USRE38128E1 - Variable temperature seat climate control system - Google Patents

Variable temperature seat climate control system Download PDF

Info

Publication number
USRE38128E1
USRE38128E1 US09/096,226 US9622698A USRE38128E US RE38128 E1 USRE38128 E1 US RE38128E1 US 9622698 A US9622698 A US 9622698A US RE38128 E USRE38128 E US RE38128E
Authority
US
United States
Prior art keywords
temperature
seat
occupant
air
heat pump
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Expired - Lifetime
Application number
US09/096,226
Inventor
David F. Gallup
David R. Noles
Richard R. Willis
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Gentherm Inc
Original Assignee
Amerigon Inc
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Family has litigation
First worldwide family litigation filed litigation Critical https://patents.darts-ip.com/?family=22557883&utm_source=google_patent&utm_medium=platform_link&utm_campaign=public_patent_search&patent=USRE38128(E1) "Global patent litigation dataset” by Darts-ip is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
Application filed by Amerigon Inc filed Critical Amerigon Inc
Priority to US09/096,226 priority Critical patent/USRE38128E1/en
Assigned to BIG STAR INVESTMENTS LLC reassignment BIG STAR INVESTMENTS LLC SECURITY INTEREST (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: AMERIGON INCORPORATED
Assigned to BIG STAR INVESTMENTS LLC reassignment BIG STAR INVESTMENTS LLC RELEASE BY SECURED PARTY (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: AMERIGON INC.
Assigned to BIG STAR INVESTMENTS LLC reassignment BIG STAR INVESTMENTS LLC SECURITY INTEREST (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: AMERIGON INCORPORATED
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of USRE38128E1 publication Critical patent/USRE38128E1/en
Assigned to BANK OF AMERICA, N.A. reassignment BANK OF AMERICA, N.A. SECURITY AGREEMENT Assignors: AMERIGON INCORPORATED, BSST LLC, ZT PLUS, LLC
Assigned to Gentherm Incorporated reassignment Gentherm Incorporated CHANGE OF NAME (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: AMERIGON INCORPORATED
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Expired - Lifetime legal-status Critical Current

