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A Flexible Hooded Warm And Cooling Jacket With Convertible Sleeping Bag

Abstract: The present invention is related to a flexible hooded warming and cooling jacket with convertible sleeping bag, a comfort jacket designed to maintain ambient body temperature in extreme weather conditions. This suit comprises multiple layers, including an insulated outer layer (103), a middle layer (104a), and an inner layer (104b) made from air and water-resistant materials. The jacket features a detachable hood (101), adjustable sleeves (102), and a mechanism for converting the jacket into a sleeping bag using a chain socket (105). A thermoelectric module (116) powers both the heating and cooling system, regulated by a microcontroller (114) and temperature sensors (115) to ensure precise temperature control. Air circulation is facilitated by hollow tubes (106, 107, & 108) connected to an electric fan (117), ensuring uniform temperature distribution. This suit is especially beneficial for military personnel and outdoor enthusiasts, offering adaptability to extreme weather conditions while maximizing both comfort and efficiency.

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Patent Information

Application #
Filing Date
24 October 2024
Publication Number
49/2024
Publication Type
INA
Invention Field
TEXTILE
Status
Email
Parent Application

Applicants

IIT Guwahati Technology Innovation and Development Foundation
4th Floor, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Research Building, IIT Guwahati, Guwahati, Assam, India - 781039

Inventors

1. DHULEKAR, Abhijeet
Vishwa Prabha Colony, Shegaon Before Tulzabhavani Mangal Karyalaya, Amravati, Maharashtra, India - 444604
2. DIXIT, Uday Shanker
D-206, Department of Mechanical Engineering · Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati, India - 781039
3. SHARMA, Faladrum
Natun Sarania (hill side), Gandhibasti, House no. 45, Bye lane 1A, Guwahati, Assam, India - 781003

Specification

Description:TECHNICAL FIELD OF INVENTION

The present invention is related to the field of mechanical and thermal engineering. More specifically, it relates to a flexible hooded warm and cooling jacket with convertible sleeping bag.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The background information herein below relates to the present disclosure but is not necessarily prior art.

The Present invention provides comfort to the entire body in both the coldest and hottest weather conditions, providing significant benefits to human beings while enhancing work efficiency. This utility model aims to protect the human body in harsh weather conditions. Many individuals use thick warm jackets for daily use in cold countryside areas where the weather is typically unpredictable, and the temperature is offending below 0 °C. Such thick jackets are not comfortable at the workstation and sometimes they are insufficient to normalize the body temperature. People have relied on conventional heaters and air conditioning systems to manage the temperature, but it is limited to confined areas. There are other prior art matches with the present invention, which comprises heating coil as a heating agent, but it emits heat radiation to the body. Prolonged exposure to radiation can be detrimental to individuals' health.

First, climate change has a substantial effect on living conditions. Second, humans have been expanding their exploration and habitation all over the world including regions with extreme weather such as Dubai and Russia. Therefore, considering these reasons, this invention is imperative for individuals. This utility model is specially designed for those working in extreme conditions, such as military troops, archaeologists, and trackers etc. The trend of exploring nature (underwater or on ground) is constantly increasing, therefore it is crucial to make the human body sustainable below 0°C and over 34°C. Furthermore, carrying an air conditioner during fieldwork in an open environment is not feasible, and same for heating devices. Thus, this invention presents a possible solution. This new, flexible comfort garment offers greater benefits than previous heating garments in terms of health safety from radiation, consistent warmth, and cooling for the entire body. Most importantly, the heat transfer effect is spread all over the jacket due to heat conduction effect.

The temperature-changing gadget has the ability to convert cold air into warmth and warm air into cooler air. In this process, a thermoelectric generator device is utilized to change the temperature of the atmospheric air according to the desired temperature. People cannot rely on regular winter garments in cold weather. Because, in extreme cold, a normal winter jacket is inadequate in providing protection from the cold.

US20110108538A1 discloses an electrically heated garment consisting of a garment body and a heater. A rechargeable battery pack is employed to power the system, and it is inserted into the battery holder. Additionally, wind-preventing waist support is incorporated to shield against wind and serves as a protective garment for the wrist. This invention presents a method for utilizing an electrically heated garment and prevents air from going through the sleeve caps. Considering the features mentioned in the prior art are different, it also does not promise comfort for the whole body. In the present invention the upper jacket can be attached to the lower pants. Therefore, full-body protection is possible.

