1. Patent Search
  2. Details

PORTABLE BODY COOLING APPARATUS, AND APPLICATIONS THEREOF

20250228309 ยท 2025-07-17

    Inventors

    Cpc classification

    International classification

    Abstract

    Portable body cooling apparatus, particularly wearable on subjects, the apparatus comprises a channeled assembly including a coupled pair of channels longitudinally extending adjacent to each other, and wearable along outer contour of a subject's body part. The apparatus also comprises a forced air flow assembly connected to channeled assembly, for generating and driving forced flow of air into and through channeled assembly and facilitate indirect evaporation of liquid inside the channeled assembly, so as to produce forced flow of cool air exiting from channeled assembly and directed onto the subject, thereby cooling the subject. Also disclosed is a corresponding method of cooling a subject.

    Claims

    1-39. (canceled)

    40. A portable body cooling apparatus, particularly wearable on a subject, the apparatus comprising: a channeled assembly, including a coupled pair of channels longitudinally extending adjacent to each other, and configured for receiving a liquid feed and a forced flow of air, said channeled assembly is wearable along an outer contour of a body part of the subject; a liquid feed input assembly, operatively connected to, and in fluid communication with, said channeled assembly, and configured for facilitating input of said liquid feed into said channeled assembly; and a forced air flow assembly, operatively connected to, and in fluid communication with, said channeled assembly, and configured for generating and driving said forced flow of air into and through said channeled assembly; wherein said forced flow of air facilitates indirect evaporation of said liquid feed inside said channeled assembly, and produces a forced flow of cool air exiting from said channeled assembly and directed onto the subject, thereby cooling the subject.

    41. The apparatus of claim 40, wherein said coupled pair of channels includes a wettable channel and a dry channel, said wettable channel is configured so as to be wetted via said input flow of said liquid feed, and said dry channel is configured so as to be substantially dry.

    42. The apparatus of claim 41, wherein said wettable channel is configured as an outer channel and said dry channel is configured as an inner channel, with said dry inner channel being positioned inside of, and surrounded by, said wettable outer channel.

    43. The apparatus of claim 41, wherein said wettable channel includes at least one wettable channel forced air flow inlet port and at least one wettable channel forced air flow outlet port, and wherein said dry channel includes at least one dry channel forced air flow inlet port and at least one dry channel forced air flow outlet port.

    44. The apparatus of claim 41, wherein each said wettable channel forced air flow outlet port protrudes from a wall of said wettable channel, and each said dry channel forced air flow outlet port protrudes from a wall of said dry channel.

    45. The apparatus of claim 41, wherein said dry channel includes a plurality of said dry channel forced air flow outlet ports that protrude from a wall of said dry channel, and are positionally aligned relative to each other.

    46. The apparatus of claim 41, wherein said wettable channel is configured as a tube.

    47. The apparatus of claim 41, wherein said wettable channel includes therein a liquid absorbent material that extends along, and physically contacts, at least a majority of entire length of said dry channel, wherein said liquid absorbent material is suitable for absorbing said liquid feed input into said channeled assembly.

    48. The apparatus of claim 47, wherein said liquid absorbent material is a type of material selected from the group consisting of cloth materials and coating materials.

    49. The apparatus of claim 47, wherein said wettable channel further includes therein a spacer member that extends along at least a majority of entire length of said dry channel, and is configured to provide spacing between said liquid absorbent material and inner walls of said wettable channel, so as to facilitate unobstructed passage of said forced flow of air inside and through said wettable channel.

    50. The apparatus of claim 41, wherein said dry channel is configured as a tube longitudinally extending along at least a majority of entire length of said wettable channel.

    51. The apparatus of claim 40, wherein said channeled assembly is reversibly bendable, and reversibly fixable in a bended form, so as to facilitate fitting thereof along said outer contour of the subject's body part.

    52. The apparatus of claim 40, wherein said liquid feed input assembly is directly connected to said channeled assembly via a liquid feed input line extending between said liquid feed input assembly and said channeled assembly.

    53. The apparatus of claim 40, wherein the body cooling apparatus is a self-contained apparatus including a liquid feed reservoir, operatively connected to, and in fluid communication with, said channeled assembly, and configured for storing a reserve supply of said liquid feed.

    54. The apparatus of claim 52, wherein said liquid feed reservoir is operatively connected to, and in fluid communication with, said channeled assembly via a liquid feed connector that is configured for facilitating input of said reserve supply of said liquid feed from said liquid feed reservoir into said channeled assembly, via said forced flow of air, according to Bernoulli's principle for liquid flow.

    55. The apparatus of claim 41, wherein said forced air flow assembly is operatively connected to, and in fluid communication with, said channeled assembly, via a wettable channel forced air flow inlet line operatively connected to, and in fluid communication with, a wettable channel forced air flow inlet port, and via a dry channel forced air flow inlet line operatively connected to, and in fluid communication with, a dry channel forced air flow inlet port.

    56. The apparatus of claim 55, wherein the wettable channel forced air flow inlet line is positioned at least partially within a volume defined by the wettable channel.

    57. The apparatus of claim 56, wherein at least a majority of a length of the wettable channel forced air flow inlet line is positioned within the volume defined by the wettable channel.

    58. A method of cooling a subject, the method comprising: acquiring a portable body cooling apparatus, said apparatus is wearable on the subject, and comprises: a channeled assembly, including a coupled pair of channels longitudinally extending adjacent to each other, and configured for receiving a liquid feed and a forced flow of air; a liquid feed input assembly, operatively connected to, and in fluid communication with, said channeled assembly, and configured for facilitating input of said liquid feed into said channeled assembly; and a forced air flow assembly, operatively connected to, and in fluid communication with, said channeled assembly, and configured for generating and driving said forced flow of air into and through said channeled assembly; placing and wearing said apparatus along an outer contour of a body part of the subject; providing liquid feed to said liquid feed input assembly, so as to facilitate input of said liquid feed into said channeled assembly; and activating said forced air flow assembly, wherein said forced flow of air into said channeled assembly facilitates indirect evaporation of said liquid feed inside said channeled assembly, and produces a forced flow of cool air exiting from said channeled assembly and directed onto the subject, thereby cooling the subject.

    59. The method of claim 58, wherein said placing and wearing said apparatus includes positioning said coupled pair of channels along said outer contour of said body part of the subject, such that said coupled pair of channels is longitudinally aligned with said body part of the subject.

    Description

    BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

    [0141] Some embodiments of the present invention are herein described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings and photographs. With specific reference now to the drawings and photographs in detail, it is stressed that the particulars shown are by way of example and for purposes of illustrative description of some embodiments of the present invention. In this regard, the description taken together with the accompanying drawings and photographs make apparent to those skilled in the art how some embodiments of the present invention may be practiced.

