WO2018165696A1

WO2018165696A1 - Dual function hydration and thermo-regulation vest or backpack

Info

Publication number: WO2018165696A1
Application number: PCT/AU2018/000033
Authority: WO
Inventors: Daniel John GREEN
Original assignee: 28 Sporting Innovations Pty. Ltd.
Priority date: 2017-03-13
Filing date: 2018-03-13
Publication date: 2018-09-20

Abstract

A hydration and thermo-regulation vest or backpack is provided. The hydration and thermo-regulation vest or backpack comprises a hydration reservoir comprising at least one pouch, the at least one pouch comprising a contact wall, that in use, contacts a wearer or the wearer's apparel. The cooling may be with cold, chilled or frozen hydration media. The heating may be with tepid, warm or hot hydration media. The thermo-regulation may be concurrent external thermo-regulation across the contact wall and internal thermo-regulation through ingestion of hydration media in the hydration reservoir. The hydration and thermo-regulation vest or backpack may comprise a contact wall, which in use, contacts a wearer or the wearer's apparel.

Description

Dual Function Hydration and Thermo-Regulation Vest or Backpack

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to a dual function hydration and thermo-regulation vest or backpack. More particularly, the present invention relates to a dual function hydration and thermo-regulation vest or backpack that provides concurrent external and internal thermo-regulation.

BACKGROUND TO THE INVENTION

[0002] Many people prefer carrying their own hydration fluid with them when exercising or travelling. This may be because there is limited availability of suitable liquid sources during their activity and they want the freedom to consume the fluid of their choice at a time of their choosing, or they may not like having to stop to drink. Hydration vests and backpacks are also a convenient way of carrying fluid that frees up the hands and allows a slightly larger volume to be carried. A wide variety of such hydration vests and backpacks are commercially available.

[0003] US 8,020,730 assigned to The North Face Apparel Corp., teaches a personal hydration system comprising a reservoir that has a plurality of compartments and optionally at least one baffle. The purpose of the at least one baffle is to provide multiple smaller compartments with the objective of reducing slosh. The baffle may be removable and have a low freezing point to allow pre-refrigeration to keep the hydration liquid cool.

[0004] US Patent No.: 7,311,231 assigned to Blackhawk Industries Product Group Unlimited LLC teaches a hydration pack with a releasable coupling. The coupling includes a shut-off or check valve that maintains the patency of the pouch when the hose is disconnected. Prefilled, removable hydration pouches may be coupled to the hose for easy substitution. This pack conveniently makes use of heated or refrigerated pouches and adds the option of the pouch including an integral thermal (cooling) medium. Pockets adjacent to the pouch may be filled with a thermal capacitance medium. The integrally cooled (or heated) pouches of US 09/653,816 and 10/043,657 are referred to. This patent discusses materials for the reservoir to be polyethylene (sold as CXC material produced by Cyclone (Logan, Utah)), urethane, polyurethane, polystyrene and nylon.

[0005] The heating of the liquid in conventional hydration backpacks from the ambient temperature or from the user is a recognised problem. It is also recognised that the heating of the hydration fluid may lead to the user drinking less than a prescribed and/or required volume that would attenuate a decline in athletic performance. [0006] UK Patent Application 2462329 to BCB International Limited teaches a backpack housing a hydration system that can be effectively cooled and a material for achieving the cooling effect. The hydration system comprises a conventional fluid reservoir coupled to an elongate hose. At least a portion of the reservoir and/or hose have a covering arranged to include a liquid absorbent material which cools by evaporative cooling. The covering comprises a first layer configured to be in thermal communication with the reservoir and/or elongate member, and a second layer including the liquid absorbent material. The liquid absorbent material consists of a matrix of liquid absorbent crystals. The liquid absorbent material may be a hydrogel. That surface of the second layer may be undulating and may include an antimicrobial portion. The liquid absorbent material can be "charged" by immersion in water or the liquid to ensure cooling.

[0007] WO 02/17745, the publication of PCT/US01/27285 to Skillern, J., teaches a hydration system with an integral thermal medium. It includes a sealable sac or pouch closely associated with a cooling and/or heating medium. One example is an outer insulating bag and an inner reservoir. This document teaches that in preparation for use, the pouch is preferably chilled or heated and then filled with liquid to be consumed. This publication teaches the importance of maintaining the fluid within the bladder or pouch at a cool (or warm) temperature. The pouch may be provided by a first bag located within a second bag with the cooling and/or heating medium provided therebetween. Alternately, it may be provided by a first sleeve within a second sleeve with cooling and/or heating medium between each. The thermal capacitance medium may be water, a gel or another material which can be repeatedly chilled and/or heated. Examples include water and propylene glycol or a cellulose ether, such as those used in commercially available gel packs for cooling and/or heating including NexpareTM and PolyBagTM. This publication also refers to US Patent No.: 5,806,726, to Ho, which teaches placing ice cubes in the reservoir.

[0008] WO 2004/033360, the publication of PCT/US2003/031283 also to Skillern, J., teaches a hydration system for a modular backpack allowing cargo components to be interchanged depending on the amount of fluid required. An articulating waist belt allows the cargo component to remain stationary relative to the wearer's back. This document mentions that conventional backpacks rest securely against the wearer's back trapping heat. A "lift off module" is provided to space the pack from the wearer's back.

