A vehicle occupant drowsiness mitigation system includes a microclimate that has multiple thermal effectors that are configured to thermally condition an occupant. The system includes an input that is configured to provide a signal that is indicative of a drowsiness condition of the occupant. A controller is in communication with the input and the multiple thermal effectors. The controller is configured to regulate the multiple thermal effectors in response to the signal to mitigate the drowsiness condition. The controller has different mitigation levels that are configured to provide different thermal conditioning to the occupant using the multiple thermal effectors.
A61M 21/00 - Other devices or methods to cause a change in the state of consciousnessDevices for producing or ending sleep by mechanical, optical, or acoustical means, e.g. for hypnosis
B60H 1/00 - Heating, cooling or ventilating devices
The present disclosure related to a method for estimating a surface temperature of a trim layer. The method comprises determining a first heat transfer rate and a second heat transfer rate. The method comprises calculating a rate of change of the surface temperature based on the first and second heat transfer rates, and optionally one or more additional heat transfer rates. The method comprises updating an estimated surface temperature of the trim layer from a prior program cycle based on the rate of change of the surface temperature and the estimated surface temperature of the trim layer from the prior program cycle.
A comfort system and method of operating a comfort system, the method includes inflating first air cells by passing air through a respective first valve before entering the first air cells; inflating second air cells, by passing air through a respective second valve before entering the second air cells; deflating the first air cells by venting the air from the first air cells through a shared vent valve connected to the first air cells; and deflating the second air cells by: i) venting the air from the second air cells through a respective third valve associated with each of the second air cells; and/or ii) if the one or more air sources are not operating, then deflating the second air cells by venting the air from the second air cells through the respective second valve and the shared valve.
A method for estimating a temperature of an air stream. The method comprises determining a first and second heat transfer rate to or from the air stream, and optionally one or more additional heat transfer rates to or from the air stream. The first and second heat transfer rates are based on a first and second temperature, respectively, applied to the air stream. The rate of change of the air stream temperature is calculated based on the first and second heat transfer rates and optionally the one or more additional heat transfer rates. An estimated temperature of the air stream is updated from a prior program cycle based on the rate of change of the air stream temperature and the estimated air stream temperature from the prior program cycle.
G01K 13/024 - Thermometers specially adapted for specific purposes for measuring temperature of moving fluids or granular materials capable of flow of moving gases
G01K 7/42 - Circuits effecting compensation of thermal inertiaCircuits for predicting the stationary value of a temperature
A method for control of a thermal effector and a system for thermally conditioning an occupant. The method comprises receiving a setpoint heat transfer rate, determining a target temperature, and operating the thermal effector (18) to thermally influence the surface and/or airstream to meet the target temperature. The system comprises at least two thermal effectors located in at least two zones of a seat, and a dedicated climate controller for each of the at least two thermal effectors. The dedicated climate controllers independently operate the at least two thermal effectors with individual control loops.
12 - Land, air and water vehicles; parts of land vehicles
Goods & Services
Vehicle components and parts for seat occupant conditioning,
namely, heating apparatus and air cooling apparatus for
vehicles featuring a massage function and ventilation. Vehicle seat component, namely, an integrated thermal and
pneumatic device featuring a massage function, ventilation,
and electric fans for warming and cooling vehicle seats.
7.
COMBINED COMFORT AND SUSPENSION SYSTEM FOR A VEHICLE SEAT
A combined comfort and suspension system for a vehicle seat that includes a suspension system; and a comfort system; the comfort system is attached to the suspension system before the combined comfort and suspension system is installed in the vehicle seat.
A device and method of thermally conditioning a vehicle seat, the method includes activating a thermal conditioning system, the thermal conditioning system having a pushing device, a thermal device configured to generate heating and/or cooling, and a trim or cover layer; compressing the thermal device against the trim or cover layer; the method is configured to increase or decrease a temperature of the trim or cover layer of the vehicle seat.
A comfort system for a vehicle seat that includes a thermal system having a carrier on which one or more thermal elements are arranged and that are configured to generate a heating function and/or a cooling function; and a pneumatic system having a carrier supporting one or more air cells; the carrier of the pneumatic system is connected to the carrier of the thermal system, and the carrier of the thermal system includes one or more apertures through which at least part of the carrier of the pneumatic system is pulled or woven through to connect the pneumatic system to the thermal system.
A method of making a comfort system for a vehicle seat, the method includes providing a substrate for making a first comfort system; separating the substrate into a usable substrate and an excess substrate; using at least a portion of the usable substrate to make the first comfort system for the vehicle seat; and using at least a portion of the excess substrate to make a second comfort system for the vehicle seat or for another vehicle seat.
Devices for heating, refrigerating and ventilating vehicles; air conditioning devices for vehicle seats; aerating devices for use in vehicles; temperature control devices for use in vehicles.
09 - Scientific and electric apparatus and instruments
Goods & Services
Sensors for determining position; sensors for use in connection with autonomous vehicle sensing systems; sensor systems comprised of a circuit, control module, sensors, computer hardware and software for detecting vehicle driver hands on the steering wheel for use in connection with autonomous vehicle driving systems; sensors for detecting the presence of a driver of a vehicle; temperature sensor; electronic modules for detecting the presence of a driver of a vehicle used with autonomous vehicle driving systems; sensor systems comprised of a circuit, control module, sensors, computer hardware and software used to control temperature in vehicle steering wheels.
A comfort assembly for a vehicle seat cushion, the comfort system includes a carrier having a thermal device; a spacer layer attached to the B-side of the carrier; and an effector device attached to the spacer layer so that the spacer layer is between the effector device and the B-side of the carrier; the effector device is attached to the carrier before the comfort assembly is installed onto an A-surface of the cushion of the vehicle seat.
A comfort system for a vehicle seat that includes a thermal system having a bag structure, the bag structure having a top layer, an opposing bottom layer, and an air mover that is configured to push or pull air into or out of the bag structure to be distributed through one or more ventilation apertures defined in the top layer; and a pneumatic system located within the bag structure.
42 - Scientific, technological and industrial services, research and design
Goods & Services
Product quality evaluation; Analyzing and evaluating automotive cabin thermal and wellness features; Consultation in the field of automotive cabin thermal and wellness features; Consulting on, analyzing and evaluating automotive cabin thermal and wellness features, namely, providing statistical information for product development purposes; Providing automotive cabin thermal and wellness benchmarking data; Benchmarking services, namely, analyzing and compiling data for automotive cabin comfort; Product benchmarking services, namely, product development services
A blower configured to be positioned in confined spaces and to provide ventilation of a fluid, such as temperature controlled air, is disclosed. In various embodiments, the blower is configured to have a reduced axial thickness, which can be desired in such confined spaces. In some embodiments, the blower has an integral filter, a wire channel for the routing of one or more wires, and/or an exposed backplate. In some embodiments, the blower has a snap-fit circuit board, containment system for mounting the motor, one or more vanes for directing fluid flow, shrouded impeller, and/or integrated connector.
A method for determining whether to heat or cool a surface. Hie method comprises determining a first and second heat transfer rate to or from the surface based on, respectively, a first and second temperature applied to the surface. The first temperature is associated with cabin air. The second temperature is associated with a material layer. Tire method comprises estimating a temperature of the surface based on the first and second heat transfer rates. Tire method comprises obtaining a setpoint temperature and comparing the setpoint temperature to the estimated temperature of the surface.
