Cold water immersion system

Abstract

A portable cold water immersion system for use with a water receptacle. The cold water immersion system includes a chiller assembly having a water inlet, a water outlet, a water circulation pump, a chiller module, and a plumbing arrangement all enclosed within a housing. The chiller module further includes an evaporator, a compressor, a condenser, and a refrigerant circulating therebetween. The plumbing arrangement connects the water inlet to the water pump, the water pump to the chiller module, and the chiller module to the water outlet. The cold water immersion system also includes a water supply assembly that has an intake water line coupled to the water inlet, an outflow water line coupled to the water outlet, and a line retainer. Portions of the line retainer engage and retain each of the intake and outflow water lines.

Description

COLD WATER IMMERSION SYSTEMCROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This nonprovisional patent application claims priority to U.S. provisional patent application no. 63 / 644,141, filed May 8, 2024, and to U.S. provisional patent application no. 63 / 752,230, filed January 31, 2025, the entire contents each of which are herein incorporated by reference.BACKGROUND1. Field of the Invention

[0002] The present invention generally relates to cold water immersion systems, also known as cold plunge or ice bath systems. More specifically, the present invention relates to a portable cold water immersion system.2. Description of Related Art

[0003] Cold water immersion, often in the form of cold plunges or ice baths, is a therapy that involves submerging the body in very cold water for a short period, typically between 5 to 15 minutes depending on one’s experience with this type of therapy. This practice is popular among athletes and fitness enthusiasts for its benefits in reducing muscle soreness and speeding up recovery after intense physical activity.

[0004] Cold water immersion is renowned for its ability to significantly reduce delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS). After intense physical activity, muscles often experience tiny tears, leading to inflammation and soreness. Immersion in cold water helps to constrict blood vessels, which reduces blood flow to the affected areas, thereby minimizing inflammation and swelling. This process can alleviate muscle pain, soreness, and stiffness, and allow athletes to recover more quickly and effectively.

[0005] Another key benefit is the reduction of metabolic activity in the muscles. By lowering the temperature of the muscle tissues, cold water immersion slows down cellular metabolism, which can help to limit the extent of muscle damage and reduce the accumulation of metabolic waste products, such as lactic acid. Again, this can be particularly beneficial after high-intensity workouts as it helps to clear out these waste products more efficiently, reducing muscle fatigue and enhancing overall recovery.

[0006] Cold water immersion therapy also has a positive impact on the nervous system. The cold exposure can stimulate the release of endorphins, which are natural painkillers produced by the body. This can lead to an improved mood and a sense of well-being, which is especially valuable for athletes who are dealing with the physical and mental stress of rigorous training schedules. Additionally, the cold shock can activate the parasympathetic nervous system, promoting relaxation.

[0007] Improved sleep is another significant benefit of cold water immersion therapy. The cold exposure can help to lower the body ’ s core temperature, which is a natural signal for the body to prepare for sleep. This cooling effect can promote deeper and more restful sleep by enhancing the body’s natural sleep-wake cycle. Better sleep quality is crucial for overall recovery and performance, as it allows the body to repair and regenerate tissues. Athletes, and people in general, who incorporate cold water immersion therapy into their routine may find that they fall asleep faster, experience fewer awakenings during the night, and wake up feeling more refreshed and rejuvenated.

[0008] Cold plunges and ice baths are similar in that both involve immersing the body in cold water. There are, however, some key differences. Cold plunges typically use tubs or pools with adjustable temperature settings, usually ranging from 53°F to 60°F (12°C to 16°C). Ice baths, on the other hand, involve filling a tub with actual ice and cold water, often resulting in lower, colder temperatures, for example between 33°F and 39°F (1°C to 4°C). As is apparent from the relative temperature differences, being significantly colder ice baths are generally more intense than cold plunges. Ice baths require the manual addition of ice to maintain their cold temperature. Cold plunge setups, on the other hand, include built-in cooling and filtration systems, making them convenient and easy to use.

[0009] As seen from the above, for home use, cold plunge systems have significant convenience factors over traditional ice bath systems. However, high-quality cold plunge systems can be quite expensive, with specialized tubs and enclosures, ranging well above several thousand dollars. These systems also require significant space for setup and use, which can be challenging for those with limited space at home. Additionally, some cold plunge systems consume a significant amount of electricity as a result of the long time it takes for the system to cool roomtemperature water to the desired therapy temperature, leading to higher utility bills. Setting up a cold plunge system can be complex and time-consuming. Once set up, these systems are generally immovable, unless completely drained and disassembled. Even still, such systems are not designed to be portable, allowing them to be personally transported and used in various locations.

[0010] In view of the enumerated drawbacks and limitations of current cold water immersion systems, the present invention provides a portable cold plunge system.SUMMARY

[0011] In one aspect of the invention, a portable cold water immersion system for use with a water receptacle is provided.