[0009] WO 2004/049846, the publication of PCT/US2003/038781, to SILVER EAGLE OUTFITTERS LLC describes a method of cooling by evaporation using hydrated multi- layered composite material that is cooled by evaporation. The composite comprises a conductive layer, a filler layer, a retainer layer and, optionally, an outside protective layer. A reservoir may be included to supply water or liquid.

[0010] US Patent No. 5864880 is referred to which discloses a jersey that comprises an enclosure for the removable insertion of a liquid-filled bladder. This patent notes that because most prior art hydration backpacks are thermally isolated from the wearer's body by the clothing over which the backpack is worn, cool liquid in the reservoir has minimal cooling effect.

[0011] WO 2006/122321 to ELKINS, et al, teaches a personal cooling and hydration system which is worn by the user and provides cooling and a source of drinkable fluid. A vest and cap or other garment is worn which includes a heat transfer fluid pathway extending therethrough. The heat transfer fluid passes through the pathway and absorbs heat from the wearer. A pump is required.

[0012] An example of a commercially available hydration vest is the Mountain Hardware Fluid Race Vest. This is a running vest with a built-in hydration system (bladder and routing tube). The vest is made of a cool wicking mesh, which holds a fluid sleeve with a hydration routing tube to access drinking fluids easily. The vest is ergonomically designed and distributes the weight of the fluid sleeve, fluid and contents of the cargo storage evenly across the upper body.

[0013] Another commercially available hydration system is the 2XU XTRM Multifusion Compression Top. This product is a combined compression and hydration vest with expandable mesh pockets for a water bottle and nutrition. 'Sensor mesh' targeted panels allow airflow and breathability

[0014] An example of a multipurpose vest is the Ultimate Direction PB2.0. This vest has ten in-built pockets to hold gel packs (four pockets), a GPS and a phone device (two pockets) and electrolytes (four pockets). This vest has a quick reservoir access zipper, internal bungee, gear separation panel and pockets.

[0015] Conventional reservoirs for hydration packs are shaped with a length to width ratio typically around two:one; with dimensions of 20 to 35 cm in length and width of 10 to 20 cm. The depth of typical reservoir is generally upwards of 30 mm but can be as much as 50 mm when full of fluid and they typically have a curved rather than flat shape when full of fluid. Reservoirs are held in place using a vest or backpack which will often sit over the shoulders. [0016] Internal cooling is accomplished by taking a cold medium into the body through the mouth and includes the ingestion of cold fluids. Cold beverages ingested into the stomach readily gain heat from the body, in order to equilibrate with the surrounding tissues. The benefits of ingesting cold beverages are that they may provide cooling, deliver nutrients and promote sensory advantages while maintaining the integrity of the cardiovascular system to support athletic performance.

[0017] Fluid ingestion plays an important role in supporting exercise performance in the heat via the maintenance of fluid balance and fuel status. Beverage temperature is the major distinguishing factor influencing changes in body temperature, subsequently leading to improvements in athletic performance. In addition to the heat sink provided by cold beverages, there is also strong evidence to suggest a possible sensory effect of temperature provided by ingesting cold beverages.

[0018] A strategy devised to combat the debilitating effects of hyperthermia induced fatigue involves wearing a cooling garment. The most common garments include vests, jackets, hoods and neck-wraps. The effectiveness of these garments relies on the heat- transfer principles of conduction, convection, evaporation and radiation to temporarily offset the thermal equilibrium of the body.

[0019] Existing garment designs incorporate a number of design features to modulate the convective cooling of the torso by emphasising: i) fitted designs to increase the area of contact between the skin and the garment, ii) wet cooling to increase the rate of heat transfer between the body and the garment, and iii) silica-based gels to further promote evaporative cooling.

[0020] The practical benefit of wearing a cooling garment include that they allow athletes (including motor-sport), industrial workers, military personnel, race horses and Multiple Sclerosis patients to simultaneously cool while fulfilling desired work activities. However, the additional weight and the increase in energy cost, associated with weight-bearing activities, such as running, may have an impact on the feasibility of using a cooling garment during some of these activities. The thermoregulatory advantage achieved is largely dependent upon the duration of exposure and when the garment is used, i.e., before or during the required activity. Their use during exercise is highly dependent on how each garment can be effectively incorporated into outfits worn within regulations and without detriment to the outcome of performance.

[0021] One type of cooling vest is a phase change cooling vest. These types of cooling devices use materials that go through phase change at a specific temperature, usually higher temperatures than zero degrees Celsius. One example of this type of vest is available from First Line Technology, see: http://www.firstlinetech.com/product/std-basic- cooling-vest/.

[0022] Another type is silica-based gel cooling vests such as the Elite Sports Vest available from Arctic Heat Products Pty Ltd, established 1999, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia. The Elite Sports Vest is a pullover vest with in-built cooling panels with dimensions 500 mm (height) by 450 mm (width) to achieve cooling of the torso. To achieve the greatest cooling capacity, the vest is immersed in water for fifteen minutes to hydrate the crystals to form a gel. The vest is then placed into a freezer for subsequent use. The potential cooling capacity of the gel is greatest when frozen, as the energy required to thaw it out is high relative to the energy required to change its temperature a few degrees. The cooling capacity of the vest combines the convective cooling of the wetted vest plus the conductive cooling of the gel. The vest incorporates a Sportwool™ fabric (developed by CSIRO and marketed by Woolmark Corporation) which is designed to wick-away perspiration to increase the rate of evaporation and promote additional cooling. Four horizontal 30 mm wide enclosed pockets run over the chest and back of the torso of the wearer. The pockets contain water-absorbing gel crystals, when hydrated produce a lightweight medium which can be reused to cool (and heat). The area of skin contact of the wetted vest is more than double that of the gel pockets.

