Investigation on the Design and Implementation of Thermal Therapy Mat
摘要
After a stroke, patients who use thermal mats as thermal therapy receive excellent care and support for their damaged skin. This study aimed to create a hot-cold mat device for thermal treatment that would be economically viable. Due to its exceptional qualities, a thermal electric chip (TEC) was deployed in this study to regulate the hot and cold temperatures of the fluid flowing through the mat. These qualities include (1) solid-state and no moving parts; (2) DC power source; (3) compact size; and (4) fast temperature speed control. Additionally, the mat's channel structure and material are crucial in ensuring fluid circulation and the capacity to transfer heat. Last but not least, the hardware and software must guarantee controllability via an app on a smartphone connected via Bluetooth low energy (BLE). A complete prototype has been designed and manufactured, ensuring mat temperature control between 20 and 40 degrees Celsius. The product has a compact, aesthetic design. The outcomes show that commercialising is possible, and all early expectations were met. In particular, the average heat rate is 2.25 ℃/s, and the production cost is roughly 45 USD as opposed to the target of 50 USD. Additionally, all necessary testing was successfully completed. Overall, the study findings have produced a product that performs as expected and ensures mass production and commercialization viability.