Links

Images

Classifications

    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60NSEATS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR VEHICLES; VEHICLE PASSENGER ACCOMMODATION NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • B60N2/00Seats specially adapted for vehicles; Arrangement or mounting of seats in vehicles
    • B60N2/56Heating or ventilating devices
    • B60N2/5607Heating or ventilating devices characterised by convection
    • B60N2/5621Heating or ventilating devices characterised by convection by air
    • B60N2/5642Heating or ventilating devices characterised by convection by air with circulation of air through a layer inside the seat
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47CCHAIRS; SOFAS; BEDS
    • A47C7/00Parts, details, or accessories of chairs or stools
    • A47C7/62Accessories for chairs
    • A47C7/72Adaptations for incorporating lamps, radio sets, bars, telephones, ventilation, heating or cooling arrangements or the like
    • A47C7/74Adaptations for incorporating lamps, radio sets, bars, telephones, ventilation, heating or cooling arrangements or the like for ventilation, heating or cooling
    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60HARRANGEMENTS OF HEATING, COOLING, VENTILATING OR OTHER AIR-TREATING DEVICES SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR PASSENGER OR GOODS SPACES OF VEHICLES
    • B60H1/00Heating, cooling or ventilating [HVAC] devices
    • B60H1/00271HVAC devices specially adapted for particular vehicle parts or components and being connected to the vehicle HVAC unit
    • B60H1/00285HVAC devices specially adapted for particular vehicle parts or components and being connected to the vehicle HVAC unit for vehicle seats
    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60HARRANGEMENTS OF HEATING, COOLING, VENTILATING OR OTHER AIR-TREATING DEVICES SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR PASSENGER OR GOODS SPACES OF VEHICLES
    • B60H1/00Heating, cooling or ventilating [HVAC] devices
    • B60H1/00478Air-conditioning devices using the Peltier effect
    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60NSEATS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR VEHICLES; VEHICLE PASSENGER ACCOMMODATION NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • B60N2/00Seats specially adapted for vehicles; Arrangement or mounting of seats in vehicles
    • B60N2/56Heating or ventilating devices
    • B60N2/5607Heating or ventilating devices characterised by convection
    • B60N2/5621Heating or ventilating devices characterised by convection by air
    • B60N2/5628Heating or ventilating devices characterised by convection by air coming from the vehicle ventilation system, e.g. air-conditioning system
    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60NSEATS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR VEHICLES; VEHICLE PASSENGER ACCOMMODATION NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • B60N2/00Seats specially adapted for vehicles; Arrangement or mounting of seats in vehicles
    • B60N2/56Heating or ventilating devices
    • B60N2/5607Heating or ventilating devices characterised by convection
    • B60N2/5621Heating or ventilating devices characterised by convection by air
    • B60N2/5657Heating or ventilating devices characterised by convection by air blown towards the seat surface
    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60NSEATS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR VEHICLES; VEHICLE PASSENGER ACCOMMODATION NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • B60N2/00Seats specially adapted for vehicles; Arrangement or mounting of seats in vehicles
    • B60N2/56Heating or ventilating devices
    • B60N2/5678Heating or ventilating devices characterised by electrical systems
    • FMECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F25REFRIGERATION OR COOLING; COMBINED HEATING AND REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS; HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS; MANUFACTURE OR STORAGE OF ICE; LIQUEFACTION SOLIDIFICATION OF GASES
    • F25BREFRIGERATION MACHINES, PLANTS OR SYSTEMS; COMBINED HEATING AND REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS; HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS
    • F25B21/00Machines, plants or systems, using electric or magnetic effects
    • F25B21/02Machines, plants or systems, using electric or magnetic effects using Peltier effect; using Nernst-Ettinghausen effect
    • F25B21/04Machines, plants or systems, using electric or magnetic effects using Peltier effect; using Nernst-Ettinghausen effect reversible
    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60HARRANGEMENTS OF HEATING, COOLING, VENTILATING OR OTHER AIR-TREATING DEVICES SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR PASSENGER OR GOODS SPACES OF VEHICLES
    • B60H1/00Heating, cooling or ventilating [HVAC] devices
    • B60H1/00271HVAC devices specially adapted for particular vehicle parts or components and being connected to the vehicle HVAC unit
    • B60H2001/003Component temperature regulation using an air flow