[0023] Due to its powerful heat transfer capacity, the application of ice directly to the skin has emerged as an effective cooling medium. Heat from the skin and surrounding tissues is absorbed by the ice and as a result, the ice changes to water through a process called fusion (melting). Based on the enthalpy of fusion theory, ice requires approximately eighty times more thermal energy to increase the temperature of water by one degree Celsius due to the phase-change that must occur when water changes from its solid to liquid state (at 0°C; 333.55 kJ vs. 4.18 kJ without phase change). As a result, cooling with ice may be achieved with lower amounts of skin contact area, at a faster rate and to a greater magnitude, when compared with water.

[0024] Ice offers practical advantages for cooling and can be incorporated into a range of garments to target specific regions of the body. 'Ice-like' products, such as phase-change, evaporative and silica-based gel materials provide alternative cooling options.

[0025] Ice pack cooling vests are also available. Examples include the FlexiFreeze Ice vest, Cold Shoulder Women's Vest and StaCool Under Vest http://www.stacoolvest.com/stacool-under-vest/). These products rely on cooling the external surface of the skin with inbuilt straps to maximise skin contact. The FlexiFreeze Ice vest has flexible, re-freezable and removable ice sheets containing ninety-six ice cubes housed in a washable vest. The ice sheets are insulated to the exterior of the vest by neoprene fabric to provide a soft, light weight and flexible finish. The skin is insulated from the ice by the ice sheet and mesh-lined vest. The vest is 3.5 lb (mass), less than 1 inch in thickness and has vertical zip to close and Velcro straps to secure and fit vest to torso. The Cold Shoulder Women's Vest is a women's specific vest which drapes ice over the shoulders and back. This vest is aimed at promoting increasing energy expenditure through targeting brown adipose tissue.

[0026] A commercially available example of an evaporative cooling vest is the Techniche International Hyperkewl Cooling sports Vest. This vest uses a 'Hyperkewl' material that, when immersed in water for five to ten minutes, slowly releases water to cool the body through evaporative means. The outer lining of the vest features a quilted nylon outer with water repellent inside finish. The effectiveness of the vest is dependent on rate of evaporation, so would be inefficient at cooling in environmental conditions of high humidity.

[0027] The reference to any prior art in this specification is not, and should not be taken as, an acknowledgement or any form of suggestion that the prior art forms part of the common general knowledge.

OBJECT OF THE INVENTION

[0028] It is a preferred object of the embodiments of the present invention to provide an apparatus that addresses or at least ameliorates one or more of the aforementioned problems of the prior art and/or provides a useful commercial alternative.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0029] Generally, embodiments of the present invention relate to a dual function hydration and thermo-regulation vest or backpack.

[0030] In a broad form, the invention relates to a dual function hydration and thermoregulation vest or backpack that concurrently provides both external and internal thermoregulation. This dual functionality may be provided by a hydration reservoir contact wall which directly contacts a wearer or their apparel in use and a pouch, partly formed by the contact wall, which stores media for consumption.

[0031] In one aspect, although it need not be the only or indeed the broadest form, the invention resides in a hydration and thermo-regulation vest or backpack comprising: a hydration reservoir comprising at least one pouch, the at least one pouch comprising a contact wall, that in use, contacts a wearer or the wearer's apparel.

[0032] The thermo-regulation may comprise cooling or heating. The cooling may be with cold, chilled or frozen hydration media. The heating may be with tepid, warm or hot hydration media. The thermo-regulation may be concurrent external thermo-regulation across the contact wall and internal thermo-regulation through ingestion of hydration media in the hydration reservoir. The external thermo-regulation may comprise the hydration reservoir directly physically contacting the outside surface of a user or their apparel. The internal thermo-regulation may comprise the hydration media being ingested by the user and directly physically contacting the mouth and gastro-intestinal tract.

[0033] The at least one pouch may comprise a plurality of pouches. The at least one pouch, each, or one or more, of the plurality of pouches may comprise a contact wall, which when in use, contacts a wearer or the wearer' s apparel. In a particular embodiment, the at least one pouch, each, or one or more, pouch contact wall contacts a wearer or the wearer' s apparel on one side and a hydration media on the other side.

[0034] The hydration reservoir and the at least one pouch may comprise one or more cell. The cell, each, or one or more, cell may comprise a contact wall, which when in use, contacts a wearer or the wearer's apparel. In a particular embodiment, the cell, each, or one or more, cell contact wall contacts a wearer or the wearer's apparel on one side and a hydration media on the other side.

[0035] Each contact wall may comprise a contact surface and non-contact surface.

[0036] The hydration reservoir, the pouch, each pouch and each cell may also comprise a non-contact wall. The non-contact wall comprises an internal surface and an external surface.

[0037] The hydration reservoir, each pouch and each cell may also comprise sides, a top and a bottom.

[0038] In a preferred embodiment, there is no other layer(s) between the contact wall and the wearer or their apparel.

