| abstract |
Embodiments of the subject invention pertain to a method and apparatus for heating or cooling. Embodiments relate to a method and apparatus utilizing a vapor compression cycle to accomplish active heating or cooling. In a specific embodiment, the subject invention relates to a lightweight, compact, reliable, and efficient heating or cooling system for underwater applications. The subject system can provide heating or cooling stress relief to individuals operating under, for example, hazardous conditions, or in low temperature underwater environments where passive protective clothing provides insufficient mitigation of cooling stress. Further embodiments can be utilized to provide heat stress relief to users who are working in thermally encapsulated ensembles that hinder the body's natural ability to expel heat. The subject system can be utilized in other applications that can benefit from this type of heating or cooling system. The performance of this system cannot be matched simply by using smaller versions of currently available designs or technologies. |