Definitions

  • the present invention relates generally to a variable temperature seat and, more specifically, to a method and apparatus for controlling the flow and temperature of a heating or cooling medium through the seat to an occupant positioned in such seat.
  • Cooling or heating occupants of buildings, homes, automobiles and the like is generally carried out by convection through modifying the temperature of air surrounding the occupants environment.
  • the effectiveness of convection heating or cooling is largely dependent on the ability of the temperature conditioned air to contact and surround all portions of the occupants's body.
  • Heating and cooling occupants through convention is generally thought to be efficient in such applications as homes, offices, and other like structures where the occupants are not stationary or fixed in one position but, rather are moving around allowing maximum contact with the temperature treated air.
  • the occupants are typically fixed in one position with a large portion of their body's surface against the surface of a seat, isolated from effects of the temperature conditioned air.
  • the use of distributing temperature conditioned air into the cabin of the vehicle to heat or cool the occupant is less effective due to the somewhat limited surface area of contact with the occupant's body.
  • the surface of the seat is at a temperature close to the ambient temperature upon initial contact by the occupant, increasing the need to provide rapid temperature compensation to the occupant in an effective manner.
  • seats have been constructed to accommodate the internal flow of a heating or cooling medium and to distribute the same through the seating surface to the surface of the occupant in contact with the seat.
  • a preferred heating and cooling medium is air.
  • a seat constructed in this manner increases the efficiency of heating or cooling a passenger by convection by distributing temperature conditioned air directly to the surface the occupant generally isolated from contact with temperature conditioned air that is distributed throughout the cabin of the vehicle.
  • U.S. Pat. No. 4,923,248 issued to Feher discloses a seat pad and backrest comprising an internal plenum for distributing temperature conditioned air from a Peltier thermoelectric module through the surface of the seat pad and to an adjacent surface of an occupant.
  • the temperature conditioned air is provided by using a fan to blow ambient air over the fins of a Peltier module.
  • the heating or cooling of the occupant is achieved by changing the polarity of the electricity that powers the Peltier module.
  • U.S. Pat. No. 5,002,336 issued to Feher discloses a joined seat and backrest construction comprising an internal plenum for receiving and distributing temperature conditioned air through the seat and to an adjacent surface of an occupant.
  • the temperature conditioned air is provided by a Peltier thermoelectric module and distributed through the internal plenum by an electric fan.
  • U.S. Pat. No. 5,117,638 issued to Feher discloses a selectively cooled or heated seat construction and apparatus for providing temperature conditioned air.
  • the seat construction comprising, an internal plenum, a plastic mash layer, a metal mesh layer, and perforated outer layer.
  • the apparatus for providing the temperature conditioned air is heat exchanger comprising a Peltier thermoelectric module and a fan. Heating or cooling the occupant is achieved by switching the polarity of the electricity powering the Peltier module.
  • the seat constructions known in the art although addressing the need to provide a more efficient method of heating or cooling the occupant, has not addressed the need to provide temperature conditioned air to an occupant in a manner that both maximizes occupant comfort and maximizes power efficiency.
  • the electrically powered ancillary components of the electric vehicle function at maximum electrical efficiency.
  • the seats known in the art that provide temperature conditioned air to an occupant do not operate in an electrically efficient manner.
  • the temperature of the air being conditioned by the Peltier thermoelectric devices in such seats is adjusted by dissipating the excess power through a resister, i.e., by using a potentiometer.
  • the practice of dissipating excess power instead of providing only that amount of power necessary to operate the Peltier thermoelectric devices makes such seats unsuited for such power sensitive applications as the electric vehicle as well as other applications where electrical efficiency is a concern.
  • the seats known in the art constructed to provided temperature conditioned air to an occupant are adjustable in that the occupant may either choose to produce heated air or cooled air.
  • the seats known in the art are unable to automatically regulate the temperature or flow rate of the cool or heated air distributed to the occupant in the event that the thermoelectric device malfunctions or in the event that the user falls asleep.
  • An electrical malfunctioning of the thermoelectric device could result in the abnormal heating of the device, causing damage to the thermoelectric device itself.
  • An electrical malfunction could result in the distribution of hot air to the occupant, causing discomfort or even injury.
  • an initial temperature setting of maximum heat or maximum cold that is left untouched in the event the occupant falls asleep may cause damage to the thermoelectric device itself or may cause discomfort or even injury to the occupant.
  • the seats known in the art while able to vary the distribution of air to the seat bottom or seat back via occupant adjustment, do not allow the occupant to vary the temperature of the air passing through the seat back or seat bottom, independently.