[0012] In another aspect, the cold water immersion system includes a chiller assembly, the chiller assembly including a water inlet, a water outlet, a water circulation pump, a chiller module, and a plumbing arrangement, all enclosed within a housing. The plumbing arrangement connects the water inlet to the water pump, the water pump to the chiller module, and the chiller module to the water outlet. The system also includes a water supply assembly having an intake water line coupled to the water inlet, an outflow water line coupled to the water outlet, and a line retainer. Portions of the line retainer engage and retain each of the intake and outflow water lines. The chiller module also includes an evaporator, a compressor, a condenser, and a refrigerant circulating therebetween. The refrigerant is provided in an amount ranging form about 60 to 100 grams, and the water cooling unit has a cooling capacity capable of cooling 40 gallons (151.42 L) of water from an ambient temperature of 72°F (22.22°C) to a cooled temperature of 45°F (7.22°C) in 150 minutes.

[0013] In still another aspect, the compressor is a DC motor compressor.

[0014] In a further aspect, the compressor is a hermetic compressor.

[0015] In an additional aspect, the compressor has a cooling capacity of 1200 watts.

[0016] In yet another aspect, the chiller module further includes at least one fan configured to provide forced ventilation of the chiller module.

[0017] In still a further aspect, the housing of the chiller module includes at least one vent defined therein.

[0018] In an additional aspect, the housing of the chiller module includes vents on opposed ends of the chiller module.

[0019] In another aspect, the chiller assembly includes a water handling module, the water handling module including the water circulation pump and the plumbing arrangement supported on a frame, the chiller module further including a subframe supporting the evaporator, the compressor, and the condenser.

[0020] In yet a further aspect, the chiller module is supported on the frame of the water handling module.

[0021] In an additional aspect, the chiller module has a first architecture, and the water handling module has a second architecture, the first architecture being complementary of the second architecture.

[0022] In still another aspect, the first and second architectures provide for at least one of axial mounting of the chiller module with the water handling module and lateral mounting of the chiller module with the water handling module.

[0023] In a further aspect, the first and second architectures provide for both axial mounting of the chiller module with the water handling module and lateral mounting of the chiller module with the water handling module

[0024] In another aspect of the invention, the cold water immersion system includes a chiller assembly having a water inlet, a water outlet, a water circulation pump, a chiller module, and a plumbing arrangement all enclosed within a housing. The plumbing arrangement connects the water inlet to the water pump, the water pump to the chiller module, and the chiller module to the water outlet. The system also includes a water supply assembly. The water supply assembly includes an intake water line coupled to the water inlet, an outflow water line coupled to the water outlet, and a line retainer. Portions of the line retainer engage and retain each of the intake and outflow water lines relative to one another. The chiller module defines a first architecture that includes a subframe supporting an evaporator, a compressor, a condenser, and a refrigerant circulating therebetween. A water handling module defines a second architecture that includes a frame supporting the water circulation pump and the plumbing arrangement, the first architecture is complementary of the second architecture.

[0025] In a further aspect, the first and second architectures provide for at least one of axial mounting of the chiller module with the water handling module and lateral mounting of the chiller module with the water handling module.

[0026] In an additional aspect, the first and second architectures provide for both axial mounting of the chiller module with the water handling module and lateral mounting of the chiller module with the water handling module.

[0027] In still another aspect, the first architecture the evaporator and the compressor are provided along a common lateral side of the subframe and the condenser is provided at a longitudinal end of the subframe, and in the second architecture the water circulation pump and the plumbing arrangement are arranged along a common lateral side of the frame, the common lateral side of the subframe being opposed to the common lateral side of the frame.

[0028] In yet a further aspect, the plumbing arrangement includes a first water connection and a second water connection, and the evaporator includes a third water connection and a fourth water connection, the first and second water connections being disposed a one end of the frame, the second and third water connections being disposed at one end of the subframe, and the one end of the frame corresponding with the one end of the subframe when the chiller module is mounted with the water handling module.

[0029] In an additional aspect, the first water connection generally opposes the third water connection and the second water connection generally opposes the fourth water connection when the chiller module is mounted with the water handling module.

[0030] In another aspect, the frame of water supply assembly includes a shelf provided above and extending over the water circulation pump and the plumbing arrangement, the shelf supporting at least one electrical component of the cold water immersion system.

[0031] In still a further aspect, the shelf extends over at least a portion of one or more of the evaporator, the compressor, and the condenser.

[0032] In another aspect of the invention, a cold water immersion system is provided that includes a chiller assembly that having a water inlet, a water outlet, a water circulation pump, a water cooling unit, and a plumbing arrangement, all enclosed within a housing. The plumbing arrangement connects the water inlet to the water pump, the water pump to the water cooling unit, and the water cooling unit to the water outlet. The system also includes a water supply assembly having an intake water line coupled to the water inlet, an outflow water line coupled to the water outlet, and a line retainer. Portions of the line retainer engage and retain each of the intake and outflow water line relative to one another. The cold water immersion system having an in-use configuration and a storage configuration. In the in-use configuration, the water supply assemblyextends away from the chiller assembly and engages the chiller assembly at the water inlet and the water outlet. In the storage configuration, the water supply assembly engages the chiller assembly at portions other than the water inlet and the water outlet.

