Method and apparatus for controlling temperature

Abstract

To provide an improved active wearable device that actively operates to enhance the thermal comfort of the wearer. The device (100) may include a thermal regulation device, such as a controller (140) in electrical communication with one or more thermoelectric materials (110) positioned proximate the surface of the skin. The device (100) may generate a series of thermal pulses at the surface to provide an extended thermal sensation to the user. The thermal pulses are characterized by thermal reversibility, where each pulse includes an initial temperature adjustment followed by a return temperature adjustment, but over a short period of time (e.g., less than 120 seconds). The average rate of change of temperature between the initial and return temperatures may be between about 0.1°C / sec and about 10.0°C / sec. In some cases, the average rate of change of the initial temperature adjustment is greater in magnitude than the average rate of change of the return temperature adjustment.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to methods and apparatus for manipulating the temperature of a surface.

Background Art

[0002] To maintain a space within a comfortable temperature range inside a home, an office, a building, and other enclosed areas, a significant amount of energy is used annually by a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system. Despite the significant amount of energy being consumed, thermal discomfort remains a major cause of dissatisfaction within the building environment, which is mainly due to a large variation in personal preferences. In many cases, an indoor space that is considered to be optimally adjusted only seems to satisfy about 80% of the occupants at a given time. Conventional HVAC cannot provide the spatial and temporal variations in temperature necessary for an individual occupant to perceive comfort, concentration, and productivity in their individual environment.

[0003] Existing wearable devices for temperature regulation are generally passive in that they do not generate or absorb heat and simply serve to insulate the wearer from the external temperature. Despite the rapid advancement in the field of active wearable devices, which include watches, accelerometers, motion sensors, etc., there is a gap in the understanding of wearable devices that actively operate to enhance the thermal comfort of the wearer.

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] A method and device for manipulating the temperature of a surface are provided.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] In an exemplary embodiment, a device for manipulating surface temperature is provided. The device includes at least one thermoelectric material configured and set to be positioned in close proximity to the surface. The device also includes a controller in electrical communication with the at least one thermoelectric material, configured to cause the at least one thermoelectric material to generate a thermal pulse in a region of the at least one thermoelectric material in close proximity to the surface, the thermal pulse comprising a first temperature adjustment in the region of the at least one thermoelectric material in close proximity to the surface, from a first temperature to a second temperature, with a first average rate of change between about 0.1°C / sec and about 10.0°C / sec, and a second temperature adjustment in the region of the at least one thermoelectric material in close proximity to the surface, from a second temperature to a third temperature, with a second average rate of change between about 0.1°C / sec and about 10.0°C / sec, wherein the magnitude difference between the first and third temperatures is less than 25% of the magnitude difference between the first and second temperatures.

[0006] In another exemplary embodiment, a method for manipulating the temperature of a surface is provided. The method includes the steps of positioning a region of at least one thermoelectric material in close proximity to a surface, and generating a thermal pulse in the region of at least one thermoelectric material in close proximity to the surface. The step of generating the thermal pulse includes the steps of adjusting the temperature in the region of at least one thermoelectric material in close proximity to the surface from a first temperature to a second temperature at a first average rate of change between about 0.1°C / sec and about 10.0°C / sec, and adjusting the temperature in the region of at least one thermoelectric material in close proximity to the surface from a second temperature to a third temperature at a second average rate of change between about 0.1°C / sec and about 10.0°C / sec, wherein the magnitude difference between the first and third temperatures is less than 25% of the magnitude difference between the first and second temperatures.

[0007] In yet another embodiment, a device for manipulating surface temperature is provided. The device includes a thermal regulator configured and set to be positioned in close proximity to the surface, the thermal regulator configured to generate thermal pulses for a period of less than 120 seconds in a region of the thermal regulator in close proximity to the surface, the thermal pulses including a first temperature regulation in the region of the at least one thermoelectric material in close proximity to the surface, from a first temperature to a second temperature, with a first average rate of change between approximately 0.1°C / second and approximately 10.0°C / second, and a second temperature regulation in the region of the at least one thermoelectric material in close proximity to the surface, from a second temperature to a third temperature, with a second average rate of change between approximately 0.1°C / second and approximately 10.0°C / second, wherein the magnitude difference between the first and third temperatures is less than 25% of the magnitude difference between the first and second temperatures, and the magnitude of the first average rate of change is greater than the magnitude of the second average rate of change.

[0008] In yet another embodiment, a method for manipulating the surface temperature is provided. The method includes the steps of positioning a region of a thermal conditioning device in close proximity to the surface, and generating a thermal pulse in the region of the thermal conditioning device in close proximity to the surface for a period of less than 120 seconds. The step of generating the thermal pulse includes the steps of adjusting the temperature in the region of the thermal conditioning device in close proximity to the surface from a first temperature to a second temperature at a first average rate of change between approximately 0.1°C / second and approximately 10.0°C / second, and adjusting the temperature in the region of the thermal conditioning device in close proximity to the surface from a second temperature to a third temperature at a second average rate of change between approximately 0.1°C / second and approximately 10.0°C / second, wherein the magnitude difference between the first and third temperatures is less than 25% of the magnitude difference between the first and second temperatures, and the magnitude of the first average rate of change is greater than the magnitude of the second average rate of change.

[0009] The various embodiments of this disclosure offer several advantages. Not all embodiments of this disclosure share the same advantages, nor do embodiments that share the same advantages share those same advantages under all conditions. The various embodiments described herein can be used in combination to provide further advantages.

[0010] Further features and advantages of this disclosure, along with the configurations of various embodiments thereof, will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0011] The attached drawings are not intended to be drawn to a specific scale. For clarity, not all elements are labeled in every drawing. [Figure 1A] Figure 1A shows a perspective view of a device for controlling the temperature of a surface to be attached by a user, according to one set of embodiments. [Figure 1B] Figure 1B shows a perspective view of the device shown in Figure 1A. [Figure 1C] Figure 1C shows a bottom view of the device shown in Figures 1A and 1B. [Figure 2] Figure 2 shows a perspective view of another device for manipulating surface temperature, relating to one set of embodiments. [Figure 3] Figure 3 shows a perspective view of yet another device for manipulating surface temperature, relating to one set of embodiments. [Figure 4A] Figure 4A is a schematic diagram of a thermal pulse generated by a device according to one set of embodiments. [Figure 4B] Figure 4B is a schematic diagram of another thermal pulse generated by a device relating to one set of embodiments. [Figure 5A] Figure 5A is a schematic diagram of yet another thermal pulse generated by a device relating to one set of embodiments. [Figure 5B] Figure 5B is a schematic diagram of another thermal pulse generated by a device relating to one set of embodiments. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of a sequence of thermal pulses generated by a device according to one set of embodiments. [Figure 7] Figure 7 shows an example of an electrical signal applied to a device according to one set of embodiments. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is an illustrative plot of the relative changes in surface temperature in response to a set of voltage profiles applied to a device according to one embodiment. [Figure 9] Figure 9 is an illustrative plot of relative changes in surface temperature in response to another set of voltage profiles applied to a device according to one embodiment. [Figure 10] Figure 10 is an illustrative plot of surface temperature against a series of thermal pulses generated by two devices according to one embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0012] A method and apparatus for manipulating surface temperature are provided. This disclosure relates to a device comprising one or more thermoelectric materials, or other suitable thermal conditioning device, placed near a surface such as a user's skin. The device may be configured to generate a series of continuous thermal pulses on the surface. When properly applied, these thermal pulses enhance the user's thermal sensation and, in some cases, provide the user with a more comfortable thermal experience than when there are no thermal pulses.

[0013] As further described herein, a thermal pulse may include transient, reversible temperature changes on a surface, where the temperature changes from an initial temperature to another temperature, followed immediately by a return temperature change from the other temperature back to the initial temperature, or to a temperature close to the initial temperature, all of which occur over relatively short periods (e.g., 120 seconds or less).