  • the option of being able to selectively heat one portion of the seat and cool the other may be desirable where the occupant requires such selective treatment due to a particular medical condition or injury. For example, one a cold day it would be desirable to distribute heated air to the seat back for occupant comfort and cooled air to the seat bottom to assist in healing a leg injury that has recently occurred.
  • a variable temperature seat comprise a control system and method for regulating the temperature and flow rate of temperature conditioned air to an occupant sitting in the seat. It is desirable that the control system operate the seat in an electrically efficient manner, making it ideal for use in power sensitive applications such as the electric powered vehicle. It is desirable that the control system operate the seat in a manner eliminating the possibility of equipment damage, occupant discomfort or injury. It is also desirable that the control system permit the independent distribution of heated or cooled air to the seat back or seat bottom.
  • the temperature climate control system for use with a variable temperature seat.
  • the temperature climate control system comprises a variable temperature seat suitable for distributing temperature conditioned air to a seated occupant, at least one heat pump for temperature conditioning ambient air and passing the air to the seat, a temperature sensor located at each heat pump, and a controller configured to monitor the temperature of the heat pumps and regulate their operation according to a temperature climate control algorithm.
  • Each heat pump comprises a number of Peltier thermoelectric modules for selectively heating or cooling ambient air in a main heat exchanger. The heated or cooled air is passed to the seat by a main exchanger fan.
  • Each heat pump also comprises a waste heat exchanger for removing unwanted heat or cooling from the Peltier modules. The unwanted heat or cooling is passed to the outside environment by a waste exchanger fan.
  • Each main fan may be manually adjusted to operate at a variety of predetermined speeds via a fan switch.
  • Each Peltier module can be manually adjusted to operate in various heating or cooling modes via a temperature switch.
  • the electrical power to each Peltier is pulsed at a duty cycle corresponding to a particular heating or cooling mode of operation to optimize electrical efficiency.
  • Each heat pump may be operated independently via separate fan and temperature switches, or may be operated simultaneously by a common fan and temperature switch. Alternatively, each heat pump may be operated automatically by the controller when the variable temperature seat is occupied by the activation of an occupant presence switch.
  • the controller monitors the temperature information relayed from each heat pump.
  • the controller may also be configured to monitor the ambient temperature of the air surrounding the variable temperature seat occupant as well as the temperature of the conditioned air directed to the variable temperature seat occupant, via the use of additional temperature sensors.
  • the controller regulates the operation of each main exchanger fan, each waste exchanger fan, and each Peltier module according to a temperature climate control algorithm.
  • the control algorithm is designed to maximize occupant comfort and minimize the possibility of equipment damage, occupant discomfort or even occupant injury in the event of a system malfunction.
  • the control algorithm is designed to interrupt or limit the power to the Peltier modules and/or each main exchanger fan in the event that the heat pump temperature exceeds a predetermined maximum temperature or a predetermined minimum temperature, indicating a possible heat pump malfunction. Additionally, the control algorithm is designed to interrupt power to the Peltier modules in the event that the temperature of the conditioned air directed to the variable temperature seat occupant exceeds a predetermined maximum or minimum temperature.
  • the control algorithm is also designed to limit the power to the Peltier modules during the cooling mode of operation when the temperature of the cooling air directed to the occupant exceeds a predetermined minimum cooling temperature and the temperature has not been adjusted for a predetermined period of time, thus minimizing possible occupant discomfort associated with overcooling the occupant's back.
  • the control algorithm is designed to limit the power to the Peltier modules during the cooling mode of operation when the temperature difference between the ambient air surrounding the variable temperature seat occupant and the conditioned air directed to the occupant is greater than a predetermined amount.
  • FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional semi-schematic view of an embodiment of a variable temperature seat
  • FIG. 2 is a schematic view of a first embodiment of the temperature climate control system according to the present invention.
  • FIG. 3 is a flow chart illustrating a temperature climate control algorithm for the embodiment of the invention shown in FIG. 2;
  • FIG. 4 is a schematic view of a second embodiment of the temperature climate control system according to the present invention.
  • FIG. 5 is a flow chart illustrating a temperature climate control algorithm for the embodiment of the invention shown in FIG. 4;
  • FIG. 6 is a schematic view of a third embodiment of the temperature control climate control system according to the present invention.
  • FIG. 7 is a flow chart illustrating a temperature climate control algorithm for the embodiment of the invention shown in FIG. 6;
  • FIG. 8 is a schematic view of an alternative embodiment of the temperature climate control system according to the present invention.
