Description:FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to a wearable thermal management device that is designed to improve user comfort and safety by adapting to both environmental and physiological conditions. More specifically, the proposed device also incorporates various sensing, heating, and insulation control means to provide an optimized and dynamic response to the user’s needs, thus regulates temperature, monitor the user’s physical state, and adjust based on external conditions.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Heated wearables are essential for individuals exposed to cold environments, helping maintain body warmth, prevent hypothermia, and enhance comfort. They are particularly beneficial for outdoor workers, athletes, and individuals with medical conditions like poor circulation. Old heated wearables rely on fixed settings, requiring manual adjustments that do not respond effectively to sudden environmental changes. Poor insulation control lead to excessive heating or cooling, causing discomfort or energy wastage. Battery life is a major concern, as continuous heating drains power quickly, limiting long-term usability. Many heating wearables depend on external power sources, making them impractical for extended use without frequent recharging. Bulky heating elements and poor material integration compromise comfort, flexibility, and mobility. Additionally, lack of real-time monitoring of the user's physiological state results in suboptimal thermal adjustments. Inefficient heat distribution creates hotspots, leading to discomfort or burns. Wearable thermal management faces several challenges, including inefficient temperature regulation, energy consumption, comfort issues, and adaptability. To maintain consistent thermal comfort without excessive layering or external heat sources, an adaptive solution is needed, capable of real-time adjustments, efficient insulation, and self-sustaining power solutions for enhanced comfort and usability.

[0003] Traditional wearables for thermal management relied on passive insulation and manually controlled heating methods to maintain body warmth. Layered clothing made from wool, cotton, and synthetic fibers provided insulation by trapping body heat, while fur-lined garments were used in extreme cold. Hand warmers, heated blankets, and hot water bottles offered localized warmth but required frequent replacement or external heating sources. Some cultures utilized natural materials like animal hides, straw, or plant fibers for insulation. Electric heating pads and rudimentary battery-operated heated clothing emerged but often lacked flexibility and efficient temperature regulation. In cold climates, people relied on fire-heated stones or metal plates wrapped in fabric to retain warmth. However, these traditional methods were often bulky, required manual adjustments, and lacked real-time temperature control, leading to overheating or inadequate warmth.

[0004] US20150060430A1 discloses a heating jacket of the present invention includes a jacket main body provided with a pocket, a heating element that is housed between a face cloth and a lining cloth of the jacket main body, and a battery that supplies power to the heating element. The jacket main body is provided with a power line through which the power of the battery can be supplied to the heating element. Holes are formed in the jacket main body for passing the power line 39 therethrough such that the battery can be positioned in the pocket or in the reverse side of the jacket main body.

[0005] US20130001212A1 discloses a heated thermal garment for providing temperature control for a wearer is disclosed. The garment comprises a water-resistant exterior shell; a thermally-insulating interior lining; a microcontroller disposed between the interior lining and the exterior shell; a network of temperature sensors disposed between the interior lining and the exterior shell and in communication with the microcontroller; a network of heating elements disposed between the interior lining and the exterior shell, and a battery assembly providing power to the microcontroller and to the network of heating elements. Temperature zones are provided by monitoring a plurality of temperatures of an interior of the garment.

[0006] Conventionally, many devices have been developed to improve thermal comfort, however these existing devices mentioned in the prior arts have limitations pertaining to operation in a fixed manner without real-time adjustments based on environmental changes or user’s activity, and are insufficient in harvesting energy from the user’s movements, which results in need for external power sources.

[0007] In order to overcome the aforementioned drawbacks, there exists a need in the art to develop a device that requires to be capable of allowing the garment to dynamically adjust its insulation, thereby ensuring efficient response to both user’s activity and environmental changes. In addition, the developed device also needs to offer an energy-efficient solution through the use of self-sustaining features that harvests energy from the user’s movements, reducing the need for external power sources.

OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION

[0008] The principal object of the present invention is to overcome the disadvantages of the prior art.

