With Body Applicator Patents (Class 62/259.3)
  • Patent number: 7363765
    Abstract: Article of footwear includes a sole, an insole overlying the sole, the insole having in a surface thereof a groove having an inlet and outlet in an edge of the insole, the groove winding substantially throughout the length and width of the insole upper surface. A tube is disposed in the groove and extends throughout the length of the groove and has an inlet portion extending from the groove inlet at the edge of the insole and an outlet portion extending from the groove outlet. An upper fixed to the sole has apertures through which extend the tube inlet and outlet portions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2008
    Assignee: United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Army
    Inventors: Stephen Szczesuil, Michael J. Holthe
  • Publication number: 20080060374
    Abstract: A portable cooling system providing a controlled rate of cooling. The system includes a cool water device, a remote switching unit, and a thermal pad. The cool water device includes a coolant storage chamber separated from a pumping chamber by a baffle. The pumping chamber includes a pump and a discharge line with a flow restrictor for the fluid being returned from the thermal pad. In one embodiment, the remote switching unit actuates the portable cooling system and includes a timer feature for shutting down the system after a predetermined time. In another embodiment, the switching unit actuates a controller that sends a pulse stream to the pump to control the cooling water flow rate. The thermal pad includes fluid conduits that distribute the cooling water over the surface of the pad. In various embodiments, the thermal pad is a flat pad, a bonnet-shaped pad, and a cap-shaped pad.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 8, 2006
    Publication date: March 13, 2008
    Applicant: ADROIT MEDICAL SYSTEMS, INC.
    Inventors: Scott Gammons, Clifford E. Gammons
  • Publication number: 20080040831
    Abstract: A garment is provided including an article of clothing to which one or more thermal transfer elements are removably and adjustably secured by the engagement of a first fastener with a second fastener. The character of the first and second fastener allow the location of the thermal transfer element to be adjusted multiple times without significantly weakening the bond between the fasteners. Heat is transferred between the thermal transfer element and the selected body part of the wearer, while the wearer's hands remain unoccupied so that the wearer can participate in other activities while receiving a heat transfer treatment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 18, 2007
    Publication date: February 21, 2008
    Inventors: Ali Nilforushan, Kevin Bello
  • Publication number: 20080021529
    Abstract: A personal cooling element for patients comprises at least one cooling zone (2) that can be pre-tensioned against the body surface (10) of a person wearing the personal cooling element. The cooling zone (2) is three-layered with an internal layer (4) that faces towards the body, an external layer (6) that faces away from the body and an evaporation zone (8) that is located therebetween. The internal layer (4) and the external layer (6) each are made from a material that is waterproof and permeable to water vapor. The evaporation zone (8) is supplied with liquid water.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 1, 2005
    Publication date: January 24, 2008
    Applicant: UNICO SWISS TEX GMBH
    Inventors: Barbel Selm, Benno Wust, Markus Weder
  • Patent number: 7302808
    Abstract: In one aspect, the present disclosure relates to improved cooling module of a type for circulating water or other cooling fluid through a tube-lined cooling garment system. In another aspect, the present disclosure relates to a central shaft for the transmission of rotational power or torque. In yet another aspect, the present disclosure relates to a hydration system which may be employed in connection with the cooling module described herein. In still another aspect, the present disclosure relates to an improved garment pass-through connection system for penetrating one or more garment layers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2007
    Assignee: Wilcox Industries Corp.
