Abstract: A thermal packet having temperature retaining particles movable within the packet. A plurality of barriers located within the packet form migration paths and retaining areas to facilitate the use of the packet on various body areas.

Abstract: A therapeutic pad is used in footwear which has a liquid absorbent to prevent liquid leakage in the event the sealed envelope of the pad is ruptured. The footwear includes a pair of compartments which substantially surround the foot cavity for receiving the therapeutic pad.

Abstract: A reusable heat or cold chemical therapy pack (10) is provided that has two pairs of compartments (12a and 14a; 12b and 14b). One pair of compartments (12a, 14a) is located on one side of the pack (10) and the other pair (12b, 14b) is located on the opposite side. Each pair of compartments is separated by a rupturable seam (16a, 16b). Each compartment contains a chemical reactant. One compartment in each pair (12a, 12b) is filled with a liquid reactant, and the other compartment in each pair (14a, 14b) is filled with solid beads (15) of reactant material. The compartments proximate those of the opposite pair contain different reactant materials. Therefore, since the solid reactant material (15) will not transfer pressure to the rupturable seam (16a, 16b), only one side of the pack (10) can be activated at a time by pressing on the respective compartment (12a, 12b) containing the liquid reactant.

Abstract: By providing a carrier constructed for securely retaining a heat generating pad while also being able to be easily, securely mounted to the skin surface of an individual, a delivery system is achieved for providing heat therapy to any desired site or location. The heat generating pad is securely retained using either permanent or separatable fastening means. By employing separatable fastening means, the same carrier can be repeatedly employed by changing to a new heat generating pad after the previously used pad is exhausted. In addition, the carrier incorporates either adhesive means for mounting the carrier and pad to a user or employs separatable fastening means mounted to the carrier to enable the carrier and pad to be easily positioned, wherever desired, and securely retained in that position by engaging the fastening means.

Abstract: An instant reusable gel compress for applying cold or heat to a human or animal body part. The compress contains crystals of ammonium nitrate or calcium chloride, a water soluble acrylic polymer and an enclosed bag of water within a sealed, durable, flexible, plastic, bag-like container. When the interior water bag is broken, an immediate thermal reaction and simultaneous gel formation results. The resulting gel compress is then applied to the body part for cold or heat treatment. When the cold or heat is dissipated the gel compress itself may be chilled or heated again by an external source and then reused.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a cold pack device which includes a cold pack, a band member configured to extend around a part of a body in a self-supporting manner, and a housing connected to the band which removably receives the cold pack therein and a method of cooling using the same.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a therapeutic support garment comprising an elongated support member having two ends, an adjustable securing member for removably securing the support member ends, at least one breast pouch disposed on the support member, a positioning member for removably positioning the breast pouch, and a temperature regulator positioned in the breast pouch for imparting a predetermined temperature to the wearer's breast regions to relieve the discomforts of swelling and tenderness thereof.

Abstract: A thermal wrap is disclosed for application to body members, especially joints and limbs. It comprises a pouch for containing a thermal medium and which is constructed of a flexible elastic cloth. The pouch is mounted on a support member, also constructed of a flexible elastic cloth, which is adapted to wrap around a limb or joint. The support member is provided with a wrap fastener such as a hook and loop fastener which is adjustable to establish the desired degree of compression on the affected area. The wrap as applied to a knee and wrist is provided with cinch bands which encircle the limb at locations above and below the pouch. This arrangement provides compression under the bandwidth of the pouch which is independently adjustable relative to the compression under the cinch bands. Additionally, a pressurized air bladder may be provided to independently adjust the compression under the bandwidth of the pouch.

Abstract: A body warming device (10) for warming a user's feet during sedentary activities and a user's hands during substantially any selected activity. A shell member (26) is provided for covering the selected portion of the user's body to be warmed. A heat source receptacle (14) is provided for receiving and retaining a heat source (16). A closure (18) is provided for selectively closing the heat source receptacle (14) in order to prevent the unselected removal of the heat source (16). Insulation (20) is provided between the shell member (26) and the heat source receptacle (14) for regulating the temperature within the shell member (26). The insulation (20) is non-migratory to maintain an even distribution. A lining member (22) may be incorporated to cover the insulation (20). An edging member (24) may be provided for protecting the edges of the panel members (28), the lining (22), and the insulation (20). A heat source (16) is provided for generating heat within the shell member (26).