[0039] In another preferred embodiment, the pouch retains hydration media for consumption to provide internal thermo-regulation. The hydration media may be potable media. The hydration media may comprise a fluid. The hydration fluid may comprise water or a sports drink. [0040] One or more of the cells may comprise a neck cell. A plurality of neck cells may encircle or partially encircle a neck of the wearer. The plurality of neck cells may be spaced apart.

[0041] Each cell may comprise a geometric shape. Suitable shapes comprise circular; triangular; quadrilateral; pentagonal; hexagonal; or higher order shape. In a preferred embodiment each cell comprises a hexagonal shape.

[0042] The one or more cells may comprise a network of cells.

[0043] The plurality of pouches and/or cells may be separated by one or more flex zones which allows conformation to the shape of a wearer to maximise surface area contact. Each of the flex zones may comprise a void or may comprise flexible material.

[0044] Each or one or more flex-zone may comprise a fabric void. The fabric void may improve atmospheric thermo-regulation.

[0045] The cells may comprise a network in which the flex zones are a mixture of voids and flexible material.

[0046] The maximised or substantially maximised surface area contact may be maintained, at least temporarily, with frozen hydration media.

[0047] In one embodiment, the at least one pouch may be repeatedly frozen and thawed.

[0048] In yet another embodiment, the at least one pouch may be filled with warm hydration media to help keep a person warm.

[0049] In another embodiment, the at least one pouch may be disposable.

[0050] The one or more pouch may be comprised of one or more of polyethylene (PE), Urethane, polyurethane (PU), polystyrene (PS) and Nylon. The polyurethane may comprise a thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU).

[0051] In one embodiment, the vest or backpack provides a hydration reservoir with increased or substantially increased contact surface area.

[0052] In a particular embodiment, the vest or backpack provides increased or substantially increased surface area contact in targeted areas. The targeted areas may be areas with high blood flow such as the neck and/or chest.

[0053] In a 1.5L embodiment, the reservoir may provide a surface area contact of 1,300 to 1,500 cm² with liquid hydration media or 1,000 cm² with frozen hydration media. This is a significant increase over conventional 1.5L hydration packs which provide a maximum of approximately 450 cm² (liquid state) and 200 cm² (frozen state), respectively, of surface area contact if the hydration bladder was able to be mounted directly on the wearer or wearer's apparel. [0054] In another embodiment, the hydration reservoir is integral with the vest or backpack to eliminate the need for an additional carrier. This further increases surface area contact and reduces weight.

[0055] In yet another embodiment, the one or more pouch comprises insulation on the non-contact walls to assist in maintaining the stored hydration media at a thermoregulation temperature. The insulation may comprise neoprene.

[0056] In still another embodiment, the reservoir comprises a line for hydration media flow. The line may comprise a waistband. The line may further comprise an opening for communication with a conduit. The opening may be associated with one or more line valve and or a reservoir attachment. The line may also comprise a filling point.

[0057] In yet another embodiment, the hydration and thermo-regulation vest or backpack comprises a conduit. The conduit may comprise a conduit attachment for joining and fluid communication with the reservoir attachment. The conduit may further comprise a mouth piece. The mouthpiece may comprise a mouthpiece valve. The mouthpiece valve may comprise a bite valve.

[0058] In one embodiment, the apparatus comprises an athletic hydration and thermoregulation vest or backpack suitable for athletic endeavours such as, but not limited to, running, motor sports and cycling. The athletic embodiment may comprise light weight materials.

[0059] In one embodiment, the apparatus comprises a heavy-duty hydration and thermoregulation vest or backpack suitable for industrial; life-saving; military; and/or commercial endeavours, including but not limited to activities such as firefighting and mining. The industrial; life-saving; military; and/or commercial apparatus may comprise a larger reservoir and/or more durable materials.

[0060] In backpack embodiments, the backpack may comprise two shoulder straps.

[0061] In another embodiment, the vest or backpack may comprise inbuilt straps to maximise skin contact and secure in place. The inbuilt straps may be on the front and/or sides. The inbuilt straps may be adjustable. The inbuilt straps may have quick release buckles.

[0062] In yet another embodiment, the vest or backpack may comprise a zip on the front.

[0063] In still another embodiment, the pouch may comprise a capacity of 2 to 20 litres. Where the capacity is in the range of 5 to 20 litres, the vest or backpack may provide weight training. In the weight training embodiment, the cells may be thicker. A user could fill pouch to a desired volume/weight for resistance training. [0064] In a second aspect, the invention resides in a method for thermo-regulation of a subject comprising applying to the subject a vest or backpack comprising a hydration reservoir, the hydration reservoir comprising at least one pouch, the at least one pouch comprising a contact wall that contacts a wearer or the wearer's apparel to thereby thermo- regulate the subject. The subject may be a human subject or a non-human subject. The thermo-regulation may be in relation to athletic performance, work or safety, or in relation to medical or therapeutic treatment. The method of the second aspect may use the vest or backpack according to the first aspect.

In a third aspect, the invention resides in method of manufacturing a hydration and thermoregulation vest or backpack comprising providing a hydration reservoir comprising at least one pouch comprising a contact wall that in use contacts a wearer or the wearer's apparel. The vest manufactured according to the third aspect may be the vest or backpack according to the first aspect.

[0065] Further aspects and/or features of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed description.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0066] In order that the invention may be readily understood and put into practical effect, reference will now be made to embodiments of the present invention with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein like reference numbers refer to identical elements. The drawings are provided by way of example only, wherein:

[0067] Fig. 1A is a front perspective view of a hydration and thermo-regulation vest according to one embodiment of the invention.