    Inventors: James W. Teetzel, Gary M. Lemire, Dominic R. Goupil, Marc J. Celona
  • Patent number: 7272946
    Abstract: The present invention provides a cooling suit for allowing comfortable feeling even with a lesser power consumption and a simple structure. The cooling suit includes a cloth part 10a having an upper portion made of a highly air-permeable material, and having those portions other than the upper portion which are made of a substantially air-impermeable material. Formed at a reverse surface of the cloth part 10a are airflow passages between the cloth part 10a and an undergarment. Provided at a lower portion of the cloth part 10a are air outlets 50a for extracting air-streams within the airflow passages to the exterior; and provided at those positions of the reverse side of the cloth part 10a which correspond to the air outlets 50a, are fans for forcibly causing the air-streams within the airflow passages.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2007
    Assignee: Seft Development Laboratory Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Hiroshi Ichigaya
  • Patent number: 7266965
    Abstract: A vest including inflatable tubes or chambers which receive cool air from a blower box. The vest includes an outer surface and inner surface, the two surfaces joined to define a multiplicity of tubes. The tubes carry jets which may vent cool air, received from a remote cool air blower box. The jets will ventilate the skin of the wearer both where it is exposed and where the skin is covered by the garment itself.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2007
    Inventor: Ralf W. Blackstone
  • Patent number: 7266966
    Abstract: A vest including inflatable tubes or chambers which receive cool air from a blower box. The vest includes an outer surface and inner surface, the two surfaces joined to define a multiplicity of tubes. The tubes carry jets which may vent cool air, received from a remote cool air blower box. The jets will ventilate the skin of the wearer both where it is exposed and where the skin is covered by the garment itself.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2007
    Inventor: Ralf Blackstone
  • Publication number: 20070199333
    Abstract: A thermoelectric heat exchange system for fluids comprising a pumping device, configured to deliver a fluid; a fluid inlet system in fluid communication with the pumping device; a fluid outlet system in fluid communication with the pumping device; a reservoir in fluid communication with the pumping device, and configured to hold a fluid; and a heat exchange system in fluid communication with the fluid delivery system, including: a heat exchange plate in fluid communication with the fluid system, comprising a channel system wherein the width of the channel system is about an order of magnitude greater than the depth of the channel system; a thermoelectric cooling module in thermal communication with the heat exchange plate; and a heat sink in communication with the thermoelectric cooling module, and configured to dissipate heat from the thermoelectric cooling module
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 26, 2007
    Publication date: August 30, 2007
    Inventor: ROBERT WINDISCH
  • Patent number: 7260950
    Abstract: There is provided an air conditioning system and method for operating an air conditioner according to a user's physical response to external conditions. The air conditioning system includes: an indoor environment sensing unit/a personal characteristic value reception unit for measuring an indoor environment and the user's physical status so as to obtain information used to operate an air conditioner; a control unit including at least a microprocessor, for finding out personal characteristic values which are used to evaluate the user's physical status on the basis of information inputted from the personal characteristic value reception unit; and a driving unit controlled by the control unit, for promptly enhancing the user's physical status.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2007
    Assignee: LG Electronics Inc.
    Inventors: Ho Seon Choi, Gi Seop Lee, Kwan Ho Yum, Youn Ho Yoo, Deok Huh
  • Patent number: 7249464
    Abstract: A device includes a backpack that includes a cavity extending from a top to a bottom edge thereof. A fan is partially seated within the cavity and blows ambient air towards the operator. A heat sink is mated to the fan, disposed anterior thereof and is situated for allowing the air to pass therethrough. A thermal electric plate is conjoined to the heat sink. A thermal conductive plate is coupled to the thermal electric plate. An aluminum plate is conjoined to the thermal conductive plate. A first fastener is positioned through the heat sink, thermal electric plate and thermal conductive plate. Second and third fasteners are positioned through the aluminum and thermal conductive plates. A mechanism is included for supplying power to the fan and the thermal electric plate from a single power supply source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2007
    Inventor: Charles E. Watson
  • Patent number: 7240720
    Abstract: Apparatus for abstracting heat comprises a container charged with a first liquid and with small auxiliary containers free to circulate in the first liquid. Each of the small auxiliary containers is charged with a second liquid. The first and second liquids each have a selected temperature of transformation that facilitates use of the apparatus to heat or cool a substance contacted by the apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2007
    Inventor: Thomas P. Noel
  • Patent number: 7231777
    Abstract: A portable personal cooling device substantially utilizing components typical in gas refrigerant air conditioning. The device is worn as a backpack, with adjustable shoulder straps for user size variations. Gas refrigeration provides effective cooling even in conditions of high humidity and temperature extremes. The device is compact, lightweight, and includes on/off and temperature control. Cooling is powered by a rechargeable battery or standard AC voltage, along with a transformer. The compressor is powered by the fan motor. A base for removably fitting the housing's base insert provides for upright storage and use of the device when not being worn.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 19, 2007
    Inventors: Henry Arnold, Virginia Arnold
  • Patent number: 7185511
    Abstract: A composition for effecting heat transfer to or from a fluid, the composition comprising a primary adsorbent material, such as activated carbon, for adsorption of a gas, such as carbon dioxide, and a graphite material in an amount of 0.01 to 80% by weight of the total composition. A binder may also be included in the composition to aid heat transfer. The composition may be incorporated into an apparatus (12) that includes sealing means (14) for retaining the gas on the surface of the material and a release mechanism (16) for breakage of the seal, said apparatus being provided with a vessel (6) for holding fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2007
    Assignee: Chemviron Carbon Limited
    Inventors: Thomas Anthony Ryan, Harry Sharrock
  • Patent number: 7178344
    Abstract: Disclosed is a system for thermally conditioning and pumping a fluid. The system includes a thermoelectric heat exchanger having a thermoelectric device configured to pump heat. Heat exchangers are provided for transferring heat to and from the thermoelectric device and for generating a fluid flow across the thermoelectric device. The conditioned fluid may be placed in thermal communication with a variety of objects, such as a vehicle seat, or anywhere localized heating and cooling are desired. Thermal isolation may also be provided in the direction of flow to enhance efficiency.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2007
    Assignee: Amerigon, Inc.
