Segmented Thermal Pad with Integrated Receptacles for Body Parts
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current devices for applying heat and/or cold to body parts for inflammatory or muscle issues are cumbersome and inconvenient.
Innovation Solution
A thermal pad system comprising a polymer band with integrated thermal material receptacles and adjustable fasteners, allowing for flexible application and attachment to body parts, and optionally incorporating a thermometer for temperature monitoring.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional heating and cooling devices are used, then thermal therapy can be applied to body parts, but the devices are cumbersome and inconvenient
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into multiple independent pads that can be separately attached to different body parts. Each pad contains its own receptacle with thermal material, allowing modular application and removal without requiring a complex integrated system.
Solution Approach 2:
The pads are designed to be movable and repositionable on the body through adjustable fasteners, transforming from static rigid devices to dynamic adaptable systems that can be easily reconfigured for different body parts and user needs.
2Reliability
If thermal pads are made with receptacles containing thermal material, then thermal energy transfer is enhanced, but the device structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The receptacle is integrated directly into the pad structure, merging the containment function with the thermal transfer function into a single unified component rather than separate elements, thereby reducing overall structural complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The pad structure serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides the interface for thermal energy transfer, contains the thermal material through the integrated receptacle, and offers attachment capability through built-in fasteners, eliminating the need for separate components.
3Adaptability or versatility
If adjustable fasteners are incorporated into the pad, then adaptability to different body parts is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The fastening system is segmented into discrete adjustable components that can be independently manufactured and assembled, simplifying the manufacturing process compared to a monolithic adjustable mechanism while maintaining versatility.
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
Enhances the application of heat or cold therapy by providing convenient and adjustable thermal energy transfer, aiding in recovery from inflammatory and muscle problems.
Implementation Method 1
a second thermal material located in the container, the second thermal material being configured to enable transfer of thermal energy to and/or from the body part through the container
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3B
Figure 3C~3E
AI summary
In one example, it is disclosed a thermal pad configured to be in contact with a body part of a human or an animal, comprising: a container, the container comprising: a first part configured to form a first face of the pad, the first part being made of a first polymer material, and a second part configured to form a second face of the pad, the second part being made of a material comprising a mix of: a second polymer material, and a first thermal material; and a second thermal material located in the container.