    [0142] In the drawings and photographs:

    [0143] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of the front side of an exemplary embodiment of the body cooling apparatus, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention;

    [0144] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of the cut away front side of an exemplary embodiment of the channeled assembly (part of the body cooling apparatus), in accordance with some embodiments of the invention;

    [0145] FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of the front side of another exemplary embodiment of the body cooling apparatus, highlighting inclusion of a liquid feed reservoir as part of facilitating input of a reserve supply of the liquid feed into the channeled assembly, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention;

    [0146] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram of the front side of another exemplary embodiment of the body cooling apparatus, including a separate individual forced air flow assembly for each of the wettable (e.g., outer) channel and the dry (e.g., inner) channel of the channeled assembly, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention;

    [0147] FIGS. 5A-5D are schematic diagrams of different exemplary embodiments of the forced air flow assembly (and components thereof), in accordance with some embodiments of the invention;

    [0148] FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram of the cut away front side of another exemplary embodiment of the channeled assembly (part of the body cooling apparatus), highlighting tubular configurations of the wettable (e.g., outer) and dry (e.g., inner) channels thereof, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention;

    [0149] FIGS. 7A and 7B are photographs of the front side and the back side, respectively, of an exemplary prototype body cooling apparatus, highlighting a straight configuration thereof, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention;

    [0150] FIGS. 7C and 7D are photographs of the top side and the bottom side, respectively, of an exemplary prototype body cooling apparatus, highlighting a bent (actual applicable) configuration thereof, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention;

    [0151] FIGS. 8A and 8B are photographs of close-up views of an exemplary prototype body cooling apparatus, highlighting connections of forced air flow assembly to wettable (e.g., outer) and dry (e.g., inner) channels forced air flow inlet ports [FIG. 8A], and connections to liquid reservoir liquid input port, and wettable (e.g., outer) channel air input port [FIG. 8B], in accordance with some embodiments of the invention;

    [0152] FIG. 9 is a photograph of the partly cut away front side of an exemplary prototype body cooling apparatus, highlighting an exemplary tubular configuration of the channeled assembly, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention;

    [0153] FIGS. 10A-10C are schematic diagrams of exemplary embodiments of placement and wearing of the body cooling apparatus on different specific body parts of a subject: waist area [FIG. 10A], chest area [FIG. 10B], and head area [FIG. 10C], in accordance with some embodiments of the invention;

    [0154] FIG. 11 is a photograph of an exemplary (actual) application of the exemplary prototype body cooling apparatus, highlighting placement and wearing thereof on the waist area part of a subject's body, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention;

    [0155] FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram of the front side of an exemplary embodiment of the body cooling apparatus, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention; and

    [0156] FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram of the front side of an exemplary embodiment of the body cooling apparatus, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention.

    DESCRIPTION OF SPECIFIC EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

    [0157] The present invention relates to an apparatus for cooling a subject (herein, also referred to as the body cooling apparatus), and a corresponding method for cooling a subject (herein, also referred to as the body cooling method), wherein the body cooling apparatus is portable and particularly wearable on the subject. In exemplary embodiments, the body cooling apparatus is compact, made of environmentally friendly lightweight durable materials, and simple to manufacture at low cost. The body cooling apparatus is also simple to wear (e.g., as a length adjustable flexible belt or band) and safe to operate, without use or generation of hazardous materials, and without limiting or interfering with a subject's mobility of arms or hands needed for performing rigorous activities. The present invention is user-friendly and ergonomic, accounting for a subject's physical and mental human factors in relation to design, construction, and operation of the body cooling apparatus.

    [0158] Implementation of the body cooling apparatus, and corresponding method of cooling a subject, are based on the process of indirect evaporation. In exemplary embodiments, the body cooling apparatus features a channeled assembly that includes a coupled pair of a wettable (for example, outer) channel and a dry (for example, inner) channel longitudinally extending adjacent to each other. The wettable (e.g., outer) channel is connected to a liquid feed input assembly, and both the wettable (e.g., outer) and dry (e.g., inner) channels are connected to a forced air flow assembly.

    [0159] In such exemplary embodiments, the liquid feed input assembly feeds a liquid (e.g., water) into the wettable (e.g., outer) channel, thereby wetting surfaces of both the inner wall of the wettable (e.g., outer) channel and the outer wall of the dry (e.g., inner) channel. At the same time, the forced air flow assembly generates a forced flow of air inside and through the wettable (e.g., outer) channel, causing the liquid to evaporate from the surfaces of both the wettable (e.g., outer) channel inner wall and the dry (e.g., inner) channel outer wall, thereby cooling (lowering the temperatures of) those surfaces.

    [0160] Cooling of the dry (e.g., inner) channel outer wall surface leads to cooling (lowering the temperature of) the forced flow of air flowing inside and through the dry (e.g., inner) channel. Additionally, cooling of the wettable (e.g., outer) channel inner wall surface(s) leads to cooling (lowering the temperature of) the forced flow of air flowing inside and through the wettable (e.g., outer) channel, which, in turn, cools (lowers the temperature of) the dry (e.g., inner) channel outer wall surface, which, in turn, also cools (lowers the temperature of) the forced flow of air flowing inside and through the dry (e.g., inner) channel.

    [0161] The resulting cool air flowing inside and through the dry (e.g., inner) channel exits the dry (e.g., inner) channel and is directed onto a subject wearing the body cooling apparatus, thereby cooling the subject. According to such indirect evaporation process, air flowing through the wettable (e.g., outer) channel is separated from, and does not mix with, air flowing through the dry (e.g., inner) channel, such that air flowing through the dry (e.g., inner) channel is cooled without undesirably increasing its moisture content.

    [0162] Embodiments of the invention are applicable for cooling subjects performing, or involved with, those kinds of rigorous activities (e.g., construction work, factory work, vehicle repair work, agricultural work, military work, summertime outdoor house work, sports, camping, trekking) that generate, or/and are associated with, excessive body temperatures and perspiration (sweating) of the subjects. Implementation of the invention enables subjects to safely and efficiently regulate their body temperatures while performing numerous rigorous activities. The invention is applicable for preventing, or at least for aiding in preventing, onset of heat illness (hyperthermia) in subjects performing, or involved with, rigorous activities that generate, or/and are associated with, excessive body temperatures and perspiration (sweating) of the subjects.

    [0163] Implementation of the present invention attempts to address, and overcome, at least some of the on-going limitations and problems associated with techniques (apparatuses, methods) for cooling a subject.

    [0164] The herein disclosed invention, and aspects thereof (i.e., body cooling apparatus, and body cooling method), include, or, alternatively, consist essentially of, or, alternatively, consist of, the following illustratively described structural and functional (operational) features thereof.

    [0165] The portable body cooling apparatus, particularly wearable on a subject, in a non-limiting manner, and in some embodiments, includes: a channeled assembly, a liquid feed input assembly, and a forced air flow assembly. In such exemplary embodiments, the channeled assembly includes a coupled pair of channels longitudinally extending adjacent to each other, and is configured for receiving a liquid feed and a forced flow of ambient air. The channeled assembly is wearable (for example, firmly) along an outer contour of a body part of the subject. The liquid feed input assembly is operatively connected to, and in fluid communication with, the channeled assembly, and is configured for facilitating input of the liquid feed into the channeled assembly. The forced air flow assembly is also operatively connected to, and in fluid communication with, the channeled assembly, and is configured for generating and driving the forced flow of ambient air into and through the channeled assembly. The forced flow of ambient air facilitates indirect evaporation of the liquid inside the channeled assembly, and produces a forced flow of cool air exiting from the channeled assembly and directed onto the subject, thereby cooling the subject.

    [0166] The method of cooling a subject, in a non-limiting manner, and in some embodiments, includes: (i) acquiring a portable body cooling apparatus, wherein the body cooling apparatus is particularly wearable on the subject; (ii) placing (for example, firmly) and wearing the apparatus along an outer contour of a body part of the subject; (iii) providing liquid feed to the liquid feed input assembly, so as to facilitate input of the liquid feed into the channeled assembly; and (iv) activating the forced air flow assembly, wherein the forced flow of ambient air into the channeled assembly facilitates indirect evaporation of the liquid feed inside the channeled assembly, and produces a forced flow of cool air exiting from the channeled assembly and directed onto the subject, thereby cooling the subject.

    [0167] In such exemplary embodiments, the body cooling apparatus includes: a channeled assembly, including a coupled pair of channels longitudinally extending adjacent to each other, and configured for receiving a liquid feed and a forced flow of ambient air; a liquid feed input assembly, operatively connected to, and in fluid communication with, the channeled assembly, and configured for facilitating input of the liquid feed into the channeled assembly; and a forced air flow assembly, operatively connected to, and in fluid communication with, the channeled assembly, and configured for generating and driving the forced flow of ambient air into and through the channeled assembly.