[0009] An object of the present invention is to develop a device that automatically adjusts its internal temperature based on the user’s environmental and physiological data, thereby ensuring comfort during varying conditions.

[0010] Another object of the present invention is to develop a device that enables continuous monitoring of the user’s surroundings and personal condition in view of allowing the garment to react in real-time and provide optimal comfort for the user.

[0011] Yet another object of the present invention is to develop a device that enhances user comfort and adaptability by enabling the garment to adjust its properties automatically without the need for manual intervention.

[0012] The foregoing and other objects, features, and advantages of the present invention will become readily apparent upon further review of the following detailed description of the preferred embodiment as illustrated in the accompanying drawings.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0013] The present invention relates to a wearable thermal management device that facilitates automatic regulation of internal warmth by adapting to the user’s environmental and bodily conditions, thus guaranteeing optimal comfort across fluctuating situations.

[0014] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a wearable thermal management device, comprising a wearable fabric, composed of at least three layers including a first, second and third layer, the first layer is exposed to environment and the third layer is in contact with a user’s body, the first layer corresponds to the outer layer, the second layer corresponds to the middle layer and the third layer corresponds to the inner layer, a sensing module fabricated over the first/third layer, the sensing module comprises a first set of sensors disposed over the first layer to monitor real time temperature and humidity values around the user, a second set of sensors disposed over the first layer to monitor real time movement, signifying the activities performed by the user, a third set of sensor disposed over the third layer to monitor real time vital parameters of the user, a fourth sensor disposed over the third layer to monitor real time weather conditions, a heating section, disposed over the second layer, in between the first and third layer, the heating section comprises of an assembly of electromagnetic coils, conductive patches and wires disposed throughout the surface of the second layer to generate a heating effect.

[0015] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the proposed device further comprises of an insulation unit, interposed between the first and second layer, the insulation unit comprises of a pair of sliding track integrated at a top and bottom portion of the first and second layer, including one or more motorized rollers to roll/unroll a predefined material sheet to create/remove insulation, a piezoelectric sensor is installed over the third layer to harness the vibrational effect generated by the activities performed by the user while wearing the fabric, an internal battery, in connection with the piezoelectric sensor to store the generated electric energy, the fabric includes a small magnetic field modulator to provide adjustments to the strength and pattern of the electromagnetic field.

[0016] While the invention has been described and shown with particular reference to the preferred embodiment, it will be apparent that variations might be possible that would fall within the scope of the present invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0017] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with regard to the following description, appended claims, and accompanying drawings where:
Figure 1 illustrates a perspective view of a wearable thermal management device; and
Figure 2 illustrates an exploded view of a first, second and third layer associated with the proposed device.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0018] The following description includes the preferred best mode of one embodiment of the present invention. It will be clear from this description of the invention that the invention is not limited to these illustrated embodiments but that the invention also includes a variety of modifications and embodiments thereto. Therefore, the present description should be seen as illustrative and not limiting. While the invention is susceptible to various modifications and alternative constructions, it should be understood, that there is no intention to limit the invention to the specific form disclosed, but, on the contrary, the invention is to cover all modifications, alternative constructions, and equivalents falling within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the claims.

[0019] In any embodiment described herein, the open-ended terms "comprising," "comprises,” and the like (which are synonymous with "including," "having” and "characterized by") may be replaced by the respective partially closed phrases "consisting essentially of," consists essentially of," and the like or the respective closed phrases "consisting of," "consists of, the like.

[0020] As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” designate both the singular and the plural, unless expressly stated to designate the singular only.

[0021] The present invention relates to a wearable thermal management device that enables autonomous regulation of internal temperature, responding to both the user's surroundings and physiological metrics, thereby ensuring consistent comfort in diverse environmental settings.