[0033] In another aspect of the invention, a cold water immersion system is provided that includes a chiller assembly having a water inlet, a water outlet, a water circulation pump, a water cooling unit, and a plumbing arrangement, all enclosed within a housing. The plumbing arrangement connects the water inlet to the water pump, the water pump to the water cooling unit, and the water cooling unit to the water outlet. The system also includes a water supply assembly having an intake water line coupled to the water inlet, an outflow water line coupled to the water outlet, and a line retainer. Portions of the line retainer engage and retain each of the intake and outflow water line relative to one another, at least a portion of the water supply assembly is non- self-supporting and is flexible allowing the water supply assembly to be configured in a storage configuration and an in-use configuration, wherein the storage configuration is different from the in-use configuration. In the storage configuration, at least a portion of the water supply assembly generally conforms to an exterior shape of the housing.

[0034] In another aspect, a portable cold water immersion system is provided for use with a water receptacle and includes a chiller assembly having a water inlet, a water outlet, a water circulation pump, a water cooling unit, and a plumbing arrangement, all enclosed within a housing, The plumbing arrangement connects the water inlet to the water pump, the water pump to the water cooling unit, and the water cooling unit to the water outlet. The system also includes a water supply assembly having an intake water line releasably coupled to the water inlet, an outflow water line releasably coupled to the water outlet, and a line retainer. Portions of the line retainer engage and retain each of the intake and outflow water lines relative to one another. The water supply assembly is non-self-supporting and conformable to a sidewall of the water receptacle during use therewith.

[0035] Various objects, features and advantages of the present invention will become readily apparent to persons skilled in the art after reviewing the following description with reference to the drawings that form a part of this specification.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0036] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a cold plunge system according to the principles of the present invention and shown in a stored configuration.

[0037] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the cold plunge system seen in FIG. 1 and shown in-use with a bathtub.

[0038] FIG. 3 is an enlarged view of the cold plunge system seen in FIG. 2.

[0039] FIGS. 4a - 4c show rear perspective views of the cold plunge system respectively showing a side cover installed, the side cover removed, and the water supply assembly removed from the chiller assembly.

[0040] FIG. 5 is a rear perspective view of the chiller assembly with the supply assembly and cover removed.

[0041] FIG. 6 is another rear perspective view of the chiller assembly as seen in FIG. 5.

[0042] FIG. 7 an exploded view of the main components of the chiller assembly seen inFIGS. 5 and 6.

[0043] FIG. 8 is an enlarged view of the chiller module of the chiller assembly.

[0044] FIG. 9 is a perspective view, from the underside, of the water supply assembly.

[0045] FIG. 10 is an exploded view of the water supply assembly seen in fig 9.

[0046] FIG. 11 is an exploded view illustrating the modular construction and assembly of the chiller assembly.

[0047] FIG. 12 is an exploded view showing one technique for assembly of the chiller module and water handling module.

[0048] FIG. 13 is an exploded view showing another technique for assembly of the chiller module and water handling module.

[0049] FIG. 14 is an exploded view showing assembly of the front and rear covers of the chiller assembly.

[0050] FIG. 15 is an exploded view showing assembly of the housing, side cover and drip tray of the chiller assembly.

[0051] FIG. 16 is an assembled view of the chiller assembly.

[0052] FIG. 17 is a perspective view of the chiller assembly with the drip tray of the assembly in the extended position.

[0053] FIG. 18 is a schematic diagram of the cold plunge system.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0054] As used in the description that follows, directional terms such as “upper” and “lower” are used with reference to the orientation of the elements as presented in the figures. Accordingly, “upper” indicates a direction toward the top of the figure and “lower” indicates a direction toward the bottom of the figure. The terms “left” and “right” are similarly interpreted. The terms “inward” or “inner” and “outward” or “outer” indicate a direction that is generally toward or away from a central axis of the referred to part, whether or not such an axis is designated in the figures. An axial surface is therefore one that faces in a direction along the central axis. A radial surface therefore faces radially, generally away from or toward the central axis. It will be understood, however, that in actual implementation, the directional references used herein may not necessarily correspond with the installation and orientation of the corresponding components or device.

[0055] Referring now to the drawings, FIG. 1 generally illustrates a cold plunge system, designated at 10, embodying the principles of the present invention. The cold plunge system 10 is a portable unit that is designed for use with a personal water receptacle 11 and to quickly provide chilled water at the desired temperature. The system 10, as further discussed below, ensures a consistent and safe cold plunge experience, providing the benefits of cold therapy while maintaining water quality and safety.

