Wearable Thermocouple Temperature Regulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing temperature regulation technologies for wearables are limited in their ability to dynamically adjust temperature based on real-time readings of a subject's temperature, sleep stages, and manual adjustments, leading to suboptimal comfort and efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A wearable device equipped with electrodes and thermocouples that utilize the Peltier effect to dynamically adjust temperature by monitoring temperature levels and applying voltage to the thermocouples, thereby cooling or heating the device's surface in contact with the subject.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If temperature regulation is implemented using conventional heating/cooling elements, then temperature control capability is provided, but device complexity and energy consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines temperature sensing and temperature regulation functions into a single integrated wearable device. The thermocouple serves dual purposes: it senses temperature through the Seebeck effect and enables heating/cooling through the Peltier effect, eliminating the need for separate sensing and actuation systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The thermocouple element performs multiple functions: temperature sensing (Seebeck effect) and temperature regulation (Peltier effect). This multi-functional approach reduces the number of components needed while maintaining comprehensive temperature control capability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If dynamic temperature adjustment based on real-time monitoring is implemented, then user comfort is improved, but energy consumption and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system continuously monitors temperature using the thermocouple's Seebeck effect and automatically adjusts the Peltier effect activation to maintain optimal temperature. This closed-loop feedback mechanism enables dynamic adaptation to changing conditions while managing energy consumption through intelligent control.
Solution Approach 2:
The wearable device transitions from static temperature regulation to dynamic adjustment based on real-time temperature monitoring. The system adapts its heating/cooling output according to measured temperature conditions, enabling responsive control that matches actual user needs.
3Measurement precision
If multiple sensing functions (temperature, EEG, perspiration) are integrated, then monitoring capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple sensing functions (temperature, EEG, perspiration) and temperature regulation into a single wearable device. The electrodes serve multiple purposes: EEG measurement, temperature sensing, and perspiration detection, reducing the need for separate sensor systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The electrode system performs multiple functions: EEG signal acquisition, temperature measurement, and perspiration monitoring. This multi-functional approach consolidates several sensing capabilities into a unified interface that contacts the user's skin.
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 wearable device effectively regulates temperature to enhance comfort by cooling or heating in response to monitored conditions, improving temperature management and user satisfaction.
Implementation Method 1
The thermocouple may be configured for application of the Peltier effect, thereby cooling or heating the first side of the wearable
Implementation Method 2
At least one electrode may be configured to measure temperature or perspiration/humidity
Implementation Method 3
At least one electrode may be configured to measure EEG brain patterns
Data Source
AI summary
A wearable device may include a first side, a second side, at least one electrode, and at least one thermocouple. The first side may be the side in contact with a subject, and the at least one electrode and the at least one thermocouple may be arranged on the first side.