A system for thermally conditioning and moving a fluid includes a thermoelectric device to convert electrical energy into thermal energy and produce a temperature change in response to an electrical current being applied thereto. The thermoelectric device can include a main-side and a waste side. A fluid moving device can produce a fluid flow that is in thermal communication with the thermoelectric device so that the thermal energy generated by the thermoelectric device is transferred to or from the fluid flow. A flow control valve selectively can direct the fluid flow along a main-side fluid flow path and/or a waste side fluid flow path.
A microclimate system for a vehicle occupant includes multiple microclimate thermal effectors. Each of the microclimate thermal effectors has a corresponding thermal effector controller and is configured to at least partially control an occupant thermal comfort. Each of the microclimate thermal effectors includes at least one sensor configured to determine a microclimate parameter corresponding to at least one microclimate thermal effector of the multiple microclimate thermal effectors. A microclimate system controller is in communication with a plurality of thermal effector controllers. An optimizer is configured to apply a corresponding weighting value from a plurality of weighting values to each thermal effector controller in the plurality microclimate thermal effectors.
A vehicle comfort system that includes one or more local or onboard information sources; one or more external information sources; one or more local comfort systems; and one or more controllers configured to receive data from the one or more local or onboard information sources and the one or more external information sources to determine an occupant comfort value, and based on the determined occupant comfort value, the one or more controllers are configured to prescribe and/or activate one or more of the local comfort devices to maintain and/or change the occupant comfort value.
B60R 16/037 - Electric or fluid circuits specially adapted for vehicles and not otherwise provided forArrangement of elements of electric or fluid circuits specially adapted for vehicles and not otherwise provided for electric for occupant comfort
B60N 2/22 - Seats specially adapted for vehiclesArrangement or mounting of seats in vehicles the seat or part thereof being movable, e.g. adjustable the back-rest being adjustable
A method for estimating a surface temperature of a ventilated seat. A heat transfer rate to or from a material layer is determined based on a temperature applied to the material layer by convective air. A temperature of the material layer is estimated based on the heat transfer rate to or from the material layer. A heat transfer rate to or from a trim layer is determined based on the temperature of the material layer, which is applied to the trim layer. A change rate of the surface temperature is calculated based on the heat transfer rate to or from the trim layer. A surface temperature is estimated based on the change rate of the surface temperature.
G01K 7/42 - Circuits effecting compensation of thermal inertiaCircuits for predicting the stationary value of a temperature
G01K 13/024 - Thermometers specially adapted for specific purposes for measuring temperature of moving fluids or granular materials capable of flow of moving gases
23.
COMBINED SEAT HEATER AND PNEUMATIC SYSTEM AND METHOD OF MAKING AND INSTALLING THE SAME
A comfort system for a vehicle seat that includes a heating system including a carrier and one or more heating elements that are configured to generate heat; a pneumatic system including a carrier and one or more air cells that are configured to be inflated and deflated; the carrier of the pneumatic system is connected to the carrier of the heating system at one or more connecting regions before the comfort system is installed in the vehicle seat.
A microclimate system for a vehicle occupant includes a seat that is configured to provide an interface between an occupant and a seating surface, an actuator that is configured to adjust a seat positioning that characterizes the interface, at least one microclimate thermal effector that is in thermal communication with the seat at the interface, and a controller that is in communication with the microclimate thermal effector. The controller is configured to regulate the microclimate thermal effector based upon the interface.
A thermal conditioning system for a vehicle seat or other surface includes a thermoelectric Peltier device (TED) with a main side and a waste side. A flap adjusts a proportion of an airflow over the main and waste side airflow paths based on one or more operational parameters of the system. The operational parameters can include a power provided to the TED, the flow rate of the airflow, a thermal efficiency between the TED and the airflow, and/or a setpoint temperature of the airflow.
A microclimate system for a vehicle occupant includes multiple microclimate thermal effectors. Each of the microclimate communication with the microclimate thermal effectors and includes a plurality of first transfer functions. Each of the first transfer functions models a corresponding microclimate thermal effector in the plurality of microclimate thermal effectors. A system transfer function models the microclimate system. Each of the first transfer functions is nested within the system transfer function.
A thermal conditioning system for conditioning a seat surface of a vehicle or other surface. The system includes a thermoelectric Peltier device with a main side and a waste side. A flap adjusts a proportion of an airflow between a main side airflow path and a waste side airflow path based on whether the surface is occupied, the power provided the thermoelectric Peltier device, the flow rates along the airflow paths, the power provided to a blower, and/or other factors.
A method for providing thermal contrast therapy to a vehicle occupant. The method comprises first operating a heating device to apply a first temperature for a first period of time and second operating the heating device and a cooling device in an alternating manner for a plurality of time intervals. The thermal contrast therapy achieves about a 10° C. to 20° C. change in a temperature of a surface of a seat and/or about a 3° C. to 6° C. change in a skin temperature of the vehicle occupant.
A method for providing localized thermal therapy to a vehicle occupant. The method comprises first operating a heating device to apply a first temperature for a first period of time and second operating the heating device to maintain a skin temperature of about 36°C to 37°C and/or a seat surface temperature of about 43°C to 46°C.
A method for providing pulsing contrast therapy to a vehicle occupant. The method comprises first operating a heating device to apply a first temperature for a first period of time and second operating the heating device and a cooling device in an alternating manner for a plurality of time intervals. The thermal pulsing therapy achieves about a 0.5°C to 2°C change in a temperature of a surface of a seat and/or about a 0.2°C to 1.5°C change in a skin temperature of the vehicle occupant.
A method for providing localized thermal therapy to a vehicle occupant. The method comprises first operating a heating device to apply a first temperature for a first period of time and second operating the heating device to maintain a skin temperature of about 36° C. to 37° C. and/or a seat surface temperature of about 43° C. to 46° C.
A method for providing pulsing contrast therapy to a vehicle occupant. The method comprises first operating a heating device to apply a first temperature for a first period of time and second operating the heating device and a cooling device in an alternating manner for a plurality of time intervals. The thermal pulsing therapy achieves about a 0.5° C. to 2° C. change in a temperature of a surface of a seat and/or about a 0.2° C. to 1.5° C. change in a skin temperature of the vehicle occupant.
A method for providing thermal contrast therapy to a vehicle occupant. The method comprises first operating a heating device to apply a first temperature for a first period of time and second operating the heating device and a cooling device in an alternating manner for a plurality of time intervals. The thermal contrast therapy achieves about a 10°C to 20°C change in a temperature of a surface of a seat and/or about a 3°C to 6°C change in a skin temperature of the vehicle occupant.
09 - Scientific and electric apparatus and instruments
11 - Environmental control apparatus
Goods & Services
Electronic modules for monitoring and controlling climate
control systems used to adjust the temperature of vehicle
seats, interior surfaces, and cabin air; electronic modules
for monitoring and controlling electric thermal
conditioners, namely, resistive heaters, thermoelectric
heating and cooling devices, and electric motor-driven fluid
moving devices and compressors; sensors for use in
monitoring and controlling climate control systems in
vehicles. Temperature controlled ventilation equipment for seats,
namely, ventilation assemblies having one or more of heating
and cooling elements, channels, ducts, brackets, heat
exchangers, electronic controls and manual controls; vehicle
climate-control system for heating and cooling of occupant
support surfaces and occupant touch surfaces in vehicles
comprised in whole or in part of refrigeration systems, heat
pump systems and components thereof; thermoelectric heaters
and coolers for vehicles; electric heaters for commercial
use in vehicles, namely, electric resistive heaters; thermal
conditioning devices, namely, heat exchangers not being
parts of machines for heating and cooling of occupant
support surfaces, occupant touch surfaces and cabin air in
vehicles.