US7230206B1 discloses a battery-operated heated jacket. This heated jacket is powered by a battery and has removable components, including the body, sleeves, and hood. Furthermore, the jacket includes a removable liner, and this liner can be separated at the points where the sleeves and hood attach, using quick connectors. Inside the jacket, there is a pocket that houses a control box containing a microprocessor, power source, heating controls, and a media player. Despite this jacket being designed with removable garments for upper body comfort. The present invention is more advanced and provides comfort to the whole body, it consists of removable pants which join with the upper garment at waist. As trackers can use it as a sleeping bag with comforting effect. Warm and cold effects are also covered in the pants.

US20120260394A1 describes a garment that transforms into a sleeping bag to provide insulation from the elements. This garment is a hooded jacket with two side sections covering the wearer's chest, a rear portion for the back, two arm partitions, and a hood. At the bottom of the jacket, there is a detachable lower pouch that can be folded up to the back portion and hood of the jacket for detached garment storage. In the present invention, separated temperature changing device is used to change the temperature of atmospheric and use it for comfort. The garment is fabricated with multiple layers in this jacket, providing extra protection. Eventually, Thermal insulation layers are used to constrain heat transfer between the inner heat and the outer atmosphere. This invention offers significantly improved efficiency compared to previous warm jacket models.

Therefore, comparing present invention with existing prior arts, there is a clear need for a comforting suit which gives cooling and warming effects to whole body. This garment proves to be effective in any weather conditions due to its dual functionality. Firstly, it alters the temperature of the atmospheric air against outside temperature and serves as a heating and cooling agent, another functioning is to convert the jacket into a sleeping bag. Consequently, the present invention offers a flexible warming and cooling suit that ensures a comfortable feeling for the user's entire body in unsuitable weather conditions.

OBJECTIVE OF THE INVENTION

The primary objective of the present invention is to design a flexible hooded warming and cooling jacket with convertible sleeping bag.

Another objective of the invention is to give warmth and a better overall feeling for the human body. This suit comprises multiple layers of clothing, and the materials used in these clothes are designed to be air-resistant.

Yet another objective of the invention is to provide a cooling effect to the entire body. It consists of three layers, with one layer made of insulating material to prevent thermal loss.

Yet another objective of the invention is to create a suit with three removable parts: a jacket, hood, and lower attire that can be separated and rejoined with the help of a zipper.

Yet another objective of the invention is to utilize a thermoelectric thermal changer module for both heating and cooling purposes, along with a sensor to detect the temperature of hot air and cut off the current when it reaches certain limits. The temperature change device is a separate part of the garment and can be attached for use.

A further objective of the invention is that the comforting jacket is convertible into a sleeping bag. Moreover, the conditioned air can also pass to the lower garment after hose connection.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Accordingly, the following invention provides a flexible hooded warming and cooling jacket with a convertible sleeping bag, designed to maintain optimal body temperature under various weather conditions. This innovative garment comprises multiple layers, including an insulated outer layer (103), a middle layer (104a), and an inner layer (104b) made of air and water-resistant materials. The jacket features a detachable hood (101), sleeves (102), and a system for transforming into a sleeping bag by connecting the lower pouch with a zipper mechanism (105). The suit incorporates forced air circulation through hollow tubes (106, 107, and 108) to enhance thermal comfort, utilizing a thermoelectric module (116) for heating and cooling functions.

The heating and cooling system is powered by a DC battery (112) and controlled by a microcontroller (114) and a timer IC (113), which ensures efficient temperature management. Temperature sensors (115) continuously monitor the air temperature and adjust the system as necessary. An electric fan (117) circulates the altered air, directing it through a condenser tube (120) and a heat sink plate (121) to ensure optimal thermal exchange. The innovative design and functionality make this suit particularly valuable for military personnel and outdoor enthusiasts, providing adaptability in extreme weather conditions while enhancing user comfort.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWING

This invention is described by way of example with reference to the following drawings where,

Figure 1 of sheet 1 illustrated the proposed warm suit.
where,
100 denotes baffle layers
101 denotes hood and upper part of jacket,
102 denotes sleeves,
103 denotes outer layer of the garment (insulated layer),
104a denotes middle layer of garment,
104b denotes inner layer of jacket.