[0068] Fig. IB is side view of a hydration and thermo-regulation vest according to one embodiment of the invention.

[0069] FIG. 1C is a partial side perspective view according to one embodiment of the invention.

[0070] FIG. ID is a front perspective view according to one embodiment of the invention.

[0071] FIG. IE is another front perspective view according to one embodiment of the invention.

[0072] FIG. IF is a side perspective view according to one embodiment of the invention.

[0073] FIG. 1G is another front perspective view according to one embodiment of the invention.

[0074] FIG. 1H is a front view according to one embodiment of the invention. [0075] FIG. II is another side view according to one embodiment of the invention.

[0076] FIG. 1 J is another side view according to one embodiment of the invention.

[0077] FIG. 2A is a top perspective view of part of a reservoir according to one embodiment of the invention.

[0078] FIG. 2B is a top view of part of a reservoir according to one embodiment of the invention.

[0079] FIG. 3A shows an embodiment for testing according to one embodiment of the invention.

[0080] FIG. 3B shows the embodiment of FIG. 3A with tubes for drinking attached.

[0081] FIG. 4A shows four prototype vests in a zipped arrangement.

[0082] FIG. 4B shows four prototype vests in which the top vest is in an unzipped arrangement.

[0083] FIGS. 5A; 5B; 5C; 5D; 5E and 5F are photographs showing a prototype vest according to one embodiment of the invention in use.

[0084] Skilled addressees will appreciate that elements in the drawings are illustrated for simplicity and clarity and have not necessarily been drawn to scale. For example, the relative dimensions of some elements in the drawings may be distorted to help improve understanding of embodiments of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0085] The present invention relates to a dual function hydration and thermo-regulation vest or backpack. Advantageously, the dual function hydration and thermo-regulation vest or backpack of the invention concurrently provides both external and internal thermoregulation. The thermo-regulation may be concurrent external thermo-regulation across the contact wall and internal thermo-regulation through ingestion of hydration media in the hydration reservoir.

[0086] The present invention is at least partly predicated on the inventors' unexpected discovery that placing the hydration reservoir directly in contact with the wearer, or their apparel, efficiently thermo-regulates the wearer. This thermo-regulation may be of particular advantage in sporting endeavours, including elite competition. Other applications include as workwear or safety apparel in high or low temperature environments such as, mine sites or cold rooms.

[0087] Conventional hydration vests and backpacks provide a thick and insulated barrier between the skin and the hydration reservoir. Often, insulation or padding is provided that means frozen hydration media remains solid and will not flow for consumption even after desired by a wearer. The design of current hydration reservoirs is not targeted at providing contact area, let alone maximising any contact, and if a hydration reservoir was actually able to be mounted directly onto the skin, or apparel, without the use of an accompanying pack, it would have an approximate contact area of between 300 and 400 cm² due to its shape. This contact area would decrease even more if the hydration media inside the reservoir was frozen as current reservoirs consist of a single chamber that would not be able to flex and conform to the shape of the body.

[0088] Advantageously, the apparatus of the invention may cover an increased wearer surface area. This optimises peripheral thermo-regulation through conduction with the skin. By providing efficient heat exchange with the wearer, the vest or backpack of the invention provides enhanced external thermo-regulation. The user is also able to consume the contents of the reservoir which may provide significant internal thermo-regulation following the ingestion of hydration media. Additional thermo-regulation of the wearer may be achieved by cooling or heating the hydration media.

[0089] The hydration media may be frozen to provide additional cooling. As the frozen hydration media cools the wearer, it will transition to a liquid state in which it can flow and be ingested. Due to this possible phase transition, the hydration media may interchangeably be referred to as hydration fluid.

[0090] The vest or backpack of the invention has been designed specifically with the aim of providing thermo-regulation through two methods: externally via conduction; and internally via the ingestion of cold or cool hydration media. To obtain maximal external thermo-regulation through conduction, the design may maximise the wearer contact area, with particular attention to areas with high blood flow such as, the chest and neck areas.

[0091] The external thermo-regulation may comprise the hydration reservoir directly physically contacting the outside surface of a user or their apparel. The internal thermoregulation may comprise the hydration media being ingested by the user and directly, physically contacting the mouth and gastro-intestinal tract.

[0092] The reservoir is designed to be mounted on the body without the use of a separate enclosure so it sits directly on the skin or over the top of apparel, preferably, thin lightweight apparel which does not provide any significant thermal insulation between the skin and the reservoir.

[0093] Further to this, in one embodiment, the reservoir has been specifically designed to contain a network or plurality of hydration cells which provides flexibility, enabling it to conform to the shape of the wearer and retain maximum contact area with the skin even when the contents are frozen solid.

[0094] While in the fluid form, in one embodiment, the reservoir has been designed to provide a surface area contact of 1,300 to 1,500 cm² for a 1.5L reservoir. This is in comparison to conventional current 1.5L hydration pack which is 31cm x 15cm and provides a maximum of 450 cm² of surface area contact if it was actually mounted directly against the skin without the use of the pack.

[0095] Using the same 1.5L design but in a frozen state, in one embodiment the design of the current reservoir permits skin surface area contact of 1,000 cm², compared to the standard shape reservoir providing less than 200 cm².