[0014] For example, a thermal pulse can move a temperature from a first temperature to a second temperature (e.g., 0.1-10.0°C / It may include the first temperature adjustment on the surface at an average rate of change per second, and the second temperature adjustment on the surface from the second temperature to the third temperature (for example, at an average rate of change of 0.1 - 10.0 °C per second). In such a heat pulse, the magnitude difference between the first temperature and the third temperature may be less than 25% of the magnitude difference between the first temperature and the second temperature. Further, in some cases, the magnitude of the first average rate of change may be greater than the magnitude of the second average rate of change.

[0015] Under conventional use, thermoelectric materials or other temperature adjustment devices for heating or cooling generally operate under a steady state, i.e., under a constant applied temperature and / or electrical signal mode, to maintain the use on a long - time scale of heating or cooling. For example, these conventional methods are usually used in hot or cold pack compression therapy, where it is desirable to maintain the same temperature for a long time. On the other hand, the embodiments of the present disclosure include generating a substantially reversible and transient heat pulse, which can result in a continuous heat stimulus to the human skin.

[0016] In a certain way, for example, by generating a heat pulse according to a specific temperature profile, the inventors unexpectedly recognized that the temperature can be varied on the surface of the human skin to improve the heating or cooling effect for an individual. This improved thermal effect can be more clearly perceived by an individual when the temperature pulses reversibly up and down on the surface in a short period (for example, 120 seconds or less, 30 seconds or less), compared to when the temperature gradually changes from one temperature to another at the surface over a longer period (for example, several minutes or more). That is, when exposed to the heat pulse according to the embodiment of the present disclosure, the perceived intensity of this heating and / or cooling effect can be much greater in magnitude and can be compared to the actual change in temperature that can be applied in a steady state.

[0017] By generating a suitable series of thermal pulses in human skin, with or without some variation between pulses, skin thermoreceptors can be continuously stimulated. The inventors have found that thermoreceptors tend to adjust in response to heating and / or cooling on the skin surface, becoming less sensitive to initial stimuli as they become accustomed to the direct environment. This is similar to the desensitization of skin to contact with external stimuli such as clothing, or to other stimuli to which the senses can become accustomed.

[0018] In particular, the inventors have found that by generating thermal pulses on the surface of human skin having a specific combination of parameters such as the rate of temperature change, the magnitude of the temperature change, and the pulse duration, as described in detail herein, the adaptive desensitization effect is reduced or diminished, and the cooling and / or heating sensing effect is further improved. Compared to the desensitization that may occur in a room being cooled or heated, the device described herein can continuously provide the user with an improved thermal experience, such as a comfortable feeling of cooling and / or heating, according to the user's preference. As described above, in the manner in which the thermal pulses are generated, when the device is operating, the user may experience, i.e., feel, a greater perceived temperature sensation on the surface of the skin in comparison to the actual magnitude of the temperature change of the device.

[0019] In one embodiment, the thermal conditioning device includes one or more thermoelectric materials that can be positioned in close proximity to the user's skin. For example, an electrical signal may be applied to the thermoelectric material to manipulate the surface temperature of the skin in the form of a single thermal pulse and / or a series of successive thermal pulses. However, of course, any suitable thermal conditioning device may be employed. For example, a laser power device, a convection thermal device, or any other suitable device capable of generating a series of thermal pulses may be employed.

[0020] In various embodiments, individual thermal pulses generated by the device may last for a period of 120 seconds or less (e.g., 1–30 seconds) and may include a first initial temperature adjustment from a first (initial) temperature to a second (pulsed) temperature in a region of the thermoelectric material (or a suitable thermal conditioning device) near the surface, and a second return temperature adjustment from the second (pulsed) temperature to a third (return) temperature in the region near the surface.

[0021] In some embodiments, the first temperature adjustment includes a heating step, and the second temperature adjustment includes a cooling step. Conversely, when the first temperature adjustment includes a cooling step, the second temperature adjustment may include a heating step. That is, a thermal pulse may be characterized by an initial temperature fluctuation, followed by a return to a temperature at the surface that is substantially the same as or close to the initial temperature. For example, the magnitude difference between the first (initial) temperature and the third (return) temperature may be 25% or less of the magnitude difference between the first (initial) temperature and the second (pulsed) temperature.

[0022] Each of the first and second temperature adjustments can be characterized by an average rate of change between approximately 0.1°C / second and approximately 10.0°C / second. However, in some cases, the magnitude of the average rate of change of the first temperature adjustment is greater than the magnitude of the average rate of change of the second temperature adjustment. The period during which the surface near the thermal adjustment device thermally relaxes or adjusts from the second (pulsed) temperature to the third (return) temperature may be longer than the period during which the surface first steps up from the first (initial) temperature to the second (pulsed) temperature.

[0023] As described above, according to various embodiments, the temperature profile of the skin surface extends the thermal experience given to a person, resulting in an augmentation of the sensation of heating or cooling they experience. For example, if the ambient temperature is colder than desired, the user can set the device to an appropriate heating mode in which a series of heat pulses generated on the surface of the user's skin make the user feel warmer in that environment. Conversely, in an uncomfortably hot ambient environment, the user can set the device to an appropriate cooling mode in which heat pulses are generated on the surface of the skin in which the user feels cooler. For each of the heating and cooling modes, the user can also adjust various parameters (e.g., magnitude of temperature change, rate of change, duration of individual pulses, steady-state temperature, etc.) based on their preference.

[0024] As mentioned above, existing HVAC systems generally require a considerable amount of energy to heat or cool commercial buildings. Embodiments of the present disclosure are estimated to reduce energy consumption related to HVAC use by a considerable amount. For example, if an office building with 1,000 people is equipped with the devices described herein, it will consume only 5 kWh per day, compared to 200 kWh required to adjust a specific area of ​​the building by 1°C. Furthermore, the methods and devices described herein can provide users with personalized control over their level of thermal comfort. By providing a more localized method of control over personal thermal comfort, an office building is estimated to be able to save up to 40% of its HVAC energy use through a generally reduced HVAC load.

[0025] The term thermoelectric material is given its usual technical meaning and refers to a material in which a temperature change is generated at the surface of the material when an electrical potential (e.g., voltage or corresponding current) is applied, according to thermoelectric effects (e.g., known by other names such as the Peltier, Thomson, and Siebeck effects). Any suitable thermoelectric material may be used, several of which are listed below. While this specification describes thermoelectric materials, this disclosure is not limited to thermoelectric materials, and other thermal control devices may be used as appropriate.

[0026] Figures 1A to 1C show embodiments of a device 100 that includes a thermoelectric material 110 configured to be positioned in close proximity to the surface of the user's skin 102 during use. Further, as will be described below, the device may include multiple thermoelectric materials positioned on the skin surface. The device 100 may also include a thermal conductor material 120 (e.g., a heat sink) positioned on the thermoelectric side opposite the skin, covering the thermoelectric material 110.

[0027] Furthermore, as described below, the thermal conductor material 120 can dissipate heat to and from the thermal conductor material as desired. The thermal conductor material may include any suitable material such as metals (e.g., aluminum, copper, stainless steel, etc.), thermal conductor polymers, porous ceramics, or other suitable materials.

[0028] However, in some embodiments, as will be further described below and illustrated in Figures 2-3, a thermal insulating material, rather than a thermal conductor, may be placed on the thermoelectric side opposite the skin, covering the thermoelectric material. As will also be described herein and shown in Figure 10, covering the thermoelectric material with a thermal insulating material can enhance the effect of thermal pulses on the skin surface.

[0029] Naturally, it is not required that the thermoelectric material be covered by a thermal conductor or thermal insulating material. For example, the heat dissipation device may be positioned at a distance from the thermoelectric material, or in close proximity to it, without covering it. Alternatively, the thermal conductor or thermal insulating material may be provided to cover a portion of the thermoelectric material.

