Abstract:
A sportswear cooling system for enhancing physical activity for a wearer is provided which has a first compartment containing a cooling solution and a second compartment containing water. The first compartment is positioned within the second compartment and the walls of the first compartment are adapted to be ruptured so that when the cooling solution and water combine an endothermic reaction is produced calculated to cool a portion of the body upon application.

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION(S) 
       [0001]    The present application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/322,402 filed on Apr. 14, 2017, entitled “SPORTSWEAR COOLING SYSTEM” the entire disclosure of which is incorporated by reference herein. 
     
    
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     1. Field of the Invention 
       [0002]    The present invention relates to the field of wearable health and fitness sportswear. The invention provides a cooling function by targeting pulse point cooling areas and is designed to advance cooling of the body for faster recovery. 
       2. Description of Related Art 
       [0003]    Overheating and body temperature fluctuations are common as a result of strenuous exercise. Overheating can increase fatigue and decrease productivity in athletic performance. When one experiences such feelings, it is common to bring a cool surface into contact with the body to absorb heat and to cool the overall temperature of the body. Devices that are useful for such purposes are known in the art as “cold packs”. For example, use of ammonium nitrate and water to initiate endothermic reactions for providing cooling effects have been widely discussed in the field of art. 
         [0004]    Attempts have been made to utilize existing cold pack technology for different applications. However, existing cold packs are often cumbersome to use, and fail to stay securely in contact with a body part resulting in inefficient temperature reduction. 
         [0005]    Vigorous exercise boosts one&#39;s body temperature and overall heat output production. As one&#39;s muscles warm up, blood circulating through the muscles is also heated and circulated throughout the entire body. This process produces an overall rise in core temperature. In comparison to other cooling products on the market that use passive cooling techniques, the present invention uses a small-targeted area cooling system that strives to maximize the cooling process at a core temperature level. This approach helps people stay cool, fight fatigue, and increases productivity during their workouts, hikes, runs, bike rides, and other strenuous activities. 
         [0006]    Based on the foregoing, there is a need in the art for a device that places activated cooling capsules on targeted areas of the body, which allow the body to efficiently release energy, and accelerate the cooling of the overall body temperature during intense or extended periods of physical activity. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0007]    For a more complete understanding of the present invention, the objects and advantages thereof, reference is now made to the ensuing descriptions taken in connection with the accompanying drawings briefly described as follows. 
           [0008]      FIG. 1  is a side elevation view of the wristband on an arm, in an embodiment of the invention. 
           [0009]      FIG. 2  is a bottom plan view of the wristband on an arm, in an embodiment of the invention. 
           [0010]      FIG. 3  is a bottom plan view of the compression sleeve on an arm, in an embodiment of the invention. 
           [0011]      FIG. 4  is a side elevation view of the compression sleeve on an arm, in an embodiment of the invention. 
           [0012]      FIG. 5  is a front cutaway view of the insulating cooling pocket, in an embodiment of the invention. 
           [0013]      FIG. 6  is a side cutaway view of the insulating cooling pocket, without capsule inserted, in an embodiment of the invention. 
           [0014]      FIG. 7  is a top cutaway view of the cooling capsule, in an embodiment of the invention. 
           [0015]      FIG. 8  is a front cutaway view of the cooling capsule in an embodiment of the invention. 
           [0016]      FIG. 9  is a side cutaway view of the cooling capsule in an embodiment of the invention. 
           [0017]      FIG. 10  is a side cutaway view of unidirectional cooling design with capsule inserted in an embodiment of the invention. 
           [0018]      FIG. 11  is a front cutaway view of the unidirectional cooling design cooling capsule inserted in an embodiment of the invention. 
           [0019]      FIG. 12  is a bottom view of the compression sleeve with cooling capsule in an embodiment of the invention. 
           [0020]      FIG. 13  is a top cutaway view of the compression sleeve with cooling capsule in an embodiment of the invention. 
           [0021]      FIG. 14  is a bottom plane view of the compression sleeve with cooling capsule in an embodiment of the invention. 
           [0022]      FIG. 15  is a bottom plane view of the compression sleeve with cooling capsule in an embodiment of the invention. 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS 
       [0023]    Preferred embodiments of the present invention and their advantages may be understood by referring to  FIGS. 1-15  wherein like reference numerals refer to like elements. 