[0096] Significantly, the pouch retains hydration media for consumption to provide internal thermo-regulation. The hydration media may be potable media. The hydration media may comprise a fluid. The hydration fluid may comprise water or a sports drink. The hydration media may be frozen.

[0097] FIGS. 1A to 1J show embodiments of a hydration and thermo-regulation vest 100 according to the invention. Vest 100 comprises a reservoir 140 which can be filled with a hydration media. The hydration media is retained in reservoir 140 by pouch 142.

[0098] In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1A to 1J, pouch 142 comprise a plurality of cells 144. Each cell 144 comprises a contact wall 146, which when in use, contacts a wearer or the wearer' s apparel.

[0099] By having the contact wall 146 of a cell 144 or pouch 142 directly in communication or heat exchange with the wearer, or wearer' s apparel, the external thermoregulation effect achieved by the hydration media in reservoir 140 is advantageously more efficient. That is, there are no other layers between the contact wall 146 and the wearer or wearer's apparel.

[00100] In other embodiments, hydration reservoir 140 comprises one or more pouches

142, for example, front and back pouches 142 or a single back pouch 142. Each pouch 142 may be comprised of a plurality of cells 144 or may comprise a singe cell 144.

[00101] Each of the plurality of pouches 142 and plurality of cells 144 comprise contact wall 146. Each contact wall 146 comprises a contact surface 148, which, in use, touches the wearer, or their apparel, and a non-contact surface 150 which retains the hydration media. [00102] Each of the plurality of pouches 142 and plurality of cells 144 also comprise a non-contact wall 152 which comprises an internal surface 154 which retains the hydration media and an external surface 156 which is exposed to the environment.

[00103] In the embodiments shown in FIGS. 1A to 1 J, each cell 144 also comprises sides 158, a top 160 and a bottom 162. While cells 144 in FIGS. 1A to 1J are shown to be six- sided or hexagonal, in other embodiments they may have any other suitable shape. The hexagonal shape is advantageous for the inter- fitting of cells 144.

[00104] The embodiments shown in FIGS. 1A to 1J comprise neck cells 144a. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1A, neck cell 144a is a longitudinal neck cell and when worn, forms a collar encircling or partially encircling the neck of the wearer. This longitudinal neck cell may have a releasable closure to allow it to be fitted around the neck. Examples of suitable releasable closures include a zipper and/or Velcro.

[00105] In the embodiment shown in FIGS. IB to 1 J, hydration reservoir 140 comprises a plurality of spaced apart neck cells 144a which encircle the neck of the wearer.

[00106] Although shown to comprise a hexagonal shape, each cell 144 may comprise any suitable geometric shape. Suitable shapes comprise circular; triangular; quadrilateral; pentagonal; hexagonal; or higher order shape.

[00107] In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1A to 1J, cells 144 are separated by one or more flex zone 170, which allows conformation to the shape of a wearer to maximise surface area contact. This maximised surface area contact may be maintained, at least temporarily, with frozen hydration media. The embodiments shown in the figures illustrate flex zones 170 to be comprised of voids in vest 100. In other embodiments, flex-zones 170 may be flexible material such as, materials used in athletic apparel such as, Lycra®. In other embodiments, flex zones 170 may be a combination of voids and flexible material.

[00108] The flex zones 170 are also shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B, which show a close up of the network of cells 144 joined by line 102 which carries the hydration media from storage to the user for ingestion.

[00109] Although not shown in the Figures, one or more of flex zones 170 may comprise a fabric void. Advantageously, the fabric voids may improve atmospheric thermo-regulation.

[00110] The line 102 joins each cell 144 so that hydration media can be delivered to a wearer. The flow of the hydration media is mainly by gravity and may be assisted by wearer movement and suction applied through conduit 180 by the wearer. [00111] A skilled persona readily understands that for the hydration media to flow along the line, it must not be solid or frozen. Any necessary thawing would result from use and heat transfer across the contact wall 146 and/or the non-contact wall 152.

[00112] As shown in the embodiments of FIGS. 1A to 1J, line 102 comprises a waistband 104. The waistband 104 may aid in achieving a comfortable fit and reducing or eliminating undesirable movement.

[00113] Line 102 further comprises a line opening 106 for communication with conduit 180. Line opening 102 may be associated with one or more line valve 108 (not shown) and or a reservoir attachment 110. The line 102 may also comprise a filling point 112 (not shown) for filing with hydration media.

[00114] Conduit 180 further comprises a conduit attachment 182 and a mouth piece 186. The conduit attachment 182 may comprise a conduit attachment valve 184 (not shown). The mouthpiece 186 may also comprise a mouthpiece valve 188. The mouthpiece valve 188 may comprise a bite valve.

[00115] Although not shown, in other embodiments, the one or more pouch 140 comprises insulation 164 on the non-contact walls 152 to assist in maintaining the stored hydration media at a thermo-regulating temperature. Each individual cell 144 may be insulated or there may be a one-piece insulation 164 covering entire pouch 142. The insulation 164 may comprise neoprene. From the teaching herein, a skilled person is readily able to select a suitably insulating material.

[00116] The embodiment shown in FIGS. 1A to 1J is particularly advantageous in that reservoir 140 is integral with the vest or backpack 100. This eliminates the need for an additional carrier which further increases surface area contact and reduces weight.

