Portable Beverage Temperature Regulator With Thermoelectric Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional beverage containers are poorly insulated, leading to rapid temperature changes when exposed to different ambient conditions, resulting in less enjoyable consumption and potential waste, with existing solutions like insulated sleeves and thermoses being ineffective or impractical.
Innovation Solution
A portable temperature regulator with a vacuum-sealed insulating medium, thermoelectric heat transfer devices, and a resilient member to secure containers of varying sizes, coupled with a controller and sensors to actively maintain desired temperatures using renewable energy sources.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If passive insulation devices (insulated sleeves, thermoses) are used, then device complexity is reduced, but temperature regulation effectiveness deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces passive mechanical insulation with active thermoelectric heat transfer devices that use electrical energy to actively pump heat, transitioning from a passive mechanical insulation system to an active electromechanical temperature control system
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces thermoelectric devices as intermediary components between the interior and exterior of the container, acting as heat pumps that actively transfer heat rather than relying on passive insulation barriers
2Reliability
If active temperature regulation devices (microwaves, refrigerators) are used, then temperature regulation effectiveness is improved, but portability and practicality deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the temperature regulation function into a portable unit that can be detached from large appliances, creating a standalone device with integrated power supply and control that can be easily transported and deployed
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal portable device that can regulate temperature for various containers and applications, combining cooling, heating, and temperature maintenance functions in a single portable unit
3Device complexity
If conventional non-insulated containers are used, then device complexity is reduced, but temperature stability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces reliance on passive insulation stability with active thermoelectric control that dynamically adjusts heat transfer to maintain stable temperatures despite external conditions
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements temperature sensing and control systems that continuously monitor and adjust heat transfer, creating a feedback loop that maintains temperature stability
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
Effectively maintains the temperature of beverages and other materials within a desired range, ensuring consistent quality and reducing waste by actively regulating temperature through efficient heat transfer and energy management.
Implementation Method 1
an insulating medium disposed between the outer wall and the inner wall, wherein the insulating medium is a vacuum-sealed chamber having air substantially removed therefrom
Implementation Method 2
one or more heat transfer devices configured to transfer heat from the inner wall to the outer wall
Data Source
AI summary
A temperature regulator may include a housing extending longitudinally from a first, open end to a second, closed end. The housing may include an outer wall, an inner wall disposed radially inward from the outer wall, and an insulating medium disposed between the outer wall and the inner wall, wherein the insulating medium is a vacuum-sealed chamber having air substantially removed therefrom.