Cooling & Heating Vest

Product Report:

Overview:

This innovative vest project aims to provide personal climate control using Peltier modules. Though promising, challenges in power, efficiency, and comfort led to multiple design iterations and eventual exploration of alternative solutions.

Design Versions:

V1.0: Basic prototype; overheated and underpowered.

V1.2: Used 3x9V batteries; better cooling but still weak.

Planned V1.3: Exploring fans or air channels to boost efficiency.

How It Works:

Peltier Modules use electricity to heat or cool based on current direction.

Ideal for wearables due to their small size, but low efficiency limits practicality.

Future Goals:

Use better thermal materials.

Replace Peltier modules with airflow or water-based cooling.

Make the vest lighter and more comfortable.

Key Development Challenges:

  1. Power Supply:

  • Weak circuits and low battery output.

  • Solution: Stronger power controllers and redesigns.

    2. Heat Loss:

  • Energy wasted heating fabric and air.

  • Solution: Better materials with high thermal conductivity.

    3. Too Much Power Draw:

  • Multiple modules overloaded the system.

  • Solution: Switch to water sprayers or airflow systems.