fans. The airflow of the heat dissipation fan and clothing fan can be determined according to fan specifications (such as pq characteristics), standards such as JIS, or airflow measured using fan airflow measuring equipment.

[0113] A heat dissipation fan having the above airflow characteristics can be configured by determining or adjusting not only the rotational speed of the fan, but also the shape, size, and number of blades of the propeller or fins, or by adjusting the supply voltage. For example, if the clothes fan is an axial fan and the same voltage is supplied to the heat dissipation fan and the blower fan from a power source such as a battery, the clothes fan will have blades that are relatively smaller in size than the clothes fan so that the airflow of the heat dissipation fan is smaller than that of the blower fan.

[0114] In addition, if the clothing fan can change the airflow volume in stages according to multiple supply voltage levels, In this case, the airflow rate of the heat dissipation fan when operating in accordance with the voltage supplied from the power supply unit can be configured to be less than the airflow rate of the blower fan when operating in accordance with the minimum supply voltage level. For example, a power control unit such as that provided in the electric table can be provided.

[0115] Such a temperature adjustment device can provide a Peltier cooling unit and a clothing fan that can effectively cool the body or provide a refreshing feeling.

[0116] Next, a temperature adjustment device according to another embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 15. In this embodiment, a temperature adjustment device is configured in which a Peltier cooling unit and a clothes fan are integrated together.

[0117] Temperature adjustment device 500 is detachably attached to an attachment hole formed in clothing. Temperature adjustment device 500 is equipped with two axial fans, which are housed coaxially in fan main body 520. In the following, when attached to clothing, the front fan that blows air toward the outside of the clothing through the clothing attachment hole is referred to as heat dissipation fan 530A, and the rear fan that blows air toward the inside of the clothing is referred to as cooling fan 530B.

[0118] Fan body 520 is configured as a cylindrical casing that houses heat dissipation fan 530A, cooling fan 530B, a motor, etc. Fan body 520 has openings with planar rib structures at both ends along axis C, and flange 521 is formed around the periphery of bottom 522 of fan body 520.

[0119] A ring 540 can be detachably attached to the fan main body 520. The ring 540 has a female thread formed on its inner surface, which can be threadedly engaged with a male thread formed on the outer circumferential surface of the fan main body 520. The ring 540 also has a flange portion. The temperature adjustment device 500 can be attached to the inner body 3 by threading the ring 540 and sandwiching the edge portion of the hole formed in the inner body 3 between the flange portion of the ring 540 and the flange 521 of the main body 520.

[0120] Cooling module 550 composed of Peltier module 551, heat conduction fins 552A, and heat dissipation fins 552B is provided within fan main body 520. Cooling fan 530B is arranged opposite the heat absorption surface of Peltier module 551, and heat dissipation fan 530A is arranged opposite the heat dissipation surface. Therefore, heat dissipation fan 530A, Peltier module 551, and cooling fan 530B are arranged in this order along fan axis C, from the outside of the clothing toward the body.

[0121] The interior space of the fan main body 520 is divided by a disk-shaped heat transfer material that contacts the heat absorption surface side of the cooling module 550 and has heat conduction fins formed on its periphery along the axis C, and a disk-shaped heat transfer material that contacts the heat dissipation surface of the Peltier module 551 and has heat dissipation fins formed on its periphery along the axis C.

[0122] Specifically, a section accommodating heat dissipation fan 530A (herein referred to as a heat dissipation section) and a section accommodating cooling fan 530B (herein referred to as a cooling section) are formed inside main body 520. The heat dissipation section and the cooling section may be completely separated spatially, or a partial spatial connection (gap) may be provided. The cooling section has a larger space than the heat dissipation section.

[0123] A plate-like member having a rectangular opening (frame) formed in the center to fit the rectangular Peltier module 551 is provided inside the main body 520, and the Peltier module 551 is fixed to the main body 520 by being housed within the frame.

[0124] Cooling fan 530B is surrounded by heat-conducting fins 552A extending along fan axis C. Heat-dissipating fan 530A is surrounded by heat-dissipating fins 552B extending along fan axis C. The lengths of heat-dissipating fins 552B and heat-conducting fins 552A along fan axis C are long enough to surround heat-dissipating fan 530A and cooling fan 530B entirely around fan axis C, respectively.