         [0024]    With reference to  FIGS. 1-15 , the present invention pertains to athletic sportswear, compression sleeves and wristbands that contain pockets where an instant, replaceable cooling capsule  115  can be inserted. This invention also discloses a method for insertion and removal of cooling capsules from athletic sports gear designed to cool an athlete&#39;s core body temperature during physical activity. The pockets are located on the bottom side of the wrist (near where pulse rate may be measured), or near another targeted cooling area  25 . The pockets are specially designed with an insulating material that lies over the exterior of the capsule  115  and a thin mesh material below. This design allows the endothermic process occurring within the capsule to maximize the cooling effects on the circulating blood. The instant cooling capsule is comprised of ammonium nitrate  50  and water  105  in two or more separate compartments. Once a small force of pressure activates the cooling capsule  115 , the water  105  compartment  110  will break, flowing into the ammonium nitrate chamber. The energy released by the solvation of the ammonium ions and nitrate ions is less than the energy absorbed in breaking up the ammonium nitrate ionic lattice and the attractions between water  105  molecules. This combination of the two elements will create an endothermic reaction creating a cooling effect. The strategic placement and location of the cooling capsules on one&#39;s body allows for cooled blood to re-circulate and lower the body&#39;s overall temperature in a quick and efficient manner. These cooling capsules may be placed on other body parts such as the forehead, temples, ankles, and neck. 
         [0025]    With reference to  FIG. 1  and  FIG. 2 , a wristband  95  with a targeted cooling area  25 , which can be worn while exercising, is shown. In one embodiment, the wristband is shown with an elastic insulating pocket  5 . The wristband is shaped in a manner that allows for the maximum surface area of the cooling capsule  115  to be placed flush against the user&#39;s wrist. The wristband can be designed with Spandex™ elasticity to form fit around the wearer&#39;s arm to further maximize surface area contact with the capsule  115 . In some embodiments, the wristband is stretched over the hand and onto the wrist. In another embodiment, the wristband can be attached around the forearm with use of a clasp, VELCRO™, or other fastening device(s). Further, stitching is minimally visible to allow for a tight fit around the forearm of the user to keep the wristband in place during periods of intense and rapid physical motion. In an embodiment, the ultraviolet protection factor (UPF)  10  is interwoven into the wristband to provide the user protection from harmful UV rays while enjoying outdoor activities. In  FIG. 2 , a bottom planar view with targeted cooling area  25  and elastic opening  20  is shown. In some embodiments, the wristband is composed of a UPF  10  material and also composed of hydravent moisture wicking technology  15  to pull moisture away from the skin. In some embodiments the hydravent technology  15  is composed of an inner layer made of hydrophobic synthetic fiber bonded to an outer layer. An optimized blend of hydrophobic and hydrophilic fibers will speed up drying time. In other embodiments, the fibers can be composed of polyester, spandex, or LYCRA™ material to help wick moisture. In an embodiment, the wristband or compression sleeve includes a visual display that conveys information about cooling time, such as how much has transpired, or how much longer cooling will proceed. 
         [0026]    With reference to  FIG. 3  and  FIG. 4 , an embodiment of a compression sleeve shows the form fitting fabric material  30  and elastic insulating pocket  5 . In an embodiment, the lower third of the compression sleeve contains a reinforced elastic layer to provide a secure fit closer to the user&#39;s wrist. The compression sleeve will go from the user&#39;s wrist up to the shoulder region. In some embodiments, the compression sleeve can further be reinforced and tightened through use of a VELCRO™ strap or other fastener. In an embodiment, the fabric material is DRI-FIT™. The contour and placement of the pocket provides for a secure and snug fit of the cooling capsule against the user&#39;s wrist. In one embodiment, the stitching allows for a comfortable fit and provides a mesh pocket base  35  to reduce the weight of the pocket. The ultraviolet protection factor  10  (UPF) is present along with the hydravent moisture wicking material  15  across the entirety of the compression sleeve to provide maximal protection against UV rays. 