[0056] Illustratively and without limitation, an example of such a water receptacle 11 is a bathtub as might be found in a personal residence or other facility providing lodging (e.g., hotel). (For convenience, the water receptacle is hereafter simply referred to as a “tub ”) Notably, the cold plunge system 10 described herein may be used with a tub 11 that is stationary or portable. Accordingly, the tub 11 need not be consider an actual component of the present cold plunge system 10.

[0057] As its principal components, the cold plunge system 10 includes a chiller assembly 12 coupled to a water supply assembly 14.

[0058] The chiller assembly 12 and water supply assembly 14 are shown in combination in FIGS. 1-3, while the chiller assembly 12 (or portions thereof) is shown in isolation in FIGS. 5- 8 and 10 and the water supply assembly 14 and is shown in isolation in FIGS. 9 and 10.

[0059] WATER SUPPLY ASSEMBLY

[0060] Referring now to FIGS. 9 and 10, the water supply assembly 14 includes an outflow water line 16 and an intake water line 18. The water lines 16, 18 are preferably flexible hoses, made of rubber, polyvinyl chloride, high-density polyethylene or a similar material, and are provided with quick-connect fittings 20, 22 on the opposing ends of each water line 16, 18. The outflow water line 16 provide cold water from to the chiller assembly 12 to the tub Hand the intake water line 18 delivers warm water from the tub 11 to the chiller assembly 12 for re-cooling and recirculation back to the outflow line 16.

[0061] At one end, and over a length thereof, the water lines 16, 18 are retained and engaged with a line retainer 24 that is configured to manage the water lines 16, 18 when in either a stored (nonuse) position, a use position associated with the tub 11 or during transition therebetween. In one variation, the line retainer 24 includes a flexible mat or panel section 26, preferably made of silicone rubber (or other flexible material) that allows the line retainer 24 to be draped over the side of the tub 11 and retained in that position during use.

[0062] Provided at one end of the line retainer 24, on an underside 27 of the panel section 26 in the illustrated embodiment, is a manifold 28 that includes quick-connect fittings 30. The quick-connect fittings 30 are complimentary to the quick-connect fittings 22 of the water lines 16, 18 and receive the quick-connect fittings 22 therein, preferably releasable manner. Defined within the manifold 28 are water passageways. The water passageways extend from quick-connect fittings 30 and terminate in nozzles 32, 34 that respectively discharge cold water into the tub 11 and receive warm water from the tub 11. The nozzles 32, 34 may simply be provided as openings at the ends of the passageways or may be separate nozzle structures mounted to the manifold and in fluid communication with water passageways. Preferably, the nozzles 32, 34 are oriented to discharge and receive water in opposite directions from one another. Alternatively, the nozzles 32, 34 may be oriented parallel to one another.

[0063] To secure the manifold 28 to the panel section 26, the manifold 28 may be adhered to the panel section 28 or mechanically secured to the panel section 26. Mechanical securement may involve engagement with retention barbs unitarily formed with the panel section 26 or through engagement with a faceplate 31.

[0064] The length of the line retainer 24 is such that the manifold 28 may be position beneath the level of water within the tub 11.

[0065] The opposing end of the line retainer 24 is provided with features that engage and retain the water lines 16, 18 with the panel section 26 and also manage the water lines 16, 18 during bending and movement of the panel section 26. In one implementation, the retention and management features are provided as a series of parallel flanges 38 unitarily formed with the panel section 28. The flanges 38 extend outward from the underside 27 of the panel section 26 and have a length oriented in a lengthwise direction corresponding with the lengthwise direction of the water lines 16, 18. The flanges 38 are spaced apart a distance generally corresponding to the diameter of the water lines 16, 18 so as to engage and retain each of the water lines 16, 18 between two of the flanges 38. The flanges 38 may also include features, such a projections or nubs, engaging and retaining the water lines 16, 18 within channels defined between the flanges 38.

[0066] Connected in the above-described manner, the water lines 16, 18 extend freely between the flanges 38 and the manifold 28 allowing the water lines 16, 18 to move relative to the panel section 26.

[0067] The panel section 26 may also be provided with standoffs 40 provided on the underside of the panel section 26 at each longitudinal end. The standoffs 40, which may be formed as unitary flanges with the panel section 26 and about a portion of its perimeter, have a height corresponding with or slightly greater than the height of the manifold 28 and / or diameter of the water lines 16, 18. The standoffs 40 operate to space the panel section 26 from the surface of the tub 11 during use (as seen in FIGS. 2 & 3) and from the surface of the chiller assembly 12 during storage of the water supply assembly 14 (as seen in FIGS. 1, 3 & 4) and discussed below.