    Inventor: Lon E. Bell
  • Patent number: 7152412
    Abstract: This invention relates to a fully adjustable personal back rest and seat cooling and heating system specifically designed to provide several hours of high efficiency cooling or heating when used by a user as either a seat cushion and back or a mattress or sleeping surface. This combination personal back rest and seat cooling and heating system invention is capable of delivering several hours of high efficiency personal cooling or heating without the use of caustic or toxic chemicals with virtually no risk of injury associated with its use. This personal back rest and seat cooling and heating system invention is portable, battery powered, lightweight and durable in construction and specifically designed for use in harsh climatic conditions where access to refrigeration and heating are limited or unavailable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2006
    Inventor: Mark R. Harvie
  • Patent number: 7127907
    Abstract: A headgear capable of sprinkling and cooling comprises at least a crown, a water pouch and a liquid dispenser. The front end of the peak is provided with an atomizing nozzle, which is connected with a connecting tube at one end. A water pouch provided at the inner rim of the crown is provided with a water outlet at the outer edge. The liquid dispenser includes a squeezing device, a switch, and batteries; all of the above elements are assembled and contained in a casing composed of an upper portion and a lower portion, and then installed at an upper position of the peak. The liquid dispenser is connected to the water outlet of the water pouch with its inlet end, and to the nozzle with its outlet end via a connecting tube. Accordingly, the water contained in the pouch can be transmitted by the liquid dispenser to the nozzle at the front end of the peak for praying purpose, thereby accomplishing a headgear capable of sprinkling and cooling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2006
    Inventor: Ming-Te Tu
  • Patent number: 7124593
    Abstract: A temperature conditioning apparatus for the human body includes a vest or other clothing unitary with a thermoelectric or Stirling cycle heat pump worn by the user. The unit is powered by a battery source worn on the user's belt or other part of his or her body, or by an externally-mounted electrical energy source, for example, in a vehicle. The vest has front and rear panels with an air flow layer and permeable inside layer that accept and release conditioned air to the user. The vest may be used with body armor or other protective layers, that is, the vest may be worn underneath body armor or body armor may be built into the vest, or the vest may be used without body armor to cool the user in an exceptionally hot environment such as a non-air conditioned space in hot weather.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2006
    Inventor: Steve Feher
  • Patent number: 7117687
    Abstract: The present invention provides air conditioning garment for air conditioning an individual wearing said garment. The garment comprises an inner layer of a three-dimensional netting structure enclosed between two layers of substantially air-impermeable fabric, wherein the layer facing the wearer's body is having a plurality of openings directed toward predetermined locations on said body. The garment is having an inlet opening with connection means for connecting the inner layer to a source of air at a predetermined temperature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2006
    Assignee: Micro Climate Solutions, Ltd.
    Inventor: Chibbi Naaman
  • Patent number: 7111468
    Abstract: There is provided an air conditioning system and method for operating an air conditioner according to a user's physical response to external conditions. The air conditioning system includes: an indoor environment sensing unit/a personal characteristic value reception unit for measuring an indoor environment and the user's physical status so as to obtain information used to operate an air conditioner; a control unit including at least a microprocessor, for finding out personal characteristic values which are used to evaluate the user's physical status on the basis of information inputted from the personal characteristic value reception unit; and a driving unit controlled by the control unit, for promptly enhancing the user's physical status.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 26, 2006
    Assignee: LG Electronics Inc.