         [0027]    Outdoor physical activity subjects people to UV rays, often for extended periods of time when hiking, running, or performing other physical activities. The targeted cooling area  25  is located inside of the elastic insulating pocket  5 . Said elastic insulating pocket  5  provides an elastic opening  20  for the cooling capsule  115  to be inserted inside the targeted cooling area  25 . In an embodiment, the compression sleeve is form fitting fabric material  30  and contains an elastic opening  20  with reflective material near the targeted cooling area  25 , in which the replaceable capsules can be inserted. The opening allows for efficient thermal energy transfer and for the placement of noninvasive capsules to increase comfort, mobility, and range of motion. 
         [0028]    In an embodiment, with reference to  FIG. 5 , the targeted cooling exterior pocket  40  is white in color in order to inhibit heat absorption and to increase cooling capsule  115  effectiveness duration. In another embodiment, the targeted area can be any reflective color to function to alert drivers if the user is running at night or hiking in the dark. The targeted cooling area  25  may have a reflective outer layer, which can reflect UV rays and energy from the sun. 
         [0029]    With reference to  FIG. 5  and  FIG. 6 , an embodiment provides for an elastic insulating exterior pocket  40  which may be stretched apart from the mesh pocket base  35  so the cooling capsule  115  can sit in between. The elastic insulating exterior pocket  40  stretches to make it easier for the user to remove and insert cooling capsules. The elastic insulating exterior pocket  40  provides insulation via its composition of synthetic materials, providing resistance to heat transfer from the natural surroundings. In an embodiment, a radiant barrier helps prevent the exterior pocket from exposure to mold or mildew which can commonly be found in active sports wear found in the market after excessive use. The insulating exterior pocket also reduces capsule  115  movement during periods of intense physical activity. The elastic insulating exterior pocket  40  is located in a functional location for mobility. Additionally, the cooling pocket has dense elastic moisture wicking exterior to further insulate a replaceable cooling capsule  115 . The mesh pocket base  35  provides a lightweight support for holding the cooling capsule  115  in place and allows for a larger surface area in which the thin endothermic transfer layer  80  can make contact with the user as opposed to traditional cotton, nylon, or other materials. In an embodiment, there is a gel base layer affixed to the mesh pocket base  35  which the capsule  115  may rest on. The gel base layer can slow the cooling process of the cooling capsule  115  by providing a barrier between the cooling capsule and heat from the body or environment. 
         [0030]    With reference to  FIG. 7 , a cooling capsule  115  is shown. In an embodiment, the cooling solution  50  within a cooling capsule  115  can be composed of urea, ammonium nitrate, and/or water  105 . In one embodiment, the cooling solution  50  within the cooling capsule  115  is comprised of ammonium nitrate  50  and water  105  in two separate compartments. In an embodiment, a liquid solution is added to the cooling packet that changes color as the reaction takes place over a period of 20 minutes. Food dye can be added to the ammonium nitrate solution, and another dye is added to the water  105 . After the two solutions in separate compartment have been mixed, the user can see how much time has elapsed since the cooling capsule  115  has been activated based on the color change that takes place gradually over time. 
         [0031]    In another embodiment, cooling agents besides urea, ammonium nitrate, and water may be used. Further, a capsule  115  which becomes cold through a different endothermic reaction, or where a barrier dissolved in water may provide the cooling sensation to the user. 
         [0032]    In another embodiment, the capsule  115  has a digital communication system, which can connect to a smart watch or phone to alert the user that their body temperature is getting too high, or that the cooling reaction has finished. In an embodiment, the quick pull tab  60  is made of a plastic sheath which protrudes from the cooling capsule  115 . This allows a non-aqueous piece of the cooling capsule  115  to be visible to the user and not covered by the elastic insulating pocket  5 . In an embodiment, the quick pull tab  60  can be manufactured using a 3D printing durable plastic shell, which can be placed on top of the capsule  115  that can protect the capsules from impact. This visible protrusion allows the user to easily remove and replace cooling capsules when using the compression sleeves or wristbands for extended periods of time. In an embodiment, the quick pull tab  60  serves to remove the capsule  115  from the targeted cooling pocket and is capable of creating a large seal area within the targeted cooling area  25  during use to prevent gas emission or breakage during physical activity. 