Vehicle massage seats comprised of inflatable air cells,
pumps and valves for lumbar support; vehicle massage seats
for lumbar support and pulsation; massage apparatus; massage
apparatus for neck and shoulders; vehicle massage seats;
massagers in the nature of electromechanical massage
mechanism for chairs; massaging apparatus for personal use;
electric massage apparatus for use in vehicle seats.
12 - Land, air and water vehicles; parts of land vehicles
Goods & Services
Massage apparatus; massage chairs with built-in
electromechanical massage mechanism; massage chairs with
built-in massage apparatus; massage chairs with built-in
electronic massage apparatus; massage pads for chairs and
vehicle seats. Plastic parts of land vehicles, namely, automobiles; plastic
parts for vehicles, namely, injection-molded parts for
automobiles; parts for fuel systems for use in automobiles,
comprising fill and vent valves, and onboard vapor recovery
systems comprising control valves; parts for engine systems
for use in automobiles, comprising valves, check valves,
shut-off valves, water cooling valves; parts for vehicle
seats, namely, inflatable bladders, sensors, air pumps;
vehicle seats incorporating electronic massage apparatus.
An air distribution device that includes a seat plate. The seat plate includes one or more cushion engaging features. The one or more cushion engaging features are configured to engage one or more corresponding plate engaging features provided on a seat cushion of a vehicle seat.
A battery cooling system for a battery pack includes an evaporator having an exterior surface arranged in contact with the battery pack, an inlet and an outlet. A condenser has an inlet and an outlet. A pump has an inlet and an outlet. A first conduit connects the outlet of the evaporator to an inlet of the condenser. A second conduit connects the outlet of the condenser to the inlet of the pump. A third conduit connects the outlet of the pump to the inlet of the condenser. A fan is arranged adjacent to the condenser. During operation, a first refrigerant flows through a coolant loop passing through the evaporator, the first conduit, the condenser, the second conduit, the pump and the third conduit. During normal charge and discharge operation, liquid phase cooling is performed and during fast charge and discharge operation, flow boiling is performed.
B60L 58/26 - Methods or circuit arrangements for monitoring or controlling batteries or fuel cells, specially adapted for electric vehicles for monitoring or controlling batteries for controlling the temperature of batteries by cooling
39.
FLEXIBLE SUBSTRATE BASED STEERING WHEEL HEATER AND SENSOR
A flexible circuit comprises a flexible substrate made of an electrically non-conducting material and electrically conductive traces disposed on the flexible substrate. The flexible substrate comprises a center portion (302) and a plurality of side portions (306-1, 306-2, 306-3, 306-4) extending perpendicularly from the center portion on opposite sides of the center portion. Centers of the side portions on one side of the center portion are collinear with centers of corresponding side portions on an opposite side of the center portion.
B60R 21/015 - Electrical circuits for triggering safety arrangements in case of vehicle accidents or impending vehicle accidents including means for detecting the presence or position of passengers, passenger seats or child seats, e.g. for disabling triggering
G01D 5/24 - Mechanical means for transferring the output of a sensing memberMeans for converting the output of a sensing member to another variable where the form or nature of the sensing member does not constrain the means for convertingTransducers not specially adapted for a specific variable using electric or magnetic means influencing the magnitude of a current or voltage by varying capacitance
40.
OCCUPANT CLOTHING AND ANTHROPOMETRIC PREDICTOR FOR THERMAL EFFECTOR CONTROL
A microclimate control system for an occupant includes a component that has a thermal effector that is configured to provide thermal conditioning to an occupant. An image capture unit is configured to receive an image of the occupant. A controller is in communication with the image capture unit, the controller includes an extractor algorithm that is configured to extract occupant personal parameters based upon the image. The controller includes a first estimator that is configured to predict an occupant clothing insulation value based upon the occupant personal parameters, and a second estimator is configured to predict occupant anthromorphic characteristics based upon the occupant personal parameters. The controller is configured to regulate the thermal effector based upon the occupant clothing insulation value and the occupant anthromorphic characteristics.
12 - Land, air and water vehicles; parts of land vehicles
Goods & Services
Vehicle seat component, namely, an integrated thermal and pneumatic device featuring a massage function, ventilation, and electric fans for warming and cooling vehicle seats; vehicle components and parts for seat occupant conditioning, namely, heating apparatus and air cooling apparatus for vehicles featuring a massage function and ventilation
09 - Scientific and electric apparatus and instruments
Goods & Services
Electronic devices and downloadable software both for climate and seat control systems, sold as a unit; Electronic devices and downloadable software both for controlling temperature and comfort of vehicle seats and interior surfaces of vehicles, sold as a unit; Electronic devices and downloadable software both for controlling electronic massage apparatus, namely, massage chairs with built-in electric massage apparatus and vehicle seats with built-in electric massage apparatus, sold as a unit; Downloadable software for climate and seat control systems; Downloadable software for controlling temperature and comfort of vehicle seats and interior surfaces of vehicles; Downloadable software for controlling electronic massage apparatus, namely, massage chairs with built-in electric massage apparatus and vehicle seats with built-in electric massage apparatus.
An air distribution device for a vehicle seat, that includes: a top cover comprising one or more ports; a bottom cover connected to the top cover to form a housing, the bottom cover comprising an opening; and an air moving device comprising an impeller, the impeller being located in the housing between the top cover and the bottom cover; air is drawn into the housing by the air moving device through the opening in the bottom cover and then exhausted from the housing through the one or more ports in the top cover.
09 - Scientific and electric apparatus and instruments
Goods & Services
Sensors for determining position; electronic sensors for use in connection with autonomous vehicle sensing systems; Sensor systems comprised of an electric circuit, control panel, electronic sensors, computer hardware and recorded software for detecting vehicle driver hands on the steering wheel for use in connection with autonomous vehicle driving systems; electronic sensors for detecting the presence of a driver of a vehicle; temperature sensor; Electronic modules in the nature of integrated circuit modules for use with infrared detectors for detecting the presence of a driver of a vehicle used with autonomous vehicle driving systems; Sensor systems comprised of an electronic circuit, control panel, electronic sensors, computer hardware and recorded software used to control temperature in vehicle steering wheels
A conditioning system operable in a vehicle. The conditioning system comprises a thermal effector, a first local sensor (24) associated with the thermal effector (12, 14), and a controller (16, 18) in signaling communication with the thermal effector and the first local sensor. The controller or an additional controller dynamically estimates a thermal condition remote from and at least partially influenced by the thermal effector. The dynamic estimation is based on a first temperature sensed by the first local sensor (24) and optionally a second temperature sensed by an optional second local sensor (26). The controller controls the thermal effector based on the dynamically estimated thermal condition.
An occupant thermal conditioning system includes multiple zones, each of the multiple zones correspond to different body segments of an occupant. A microclimate environment has a component in one of the zones, and includes a vibrator and a thermal effector that are configured to thermally condition the occupant. An input is configured to provide a signal that is indicative of occupant thermal discomfort in one of the zones that correspond to one of the body segments. A controller is configured to regulate the multiple zones using multiple thermal effectors. The controller is in communication with the input, the vibrator and the thermal effector. The controller is configured to regulate the vibrator and the thermal effector in response to the signal to vasodilate the one of the body segments and increase its thermal receptivity to achieve a desired thermal comfort for the one of the body segments.
B60R 16/023 - Electric or fluid circuits specially adapted for vehicles and not otherwise provided forArrangement of elements of electric or fluid circuits specially adapted for vehicles and not otherwise provided for electric for transmission of signals between vehicle parts or subsystems
47.
