Spot Warming Device With Foil Insulation And Fuse

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing portable warming devices lack stability, predictability, and safety features, particularly in controlling temperature and power distribution, which can lead to inefficient heat output and potential overheating.

Innovation Solution

A spot warming device comprising a pliable metal plate with wire adhered to it, insulated with foil, and covered with durable cloth, featuring a three-way switch and a fuse for temperature control, with optional internal or external battery connection, and a clip for attachment to clothing.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Temperature

If existing portable warming devices are used, then portability is achieved, but temperature control stability and safety are insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetemperature control stabilityVSAvoidsafety

Core Design Contradiction:

TemperatureVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a three-way switch that changes the electrical circuit configuration to control current flow through different portions of the wire, thereby adjusting the heat generation parameter. This allows the user to select between high, low, and off positions, providing stable and predictable temperature control while preventing overheating through the low setting option.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a fuse as an intermediary safety component that automatically breaks the circuit when excessive current flows or temperature becomes dangerous. This mediator protects the user from overheating hazards without requiring active user intervention, thereby improving reliability and safety while maintaining portability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Ease of manufacture

If simple warming devices are used, then ease of manufacture is improved, but heat output efficiency and predictability deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveease of manufactureVSAvoidheat output efficiency

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of manufactureVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies foil insulation material specifically over portions of the wire that generate heat, concentrating and directing the thermal energy where it is needed. This localized application of insulation improves heat output efficiency and predictability while adding minimal complexity to the manufacturing process, as the insulation can be simply wrapped or adhered to the wire.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

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 device provides stable and predictable heat output with adjustable temperature settings and safety features, ensuring efficient energy use and user safety by preventing overheating.

Implementation Method 1

A spot warming device includes a power source, and a wire... provides stable and predictable heat output

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectJoule heating: Joule Heating

Implementation Method 2

positioning foil insulation product atop the first face and the wire

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectThermal insulation: Thermal Insulation

Data Source

PatentUS7564009B2Spot warming device, and method

Publication Date: 2009.07.21 EZ INNOVATIONS

AI summary

The disclosure depicts a spot-warming device, and a method of making the same.