Abstract: A portable sportsman furnace wherein a unitary housing is arranged for selective securement to an external propane fuel supply, wherein an internal valving permits preselected fuel flow and heating of the burner assembly within the housing to a predetermined level of fuel consumption, and wherein a baffle assembly within the housing permits even distribution of heating throughout the housing, such that louvered vent openings permit ease and consistent distribution of heat throughout a surrounding area relative to the furnace of the invention.

Abstract: A sheet-shaped heat-generating body comprising a sheet-shaped substrate comprising irregularly arranged fibers and having a multiplicity of gaps among the fibers, an oxidizable metal powder dispersed in and supported by the substrate, and an inorganic electrolyte solution containing activated carbon mixed and suspended therein with which the substrate supporting the oxidizable metal powder dispersed therein is impregnated. Since the entire structure of the sheet-shaped heat-generating body is integrated, with the fibrous and porous sheet-shaped substrate assuring uniform distribution and firm support of the oxidizable metal powder or the heat-generating substance, the body is flexible, is free from one-sided distribution of the heat-generating substance, and has excellent heat generating capability.

Abstract: A thermal blanket particularly suitable for post-operative treatment of the ankle and foot. The blanket includes inner and outer panels of easily foldable material having an outline defining two foot sections, an ankle section, and a T-shaped leg encircling section. The outer panel has its entire outer surface formed of soft loop pile fabric and the inner panel is composed of double layers of thermoplastic sheet material heat-sealed together to define at least one and preferably two serpentine flow passages for the circulation of thermal fluid through the blanket. The foot sections have bottom edges joined by one or more elastic webs. Hook-providing attachment patches, releasably attachable to the loop pile fabric that forms the entire outer surface of all of the sections of the blanket, detachably secure the upper edges of the foot sections together, as well as the front edges of the ankle section and the ends of the band portion of the T-shaped section, when the blanket is worn.

Abstract: A back warmer for keeping a person's lower back warm. The back warmer comprises a flexible pad including an upper panel extending between opposite sides of a person and around a person's lumbar, together with a lower panel extending downwardly from the upper panel to substantially cover a person's tail bone. A belt is formed by a pair of elongate elastic straps attached to opposite sides of the upper panel and extending around a person's waist. The upper panel may also include a pocket for containing a heating element. The back warmer may also include a removable seat cushion extending downwardly from the lower panel which is hinged to the lower panel for use as a stadium cushion or the like.

Abstract: A box structure having partitioned compartments in which heat packs are deposited. Multiple series of holes in the box outer walls admit a convective airflow for passage upwardly past the packs and through apertured partitions into a central chamber of the box structure and ultimately through vent openings in a closure of the box structure into the area to be heated.

Abstract: This invention relates to moist heat therapy. More particularly, the invention relates to an improved moist heat pack and method of using the same. The present invention has a temperature monitoring means attached to the outer surface of a moist heat pack that is specifically calibrated to measure skin surface temperature at the opposite outer skin contacting surface. The temperature monitoring device of the present invention thereby provides a means for continuously monitoring skin surface temperature during therapy. The moist heat pack of the present invention can also comprise a means for preventing moisture evaporation from the top surface of the pack.

Abstract: A trigger to initiate crystallization of a supercooled aqueous salt solution of a heat pack, thereby liberating heat. The trigger, when activated, pierces the container, allowing air to enter the pack and initiate crystallization of the solution. A seal over the trigger prevents the solution from leaking from the heat pack.

Abstract: A portable heat conducting apparatus which includes a gas catalyst combustion device having an air sucking ejector. The apparatus further includes a gas jetting nozzle connected to a gas cylinder via a gas control valve, a combustion catalyst, an ignition device, heat drive pump, and check valve. The heat drive pump includes a heating portion having a liquid heating recess. A check valve is disposed in each of the discharge and suction sides of the apparatus. The gas catalyst combustion device has a combustion chamber which accommodates the combustion catalyst, includes the heat drive pump's heating portion, and is made of excellent heat conducting material. An opening portion in the recess formed in the heat drive pump's heating portion is located to face upwards with respect to gravity, and the heat conducting apparatus further includes an operating-liquid circulating closed-circuit.

