초록 ▼

A highly flexible composite material having a flexible matrix containing a phase change thermal storage material. The composite material can be made to heat or cool the body or to act as a thermal buffer to protect the wearer from changing environmental conditions. The composite may also include an

A highly flexible composite material having a flexible matrix containing a phase change thermal storage material. The composite material can be made to heat or cool the body or to act as a thermal buffer to protect the wearer from changing environmental conditions. The composite may also include an external thermal insulation layer and/or an internal thermal control layer to regulate the rate of heat exchange between the composite and the skin of the wearer. Other embodiments of the PCM composite also provide 1) a path for evaporation or direct absorption of perspiration from the skin of the wearer for improved comfort and thermal control, 2) heat conductive pathways within the material for thermal equalization, 3) surface treatments for improved absorption or rejection of heat by the material, and 4) means for quickly regenerating the thermal storage capacity for reuse of the material. Applications of the composite materials are also described which take advantage of the composite's thermal characteristics. The examples described include a diver's wet suit, ski boot liners, thermal socks, ,gloves and a face mask for cold weather activities, and a metabolic heating or cooling blanket useful for treating hypothermia or fever patients in a medical setting and therapeutic heating or cooling orthopedic joint supports.

대표청구항 ▼

[ What is claimed is:] [1.] A thermal storage apparatus, comprising:a thermal storage composite material comprising a flexible polymer foam containing a phase change thermal storage material capable of storing thermal energy as latent heat of phase change, said phase change thermal storage material

[ What is claimed is:] [1.] A thermal storage apparatus, comprising:a thermal storage composite material comprising a flexible polymer foam containing a phase change thermal storage material capable of storing thermal energy as latent heat of phase change, said phase change thermal storage material having a high energy state and a low energy state, said phase change thermal storage material being dispersed within said flexible polymer foam of said thermal storage composite material such that said thermal storage composite material is flexible when said phase change thermal storage material is in said high energy state and said thermal storage composite material is flexible when said phase change thermal storage material is in said low energy state; anda heating device in thermal contact with said thermal storage composite material for regenerating said phase change thermal storage material within said thermal storage composite material.