METHOD FOR CONTROLLING A CONDUCTIVE OR CONVECTIVE EFFECTOR
The present disclosure relates to a method for controlling a thermal effector in a vehicle. The method comprises calculating a heat transfer rate relative to a conditioned medium and calculating a target temperature of the thermal effector required to effectuate the heat transfer rate relative to the conditioned medium. The heat transfer rate is required to arrive at the setpoint temperature of the conditioned medium. The heat transfer rate is based on a setpoint temperature and a dynamically estimated temperature of the conditioned medium. The thermal effector is controlled to arrive at the target temperature.
12 - Land, air and water vehicles; parts of land vehicles
Goods & Services
Vehicle seat component, namely, an integrated thermal and pneumatic device for warming and cooling vehicle seats featuring ventilation and electric fans and a massage function; vehicle components and parts for seat occupant conditioning, namely, heating apparatus and air cooling apparatus for vehicle seats featuring ventilation and massage function
The present disclosure related to a method for estimating a surface temperature of a trim layer. The method comprises determining a first heat transfer rate and a second heat transfer rate. The method comprises calculating a rate of change of the surface temperature based on the first and second heat transfer rates, and optionally one or more additional heat transfer rates. The method comprises updating an estimated surface temperature of the trim layer from a prior program cycle based on the rate of change of the surface temperature and the estimated surface temperature of the trim layer from the prior program cycle.
G01K 7/42 - Circuits effecting compensation of thermal inertiaCircuits for predicting the stationary value of a temperature
A47C 7/74 - Adaptations for incorporating lamps, radio sets, bars, telephones, ventilation, heating or cooling arrangements or the like for ventilation, heating or cooling
A method for estimating a temperature of an air stream. The method comprises determining a first and second heat transfer rate to or from the air stream, and optionally one or more additional heat transfer rates to or from the air stream. The first and second heat transfer rates are based on a first and second temperature, respectively, applied to the air stream. The rate of change of the air stream temperature is calculated based on the first and second heat transfer rates and optionally the one or more additional heat transfer rates. An estimated temperature of the air stream is updated from a prior program cycle based on the rate of change of the air stream temperature and the estimated air stream temperature from the prior program cycle.
G01K 7/42 - Circuits effecting compensation of thermal inertiaCircuits for predicting the stationary value of a temperature
G01K 13/024 - Thermometers specially adapted for specific purposes for measuring temperature of moving fluids or granular materials capable of flow of moving gases
09 - Scientific and electric apparatus and instruments
11 - Environmental control apparatus
Goods & Services
Electronic modules for monitoring and controlling climate control systems used to adjust the temperature of vehicle seats, interior surfaces, and cabin air; Electronic modules for monitoring and controlling electric thermal conditioners, namely, resistive heaters, thermoelectric heating and cooling devices, and electric motor-driven fluid moving devices and compressors; Sensors for use in monitoring and controlling climate control systems in vehicles Temperature controlled ventilation equipment for seats, namely, ventilation assemblies having one or more of heating and cooling elements, channels, ducts, brackets, heat exchangers, electronic controls and manual controls; Vehicle climate-control system for heating and cooling of occupant support surfaces and occupant touch surfaces in vehicles comprised in whole or in part of refrigeration systems, heat pump systems and components thereof; Thermoelectric heaters and coolers for vehicles; electric heaters for commercial use in vehicles, namely, electric resistive heaters; Thermal conditioning devices, namely, heat exchangers not being parts of machines for heating and cooling of occupant support surfaces, occupant touch surfaces and cabin air in vehicles
Massage apparatus; Massage apparatus for neck and shoulders; Massagers in the nature of electromechanical massage mechanism for chairs; Massaging apparatus for personal use; Electric massage apparatus for use in vehicle seats; Lumbar support and pulsation apparatus for vehicle massage seats
09 - Scientific and electric apparatus and instruments
Goods & Services
Electronic devices, namely, controllers, and downloadable software both for operating vehicle climate and seat control systems, sold as a unit; Electronic devices, namely, controllers, and downloadable software both for controlling temperature and comfort of vehicle seats and interior surfaces of vehicles, sold as a unit; Electronic devices, namely, controllers, and downloadable software both for controlling electronic massage apparatus, namely, massage chairs with built-in electric massage apparatus and vehicle seats with built-in electric massage apparatus, sold as a unit; Downloadable software for operating vehicle climate and seat control systems; Downloadable software for controlling temperature and comfort of vehicle seats and interior surfaces of vehicles; Downloadable software for controlling electronic massage apparatus, namely, massage chairs with built-in electric massage apparatus and vehicle seats with built-in electric massage apparatus
A distribution system for a vehicle seat. The distribution system includes one or more plenums that each have a cap layer, a support layer, and an open space formed between the cap layer and the support layer. The support layer is a generally rigid material and the cap layer is a generally flexible material that is connected to the support layer. The open space includes one or more baffles that assist in directing fluid between a blower connected to the one or more plenums and one or more ventilation holes.
B60N 2/06 - Seats specially adapted for vehiclesArrangement or mounting of seats in vehicles the seat or part thereof being movable, e.g. adjustable the whole seat being movable slidable
A vehicle occupant drowsiness mitigation system includes a microclimate that has multiple thermal effectors that are configured to thermally condition an occupant. The system includes an input that is configured to provide a signal that is indicative of a drowsiness condition of the occupant. A controller is in communication with the input and the multiple thermal effectors. The controller is configured to regulate the multiple thermal effectors in response to the signal to mitigate the drowsiness condition. The controller has different mitigation levels that are configured to provide different thermal conditioning to the occupant using the multiple thermal effectors.
B60H 1/00 - Heating, cooling or ventilating devices
B60K 28/06 - Safety devices for propulsion-unit control, specially adapted for, or arranged in, vehicles, e.g. preventing fuel supply or ignition in the event of potentially dangerous conditions responsive to conditions relating to the driver responsive to incapacity of driver
B60W 50/16 - Tactile feedback to the driver, e.g. vibration or force feedback to the driver on the steering wheel or the accelerator pedal
A61B 5/18 - Devices for psychotechnicsTesting reaction times for vehicle drivers
A61M 21/00 - Other devices or methods to cause a change in the state of consciousnessDevices for producing or ending sleep by mechanical, optical, or acoustical means, e.g. for hypnosis
12 - Land, air and water vehicles; parts of land vehicles
Goods & Services
Structural parts for fuel injection systems for engines for use in automobiles, featuring fill and vent valves, fuel level sensors, fuel pumps, fuel pump mountings, and onboard vapor recovery systems comprising control valves; Vehicle engine parts for use in automobiles, namely, valves, check valves, shut-off valves, water cooling valve Massage apparatus; Massagers in the nature of electromechanical massage mechanism for chairs; Massage chairs with built-in massage apparatus; Electronic massage apparatus, namely, massage chairs; massage apparatus in the form of pads for chairs and vehicle seats Structural parts made of plastic for automobiles; Structural parts of land vehicles featuring injection-molded parts for automobiles; structural parts of land vehicles, namely, vehicle seats featuring inflatable bladders, sensors, air pumps; Vehicle seats with a built-in electric massage apparatus
A method for controlling an occupant microclimate system includes determining an occupant personal parameter, determining a vehicle environmental condition, predicting an initial set point value for a plurality of thermal effectors associated with the occupant from a portion of a master dataset based on the occupant personal parameter3 and the vehicle environmental condition, and regulating the plurality of thermal effectors based upon the initial set point values.