[0030] To apply an appropriate signal to the thermoelectric power supply (e.g., a battery, plug-in outlet, etc.) and the controller (140) in order to manipulate the temperature on the skin surface, the thermoelectric power supply may be connected to a power supply (130) and a controller (140). In some cases, the controller may have one or more inputs and / or outputs for adjusting the user control of the device in an appropriate and beneficial manner.

[0031] Each element of the device, namely the thermoelectric material 110, the thermal conductor material 120, the power supply 130, and the controller 140, can be appropriately held together by a suitable band 150. In some cases, it is preferable that the band 150 is flexibly adjustable so that the thermoelectric material 110 is comfortably and appropriately positioned against or near the surface of the skin, and so that the thermal pulses generated by the thermoelectricity can effectively provide the user with a comfortable thermal sensation. However, in some embodiments, the band 150 exhibits relatively rigid mechanical behavior and provides support for the entire device. Naturally, the band 150 may have any suitable structure, and in some cases may have a stylish form such that the device can be worn as a bracelet, anklet, necklace, etc. The band may include, but is not limited to, any suitable material such as metal, plastic, rubber, leather, artificial leather, or a combination thereof.

[0032] Naturally, the thermoelectric material may be placed in direct proximity to the surface of the user's skin; however, according to the embodiments of this disclosure, the thermoelectric material is not required to be in direct contact with the user's skin. For example, a further layer (not shown) may be placed between the thermoelectric material and the surface of the skin. For example, a conductive or insulating layer, a protective layer, a support layer (for example, for further comfort), or another suitable material.

[0033] Figures 2-3 show that device 100 includes a thermal insulating material 122 covering the thermoelectric material and positioned on the thermoelectric side facing the skin. As a result, the thermal insulating material 122 substantially maintains the level of heat generated by the thermoelectric material, which is positioned on the surface of the skin. In some cases, as will be further described below, the thermal insulating material enhances the effect of the thermal pulses generated by the thermoelectric material. The thermal insulating material may include any suitable material, such as polymers, plastics, elastomers (e.g., rubber, neoprene, etc.), and / or other suitable materials. Such insulating materials are also useful for devices that are less bulky and more flexible than, for example, a larger heat sink being positioned to cover the thermoelectric material. Thus, by covering the thermoelectric material with a suitable insulating layer, such as neoprene, other rubbers, or cloth or textile-based materials, the device can be made easier to wear. For some embodiments, the thermoelectric material may be exposed to air without a cover or other positioned material.

[0034] In one embodiment, device 100 may include multiple thermoelectric materials. For example, as shown in Figures 2-3, instead of a single thermoelectric material, device 100 may include multiple small thermoelectric materials 110A, 110B, 110C, and 110D arranged in close proximity to one another. The thermoelectric materials 110A, 110B, 110C, and 110D in Figures 2-3 may be dimensioned and positioned to adjust the bending of the device, for example, around the wrist or other parts of the body. Similar to a watch with small, rigid components (e.g., metal parts) that connect to each other, the multiple thermoelectric materials are relatively small and may be positioned to allow for the flexibility and overall wearability of the wristband 150. Thus, the relatively small thermoelectric materials may be arranged to conform to the curvature of a certain body part. Thus, the thermoelectric materials and the wristband allow the device to be adjustable and therefore snugly fitted to the user.

[0035] The device may include any appropriate number of thermoelectric materials. For example, the device may include two or more, three or more, four or more, five or more, ten or more, etc. The thermoelectric materials may be arranged along the surface of the device, for example, in rows, in a grid-like form, in an irregular pattern, to form a specific shape (e.g., ellipse, circle, quadrilateral, hexagon, etc.), in any appropriate pattern, or configured as otherwise appropriate. It is preferable that the thermoelectric materials are arranged in very close relative proximity to each other so that the thermoelectric clusters can generate thermal pulses appropriately, for example, more concentrated thermal pulses at the surface, and elicit a more pronounced response than when the thermoelectrics are further apart from each other.

[0036] In some cases, thermal insulating materials can be electrically connected to one another. For example, thermoelectric materials may be arranged to have series electrical connections to one another. Thus, an electrical signal applied to one thermoelectric material may also be applied to the others to which that electrical material is connected. Alternatively, thermoelectric materials may be electrically isolated from one another and may be independently stimulated by a controller with electrical signals appropriately tailored for each individual thermoelectric material, for example, at a suitable opportunity, magnitude, and / or rate, as desired.

[0037] In some embodiments, although not shown, the device may be incorporated into a fabric (e.g., clothing). For example, in some embodiments, a scarf, necklace, armband, wristband, or any other suitable attachment may incorporate the device as described herein. In some embodiments, the size of the device may be selected so that the device fits comfortably at the wrist, ankle, inside clothing, within the user's palm, or otherwise.

[0038] As described above, the device may include a thermoelectric material and a controller that electrically communicates with other appropriate thermal control devices. In one embodiment, the controller is configured to apply a series of electrical signals to the thermoelectric material to generate thermal pulses in a region of the thermoelectric material near the surface. In some cases, as further described below, the controller may be configured to generate a series of thermal pulses in the thermoelectric material (for example, in a region of the thermoelectric material near the surface of the user's skin). For example, in one embodiment, the thermoelectric material may generate at least one, at least two, at least five, at least ten, at least twenty, at least fifty, at least one hundred, at least two hundred, at least three hundred, at least four hundred, or at least five hundred thermal pulses in succession. Naturally, the device may be configured to operate continuously, as there is no limit to how many thermal pulses can be generated on the surface of the skin.

[0039] In one embodiment, as described above, the controller may be electrically connected to each of the thermoelectric materials independently. As a result, the controller may be configured to cause two or more thermoelectric materials to generate two or more thermal pulses that are independent of and distinct from each other. For example, the first thermoelectric material may generate a first thermal pulse, and the second thermoelectric material may generate a second thermal pulse. Naturally, the various characteristics of the individual thermal pulses may be the same or different. In one embodiment, the individual thermal pulses may be generated substantially simultaneously. On the other hand, in one embodiment, the first thermal pulse and the second thermal pulse may be generated at different times. Alternatively, as described above, the controller may be configured to cause the thermoelectric materials to generate a plurality of individual thermal pulses in sequence in any suitable pattern.

[0040] As described herein, in one embodiment, the controller is configured to cause a thermoelectric material to generate multiple appropriate time-varying temperature profiles on the surface of human skin in order to enhance the temperature sensation provided to the user. This temperature sensation can be tailored to provide the user with a greater degree of thermal comfort and pleasure. If we are not bound by theory, in some cases the use of multiple thermal pulses may be particularly effective in applying continuous thermal stimulation to the thermoreceptors on the skin, compared to applying thermal conditioning over a longer steady-state period. As mentioned above, the use of thermal pulses can provide a continuous level of stimulation, thereby reducing the possibility of the thermoreceptors becoming desensitized to thermal fluctuations. As a result, such thermal pulses can allow the user to experience an overall enhanced perceived thermal sensation. Thus, by appropriately modulating and / or adjusting the thermal pulses, the user's overall thermal comfort, or perceived comfort, can be manipulated as desired.

[0041] In accordance with the embodiments of this disclosure, the device may be configured to generate thermal pulses having appropriate features. For example, the thermal pulse may include a thermal change that is substantially reversed over a short period of time (e.g., in a region of the thermoelectric material near the surface temperature of the skin). In one embodiment, as described above, the thermal change includes a first temperature adjustment of the surface from a first initial temperature to a second pulsed temperature, followed by a second temperature adjustment of the surface from the second pulsed temperature to a third return temperature. In some cases, as described above, in harmony with the thermally reversible pulse, the magnitude difference between the first and third temperatures may be 25% or less of the magnitude difference between the first and second temperatures.