    [0168] For purposes of further understanding exemplary embodiments of the present invention, in the following illustrative description thereof, reference is made to the drawings and photographs. Throughout the following description and accompanying drawings and photographs, same reference numbers refer to same components, elements, or features. It is to be understood that the invention is not necessarily limited in its application to particular details of construction or/and arrangement of exemplary apparatus components, or to any particular sequential ordering of exemplary method steps or procedures, set forth in the following illustrative description. The invention is capable of having other exemplary embodiments, or/and of being practiced or carried out in various alternative ways.

    [0169] In the following description and accompanying drawings, physical orientational (location, position) and directional type terms back side, front side, top side, and bottom side, are used for indicating relative orientation (location, position) and direction of the herein disclosed body cooling apparatus (and components thereof), with respect to a subject upon which the body cooling apparatus is worn, and with respect to an observer (or viewer) thereof.

    [0170] The phrase front side of the body cooling apparatus, and the (synonymous) phrase body cooling apparatus front side, as used herein, refer to that side, and surface thereof, of the body cooling apparatus which face, and are positioned, outward or away from a subject's body part. The front side of the body cooling apparatus is substantially viewable by an observer (other than the subject) directly facing, and looking at, that side of a subject upon which the apparatus is worn. The front side of the body cooling apparatus is that side which is diametrically opposite to the back side of the body cooling apparatus, as defined hereinbelow. Examples of schematically and photographically showing the front side of the body cooling apparatus are set forth in FIGS. 1-4, 6, 7A, 9, and 11.

    [0171] The phrase back side of the body cooling apparatus, and the (synonymous) phrase body cooling apparatus back side, as used herein, refer to that side, and surface thereof, of the body cooling apparatus which face, and are positioned, inward or towards a subject's body part. The back side of the body cooling apparatus is non-viewable by an observer (other than the subject) directly facing, and looking at, that side of a subject upon which the apparatus is worn. The back side of the body cooling apparatus is that side which is diametrically opposite to the front side of the body cooling apparatus, as defined hereinabove. An example of photographically showing the back side of the body cooling apparatus is set forth in FIG. 7B.

    [0172] The phrase top side of the body cooling apparatus, and the (synonymous) phrase body cooling apparatus top side, as used herein, refer to that (narrower) side, and surface thereof, of the body cooling apparatus which is 90 relative to either the (wider) back side or front side of the body cooling apparatus, as viewed by an observer looking downward upon the (top part of the) body cooling apparatus, when the body cooling apparatus is in its right-side-up position (i.e., correct orientation or configuration) as normally intended to be worn by a subject. An example of photographically showing the top side of the body cooling apparatus is set forth in FIG. 7C.

    [0173] The phrase bottom side of the body cooling apparatus, and the (synonymous) phrase body cooling apparatus bottom side, as used herein, refer to that (narrower) side, and surface thereof, of the body cooling apparatus which is 90 relative to either the (wider) back side or front side of the body cooling apparatus, as viewed by an observer looking upward upon the (bottom part of the) body cooling apparatus, when the body cooling apparatus is in its right-side-up position (i.e., correct orientation or configuration) as normally intended to be worn by a subject, or as viewed by an observer looking downward upon the (bottom part of the) body cooling apparatus in its upside-down position. An example of photographically showing the bottom side of the body cooling apparatus is set forth in FIG. 7D.

    [0174] Additionally, for the objective of showing a normal or intended physical orientation and direction of the body cooling apparatus, when worn by a subject, in the description the term L, and in the drawings the term L immediately above which is a double-headed arrow, refer to a reference longitudinal axis that is parallel to the (right-to-left, or left-to-right) longitudinally extending direction of the body cooling apparatus.

    [0175] The phrase self-contained is used herein in the context of exemplary embodiments of the body cooling apparatus constituting a complete and independent unit or apparatus in and of itself. Namely, that any particular exemplary embodiment of the body cooling apparatus that includes a channeled assembly (and components thereof), a liquid feed input assembly (and components thereof), a forced air flow assembly (and components thereof), and a liquid feed reservoir (and components thereof) constitutes a complete and independent unit or apparatus in and of itself. For example, in some implementations, the body cooling apparatus can also include internal power source(s) to operate the liquid feed input assembly and the forced air flow assembly for the body cooling apparatus to be so self-contained and independent that it would not even require any type connection to any external unit.

    [0176] The phrase portable is used herein in the context of an apparatus that can be carried easily, either by way of wearing on the body or by the way of carrying in a suitcase or a bag or being held in the hands of a user, by virtue of its size, shape, dimensions, and weight.

    Body Cooling Apparatus, and Components Thereof

    [0177] Referring now to the drawings, FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of the front side of an exemplary embodiment of the body cooling apparatus [indicated as, and referred to by, reference number 100]. FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of the cut away front side of an exemplary embodiment of the channeled assembly 102 (of the body cooling apparatus 100). The body cooling apparatus 100 is portable and particularly wearable on a subject. In exemplary embodiments, the body cooling apparatus 100 includes: a channeled assembly 102, a liquid feed input assembly 104, and a forced air flow assembly 106.

    [0178] The channeled assembly 102 includes a coupled pair of channels, for example, a wettable channel 110 and a dry channel 112, longitudinally extending adjacent to each other, and is configured for receiving a liquid feed 114 (via liquid feed input assembly 104) and a forced flow of ambient air (via forced air flow assembly 106). The wettable channel 110 is configured so as to be wetted via input of the liquid feed 114, which is fed into the wettable channel 110 via the liquid feed input assembly 104. The dry channel 112 is configured so as to be substantially dry during operation of the body cooling apparatus 100.

    [0179] In exemplary embodiments, the wettable channel 110 is configured as an outer channel, and the dry channel 112 is configured as an inner channel, with the dry inner channel 112 being positioned inside of, and surrounded by, the wettable outer channel 110.

    [0180] The channeled assembly 102 is configured so as to be wearable (for example, firmly) along an outer contour of a body part (e.g., waist area, chest area, head area) of a subject, for example, as shown in FIGS. 10A-10C, and 11. In exemplary embodiments, the channeled assembly 102 is reversibly bendable, and reversibly fixable in a bended form, so as to facilitate firm fitting thereof along the outer contour of the subject's body part. In exemplary embodiments, the wettable (e.g., outer) channel 110 is made of a sheet or sheet-like material, and has a sheet or sheet-like form. In exemplary embodiments, the dry (e.g., inner) channel 112 is made of a firm, reversibly bendable and foldable material. In exemplary embodiments, the dry (e.g., inner) channel 112 has a bended or/and folded form. In exemplary embodiments, the wettable (e.g., outer) channel 110 has a sheet or sheet-like form that is wrapped around, and surrounds, at least most, or the entirety of, the dry (e.g., inner) channel 112 having a bended or/and folded form.

    [0181] In exemplary embodiments, the wettable (e.g., outer) channel 110 includes at least one wettable (e.g., outer) channel forced air flow inlet port, for example, a single wettable (e.g., outer) channel forced air flow inlet port 116, and at least one wettable (e.g., outer) channel forced air flow outlet port, for example, a single wettable (e.g., outer) channel forced air flow outlet port 118. In exemplary embodiments, the dry (e.g., inner) channel 112 includes at least one dry (e.g., inner) channel forced air flow inlet port, for example, a single dry (e.g., inner) channel forced air flow inlet port 120, and at least one dry (e.g., inner) channel forced air flow outlet port, for example, a plurality of five dry (e.g., inner) channel forced air flow outlet ports 122 (122a, 122b, 122c, 122d, 122e). In exemplary embodiments, for example as shown in FIG. 13, the dry (e.g., inner) channel 112 can include a single dry (e.g., inner) channel forced air flow outlet port 122 and the body cooling apparatus 100 can further include a distribution line 136 configured to be operatively and fluidly connectable (removably) to the dry (e.g., inner) channel forced air flow outlet port 122 (whether single or multiple) and distribute the forced flow of cool air exiting from the dry (e.g., inner) channel forced air flow outlet port 122 to at least one location (for example, a body part) remote from the channeled assembly (for example, to a body part distant from the body part where the colling apparatus is worn).

