Self-Contained Thermal Therapy Pod With Adhesive Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional thermal therapy devices are limited in their ability to securely position thermal transferring elements on the body, maintain therapeutic temperature, and adjust temperature on demand without external heating or cooling sources.
Innovation Solution
A self-contained thermal therapy pod with electric powered thermal transferring elements, a thermally conductive layer, and a fan for heat dissipation, along with a removable cover and wireless power transfer, allowing for flexible positioning and temperature control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional thermal transferring elements are manually held or attached using straps and wraps, then the TFE can be positioned on the body, but the positioning is limited to accessible locations and restricts hand movement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical positioning with adhesive technology. The TFE incorporates adhesive material that allows it to be securely attached to the skin or clothing without requiring manual holding or external straps, enabling placement on previously inaccessible body locations and freeing the user's hands for other activities.
2Temperature
If external thermal sources are used to heat or chill the TFE, then the therapeutic temperature can be maintained, but the device requires external equipment and cannot modify temperature on the fly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service by incorporating a power supply and heating element directly into the TFE. The device generates its own heat through an electrical heating element powered by an integrated battery or rechargeable cell, eliminating the need for external hot water baths, ice baths, or heating pads. This allows the TFE to independently maintain and adjust its therapeutic temperature on demand.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the TFE has fixed thermal properties, then the device structure is simple, but the therapeutic temperature cannot be modified during use
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the TFE's thermal properties adjustable rather than fixed. The device includes a power supply and heating element that can be controlled to vary the temperature output, allowing users to modify the therapeutic temperature during use based on their needs. This dynamic adjustment capability transforms the TFE from a static thermal source to an adaptive therapy device.
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 secure positioning on the body, maintains desired therapeutic temperature, and allows for on-demand temperature adjustments without external heating or cooling, enhancing usability and versatility.
Implementation Method 1
one or more electric powered thermal transferring elements residing between the inner surface and the outer surface
Implementation Method 2
a fan configured to dissipate heat created from operating the electric powered thermal transferring element to an ambient environment
Implementation Method 3
a thermally conductive layer between the application surface of the electric powered thermal transferring element and the inner surface of the main body
Data Source
AI summary
A thermal therapy pod adapted to maintain a desired therapeutic temperature and change temperature on the fly without needing to be heated or chilled by an external thermal source. The therapy pod is self-contained and uses an electric powered thermal transferring element that can provide both heat and cold therapy. The temperature and duration of use may be controlled using an application on a mobile device. The therapy pod can be positioned on a user using straps, wraps, sleeves, or other wearable therapy pod retaining devices.