Multi-zone temperature modulation system for bed or blanket
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional temperature control systems for beds are inefficient in providing independent temperature control for multiple zones, often requiring duplicate expensive components and lacking programmable control to adjust temperatures based on personal comfort or sleep cycles, leading to discomfort and reduced sleep quality.
Innovation Solution
A multi-zone temperature modulation system using a single pump and thermoelectric device to independently control temperature in different zones through conduit circuits, with a control unit that includes a thermoelectric module, heat sink, and fan, allowing for programmable temperature adjustments over time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional temperature control systems use separate pumps and heating/cooling devices for each zone, then independent temperature control for each zone is achieved, but system cost and complexity increase due to duplicate expensive components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple temperature control zones into a single integrated system where one pump circulates fluid through multiple conduit circuits that serve different zones. The heating/cooling device is shared across all zones, eliminating the need for duplicate pumps and heating/cooling devices in each zone while maintaining independent temperature control capability through zone-specific flow regulation.
Solution Approach 2:
The single pump and heating/cooling device are designed to serve multiple zones simultaneously, making these components multi-functional. The system can direct fluid flow to different zones as needed, allowing one set of components to perform the work of what would traditionally require multiple separate systems.
2Ease of operation
If conventional systems lack programmable control, then system simplicity is maintained, but user comfort and sleep quality deteriorate due to inability to adjust temperatures based on personal preferences or sleep cycles
Solution Approach 1:
The control system is designed to automatically adjust temperatures in different zones based on pre-programmed schedules or detected user needs, reducing the need for manual intervention. The system can autonomously respond to sleep cycle stages or user preferences without requiring complex real-time user input.
3Device complexity
If a single pump and thermoelectric device are used for multiple zones, then system cost and complexity are reduced, but the ability to provide simultaneous different temperatures to multiple zones may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the fluid circulation into multiple independent conduit circuits, each serving a specific zone. The single pump can direct fluid flow through different circuits independently, and the control system can regulate flow to each zone separately, enabling simultaneous temperature control in multiple zones despite using a single pump.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs dynamic flow control mechanisms that can adjust fluid distribution in real-time based on the thermal needs of different zones. The control system dynamically balances the fluid flow to ensure each zone receives appropriate temperature control while the pump operates as a single unit.
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
Enables efficient, cost-effective, and programmable temperature control in multiple zones, improving sleep quality by allowing customized temperature settings for different body areas and varying sleep stages.
Implementation Method 1
A temperature modulation system for a bed includes a fluid for moderating temperature change within a selected zone adjacent the subject, at least one conduit circuit for directing the fluid through the selected zone, and at least one thermoelectric device for selectively modulating the temperature of the fluid
Implementation Method 2
the second section of the control unit includes at least one heat sink connected to the at least one thermoelectric module
Implementation Method 3
at least one fan, wherein the at least one fan generates an air path over the at least one heat sink
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.