Researcher develops a wrist strap Climati-that cools you in heatwaves

A Nottingham Trent University student has developed a wrist strap which cools a person’s blood flow to soothe people during heatwaves. The technology centres on the use of a Peltier device and heat sink – which are usually found in computers – to target pulse points in a person’s wrist and apply a cooling sensation. The aim is to make a person feel more relaxed psychologically, rather than reduce their body temperature which is regulated naturally by homeostasis.

Wearable technologies have ignited a new type of human-computer interaction with the rapid development of information and communication technologies. Wearable sensor technology is being used for health monitoring, such as the use of wearables for continuous monitoring of human vital signs, e.g. heart rate, respiratory rate, energy expenditure, blood pressure and blood glucose, etc.It also covers examples of wearables for early diagnosis of diseases, prevention of chronic conditions, improved clinical management of neurodegenerative conditions, and prompt response to emergency situations

This is a new addition to the list. William Walter, 22, says his prototype - the Climati - could help athletes in difficult conditions and support older people in rising temperatures.

“Many people can panic in the heat and feel overwhelmed on hot days,” said William, a BA Product Design student from Studley near Birmingham.

“Heatwaves particularly affect young children, older people and those in stressful working environments.

“But by providing an on-going cooling sensation, this stress can be alleviated to help people feel better.

“The sensation makes people feel cooler, rather than it actually reducing body temperature.

“With the surge of wearable technology today, this is an effective and real way of supporting people who may already be wearing things like smartwatches.”

The technology can be transferred from a wrist strap and applied to other pulse points on the body, such as at the back of the neck.

The Peltier device also has potential to be used to charge the battery inside the device by converting heat flux from the body into usable energy. This could make the wearable fully self-sufficient piece of technology.

Unlike other methods to cool down, like a cold flannel or icepack, the Climati would stay at a constant set temperature and never warm to room temperature.

The device can cool down by as much as 10 degrees Celsius in a matter of seconds, but even a 2-degree fall in temperature can provide cooling sensations and comfort.

A vibration chip is included which can be toggled on or off to provide a further calming sensation to the wearer.

The Climati went on public display for Show, Nottingham Trent University’s art and design degree show.

James Dale, Head of Product Design at Nottingham Trent University, said: “Will has considered the needs of people in the future following predictions of rising global temperatures.

“He has designed something unique which could help people cope better in the heat that can be easily integrated into existing technologies.

“His working prototype has proved the concept an