Multi-zone temperature modulation system for bed or blanket
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional temperature control systems for beds and furniture lack specificity in controlling temperatures across multiple zones, are often noisy, and require duplicate expensive components for independent zone control, and are not programmatically controllable to adapt to varying user preferences or sleep cycles.
Innovation Solution
A multi-zone temperature modulation system using a fluid medium with thermoelectric devices and a pump system, including conduit circuits and valves, allows for selective and independent heating or cooling of zones, with programmable control to achieve target temperatures, reducing the need for duplicate components and enabling time-based temperature adjustments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple independent temperature control apparatuses are used for each zone, then temperature control specificity is improved, but device complexity and cost increase due to duplication of pumps and heating/cooling sources
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple temperature control apparatuses into a single integrated system where one pump and one heating/cooling source serve multiple zones. The single apparatus includes multiple outlets with controllable flow paths that can be selectively directed to different zones, eliminating the need for duplicate pumps and heating/cooling sources while maintaining independent temperature control capability for each zone.
2Reliability
If conventional temperature control systems are used, then basic heating or cooling is provided, but noise interferes with sleep and defeats therapeutic aspects
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical pumps with a circulation system that uses a reservoir and controlled flow mechanisms to circulate thermal transfer fluid. This substitution reduces mechanical noise while maintaining the ability to provide therapeutic heating and cooling functions. The system uses controllable flow paths and valves rather than continuous mechanical pumping to achieve quiet operation during sleep.
3Ease of operation
If general heating or air conditioning is used, then overall temperature control is achieved, but localized comfort needs cannot be met and energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements local quality control by providing independent temperature control for different zones within the same bed or furniture piece. Each zone has its own controllable flow path that can be independently adjusted to meet localized comfort needs. This allows different parts of the bed to be heated or cooled according to specific user preferences without requiring energy-intensive general heating or air conditioning of the entire space.
4Adaptability or versatility
If multiple independent systems are used for different zones, then zone-independent temperature modulation is achieved, but the most expensive and noisy parts are substantially duplicated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal temperature control apparatus that can serve multiple zones independently. The single apparatus includes a plurality of outlets with controllable flow paths that can be selectively directed to different zones, allowing one pump and one heating/cooling source to perform the function of multiple independent systems. This multi-functional design eliminates component duplication while maintaining independent control capability for each zone.
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 system provides efficient, cost-effective, and programmable temperature control across multiple zones, enhancing user comfort and promoting better sleep by allowing independent temperature settings for each zone and adaptive temperature adjustments over time.
Implementation Method 1
A thermoelectric device is used to modulate the temperature of the fluid
Implementation Method 2
A pump is used to pump the fluid through the conduit circuits
Implementation Method 3
The fluid is directed through at least two conduit circuits that traverse respective independent zones, utilizing principles of heat exchange to heat or cool the bed surface
Data Source
AI summary
A temperature modulation system for a bed, blanket, or other furniture includes a fluid for moderating temperature change, a number of conduit circuits for directing the fluid through respective zones, a control unit including a thermoelectric device for modulating temperature of the fluid, and a pump. Each of the conduit circuits selectively and independently directs fluid through its respective zone in order to produce a temperature within the zone that is independent of the temperature outside the zone. The system also includes an arrangement of one or more zones in an arrangement in which the control unit is programmed to vary the zone temperature over time according to a schedule.