A method of controlling an occupant microclimate system includes determining vehicle environmental conditions, determining occupant personal parameters, predicting a multiple of occupant thermal comfort values based upon at least the environmental conditions, cabin temperature data, and occupant personal parameters. The predicting is performed using a multiple of different machine learning algorithm relationships to provide the multiple of occupant thermal comfort values, evaluating the multiple of occupant thermal comfort values using a voting classifier to provide an estimated occupant thermal comfort, and regulating at least one thermal effector based upon the estimated occupant thermal comfort.
A microclimate control system for a seated occupant includes a seat having a cushion and a back respectively including a first array of pressure sensors and a second array of pressure sensors. The first array of pressure sensors provides a cushion occupant output. The second array of pressure sensors provides a back occupant output. The cushion and back occupant outputs correspond to load distributions from the seated occupant. At least one thermal effector is configured to provide thermal conditioning to the seated occupant. A controller is in communication with the first and second arrays of pressure sensors and with the at least one thermal effector. The controller includes an occupant personal parameters algorithm configured to extract occupant personal parameters based upon the cushion and back occupant outputs. The occupant personal parameters include at least two of an occupant weight, an occupant height, and an occupant gender. The occupant personal parameter algorithm estimates an occupant clothing insulation value from the occupant personal parameters. The controller is configured to regulate the at least one thermal effector based upon the occupant clothing insulation value.
A method of providing thermal conditioning for a vehicle occupant according to an example of the present disclosure includes determining a respective target temperature for each of a plurality of discrete OPZs. Each OPZ is associated with a different occupant body area. The determining is based on a difference between a first OTS indicative of a target heat flux for the occupant and a second OTS indicative of an estimated heat flux experienced by the occupant, wherein the respective target temperatures differ between the OPZs. The method includes providing thermal conditioning in each OPZ based on the target temperature for the OPZ, which includes utilizing at least one thermal effector in the OPZ. The method also includes receiving a temperature offset value for a particular one of the OPZs from the occupant, and adjusting the target temperature for the particular one of the OPZs based on the temperature offset value.
An example method of providing thermal conditioning includes providing a HAL having a plurality of input drivers that obtain input data from temperature sensors, and a plurality of output drivers that control a discrete thermal effectors in discrete OPZs in a vehicle cabin. An EVAL obtains input data from the HAL and estimates a heat flux experienced by an occupant in each OPZ based on a vehicle profile. An OAL determines a first parameter based on a target heat flux for the occupant across all of the OPZs, determines a second parameter based on the estimated heat flux of the occupant from the EVAL, and determines respective temperature setpoints for each of the plurality of OPZs to reduce a difference between the first and second parameters. The thermal effectors are controlled based on the temperature setpoints.
A method of controlling occupant thermal comfort includes the steps of driving a temperature in a seating zone to a temperature set point (54), holding the temperature set point in the seating zone for a predetermined time (56), and regulating the temperature in the seating zone to a corrected temperature set point based upon an equivalent homogenous temperature relating to vehicle cabin conditions and occupant gender (58).
A method of controlling an occupant microclimate environment includes determining a heat balance on an occupant in a microclimate environment based upon a thermal model of the heat transfer effects on the occupant, estimating an overall thermal sensation of the occupant based upon the heat balance, referencing a target overall thermal sensation of the occupant, calculating an error between the estimated overall thermal sensation and the target overall thermal sensation, and controlling at least one thermal effector in at least one zone in the microclimate environment to reduce the error in overall thermal sensation while maintaining all effectors within limits of temperature and flow rate that ensure occupant comfort.
An air distribution device that includes an air inlet (44), a first air outlet (46), a second air outlet (48), and a door (52). The door (52) is configured to move relative to the first air outlet (46) and the second air outlet (48) to adjust an airflow provided through the air inlet (44), the first air outlet (46) and the second air outlet (48). The air distribution device may be used in a vehicle seat, a vehicle, or both.
09 - Scientific and electric apparatus and instruments
11 - Environmental control apparatus
Goods & Services
Electronic modules for monitoring and controlling climate control systems used to adjust the temperature of vehicle seats; electronic modules for monitoring and controlling electric thermal conditioners, namely, resistive heaters, thermoelectric heating and cooling devices, and electric motor-driven fluid moving devices and compressors; sensors for use in monitoring and controlling climate control systems in vehicles.. Vehicle climate-control system for heating, ventilation and air-conditioning of vehicle seats comprised in whole or in part of refrigeration systems, heat pump systems and components thereof; thermoelectric heaters and coolers for vehicle seats; electric heaters for commercial use in vehicle seats, namely, electric resistive heaters; thermal conditioning devices, namely, heat exchangers not being parts of machines for heating and cooling of occupant support surfaces..
An air mixer that includes a first air inlet (110), a second air inlet (112), and a door (114). The first air inlet (110) is configured to connect to a source of conditioned air (A1), and the second air inlet (112) is configured to connect to source of ambient air (A2). The door (114) is configured to move relative to the first air inlet (110) and the second air inlet (112) to adjust an amount of air provided into the air mixer from the source of conditioned air and the source of ambient air. The air mixer may be used in a vehicle seat, a vehicle, or both.
An air distribution device that includes a seat plate. The seat plate includes one or more cushion engaging features. The one or more cushion engaging features are configured to engage one or more corresponding plate engaging features provided on a seat cushion of a vehicle seat.
B60N 2/06 - Seats specially adapted for vehiclesArrangement or mounting of seats in vehicles the seat or part thereof being movable, e.g. adjustable the whole seat being movable slidable
A microclimate system for a vehicle occupant includes multiple microclimate thermal effectors. Each of the microclimate thermal effectors at least partially controls a climate in at least one of multiple occupant zones. Each of the microclimate thermal effectors includes a sensor configured to determine microclimate temperature data corresponding to the zone. A controller includes an input configured to receive vehicle temperature data including cabin temperature and outside air temperature from a vehicle data bus. The controller fuses the microclimate temperature data with the vehicle temperature data and determines an estimated local equivalent temperature for each of the microclimate thermal effectors. The controller further provides a temperature command to each of the microclimate thermal effectors based upon the estimated local equivalent temperature corresponding to the microclimate thermal effector.
A method of controlling a microclimate system includes identifying a set of multiple microclimate thermal effectors configured to provide multiple occupant zones and determining a differential temperature between a local temperature at one of the microclimate thermal effectors and a preset temperature for the microclimate thermal effectors. The differential temperature is determined for each of the microclimate thermal effectors. A fuzzy set is generated for each of the microclimate thermal effectors based upon the respective differential temperature. A respective temperature set point for each of the microclimate thermal effectors is defined based upon the fuzzy set for the corresponding microclimate thermal effectors. Each microclimate thermal effector is commanded to the corresponding respective temperature set point.
A blower configured to be positioned in confined spaces and to provide ventilation of a fluid, such as temperature controlled air, is disclosed. In various embodiments, the blower is configured to have a reduced axial thickness, which can be desired in such confined spaces. In some embodiments, the blower has an integral filter, a wire channel for the routing of one or more wires, and/or an exposed backplate. In some embodiments, the blower has a snap-fit circuit board, containment system for mounting the motor, one or more vanes for directing fluid flow, shrouded impeller, and/or integrated connector.
A microclimate system for a vehicle occupant includes a seat that is configured to provide an interface between an occupant and a seating surface, an actuator that is configured to adjust a seat positioning that characterizes the interface, at least one microclimate thermal effector that is in thermal communication with the seat at the interface, and a controller that is in communication with the microclimate thermal effector. The controller is configured to regulate the microclimate thermal effector based upon the interface.
