Foothold including thermoelectric module
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Solution Overview
Problem
Users experience discomfort and decreased concentration due to poor ventilation under desks, especially during hot weather, leading to heat buildup at the lower body, which is not effectively addressed by traditional cooling devices.
Innovation Solution
A foothold with a thermoelectric module that supplies conditioned air to the feet, featuring multiple air channels, a heat dissipation channel, and a detachable cover for efficient air distribution and sanitation, utilizing fans and heat sinks to generate and dissipate air effectively.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If a discrete cooling device such as a mobile air conditioner or electric fan is placed at the side of the desk, then cooling effect is provided, but device complexity and space requirement increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the cooling function directly into the foothold structure by embedding a thermoelectric module within the foothold body. This merging of the cooling device with the existing foothold eliminates the need for separate cooling devices, reducing overall system complexity while providing targeted cooling to the lower body area.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a thermoelectric module as an intermediary component that converts electrical energy directly into temperature differences without requiring large mechanical components. This intermediary device enables compact cooling by utilizing the Peltier effect, allowing the foothold to generate cold air internally without needing external air conditioners or fans.
2Area of stationary object
If multiple air channels are configured to supply cold air to both feet, then cooling coverage is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the cooling system into multiple independent air channels within the foothold structure. By segmenting the internal space into separate channels that distribute cold air to different areas (left foot, right foot, front, rear), the system achieves comprehensive coverage while maintaining manageable complexity through modular channel design.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes three-dimensional space within the foothold by configuring air channels that extend in multiple directions (front, rear, left, right). This spatial arrangement allows cold air to reach all areas of the lower body without requiring a larger device footprint, effectively using vertical and lateral dimensions to maximize cooling coverage.
3Loss of energy
If a heat dissipation channel is configured between two cold air channels, then heat dissipation efficiency is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the heat dissipation function with the existing air channel structure by integrating a heat dissipation channel between the cold air channels. This merging allows the thermoelectric module to efficiently reject heat to the surrounding air through dedicated pathways, improving thermal management without requiring completely separate cooling and heating systems.
4Ease of repair
If the cover is made detachable for washing, then ease of maintenance is improved, but connection reliability may worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the foothold into separable components, specifically making the cover detachable from the main body. This segmentation allows the cover to be easily removed for washing and maintenance while the main body housing the thermoelectric module remains intact. The separation is designed with proper coupling mechanisms to maintain reliability when assembled.
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 solution provides comfortable temperature regulation to the lower body, enhancing user concentration and learning performance by effectively generating and distributing cold or hot air directly to the feet, while being compact and easy to maintain.
Implementation Method 1
A heat absorption heat sink being in contact thermoelectric element is included in the cover
Implementation Method 2
A heat dissipation heat sink and a thermoelectric element of the thermoelectric module are disposed in the body
Implementation Method 3
a cooling fan being provided in the cooling channel
Implementation Method 4
a heat dissipation fan being provided in the heat dissipation channel
Data Source
AI summary
A foothold including a thermoelectric module includes a body having an air channel in which a suction fan is provided and a dissipation channel in which a dissipation fan is provided, and a cover including an air discharge portion disposed on the body. Further, the thermoelectric element is disposed between the dissipation heat sink and the cover.