[0125] The fan main body 520 is provided with a connector for a power cable (not shown). When a motor (not shown) is driven, a motor shaft (not shown) rotates, causing the cooling fan 530B and the heat dissipation fan 530A attached to the motor shaft to rotate. The cooling fan 530B rotates on its axis so as to discharge air from the cooling compartment to the outside of the fan and toward the body. The heat dissipation fan 530A rotates on its axis so as to discharge heated air from the heat dissipation compartment to the outside of the fan, i.e., to the outside of the clothing (see symbol F).

[0126] Here, the cooling fan 530B and the heat dissipation fan 530A are the same in terms of the number of blades, size, fan shape characteristics relating to air volume, etc., but may be different in at least one characteristic.

[0127] When thermal power is supplied from a battery (not shown) via a power cable, the Peltier effect cools the heat transfer material on the cooling fan 530B side, and also cools the heat conduction fins 552A extending along the periphery of the heat transfer material in the direction of axis C. As the cooling fan 530B surrounded by the heat conduction fins 552A rotates, the air cooled in the cooling section is discharged toward the inside of the clothing.

[0128] Meanwhile, heat released from the heat dissipation surface of the Peltier element is transferred to the heat transfer material arranged along the periphery of heat dissipation fins 552B, and the heat is transferred to heat dissipation fins 552B. When heat dissipation fan 530A surrounded by heat dissipation fins 552B rotates, air in the heat dissipation section is expelled toward the outside of the clothing.

[0129] As described above, according to this embodiment, the temperature adjustment device 500 includes the heat dissipation fan 530A, the cooling module 550, and the cooling fan 530B, which are arranged in this order from the bottom 522 of the main body 520 toward the top, i.e., from the outside of the clothing toward the body, along the fan axis C. Furthermore, a cooling compartment and a heat dissipation compartment are formed within the main body 520 with the Peltier module 551 interposed therebetween.

[0130] Instead of sending outside air into the clothing, the air near the heat-absorbing surface of the Peltier element is sent into the clothing by cooling fan 530B, while the air on the heat-generating surface side is expelled to the outside of the clothing by heat-dissipation fan 530A. Since air does not pass between the outside and inside of the clothing and cooling air flows within the clothing, sweating and other issues can be effectively suppressed.

[0131] It is also possible to reverse the direction of current flow to the Peltier element, so that hot air is sent into the clothes and cooled air is expelled outside the clothes. This is effective, for example, when drying clothes. In this case, the fan located near the planar opening of the rib structure is configured as a cooling fan, and the fan located at the cylindrical opening of the rib structure is configured as a heat dissipation fan. This can also be used as a substitute for the Peltier cooling units shown in the first to fifth embodiments.

[0132] The temperature control device described above can be configured as a temperature control device having technical features different from those of the temperature control device having the power cable and Peltier cooling unit described above.

[0133] When the outside air itself is hot, simply drawing the outside air into clothing is not very effective in reducing sweating. There is a need to provide a temperature control device with a fan structure that can provide a more effective cooling sensation.

[0134] This temperature control device is configured as a fan with two fans, and includes a Peltier module equipped with a thermoelectric element such as a Peltier element that has a cooling function due to the Peltier effect, a fan (heat dissipation fan) provided on the heat-generating surface side of the Peltier element, and a fan (cooling fan) provided on the heat-absorbing surface side.The temperature control device also includes a fan body (hereinafter also referred to as a fan casing) that houses the heat dissipation fan, Peltier module, and cooling fan, which are arranged in this order along the fan axis.

[0135] The fan casing can be configured as a cylindrical casing that has an opening on the heat absorption side of the Peltier element that faces and / or surrounds the cooling fan, and an opening on the heat generation side that faces and / or surrounds the heat dissipation fan.

[0136] For example, a planar opening can be provided on the side where the clothing is sandwiched (the clothing surface side), and a cylindrical opening can be provided on the inner side of the clothing. For example, a planar opening with a ribbed structure having multiple concentric annular ribs and multiple radial ribs intersecting the concentric annular ribs can be formed in the fan casing. Also, a cylindrical opening can be formed in the fan casing from the side of the rib structure, with the rib structure as its apex.