    [0182] In exemplary embodiments, each wettable (e.g., outer) channel forced air flow outlet port protrudes from a wall of the wettable (e.g., outer) channel 110. For example, as particularly shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the wettable (e.g., outer) channel forced air flow outlet port 118 protrudes from the wall 124 of the wettable (e.g., outer) channel 110. In exemplary embodiments, each dry (e.g., inner) channel forced air flow outlet port protrudes from a wall of the dry (e.g., inner) channel 112. For example, as particularly shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, all of the plurality of five dry (e.g., inner) channel forced air flow outlet ports 122 (122a, 122b, 122c, 122d, 122e) protrude from a same wall, for example, wall 126, of the dry (e.g., inner) channel 112.

    [0183] In exemplary embodiments, all of the plurality of dry (e.g., inner) channel forced air flow outlet ports are positionally aligned relative to each other along the same wall of the dry (e.g., inner) channel 112. For example, as particularly shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, all of the plurality of five dry (e.g., inner) channel forced air flow outlet ports 122 (122a, 122b, 122c, 122d, 122e) are positionally aligned relative to each other along the same wall, for example, wall 126, of the dry (e.g., inner) channel 112.

    [0184] In exemplary embodiments, each one of the at least one wettable (e.g., outer) channel forced air flow outlet port is located at a position away from each one of the at least one dry (e.g., inner) channel forced air flow outlet port, such that forced flow of cool air exiting each dry (e.g., inner) channel forced air flow outlet port is unaffected by forced flow of air exiting each wettable (e.g., outer) channel forced air flow outlet port. For example, as particularly shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the wettable (e.g., outer) channel forced air flow outlet port 118 is located at a position away from all of the plurality of five dry (e.g., inner) channel forced air flow outlet ports 122 (122a, 122b, 122c, 122d, 122e), such that forced flow of cool air exiting each dry (e.g., inner) channel forced air flow outlet port 122 is unaffected by forced flow of air exiting the wettable (e.g., outer) channel forced air flow outlet port 118.

    [0185] In exemplary embodiments, the preceding described position of each wettable (e.g., outer) channel forced air flow outlet port is partly defined whereby each wettable (e.g., outer) channel forced air flow outlet port faces away from each dry (e.g., inner) channel forced air flow outlet port by an angle of at least 45 degrees, and particularly, by an angle equal to or greater than 90 degrees, relative to the longitudinal direction of the channeled assembly. For example, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the position of the wettable (e.g., outer) channel forced air flow outlet port 118 is partly defined whereby the wettable (e.g., outer) channel forced air flow outlet port 118 faces away from each one of the plurality of five dry (e.g., inner) channel forced air flow outlet ports 122 (122a, 122b, 122c, 122d, 122e) by an angle of 90 degrees relative to the longitudinal direction (L) of the channeled assembly 102.

    [0186] The liquid feed input assembly 104 is operatively connected to, and in fluid communication with, the channeled assembly 102, and is configured for facilitating input of the liquid feed 114 into the channeled assembly 102. In exemplary embodiments, the liquid feed input assembly 104 is directly connected to the channeled assembly 102 (as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2). In exemplary embodiments, the liquid feed input assembly 104 is operatively connected to, and in fluid communication with, the wettable (e.g., outer) channel 110 of the channeled assembly 102, via a liquid feed input line 128, and a liquid feed input port 130 (for example, as shown in FIG. 2). It is to be understood herein that the liquid feed input line 128 and the liquid feed input port 130 co-operate with the liquid feed input assembly 104 for facilitating input of the liquid feed 114 into the channeled assembly 102, and therefore constitute a part of the liquid feed input assembly 104. In exemplary embodiments, the liquid feed input assembly 104 can be fluidly connected to a source (not shown) of the liquid feed 114, which can be a fixed or portable liquid feed reservoir and can facilitate input of the liquid feed 114 into the channeled assembly 102 from the source. In exemplary embodiments, the liquid feed input assembly 104 is indirectly connected to the channeled assembly 102 (for example, via a liquid feed reservoir 204 and a liquid feed connector 206, as shown in FIG. 3 and described below).

    [0187] The liquid feed 114 is a liquid that readily evaporates when subjected to a forced flow of air (e.g., ambient air) generated by the forced air flow assembly 106. In exemplary embodiments, the liquid feed 114 is user friendly (i.e., environmentally friendly, non-hazardous, non-combustible, non-toxic) and safe to use with the body cooling apparatus 100. In exemplary embodiments, the liquid feed 114 is water, or another type of user friendly liquid, which readily evaporates when subjected to a forced flow of air generated by the forced air flow assembly 106.

    [0188] The (wettable [e.g., outer] and dry [e.g., inner] channels) forced air flow assembly 106 is operatively connected to, and in fluid communication with, the channeled assembly 102, and is configured for generating and driving the forced flow of (e.g., ambient) air into and through the channeled assembly 102. In exemplary embodiments, the (wettable [e.g., outer] and dry [e.g., inner] channels) forced air flow assembly 106 is operatively connected to, and in fluid communication with, the wettable (e.g., outer) channel forced air flow inlet port 116 of the wettable (e.g., outer) channel 110, via a wettable (e.g., outer) channel forced air flow inlet line 132. In exemplary embodiments, the (wettable [e.g., outer] and dry [e.g., inner] channels) forced air flow assembly 106 is also operatively connected to, and in fluid communication with, the dry (e.g., inner) channel forced air flow inlet port 120 of the dry (e.g., inner) channel 112, via a dry (e.g., inner) channel forced air flow inlet line 134.

    [0189] In exemplary embodiments, the forced air flow assembly 106 includes a forced air blower (for example, forced air blower 150, shown in FIGS. 5A-5D), such as a fan or fan-like device, which produces (generates) a forced flow or forced current of air (for example, ambient air) surrounding (encompassed within) the immediate vicinity of the body cooling apparatus 100 and of a subject's body part upon which the body cooling apparatus 100 is positioned and worn. In exemplary embodiments, the forced air blower (e.g., fan) 150 includes, or is operatively connected to, at least one air filter, or an air filtering device (for example, air filter or air filtering device 151, shown in FIGS. 5A-5D) that is configured for filtering air which enters the forced air blower 150, or/and for filtering air which exits the forced air blower 150.

    [0190] The forced flow of (e.g., ambient) air facilitates indirect evaporation of the liquid feed 114 inside the channeled assembly 102, and produces a forced flow of cool air 140 that exits (via the dry [e.g., inner] channel forced air flow outlet ports 122) the channeled assembly 102, and is directed onto a subject wearing the body cooling apparatus, thereby cooling the subject.

    Body Cooling Apparatus Including a Liquid Feed Reservoir

    [0191] In exemplary embodiments, the body cooling apparatus further includes a liquid feed reservoir, operatively connected to, and in fluid communication with, the channeled assembly. The liquid feed reservoir is configured for storing a reserve supply of the liquid feed, which is to be used after the initial supply of the liquid feed is used up. FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of the front side of another exemplary embodiment of the body cooling apparatus [indicated as, and referred to by, reference number 200], highlighting inclusion of a liquid feed reservoir 204, which facilitates input of a reserve supply of the liquid feed 114r into the channeled assembly 102.

    [0192] The body cooling apparatus 200 is configured with all the same components (and functions thereof) as the body cooling apparatus 100 (of FIGS. 1 and 2), with the main difference being additional inclusion, and operative connections, of a liquid feed reservoir, for example, liquid feed reservoir 204, and a liquid feed connector, for example, liquid feed connector 206. In exemplary embodiments, in the body cooling apparatus 200, the liquid feed reservoir 204 is operatively connected in between, and in fluid communication with, the liquid feed input assembly 104 and the channeled assembly 102. The liquid feed reservoir 204 is configured for storing a reserve supply of liquid feed 114r, which is to be used (i.e., fed to the channeled assembly 102) either after the initial supply of the liquid feed 114 is consumed or in case no external source of the liquid feed is available.