    Inventors: Ho Seon Choi, Gi Seop Lee, Kwan Ho Yum, Youn Ho Yoo, Deok Huh
  • Patent number: 7107629
    Abstract: One embodiment of the present invention is apparel that includes: (a) a heat exchanger adapted to be worn in close proximity to a portion of a body; (b) a garment adapted to cover the heat exchanger; and (c) a multiplicity of anchors that couple the heat exchanger and the garment at a multiplicity of anchor locations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2006
    Assignee: Coolsystems, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert H. J. Miros, Tamara L. Schirrmacher
  • Patent number: 7096687
    Abstract: Ice bag covers, articles and methods useful in the creation of a non-constrictive ice bag device that is compact and can be attached to a garment, said ice bag device comprising (a) an outer cover with extended peripheries to attach said outer cover to the inside or the outside of a garment using a plurality of safety pins; (b) a cooling medium, optionally in a liquid impermeable inner container that can fit inside the outer cover, said inner cooling container preferably being a plastic zipper bag which is sealed on three sides and having the fourth side open, the fourth side preferably having a rib and groove sealing closure; and (c) a plurality of safety pins for use to attach the ice bag device to a garment and to close the open side(s) of the outer cover; and wherein the ice bag device is optionally packaged in association with a set of instructions for use to direct the consumer how to use the product properly, to ensure that the consumer knows what benefits can be achieved, and how best to obtain these
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2006
    Inventors: Albert Long Trinh, David Lam Trinh
  • Patent number: 7065983
    Abstract: Ice bag covers, methods, and articles of manufacture useful in the creation of a adhesive, non-constrictive ice bag device that is compact and can be attached to a garment, said ice bag device preferably comprising (a) a flexible outer cover for one or more cooling packs, having one face partially or entirely covered with mounting adhesive for temporarily attaching said cover, when it is filled with at least one cooling pack, to the inside or the outside of a garment, such that said cooling pack is in close contact with an injured body part of the user, without the need for a strapping and/or wrapping means, and (b) optionally, but preferably, one or more liquid impermeable inner containers that are filled with a cooling medium to form said cooling packs and can fit inside said outer cover, each said inner container being preferably a plastic zipper bag which is sealed on three sides and which has the fourth side open having a rib and groove sealing closure, and wherein said article comprising said outer cove
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2006
    Inventors: Albert Long Trinh, David Lam Trinh
  • Patent number: 7028344
    Abstract: Systems and methods for providing an article associated with headgear that keeps the wearer's head both cool and cushioned from the interior harness of the headgear. The article is a system, liner or pad that is inserted into the headgear or coupled to the headgear harness for cooling and comfort, and includes a water absorbent polymer or other material contained within non-impervious pocket partitions attached to a concave disk of mesh fabric. The mesh fabric provides ventilation portions, which allow for the free flow of air and breathing of the wearer's scalp to facilitate the natural evaporation of perspiration. The article provides a cushion to the wearer's scalp from the abrasive effect of the webbing of the headgear harness. As the pocket partitions swell due to absorption of water by the polymer material, the pockets function as gel-like cushions or pads that protect the wearer's scalp. The article is held in place with small straps, Velcro® tabs, or other retention devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2006
    Inventor: Gregory T. Toth
  • Patent number: 7010931
    Abstract: A temperature control system adapted for use with an article of clothing and designed to cool the wearer of the article of clothing. The temperature control system comprises a canister containing a cooling agent in its gaseous or vaporous state, a regulator for adjusting the flow of cooling agent from the canister and at least one supply line for delivering the cooling agent to an optimal release point. The canister can be an integral part of the article of clothing adapted to be recharged with the cooling agent or can be removable from the article of clothing, adapted to be refilled and replaced. The at least one supply line can be a plurality of supply lines delivering cooling agent to several optimal release points located within the article of clothing. The regulator enables the user to adjust the amount of cooling agent in order to obtain an optimal level of comfort.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 14, 2006
    Inventor: Clemie Lee
  • Patent number: 6976276
    Abstract: A carotid cooling jacket keeps the wearer cool during outside sporting events, for example. The jacket is reusable, and constructed of a waterproof inner lining and a soft outer cover. The outer cover can be made of various materials and in various colors. Filler caps are provided to fill the jacket inner liner with cooling fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 20, 2005
    Inventor: John D. Corbitt, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6957697
    Abstract: A garment for a personal cooling or warming system, the garment comprising a carrier formed in the shape of the garment, and a bladder comprising at least two channel segments, wherein the channel segments have a substantially flat configuration so as to improve thermal efficiency.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 25, 2005
    Inventor: Paul A. Chambers