[0068] CHILLER ASSEMBLY

[0069] The chiller assembly 12 includes a housing 42 enclosing a main power supply 41, a control module 44, a water pump 46, a water fdter 48, a chiller module 50, and a water sanitizer 52 (e.g., ultraviolet light), all supported by a primary frame 54. Wheels may also provide moveability of the chiller assembly 12 and the system 10.1. HOUSING

[0070] The housing 42 includes a shell 56 having an arched or curved top 58 that extends into sidewalls 60 of the assembly 12. One of the sidewalls 60 is provided with a side cover assembly 62 in which are provided outlet and inlet quick-connect fittings 64, 66 that are complimentary to and configured to receive, respectively, the quick-connect fittings 20 of theoutflow and intake water lines 16, 18. Additionally, the side cover assembly 62 includes portion defining a storage recess 68 for the outflow and intake water lines 16, 18 when cold plunge system 10 is not in use. Storage of the outflow and intake water lines 16, 18 is generally seen in the alternate implementation FIGS. 4a & 4b, the former of which includes a side cover 70 over the stored water lines 16, 18 and the entire storage recess 68. In the implementation of FIGS. 5, 6 & 7, the side cover 70 extends partially over the storage recess 68. Also provided in the side cover assembly 62 is an integrated water filter receptacle 72. The filter receptacle 72 is designed to receive the water filter 48, which may be a cartridge style water filter 48.

[0071] The shell 56 additionally includes a front cover 74 and a rear cover 76, both of which are provided with recessed portions 78, 80 at their upper ends and forming handles for lifting and moving the cold plunge system 10. The front and rear covers 74, 76 each may also include vents 79 formed therein for air circulation through the assembly 12, which specifically aids in cooling the compressor 88.

[0072] The front cover 74 is also provided with a user interface 82, coupled to the control module 44, that may include a display and inputs for power, temperature, time, and other controls of the system 10, including wireless control via Wi-Fi, Bluetooth®, or other communication means.

[0073] The primary internal componentry of the chiller assembly 12 is shown in the exploded view of FIG. 7. As mentioned above, this componentry includes, without limitation, a control module 4, a water pump 46, a water filter 48, a chiller module 50, and a water (UV) sanitizer 52.

[0074] CONTROL MODULE AND OPERATION

[0075] Operation of the chiller assembly system 10 is conducted via the user interface 82 and the control module 44. The power supply unit 43 is provided with a power cord (not shown) allowing the system 10 to be plugged into an electrical outlet providing a standard electrical voltage, such as 110-120V (60Hz) or 220-240V (50Hz). The power supply unit 43 includes a power electronics module 98 having an AC / DC converter 100 that provide DC current to the control module 44 and connected components of the system 10, including the water pump 46, chiller module 50, water sanitizer 52, and cooling fans 53 of the system 10.

[0076] The power supply unit 43 is preferably provided on or above a shelf 84 of the frame 54. The shelf 84 divides the internal space of the chiller assembly 12 into “wet” and “dry” zones, respectively below and above the shelf 84. It should be noted that the term “wet” zone does not imply that the zone is in fact wet. Rather it is a designation that water flows between various components of that zone.

[0077] The control module 44 receives control inputs from the user interface 82 and may be integrated into a unit including the user interface 82 or separately on or above the shelf 84 in the dry zone of the system 10. The control module 44 receives the various inputs from the user interface 82 or from wireless communication module 102 incorporating Wi-Fi or Bluetooth ® communication means. Such inputs may operate to enable the control module 102 to control the start (or delayed start) of the system 10, the length of operation via a timer 104, the operation of the chiller module 50 and therefore the temperature of the water exiting chiller assembly 12 via a thermostat 106, the speed of the water pump 46 and therefore the flow rate of water exiting the chiller assembly 12. To achieve the above, the system 10 includes a combination of water flow sensors 108 and water temperature sensors 110. As seen in the schematic diagram of FIG. 18, the water flow and temperature sensors 108, 110 may be provided between the fdter 48 and water pump 46 and / or between water pump 46 and the chiller module 50 and / or between the chiller module 50 and the water sanitizer 52. Safety features, such as an automatic shut-off mechanisms 112, are included to prevent the water temperature from dropping too low or to address any malfunctions in the chiller unit, including tipping over of the chiller assembly 12 via a tip-over sensor 114 and associated switch. Additional sensors 115 may be provided as desired.

[0078] WATER PUMP

[0079] The water pump 46 is preferably a self-priming diaphragm pump. During operation, the pump 46 draws water in from the tub 11 through the intake nozzle 34 and the intake water line 18 of the water supply assembly 14. Water that has been taken in is routed between the various componentry via a plumbing arrangement 85 comprising a series of conduits extending between the componentry. In one configuration, warm water is drawn in and first routed through the water filter 48 and then on to the water pump 46. After filtration, the water is passed by the water pump 46 through a water connection 47.1 to an evaporator 86 of the chiller module 50, where it is cooled.

[0080] CHILLER MODULE

[0081] The chiller module 50 is the heart of the system 10 and is responsible for cooling the circulating water. The chiller module 50 is manufactured as a separate subassembly and includes its own subframe 94 allowing it to slide into lower rails (not shown) of the primary frame 54 and into the housing 42 of the chiller assembly 12. This architecture, discussed further below, allows for compact, modular construction and ease of assembly with simple plumbing and electrical connections between the chiller module 50, the and the remainder of the chiller assembly 12.