    [0193] In contrast to the body cooling apparatus 100, wherein the liquid feed input assembly 104 is directly connected, via the liquid feed input line 128, to the channeled assembly 102 (as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2), here, in the body cooling apparatus 200, the liquid feed input assembly 104 is indirectly connected to the channeled assembly 102. Namely, via the liquid feed input line 128 being connected to, and in fluid communication with, the liquid feed reservoir 204, which, in turn, is connected to, and in fluid communication with, the channeled assembly 102, via a liquid feed connector 206. In exemplary embodiments, the liquid feed connector 206 is operatively connected to, and in fluid communication with, the liquid feed input port 130 (FIG. 2) configured in the wettable (e.g., outer) channel 110 of the channeled assembly 102.

    [0194] The liquid feed connector 206 is configured for facilitating input of the liquid feed 114 from the liquid feed reservoir 206 into the channeled assembly 102. In exemplary embodiments, such facilitation of inputting the liquid feed 114, via the liquid feed connector 206, is effected via the forced flow of (e.g., ambient) air into and through the channeled assembly 102, according to Bernoulli's principle for liquid flow. According to such embodiments, the liquid feed connector 206 operates as a venturi tube through which passes the liquid feed 114 from the liquid feed reservoir 204 into the channeled assembly 102. It is to be understood herein that although the liquid feed connector 206 has been shown as being separate from the liquid feed assembly 104, however since the liquid feed connector 206 co-operate with the liquid feed input assembly 104 for facilitating input of the liquid feed 114r into the channeled assembly 102, and therefore constitute a part of the liquid feed input assembly 104. The liquid feed assembly 104 is to be considered as being constituted by the components that, directly or indirectly, facilitate input of the liquid feed into the channeled assembly, irrespective of the configuration of the components shown and/or described herein. For instance, according to the embodiment shown in FIG. 3, the liquid feed input assembly 104 has been described as being indirectly connected to the channeled assembly 102 via the liquid feed reservoir 204 only because the liquid feed reservoir 204 has been shown to be positioned in between the liquid feed assembly 104 and the channeled assembly 102, and not because the liquid feed connector 206 is not to be considered as a part of the liquid feed assembly 104. It is to be understood herein that there can be other arrangements whereas the liquid feed reservoir 204 can be operatively connected to, and in fluid communication with, the channeled assembly 102 via the liquid feed assembly 104. Accordingly, the liquid feed assembly 104 is to be understood herein as a component, or a set of components, configured for facilitating input of liquid feed 114/114r to the channeled assembly. In exemplary embodiments, the liquid feed reservoir 204 is a pre-filled disposable container operatively connected, or removably connectable, to the channeled assembly 102 via the liquid feed connector 206. In such implementations, although there may be no liquid feed assembly 104 as such, however, the liquid feed connector 206 facilitating the input of the liquid feed into the channeled assembly 102 would constitute the liquid feed assembly.

    [0195] In exemplary embodiments, the liquid feed reservoir 204 is positioned, and longitudinally extends, adjacent to the channel assembly 102. In exemplary embodiments, the liquid feed reservoir 204 is positioned, and longitudinally extends, adjacent to the wettable (e.g., outer) channel 110 of the channeled assembly 102. In exemplary embodiments, the liquid feed reservoir 204 is physically (mechanically) connected to the channeled assembly 102, for example, via being physically (mechanically) connected to an outer wall of the wettable (e.g., outer) channel 110 of the channeled assembly 102. In exemplary embodiments, the liquid feed reservoir 204 is configured as a pouch, or pouch like, container or receptacle, that holds a specified reserve volume (for example, 5-100 milliliters) of the reserve supply of liquid feed 114r.

    Body Cooling Apparatus Including Two Separate Individual Forced Air Flow Assemblies

    [0196] In exemplary embodiments, for example, as shown in FIG. 1, the body cooling apparatus is configured with a single forced air flow assembly operatively connected to, and in fluid communication with, the channeled assembly, via the wettable (e.g., outer) channel forced air flow inlet line operatively connected to, and in fluid communication with, the wettable (e.g., outer) channel forced air flow inlet port, and via the dry (e.g., inner) channel forced air flow inlet line operatively connected to, and in fluid communication with, the dry (e.g., inner) channel forced air flow inlet port.

    [0197] In alternative exemplary embodiments, the body cooling apparatus includes two separate individual forced air flow assemblies, operatively connected to, and in fluid communication with, the channeled assembly, with a first forced air flow assembly operatively connected to, and in fluid communication with, the wettable (e.g., outer) channel, and a second forced air flow assembly operatively connected to, and in fluid communication with, the dry (e.g., inner) channel. FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram of the front side of another exemplary embodiment of the body cooling apparatus [indicated as, and referred to by, reference number 300], including a separate individual forced air flow assembly for each of the wettable (e.g., outer) channel 110 and the dry (e.g., inner) channel 112 of the channeled assembly 102. The body cooling apparatus 300 is configured with all the same components (and functions thereof) as the body cooling apparatus 100 (of FIGS. 1 and 2), with the only difference being inclusion, and operative connections, of two separate individual forced air flow assemblies 106-w and 106-d, configured for generating and driving the forced flow of (e.g., ambient) air into and through the channeled assembly 102.

    [0198] According to such exemplary embodiments, the body cooling apparatus 300 includes a wettable (e.g., outer) channel forced air flow assembly 106-w, and a dry (e.g., inner) channel forced air flow assembly 106-d. The wettable (e.g., outer) channel forced air flow assembly 106-w is operatively connected to, and in fluid communication with, the wettable (e.g., outer) channel forced air flow inlet port 116 of the wettable (e.g., outer) channel 110, via the wettable (e.g., outer) channel forced air flow inlet line 132. The dry (e.g., inner) channel forced air flow assembly 106-d is operatively connected to, and in fluid communication with, the dry (e.g., inner) channel forced air flow inlet port 120 of the dry (e.g., inner) channel 112, via the dry (e.g., inner) channel forced air flow inlet line 134.

    [0199] A possible advantage of the body cooling apparatus 300 including two separate individual forced air flow assemblies 106-w and 106-d, is to provide additional control capability regarding the flow of forced air into and through the channeled assembly 102. For example, according to such an embodiment, although both of the separate individual wettable (e.g., outer) channel forced air flow assembly 106-w and the dry (e.g., inner) channel forced air flow assembly 106-d are operative relative to each other, in a synchronizable manner, each of the individual forced air flow assemblies 106-w and 106-d is separately operable and controllable, according to the specific operating conditions and requirements of each of the wettable (e.g., outer) channel 110 and the dry (e.g., inner) channel 112, respectively, of the channeled assembly 102.

    Forced Air Flow Assembly Different Exemplary Embodiments

    [0200] The body cooling apparatus (100, 200, 300) is configurable with different exemplary embodiments of the forced air flow assembly (and components thereof). FIGS. 5A-5D are schematic diagrams of different exemplary embodiments of the forced air flow assembly 106 (and components thereof). Described herein are four different exemplary embodiments of the forced air flow assembly, namely, forced air flow assembly 106a, forced air flow assembly 106b, forced air flow assembly 106c, and forced air flow assembly 106d. Each exemplary embodiment of the forced air flow assembly 106 (a, b, c, d) includes: a forced air blower 150, a power interface and control device 152, and a power supply 154.