[0137] There are various ways to attach a clothing fan to clothing. For example, when a ring is detachably attached to the fan casing, the fan can be attached to clothing by pinching the edge of the attachment hole in the clothing between the ring and a flange formed on the fan casing.

[0138] The fan casing may be configured to divide the interior into a section (heat dissipation section) that houses the heat dissipation fan and a section (cooling section) that houses the cooling fan, and a partition member may be provided to form these sections. For example, the partition member may be configured as a thermally conductive member.

[0139] There are various arrangements for the Peltier elements and the partition member. The partition member can be configured as a member that supports and holds the Peltier elements. For example, the partition member can be configured to have an opening (frame) that matches the shape of the plate-shaped Peltier element, and the Peltier element can be housed or fitted into the opening.

[0140] The temperature control device may include fins (herein referred to as heat dissipation fins) arranged at predetermined intervals around the fan axis and surrounding the periphery of the heat dissipation fan. The temperature control device may also include thermally conductive fins (herein referred to as cooling fins) arranged at predetermined intervals around the cooling fan axis and surrounding the periphery of the cooling fan. The heat dissipation fins and cooling fins may be configured to extend along the fan axis. For example, the lengths of the heat dissipation fins and cooling fins along the fan axis may be set to a length that completely surrounds the heat dissipation fan or cooling fan, respectively, or may be set to a length that partially faces the heat dissipation fan or cooling fan.

[0141] The heat dissipation fins and cooling fins can be connected directly or indirectly to the Peltier module. For example, a disc-shaped heat transfer member with heat dissipation fins arranged at predetermined intervals along its periphery can be connected to the Peltier module and / or the partition member. Also, a disc-shaped heat transfer member with heat dissipation fins arranged at predetermined intervals along its periphery can be connected to the Peltier module and / or the partition member.

[0142] The temperature control device can be configured so that the direction of current flow to the Peltier element is switchable. Typically, the direction of current flow to the Peltier element is determined so that, when the clothing fan is attached to clothing, the heat-absorbing surface of the Peltier element faces the back of the clothing and the heat-generating surface faces the front of the clothing. The fan on the back side of the clothing is configured as a cooling fan, and the fan on the front side of the clothing is configured as a heat-dissipating fan. However, it is also possible to reverse the current flow direction and configure the fan on the front side of the clothing as a cooling fan and the fan on the back side of the clothing as a heat-dissipating fan, allowing them to be switched between the two.

[0143] The configurations and sizes of the cooling compartment and heat dissipation compartment within the fan casing can vary. For example, the cooling compartment can be configured to be larger or smaller than the heat dissipation compartment. The distance along the fan axis between the Peltier element or the partition member and the heat dissipation fan or the cooling fan can also be varied. For example, the distance between the Peltier element and the cooling fan can be longer than the distance between the Peltier element and the heat dissipation fan.

[0144] The cooling fan and the heat dissipation fan may have the same configuration or may have different configurations. The cooling fan and the heat dissipation fan may be configured to differ in at least one of the following: fan diameter, number of blades, rotation speed, and air volume. For example, the cooling fan may be larger than the heat dissipation fan in at least one of the diameter, number of blades, rotation speed, and air volume.

[0145] The heat dissipation fan and the cooling fan can be controlled in conjunction with each other, or they can be controlled independently. For example, they can share a common power cable connection port.

[0146] Next, a temperature control device according to another embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 16 and 17. In this embodiment, a clothing fan having a Peltier effect function is configured as the temperature control device.

[0147] Fig. 16 is a perspective view showing a temperature control device according to another embodiment, and Fig. 17 is a cross-sectional view showing a temperature control device according to another embodiment.

[0148] Temperature adjustment device 700 has a size equivalent to that of a clothing fan, and is attached to a circular hole for attaching a clothing fan provided in clothing 1. The circular hole for attaching a clothing fan is usually set to 90 mm.