  • Patent number: 6948322
    Abstract: A thermionic heating and cooling device for heating or cooling a portion of a user's body utilizes thermal diodes having a first surface in thermal contact with a flexible thermal transfer band strapped to a portion of the user's body and a second surface spaced apart therefrom with a thermally conductive porous carbon foam heat sink secured to their second surface which is partially enclosed by a shroud and a surrounding air filter. A small enclosure worn by the user contains an air pump, a battery and a switch. A flexible conduit connects the air pump and shroud and draws ambient air through the porous carbon foam medium. The thermal diodes are connected to the battery by leads extending through the conduit. A voltage bias between the diode surfaces creates a cold surface and hot surface opposite each other and causes electrons to flow in one direction and transfer heat from the first surface to the second and into the heat exchanger, and the heat is prevented from returning to the first surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 27, 2005
    Inventor: Percy Giblin
  • Patent number: 6942015
    Abstract: A body heating/cooling apparatus includes a vest having a front panel and a back panel defining a cavity therebetween. A flexible, continuous channel is disposed in serpentine fashion throughout the cavity and has adjacent portions. An inlet and an outlet are provided for infusing a fluid into the channel and for withdrawing the fluid from the channel. The adjacent portions of the channel are placed in fluid communication by passageways extending between corresponding adjacent portions at locations intermediate the ends of the adjacent portions. The passageways are configured with respect to the corresponding adjacent portions such that substantially all of a fluid flowing through the corresponding adjacent portions normally bypasses the passageways.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2005
    Assignee: Jenkins Comfort Systems, LLC
    Inventor: Donny Ray Jenkins
  • Patent number: 6931875
    Abstract: A basic vest is formed of a rear panel and laterally disposed front panels. The panels are fabricated of a material of low thermal insulation capabilities. A plurality of pockets has two laterally spaced rectangular front sheets located on the exterior surface of the front panels and two laterally spaced rectangular rear sheets located on the exterior surface of the rear panel. Each sheet has peripheral edges stitched to an associated panel and a free peripheral edge. An opening with fasteners there adjacent allow a wearer to open and close the opening. The sheets are fabricated of a material of high thermal insulation capabilities. A plurality of cooling packs is adapted to be placed in the pockets for dissipating the cooling temperature to a wearer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2005
    Inventors: Jeffrey Allen, Sylvia Allen
  • Patent number: 6915641
    Abstract: This invention relates to a fully adjustable personal cooling and heating system specifically designed to provide several hours of high efficiency cooling or heating when worn and operated by a user. This combination personal cooling and heating system invention is capable of delivering several hours of high efficiency personal cooling or heating without the use of caustic or toxic chemicals with virtually no risk of injury associated with its use. This personal cooling and heating system invention is lightweight and durable in construction and specifically designed for use in harsh climatic conditions where access to refrigeration and heating are limited or unavailable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2005
    Inventor: Mark R. Harvie
  • Patent number: 6904956
    Abstract: Apparatus for abstracting heat comprises a container charged with a first liquid and with small auxiliary containers free to circulate in the first liquid. Each of the small auxiliary containers is charged with a second liquid. The first and second liquids each have a selected temperature of transformation that facilitates use of the apparatus to heat or cool a substance contacted by the apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2005
    Inventor: Thomas P. Noel
  • Patent number: 6874332
    Abstract: A protective vest includes a cooling system including an elongated housing generally disposed inside the protective vest. At least one fan powered by an electric motor is supported at the upper end of the elongated housing proximate the neck opening of the protective vest for drawing fresh air into the upper end of the elongated housing. The elongated housing includes a retractable extension for varying the length thereof. Ventilation holes are formed in the elongated housing to discharge fresh air between the protective vest and the user's body. Electrical wires extend from the motor to a battery worn by the user, or to a vehicle cigarette lighter, to supply power to the motor. The electrical wires incorporate a quick-disconnect coupling and a switch/dimmer control to control the speed of the fan.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2005
    Inventor: Paul A. Forgach
  • Patent number: 6858068
    Abstract: A device for adsorbing water vapor from a gas stream. The device can be incorporated with an enclosure or garment in such a manner so as to enable water vapor to be adsorbed, thereby decreasing the relative humidity in the micrlimate surrounding the user. The water adsorption device is light-weight, has a high mass and volumetric energy capacity. A desiccant material is included within the water adsorption device to adsorb water vapor and a phase-change material is located in thermal communication with the desiccant to increase the loading capacity of the desiccant and maintain a cool gas stream by extracting the heat of adsorption from the desiccant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2005
    Assignee: Nanopore, Inc.