[0022] Referring to Figure 1 and 2, a perspective view of a wearable thermal management device and an exploded view of a first, second and third layer associated with the proposed device are illustrated, respectively, comprising a wearable fabric 101, composed of at least three layers including a first, second and third layer 102, 103, 104, a sensing module fabricated over the first/third layer 102, 104, comprises, a first set of sensors include but not limited to temperature and humidity sensor 201, 202 disposed over the first layer 102, a second set of sensors include but not limited to accelerometer 203 and gyro meter 204 disposed over the first layer 102, a third set of sensor include but not limited to heart rate sensor 205 and skin conductivity monitors 206 disposed over the third layer 104, a fourth set of sensor include but not limited to rain sensor 207, wind sensor 208 and photodetector 209 disposed over the third layer 104.

[0023] Figure 1 and 2 further illustrates a piezoelectric sensor 210 is installed over the third layer 104, a heating section 211, disposed over the second layer 103 in between the first and third layers 102, 104, an insulation unit, interposed between the first and second layer, the insulation unit comprises of a pair of sliding track 212 integrated at a top and bottom portion of the first and second layer, including one or more motorized rollers 213 coiled with a predefined material sheet 214, pre-defined material includes but not limited to nickel-iron alloy.

[0024] The device disclosed herein comprising a wearable fabric 101 consisting of at least three layers, each layer serving a specific purpose to ensure comfort, functionality, and adaptability to the user’s environment. The fabric 101 comprises a first, second, and third layer. The first layer 102 is exposed to the environment, acting as the outermost layer, providing protection against external elements. The second layer, which corresponds to the middle layer, serves as a buffer and is responsible for maintaining the structural integrity of the fabric 101.

[0025] The third layer 104, in direct contact with the user’s body, is positioned as the innermost layer and provides comfort by maintaining close contact with the skin. The arrangement and materials of these layers work in tandem to enhance the overall effectiveness of the garment, ensuring that the fabric 101 responds optimally to both external conditions and the user’s physiological needs.

[0026] A sensing module, as integrated with the first/third layer 102, 104 of the wearable fabric 101, is equipped with a first set of sensors. This set includes, but is not limited to, temperature and humidity sensors 201, 202 which are strategically positioned over the first layer 102. These sensors 201, 202 are tasked with monitoring real-time temperature and humidity values in the environment surrounding the user. The sensors 201, 202 continuously measure the fluctuations in temperature and humidity, transmitting this data to the microcontroller, which processes the information for further analysis and action, ensuring optimal user comfort and environmental response.

[0027] The temperature sensor 201 operates by detecting changes in temperature through a physical property of a material, which varies with temperature. When the surrounding environment undergoes a temperature change, the sensor's material (e.g., thermistor or thermocouple) changes its resistance, voltage, or current. This change is then measured and converted into a readable temperature value, which is transmitted to the microcontroller. The microcontroller then uses this data to determine the temperature surrounding the user and adjust the fabric 101 functionality accordingly, ensuring the user’s comfort based on the environmental conditions.

[0028] The humidity sensor 202 synchronously measures the amount of moisture present in the air by detecting changes in the electrical properties of a hygroscopic material. When the humidity of the surrounding air increases, the material absorbs moisture, causing a change in its electrical resistance or capacitance. This change is detected by the sensor and transmitted to the microcontroller. The microcontroller processes the humidity data, providing real-time monitoring of the surrounding environment. This allows the microcontroller to respond and adjust the internal temperature or insulation of the wearable fabric 101, in view of maintaining comfort for the user under varying humidity conditions.

[0029] The sensing module is also equipped with a second set of sensors, wherein the second set of sensors integrated within the wearable fabric 101 first layer 102, and includes, but is not limited to, an accelerometer 203 and a gyrometer. These sensors are designed to monitor real-time movement, providing data regarding the activities performed by the user. The accelerometer 203 detects changes in the user’s motion by measuring the rate of acceleration in various directions, while the gyrometer detects rotational movements and orientation changes. This data is sent to the microcontroller, which processes the information to interpret and track the user's physical activity for optimal adjustment of the garment’s functionality.

[0030] The accelerometer 203 operates by measuring the acceleration forces acting on the sensor across one or more axes. The accelerometer 203 typically consists of a mass attached to a spring, which moves in response to changes in velocity. When the user moves, the mass inside the accelerometer 203 shifts, causing a change in capacitance or resistance. This change is measured and converted into acceleration values, which are then transmitted to the microcontroller. The microcontroller uses this data to detect the user's motion and adjust the garment’s functions, such as regulating temperature, in real-time based on the user’s activities.