A microclimate system for a vehicle occupant includes multiple microclimate thermal effectors. Each of the microclimate thermal effectors has a corresponding thermal effector controller and is configured to at least partially control an occupant thermal comfort. The microclimate thermal effectors include at least one sensor configured to determine a microclimate parameter corresponding to at least one microclimate thermal effector of the multiple microclimate thermal effectors. A microclimate system controller is in communication with the microclimate thermal effectors and includes a plurality of first transfer functions. Each of the first transfer functions models a corresponding microclimate thermal effector in the plurality of microclimate thermal effectors. A system transfer function models the microclimate system. Each of the first transfer functions is nested within the system transfer function.
A thermal conditioning system for a vehicle seat or other surface includes a thermoelectric Peltier device (TED) with a main side and a waste side. A flap adjusts a proportion of an airflow over the main and waste side airflow paths based on one or more operational parameters of the system. The operational parameters can include a power provided to the TED, the flow rate of the airflow, a thermal efficiency between the TED and the airflow, and/or a setpoint temperature of the airflow.
B60H 1/00 - Heating, cooling or ventilating devices
B60H 1/22 - Heating, cooling or ventilating devices the heat being derived otherwise than from the propulsion plant
F24F 1/02 - Self-contained room units for air-conditioning, i.e. with all apparatus for treatment installed in a common casing
F24F 1/0097 - Indoor units, e.g. fan coil units characterised by heating arrangements using thermoelectric or thermomagnetic means, e.g. Peltier elements
F24F 1/0378 - Self-contained room units for air-conditioning, i.e. with all apparatus for treatment installed in a common casing characterised by heating arrangements using thermoelectric or thermomagnetic means, e.g. Peltier elements
F24F 11/79 - Control systems characterised by their outputsConstructional details thereof for controlling the supply of treated air, e.g. its pressure for controlling the direction of the supplied air
F24F 11/80 - Control systems characterised by their outputsConstructional details thereof for controlling the temperature of the supplied air
F25B 21/02 - Machines, plants or systems, using electric or magnetic effects using Peltier effectMachines, plants or systems, using electric or magnetic effects using Nernst-Ettinghausen effect
74.
MICROCLIMATE SYSTEM FOR A VEHICLE OCCUPANT AND CORRESPONDING METHOD
A microclimate system for a vehicle occupant includes multiple microclimate thermal effectors. Each of the microclimate thermal effectors has a corresponding thermal effector controller and is configured to at least partially control an occupant thermal comfort. Each of the microclimate thermal effectors includes at least one sensor configured to determine a microclimate parameter corresponding to at least one microclimate thermal effector of the multiple microclimate thermal effectors. A microclimate system controller is in communication with a plurality of thermal effector controllers. An optimizer is configured to apply a corresponding weighting value from a plurality of weighting values to each thermal effector controller in the plurality microclimate thermal effectors.
A thermal conditioning system for conditioning a seat surface of a vehicle or other surface. The system includes a thermoelectric Peltier device with a main side and a waste side. A flap adjusts a proportion of an airflow between a main side airflow path and a waste side airflow path based on whether the surface is occupied, the power provided the thermoelectric Peltier device, the flow rates along the airflow paths, the power provided to a blower, and/or other factors.
F24F 5/00 - Air-conditioning systems or apparatus not covered by group or
F25B 21/02 - Machines, plants or systems, using electric or magnetic effects using Peltier effectMachines, plants or systems, using electric or magnetic effects using Nernst-Ettinghausen effect
A heater having a cover and a heating element. The heating element is configured to generate heat that is transferred through the cover via radiative heating and/or conductive heating. The cover has a thermal effusivity in a range of about 20-300 Ws(1-2)/m2K
B60H 1/22 - Heating, cooling or ventilating devices the heat being derived otherwise than from the propulsion plant
H05B 3/14 - Heating elements characterised by the composition or nature of the materials or by the arrangement of the conductor characterised by the composition or nature of the conductive material the material being non-metallic
H05B 3/34 - Heating elements having extended surface area substantially in a two-dimensional plane, e.g. plate-heater flexible, e.g. heating nets or webs
77.
Thermal Control Using Repeated Thermoreceptor Stimulation
A method that includes supplying an amount of power to a thermal system to effect a temperate change of a touch surface; determining a rate of the temperature change of the touch surface; comparing the determined rate of the temperature change to a predetermined rate threshold; and changing the amount of power supplied to the thermal system after the comparing step based on whether the determined rate of temperature change is less than or greater than the predetermined rate threshold.
A distribution system for a vehicle seat The distribution system includes one or more plenums that each have a cap layer, a support layer, and an open space formed between the cap layer and the support layer. The support layer is a generally rigid material and the cap layer is a generally flexible material that is connected to the support layer. The open space includes one or more baffles that assist in directing fluid between a blower connected to the one or more plenums and one or more ventilation holes.
B60N 2/06 - Seats specially adapted for vehiclesArrangement or mounting of seats in vehicles the seat or part thereof being movable, e.g. adjustable the whole seat being movable slidable
A battery cooling system for a battery pack includes an evaporator having an exterior surface arranged in contact with the battery pack, an inlet and an outlet. A condenser has an inlet and an outlet. A pump has an inlet and an outlet. A first conduit connects the outlet of the evaporator to an inlet of the condenser. A second conduit connects the outlet of the condenser to the inlet of the pump. A third conduit connects the outlet of the pump to the inlet of the condenser. A fan is arranged adjacent to the condenser. During operation, a first refrigerant flows through a coolant loop passing through the evaporator, the first conduit, the condenser, the second conduit, the pump and the third conduit. During normal charge and discharge operation, liquid phase cooling is performed and during fast charge and discharge operation, flow boiling is performed.
Various aspects of a rapid effect heat resistant heat and cool assist device is disclosed for providing quick heat and cool comfort to a person, including at least one heat resistant thermal conductor covering a surface area of a heat and cool device for thermal communication to comfort a person, wherein the heat resistant thermal conductor is preferably made of graphene, and has a time to-sensation time period of from 5 seconds to 10 min. and is capable of reaching temperatures from 5° C. to 60° C. for providing heat and cool comfort to a person.
F25B 21/04 - Machines, plants or systems, using electric or magnetic effects using Peltier effectMachines, plants or systems, using electric or magnetic effects using Nernst-Ettinghausen effect reversible
09 - Scientific and electric apparatus and instruments
11 - Environmental control apparatus
Goods & Services
Electronic modules for monitoring and controlling climate control systems used to adjust the temperature of vehicle seats; Electronic modules for monitoring and controlling electric thermal conditioners, namely, resistive heaters, thermoelectric heating and cooling devices, and electric motor-driven fluid moving devices and compressors; Temperature sensors for use in monitoring and controlling climate control systems in vehicles Vehicle climate-control system for heating, ventilation and air conditioning of vehicle seats comprised of refrigerating installations and heat pumps; thermoelectric heaters and coolers for vehicle seats; electric heaters for commercial use in vehicle seats, namely, electric resistive heaters; thermal conditioning devices, namely, heat exchangers not being parts of machines for heating and cooling of occupant support surfaces
82.
Systems and methods for supplying power in a hybrid vehicle using capacitors, a battery and one or more DC/DC converters
A system for discharging or charging a capacitor of a hybrid vehicle according to the present disclosure includes a target state of charge (SOC) module and a capacitor charge/discharge module. The target SOC module determines a target state of charge of the capacitor based on a speed of the vehicle. The capacitor charge/discharge module determines whether a state of charge of a capacitor is greater than a target state of charge. The capacitor charge/discharge module dissipates power from the capacitor to at least one of a battery of the vehicle and an electrical load of the vehicle when the state of charge of the capacitor is greater than the target state of charge.