[0082] As noted above, some benefits of the present cold plunge system 10 include its portability and high cooling capacity.

[0083] Portability is provided by a compact construction and light weight. In terms of compact construction, the overall dimensions of the present cold plunge system 10 with the water supply system in the stored position are less than 23 inches (58.42 cm) in height by less than 10 inches (25.40 cm) in width by less than 17 inches (43.18 cm) in depth or less than a total of 50 linear inches (127.00 cm). Terms of weight, the overall weight of the cold plunge system 10 is less than 53 pounds (24.04 kg) and preferably less than 50 pounds (22.68 kg). Individually, the chiller assembly 12 has a weight 46 pounds (20.87 kg) or less, preferably 43 pounds (19.5 kg) or less, while the water supply unit 14 has a weight of 7 pounds (3.18 kg) or less. Notably the overall dimensions and weight of the cold plunge system 10 comply with most U.S. and non-U.S airline non-oversize shipping limits.

[0084] In terms of high cooling capacity, as used herein, a high cooling capacity is defined as the ability to cool 40 gallons (151.42 L) of water from an ambient temperature of 72°F (22.22°C) to a cooled temperature of 45°F (7.22°C) in 150 minutes (2.5 hrs).

[0085] In order to achieve higher cooling capacities, common knowledge in cold plunge systems is to simply increase the volume of refrigerant used in the system. Lesser volumes of refrigerant are known to produce lower cooling capacities.

[0086] However, high volumes of refrigerant increase the weight of the system and affect the system’s true portability, both in general terms and the ability of the system to meet air shipping and private flying restrictions. Notably, shipping and flying restrictions also limit the volume of liquid that is permitted. Accordingly, conventional systems may be moveable, but do not have true portability allowing them to be readily shipped or transported, or if having such portability, aresystems with a low cooling capacity system that takes much longer, longer than 150 minutes, to reach the desired temperature of 45°F or less.

[0087] As noted above, the present cold plunge system 10 light weight and has a high cooling capacity, which is defined as the ability to cool 40 gallons (1 1.42 L) of water from an ambient temperature of 72°F (22.22°C) to a cooled temperature of 45°F (7.22°C) in 150 minutes (2.5 hrs). In achieving this high cooling capacity, the chiller module 50 of the cold plunge system 10 utilizes a specific and limited volume of high energy efficient refrigerant.

[0088] Specifically, the refrigerant is refrigerant gas R290 in an amount of between 60 - 100 grams. The upper limit in the amount of refrigerant enables the present system 10 to be personally or commercially shipped via ground transportation while filled with refrigerant. The inventors have found that with less than 60 grams of refrigerant, performance of the system 10 decreases.

[0089] The chiller module 50 includes an evaporator 86, a compressor 88, a condenser 90 and a metering device, such as an expansion valve 92. To achieve the high cooling capacity and operate with the reduced amount of refrigerant, the compressor 88 is a high efficiency compressor, the evaporator 86 that is a high cooling exchange rate heat exchanger / evaporator, and the condenser 90 is a high capacity condenser. The above components may all used in combination with forced air ventilation provided by the fans 53 of the chiller assembly 12.

[0090] The compressor 88 is an extremely high efficiency compressor that delivers a cooling capacity of 1200 watts. More specifically, the compressor 88 is a hermetic DC motor compressor having a power consumption of 360 watts.

[0091] The evaporator 86 is a high cooling exchange rate heat exchanger / evaporator. With a 6L / min flow rate, using R290 as the refrigerant in the system 10 with mass flow rate of between 3-5 g / s, the evaporator 86 has a thermal conductance in the range of about 160-220 W / °C. The condenser 90 is a high performance, high capacity condenser. More specifically, the condenser 90, with a 150-300 CFM airflow at 72°F (22.22°C) ambient temperature and a refrigerant mass flow rate of 3-5 g / s, has a thermal conductance in the range of about 70-85 W / °C.

[0092] Refrigerant enters the refrigerant circuit of the evaporator 86 as a low-pressure liquid. Simultaneously, warm water is circulated to and through the water circuit of the evaporator 86 via the plumbing arrangement 85, water pump 46, water connection 47.1 and water connection 47.2. In the evaporator 86, the refrigerant absorbs heat from the warm water and evaporates intogas causing the water to be cooled. The refrigerant gas is compressed by the compressor 88, increasing its pressure and temperature, and is passed to the condenser 90. In the condenser 90, the refrigerant gas releases heat to the air being forcibly passed through the chiller assembly 12 by operation of the fans 53 and condenses back into a liquid. The liquid refrigerant exits the condenser 90 and passes through the metering valve 92, which lowers its pressure and further cools down the refrigerant, before re-entering the evaporator 86 to repeat the process.