[0031] The gyrometer 204 typically utilizes a rotating mass that shifts in response to changes in orientation or rotation. As the user moves or rotates their body, the gyrometer 204 senses the change in rotational motion, which is then translated into an electrical signal. This signal is transmitted to the microcontroller, which processes the angular velocity data. The microcontroller uses this information to track the user's body movement and adjust the garment’s functionalities accordingly to provide optimal comfort and performance.

[0032] Afterwards a third set of sensors, integrated over the third layer 104 of the wearable fabric 101, comprises, but is not limited to, a heart rate sensor 205 and skin conductivity monitors 206. These sensors are specifically designed to monitor the user’s real-time vital parameters. The heart rate sensor 205 measures the pulse rate of the user, while the skin conductivity monitors 206 assess the electrical conductance of the skin, which varies with the user’s emotional state and physiological responses. These sensor readings are sent to the microcontroller, which processes the data to ensure that the garment responds in a manner that maximizes comfort and effectiveness.

[0033] The heart rate sensor 205 operates by using optical or electrical methods to detect the user’s pulse rate. Optical heart rate sensors 205, for example, utilize light-emitting diodes (LEDs) that shine light onto the skin. The sensor detects changes in light absorption due to blood flow with each heartbeat. Alternatively, electrical sensors measure the electrical signals produced by the heart through the user’s skin. This data is then transmitted to the microcontroller, which processes the pulse rate information to adjust the garment’s functionality, ensuring it aligns with the user’s physiological state, such as altering temperature or insulation.

[0034] Simultaneously, skin conductivity monitors 206 work by measuring the electrical conductivity of the skin, which varies in response to changes in the user’s emotional state, stress levels, or physical activity. Electrodes are placed on the skin’s surface, and a small electrical current is passed through. The monitor measures how much of the current is conducted, which is directly related to the amount of moisture in the skin. Increased moisture, often due to sweating, typically indicates stress or arousal. The data collected is transmitted to the microcontroller, which analyzes the information to adjust the garment’s features accordingly for optimal user comfort.

[0035] Further a fourth set of sensors, integrated over the third layer 104 of the wearable fabric 101, includes but is not limited to a rain sensor 207, wind sensor 208, and photodetector 209. These sensors are specifically designed to monitor real-time weather conditions in the surrounding environment of the user. The rain sensor 207 detects the presence of rainfall, while the wind sensor 208 measures the wind speed and direction. The photodetector 209 assesses the ambient light levels. The data collected by these sensors is transmitted to the microcontroller, which processes this information to dynamically adjust the garment’s properties, ensuring user comfort under varying weather conditions.

[0036] The wind sensor 208 operates by using an anemometer that measures wind speed using remote sensing technology, typically based on Doppler radar or lidar principles. Doppler radar anemometers emit microwave signals directed towards the moving air particles. The radar detects the frequency shift caused by the particles' motion, which correlates with wind speed. Lidar anemometers use laser pulses instead, measuring the time it takes for light to reflect off airborne particles. By analyzing the frequency or time shift of the reflected signals, the microcontroller calculates wind speed and direction without physical contact with the moving air.

[0037] The photodetector 209 works by detecting the intensity of ambient light in the user’s environment. The photodetector 209 typically consists of a photosensitive element such as a photodiode or phototransistor, which generates an electrical current when exposed to light. The amount of current produced is proportional to the intensity of the light detected. The sensor sends this data to the microcontroller, which processes the light levels to adjust the garment’s response. For example, in bright light, the garment may increase ventilation or adjust insulation to maintain comfort, while in low light, it may conserve heat or make other adjustments based on the environmental conditions.