Abstract: A reusable device for delivering a release of heat to an area such as a body portion. The device comprises a flexible, fluid-tight container holding a liquid which releases heat upon crystallization such as sodium acetate tetrahydrate. A trigger located within the container initiates the crystallization of the liquid to release the latent heat. The trigger comprises a plurality of rigid objects held within a receptacle located within the container. The receptacle is in fluid communication with the container so that the plurality of rigid objects are in contact with the liquid. The trigger initiates the crystallization of the liquid when pressure is applied to the plurality of rigid objects such as by squeezing the trigger between one's fingers.

Abstract: A body warming device (A) is disclosed which warms a person's hands or other body portion that includes a flattened tubular covering (B) having open ends (12, 14) which lead to hand warming pockets (32, 36) on opposing sides of a heater pouch (C) containing an air activated heat pack (30). An air tight compartment (D) provides for deactivation and storage of the heat pack for reuse. Covering (B) may be fastened in a first configuration wherein heater pouch (C) is inside the tubular covering for warming the hands, and a second configuration wherein the heater pouch (C) is on the outside of the covering for direct placement and warming of other portions of the body as a therapeutic device.

Abstract: A heat intensifier for directing radiant heat from a campfire toward a camper situated on the ground adjacent the campfire to enhance the warmth provided by the campfire to the camper includes a collapsible screen having a heat-reflective surface and a frame for attachment to the screen to deploy the screen in a concave-convex configuration in which the heat-reflective surface is located in a position relative to the camper and the campfire to reflect radiated heat from the campfire toward the camper, and anchoring devices for anchoring the attached screen and frame to the ground in that position.

Abstract: The body cooler consists of a wearable network of coils which contain a solid which absorbs heat when dissolved in water. The cooling action is initiated by the addition of water to the network through more than one conduit communicating between the portions of the network and a water source. The degree cooling is regulated by opening of closing of individual conduits which conduct the water to the portions of the network.

Abstract: An improvement of a chemical bag warmer, which comprises a soft bag filled with a sodium acetate solution, and mounted therein with a triggering member; the triggering member is a disc-shaped member, of which the center portion is a cross-shaped part extended to the edge thereof to divide the center portion into four sectors; each sector has a plurality of fragmental concentrie circles to form into a rugged surface, the rugged surface can facilitate the triggering member to bend and vibrate so as to generate a better oscillation wave effect.

Abstract: A data processing workstation environment is rendered more comfortable for an operator by adapting the system to permit heated, vented air from the interior of the computer to be directed into a conduit coupling which terminates in a selected area of the workstation. In one embodiment, the heated air is introduced into the interior of the operator keyboard creating a warm airflow through and over the keys. In another embodiment, the air is directed downward at the feet of the operator. In a still further embodiment, heated air is selectively directed at either the keyboard or downward.

Abstract: A heat pack comprised of a supercooled aqueous solution of sodium acetate and hydroxyethyl cellulose together with a plastic or glass disk or ampule containing sodium acetate crystals in a sealed, flexible container. Activation or crystallization of the sodium acetate portion of the solution is produced by breaking the disk or ampule and exposing the solution to the sodium acetate crystals.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a chemical warmer which comprises an air supply device, a first and a second panel peripherally fastened to each other to form an envelope to contain a chemical thermogenic material. The first panel is configured to include an air-impermeable top layer, an air-permeable middle layer with a plurality of air holes therethrough and an air-permeable inner layer with many micropores therethrough, the top and middle layers being partially welded to each other in such a way that a plurality of air distribution passages and gas exhaust passages are formed for uniformly distributing air inside the panel and extracting exhaust gases/air to a gas exit which is connected to size-adjustable wastegate device. The second panel includes at least an air-impermeable layer. The air supply device is either hand-operated or electronically powered. The present invention further discloses an exothermic material mat which can keep the thermogenic material in place throughout the mat.