         [0033]    In an embodiment, the capsule  115  is designed with insulation walls  75  and air cavities to prevent environmental penetration. In an embodiment, the capsule  115  interior wall uses a thin plastic wall to direct energy transfer to the body and away from the environment. The sleeve-cooling pocket has a thin mesh material to allow flow of energy between the body and the capsule  115 . In an embodiment, the elastic cooling pocket opening closes, to protect the cooling capsule  115  from outside exposure to natural elements. 
         [0034]    In another embodiment, the cooling solution  50  is comprised of a gel substrate impregnated with a polymer gel and an antimicrobial agent. The gel substrate may have a PVA/PVP or PVA/PVA blend base. 
         [0035]    With reference to  FIG. 8 , a replaceable cooling capsule  115  is shown. In an embodiment, the capsule  115  features a unidirectional thermal energy transfer architecture in which the insulating layer is placed on top of the capsule  115  to reduce energy loss to the environment. On the bottom of the capsule  115 , a thin plastic base will allow for thermal transfer. The endothermic transfer layer  80  is flexible, and promotes a unidirectional thermal energy transfer from the user&#39;s skin. Opposite the insulation walls  75 , heat diffuses through a more porous, and flexible surface on the bottom side of the capsule  115 . In an embodiment, the endothermic transfer layer  80  is covered with a thin color film to prompt the user to place that side of the capsule  115  in towards his body. In an embodiment, the capsule  115  contains multiple layers of walls on the topside to further insulate the cooling solution  50 . Multiple paned layers on the outer walls create insulation. Embodiments in which the capsule  115  has multiple walls enable the capsule  115  to maximize reaction time and cooling benefits. The endothermic transfer layer  80  consists of a lower density material than the other capsule  115  layered walls on the opposite side to provide greater insulation for the cooling solution  50 . 
         [0036]    In another embodiment, the capsule  115  has a quick activation internal chamber to separate the two or more cooling solutions  50  located in the capsule  115 . Said quick activation chamber  55  provides stability in the capsule  115  for interstate transport to retail stores, but is easy enough to break apart without having to shake vigorously. Once the chamber has been broken, the unidirectional thermal energy transfer will provide for lower energy loss to the environment while maintaining flexibility and comfort. In an embodiment, the capsules last for 15-20 minutes in duration. 
         [0037]    With reference to  FIG. 9 , a replaceable cooling capsule  115  is shown. A feature of the device is that the capsules will be replaceable, enabling the cooling process to be repeated as frequently and as many times as necessary during physical or strenuous activity. When a cooling capsule  115  has been activated, cooled blood will circulate throughout the body, cooling the body at the core level. In an embodiment the cooling capsules shall contain a capillary system in which two aqueous solutions are unable to obtain high flow velocity. In this embodiment, the cooling capsules are able to last for longer than 20 minutes in duration. In an embodiment, the capsule  115  exterior wall (top) uses a denser material for insulation. The flexible base layer  85  of the capsule  115  allows for more of the capsule  115  to adhere to the user&#39;s body or to help avoid becoming twisted, contorted, or perpendicular to the user&#39;s wrist during strenuous physical activity. 
         [0038]    With reference to  FIG. 10  and  FIG. 12 , in an embodiment the hydravent moisture wicking material  15  is adjacent to both sides of the elastic insulating exterior pocket  40 . In an embodiment, the mesh pocket base  35  sits flush against the user&#39;s skin and adjacent to the hydravent moisture wicking material  15 . In another embodiment, the hydravent moisture wicking material  15  is also lining the mesh pocket base  35  of the elastic insulating pocket  5  to increase moisture removal capability. The elastic opening  20  can be stretched to place cooling capsule  115  in place. 
         [0039]    With reference to  FIG. 11 , in an embodiment the capsule  115  aids in the unidirectional cooling design by using a capsule interior wall to create an air cavity  70  to prevent environmental penetration and to trap energy loss from diffusing outside of the elastic insulating pocket  5 . 
         [0040]    With reference to  FIG. 7 , a process is disclosed for a method of removal and replacement of gel cooling capsules from athletic sportswear. A process for removal of ammonium nitrate and water  105  solutions within cooling capsules affixed to athletic sportswear comprising the steps of gripping said capsule  115  by a quick pull tab  60  which is permanently adjoined to the cooling capsule  115 . 
