Convective Device Flow Control Between Multiple Inflatable Sections
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Convective devices with multiple inflatable sections lack effective flow control mechanisms to manage airflow between sections, leading to inefficient thermal distribution and comfort maintenance.
Innovation Solution
A convective device featuring a flow control device with an air permeable strip and an air impermeable strip, configured to remain closed when one inflatable section is inflated and open when the other is inflated, allowing controlled airflow between sections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If multiple inflatable sections are used in a convective device, then thermal distribution capability is improved, but airflow control between sections becomes difficult leading to heat loss
Solution Approach 1:
The convective device is divided into multiple inflatable sections (first inflatable section, second inflatable section) that can be independently controlled. Each section can be inflated or deflated separately to optimize thermal distribution to different body regions, while the flow control device prevents unnecessary airflow between sections to reduce heat loss.
Solution Approach 2:
A flow control device is introduced as an intermediary element between the first and second inflatable sections. This flow control device includes an air permeable strip and an air impermeable strip that work together to selectively control airflow between sections based on inflation states, thereby preventing heat loss while maintaining thermal distribution capability.
2Temperature
If airflow is allowed between inflatable sections, then thermal equilibrium is achieved, but comfort maintenance is compromised due to uncontrolled air movement
Solution Approach 1:
The flow control device dynamically adjusts its permeability based on the inflation states of the adjacent sections. When both sections are inflated, the air impermeable strip covers the air permeable strip to prevent airflow. When one section is deflated, the strips separate to allow airflow, thereby dynamically maintaining comfort while achieving thermal equilibrium when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The flow control device changes its airflow parameter (from permeable to impermeable) based on the operational state. The air impermeable strip moves to cover or uncover the air permeable strip depending on whether airflow is desired, allowing the system to adapt between maintaining thermal equilibrium and maintaining comfort based on operational requirements.
3Ease of operation
If a flow control device is added between sections, then airflow control is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The flow control device operates autonomously based on the pressure differential created by the inflation states of the adjacent sections. The air impermeable strip automatically moves to cover or uncover the air permeable strip in response to pressure changes, eliminating the need for external control mechanisms and minimizing added complexity while improving airflow control.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables efficient thermal control and comfort maintenance by ensuring airflow only when necessary, optimizing thermal distribution and preventing heat loss or gain as required.
Implementation Method 1
The flow control device is configured to open when the second inflatable section is inflated with inflating medium and remain closed when the first inflatable section is inflated with inflating medium
Implementation Method 2
a first inflatable section having a first opening, a second inflatable section having a second opening, and a flow control device disposed between the first inflatable section and the second inflatable section
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 1C~2B
Figure 2C~3A
AI summary
At least some aspects of the present disclose feature a flow control device to be used between two inflatable sections. The flow control device is a one-way flow control device allowing inflating medium to flow in one direction. In such embodiments, the flow control device is in an open state when a first inflatable section is inflated such that a second inflatable section is also inflated. The flow control device is in close state when the second inflatable section is inflated such that the first inflatable section is not inflated.