    [0201] The forced air blower 150 is a fan, or fan-like device, which produces (generates) the forced flow (current) of air that forcibly flows into, and through, the channeled assembly 102. In exemplary embodiments, the forced air blower (e.g., fan) 150 includes, or is operatively connected to, at least one air filter 151, or an air filtering device 151, that is/are configured for filtering air which enters the forced air blower 150, or/and for filtering air which exits the forced air blower 150. The forced air blower (e.g., fan) 150 is operatively connected to, and in fluid communication with, the wettable (e.g., outer) channel forced air flow inlet line 132 and the dry (e.g., inner) channel forced air flow inlet line 134, thereby supplying the wettable (e.g., outer) channel 110, and the dry (e.g., inner) channel 112, respectively, with forced air flow. The forced air blower 150 is also operatively connected to the power interface and control device 152.

    [0202] The power interface and control device 152 interfaces between the forced air blower 150 and the power supply 154, and controls operation (and operational parameters [e.g., on/off conditions, power level, rate of rotation of a motorized drive shaft]) of the forced air blower 150, which then translates to controlling operational parameters (e.g., linear velocity, volumetric flow rate) of the forced air flow, during operation of the body cooling apparatus 100. In exemplary embodiments, the power interface and control device 152 includes a variable frequency drive that facilitates such operational control of the forced air blower 150, by controlling power frequency of the forced air blower 150, and of its motorized drive shaft.

    [0203] The power supply 154, in exemplary embodiments, is a durable 12 V or 24 V DC battery, having a single life (i.e., being disposable), or having renewable lives (i.e., being rechargeable).

    [0204] In exemplary embodiments, the forced air blower 150, power interface and control device 152, and the power supply 154, are configured as small (miniaturized), lightweight, components. Such embodiments of the forced air flow assembly contribute to the body cooling apparatus being self-contained, portable, and wearable on the body of a subject.

    [0205] In the first exemplary embodiment of the forced air flow assembly, namely, forced air flow assembly 106a [FIG. 5A], the power supply 154 is operatively connected to the power interface and control device 152, which is operatively connected to the forced air blower (fan) 150, which, in turn, is operatively connected to the wettable (e.g., outer) and dry (e.g., inner) channels forced air flow inlet lines 132 and 134, respectively.

    [0206] In the second exemplary embodiment of the forced air flow assembly, namely, forced air flow assembly 106b [FIG. 5B], the power supply 154 is operatively connected to an integrated assembly 160 (configured with the power interface and control device 152 being operatively connected to the forced air blower (fan) 152), which, in turn, is operatively connected to the wettable (e.g., outer) and dry (e.g., inner) channels forced air flow inlet lines 132 and 134, respectively.

    [0207] In the third exemplary embodiment of the forced air flow assembly, namely, forced air flow assembly 106c [FIG. 5C], an integrated assembly 162 (configured with the power supply 154 operatively connected to the power interface and control device 152) is operatively connected to the forced air blower (fan) 152, which, in turn, is operatively connected to the wettable (e.g., outer) and dry (e.g., inner) channels forced air flow inlet lines 132 and 134, respectively.

    [0208] In the fourth exemplary embodiment of the forced air flow assembly, namely, forced air flow assembly 106d [FIG. 5D], an integrated assembly 164 (configured with the power supply 154 operatively connected to the power interface and control device 152, which, in turn, is operatively connected to the forced air blower (fan) 152), is operatively connected to the wettable (e.g., outer) and dry (e.g., inner) channels forced air flow inlet lines 132 and 134, respectively.

    Channeled Assembly Having a Tubular Configuration, With Additional Inclusion of a Wettable Channel Liquid Absorbent Material and a Wettable Channel Spacer Member

    [0209] In exemplary embodiments, the channeled assembly has a tubular configuration, wherein the wettable (e.g., outer) and dry (e.g., inner) channels are configured as tubes. FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram of the cut away front side of another exemplary embodiment of the channeled assembly (part of the body cooling apparatus) [indicated as, and referred to by, reference number 402], highlighting tubular configurations of the wettable (e.g., outer) channel 110 and the dry (e.g., inner) channel 112 thereof. The channeled assembly 402 is configured with all the same components (and functions thereof) as the channeled assembly 102 (of FIG. 2), with each of the wettable (e.g., outer) channel 110 and the dry (e.g., inner) channel 112 having a tubular configuration, along with additional inclusion, and operative positioning, of a wettable (e.g., outer) channel liquid absorbent material 410 and a wettable (e.g., outer) channel spacer member 420.

    [0210] In exemplary embodiments of the channeled assembly 402, the tubular dry (e.g., inner) channel 112 longitudinally extends along at least a majority of the entire length of the tubular wettable (e.g., outer) channel 110, and the length of the tubular dry (e.g., inner) channel 112 is more than the length of the tubular wettable (e.g., outer) channel 110. For instance, the dry (e.g., inner) channel 112 is longer than the wettable (e.g., outer) channel 110 and is positioned in loops within the wettable (e.g., outer) channel 110. The dry (e.g., inner) channel 112 is configured and positioned in the wettable (e.g., outer) channel 110 so as to have a maximum possible surface area of the outer walls thereof to be in contact with the liquid feed water. Such exemplary embodiments ensure that the entire length of the tubular dry (e.g., inner) channel 112 will be subjected to, and benefit from, the cooling of the forced air flowing inside and through the tubular wettable (e.g., outer) channel 110, as a result of the indirect evaporation process taking place, via evaporation of liquid from the wettable (e.g., outer) channel liquid absorbent material 410, inside the tubular wettable (e.g., outer) channel 110.

    [0211] In exemplary embodiments, the tubular wettable (e.g., outer) channel 110 includes therein a liquid absorbent material, for example, liquid absorbent material 410, that longitudinally extends along, and physically contacts, at least a majority of the entire length of the tubular dry (e.g., inner) channel 112. The liquid absorbent material 410 is suitable for being wetted and absorbing the liquid feed 114 input, via the liquid feed input port 130, into the tubular wettable (e.g., outer) channel 110 of the channeled assembly 402. In exemplary embodiments, the wettable (e.g., outer) channel liquid absorbent material 410 is a type of material selected from the group consisting of cloth materials and coating materials.

    [0212] In exemplary embodiments, the tubular wettable (e.g., outer) channel 110 includes therein a spacer member 420 that longitudinally extends along at least a majority of the entire length of the tubular dry (e.g., inner) channel 112 and/or the tubular wettable (e.g., outer) channel 110. Wettable (e.g., outer) channel spacer member 420 is configured to provide a passage (passageway) type of spacing (separation) between the liquid absorbent material 410 and inner walls of the wettable (e.g., outer) channel, so as to facilitate unobstructed passage of the forced flow of (e.g., ambient) air inside and through the wettable (e.g., outer) channel 110. In exemplary embodiments, the wettable (e.g., outer) channel spacer member 420 is made of a rigid (firm) material.

    Body Cooling Apparatus With Pre-Cooling of the Forced Flow of Air Prior to Entering Into the Wettable Channel

    [0213] In exemplary embodiments, the body cooling apparatus further includes arrangement for pre-cooling the forced flow of air prior to the forced flow of air entering into the wettable (e.g., outer) channel. The pre-cooled forced flow of air significantly improves the cooling efficiency of the body cooling apparatus and it is actually possible to lower the air temperature below the temperature of the bulb (wet) thermometer and there is the potential to reach approximately the dew point temperature (dew point). FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram of the front side of another exemplary embodiment of the body cooling apparatus [indicated as, and referred to by, reference number 100], highlighting positioning of the wettable (e.g., outer) channel forced air flow inlet line 132 within the channeled assembly 102.

    [0214] The body cooling apparatus 100 is configured with all the same components (and functions thereof) as the body cooling apparatus 100 (of FIGS. 1 and 2), with the main difference being positioning of the wettable (e.g., outer) channel forced air flow inlet line 132. It is to be understood herein that the positioning of the wettable (e.g., outer) channel forced air flow inlet line 132 described herein with respect to the body cooling apparatus 100 can be implemented with all other embodiments of the body cooling apparatus described herein as well.