Figure 2 of sheet 2 illustrated the proposed warm suit jacket view.
where,
105 denotes zipper for jacket,
106 denotes inlet tube of jacket,

Figure 3 of sheet 2 illustrated the proposed warm suit lower pouch view.
where,
107 denotes outlet tube of lower pouch,
108 denotes inlet tube for pouch,
109a denotes inner first layer of lower pouch,
109b denotes second layer of pouch
110 denotes final insulated layer of pouch,
111 denotes zipper for lower pouch.

Figure 4 of sheet 3 illustrated the heating device.
where,
112 denotes DC battery,
113 denotes timer IC,
114 denotes micro controller,
115 denotes temperature sensor,
116 denotes Peltier Module (Thermoelectric Module),
117 denotes electric fan,
117a denotes fan casing,
118 denotes outlet to jacket,
119 denotes inlet of electric fan,
120 denotes condenser tube,
121 denotes heat sink plate.
122 denotes outlet of heating device,
123 denotes casing,
124 one inlet two outlet valve.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

As used in the description herein and throughout the claims that follow, the meaning of “a,” “an,” and “the” includes plural reference unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Also, as used in the description herein, the meaning of “in” includes “in” and “on” unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

The present invention is related to a flexible hooded warm and cooling jacket with a convertible sleeping bag. The aim of the invention is to provide comfort to the user’s whole body in abnormal weather conditions. This bodysuit incorporates a jacket, hood, sleeves, and pants. This versatile utility model consists of a flexible garment with a heat-changing device, which demonstrates remarkable adaptability. The suit can convert from a simple jacket to a comfortable sleeping bag during the time of rest. This transition involves combining the upper hoodie jacket with the bottom wear garment (pouch). Design features comprises a triple-layered impermeable garment that allows air from passing between two inner layers and prevent to going outside. The outer or third layer of the garment is insulated to prevent heat exchange. Due to large temperature difference between inner and atmospheric temperature heat loss happens, as per the second law of thermodynamics heat always flow from higher to lower temperature therefore insulation layer is necessary.

The inner two layers, are resistive to air not temperature, so warm and cooling effect can be experienced inside. It allows thermal conduction on the individual’s body while the outer layer prevents heat exchange between the garment's inner air and the atmospheric air. This model serves a dual purpose: to protect the body from scratch injury by enhancing the jacket's safety features, and to reinforcing its insulation effectiveness through the incorporation of multiple layers of clothing.

This comfort suit is particularly relevant to military individuals, as it is designed to protect the military individuals who work in diverse fields and challenging environments such as jungles, icy mountains, and deserts, where access to adequate facilities is not possible. These individuals should perform tasks with enduring extreme weather conditions. The Present invention is very fruitful for the targeted audience and for normal people. A heating and cooling suit is valuable in providing comfort in these extreme weather conditions, offering the ability to adapt to abnormal conditions. Main objective of this innovative garment is to maximize its efficiency while minimizing power consumption, ensuring gadget runs for prolonged period.

This invention represents an upgraded version of the conventional heating jacket with more additional features, addressing the issue of uncontrollable AC heating of a heating agent ‘Ni-chrome wire/heating coil’ that is used in the convention heating jacket. Heating of the wire solely depends on the voltage controller circuit, if circuit breakdown, then heating coil will overheat and there is a chance of catching fire in garment. In this utility model, a Peltier module is employed and incorporated into a separate casing, replacing the Ni-chrome heating agent, which does not have harmful effects to human health as it does not emit radiation. Peltier module also known as thermoelectric module, which converts electrical energy into thermal energy, providing both cooling and heating effects. The microcontroller (114) is programmed to control heating time of the Peltier module automatically. Temperature sensors continuously sense the real time temperature of flowing air.

Forced air is directed through a pipe attachment into the jacket, and an air fan along with air guiding baffle layers (100) utilized to circulate air between the garment layers. In this design, temperature-altered air is distributed to all sections of the garment. The upper garment's air can flow inside the lower portion by attaching the lower garment through pants hose with upper jacket hose. To convert the jacket into sleeping bag zippers used to tie-up jacket with lower pouch shown in Figure 2.