[00117] Advantageously, hydration reservoir 140, may be repeatedly frozen and thawed. Indeed, the entire vest or backpack 100 may also be repeatedly frozen and thawed.

[00118] Another advantage of the present invention is that hydration reservoir 140 or even entire backpack or vest 100, may be disposable.

[00119] The one or more pouch 140 may be comprised of one or more of polyethylene (PE), Urethane, polyurethane (PU), polystyrene (PS) and Nylon.

[00120] The line 102 may also be comprised of one or more of polyethylene (PE), Urethane, polyurethane (PU), polystyrene (PS) and Nylon. The polyurethane (PU) may comprise a thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU).

[00121] Again, from the teaching herein a skilled person is readily able to select a suitable material for one or more pouch 140 and line 102. [00122] The embodiment shown in FIGS. 1A to 1J is suitable as an athletic hydration and thermo-regulation vest or backpack 100 suitable for athletic endeavours such as, but not limited to, running, motor sports and cycling. The athletic embodiment may comprise light weight materials.

[00123] In another embodiment, the invention comprises a heavy-duty hydration and thermo-regulation vest or backpack 100 suitable for industrial; life-saving; military; and/or commercial endeavours, including but not limited to activities such as firefighting and mining. The industrial; life-saving; military; and/or commercial apparatus may comprise a larger reservoir and/or more durable materials.

[00124] In embodiments, wherein hydration reservoir 140 is comprised in a backpack 100, the backpack 100 may comprise two shoulder straps.

[00125] The vest or backpack 100 may comprise inbuilt straps (not shown) to maximise skin contact and secure it in place. These inbuilt straps may be on the front and/or sides. The inbuilt straps may be adjustable to allow fit to be fine-tuned to a wearer and may have quick release buckles.

[00126] The vest or backpack 100 may also be used in weight or resistance training. The pouch 142 may comprise a capacity of 2 to 20 litres. Where the capacity is in the range of 5 to 20 litres, the vest or backpack 100 may provide weight or resistance training. In the weight or resistance training embodiment, cells 144 may be thicker. A user may fill pouch 142 to a desired volume/weight for resistance training.

[00127] The invention also provides a method for thermo-regulation of a subject comprising applying the vest or backpack 100 to the subject. The subject may be a human subject or a non-human subject. The thermo-regulation may be in relation to athletic performance or in relation to medical or therapeutic treatment.

[00128] The invention also provides a method of manufacturing hydration and thermo- regulating vest or backpack 100 comprising disposing a hydration reservoir 140 comprising at least one pouch 142, the at least one pouch comprising a contact wall 146, so that, in use, the contact wall 146 contacts a wearer or the wearer's apparel.

[00129] From the teaching herein, a skilled person is readily able to select materials suitable to be able to be repeatedly frozen and thawed. Conveniently, when freezing is impractical or inconvenient, the reservoir may be filled with cold potable hydration fluid.

Examples

Theoretical Example [00130] The application of 300 g of ice over a surface area of 414 cm² (Ice/skin relationship of 0.724 g/cm²) was able to cool surface temperature from 33°C to 7.7°C after twenty minutes with the most rapid phase of cooling occurring in the first seven minutes after the application (Janwantanakul, P., The effect of quantity of ice and size of contact area on ice pack/skin interface temperature; Physiotherapy 95; 2009; 120-25). The same study found that the application of 0.6 kg of ice applied over the same 414 cm² surface area of skin (1.449 g/cm²) was able to cool skin temperature from 33.9 °C to 4.4 °C after twenty minutes.

[00131] The lightest proposed version of the apparatus 100 would contain an ice weight to skin surface area ratio of lg/cm². Therefore, based on the results of the above study. Apparatus 100 would expect to obtain a decrease in skin temperature of greater than 20°C within the first four minutes following application and final skin temperatures of 5-6°C within ten minutes after application. These calculations are for a subject at rest at 23°C.

[00132] FIG. 3 A shows a prototype vest 100 constructed according to one embodiment of the invention. FIG. 3B shows the same prototype with the tubes connected to allow consumption of the hydration media. During testing on a hot day with cold hydration media, the wearer felt a significant thermo-regulating (cooling) effect by both the external contact and internal consumption.

[00133] FIG. 4A is a photograph showing four prototype vests 100 in a zipped arrangement. FIG. 4B is a photograph showing the same prototype vests 100 in which the top vest 100 is in an unzipped arrangement allowing visualisation of the contact wall 146. This prototype vest was worn by elite cyclists before a major competition.

[00134] A prototype vest according to one embodiment of the invention, see FIGS. 5 A; 5B; 5C; 5D; 5E; and 5F, has recently been trialled by cyclists, race walkers and runners.

[00135] Professional cyclists wore the prototype vest shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B prior to the start, and during the initial parts, of multiple stages of the 2018 Tour Down Under in Adelaide. During this event, the temperature was regularly over 40°C and stage lengths were shortened due to the extreme weather. Cyclists who used the vest all reported feeling cooler and better prepared following its use.

[00136] Similarly, runners have recently utilised the same prototype vest while warming up for a 5,000m track race in Canberra. Both athletes reported positive feelings for having worn the vest and were able to run their best performances of recent months despite the race being conducted in hot and humid conditions. The runners also used the vest in their cool down to help return their body temperatures back to baseline as soon as possible to facilitate their recovery.