H01M 10/48 - Accumulators combined with arrangements for measuring, testing or indicating the condition of cells, e.g. the level or density of the electrolyte
H02J 7/14 - Circuit arrangements for charging or depolarising batteries or for supplying loads from batteries for charging batteries from dynamo-electric generators driven at varying speed, e.g. on vehicle
B60L 58/13 - Maintaining the SoC within a determined range
B60K 6/28 - Arrangement or mounting of plural diverse prime-movers for mutual or common propulsion, e.g. hybrid propulsion systems comprising electric motors and internal combustion engines the prime-movers consisting of electric motors and internal combustion engines, e.g. HEVs characterised by apparatus, components or means specially adapted for HEVs characterised by the electric energy storing means, e.g. batteries or capacitors
B60W 50/14 - Means for informing the driver, warning the driver or prompting a driver intervention
B60W 50/00 - Details of control systems for road vehicle drive control not related to the control of a particular sub-unit
B60L 50/15 - Electric propulsion with power supplied within the vehicle using propulsion power supplied by engine-driven generators, e.g. generators driven by combustion engines with additional electric power supply
B60L 53/00 - Methods of charging batteries, specially adapted for electric vehiclesCharging stations or on-board charging equipment thereforExchange of energy storage elements in electric vehicles
H02J 7/34 - Parallel operation in networks using both storage and other DC sources, e.g. providing buffering
B60L 50/40 - Electric propulsion with power supplied within the vehicle using propulsion power supplied by capacitors
B60W 20/13 - Controlling the power contribution of each of the prime movers to meet required power demand in order to stay within battery power input or output limitsControlling the power contribution of each of the prime movers to meet required power demand in order to prevent overcharging or battery depletion
B60L 1/00 - Supplying electric power to auxiliary equipment of electrically-propelled vehicles
B60L 3/00 - Electric devices on electrically-propelled vehicles for safety purposesMonitoring operating variables, e.g. speed, deceleration or energy consumption
B60L 7/16 - Dynamic electric regenerative braking for vehicles comprising converters between the power source and the motor
F02N 11/08 - Circuits specially adapted for starting of engines
B60W 20/00 - Control systems specially adapted for hybrid vehicles
B60R 16/033 - Electric or fluid circuits specially adapted for vehicles and not otherwise provided forArrangement of elements of electric or fluid circuits specially adapted for vehicles and not otherwise provided for electric for supply of electrical power to vehicle subsystems characterised by the use of electrical cells or batteries
A motor control system configured to detect a pinch condition of a structure actuated by a motor includes a pinch detection module configured to receive a current signal indicative of a motor current, determine a rate of change of current based on the current signal, and generate a pinch signal indicative of the pinch condition in response to either one of the motor current being greater than a current threshold and the rate of change of current being greater than a rate of change threshold. The motor control system further includes a position control module configured to control the motor to actuate the structure in response to an input and at least one of stop and reverse the motor in response to the pinch signal.
H02P 3/06 - Arrangements for stopping or slowing electric motors, generators, or dynamo-electric converters for stopping or slowing an individual dynamo-electric motor or dynamo-electric converter
E05F 15/40 - Safety devices, e.g. detection of obstructions or end positions
A motor control system configured to detect a pinch condition of a structure actuated by a motor includes a pinch detection module configured to receive a current signal indicative of a motor current, determine a rate of change of current based on the current signal, and generate a pinch signal indicative of the pinch condition in response to either one of the motor current being greater than a current threshold and the rate of change of current being greater than a rate of change threshold. The motor control system further includes a position control module configured to control the motor to actuate the structure in response to an input and at least one of stop and reverse the motor in response to the pinch signal.
H02H 7/085 - Emergency protective circuit arrangements specially adapted for specific types of electric machines or apparatus or for sectionalised protection of cable or line systems, and effecting automatic switching in the event of an undesired change from normal working conditions for dynamo-electric motors against excessive load
85.
METHOD AND SYSTEM USING MACHINE LEARNING ALGORITHM FOR CONTROLLING THERMAL COMFORT
A method (10) of controlling an occupant microclimate system includes determining vehicle environmental conditions (Block 12), determining occupant personal parameters (Block 16), determining cabin conditions (Block 14), predicting a probability of comfort at a first portion and second portion of an occupant based upon the environmental conditions, cabin conditions, and occupant personal parameters, combining the predicted probabilities of comfort with the vehicle environmental conditions and the occupant personal parameters according to a relationship determined by the one of the machine learned algorithm and the machine learning algorithm, outputting at least one of a binary thermal comfort determination and a probability of overall thermal comfort, and regulating at least one thermal effector based upon the one of the binary thermal comfort determination (Block 20) and the probability of overall thermal comfort (Block 22). The predicting step is performed using one of a machine learned algorithm and a machine learning algorithm.
B60H 1/00 - Heating, cooling or ventilating devices
F24F 11/62 - Control or safety arrangements characterised by the type of control or by internal processing, e.g. using fuzzy logic, adaptive control or estimation of values
86.
SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR DISTRIBUTED THERMOELECTRIC HEATING AND COOLING
A climate control system and method controls climate at selected regions within a passenger compartment of a vehicle. The thermoelectric system includes a plurality of thermoelectric assemblies. The system includes at least one fluid conduit configured to allow a liquid to flow in the at least one fluid conduit. The system further includes a plurality of thermoelectric assemblies. At least two thermoelectric assemblies of the plurality of thermoelectric assemblies are in thermal communication with the liquid and each of the at least two thermoelectric assemblies has a corresponding region within the passenger compartment. The at least two thermoelectric assemblies are selectively operable to transfer heat between the corresponding region and the liquid, wherein the at least two thermoelectric assemblies are each operable independently from one another.
B60H 1/00 - Heating, cooling or ventilating devices
F25B 21/04 - Machines, plants or systems, using electric or magnetic effects using Peltier effectMachines, plants or systems, using electric or magnetic effects using Nernst-Ettinghausen effect reversible
B60H 1/03 - Heating, cooling or ventilating devices the heat being derived from the propulsion plant and from a source other than the propulsion plant
A heating and cooling device is disclosed comprising at least one integral low voltage heating and cooling source and an efficient flexible heat distribution means having a thermal conductivity of from 375 to 4000 W/mK for distributing the heat and cool across a surface. Further aspects include thermal interface compounds to provide full thermal contact as well as the use of a phase change material to provide a long lasting heating and/or cooling effect without the use of external electrical input. Preferred applications include automotive and furniture seating heating and cooling, along with outdoor garments having distributed heating and cooling effects.
F25B 21/00 - Machines, plants or systems, using electric or magnetic effects
A41D 13/005 - Professional, industrial or sporting protective garments, e.g. surgeons' gowns or garments protecting against blows or punches with controlled internal environment with controlled temperature
F25B 21/04 - Machines, plants or systems, using electric or magnetic effects using Peltier effectMachines, plants or systems, using electric or magnetic effects using Nernst-Ettinghausen effect reversible
A47C 7/74 - Adaptations for incorporating lamps, radio sets, bars, telephones, ventilation, heating or cooling arrangements or the like for ventilation, heating or cooling
H10N 10/13 - Thermoelectric devices comprising a junction of dissimilar materials, i.e. devices exhibiting Seebeck or Peltier effects operating with only the Peltier or Seebeck effects characterised by the heat-exchanging means at the junction
H10N 10/10 - Thermoelectric devices comprising a junction of dissimilar materials, i.e. devices exhibiting Seebeck or Peltier effects operating with only the Peltier or Seebeck effects
H10N 10/17 - Thermoelectric devices comprising a junction of dissimilar materials, i.e. devices exhibiting Seebeck or Peltier effects operating with only the Peltier or Seebeck effects characterised by the structure or configuration of the cell or thermocouple forming the device
A system for thermally conditioning and moving a fluid includes a thermoelectric device to convert electrical energy into thermal energy and produce a temperature change in response to an electrical current being applied thereto. The thermoelectric device can include a main-side and a waste side. A fluid moving device can produce a fluid flow that is in thermal communication with the thermoelectric device so that the thermal energy generated by the thermoelectric device is transferred to or from the fluid flow. A flow control valve selectively can direct the fluid flow along a main-side fluid flow path and/or a waste side fluid flow path.