The heat-changing device serves multiple purposes, including functioning as a cooling conditioner and heater device as per persons’ need. Thermo-electrically heated and cooled changes the air temperature as desired and then circulates throughout the jacket, covering both the lower and upper parts of the suit, with two hollow pipes connecting these air flows into both portions. Two hollow copper tubes are utilized with condenser. The structural operation of the model uses the method of a conventional room heater and automatic clothes iron, powering (ON or OFF) automatically for heating, controlling with controller and sensor.

Transient air heating is managed with the help of a main controller board to save power supply and prevent overheating or overcooling of the air. This suit consists of three layers, with the two lower layers serving as air resistance with guiding baffle layers (100), while the third layer is insulating to prevent outer temperatures from thermal energy loss from inner air.

The preferred embodiment of this invention includes components such as a DC battery, the upper part serving as a hood, the middle part as the jacket, and the lower part as a sleeping suit garment. Hollow tubes are used to connect the jacket and lower portion, other components such as air fan, a thermoelectric module (Peltier Module), a microcontroller, and a temperature sensing circuit are incorporated into a separate device.

The full-body comfort suit possesses the ability to instantly transform the jacket into a sleeping bag. The jacket can be separated during the daytime, eliminating the need to carry additional sleeping bags, which become a tedious task during military border patrols and camping trips.

Present invention consists of multiple layers suit, designed for a specific purpose to enhance the efficiency of its warming capabilities. The outer layer utilized as a thermal barrier between inner air temperature and outer atmospheric temperature, as its function is similar as thermal-resistant clothing. Such type of clothes used in firefighting departments. Two inner layers made up of nylon polyester material that is air and water resistive, comfort suit is ingeniously tailored to facilitate a continuous flow of air between these two layers. The body experiences thermal effects from the flowing air because of thermal conduction.

Firstly, atmospheric air is sucked using fan and transfer into the heating or cooling tube which is also known as hollow copper tube (120), electric fan (117) has inlet and outlet port on its casing, when the fan starts spinning, air gets sucked and comes from fan inlet port (119). After that air passes through the condenser tube (120) while passing through the tube the air changes its temperature. It happens due to conduction heat transfer. A heat sink plate (121) transfer heat from thermoelectric module to the condenser tube, due to its thermal conductivity heating thermal energy exchange to the flowing air. Heat sink plates are thermal conduction capability attached to both sides of the Peltier module, all this assembly is isolated into the casing (123) to avoid the thermal energy loss. These plates consist of fins that takes the energy from source (Peltier Module) and gets passes over the condenser tube (120) which is placed to its opposite side. Thermally changed air comes out form the copper condenser tube and later enter into the jacket from an Intel tube (106) and flows around the human body. Despite the fact that blown air is unable to spread temperature equally to all corner areas, however due to the convention heat transfer air temperature will be equalized. Two condenser tubes are used because the Peltier module generates heating effects on one side and cooling effect on the other side. Therefore, to change the outlet temperature from heating to cooling, air needs to flow from the other side of the module. Separate condenser tube is utilized in this system, and the valve (124) is used to control the direction of the air. This comprises of one air inlet port and two outlet ports, both are connected to this two-condenser tube separately shown in Figure 4. If the user wants to change the thermal effect from warm to cooling, he needs to turn the knob of the valve, it will change the direction of air flow. Then air will pass through the other side of the module.

In the proposed heating element, a single heating device and a fan are used to circulate air throughout the entire suit. The blown air is distributed between the two inner air-resistant layers, identified as (104a and 104b), which in the prior art are made from nylon polyester fabric (similar to umbrella fabric). Both of these layers are resistive to air and water, while still provide the thermal effect to the user’s body.

The external layer, designated as (103), serves as insulation, reducing thermal heat transfer and aiding in the retention of heat within the inner garment air, preventing heat energy loss to the surrounding atmosphere. This insulated layer is a straightforward addition to the present invention, designed to offer additional protection to the suit, as there is a higher chance of scratches and cuts that could diminish the efficiency of the jacket. This additional layer provides the additional protection against scratches and cuts.