         [0041]    The process set forth wherein said quick pull tab  60  is a sheath of plastic with ribbed texture for easier removal of a cooling capsule  115  from an exterior elastic insulating pocket  40  affixed to athletic sportswear. In an embodiment, the shape of the quick pull tab  60  will be curved for comfort and also to lay flat or adjacent to the cooling pocket opening. The elastic opening  20  will close on top of the quick pull tab  60  to secure the capsule  115  in place. 
         [0042]    With reference to  FIGS. 13-15 , a dual chamber a cooling capsule  125  is shown. The outside of the capsule  125  is formed of a flexible protective wall  132 , with an optional internal chamber separation wall  138  separating the capsule  125  into two portions, an upper portion  127  and a lower portion  129 . The double portions allow the user to activate the capsules in two parts, thereby doubling the cooling duration. For instance, it may be the case that with a single portion capsule, the initial cooling may cool down the skin within, first instance, the first 10 minutes without a user feeling any additional cooling even though the capsule is still below 70° F. By introducing two activations, through two capsule portions, the capsules&#39; effects on the user may be amplified. 
         [0043]    In an embodiment, the cooling solution  48  within a cooling capsule  125  can contain urea, ammonium nitrate, and/or water. In one embodiment, the cooling solution  48  within the cooling capsule  125  is comprised of ammonium nitrate within a first compartment(s)  52  (in this embodiment there are two) and water  49  within a second compartment  54  (in this case coinciding with the walls of the capsule  125 ), these constituents in two separate compartments. There may be a plurality of compartments  52 ,  54  (more than two) for ammonium nitrate and water. In an embodiment, a liquid solution is added to the cooling packet that changes color as the reaction takes place over a period of 20 minutes or so, a similar time to the cooling effect of the capsule  125 , such that the user may gauge the length of cooling time elapsed or remaining. Food dye can be added to the ammonium nitrate solution, and/or another dye may be added to the water  54 . After the two solutions in separate compartment have been mixed, the user can see how much time has elapsed since the cooling capsule  125  has been activated based on the color change that takes place gradually over time. The ammonium nitrate  48  and water  49  can have reversed positions, wherein the cooling solution  48  is found in the second compartment  54  and the water is found in the first compartment  52 . 
         [0044]    The dual chamber capsule  125  has a pull tab  135 . Pull Tab  135  is a tool used for the wearer to easily remove the capsule from a pocket. 
         [0045]    With reference to  FIG. 14 , and in an embodiment, the capsule  125  has a top insulated wall  130  that is insulated with a double wall or otherwise, containing either insulative material such as flexible foam, or air between the layers, and may have a reflective metallized layer (not shown) on the interior to assist with reflecting the cold of the capsule  125  back into the capsule. It also has an uninsulated wall  131  on the bottom, facing the skin such that the cold is efficiently transferred to the user. In an embodiment, this bottom wall  131  is a single layer, and it may consist of a metallized surface to transfer heat energy more efficiently from the user&#39;s skin to the cold capsule  125 . 
         [0046]    The benefit of the dual chamber capsule  125  is incremental introduction of the solution for a longer cooling duration, and better mixing, obviating the need for shaking of the capsule  125 . The capsule has an instant cooling upon pressure activation. A unidirectional cooling design has a double wall insulation design at the top, to prevent energy loss to environment, and has a thin thermal transfer layer for efficient cooling, on the bottom where the capsule  125  is in contact with the user&#39;s skin. 
         [0047]    Preferred embodiments of the present invention and their advantages may be understood by referring to  FIGS. 1-15 , wherein like reference numerals refer to like elements. 
         [0048]    The invention is described using words and phrases for illustrative purposes only. Terms and phrases are intended to cover plural forms and grammatical variations and are not limiting the scope and implementation of the invention. 
         [0049]    The invention has been described herein using specific embodiments for the purposes of illustration only. It will be readily apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art, however, that the principles of the invention can be embodied in other ways. Therefore, the invention should not be regarded as being limited in scope to the specific embodiments disclosed herein.