    Inventors: Douglas M. Smith, Kevin H. Roderick
  • Publication number: 20040244412
    Abstract: Ice bag covers, articles and methods useful in the creation of a non-constrictive ice bag device that is compact and can be attached to a garment, said ice bag device comprising (a) an outer cover with extended peripheries to attach said outer cover to the inside or the outside of a garment using a plurality of safety pins; (b) a cooling medium, optionally in a liquid impermeable inner container that can fit inside the outer cover, said inner cooling container preferably being a plastic zipper bag which is sealed on three sides and having the fourth side open, the fourth side preferably having a rib and groove sealing closure; and (c) a plurality of safety pins for use to attach the ice bag device to a garment and to close the open side(s) of the outer cover; and wherein the ice bag device is optionally packaged in association with a set of instructions for use to direct the consumer how to use the product properly, to ensure that the consumer knows what benefits can be achieved, and how best to obtain these
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 6, 2003
    Publication date: December 9, 2004
    Inventors: Albert Long Trinh, David Lam Trinh
  • Publication number: 20040244413
    Abstract: Ice bag covers, methods, and articles of manufacture useful in the creation of a adhesive, non-constrictive ice bag device that is compact and can be attached to a garment, said ice bag device preferably comprising (a) a flexible outer cover for one or more cooling packs, having one face partially or entirely covered with mounting adhesive for temporarily attaching said cover, when it is filled with at least one cooling pack, to the inside or the outside of a garment, such that said cooling pack is in close contact with an injured body part of the user, without the need for a strapping and/or wrapping means, and (b) optionally, but preferably, one or more liquid impermeable inner containers that are filled with a cooling medium to form said cooling packs and can fit inside said outer cover, each said inner container being preferably a plastic zipper bag which is sealed on three sides and which has the fourth side open having a rib and groove sealing closure, and wherein said article comprising said outer cove
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 6, 2003
    Publication date: December 9, 2004
    Inventors: Albert Long Trinh, David Lam Trinh
  • Patent number: 6823678
    Abstract: An air conditioner system to provide cooling or heating to a flexible material-based device includes a ventilated portion located within a flexible material body, a thermoelectric module with heat exchanges on opposite sides, an air stream source, and a power source. The ventilated portion has two chambers formed between a flexible material inner layer, an intermediate layer and a flexible material outer layer with a plurality of air vents in each of the flexible material inner and outer layers. Each of the heat exchangers is in fluid communication with one of the chambers. The air stream source provides an air flow through the heat exchangers into the chambers and out through the plurality of vent holes. The power source provides power to at least the thermoelectric module.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 30, 2004
    Assignee: Ferrotec (USA) Corporation
    Inventor: Zhixin Li
  • Publication number: 20040211189
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for personal heat control are provided. According to one embodiment of the present invention, a self-contained, portable heat control device includes a flexible enclosure, a cooling surface, a heating surface, and a heat transfer unit, such as a Peltier-effect unit. The flexible enclosure, made of one or more bonded layers of polyester (polyether) foam or a similar soft-faced material, is configured to accommodate an internal DC power supply. The heating surface is thermally insulated from the cooling surface. The heat transfer unit is accommodated in or on the flexible enclosure and is configured and disposed to cool the cooling surface and heat the heating surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 17, 2003
    Publication date: October 28, 2004
    Inventor: Anthony P. Arnold
  • Publication number: 20040210283
    Abstract: An apparatus for supplying liquid to a heat exchanger for body temperature control for a human or animal comprises an inlet port for receiving liquid from a heat exchanger for body temperature control and for passing the liquid to a temperature conditioner to condition the temperature of the liquid. A pump is provided for pumping liquid from the temperature conditioner to the heat exchanger. The apparatus includes a sensor for sensing a parameter indicative of a condition of the liquid, for example, flow rate, pressure or temperature, and a controller for controlling the pump in response to the parameter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 5, 2004
    Publication date: October 21, 2004
    Inventors: Joseph Lorney Rose, Lucien Potvin, Kevin Semeniuk
  • Patent number: 6789274
    Abstract: An enhanced chest protector for usage in sporting events and hazardous activities. More particularly, the invention is a chest protector that utilizes a soft, pliable gel attached to the previously-existing chest protector to greatly enhance absorption and dissipation of impact forces. The gel is of a type commonly used for heat or freezer packs, and is configured in many separate panels to keep the gel from flowing across the entire device. Importantly, the gel is durable and lightweight, which allows the player to wear the product comfortably for extended periods of time. In addition, the gel may be frozen or refrigerated prior to use, so as to provide cooling for the player in hot water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2004
