Fabric for regulating a temperature of an adjacent surface
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current sleeping surfaces do not effectively regulate temperature, leading to discomfort and sleep deprivation due to being too hot or too cold, and lack of temperature control solutions in homes and buildings.
Innovation Solution
A three-layered fabric structure comprising copper ion infused yarns, phase change material infused yarns, and a spandex fill, stitched in a diamond configuration, to provide temperature regulation and anti-microbial properties.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If traditional fabrics are used for bedding, then the bedding is simple and inexpensive, but it cannot regulate temperature effectively causing discomfort and sleep deprivation
Solution Approach 1:
The fabric is divided into multiple functional layers: a base fabric layer providing structural support, a phase change material layer for temperature regulation, and a copper-infused yarn layer for thermal conductivity and antimicrobial properties. Each layer performs a specific function, collectively solving the temperature regulation problem without requiring complex mechanical systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention combines multiple materials with complementary properties: phase change materials that absorb/release heat at specific temperatures, copper-infused yarns that conduct heat and provide antimicrobial protection, and breathable base fabrics. This composite structure achieves superior temperature regulation compared to single-material fabrics.
2Reliability
If phase change material and copper ion infused yarn are incorporated into the fabric, then temperature regulation and anti-microbial properties are improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The phase change material and copper ions are pre-infused into the yarns during the manufacturing process rather than applied as separate layers afterward. This integration simplifies production by combining multiple functions into a single fabric construction step, reducing manufacturing complexity while maintaining temperature regulation reliability.
3Temperature
If the fabric uses multiple layers with functional yarns, then temperature regulation effectiveness increases, but the fabric becomes more complex and potentially less breathable
Solution Approach 1:
The base fabric layer is selected to be porous and breathable, allowing air circulation despite the presence of functional layers. The phase change material and copper-infused yarns are integrated in a way that maintains fabric permeability, ensuring that the multiple layers enhance temperature control without compromising breathability and comfort.
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 fabric maintains a consistent temperature, providing comfort and restful sleep by absorbing and releasing heat, while offering anti-bacterial and anti-fungal benefits.
Implementation Method 1
the first layer may comprise a copper ion infused yarn and a phase change material infused yarn
Implementation Method 2
the first layer may comprise a copper ion infused yarn
Data Source
AI summary
A fabric for regulating temperature of an adjacent surface comprises at least one layer, for instance, a first layer, a second layer, and a third layer. At least one of the layers is comprised of a first material which comprises copper and phase change material for providing strength and structure to the fabric. At least one of the layers also comprises a cooling material, a heating material and/or a temperature-regulating material. A plurality of stitches comprising yarn can run throughout the layers, holding them together. The fabric can be used in a mattress, pillow, furniture item, garment or other item designed to be placed adjacent a user's body. When used in a mattress or pillow, the fabric may improve a person's sleep and in turn daily functioning.