Heatable fluid bag
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing heatable fluid bags, such as hot water bottles, are difficult to fill, do not retain heat well, and pose safety risks due to scalding and electrical hazards, while simple electric heaters are not safe for portable use near the body.
Innovation Solution
A heatable fluid bag with integrated heating elements, magnetic switches for safety, and double insulation to prevent electrical shock, allowing for safe and efficient heating and cooling of fluids within a portable, PVC-based container.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a heating element is integrated into the fluid bag, then the heating efficiency is improved, but the risk of electrical shock and burning increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary substance (fluid) between the heating element and the user's body. The heating element heats the fluid, which then transfers heat therapeutically without direct contact between electrical components and the user, eliminating electrical shock risk while maintaining heating efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The system is segmented into distinct functional zones: an electrical heating zone (heating element), a thermal transfer zone (fluid), and a therapeutic application zone (bag contact with body). This segmentation isolates harmful electrical components from direct user contact while preserving the beneficial heating function
2Productivity
If a heating element is integrated into the fluid bag, then the heating efficiency is improved, but the risk of scalding increases
Solution Approach 1:
The fluid acts as an intermediary thermal medium that absorbs heat from the heating element and transfers it gradually to the bag and user's body. This indirect thermal transfer prevents direct scalding from high-temperature heating elements while maintaining effective heating
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates beforehand cushioning by using the fluid as a thermal buffer that absorbs and moderates heat before it reaches the bag and user, preventing excessive temperature buildup and scalding risks
3Ease of operation
If the bag is made portable and removable, then the ease of operation is improved, but the reliability of the heating system deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into separable components: a portable removable bag and a fixed heating base. The bag can be easily removed and repositioned for convenience, while the heating base remains stationary and reliable, providing consistent heating when the bag is in place
Solution Approach 2:
The fluid in the bag acts as a portable thermal intermediary that can be easily moved and positioned, while the heating function remains anchored to the reliable fixed base, combining portability with heating system reliability
4Ease of manufacture
If the heating element is made simple like a kettle electrode, then the manufacturing cost is reduced, but the safety risk of burning and electric shock increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a simple heating element design (similar to kettle electrodes) but introduces a fluid intermediary that prevents direct contact between the simple heating element and the user, maintaining low manufacturing costs while eliminating burning and electric shock risks through the protective fluid barrier
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 a safe, efficient, and portable means to heat or cool fluids, reducing the risk of scalding and electrical hazards, with the ability to maintain heat for several hours and protect against pressure buildup.
Implementation Method 1
when the power connection means is connected to a power source it causes the heating element to be heated to heat the fluid
Implementation Method 2
the magnetic switch includes an elongate member having ends wherein one end is connected to the circuit located at one side of the inside of the bag and the other end is connected to the inside of an other side of the bag
Implementation Method 3
double insulation is provided for all electrical circuits, connectors, wiring and switching components
Implementation Method 4
the heater cage includes upper and lower casing members 51&63 with doubly insulated heating wire encased therein
Data Source
AI summary
A heater element for a heatable fluid filled bag includes a heat generating member having a power connecting member means to allow the heater element to be heated when connected to a power source. The element also includes a first insulation layer having ends and a first heat conductive layer having ends. The heat generating member is covered with the first insulation layer followed by the first heat conducting layer to cover the first insulation layer, which are held together at their ends with inner end support members. The inner end support members is insulative having at least one inner end support member with at least one aperture to allow the power connecting member means there through.