    Inventor: Thomas Karpati
  • Publication number: 20040159109
    Abstract: This invention relates to a fully adjustable personal cooling and heating system specifically designed to provide several hours of high efficiency cooling or heating when worn and operated by a user. This combination personal cooling and heating system invention is capable of delivering several hours of high efficiency personal cooling or heating without the use of caustic or toxic chemicals with virtually no risk of injury associated with its use. This personal cooling and heating system invention is lightweight and durable in construction and specifically designed for use in harsh climatic conditions where access to refrigeration and heating are limited or unavailable.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 9, 2004
    Publication date: August 19, 2004
    Inventor: Mark R. Harvie
  • Publication number: 20040154332
    Abstract: When Ice is put into the tube (Ice-lets) and wrapped around your ankle or wrist, it will cool your body temperature down by cooling down your own blood circulation that is circulating through your body. What is new about the product/device is that there are no batteries, electrical cords or coolant that need to be used. All you need is ice, which is cheap, affordable and available. This will save you money on your electric bill so that you can keep cool without using your air conditioner. You can use it when you do your gardening on hot days or when you take long walks in the summer, go to the swap meet, in your car (if your air conditioner is not working) or anywhere that you would need to keep cool.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 30, 2002
    Publication date: August 12, 2004
    Inventor: Julia C. Woodrow
  • Patent number: 6772445
    Abstract: A cooling bracelet having a hollow chamber for holding a frozen liquid such as water. The cooling bracelet has a hollow chamber with a plug so the user may easily refill the hollow chamber with a freezable liquid and freeze the bracelet for cooling purposes. The cooling bracelet also has a detachable watch face, which is attached by hook and loop material to the cooling bracelet, on the opposite side from the hollow member holding frozen liquid. The cooling bracelet has a stretchable band so any size wrist can use the cooling bracelet. The stretchable band allows the user to slide the cooling bracelet over the hand to the wrist.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2004
    Inventor: Benjamin Yeager
  • Patent number: 6763671
    Abstract: A closed-cycle apparatus for cooling a living body includes a heat pickup body or garment which permits evaporation of an evaporating fluid, transmission of the vapor to a condenser, and return of the condensate to the heat pickup body. A thermal battery cooling source is provided for removing heat from the condenser. The apparatus requires no external power and provides a cooling system for soldiers, race car drivers, police officers, firefighters, bomb squad technicians, and other personnel who may utilize protective clothing to work in hostile environments. An additional shield layer may simultaneously provide protection from discomfort, illness or injury due to harmful atmospheres, projectiles, edged weapons, impacts, explosions, heat, poisons, microbes, corrosive agents, or radiation, while simultaneously removing body heat from the wearer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2004
    Assignee: UT-Battelle, LLC
    Inventors: James W. Klett, Lynn B. Klett
  • Publication number: 20040074250
    Abstract: A cooling apparatus includes a base unit in the form of an insulated tank that defines a refrigerant chamber therein for refrigerant, a discharge unit for discharging a flow of air, and a closed circulation system for transferring coolness from the refrigerant in the refrigerant chamber to the air flow in the discharge unit, the circulation system including a first tube coil in the refrigerant chamber, and second tube coil in the discharge unit, a pump, and hoses for conveying coolant from the first tube coil to the second tube coil and back to the pump. The base unit can be harnessed to a user as a backpack and the discharge unit can be a helmet worn by the user, the hoses connected therebetween being flexible. The refrigerant supplied to the refrigerant chamber can be ice and the coolant flowing through the closed circulation system can be water.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 22, 2002
    Publication date: April 22, 2004
    Inventor: Richard Junkins
  • Patent number: 6718785
    Abstract: Cooling devices are provided to reduce a person's temperature by evaporative, convective, and/or conductive cooling. One such device maximizes evaporative cooling by aiding the flow of air to the person and the removal of vapor-laden air from the person. An upper sheet and a base sheet are adhered to define numerous elongated, parallel, inflatable cooling chambers separated by flat connecting membranes. Ventilating cross-members interconnect the cooling chambers. Air enters the chambers through an inlet, exits the chambers toward the person through air permeable regions of the base sheet. Air heated by the person's body exits the device upward through evaporation openings in the connecting membranes. The foregoing device, or different variations thereof, may be modified for use in conductive cooling by adding an absorbent sheet beneath the base sheet, or substituting the absorbent sheet for the base sheet itself.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2004
    Assignee: Arizant Healthcare Inc.