Furthermore, the invention includes sockets provided on jacket as well as on the pants, so jacket can close using a zipper (105) as conventional winter jackets. Also to connect the jacket with lower pouch using another zipper (111). The airflow passes in a manner that covers the entire body in a single cycle: it starts from inlet tube hose (106), then exits from jacket outlet hose (109b), and then enters into the lower pouch through the pants inlet hose (108). After circulating it in the lower portion, the air returns to the temperature changing device through pants outlet hose (107) shown in Figure 2 and Figure 3.

Within the jacket, the airflow covers all the areas, facilitating heat transfer from air to air through convection heat transfer. In this invention, the warm effect can be distributed all around the jacket through hot air circulation, ensuring even heat distribution on all sides through convection heat transfer.

In the heating device, as depicted in Figure 4, battery (112) serves as the main power source to all components of the system. Consistently gives power to an electric fan (117). However, periodic DC power supply given to thermoelectric module (116) external AC power supply can also be provide since capacitor (114) incorporated in the system that changes AC supply to DC, and then provides power to the thermoelectric module and power supply time is controlled by a timer circuit known as 555 IC (113). It supplies power for a specific time period and then automatically cuts to the power supply to prevent overheating and overcooling, to avoid the overheating or overcooling. It helps to save power consumption. Temperature circuit (115) used as feedback controller helps to maintain constant temperature inside the suit. The temperature sensors constantly senses the temperature of the air, if it exceeds over the limit, controller shuts down the power passing to the Peltier module.

Additional advantages and modifications may readily arise from operating the thermoelectric heating module on a DC supply and maintaining a constant temperature in the garment with the help of temperature sensors and microcontroller. Therefore, the invention, in its broader aspect, is not limited to the specific details and representative embodiments shown and described herein. Accordingly, various modifications can be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the general invention concept, as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

Working of the present embodiment:

An insulated outer layer (103) materials that prevent thermal exchange between the interior and exterior environments; a middle layer (104a) air and water-resistant materials that facilitate airflow while maintaining comfort; an inner layer (104b) of breathable fabric that enhances moisture management and thermal insulation; a detachable hood (101) to provide additional warmth and protection for the user's head; and sleeves (102) adjustable cuffs to accommodate varying wrist sizes and improve thermal retention. The garment also includes a lower pouch designed to convert the jacket into a sleeping bag, characterized by an inner first layer (109a) that serves as a barrier to retain heat, a second layer (109b) provide flexibility and comfort, and a final insulated layer (110) for added insulation. A zipper mechanism (105) facilitates the secure attachment and detachment of the jacket and lower pouch for easy conversion between the jacket and sleeping bag.

The system is powered by a thermoelectric module (Peltier Module) (116), which operates on a direct current (DC) battery (112) and is characterized by its capability to provide both heating and cooling functions. An electric fan (117), comprising an inlet port (119) and an outlet port (118), circulates air throughout the garment, enhancing thermal regulation. A plurality of hollow tubes (106, 107, & 108) connects the electric fan (117) to the thermoelectric module (116), facilitating the flow of temperature-modified air between the upper and lower sections of the jacket.

Additionally, a microcontroller (114) manages the operation of the thermoelectric module (116) and electric fan (117) based on real-time feedback from temperature sensors (115) integrated within the garment. The temperature sensing circuit (115) monitors the internal air temperature and provides continuous feedback to the microcontroller (114) to maintain a predetermined comfort level. The structural arrangement of the garment allows air to be drawn into the system through the inlet port (119) of the fan (117), subsequently passing through the condenser tube (120) for temperature modification and distributing the conditioned air through the inlet tube (106) into the jacket, ensuring uniform thermal effects are delivered throughout both the jacket and lower pouch.

The temperature-altering suit is greatly helpful during camping and trekking. With the additional feature of a heating hood, and the jacket can be instantly converted into a sleeping bag with the help of a Zipper. This invention utilizes an air fan to blow air forcefully throughout the entire garment. The use of this comfortable garment eliminates the need to carrying the separate sleeping bag. Working of this invention is as follows: After turning on the power supply, power goes from battery to thermoelectric module and the pneumatic fan, the microcontroller board controls the power supply to all components. Then, the thermoelectric module changes the air temperature and gets warmed or cooled and is passes into the whole garment, covering the entire jacket area and lower pouch area.