[0093] The filtered water, having been chilled by the evaporator 86, is directed from water circuit of the evaporator 86 via water connection 49.2 to water connection 49.1 of the plumbing arrangement 85, and then though the water sanitizer 52 and back to the tub 11 via the outlet fitting 64, the outflow line 16 and outflow nozzle 32. Alternatively, the water sanitizer 52 may be provided after the water pump 46 and before the evaporator 86, which is illustrated in FIGS. 11- 16.

[0094] USEAGE AND STORAGE OF WATER SUPPLY ASSEMBLY

[0095] As noted above, during use of the cold plunge system 10, the water supply assembly 14 is secured to the tub 11 by simply being draped over the side of the tub 11, as seen in FIGS. 2 & 3. The water supply assembly 14 may also be secured to the tub 11 by various other means, such as suction cups 96, magnets, mechanical connections, combinations of these mechanisms, etc.

[0096] When not in use, the water supply assembly 14 is draped over the housing 42 of the chiller assembly 12. The water supply assembly 14 is configured to allow the same securement means to secure it to the chiller assembly 12. Further, construction of the housing 42 with its arched top 58 allows for the water supply assembly 14, which is non-self-supporting, to be placed over the top of the chiller assembly 12 and stored in the same general manner in which it is placed over and conforms to the side of the tub 11 during usage. The provided curvature of the housing 42 allows the water supply assembly 14, due to the flexibility of the line retainer 24 and water lines 16, 18, to substantially conform to the shape of the housing’s arched top 58 and sidewalls 60 thereby minimizing stress on the water supply assembly 14 and providing a compact construction during non-use of the system 10.

[0097] In alternative implementations, seen in FIGS. 12-18, the water supply assembly 14 may be secured to the chiller assembly by being draped over the housing 42 and retained by various means.

[0098] MODULAR CONSTRUCTION AND ASSEMBLY

[0099] As previously mentioned, the chiller assembly 12 is provided with a modular construction. This allows the modular components to be manufactured in various locations and easily assembled into the chiller assembly 12. These modular components include the chiller module 50, a water handling module 116, and a housing module 118. This modular construction and assembly of the chiller assembly 12 is illustrated in FIGS. 11-16.

[0100] The overall assembly of the chiller assembly is seen FIG. 11 wherein the chiller module 12 illustrates with FIGS. 11 As seen therein, the chiller module 50 is shown as being mounting onto the water handling module 116, and the housing module 118 (comprising the housing 42, front cover 74 and rear cover 76) being mounted thereover and forming an enclosure therearound in conjunction with the sidewall 62 of the water handling module 116.

[0101] As seen in FIG. 12, the architecture of the chiller module 50 and the water handling module 116 allows the chiller module 50 to be axially slid into engagement with the water handling module 116. This is achieved, in one part, by locating the evaporator 86 and compressor 88 along one common longitudinal side of the subframe 94 with the condenser at an axial end of the subframe 94 and, in another part, by locating the water filter 48, water pump 46, water sanitizer 52 along an opposing common longitudinal side of the frame 54. Additionally, the water connections 47.1 and 49.1 of the plumbing arrangement 85 are both located at an axial end of the frame 54. The water connections 47.2 and 49.2 of the evaporator 86 are also position at an axial end of the subframe 94, which positions the water connections 47.2 and 49.2 generally opposite of water connections 47.1 and 49.1 of the plumbing arrangement 85 for easy connection there between.

[0102] This architecture of the chiller module 50 and the water handling module 116, as seen in FIG. 13, also allows the chiller module 50 to be laterally slid into engagement with the water handling module 116.

[0103] It is also noted that the shelf 84 is provided at a height under which the evaporator 86, compressor 88 and condenser 90 may be received, after which the subframe 94 may be secured to the frame 54.

[0104] With the water connections 47.1, 47.2 and 49.1, 49.2 made, the front cover 74 may be mounted to the frame 54 at that same axial end. This leaves one lateral side, an opposed axialend and the top of the assembly 12 open, providing easy access for electrical connection of the controller 44 to the other componentry, as discussed above.

[0105] With the electrical connections of the controller 44 made, the rear cover 76 and housing 42 may be secured to the frame 54 and enclosing the internal components of the chiller assembly 12.

[0106] As seen in FIG 7, 15, 16, and 17, the chiller assembly 12 may also include a drip tray 96, supported by rails 98 provided one of the frame 54 or subframe 94, to collect condensation forming on and produced by the chiller module 50.

[0107] The above description is meant to be illustrative of at least one preferred implementation incorporating the principles of the invention. One skilled in the art will really appreciate that the invention is susceptible to modification, variation and change without departing from the true spirit and fair scope of the invention, as defined in the claims that follow. The terminology used herein is therefore intended to be understood in the nature of words of description and not words of limitation.