[0042] Figures 4A to 5B show schematic examples of thermal pulses that may include multiple regimes in some cases. As illustrated, a thermal pulse may include a first regime I, a selective second regime II, and a third regime III.

[0043] In various embodiments, the first regime I may include an initial temperature adjustment at the surface from a first temperature T1 to a second temperature T2. A selective second regime II may include a slight change in surface temperature from the second temperature T2 to a modified second temperature T2'. A third regime III may include a subsequent temperature adjustment at the surface from the second temperature T2 or a modified second temperature T2' (illustrated) to a third temperature T3.

[0044] As shown in the schematic diagrams of Figures 4A to 5B, the first temperature T1 and the third temperature T3 on the surface are shown as the same, but of course, the first temperature T1 and the third temperature T3 may be different, but this is not important. For example, the third temperature T3 may be greater than or less than the first temperature T1, and the difference between the first and third temperatures may be less than or even less than 25%. Of course, the regime described herein is merely an example of a thermal pulse profile, and other profiles with different behavior and / or regimes may be possible.

[0045] As described above, for the example shown, the selective second regime II may include further adjustments of the second temperature T2 to the modified second temperature T2'. Figures 4A to 5B show the (initial) second temperature T2 and the modified second temperature T2' as the same, but of course, the second temperature T2 and the modified second temperature T2' may be different, as will be further explained below. For example, the modified second temperature T2' may be greater than or less than the (initial) second temperature T2. Alternatively, the modified second temperature T2' may occur during the selective second regime (not at the end) so that the temperature profile within this regime range can be nonlinear. That is, the maximum surface temperature during a thermal pulse may occur once in the middle of the selective second regime.

[0046] As described herein, the controller may be configured to apply an electrical signal to a thermoelectric material to form a thermoelectric, i.e., a suitable temperature profile on the surface of the skin. For illustrative purposes, Figures 4A to 5B also show the corresponding electrical signals (i.e., a voltage applied over a specific period of time, which may have any suitable profile and are not limited to those shown in the figures). The electrical signals may be applied from the controller to the corresponding thermoelectric material, and variations thereof are described in more detail below.

[0047] In one embodiment, a device (e.g., a controller electrically communicating with a thermoelectric material) may be configured to generate thermal pulses that produce a thermal experience perceived by the user. That is, the user may feel a sensation of heating (e.g., locally heated on the surface to which the thermal pulse is applied, or on other areas of the body), while the actual body temperature is roughly maintained. Such thermal pulses may include an increase in temperature on the surface of the user's skin (e.g., in an area of ​​thermoelectric material near the surface of the skin) and a decrease in temperature on the skin surface over a short period (e.g., less than 30 seconds, less than 10 seconds). As illustrated, Figures 4A and 4B schematically show a thermal pulse generated on the skin surface, where the second temperature T2, T2' is greater than the first temperature T1 and the third temperature T3.

[0048] Conversely, in one embodiment, the device may be configured to generate cooling pulses that induce a cooling effect perceived by the user. In this case, similar to a heating experience, the user may feel a cooling sensation locally or in other areas of the body, while the actual body temperature is roughly maintained. The cooling pulse involves a decrease in temperature on the surface of the user's skin, followed immediately by an increase in temperature. Figures 5A and 5B schematically show the cooling pulses generated on the skin surface, where the second temperature T2, T2' is smaller than the first temperature T1 and the third temperature T3.

[0049] The surface temperature can fall within any suitable range. For example, the first temperature T1 may be room temperature (e.g., ambient temperature) or normal body temperature (e.g., resting temperature). In one embodiment, the first temperature T1 is about 0°C or higher, about 5°C or higher, about 10°C or higher, about 15°C or higher, about 20°C or higher, about 22°C or higher, about 23°C or higher, about 24°C or higher, about 25°C or higher, about 27°C or higher, about 29°C or higher, about 30°C or higher, about 32°C or higher, about 34°C or higher, about 35°C or higher, about 36°C or higher, about 37°C or higher, about 38°C or higher, or about 40°C or higher. In one embodiment, the first temperature T1 is approximately 45°C or less, approximately 40°C or less, approximately 38°C or less, approximately 37°C or less, approximately 36°C or less, approximately 35°C or less, approximately 34°C or less, approximately 32°C or less, approximately 30°C or less, approximately 29°C or less, approximately 27°C or less, approximately 25°C or less, approximately 24°C or less, approximately 23°C or less, approximately 22°C or less, approximately 20°C or less, approximately 15°C or less, approximately 10°C or less, or approximately 5°C or less. Combinations of the above reference ranges (e.g., between approximately 22°C and approximately 29°C, between approximately 34°C and approximately 38°C, etc.) are also possible. Other temperatures are also possible.

[0050] The magnitude difference between two temperatures (for example, between the first initial temperature and the second pulsed temperature, or between the second pulsed temperature and the third return temperature) can fall within a reasonable range. In some cases, T2 is greater than T1, and the magnitude difference is determined by subtracting T1 from T2 and taking the magnitude of the difference. If T1 is greater than T2, the magnitude difference is determined by subtracting T2 from T1 and taking the magnitude of the difference.

[0051] In one embodiment, the magnitude of the difference between the second (pulsed) temperature T2 or the modified second (pulsed) temperature T2' (both far from the first temperature T1) and the first (initial) temperature T1 is between approximately 1°C and approximately 10°C. As mentioned above, it is naturally not required to reach the modified second temperature T2' at the end of the selective second regime II. That is, in some cases, the modified second temperature T2' can be characterized as the temperature within the range of the profile furthest from the initial temperature T1. In one embodiment, the magnitude difference between the first temperature T1 and either of the second temperatures T2 or T2' with a larger value is approximately 1°C or more, approximately 1.2°C or more, approximately 1.4°C or more, approximately 1.5°C or more, approximately 1.6°C or more, approximately 1.8°C or more, approximately 2°C or more, approximately 2.5°C or more, approximately 3°C or more, approximately 4°C or more, approximately 5°C or more, approximately 6°C or more, approximately 7°C or more, approximately 8°C or more, or approximately 9°C or more. In one embodiment, the magnitude difference between the first temperature T1 and either of the second temperatures T2 or T2' with a larger value is approximately 10°C or less, approximately 9°C or less, approximately 8°C or less, approximately 7°C or less, approximately 6°C or less, approximately 5°C or less, approximately 4°C or less, approximately 3°C or less, approximately 2.5°C or less, approximately 2°C or less, approximately 1.8°C or less, approximately 1.6°C or less, approximately 1.5°C or less, approximately 1.4°C or less, or approximately 1.2°C or less. Combinations of the above reference ranges are also possible (for example, between approximately 1°C and 10°C, between approximately 1°C and 8°C, between approximately 2°C and 8°C, between approximately 1°C and 7°C, between approximately 1°C and 6°C, between approximately 1°C and 3°C, etc.). Other temperatures are also possible.

[0052] The foregoing discussion regarding possible magnitude differences between the first and second temperatures may also apply when considering magnitude differences between the second temperatures T2, T2' and the third temperature T3. For example, in one embodiment, the magnitude difference between the second temperature T2 or the modified second temperature T2' (whichever is further from the first temperature T3) and the third temperature T3 may fall between about 1°C and about 10°C, within the aforementioned range, or in other ranges outside the disclosed range.

[0053] In one embodiment, the third temperature T3 of the skin surface (at the end of the thermal pulse) can approximate the first temperature T1 of the skin surface (at the beginning of the thermal pulse). As mentioned above, naturally, in some examples, the first temperature T1 of the skin surface before the application of the thermal pulse may be greater than or less than the third temperature T3 of the skin surface after the application of the thermal pulse.

[0054] In one embodiment, the third (return) temperature T3 varies from the first (initial) temperature T1 by a relatively small amount. For example, the difference in magnitude between the first temperature T1 and the third temperature T3 on the skin surface may be about 10°C or less, about 8°C or less, about 6°C or less, about 4°C or less, about 2°C or less, about 1°C or less, about 0.8°C or less, about 0.5°C or less, about 0.2°C or less, or about 0.1°C or less, or outside the aforementioned ranges.

