Multi-zone cooling for a foam padding
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing foam paddings in mattresses and seats do not provide instant and long-lasting cooling effects, as they either fail to absorb thermal energy effectively or require additional energy sources like air conditioners or ventilators, which are costly or noisy.
Innovation Solution
A foam padding with an upper section containing an electrically conducting absorber to absorb thermal energy instantly and a lower section with a flexible band to transport thermal energy to edges or areas without excess heat, utilizing materials like graphite and graphene for efficient thermal conductivity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If phase change materials are used in the upper section to absorb thermal energy, then instantaneous cooling effect is improved, but the cooling duration is limited once the material melts
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a flexible band with electrically conducting layer as an intermediary thermal transport element. This band connects the upper section (with phase change material) to the lower section, actively transporting thermal energy away from the phase change material. This mediator enables continuous cooling by preventing thermal energy accumulation, thereby extending the cooling duration beyond the limitations of phase change materials alone.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces passive thermal storage (phase change materials that stop working after melting) with an active thermal transport system using electrically conducting materials. The flexible band with electrically conducting layer actively moves thermal energy through conduction, substituting the passive mechanical phase change process with an active thermal management system that can operate continuously.
2Loss of energy
If thermal conducting materials are blended into foam or channels are cut into foam, then thermal connectivity is improved, but the solution becomes expensive or ineffective
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a flexible band with an electrically conducting layer as a thin film structure embedded within the foam padding. This flexible conducting layer provides efficient thermal connectivity without requiring complex channel structures or extensive material blending. The thin film approach achieves effective thermal transport while maintaining structural simplicity and cost-effectiveness.
3Loss of energy
If insulating materials are used in the mattress core, then thermal insulation is improved, but the body temperature rises causing sweating and discomfort
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by creating a thermal management system with different functional zones: the upper section contains phase change materials for local thermal absorption where the body contacts the mattress, while the flexible band provides targeted thermal transport pathways. This localized approach allows insulation in non-contact areas while providing active cooling at the body interface, preventing overall temperature rise without sacrificing necessary insulation.
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 both instantaneous and prolonged thermal comfort by absorbing thermal energy in the upper section and transporting it to the lower section, maintaining a comfortable temperature gradient across the padding.
Implementation Method 1
At least one electrically conducting absorber embedded in the upper section. The electrically conducting absorber can absorb the thermal energy from the upper section.
Implementation Method 2
The band is configured for transferring the thermal energy within the lower section from a sub-section with the excess thermal energy to at least one sub-section without the excess thermal energy
Data Source
Figure 1~2
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Figure 5~7
AI summary
A foam padding (10) has at least one upper section (32) and at least one lower section (34). The foam padding (10) comprises at least one absorber (20) that is embedded in the upper section (32), the at least one absorber (20) for absorbing thermal energy from the upper section (32). The foam padding (10) further comprises at least one band (24) that is embedded in the lower section (34), the at least one band (24) configured for transferring thermal energy within the lower section (34) from a sub-section with excess thermal energy (36) to at least one sub-section with-out excess thermal energy (38). The at least one sub-section with-out excess thermal energy (38) is located at the edges of the foam padding (10).