[0038] The rain sensor 207 comprises of two modules, a rain-board module that detects rain and a control module, which compares the analog value and converts it into a digital value. The rain-board module comprises of copper tracks that serves as a variable resistor, wherein the resistance of the track varies with respect to the wetness on the rain-board. The analog value of the varying resistance is then converted into the digital value by the control module, wherein the digital value is digitally sent to the microcontroller to determine rainy weather condition in the surroundings.

[0039] The microcontroller herein, electrically interconnected with the sensing module for aggregating and analyzing the outputs from the first, second, third, and fourth sets of sensors embedded within the wearable fabric 101. The microcontroller receives data from each set of sensors, including but not limited to temperature, humidity, movement, vital parameters, and environmental conditions such as wind, rain, and light levels. Upon receiving this data, the microcontroller processes and correlates the information to generate an optimum temperature. This temperature is determined based on the real-time conditions surrounding the user, ensuring comfort by maintaining an appropriate thermal balance within the garment.

[0040] A heating section 211, positioned within the second layer 103 and situated between the first and third layers 102, 104 of the wearable fabric 101, comprises an arrangement of electromagnetic coils, conductive patches, and wires embedded throughout the surface of the second layer. These components are designed to generate a heating effect when activated. The microcontroller regulates the operation of the electromagnetic coils based on the optimal temperature derived from the analysis of data received from the sensing module. Upon activation, the coils produce heat, which is distributed across the garment, ensuring that the wearer maintains an ideal temperature, aligned with the surrounding environmental and physiological conditions.

[0041] The heating section 211 consists of electromagnetic coils and conductive patches integrated throughout the surface of the second layer. The microcontroller, upon determining the optimal temperature, activates the coils and patches. As electrical current flows through the electromagnetic coils, it generates heat due to the resistance of the materials. The conductive patches assist in distributing the heat evenly across the second layer. This controlled heating ensures that the internal temperature of the garment is maintained according to the user’s real-time needs, based on both environmental and physiological data.

[0042] Simultaneously, a magnetic field modulator which is electrically connected to the microcontroller, is directed by the microcontroller. This modulator is responsible for adjusting the strength and pattern of the electromagnetic field generated by the heating section 211, as needed. The modulator operates in conjunction with the microcontroller, which controls the necessary adjustments based on real-time data. The microcontroller continuously monitors 206 and fine-tunes the electromagnetic field to maintain optimal user comfort and operational efficiency, while responding to the user’s physiological and environmental conditions.

[0043] The modulator works by adjusting the strength and pattern of the electromagnetic field by controlling the flow of electrical current through the coils. The microcontroller monitors 206 real-time data from the sensing module and processes it to determine the required field strength. Based on this input, the modulator alters the characteristics of the electromagnetic field to align with the optimal temperature settings. This ensures precise control of the garment’s internal temperature based on user needs.

[0044] An insulation unit, positioned between the first and second layers, is designed to provide dynamic insulation adjustments based on environmental or user conditions. The insulation unit, comprises a pair of sliding tracks 212 integrated at the top and bottom of the first and second layers, allowing to alter insulation by manipulating a predefined material sheet 214. The material sheet 214, which is rolled or unrolled as required, is controlled by one or more motorized rollers 213. These rollers 213 ensure that the insulation can be added or removed efficiently, allowing the garment to adapt to changing environmental conditions or user requirements.

[0045] The sliding track 212, integrated at both the top and bottom portions between the first and second layers, allows for the controlled movement of a material sheet 214 within a defined path. The track 212 features grooves or channels that guide the material sheet 214 to prevent any misalignment during the rolling or unrolling process. As the motorized rollers 213 activate, they pull or push the material sheet 214 along the sliding track 212, enabling it to move smoothly in a linear direction. The track 212 ensures that the material sheet 214 stays positioned correctly, allowing it to be evenly distributed or removed as needed.

[0046] The motorized rollers 213 are powered by small electric motors that rotate the rollers 213 at precise speeds. These rollers 213, when engaged, grip the material sheet 214 and either pull it or release it based on the required insulation. When the motors are powered to roll the material, the rollers 213 turns in a forward direction, pulling the material sheet 214 along the sliding track 212 and causing it to unroll. Conversely, when insulation removal is necessary, the rollers 213 reverse direction, effectively rolling the material back up. The motorized rollers 213 ensure consistent tension and precise movement of the material sheet 214 without slippage, allowing for accurate insulation adjustments.