Claims

CLAIMSWe claim:

1. A portable cold water immersion system for use with a water receptacle, the cold water immersion system comprising: a chiller assembly, the chiller assembly including a water inlet, a water outlet, a water circulation pump, a chiller module, and a plumbing arrangement all enclosed within a housing, the plumbing arrangement connecting the water inlet to the water pump, the water pump to the chiller module, and the chiller module to the water outlet; a water supply assembly, the water supply assembly including an intake water line coupled to the water inlet, an outflow water line coupled to the water outlet, and a line retainer, portions of the line retainer engaging and retaining each of the intake and outflow water lines; and the chiller module including an evaporator, a compressor, a condenser, and a refrigerant circulating therebetween, the refrigerant being provided in a range of about 60 to 100 grams, and the water cooling unit having a cooling capacity to cool 40 gallons (151.42 L) of water from an ambient temperature of 72°F (22.22°C) to a cooled temperature of 45°F (7.22°C) in 150 minutes.

2. The portable cold water immersion system according to claim 1, wherein compressor is a DC motor compressor.

3. The portable cold water immersion system according to claim 1, wherein the compressor is a hermetic compressor.

4. The portable cold water immersion system according to claim 1, wherein the compressor has a cooling capacity of 1200 watts.

5. The portable cold water immersion system according to claim 1, wherein the chiller module further includes at least one fan configured to provide forced ventilation of the chiller module.

6. The portable cold water immersion system according to claim 5, wherein the housing of the chiller module includes at least one vent defined therein.

7. The portable cold water immersion system according to claim 5, wherein the housing of the chiller module includes vents on opposed ends of the chiller module.

8. The portable cold water immersion system according to claim 1, wherein the chiller assembly includes a water handling module, the water handling module including the water circulation pump and the plumbing arrangement supported on a frame, the chiller module further including a subframe supporting the evaporator, the compressor, and the condenser.

9. The portable cold water immersion system according to claim 7, wherein the chiller module is supported on the frame of the water handling module.

10. The portable cold water immersion system according to claim 8, wherein the chiller module has a first architecture, and the water handling module has a second architecture, the first architecture being complementary of the second architecture.

11. The portable cold water immersion system according to claim 10, wherein the first and second architectures provide for at least one of axial mounting of the chiller module with the water handling module and lateral mounting of the chiller module with the water handling module.

12. The portable cold water immersion system according to claim 10, wherein the first and second architectures provide for both axial mounting of the chiller module with the water handling module and lateral mounting of the chiller module with the water handling module13. A portable cold water immersion system for use with a water receptacle, the cold water immersion system comprising: a chiller assembly, the chiller assembly including a water inlet, a water outlet, a water circulation pump, a chiller module, and a plumbing arrangement all enclosed within a housing, theplumbing arrangement connecting the water inlet to the water pump, the water pump to the chiller module, and the chiller module to the water outlet; a water supply assembly, the water supply assembly including an intake water line coupled to the water inlet, an outflow water line coupled to the water outlet, and a line retainer, portions of the line retainer engaging and retaining each of the intake and outflow water lines relative to one another; and the chiller module including a subframe supporting an evaporator, a compressor, a condenser, and a refrigerant circulating therebetween, the chiller module having a first architecture; a water handling module, the water handling module including a frame, the water circulation pump and the plumbing arrangement, the frame supporting the water circulation pump and the plumbing arrangement, the water handling module having a second architecture; and the first architecture being complementary of the second architecture.

14. The portable cold water immersion system according to claim 13, wherein the first and second architectures provide for at least one of axial mounting of the chiller module with the water handling module and lateral mounting of the chiller module with the water handling module.

15. The portable cold water immersion system according to claim 10, wherein the first and second architectures provide for both axial mounting of the chiller module with the water handling module and lateral mounting of the chiller module with the water handling module.

16. The portable cold water immersion system according to claim 10, wherein in the first architecture the evaporator and the compressor are provided along a common lateral side of the subframe and the condenser is provided at a longitudinal end of the subframe, and in the second architecture the water circulation pump and the plumbing arrangement are arranged along a common lateral side of the frame, the common lateral side of the subframe being opposed to the common lateral side of the frame.

17. The portable cold water immersion system according to claim 10, wherein the plumbing arrangement includes a first water connection and a second water connection, and theevaporator includes a third water connection and a fourth water connection, the first and second water connections being disposed a one end of the frame, the second and third water connections being disposed at one end of the subframe, the one end of the frame corresponding with the one end of the subframe when the chiller module is mounted with the water handling module.

18. The portable cold water immersion system according to claim 17, wherein the first water connection generally opposes the third water connection and the second water connection opposes the fourth water connection when the chiller module is mounted with the water handling module.

19. The portable cold water immersion system according to claim 13, wherein the frame of water supply assembly includes a shelf provided above and extending over the water circulation pump and the plumbing arrangement, the shelf supporting at least one electrical component of the cold water immersion system.

20. The portable cold water immersion system according to claim 19, wherein the shelf extends over at least a portion of one or more of the evaporator, the compressor, and the condenser.

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