    [0215] In exemplary embodiments, the forced air flow assembly 106 is operatively connected to, and in fluid communication with, the wettable (e.g., outer) channel forced air flow inlet port 116 of the wettable (e.g., outer) channel 110, via the wettable (e.g., outer) channel forced air flow inlet line 132 positioned at least partially within a volume defined by the wettable (e.g., outer) channel 110. This specific placement of the wettable (e.g., outer) channel forced air flow inlet line 132 facilitates cooling of the forced flow of air flowing from the forced air flow assembly 106 to the wettable (e.g., outer) channel forced air flow inlet port 116 even prior to the forced flow of air entering into the wettable (e.g., outer) channel through the wettable (e.g., outer) channel forced air flow inlet port 116. For instance, the wettable (e.g., outer) channel forced air flow inlet line 132 behaves as another dry (e.g., inner) channel and operates in a similar manner as the dry (e.g., inner) channel 112 for cooling the forced flow of air therewithin. The forced flow of air being pre-cooled increases the cooling efficiency of the body cooling apparatus significantly, at least because the pre-cooled air entering into the wettable (e.g., outer) channel 110 cools the air inside the dry (e.g., inner) channel 112 (as well as the wettable (e.g., outer) channel forced air flow inlet line 132) by heat conduction as well in addition to by indirect evaporation as described herein.

    [0216] In exemplary embodiments, the wettable (e.g., outer) channel forced air flow inlet line 132 is implemented as a pipe/conduit/tube positioned within the wettable (e.g., outer) channel 110 so as to have at least a majority of its length extending inside the wettable (e.g., outer) channel 100. For instance, at least 60 percent, or at least 70 percent, or at least 80 percent, or at least 90 percent, or at least 95 percent, or at least 100 percent of the length of the wettable (e.g., outer) channel forced air flow inlet line 132 is positioned within the volume defined by the wettable (e.g., outer) channel. In other words, the wettable (e.g., outer) channel forced air flow inlet line 132 is so positioned for the forced flow of air to travel a maximum possible distance within the wettable (e.g., outer) channel 110 before arriving at the wettable (e.g., outer) channel forced air flow inlet port 116 and entering into the wettable (e.g., outer) channel 110. Accordingly, the wettable (e.g., outer) channel forced air flow inlet line 132 can enter into the wettable (e.g., outer) channel 110 from a location distant from the wettable (e.g., outer) channel forced air flow inlet port 116 (for example, as shown in FIG. 12, or even from the end of the wettable (e.g., outer) channel opposite to the end having the wettable (e.g., outer) channel forced air flow inlet port 116) and configured within the wettable (e.g., outer) channel to extend along the dry (e.g., inner) channel 112 in any suitable form and/or shape (such as spiral, loops, curves, continuous rows) to have a maximum possible surface area of outer walls of the wettable (e.g., outer) channel forced air flow inlet line 132 in contact with the liquid feed.

    [0217] In exemplary embodiments, the wettable (e.g., outer) channel forced air flow inlet line 132 is at least partially surrounded by a liquid absorbent material (not shown, but in a similar manner as described with respect to the liquid absorbent material 410 described herein). The liquid absorbent material surrounding the wettable (e.g., outer) channel forced air flow inlet line 132 can be same as or different from the liquid absorbent material 410 surrounding the dry (e.g., inner) channel 112.

    [0218] It is to be understood herein that the wettable (e.g., outer) channel forced air flow inlet line 132 is made up of such a material that it does not interfere with the repeatedly bendable and fixable properties of the body cooling apparatus 100.

    Exemplary (Actual) Prototype of the Body Cooling Apparatus, and Components Thereof

    [0219] The following figures (i.e., FIGS. 7-9) are of photographs showing various views of an exemplary (actual) prototype body cooling apparatus [indicated as, and referred to by, reference number p200], and components thereof. For purposes of preserving clarity and consistency, in the following illustrative description, the components and structural features of the prototype body cooling apparatus p200 are assigned reference numbers prefixed by the letter p, immediately followed by the same reference numbers as the respectively corresponding components and structural features of the exemplary body cooling apparatus 200 (including a liquid feed reservoir 204 and a liquid feed connector 206), that includes therein the exemplary channeled assembly 402 (including a wettable (outer) channel liquid absorbent material 410 and a wettable (outer) channel spacer member 420), as schematically illustratively described hereinabove.

    [0220] FIGS. 7A and 7B are photographs of the front side and the back side, respectively, of the exemplary prototype body cooling apparatus p200, highlighting a straight configuration thereof. FIGS. 7C and 7D are photographs of the top side and the bottom side, respectively, of the exemplary prototype body cooling apparatus p200, highlighting a bent (actual applicable) configuration thereof.

    [0221] FIGS. 8A and 8B are photographs of close-up views of the exemplary prototype body cooling apparatus p200, highlighting connections of the forced air flow assembly p106 to the wettable (outer) and dry (inner) channels forced air flow inlet ports p116 and p120, respectively [FIG. 8A], and connections to the liquid feed reservoir p204, and the wettable (outer) channel forced air flow inlet port p116 [FIG. 8B].

    [0222] FIG. 9 is a photograph of the partly cut away front side of the exemplary prototype body cooling apparatus p200, highlighting an exemplary tubular configuration of the channeled assembly p402 (including the wettable (outer) channel p110 and the dry (inner) channel p112 therein).

    Exemplary Applications of the Body Cooling Apparatus

    [0223] Hereinabove illustratively described exemplary embodiments of the self-contained and portable body cooling apparatus (100, 200, 300, p200) are suitable for being applied to (via placing and wearing on) different body parts of a subject. Exemplary body parts of a subject upon which the body cooling apparatus is placeable and wearable are the waist area, the chest area, and the head area.

    [0224] FIGS. 10A-10C are schematic diagrams of exemplary embodiments of placement and wearing of the body cooling apparatus (100, 200, 300, p200) on different specific body parts of a subject 10: waist area [FIG. 10A], chest area [FIG. 10B], and head area [FIG. 10C].

    [0225] FIG. 11 is a photograph of an exemplary (actual) application of the exemplary prototype body cooling apparatus p200, highlighting placement and wearing thereof on the waist area body part of a subject 15.

    Body Cooling Method

    [0226] Another aspect of the present invention is provision of a method of cooling a subject (i.e., body cooling method). In a non-limiting manner, and in some embodiments, the body cooling method includes the following steps (procedures). [0227] (i) Acquiring a portable body cooling apparatus, wherein the portable body cooling apparatus which is acquired is any one of the hereinabove illustratively described embodiments of the body cooling apparatus 100, 200, 300, p200. [0228] (ii) Firmly placing and wearing the body cooling apparatus along an outer contour of a body part of the subject. [0229] (iii) Providing liquid feed to the liquid feed input assembly of the body cooling apparatus, so as to facilitate input of the liquid feed into the channeled assembly of the body cooling apparatus. [0230] (iv) Activating the forced air flow assembly of the body cooling apparatus, wherein the forced flow of air into the channeled assembly facilitates indirect evaporation of the liquid feed inside the channeled assembly, and produces a forced flow of cool air exiting from the channeled assembly and directed onto the subject, thereby cooling the subject.

    [0231] In exemplary embodiments, the step (procedure) of firmly placing and wearing the body cooling apparatus includes positioning the coupled pair of channels along the outer contour of the body part of the subject, such that the coupled pair of channels is longitudinally aligned with the body part of the subject.

    [0232] In exemplary embodiments, the step (procedure) of activating the forced air flow assembly is performed in a manner that facilitates controllable adjustment of the indirect evaporation of the liquid feed inside the channeled assembly.