[0047] A piezoelectric sensor 210 generates an electrical charge in response to mechanical stress or vibrations. When the user engages in movement or activity while wearing the fabric 101, mechanical strain or vibrations are produced within the fabric 101. The piezoelectric material, which is integrated into the sensor, undergoes deformation due to these mechanical forces, generating a voltage proportional to the magnitude of the vibration or pressure. This voltage is then captured by the sensor and transmitted to the microcontroller for further processing. The piezoelectric sensor 210 output is used to monitor user activity and convert mechanical vibrations into measurable electrical signals.

[0048] Moreover, a battery is associated with the device for powering up electrical and electronically operated components associated with the device and supplying a voltage to the components. The battery used herein is preferably a Lithium-ion battery which is a rechargeable unit that demands power supply after getting drained. The battery stores the electric current derived from an external source in the form of chemical energy, which when required by the electronic component of the device, derives the required power from the battery for proper functioning of the device.

[0049] Although the field of the invention has been described herein with limited reference to specific embodiments, this description is not meant to be construed in a limiting sense. Various modifications of the disclosed embodiments, as well as alternate embodiments of the invention, will become apparent to persons skilled in the art upon reference to the description of the invention. , C , Claims:1) A wearable thermal management device, comprising:

i) a wearable fabric 101, composed of at least three layers including a first, second and third layer 102, 103, 104, wherein said first layer 102 is exposed to environment and said third layer 104 is in contact with a user’s body;

ii) a sensing module fabricated over said first/third layer 102, 104, wherein said sensing module comprises:
a first set of sensors disposed over said first layer 102 to monitor real time temperature and humidity values around said user;
a second set of sensors disposed over said first layer 102 to monitor real time movement, signifying the activities performed by said user;
a third set of sensor disposed over the third layer 104 to monitor real time vital parameters of the user; and
a fourth sensor disposed over the third layer 104 to monitor real time weather conditions;

iii) a microcontroller electrically connected with said sensing module to aggregate the output of the first, second, third and fourth set of sensors and generate an optimum temperature to be maintained;

iv) a heating section 211, disposed over the second layer, in between the first and third layers 102, 104, said heating section 211 comprises of an assembly of electromagnetic coils, conductive patches and wires disposed throughout the surface of the second layer 103 to generate a heating effect, wherein said microcontroller regulates said electromagnetic coils based on the evaluated optimum temperature; and

v) an insulation unit, interposed between the first and second layer, wherein said insulation unit comprises of a pair of sliding track 212 integrated at a top and bottom portion of the first and second layer, including one or more motorized rollers 213 to roll/unroll a predefined material sheet 214 to create/remove insulation.

2) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a piezoelectric sensor 210 is installed over the third layer 104 to harness the vibrational effect generated by the activities performed by the user while wearing said fabric 101.

3) The device as claimed in claim 2, wherein said device includes an internal battery, in connection with said piezoelectric sensor 210 to store the generated electric energy.

4) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein said first set of sensors include but not limited to temperature and humidity sensor 201, 202, said second set of sensors include but not limited to accelerometer 203 and gyro meter 204, said third set of sensors include but not limited to heart rate sensor 205 and skin conductivity monitors 206, said forth set of sensors include but not limited to rain sensor 207, wind sensor 208 and photodetector 209.

5) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein said first layer 102 corresponds to the outer layer, said second layer 103 corresponds to the middle layer and the third layer 104 corresponds to the inner layer.

6) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein said pre-defined material includes but not limited to nickel-iron alloy.

7) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein said microcontroller is connected to the motorized rollers 213 via a motor driver.

8) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein said fabric 101 includes a small magnetic field modulator that is connected with the microcontroller, to provide adjustments to the strength and pattern of the electromagnetic field.