Abstract: A disposable patient heating or cooling blanket having three layers of flexible sheeting two of which form an air chamber, the third of which is a comfortable layer for contact with the patient and which, having a greater friction characteristic, aids in keeping the blanket in place on the patient. The patient is bathed in conditioned air through a multiplicity of orifices in the bottom layers of the blanket and the size and location of the orifices are such that sufficient pressure exists within the blanket to prevent crimping blockage and to insure a uniform flow of air through the orifices throughout the blanket area. Conditioned air is introduced horizontally through an external nozzle which is inserted into a low cost foldable fitting plate bonded to the blanket which permits the blanket to be concisely folded and packaged.

Abstract: A portable fluid heating unit which may be used for supplying warm water to divers which includes a three stage heat exchange system wherein a fluid source, such as sea water, is initially heated as it passes through coils within the heating unit firebox and is subsequently heated in a first heat exchange chamber surrounding the firebox, after which, the fluid is heated by heat exchange with the exhaust gases from the firebox in a second heat exchange chamber. The temperature of the fluid is continuously regulated to insure that the heated fluid being conveyed to a diver is maintained at a substantially constant temperature.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a chemical warmer which comprises an air supply device, a first and a second panel peripherally fastened to each other to form an envelope to contain a chemical thermogenic material. The first panel is configured to include an air-impermeable top layer, an air-permeable middle layer with a plurality of air holes therethrough and an air-permeable inner layer with many micropores therethrough, the top and middle layers being partially welded to each other in such a way that a plurality of air distribution passages and gas exhaust passages are formed for uniformly distributing air inside the panel and extracting exhaust gases/air to a gas exit which is connected to a size-adjustable wastegate device. The second panel is air-impermeable. The air supply device is either hand-operated or electronically powered.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a device and method for warming biological fluids. The portable self-contained device which warms physiological fluids including blood is comprised of a reaction container which is capable of storing at least one chemical which when mixed with a second chemical will produce an exothermic chemical reaction, a mixing means for mixing the two chemicals to produce the exothermic chemical reaction, a heat exchanger to absorb heat from the exothermic reaction and transfer it to the physiological fluid or blood, a temperature regulating means to regulate the maximum temperature of the device and an insulating container for enclosing the reaction means, heat exchanger and temperature regulating means. The method of rapidly heating the stored cold physiological fluids including blood to about 39.degree.

Abstract: A system for supplying controlled temperature warm water to the space between a human body and a protector extending over the body comprising a source of pressurized water; a heat exchanger connected to the source to receive and heat the source water and discharge water at temperature T.sub.1 ; a mixing valve connected to the heat exchanger to receive the water discharge from the heat exchanger, the mixing valve having a cold water inlet and being operable to mix cold water with the water at temperature T.sub.1 received from the heat exchanger, thereby to provide and discharge a mixed water stream at controlled temperature T.sub.2, where T.sub.2 is less than T.sub.1 ; a plenum chamber connected with the mixing valve to receive discharged water at temperature T.sub.2 for mixing with warm water in the plenum chamber; and a duct extending from an outlet at the plenum chamber to deliver warm water to the space.

Abstract: A holder for a disposable pocket warmer of chemical or oxidation exothermic type is adapted to be inserted into shoes. The holder containing the pocket warmer is made small so as to be situated only in the toe and the broadest portion of the interior of the shoe. The holder does not extend to the heel of the shoe, so that only a few different sizes of holders can be used for a wide range of shoe sizes. The holder comprises a lower base member and an upper closure or cover member bonded to each other to form a pocket to receive the warmer. Each respective member has a different permeability, so that the holder may be turned upside down or reversed, to thereby change the permeability of a member exposed to air within the shoe interior. As a result, the heating value from the pocket warmer can be changed according to environment.

Abstract: A solid emdothermic reactant is distributed in flexible tubes adapted to fit body contour. Means are provided to fix the solid endothermic reactant in evenly distributed spots in the coils. The tubes are adapted to be worn like a vest in close proximity to body surfaces. When a cooling effect is desired water is added to the tubes to initiate the endothermic cooling reactions.

