Elastomeric Cooling Headgear with Absorbent Core
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for cooling during outdoor physical activity in hot weather, such as using cold towels, are inefficient as they require manual application and can cause visibility issues due to dripping water and shifting materials.
Innovation Solution
A cooling assembly comprising an absorbent material held between two layers of elastomeric material, which retains cold water and securely fits on the head, preventing leakage and shifting, allowing for hands-free cooling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If a cold towel or cloth is applied to the head to cool during exercise, then heat dissipation is improved, but the towel shifts during movement and requires manual holding
Solution Approach 1:
The cooling assembly is designed to automatically stay in place on the user's head through its elastic properties and adjustable straps, eliminating the need for manual holding or adjustment during exercise. The assembly self-maintains its position and cooling function without requiring user intervention.
2Temperature
If a cold towel is wrapped around the head or neck, then cooling coverage is improved, but water drips from the towel causing visibility problems
Solution Approach 1:
The cooling assembly uses a flexible, breathable fabric structure that conforms to the head and neck contours while managing water flow. The elastic material and structured design prevent excessive water dripping while maintaining cooling coverage, allowing the assembly to adapt to movement without causing visibility problems.
3Temperature
If an absorbent material is used to retain cold water, then cooling efficiency is improved, but the material may shift during activity
Solution Approach 1:
The absorbent material is integrated into a flexible fabric structure with elastic properties that conform to the head and neck. This flexible shell design maintains the absorbent material's position during activity while allowing it to expand and contract with movement, preventing shifting while maintaining cooling efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The cooling assembly incorporates elastic and adjustable components that dynamically adapt to the user's head shape and movement. The material and structure work together to maintain position stability during various activities while preserving the absorbent properties needed for efficient cooling.
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
The cooling assembly effectively cools the user by evaporation of water, maintaining comfort during activity without manual intervention and minimizing visibility issues.
Implementation Method 1
an absorbent material held between two layers of elastomeric material such that the absorbent material is held securely to a user's head. When saturated with cold water, the absorbent material of the assembly retains the liquid
Implementation Method 2
the absorbent material of the assembly retains the liquid
Implementation Method 3
The elastomeric properties of the cooling assembly allow for it to be taken on and off easily and prevent the cooling assembly from shifting on the user's head during activity
Implementation Method 4
The cooling assembly effectively cools the user by evaporation of water
Implementation Method 5
As blood circulates, the cold water dissipates heat from the body
Data Source
AI summary
A cooling headgear is disclosed. Absorbent material within the headgear retains cold water. When worn by a user, the headgear holds the cold water to the head of the user, cooling the user.