[0149] Temperature control device 700 houses intake fan 730 in cylindrical main body 720. Intake fan 730 is arranged coaxially with main body 720. Bottom 722 of main body 720 has a ribbed structure near the center, with multiple intake ports 720R formed radially. In addition, bottom 722 of main body 720 is formed with flange 721.

[0150] Ring 740, which has a female thread formed on its inner circumferential surface, screws into a male thread formed on the outer circumferential surface of main body 720. When ring 740 is turned from the body side, the peripheral edge of a hole formed in garment 1 is sandwiched between flange portion 721, which is located at a distance along axis C from (the periphery of) bottom 722 of main body 720, and flange portion 741 of ring 740. In this way, temperature adjustment device 700 is attached to garment 1. Note that an engagement portion using a claw or the like may be configured instead and attached to garment 1.

[0151] Main body 720 houses Peltier module 751 equipped with a Peltier element, and cooling module 750 equipped with heat dissipation fins 752. Peltier module 751 is in contact with circular heat transfer body 760 that forms the top of main body 720.

[0152] Circular heat transfer body 760 has a size that covers almost the entire top portion of cylindrical main body 720, and no opening is provided for discharging gas from the top side of main body 720. Slit-shaped openings 725 that serve as exhaust ports are provided on the side surface of main body 720 over the entire circumferential direction.

[0153] Heat dissipation fins 752 have a configuration in which a large number of fins extend along axis C from base portion 752B that contacts Peltier module 751, and face intake fan 730. A circular partition member 736 is provided between intake fan 730 and heat dissipation fins 752. Casing 735, which has a rectangular cross section and surrounds intake fan 730, has a plurality of support portions that extend and connect to partition member 736.

[0154] When power is supplied to temperature adjustment device 700 via cable 780, intake fan 730 rotates in the direction of drawing in outside air. The outside air drawn into garment 1 is discharged through opening 725 provided on the side of main body 720. No opening is provided on the top of main body 720 for sending the drawn outside air toward the body, and therefore outside air is not discharged from the top side of main body 720.

[0155] In temperature adjustment device 700 of the present embodiment, the top of main body 720 is constituted by heat transfer body 760. The contact surface of heat transfer body 760 with Peltier module 751 is larger than the contact surface of Peltier module 751 with heat transfer body 760. In addition, the exposed surface on the top side of heat transfer body 760 is also larger than the contact surface of Peltier module 751 with heat transfer body 760. Therefore, an even greater cooling sensation can be imparted to the wearer.

[0156] On the other hand, because outside air is not discharged to the top side of the main body 720, the wearer feels the coolness caused by the Peltier effect through their innerwear or underwear, while also feeling a cool, refreshing sensation from the outside air flowing through the clothing. By receiving different cooling effects in different ways physically, there is no physiological discomfort.

[0157] Furthermore, the temperature adjustment device 700 is larger than a conventional Peltier cooling unit, and therefore heavier. In particular, the cooling module 750, which is heavier, is located at the top of the main body, so the center of gravity is biased toward the top of the main body. Therefore, when the wearer moves, the entire heat transfer body 760 easily adheres to the innerwear, underwear, or skin. This effectively provides a feeling of coolness. Furthermore, because the heat transfer body 760 easily adheres to the skin, the temperature adjustment device 700 remains stable relative to the garment 1 even when the wearer moves slightly.

[0158] The drawn-in outside air does not flow out from the top side of the main body 720, but only from the opening 725 on the side. The outside air is discharged along the vertical direction of the body according to the airflow volume of the intake fan 730, so the air flows smoothly around the collar of the wearer, increasing the airflow volume and providing a refreshing feeling.

[0159] Furthermore, the drawn-in outside air flows around partition member 736 and flows out through opening 725 of main body 720. Partition member 736 prevents the outside air from flowing toward heat dissipation fins 752, and the outside air does not stagnate near heat dissipation fins 752. Therefore, the drawn-in outside air is not heated by the heat of Peltier module 751 emitted from heat dissipation fins 752, and cool air can be smoothly sent into garment 1.

[0160] In this way, temperature adjustment device 700 is a device that functions as both the Peltier cooling unit and the clothing fan, and is realized with a simple structure that combines the parts that make up the clothing fan with a Peltier module. Therefore, it is only necessary to provide a conventional clothing fan mounting hole on the clothing.