[00137] In addition to these trials by professional cyclists and competitive/elite runners, a research project was recently conducted in conjunction with the Australian Institute of Sport and the University of Canberra investigating the effectiveness of vest 100 while cycling in hot temperatures. Preliminary analysis of the data indicated that the vest was able to increase performance in a 15 -minute maximal time trial following two hours of moderate intensity cycling in the heat. The vest also appears to have reduced the core temperature, ratings of thermal sensation and the heart rate of the cyclists.

[00138] In applications where the desired thermo-regulation is cooling, the present invention is of significant advantage because it provides a reservoir for cold or cool hydration media that can be consumed by an individual and thus provides concurrent internal cooling as well as conduction cooling through surface contact. This may be as the frozen hydration media thaws, or through the consumption of cold hydration media. Although not tested to date, the similar advantages are expected to be provided when the desired thermo-regulation is heating, in which case warm or hot hydration media would be utilised.

[00139] Attention to hydration is included within the rules of many sports, which may allow for the controlled manipulation of beverage temperature. Although control of beverage temperature might only be feasible at the highest levels of competition, this invention allows all levels to benefit from the practical simplicity internal cooling offers.

[00140] The present invention advantageously combines two or more practical thermo- regulating methods to provide mutually potentiating effects on performance through enhanced heat storage and decreased thermoregulatory and cardiovascular strain.

[00141] In this specification, the terms "comprises", "comprising" or similar terms are intended to mean a non-exclusive inclusion, such that an apparatus that comprises a list of elements does not include those elements solely but may well include other elements not listed.

[00142] Throughout the specification the aim has been to describe the invention without limiting the invention to any one embodiment or specific collection of features. Persons skilled in the relevant art may realize variations from the specific embodiments that will nonetheless fall within the scope of the invention.

Claims

CLAIMS The Claims defining the invention are as follows:

1. A hydration and thermo-regulation vest or backpack comprising:

a hydration reservoir comprising at least one pouch, the at least one pouch comprising a contact wall, that in use, contacts a wearer or the wearer's apparel.

2. The hydration and thermo-regulation vest or backpack of Claim 1 wherein, the cooling is with cold, chilled or frozen hydration media.

3. The hydration and thermo-regulation vest or backpack of Claim 1 wherein the heating is with tepid, warm or hot hydration media.

4. The hydration and thermo-regulation vest or backpack of any one of the preceding Claims wherein the thermo-regulation is concurrent external thermo-regulation across the contact wall and internal thermo-regulation through ingestion of hydration media in the hydration reservoir.

5. The hydration and thermo-regulation vest or backpack of any one of the preceding Claims wherein the at least one pouch comprises a plurality of pouches.

6. The hydration and thermo-regulation vest or backpack of any one of the preceding Claims wherein the at least one pouch comprises a contact wall, which in use, contacts a wearer or the wearer's apparel.

7. The hydration and thermo-regulation vest or backpack of Claim 6 wherein the contact wall contacts a wearer or the wearer' s apparel on one side and a hydration media on the other side.

8. The hydration and thermo-regulation vest or backpack of any one of the preceding Claims wherein the at least one pouch comprises one or more cell.

9. The hydration and thermo-regulation vest or backpack of Claim 8 wherein, the one or more cell, one or more of the cells, or each of the one or more cell may comprise a contact wall.

10. The hydration and thermo-regulation vest or backpack of any one of Claims 6 to 9 wherein each contact wall comprises a contact surface and non-contact surface.

11. The hydration and thermo-regulation vest or backpack of any one of the preceding Claims wherein the hydration reservoir, the pouch, each pouch and each cell also comprise a non-contact wall.

12. The hydration and thermo-regulation vest or backpack of any one of the preceding Claims wherein there is no other layer(s) between the contact wall and the wearer or their apparel.

13. The hydration and thermo-regulation vest or backpack of any one of the preceding Claims wherein the pouch retains hydration media for consumption to provide internal thermo-regulation.

14. The hydration and thermo-regulation vest or backpack of any one of Claims 8 to 14 wherein one or more of the cells comprises a neck cell.

15. The hydration and thermo-regulation vest or backpack of any one of Claims 8 to 14 wherein the one or more cells comprise a network of cells.

16. The hydration and thermo-regulation vest or backpack of any one of the preceding Claims wherein the plurality of pouches and/or cells may be separated by one or more flex zones which allows conformation to the shape of a wearer to maximise surface area contact.

17. The hydration and thermo-regulation vest or backpack of any one of the preceding Claims wherein the hydration reservoir is integral with the vest or backpack to eliminate the need for an additional carrier.

18. The hydration and thermo-regulation vest or backpack of any one of the preceding Claims wherein the one or more pouch comprises insulation on the non-contact walls to assist in maintaining the stored hydration media at a thermo-regulation temperature.

19. The hydration and thermo-regulation vest or backpack of any one of the preceding Claims wherein the reservoir further comprises a line for hydration media flow.

20. A method for thermo-regulation of a subject comprising:

applying to the subject a vest or backpack comprising a hydration reservoir, the hydration reservoir comprising at least one pouch, the at least one pouch comprising a contact wall, that contacts a wearer or the wearer' s apparel to thereby thermo-regulate the subject.

21. A method of manufacturing a hydration and thermo-regulation vest or backpack comprising:

providing a hydration reservoir comprising at least one pouch comprising a contact wall that in use contacts a wearer or the wearer' s apparel.