Abstract: The present invention provides reusable warmers of the supersaturated solution type that are substantially free of saddlebagging. The reusable warmers comprise a flexible container, and located within the container, a supercooled salt solution, an activator for initiating crystallization of the supercooled salt solution, and a gelling agent, the gelling agent being present in sufficient quantity to convert the salt solution to a gel.

Abstract: A disposable body warmer comprising a flat bag and in a flat form having a thickness of 2 to 5 mm, comprising a heat generating agent comprising iron powder as a main ingredient and mixed therewith 9 to 11% by weight of a water-retaining agent, 18 to 22% by weight of water, an oxidation promotor and sodium chloride. The flat bag is provided with an air-permeable surface having an air permeability per unit of 5,000 to 10,000 sec/100 cc so as to bring about a reduction in the pressure accompanying oxidative heat generation of the heat generating agent packed in the flat bag. The other surface of the flat bag is provided with a nontransferable self-adhesive layer.

Abstract: A warmer used to warm fluids, such as blood or the like, passed into the human body. Air is introduced through an opened windowed membrane to expose chemicals in a container. A chemical reaction with the air causes a heat reaction of the chemicals. A tube engages in a trough in the container adjacent where the chemical reaction takes place, thereby absorbing the heat of the chemical reaction for warming the fluids, such as blood, saline solution, injectable solutions in trauma, pre-surgical, intra-surgical, post-surgical and any other solutions through the tube.

Abstract: A heat accumulator element comprises a container containing water sealed therein, the inside of the container being provided with a gas phase. Heat is directed at the outer surface of the container and accumulated in the liquid as sensible heat, and the volume change of the liquid caused by a change in the temperature is absorbed by the gas phase, so as to reach an accumulating temperature up to about 300.degree. C.

Abstract: The present invention provides a body warming device comprising a breathing tube extending to a body fitting member to be worn under a overcoat. The body fitting member receives relatively warm air breathed into the device through the breathing tube and has numerous small exhaust ports for dispersing that warm air from the device where it is effectively trapped and provides a warming effect beneath the overcoat. The device further includes a lower end water trap where moisture condensed out of the breathed air before it leaves the device is collected, with the water trap being removable to then drain the water from the device.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a chemical warmer which comprises an air supply device, a first and a second panel peripherally fastened to each other to form an envelope to contain a chemical thermogenic material. The first panel is configured to include an air-impermeable top layer, an air-permeable middle layer with a plurality of air holes therethrough and an air-permeable inner layer with many micropores therethrough, the top and middle layers being partially welded to each other in such a way that a plurality of air distribution passages and gas exhaust passages are formed for uniformly distributing air inside the panel and extracting exhaust gases/air to a gas exit which is connected to size-adjustable wastegate device. The second panel includes at least an air-impermeable layer. The air supply device is either hand-operated or electronically powered. The present invention further discloses an exothermic material mat which can keep the thermogenic material in place throughout the mat.

Abstract: A backpack-transportable, heated sleeping bag ground pad is provided for the hiker/camper which is extremely compact, simple to use and which may incorporate a variety of conventional outdoor heat sources, such as a campfire or simple kerosene or alcohol lamp, for example. The system basically includes a heating reservoir and miniature, battery-operated pump system to circulate heated water through flexible plastic tubing embedded in a standard sleeping bag ground pad.

Abstract: A cushion using disposable heat pads. A ventilated outer bag contains in its interior, a sheet having at its upper side a recessed air passage, disposable heat pads containing powders such as of oxidized metal and water-containing material, and a cushion, which are put in layers in this order from the lower side of the bag. The disposable heat pads are well ventilated from the air passage of the sheet laid thereunderneath, so that the heating effect can be improved.

Abstract: A versatile heater/cooler (2) comprising a chest (4) having insulated walls (6, 8, 10, 12, 14) including a lid (10). Contained within the chest is a removable heating and cooling source (46) which is submersible in a liquid for heating or cooling the latter. The source comprises first and second vertical conduits (48, 50) having lower portions connected for fluid communication with a transverse body (52) which forms a combustion chamber. The chamber serves for burning fuel (80) or for containing a refrigerant introduced by way of the conduits. Included in the chest lid is a vent port (110) for venting the chest contents including the source, and two limb ports (18, 20) for inserting the limbs of a user through the ports and into the interior of the chest. A self-adjusting shield (22, 24) connected to an edge portion of each limb port, yieldingly surrounds each limb for preventing hot or cold air losses from the chest.