[0161] The temperature control device described above has technical features that are different from the conventional Peltier cooling unit and the temperature control device described above.

[0162] Conventional Peltier cooling units require dedicated mounting holes different from clothing fans, which requires more sewing work on the garment. Furthermore, the size of the device itself depends on the size of the Peltier module equipped with the Peltier element, which prevents the cooling effect from being fully realized.

[0163] The temperature control device includes an intake fan, a cylindrical body that houses the intake fan and has openings on the sides and bottom, a Peltier module that has a Peltier element and faces the intake fan, and a heat transfer body that contacts the Peltier module.

[0164] The main body has an engaging portion that can be attached to the mounting hole of the clothing fan. The engaging portion can be configured, for example, by a flange formed on the bottom of the main body and a ring that can be screwed onto the side of the main body.

[0165] The heat transfer body forms the top of the body. The contact surface of the heat transfer body with the Peltier module is larger than the contact surface of the Peltier module with the heat transfer body. The exposed surface of the top side of the heat transfer body is also larger than the contact surface of the Peltier module with the heat transfer body.

[0166] The top of the main body does not have an opening for passing the inhaled outside air and discharging it toward the body. For example, the heat transfer body is circular and has a size that covers almost the entire top of the cylindrical main body (at least 80% or more). When attached to the mounting hole, the outside air drawn in by the intake fan is discharged through the opening on the side of the main body.

[0167] For example, a partition member 736 can be provided between the intake fan and the heat dissipation fins of the Peltier module. [Explanation of symbols]

[0168] 1 clothing 2. Outerwear 3. Innerwear 5R1, 5R2 clothing fans 10 Peltier cooling unit 20 Main Unit 30 Heat dissipation fan 50 Cooling Module 51 Peltier module 52 Heat dissipation fin 60 Heat Transfer Material 70 Battery 80 Power Cable 82 Trunk Cable 84, 86 Branch cable for clothing fan 88 Branch 90 Operation section 92 Branch cable for Peltier cooling unit 92A Battery side branch cable 92B Peltier cooling unit branch cable 94 Power Control Unit 400' Peltier Cooling Unit 420' body 421' body flange part 422' Bottom of main body 424' locking part 425' mounting part 440' ring 442' locking surface 500 Temperature control device 520 main unit 550 Cooling Module 551 Peltier module 552A Heat Conduction Fin 552B Heat dissipation fin 530A heat dissipation fan 530B Cooling Fan 600 Peltier Cooling Unit 620 main unit 620R tapered section 640 Ring 700 Temperature control device (clothing fan) 720 main unit 720R air intake 725 Opening (exhaust port) 730 intake fan 736 Partition material 750 Cooling Module 751 Peltier Module 752 Heat dissipation fin 752 base 760 Heat Transfer Material

Claims

1. Intake fan and a cylindrical body that houses the intake fan, has an intake port formed on a bottom surface, and has an exhaust port formed on a side surface; a Peltier module including a Peltier element and housed in the main body; a heat transfer body in contact with the Peltier module, the heat transfer body has a contact surface facing the intake fan and in contact with the Peltier module, and an exposed surface constituting a top portion of the main body, A clothing fan, characterized in that the size of the contact surface and the exposed surface is larger than the size of the surface of the Peltier module that contacts the heat transfer body.

2. the exposed surface is circular, The intake fan is disposed coaxially with respect to the main body, 2. The clothing fan according to claim 1, wherein the diameter of the exposed surface is larger than the diameter of the intake fan.

3. 2. The clothing fan of claim 1, wherein the exposed surface is parallel to the contact surface.

4. 2. The clothes fan according to claim 1, wherein the cooling plate occupies 80% or more of the top of the main body.

5. 2. The clothing fan according to claim 1, further comprising: a heat dissipation fin extending from a base portion in contact with the Peltier module toward the intake fan; and a partition member provided between the heat dissipation fin and the intake fan.

6. A clothing fan according to any one of claims 1 to 5, Clothing to which the clothing fan can be attached; A fan-equipped garment comprising:

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