The structural arrangement of the utility model is specified such that the outlet tube of the thermoelectric device assembly is connected to the inlet tube of the jacket, through which warm or cool air is inserted into the jacket and then continuously passed into the hood and other portions. The same air goes into the lower portion of the garment. Once the cycle completes, the same air passes through the condenser tube for reheating or recooling. In this invention, the problem of uneven heating or cooling of the body can be resolved because as the overall garment gets filled with the air, and the thermals effect also spread equally due to the convection effect.

This gadget is more capable than traditional heating jackets due to its thermal changing device. This device is able to provide heating and cooling effects without any modification. Moreover, it can be reuse after recharging, like any other electronic devices, providing a convenient and versatile solution for heating and cooling.

While various embodiments of the present disclosure have been illustrated and described herein, it will be clear that the disclosure is not limited to these embodiments only. Numerous modifications, changes, variations, substitutions, and equivalents will be apparent to those skilled in the art, without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure, as described in the claims.
, Claims:1. A flexible hooded warm and cooling jacket with convertible sleeping bag, comprising of;

an insulated outer layer (103), characterized by materials that prevent thermal exchange between the interior and exterior environments;

a middle layer (104a), comprising air and water-resistant materials that facilitate airflow while maintaining comfort;

an inner layer (104b), consisting of breathable fabric that enhances moisture management and thermal insulation;

a detachable hood (101), configured to provide additional warmth and protection for the user's head;

sleeves (102), characterized by adjustable cuffs to accommodate varying wrist sizes and improve thermal retention;

a lower pouch designed to convert the jacket into a sleeping bag, characterized by;
an inner first layer (109a) that serves as a barrier to retain heat;
a second layer (109b), wherein the combined materials provide flexibility and comfort; and
a final insulated layer (110) for added insulation;

a zipper mechanism (105), wherein said mechanism facilitates the secure attachment and detachment of the jacket and lower pouch for easy conversion between jacket and sleeping bag;

a thermoelectric module (Peltier Module) (116), powered by a direct current (DC) battery (112), characterized by its capability to provide both heating and cooling functions;

an electric fan (117), comprising an inlet port (119) and an outlet port (118) that circulate air throughout the garment, enhancing thermal regulation;

a plurality of hollow tubes (106, 107, 108) connected to the electric fan (117) and the thermoelectric module (116), wherein said tubes are configured to facilitate the flow of temperature-modified air between the upper and lower sections of the jacket;

a microcontroller (114), configured to manage the operation of the thermoelectric module (116) and electric fan (117) based on real-time feedback from temperature sensors (115) integrated within the garment; and

a temperature sensing circuit (115), characterized by its ability to monitor the internal air temperature and provide continuous feedback to the microcontroller (114) to maintain a predetermined comfort level;

2. The flexible hooded warm and cooling jacket with convertible sleeping bag as claimed in claim 1, wherein the structural arrangement of said garment allows air to be drawn into the system through an inlet port (119) of the fan (117), subsequently passing through the condenser tube (120) for temperature modification, and distributing the conditioned air through the inlet tube (106) into the jacket, ensuring that uniform thermal effects are delivered throughout both the jacket and lower pouch.

Documents

Application Documents

# Name Date
1 202431080913-FORM 1 [24-10-2024(online)].pdf 2024-10-24
2 202431080913-DRAWINGS [24-10-2024(online)].pdf 2024-10-24
3 202431080913-COMPLETE SPECIFICATION [24-10-2024(online)].pdf 2024-10-24
4 202431080913-FORM-26 [25-10-2024(online)].pdf 2024-10-25
5 202431080913-FORM-5 [07-11-2024(online)].pdf 2024-11-07
6 202431080913-FORM 3 [07-11-2024(online)].pdf 2024-11-07
7 202431080913-ENDORSEMENT BY INVENTORS [07-11-2024(online)].pdf 2024-11-07
8 202431080913-FORM-9 [28-11-2024(online)].pdf 2024-11-28
9 202431080913-FORM 18 [28-11-2024(online)].pdf 2024-11-28