Abstract: An insulated hollow cushion has a neck strap (30), an interior portion (72) sufficiently large to accommodate a portable heating source and/or hot and cold foods (74, 76), two side slits through which hands can be inserted for warmth, sealable flaps (16, 20) for closing the side slits when insulation is desired, a slit (36) at the top of the cushion for insertion of items into the cushion's interior, a closeable top flap (28) to seal the top opening for insulation purposes, and a closeable top small flap (56) to insulate the gap between a user's ankles when such user's feet are inserted through the top slit. The side flaps can be insulated so that they can be tucked into the side openings to narrow these openings to provide a tight seal when small hands are inserted into these openings.

Abstract: A portable outdoor stove/heater for use by outdoorsmen. The heater has a container for containing solid combustible fuel and a seat top which is heat conductive for sitting. The seat top does not extend fully across the open top to permit access to heat for the warming of hands. A pair of arms are mounted to the container to support a fishing pole for ice fishing. A grate may be located in position within the container for heating or cooking food.

Abstract: An electric heating device warms by radiation and convection. A metal casing holds a quantity of heat-conducting oil, with a remaining relatively small volume of space in the container evacuated of air and occupied by an inert gas under subatmospheric pressure. An electric resistance element in the lower part of the casing heats the oil and is positioned so that the oil circulates by thermal convection. An insulative jacket may be placed around the heater making the device capable of storing and giving off heat for relatively long periods of time.

Abstract: A versatile heater/cooler (2) comprising a chest (4) having insulated walls (6, 8, 10, 12, 14) including a lid (10). Contained within the chest is a removable heating and cooling source (46) which is submersible in a liquid for heating or cooling the latter. The source comprises first and second vertical conduits (48, 50) having lower portions connected for fluid communication with a transverse body (52) which forms a combustion chamber. The chamber serves for burning fuel (80) or for containing a refrigerant introduced by way of the conduits. Included in the chest lid is a vent port (110) for venting the chest contents including the source, and two limb ports (18, 20) for inserting the limbs of a user through the ports and into the interior of the chest. A self-adjusting shield (22, 24) connected to an edge portion of each limb port, yieldingly surrounds each limb for preventing hot or cold air losses from the chest.

Abstract: A heating device incorporated in an article of clothing or a shoe, notably a ski boot, comprising a sealed enclosure (2) in contact with the area of the body to be heated, this enclosure containing a salt (5) which changes phase between solid and liquid and has a latent fusion heat close to the normal temperature of the area of the body, from 30.degree. to 40.degree. C., and in which the heating resistance (6) is in a heat exchange with the salt contained in the sealed enclosure (2) such that after heating of the salt, as it returns to its solid state, it progressively gives off heat for a long period of time, while maintaining a substantially constant comfortable temperature.

Abstract: A heat pack for supplying thermal energy to the wearer on immersion in cold water comprises a capsule in which water can be admitted. The capsule contains a heat generating agent arranged in a tablet having such a shape that a reactive surface is created which allows the agent to react exothermally with the water at a controlled reaction rate.

Abstract: A thermo pack for heating or chilling body portions comprising a mixture of water, salt, cellulose and flour sealed in a pliable bag.

Abstract: A boot warmer apparatus is set forth wherein a pocket is secured to a boot in overlying orientation to the toe portion of the boot wherein a Velcro.TM. securable blind pocket accepts in frictional fashion a heating module for imparting warmth to a user of the instant invention. A plurality of straps are securable to the pocket portion of the apparatus and fastenable about the ankle portion of the boot structure for securement thereto.

Abstract: A human environmental conditioner is provided and consists of a plurality of closed recirculating conduits extending from a turbo pump compressor rotary generator worn on waist of an undergarment that is worn over body of a person. A heat exchanger is formed into the undergarment by interweaving the conduits carry refrigerant fluid to various areas of the body to keep the person cool in summer and warm in winter.