    [0233] In exemplary embodiments, the step (procedure) of activating the forced air flow assembly includes controllably adjusting a power level thereof, so as to controllably adjust rate of the indirect evaporation of the liquid feed inside the channeled assembly, thereby, facilitating controllable adjustment of the forced flow of cool air exiting from the channeled assembly and directed onto the subject.

    [0234] Each of the following terms written in singular grammatical form: a, an, and the, as used herein, means at least one, or one or more. Use of the phrase one or more herein does not alter this intended meaning of a, an, or the. Accordingly, the terms a, an, and the, as used herein, may also refer to, and encompass, a plurality of the stated entity or object, unless otherwise specifically defined or stated herein, or, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. For example, the phrases: a unit, a device, an assembly, a mechanism, a component, an element, and a step or procedure, as used herein, may also refer to, and encompass, a plurality of units, a plurality of devices, a plurality of assemblies, a plurality of mechanisms, a plurality of components, a plurality of elements, and, a plurality of steps or procedures, respectively.

    [0235] Each of the following terms: includes, including, has, having, comprises, and comprising, and, their linguistic/grammatical variants, derivatives, or/and conjugates, as used herein, means including, but not limited to, and is to be taken as specifying the stated component(s), feature(s), characteristic(s), parameter(s), integer(s), or step(s), and does not preclude addition of one or more additional component(s), feature(s), characteristic(s), parameter(s), integer(s), step(s), or groups thereof. Each of these terms is considered equivalent in meaning to the phrase consisting essentially of.

    [0236] Each of the phrases consisting of, and consists of, as used herein, means including and limited to.

    [0237] Each of the phrases consisting essentially of, and consists essentially of, as used herein, means that the stated entity or item (system, system unit, system sub-unit, device, assembly, sub-assembly, mechanism, structure, component, clement, or, peripheral equipment, utility, accessory, or material, method or process, step or procedure, sub-step or sub-procedure), which is an entirety or part of an exemplary embodiment of the disclosed invention, or/and which is used for implementing an exemplary embodiment of the disclosed invention, may include at least one additional feature or characteristic being a system unit, system sub-unit, device, assembly, sub-assembly, mechanism, structure, component, or element, or, peripheral equipment, utility, accessory, or material, step or procedure, sub-step or sub-procedure), but only if each such additional feature or characteristic does not materially alter the basic novel and inventive characteristics or special technical features, of the claimed entity or item.

    [0238] The term method, as used herein, refers to a single step, procedure, manner, means, or/and technique, or a sequence, set, or group of two or more steps, procedures, manners, means, or/and techniques, for accomplishing or achieving a given task or action. Any such herein disclosed method, in a non-limiting manner, may include one or more steps, procedures, manners, means, or/and techniques, that are known or readily developed from one or more steps, procedures, manners, means, or/and techniques, previously taught about by practitioners in the relevant field(s) and art(s) of the herein disclosed invention. In any such herein disclosed method, in a non-limiting manner, the stated or presented sequential order of one or more steps, procedures, manners, means, or/and techniques, is not limited to that specifically stated or presented sequential order, for accomplishing or achieving a given task or action, unless otherwise specifically defined or stated herein, or, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Accordingly, in any such herein disclosed method, in a non-limiting manner, there may exist one or more alternative sequential orders of the same steps, procedures, manners, means, or/and techniques, for accomplishing or achieving a same given task or action, while maintaining same or similar meaning and scope of the herein disclosed invention.

    [0239] Throughout this disclosure, a numerical value of a parameter, feature, characteristic, object, or dimension, may be stated or described in terms of a numerical range format. Such a numerical range format, as used herein, illustrates implementation of some exemplary embodiments of the invention, and does not inflexibly limit the scope of the exemplary embodiments of the invention. Accordingly, a stated or described numerical range also refers to, and encompasses, all possible sub-ranges and individual numerical values (where a numerical value may be expressed as a whole, integral, or fractional number) within that stated or described numerical range. For example, a stated or described numerical range from 1 to 6 also refers to, and encompasses, all possible sub-ranges, such as from 1 to 3, from 1 to 4, from 1 to 5, from 2 to 4, from 2 to 6, from 3 to 6, etc., and individual numerical values, such as 1, 1.3, 2, 2.8, 3, 3.5, 4, 4.6, 5, 5.2, and 6, within the stated or described numerical range of from 1 to 6. This applies regardless of the numerical breadth, extent, or size, of the stated or described numerical range.

    [0240] Moreover, for stating or describing a numerical range, the phrase in a range of between about a first numerical value and about a second numerical value, is considered equivalent to, and meaning the same as, the phrase in a range of from about a first numerical value to about a second numerical value, and, thus, the two equivalently meaning phrases may be used interchangeably. For example, for stating or describing the numerical range of room temperature, the phrase room temperature refers to a temperature in a range of between about 20 C. and about 25 C., is considered equivalent to, and meaning the same as, the phrase room temperature refers to a temperature in a range of from about 20 C. to about 25 C..

    [0241] The term about, as used herein, refers to 10% of the stated numerical value.

    [0242] The phrase operatively connected, as used herein, equivalently refers to the corresponding synonymous phrases operatively joined, and operatively attached. These phrases, as used herein, mean that the described or/and shown entities are configured connected to each other, in an operative (ready-for-operation/ready-for-use) manner. Such operative connection, operative joint, or operative attachment, between or among the entities is according to one type, or a plurality of types, of a mechanical (physical, structural), or/and an electrical, or/and an electronic, or/and an electro-mechanical, connection or connections, involving one or more corresponding type(s) or kind(s) of mechanical (physical, structural), or/and electrical, or/and electronic, or/and electro-mechanical, equipment and components. Optionally, such operative connection, operative joint, or operative attachment, between or among the entities, may include, or may involve, one or more type(s) or kind(s) of computerized hardware or/and software equipment and components.

    [0243] The phrase operably connectable, as used herein, equivalently refers to the corresponding synonymous phrases operably joinable to, and operably attachable to. These phrases, as used herein, mean that the described or/and shown entities are configured connectable to each other (i.e., capable of being connected to each other, having ability to be connected to each other, or having potential to be connected to each other), for subsequently forming an operative connection, an operative joint, or an operative attachment, between or among the entities. Such operable connectability, operable joinability, or operable attachability, between or among the entities is according to one type, or a plurality of types, of a mechanical (physical, structural), or/and an electrical, or/and an electronic, or/and an electro-mechanical, connection or connections, involving one or more corresponding type(s) or kind(s) of mechanical (physical, structural), or/and electrical, or/and electronic, or/and electro-mechanical, equipment and components. Optionally, such operable connectability, operable joinability, or operable attachability, between or among the entities, may include, or may involve, one or more type(s) or kind(s) of computerized hardware or/and software equipment and components.

    [0244] It is to be fully understood that certain aspects, characteristics, and features, of the invention, which are, for clarity, illustratively described and presented in the context or format of a plurality of separate embodiments, may also be illustratively described and presented in any suitable combination or sub-combination in the context or format of a single embodiment. Conversely, various aspects, characteristics, and features, of the invention which are illustratively described and presented in combination or sub-combination in the context or format of a single embodiment, may also be illustratively described and presented in the context or format of a plurality of separate embodiments.

    [0245] Although the invention has been illustratively described and presented by way of specific exemplary embodiments, and examples thereof, it is evident that many alternatives, modifications, or/and variations, thereof, will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Accordingly, it is intended that all such alternatives, modifications, or/and variations, are encompassed by the broad scope of the appended claims.

    [0246] All publications, patents, and or/and patent applications, cited or referred to in this disclosure are herein incorporated in their entirety by reference into the specification, to the same extent as if each individual publication, patent, or/and patent application, was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated herein by reference. In addition, citation or identification of any reference in this specification shall not be construed or understood as an admission that such reference represents or corresponds to prior art of the present invention. To the extent that section headings are used, they should not be construed as necessarily limiting.