[0055] In one embodiment, the third (return) temperature T3 deviates from the first (initial) temperature T1 by a small percentage relative to the difference between the first temperature T1 and any of the second (pulsed) temperatures T2 or T2' that are further away from the first temperature T1. For example, the magnitude difference between the first (initial) temperature T1 and the third (return) temperature T3 on the skin surface is 25% or less of the magnitude difference between the first (initial) temperature T1 and the second (pulsed) temperatures T2 or T2', and is determined by the formula (T3-T1) / (T2-T1)×100%, or the formula (T3-T1) / (T2'-T1)×100%. The choice between the two formulas depends on which of the temperature differences, T2 and T1 or T2' and T1, is larger in magnitude. If the magnitude of T2-T1 is greater than the magnitude of T2'-T1, the former formula is used. On the other hand, if the magnitude of T2-T1 is smaller than the magnitude of T2'-T1, the latter equation is used. In some cases, the magnitude difference between the first (initial) temperature and the third (return) temperature may be about 25% or less, about 20% or less, about 15% or less, about 10% or less, about 5% or less, about 2% or less, or about 1% or less of the magnitude difference between the first (initial) temperature and the second (pulsed) temperature.

[0056] In some embodiments, the first and third temperatures are approximately equal (i.e., reversible thermal pulses), and they may occur during steady-state operation of the device. Naturally, the third temperature T3 can be determined when temperature regulation between the second temperature T2, T2' and the third temperature T3 stops (e.g., when the temperature at the skin surface reaches a substantially steady state, or when a new pulse begins). For example, in some embodiments where the controller is configured to cause the thermoelectric material to generate multiple thermal pulses in succession, the third temperature T3 can be determined when the next thermal pulse begins. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the third temperature T3 can be determined when the temperature reaches a substantially steady state (e.g., when the third temperature does not change in magnitude by more than about 5% over a period of 5 seconds).

[0057] Naturally, the device can adjust the temperature on the skin surface to vary during various regimes of thermal pulses, according to a suitable shape or profile. For example, at a given point in time between thermal pulses, the temperature profile may exhibit behavior that is substantially linear, nonlinear, exponential (e.g., exponentially increasing, exponentially decreasing), nonnominal (e.g., quadratic, cubic), irregular (e.g., following a piecewise function), or other appropriate behavior.

[0058] Referring to Figures 4A to 5B, in some embodiments, the first regime I of the thermal profile may exhibit substantially linear behavior. That is, in these embodiments, the controller may be configured to apply an electrical signal (e.g., a square wave voltage) that results in a substantially linear temperature profile over the first regime I. However, other temperature profiles are, of course, also possible.

[0059] In some embodiments, a third regime III of the temperature profile may also exhibit substantially linear behavior, as shown in Figures 4A and 5A. That is, in some embodiments, a thermal pulse generated by a thermoelectric material or other thermal conditioning device may be characterized by at least a portion of the temperature conditioning on the skin surface exhibiting substantially linear behavior over time between one of a second temperature T2, T2' and a third temperature T3.

[0060] However, in some embodiments, the temperature regulation at the skin surface between one of the second temperatures T2, T2' and the third temperature T3 may exhibit substantially nonlinear behavior over time. For example, as shown in Figures 4B and 5B, at least one of the temperature regulation at the skin surface from a thermal pulse between the second temperatures T2, T2' and the third temperature T3 may exhibit substantially exponential decay behavior over time. "Exponential decay" roughly refers to a situation where the parameter (e.g., temperature) is T(t) = T0e -λt This refers to behavior that reasonably fits equations such as the following, where T(t) is the temperature at a given time t, T0 is the initial temperature, and λ is a constant.

[0061] According to the embodiments of this disclosure, the duration of individual thermal pulses can be varied as appropriate. The user's enhanced temperature sensation and overall thermal comfort depend at least on the duration of a particular thermal pulse, which can be tailored as appropriate. That is, in some cases, thermal pulses that are too long or too short may not provide the user with the desired level of thermal sensation. The duration can be measured as the time elapsed between thermal cycles on the skin surface from a first temperature T1 to a third temperature T3, as shown in Figures 4A to 5B. For example, as shown in Figure 6, the duration can be measured as the difference between time t1 at the start of the first pulse and time t2 at the start of the second pulse.

[0062] In one embodiment, a thermal control device, or a controller configured to apply an electrical signal to a thermoelectric material, can generate a thermal pulse for a period of about 120 seconds or less. In one embodiment, the total duration of the thermal pulse (the difference between the initial and final temperatures of the pulse can be ignored), from an initial temperature to another pulsed temperature and back to substantially the initial temperature, is about 90 seconds or less, about 75 seconds or less, about 60 seconds or less, about 50 seconds or less, about 45 seconds or less, about 40 seconds or less, about 30 seconds or less, about 20 seconds or less, about 15 seconds or less, about 10 seconds or less, about 7 seconds or less, about 5 seconds or less, about 4 seconds or less, about 3 seconds or less, about 2 seconds or less, or about 1 second or less. In one embodiment, the duration of the thermal pulse is approximately 2 seconds or more, approximately 3 seconds or more, approximately 4 seconds or more, approximately 5 seconds or more, approximately 6 seconds or more, approximately 7 seconds or more, approximately 10 seconds or more, approximately 15 seconds or more, approximately 20 seconds or more, approximately 30 seconds or more, approximately 40 seconds or more, approximately 50 seconds or more, approximately 60 seconds or more, approximately 75 seconds or more, or approximately 90 seconds or more. Combinations of the above reference ranges (for example, between approximately 2 seconds and approximately 5 seconds, between approximately 3 seconds and approximately 10 seconds, between approximately 10 seconds and approximately 30 seconds, between approximately 10 seconds and approximately 60 seconds, or between approximately 15 seconds and approximately 90 seconds, etc.) are also possible. Other ranges are also possible.

[0063] Within the range of the thermal pulse, the initial temperature adjustment of the thermal pulse (e.g., regime I shown in Figures 4A-5B and 8-9, a period during which the temperature on the skin surface undergoes a sharp, continuous increase or decrease) may continue for an appropriate duration. In some embodiments, the initial temperature adjustment of the thermal pulse may continue for approximately 60 seconds or less, approximately 60 seconds or less, approximately 50 seconds or less, approximately 40 seconds or less, approximately 35 seconds or less, approximately 30 seconds or less, approximately 25 seconds or less, approximately 20 seconds or less, approximately 15 seconds or less, approximately 10 seconds or less, approximately 5 seconds or less, approximately 4 seconds or less, approximately 3 seconds or less, or approximately 2 seconds or less. The duration of the initial temperature adjustment of the thermal pulse is approximately 1 second to approximately 30 seconds, approximately 1 second to approximately 10 seconds, approximately 2 seconds to approximately 5 seconds, or approximately 2.5 seconds to approximately 4 seconds. Other ranges are also possible.

[0064] The temperature adjustment of the return thermal pulse (e.g., regime III shown in Figures 4A-5B and 8-9, the period during which the temperature on the skin surface undergoes a gradual increase or decrease to return to the initial temperature) may continue for an appropriate duration. In some embodiments, the temperature adjustment of the return thermal pulse may continue for a duration of approximately 60 seconds or less, approximately 60 seconds or less, approximately 50 seconds or less, approximately 40 seconds or less, approximately 30 seconds or less, approximately 20 seconds or less, approximately 10 seconds or less, or approximately 5 seconds or less. The duration of the temperature adjustment of the return thermal pulse is between approximately 1 second and approximately 60 seconds, approximately 1 second and approximately 5 seconds, approximately 2 seconds and approximately 3 seconds, approximately 5 seconds and approximately 30 seconds, approximately 5 seconds and approximately 20 seconds, or approximately 5 seconds and approximately 10 seconds. Other ranges are also possible.