An air distribution system that includes a plenum. The plenum has a top layer having one or more top layer corrugations; a bottom layer having one or more bottom layer corrugations; and an open space formed between the top layer and the bottom layer. The one or more top layer corrugations and the one or more bottom layer corrugations are spaced apart and oppose one another, and when the plenum flexes, the one or more top layer corrugations contact the one or more bottom layer corrugations.
A method for controlling an occupant microclimate system includes determining an occupant personal parameter, determining a vehicle environmental condition, predicting an initial set point value for a plurality of thermal effectors associated with the occupant from a portion of a master dataset based on the occupant personal parameter and the vehicle environmental condition, and regulating the plurality of thermal effectors based upon the initial set point values.
A method of controlling an occupant microclimate system includes determining vehicle environmental conditions, determining occupant personal parameters, predicting a multiple of occupant thermal comfort values based upon at least the environmental conditions, cabin temperature data, and occupant personal parameters. The predicting is performed using a multiple of different machine learning algorithm relationships to provide the multiple of occupant thermal comfort values, evaluating the multiple of occupant thermal comfort values using a voting classifier to provide an estimated occupant thermal comfort, and regulating at least one thermal effector based upon the estimated occupant thermal comfort.
A microclimate control system for a seated occupant includes a seat having a cushion and a back respectively including a first array of pressure sensors and a second array of pressure sensors. The first array of pressure sensors provides a cushion occupant output. The second array of pressure sensors provides a back occupant output. The cushion and back occupant outputs correspond to load distributions from the seated occupant. At least one thermal effector is configured to provide thermal conditioning to the seated occupant. A controller is in communication with the first and second arrays of pressure sensors and with the at least one thermal effector. The controller includes an occupant personal parameters algorithm configured to extract occupant personal parameters based upon the cushion and back occupant outputs. The occupant personal parameters include at least two of an occupant weight, an occupant height, and an occupant gender. The occupant personal parameter algorithm estimates an occupant clothing insulation value from the occupant personal parameters. The controller is configured to regulate the at least one thermal effector based upon the occupant clothing insulation value.
An air distribution system that includes a plenum, which has a bottom wall, a peripheral wall connected to the bottom wall and extending around a periphery of the plenum to define one or more open spaces in the plenum, and one or more connection recesses in the bottom wall adapted to connect to a blower. A top surface of the peripheral wall is configured to contact a bottom surface of a cushion of a vehicle seat to enclose the one or more open spaces.
B60N 2/06 - Seats specially adapted for vehiclesArrangement or mounting of seats in vehicles the seat or part thereof being movable, e.g. adjustable the whole seat being movable slidable
94.
Vehicle microclimate system and method of controlling same
A HVAC thermal conditioning system provides a macroclimate environment. An auxiliary thermal conditioning system has multiple microclimate devices. The microclimate devices are configured to be arranged within an interior space that provides the macroclimate environment to an occupant. The microclimate devices provide a microclimate environment to the occupant different than the macroclimate environment. The microclimate devices are in close proximity to a region of the occupant. A controller calculates an occupant personal comfort based upon a thermal energy experienced by the occupant from thermal radiation sources, thermal convection sources, and thermal conduction sources, and to automatically command the microclimate devices in response to the calculated occupant personal comfort based upon occupant characteristics to achieve a desired occupant personal comfort. The automatic command is to adjust and apportion the thermal conduction sources and/or thermal radiation sources experienced by the occupant to achieve the desired occupant personal comfort.
A HVAC thermal conditioning system provides a macroclimate environment. An auxiliary thermal conditioning system has multiple microclimate devices in close proximity to a region of the occupant. The microclimate devices are arranged within an interior space that provides the macroclimate environment to an occupant. A controller communicates with the microclimate devices and calculates an occupant personal comfort based upon a thermal energy experienced by the occupant from thermal radiation sources, thermal convection sources, and thermal conduction sources, and to automatically command the microclimate devices in response to the calculated occupant personal comfort to achieve a desired occupant personal comfort. The automatic command adjusts and apportions the thermal conduction sources and/or thermal radiation sources to achieve the desired occupant personal comfort. A power management module adjusts the HVAC thermal conditioning system while adjusting and apportioning the thermal conduction sources and/or thermal radiation sources to achieve the desired occupant personal comfort.
A method of controlling an occupant microclimate environment includes determining a heat balance on an occupant in a microclimate environment based upon a thermal model of the heat transfer effects on the occupant, estimating an overall thermal sensation of the occupant based upon the heat balance, referencing a target overall thermal sensation of the occupant, calculating an error between the estimated overall thermal sensation and the target overall thermal sensation, and controlling at least one thermal effector in at least one zone in the microclimate environment to reduce the error in overall thermal sensation while maintaining all effectors within limits of temperature and flow rate that ensure occupant comfort.
An example method of providing thermal conditioning includes providing a HAL having a plurality of input drivers that obtain input data from temperature sensors, and a plurality of output drivers that control a discrete thermal effectors in discrete OPZs in a vehicle cabin. An EVAL obtains input data from the HAL and estimates a heat flux experienced by an occupant in each OPZ based on a vehicle profile. An OAL determines a first parameter based on a target heat flux for the occupant across all of the OPZs, determines a second parameter based on the estimated heat flux of the occupant from the EVAL, and determines respective temperature setpoints for each of the plurality of OPZs to reduce a difference between the first and second parameters. The thermal effectors are controlled based on the temperature setpoints.
A method of providing thermal conditioning for a vehicle occupant according to an example of the present disclosure includes determining a respective target temperature for each of a plurality of discrete OPZs. Each OPZ is associated with a different occupant body area. The determining is based on a difference between a first OTS indicative of a target heat flux for the occupant and a second OTS indicative of an estimated heat flux experienced by the occupant, wherein the respective target temperatures differ between the OPZs. The method includes providing thermal conditioning in each OPZ based on the target temperature for the OPZ, which includes utilizing at least one thermal effector in the OPZ. The method also includes receiving a temperature offset value for a particular one of the OPZs from the occupant, and adjusting the target temperature for the particular one of the OPZs based on the temperature offset value.
An air distribution device that includes a seat plate. The seat plate includes one or more cushion engaging features. The one or more cushion engaging features are configured to engage one or more corresponding plate engaging features provided on a seat cushion of a vehicle seat.
An air mixer that includes a first air inlet (110), a second air inlet (112), and a door (114). The first air inlet (110) is configured to connect to a source of conditioned air (Al), and the second air inlet (112) is configured to connect to source of ambient air (A2). The door (114) is configured to move relative to the first air inlet (110) and the second air inlet (112) to adjust an amount of air provided into the air mixer from the source of conditioned air and the source of ambient air. The air mixer may be used in a vehicle seat, a vehicle, or both.
