Thermoelectric Heating Cooling Pad for Targeted Temperature Management
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing Targeted Temperature Management (TTM) systems require expensive capital equipment and fluid handling, which can lead to fluid leaks and patient exposure, necessitating a more efficient and equipment-free solution for temperature regulation.
Innovation Solution
A medical pad incorporating thermoelectric devices (TEDs) with a thermal conduction layer and insulation, controlled by a pad controller to establish temperature differences for thermal energy exchange with the patient, optionally using a circulating liquid system for enhanced heat transfer.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If fluid-based TTM systems are used, then thermal energy exchange capability is improved, but device complexity and risk of fluid leakage increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical fluid circulation system with an electrical thermoelectric device (TED) system. The TED uses electrical energy to directly create temperature differences between its surfaces, eliminating the need for fluid pumps, reservoirs, and circulation mechanisms while maintaining effective thermal energy exchange capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts and removes the fluid handling components (reservoirs, pumps, tubing) from the TTM system, retaining only the essential thermal exchange function through the TED device. This extraction eliminates fluid leakage risks while preserving the core temperature management capability.
2Temperature
If fluid-based TTM systems are used, then thermal energy exchange capability is improved, but patient safety deteriorates due to fluid leakage risks
Solution Approach 1:
By replacing the fluid-based thermal exchange system with an electrically-powered thermoelectric device, the patent eliminates the harmful factor of fluid leakage that could expose patients to unwanted fluid contact, while maintaining effective temperature control capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a disposable contact pad containing the TED device, which eliminates patient safety risks associated with fluid contamination. The disposable nature ensures no fluid handling is required, completely removing the leakage hazard while providing effective thermal therapy.
3Temperature
If traditional TTM equipment is used, then temperature control capability is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces expensive mechanical TTM equipment with a simpler thermoelectric device-based system. The TED technology, combined with a disposable contact pad, significantly reduces manufacturing costs while maintaining effective temperature control capability through electrical rather than mechanical means.
Solution Approach 2:
By using a disposable contact pad containing the TED device, the patent eliminates the need for expensive, reusable mechanical TTM equipment. This approach reduces manufacturing costs through simpler materials and construction while providing effective temperature control for each use.
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 effective and safe temperature management without the need for expensive equipment or fluid handling, ensuring patient safety and reducing operational costs by using a self-contained, electrically controlled thermal pad system.
Implementation Method 1
at least one thermoelectric device (TED) having a top side and a bottom side, the TED configured to establish a temperature difference between the top side and the bottom side in accordance with electrical energy supplied to the TED
Implementation Method 2
a thermal conduction layer coupled to the bottom side... configured to exchange thermal energy with the patient
Implementation Method 3
an insulation layer coupled to the thermal conduction layer
Implementation Method 4
a convection device coupled to the top side of the TED and the convection device is configured to facilitate thermal energy exchange between the TED and environmental air adjacent the top side of the TED... a fan to provide airflow across the convection device
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed are systems and methods for performing targeted temperature management including a thermal pad having a thermoelectric device. A pad controller may regulate the temperature of the thermal pad. The thermal pad temperature can facilitate cooling and/or warming of the patient. The pad can include a thermal conduction layer and a skin contact layer. The system may include a controller to set the pad temperature of multiple thermal pads according to a TTM therapy. The thermal pad and the system can incorporate data from temperature sensors coupled to the thermoelectric device and the patient. The system controller may be coupled to the thermal pads via a wired or wireless connection.