[0065] The temperature control of a thermal pulse can exhibit an appropriate rate of temperature change over time. In some embodiments, the temperature control (e.g., temperature control from a first initial temperature to a second pulsed temperature, from the second pulsed temperature (or a selectively modified second pulsed temperature) to a third return temperature, or selective temperature control from the second temperature to a modified second temperature) occurs over a specific period.

[0066] In some embodiments, the first temperature adjustment (e.g., the thermal change on the initial pulse between the first initial temperature and the second pulsed temperature) occurs over a shorter period than the second temperature adjustment (e.g., the thermal change on the return between the second pulsed temperature (or the selectively modified second pulsed temperature) and the third return temperature). That is, in some embodiments, the magnitude of the average rate of change of the first thermal adjustment at the start of the thermal pulse may be greater than the magnitude of the average rate of change of the second thermal adjustment at the end of the thermal pulse.

[0067] As described herein, the magnitude of the average rate of change can be determined by calculating the magnitude difference between temperature limits (e.g., the magnitude of the difference between the first initial temperature and the second pulsed temperature for the first adjustment, and the magnitude of the difference between the second pulsed temperature and the third return temperature for the second adjustment), and dividing this magnitude difference between temperature limits by the time over which the temperature is adjusted. For example, when applying a cooling pulse, if the duration of the first temperature adjustment at the beginning of the pulse is 5 seconds, and the first initial temperature is 28°C and the second pulsed temperature is 23°C, then the magnitude of the average rate of change in temperature in this portion of the pulse is 1°C / second. In the same cooling pulse example, if the duration of the second temperature adjustment at the return of the pulse is 10 seconds, and the second pulsed temperature is 23°C and the third return temperature is 28°C, then the magnitude of the average rate of change in temperature in this portion of the pulse is 0.5°C / second.

[0068] In various embodiments, the average rate of change of the first temperature adjustment at the beginning of the thermal pulse, between the first initial temperature and the second pulsed temperature, may be in the range of approximately 0.1°C / second and approximately 10.0°C / second. In one embodiment, the average rate of change of the temperature adjustment at the beginning of the thermal pulse is approximately 0.1°C / second or more, approximately 0.2°C / second or more, approximately 0.3°C / second or more, approximately 0.5°C / second or more, approximately 0.7°C / second or more, approximately 1.0°C / second or more, approximately 1.5°C / second or more, approximately 2.0°C / second or more, approximately 3.0°C / second or more, approximately 5.0°C / second or more, or approximately 7.0°C / second or more. In one embodiment, the average rate of change of temperature adjustment in the initial stages of a thermal pulse is approximately 10.0°C / sec or less, approximately 7.0°C / sec or less, approximately 5.0°C / sec or less, approximately 3.0°C / sec or less, approximately 2.0°C / sec or less, approximately 1.5°C / sec or less, approximately 1.0°C / sec or less, approximately 0.7°C / sec or less, approximately 0.5°C / sec or less, approximately 0.3°C / sec or less, or approximately 0.2°C / sec or less. Combinations of the above reference ranges are also possible (for example, between approximately 0.1°C / sec and approximately 10.0°C / sec, between approximately 0.1°C / sec and approximately 5.0°C / sec, between approximately 0.3°C / sec and approximately 3.0°C / sec, between approximately 0.3°C / sec and approximately 1.0°C / sec, between approximately 0.3°C / sec and approximately 0.8°C / sec, between approximately 0.5°C / sec and approximately 3.0°C / sec, etc.). Other ranges are also possible.

[0069] When the thermal pulse returns, the average rate of change of the second temperature adjustment between the second pulse temperature and the third return temperature can fall within the same range as that of the first temperature adjustment. For example, the average rate of change of the second temperature adjustment when the thermal pulse returns can be in the range between approximately 0.1°C / second and approximately 10.0°C / second. In various embodiments, the average rate of change of the temperature adjustment of the return temperature of the thermal pulse is 0.1°C / second or more, approximately 0.2°C / second or more, approximately 0.3°C / second or more, approximately 0.5°C / second or more, approximately 0.7°C / second or more, approximately 1.0°C / second or more, approximately 1.5°C / second or more, approximately 2.0°C / second or more, approximately 3.0°C / second or more, approximately 5.0°C / second or more, or approximately 7.0°C / second or more. In one embodiment, the average rate of change of temperature adjustment during the return of the thermal pulse is approximately 10.0°C / sec or less, approximately 7.0°C / sec or less, approximately 5.0°C / sec or less, approximately 3.0°C / sec or less, approximately 2.0°C / sec or less, approximately 1.5°C / sec or less, approximately 1.0°C / sec or less, approximately 0.7°C / sec or less, approximately 0.5°C / sec or less, approximately 0.3°C / sec or less, or approximately 0.2°C / sec or less. In addition to the above combinations of reference ranges, other ranges are also possible.

[0070] As described herein, the average rate of change of temperature at the beginning of a pulse may be greater in magnitude than the average rate of change of temperature at the return of the pulse. The magnitude of the average rate of change of the first temperature adjustment is at least 10%, at least 20%, at least 30%, at least 40%, at least 50%, at least 60%, at least 70%, or at least 80% greater than the magnitude of the average rate of change of the second temperature adjustment. In some embodiments, compared to embodiments where the first average rate of change is less than or equal to the second average rate of change of temperature adjustment, the user may experience an overall increase in thermal sensation, and thus an extended level of thermal comfort.

[0071] The inventors recognize that by generating thermal pulses that encompass the aforementioned range of average rate of change of temperature and the difference in rate of change at a given location within the thermal pulse, the effect of the thermal pulse can be extended, and the level of local thermal comfort for the average user can be increased. This is in stark contrast to the use of large-scale heating or cooling systems (e.g., HVAC), which are non-local and longer-lasting heating or cooling systems (cold packs, hot packs, etc.) that cannot provide the desired thermal sensation.

[0072] As mentioned above, the thermal control device may include a controller that applies appropriate electrical signals to the thermoelectric material to generate appropriate thermal pulses. The electrical signals may include appropriate steps of increasing / decreasing voltage, current, etc.

[0073] In one embodiment, the controller includes a voltage source for generating an appropriate electrical signal. In one embodiment, the voltage source applies a voltage to a thermoelectric material suitable for generating a thermal pulse on the surface of the user's skin. For example, as shown in Figures 4A to 5B, the controller may be configured to apply a first voltage V1, a second voltage V2, and / or a third voltage V3. However, other voltages may be applied according to any appropriate signal pattern. For example, instead of applying a constant voltage, the electrical signal may employ pulse width modulation, in which case the pulse width is modulated according to an appropriate duty cycle (e.g., 10-50% duty cycle) to modulate (convert) the power supplied to the device, for example. In some cases, pulse width modulation may be applied using an appropriate duty cycle with a relatively short time scale (>100 Hz). Any appropriate form of pulse width modulation may be employed.

[0074] In some cases, whether the applied potential is positive or negative corresponds to whether a heating pulse or a cooling pulse is desired. For example, Figures 4A and 4B correspond to a heating pulse, in which case the applied voltage increases the temperature at the skin surface. Figures 5A and 5B, in contrast, correspond to a cooling pulse, in which case the applied voltage decreases the temperature at the skin surface. However, naturally, a heating or cooling pulse can include both positive and negative voltages applied to a thermoelectric material (e.g., via pulse width modulation, where the voltage is pulsed with an appropriate duty cycle). The average magnitude of the voltages applied to the thermoelectric material at any given point (e.g., a first voltage, a second voltage, a third voltage) can fall within a suitable range. For example, the average magnitude of the voltage applied to the thermoelectric material may be between approximately 0.1V and 10.0V, between approximately 1.0V and 8.0V, between approximately 2.0V and 5.0V, between approximately 0.1V and 5.0V, between approximately 0.1V and 1.5V, between approximately 0.1V and 1.0V, between approximately 1.0V and 3.0V, between approximately 3.0V and 8.0V, or any other appropriate range. In some cases, as shown in Figures 4A to 5B, the average magnitude of the first voltage may be greater than the individual average magnitudes of subsequent voltages (e.g., second voltage, third voltage, etc.) applied between thermal pulses to form a sharp temperature adjustment on the skin surface from a first initial temperature to a second pulsed temperature. As further shown, the average magnitude of the applied step voltage allows for thermal reversibility of the thermal pulse, for example, by dropping off to a second voltage V2 and a third voltage V3, resulting in a gentler return.