    Inventor: Mark Thomas Bieberich
  • Patent number: 6715309
    Abstract: A cooling apparatus includes a base unit in the form of an insulated tank that defines a refrigerant chamber therein for refrigerant, a discharge unit for discharging a flow of air, and a closed circulation system for transferring coolness from the refrigerant in the refrigerant chamber to the air flow in the discharge unit, the circulation system including a first tube coil in the refrigerant chamber, and second tube coil in the discharge unit, a pump, and hoses for conveying coolant from the first tube coil to the second tube coil and back to the pump. The base unit can be harnessed to a user as a backpack and the discharge unit can be a helmet worn by the user, the hoses connected therebetween being flexible. The refrigerant supplied to the refrigerant chamber can be ice and the coolant flowing through the closed circulation system can be water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 6, 2004
    Inventor: Richard Junkins
  • Patent number: 6688128
    Abstract: A shaped article is capable of at least one of containing and delivering a cryogenic fluid. The article has a porous structure that restricts the passage of cryogenic fluid in the liquid phase while permitting the passage of cryogenic fluid in the gaseous phase. The article may be in the form of a tube or container. The article permits a liquid cryogen to be transported to a specific site, and then cool the site by means of conduction from the cold article and convection of cold gas, the phase change of the evaporating liquid greatly enhancing the heat loss.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2004
    Assignees: Gore Enterprise Holdings, Inc, W. L. Gore & Associates (UK) Ltd.
    Inventors: Mark John Robbie, David Myers
  • Patent number: 6681589
    Abstract: A portable life support system includes a primary oxygen supply in thermal communication with a recirculated ventilation flow from a user. The primary oxygen supply has a solid adsorbent bed made of a molecular sieve that adsorbs oxygen at cryogenic temperatures and desorbs oxygen when heated. The primary oxygen supply freezes carbon dioxide and moisture in the recirculated ventilation flow. A wire mesh is adjacent to the primary oxygen supply to contain frozen carbon dioxide and moisture. A first ice chest is downstream of the primary oxygen supply to condition the temperature and humidity of the recirculated ventilation flow. A liquid cooled garment associated with the suit is in thermal communication with the first ice chest.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2004
    Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventor: Myron J. Brudnicki
  • Patent number: 6681590
    Abstract: The invention is a head cooling compress, positioned for the top of a human head, generally used under a cap or hat. The device consists of a reusable, refreezable, 4″×4″ gel cold pack enclosed in a removable, washable, self closing fabric bag. The hermetically sealed gel pack will remain flexible when frozen to a low temperature of 20 degrees farenheit. The 4.5″×4.5″ fabric bag consists of a washable terry/velour fabric with a self closing feature which will allow the gel pack to be removed. The self closing feature consists of overlapping fabric similar to the back of a pillow sham. A further purpose of this device is because of it's small size and shape to be used as a covered therapeutic cold pack for bodily afflictions, injuries, and trauma. A VELCRO hook style fastener with a semi-permanent adhesive backing will secure said fabric bag to the inside top of a cap or hat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2004
    Inventor: Barbara Ann Jones