[0075] As shown in the figure, the third voltage is given by the absence of an applied electrical signal and is inherently shown as zero. In some cases, the average magnitude of the third voltage V3 may be substantially non-zero, for example, smaller than the average magnitude of the first voltage V1 and / or the average magnitude of the second voltage V2. Naturally, in some embodiments, a voltage (e.g., a step voltage) may be applied in the reverse direction (e.g., a negative voltage on the return after an initial positive voltage of the pulse) to elicit a sharper temperature change during the return portion of the thermal pulse. For example, in some embodiments, the first voltage V1 applied to the thermoelectric material may be positive (e.g., during the heating pulse) and the second voltage V2 may be negative (to sharply decrease the temperature on the skin surface), or conversely, the first voltage V1 applied to the thermoelectric material may be negative and the second voltage V2 may be positive.

[0076] Figures 8-9 show multiple temperature measurements on a thermoelectric surface. As shown in these figures, the voltage applied during the second regime II of the thermal pulse is varied by its magnitude (shown in Figure 8) and duration (shown in Figure 9). This demonstrates the possibility of controlling and varying the thermal pulse generated on the skin surface as desired. Thus, the temperature profile of the thermal pulse can be tailored to suit the user's thermal requirements. For example, as shown herein, any suitable voltage profile can, of course, be applied to the thermoelectric material according to any suitable pattern.

[0077] Figure 8 shows a group of waveforms where the duration of application of a selective second voltage V2 is constant, and the magnitude of the applied second voltage V2 varies. In this example, waveform 200 corresponds to the case where no second voltage V2 is applied (i.e., the applied second voltage V2 is zero), and waveform 210 corresponds to the case where the second voltage V2 is the maximum in the group. As shown in the figure, when the second voltage V2 is effectively zero, the temperature slows down according to exponential decay, as if a single square wave V1 were applied. However, when a non-zero second voltage V2 is applied, the surface temperature can still increase, although not as sharply as when the initial voltage V1 is applied. When the second voltage V2 is no longer applied, the temperature profile exhibits a gradual decay behavior.

[0078] As shown in Figure 9, the magnitude of the selective second voltage V2 was kept constant, while the duration of the second applied voltage V2 was varied. In this example, the time interval between the second applied voltage V2 and the third applied voltage V3 varied between 0 seconds and approximately 10 seconds. As shown, waveform 300 corresponds to the case where the second voltage V2 was not applied (applied for 0 seconds), and waveform 310 corresponds to the case where the second voltage V2 was applied for the longest period in the group (applied for 10 seconds). As shown, if the second voltage V2 is applied for a longer period, the temperature on the surface may continue to increase or remain fluctuating around a particular temperature range. Furthermore, when the application of the second voltage V2 is stopped, the temperature on the surface decays and returns to the initial temperature.

[0079] In one embodiment, the controller includes a current source to generate an appropriate electrical signal. The current source may apply current to a thermoelectric material to generate a thermal pulse on the surface of the user's skin. The magnitude of the current applied to the thermoelectric material at any given point may fall within a suitable range. In one embodiment, the magnitude of the current applied to the thermoelectric material may be between approximately 0.1A and approximately 4.0A, between approximately 0.1A and approximately 3.5A, between approximately 0.1A and approximately 3.0A, between approximately 0.2A and approximately 2.5A, between approximately 0.5A and approximately 2.0A, between approximately 1.0A and approximately 2.0A, between approximately 0.1A and approximately 1.5A, between approximately 0.1A and approximately 1.0A, between approximately 0.5A and approximately 1.0A, between approximately 0.1A and approximately 0.5A, between approximately 1.0A and approximately 1.5A, or any other suitable range. An electrical signal can be applied to a thermoelectric material in any appropriate form or pattern. In one embodiment, the electrical signal is applied to the thermoelectric material as one or more rectangular waves (i.e., a constant voltage / current applied over a period of time), which, depending on how the electrical signal is applied, can be a specific rate of change of temperature. Alternatively, the electrical signal may exhibit more complex behavior; for example, it may be applied as a linear ramp function, nonlinear, exponential, polynomial function, piecewise function, etc.

[0080] As shown in Figures 4A to 5B, in one embodiment, to initiate a thermal pulse, a first rectangular wave voltage is applied to the thermoelectric material, as shown in regime I, resulting in a sharp linear temperature adjustment at the skin surface from a first temperature T1 to a second temperature T2. In regime II, a second rectangular wave voltage is applied, but its magnitude is smaller than that of the first rectangular wave, resulting in a relatively constant, very small change in the skin surface temperatures T2 and T2'. In regime III, no voltage is applied, resulting in a temperature adjustment to a third temperature T3, which differs from the first initial temperature T1 by only a small amount / percentage.

[0081] As described herein, in various embodiments, the sensation of heating or cooling can be enhanced by generating a series of asymmetric thermal pulses on the surface of the user's skin (thermal pulses having an average rate of change at the start that is greater than the average rate of change at the return). In some embodiments, steady-state operation of the device may also include generating a series of thermal pulses in succession. That is, the temperature profiles of the continuously generated thermal pulses may be substantially the same during steady-state operation.

[0082] However, in some embodiments, it may be beneficial to generate transient thermal pulses, which may be suitable for enhancing the user's thermal sensation and / or thermal comfort, and / or for avoiding desensitization to temperature changes. For example, in some embodiments, the duty cycle of the applied signal may vary. In some embodiments, to provide the user with a smooth transition to a steady-state operating mode, the average baseline of the electrical signal may gradually increase or gradually decrease as desired, as shown in Figure 7. During transient operation, the average baseline signal may be adjusted as desired. In some cases, transient operation (i.e., when the device is first started, or when more / less power is applied to the thermoelectrics at a given time) may allow for an increased amount of cooling or heating on the surface (e.g., more than the device can dissipate by design) for a temporary period.

[0083] In one embodiment, the controller may apply an electrical signal to the thermoelectric material according to an appropriate duty cycle. The well-known term duty cycle is roughly the percentage of time the electrical signal is active. In various embodiments, the electrical signal applied to the thermoelectric material by the controller may exhibit a duty cycle of about 10%, more than 10%, more than 20%, more than 30%, more than 40%, or more than 50% between about 10% and about 50%. In one embodiment, the duty cycle applied by the controller may be about 50% or less, about 40% or less, about 30% or less, about 20% or less, or about 10% or less. It may also be a combination of the above ranges (e.g., between about 10% and about 50%).

[0084] As will be understood by those skilled in the art, the specific range of electrical signals (i.e., voltage, current) is not limiting and may vary as appropriate, at least in part, depending on the overall configuration of the device, the specific materials selected (e.g., thermoelectric materials, the number of thermoelectric materials), the inherent resistances of the various components inside the device, or other forms that may contribute to the function of the device.

[0085] As mentioned above, the thermal conditioning portion of the device may include one or more thermoelectric materials. In some embodiments, the thermoelectric material is preferably for generating a rapid, reversible thermal transient signal (i.e., a thermal pulse). Not limited examples of suitable thermoelectric materials include p-type and n-type doped semiconductor materials, bismuth chalcogenite (e.g., Bi2Te3, Bi2Se3), lead selenide, S i -G e Alloys, skutterdite (e.g., chemical formula LM4X) 12 The columns may include a column of any other suitable thermoelectric material (where L is a rare metal, M is a transition metal, and X is a metalloid), or any other suitable thermoelectric material.

[0086] The thermoelectric material may have any suitable thickness. For example, in one embodiment, the thickness may be selected so that the thermoelectric material can be comfortably held against the wrist, arm, leg, ankle, neck, or any other suitable part of the human body. In one embodiment, the thickness of each thermoelectric material may be between about 1 millimeter and about 5 millimeters (for example, between about 1 millimeter and about 3 millimeters). Other thicknesses are also possible.

[0087] In one embodiment, each of the thermoelectric materials, or a module containing thermoelectric materials, may have a maximum average cross-sectional dimension between about 10 mm and about 4 cm (for example, between about 30 mm and about 500 mm). Other average cross-sectional dimensions are also possible. Those skilled in the art can select an appropriate size for the thermoelectric material based on the configuration of the device.

[0088] Thermoelectric materials, or modules thereof, may be provided in any suitable configuration. For example, a module may include a thermoelectric material sandwiched between ceramic plates to provide thermal conductivity to the surface of the skin, and, in some cases, for protection and support.

[0089] Returning to Figures 2-3, in one embodiment, the device may include a thermal insulating material 122 positioned to cover the thermoelectric material 110. In one embodiment, during use, the thermoelectric material may be positioned between the thermal insulating material and the surface of the skin. The thermal insulating material may be effective in maintaining the level of heating (or cooling) generated by the thermoelectric material in the vicinity of the surface.

[0090] In some embodiments, a thermal insulating material can increase the overall magnitude of temperature change in response to a given electrical signal compared to the use of a thermal conductive material. As a result, incorporating a thermal insulating material can generate stronger or extended thermal pulses, which can, for example, increase the user's overall perception of temperature change and / or reduce power consumption by the device.

[0091] Figure 10 shows a series of thermal heating pulses, illustrating the application of electrical signals to a thermoelectric material covered with a thermal insulating material (e.g., neoprene) in contrast to a thermoelectric material covered with a thermal conductive material (e.g., aluminum, other metals). For devices incorporating thermal insulating materials, the temperature regulation regime is more pronounced than for devices incorporating thermal conductive materials. Specifically, the rate of temperature change is more rapid for devices incorporating thermal insulating materials. Furthermore, the average magnitude of the temperature increase is also greater for devices containing thermal insulating materials.

[0092] However, in some embodiments, it is preferable for the device to incorporate a thermally conductive material for, for example, heat dissipation of the generated heating or cooling. For example, it is desirable to be able to switch quickly between heating and cooling modes. Therefore, if heat can be dissipated, residual heating or cooling may be reduced.

[0093] Any suitable dissipation unit can be used, for example, a heat sink, a fan, a phase change material, a heat exchanger, or a combination thereof. In one embodiment, the heat dissipation unit has a size and / or weight that can be comfortably mounted on the device and, similarly, on the wrist, as shown in Figures 1A to 1C.

[0094] As described above, in some embodiments, the device includes a suitable power supply. The power supply may include one or more batteries, photocells, or any other suitable components. Non-limiting examples of suitable batteries include lithium polymer, lithium ion, nickel-cadmium, nickel-metal hydride, etc., with a battery life of approximately 100 to approximately 100 mAh. In some cases, the battery may output a constant voltage, and the controller may be configured to generate a time-varying voltage profile by applying an appropriate degree of pulse width modulation.

[0095] The device may also be configured to use relatively low voltages compared to HVAC systems and other localized electronic heat sources such as heaters and fans.

[0096] In some embodiments, the device may include one or more sensors configured to collect information in a region of thermoelectric material near its surface. Any suitable sensor, such as a temperature sensor (e.g., a thermistor, thermocouple), a humidity and / or water vapor sensor, a barometer, etc., in any appropriate configuration, may be employed. In some embodiments, the device may include one or more sensors to monitor the temperature on the surface of the thermoelectric material and / or skin. For example, if the temperature measured on the surface of the thermoelectric material and / or skin exceeds or falls below a desired temperature, the sensor may transmit a signal to the controller, which may adjust the applied electrical signal (e.g., by applying a negative (or lower) voltage to lower the temperature, or a positive (or higher) voltage to raise the temperature) to obtain a suitable temperature profile.

[0097] In some embodiments, a temperature sensor may be incorporated into the controller to monitor the controller's temperature. In some embodiments, one or more temperature sensors may be positioned in direct proximity to one or more surfaces of the thermoelectric material. In some embodiments, a temperature sensor may be configured to detect the ambient temperature. In some embodiments, the temperature sensor may measure the temperature difference across different components of the device (e.g., between the skin surface and the thermoelectric material, or between the thermoelectric material and the ambient air). In some embodiments, the temperature sensor may be configured with a controller that operates according to a feedback loop (e.g., to avoid overheating or cooling the device and / or to maintain the surface temperature within a suitable range).

[0098] The device may include wireless capabilities that enable appropriate communication with other devices / systems, for example, to control the shape of the device, or to control / monitor the temperature on the surface of the skin, providing desired, further control characteristics. Wireless devices are generally well known and may include, in some cases, Wi-Fi and / or Bluetooth® systems.

[0099] While several forms of at least one embodiment of this disclosure have been described, various modifications, alterations, and improvements will naturally be readily apparent to those skilled in the art. In some embodiments, the device may be used in therapeutic applications. For example, the device may be used to alleviate transient fever (e.g., during pregnancy, menopause) or to provide thermal comfort in humid or dry environments. These modifications, alterations, and improvements are intended to be part of this disclosure and within the spirit and scope of this disclosure. Accordingly, the foregoing descriptions and drawings are illustrative only. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0100] 100... Devices, 102... Skin, 110... Thermoelectric materials, 120... Thermal conductor materials, 130... Power supplies, 140... Controllers, 150... Bands.

Claims

1. In a device that manipulates the temperature of the skin surface, A thermal conditioning device comprising a thermoelectric material configured to be worn on the neck or wrist and positioned in close proximity to the skin surface, wherein the thermal conditioning device is configured to generate a series of cooling heat pulses in the region of the thermal conditioning device in close proximity to the skin surface, the thermoelectric material is in contact with a heat conductive material configured to dissipate heat from the thermoelectric material, the heat conductive material is located on a first side of the thermoelectric material opposite to the skin surface, and the second side of the thermoelectric material is in contact with the skin surface, A controller communicating with a thermal control device, the controller is configured to control the generation of the plurality of cooling thermal pulses, the plurality of cooling thermal pulses circulate the temperature of the region between at least a first temperature and a second temperature, the magnitude difference between the second temperature and the first temperature is between 1°C and 10°C, the temperature of the skin surface is adjustable according to the shape of the temperature profile applied between one or more regimes of the plurality of cooling thermal pulses, the average rate of temperature change between the first temperature and the second temperature is between approximately 0.3°C / second and approximately 3.0°C / second, the average rate of temperature change between the second temperature and the first temperature is between approximately 0.1°C / second and approximately 10.0°C / second, the initial temperature adjustment period for each cooling thermal pulse from the first temperature to the second temperature is 30 seconds or less, one or more parameters of the plurality of cooling thermal pulses are adjustable by the wearer, and the one or more parameters further include at least one selected from the group of pulse duration, time between the plurality of cooling thermal pulses, and magnitude of temperature change between pulses, and the controller. including, device.

2. The difference in magnitude between the first temperature and the second temperature is greater than 2°C and less than 8°C. The device according to claim 1.

3. The first temperature is between 22°C and 29°C, and the second temperature is lower than the first temperature. The device according to claim 1.

4. The shape of the temperature profile includes one of the following: linear, nonlinear, exponentially increasing, exponentially decreasing, polynomial, and irregular. The device according to claim 1.

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