  • a temperature climate control system provided in the practice of this invention may be used to control the temperature of air being distributed through a variable temperature seat (VTS) and directed to a seated occupant.
  • VTS variable temperature seat
  • the TCCS may be used in various VTS applications where it is required that an occupant stay seated for a period of time, such as automobiles, trains, planes, buses, dentists chairs, hair styling chairs and the like, or where an occupant simply desires an added degree of comfort while he/she is sitting at work or in the home, such as office chairs, home recliners and the like.
  • the TCCS configured according to the practice of this invention to operate in a manner providing an occupant seated in a VTS a maximum degree of comfort by allowing the occupant to manually adjust both the flow rate and the temperature of the air being passed through the seat surface and directed to the occupant.
  • the TCCS is configured to automatically override the manual flow rate and temperature settings when it senses that the temperature of the air being directed to the occupant is above a predetermined maximum temperature set point or is below a predetermined minimum temperature set point.
  • the TCCS also comprises timers and is configured to automatically override the manual flow rate and temperature settings during normal operation to prevent back discomfort.
  • the device generating the temperature conditioned air is operated in a manner maximizing electrical efficiency, making it well suited for use in applications that are sensitive to electrical consumption, such as electric powered vehicles.
  • FIG. 1 shows an embodiment of a VTS 10 comprising a seat back 12 and a seat bottom 14 for accommodating the support of a human occupant in the sitting position.
  • FIG. 1 shows a simplified cross-sectional view of a VTS for purposes of illustration and clarity. Accordingly, it is to be understood that the VTS may be constructed in embodiments other than that specifically represented.
  • the VTS may be constructed having a outside surface covering 16 made from a suitable material that allows the flow of air through its surface, such as perforated vinyl, cloth, leather or the like.
  • a padding layer 17 such as reticulated foam may lie beneath the outside surface 16 to increase occupant comfort.
  • the VTS may be constructed having a metal frame (not shown) that generally defines the seat configuration and having seat bottom and seat back cushions 18 made from foam and the like.
  • a number of air channels 20 are positioned within each seat cushion and extend from the padding layer 17 through the seat cushions and to either a seat bottom air inlet 22 or a seat back air inlet 24 .
  • FIG. 2 shows a first embodiment of the TCCS according to the present invention comprising a VTS 10 .
  • the air that is passed through the seat and to the occupant is temperature conditioned by a heat pump.
  • This first embodiment comprises a seat back heat pump 26 for temperature conditioning the air passed through the seat back 12 of the VTS, and a seat bottom heat pump 28 for temperature conditioning the air passed through the seat bottom 14 of the VTS.
  • the seat back heat pump and seat bottom heat pump each comprise at least one thermoelectric device 30 and 32 , respectively, for temperature conditioning, i.e., selectively heating or cooling, the air.
  • a preferred thermoelectric device is a Peltier thermoelectric module.
  • Each heat pump may comprise more than one Peltier thermoelectric module.
  • a preferred heat pump comprises approximately three Peltier thermoelectric modules.
  • Each heat pump comprises a main heat exchanger 34 and 36 , enclosing air temperature conditioning fins (not shown) depending from one surface of the Peltier modules, and a waste heat exchanger 39 and 40 , enclosing thermal exchanger fins (not shown) extending from the Peltier module surface opposite the main heat exchanger.
  • Attached to one end of each main heat exchanger is an outlet from a main exchanger fan 42 and 44 that serves to pass the temperature conditioned air in each main heat exchanger to the seat back or seat bottom, respectively.
  • Each main exchanger fan may comprise an electrical fan having a suitable flow rate, such as an axial blower and the like.
  • each main heat exchanger The outlet end of each main heat exchanger is connected to an air conduit 46 and 48 that is connected to the respective seat back air inlet 24 or seat bottom air inlet 22 . Accordingly, the temperature conditioned air produced by the Peltier thermoelectric modules in each main heat exchanger is passed through the respective air conduit, through the respective air inlet, into and through the respective seat portion of the VTS to the occupant by the main exchanger fan.
  • each waste exchanger fan 50 and 52 Attached to one end of each waste heat exchanger is an outlet from a waste exchanger fan 50 and 52 that serves to pass unwanted waste heat or cooling produced in each waste heat exchanger to the outside environment surrounding the VTS.
  • Each waste exchanger fan may comprise an electrical fan having a suitable air flow rate, such as an axial blower and the like.
  • the waste air exiting each waste heat exchanger fan is usually at an undesirable temperature, i.e., in the cooling mode it is hot air and in the heating mode it is cold air. Consequently, waste air exiting each waste exchanger may be specifically routed away from any occupant, possibly through the sides of the seat or the like.
  • Each temperature sensor may comprise an electric thermocouple and the like.
  • the operation of the main exchanger fans 42 and 44 can be manually controlled by a fan switch 58 .
  • the main exchanger fans are operated simultaneously by a single fan switch.
  • the fan switch may comprise an electrical switch configured to provide an off position, and a variety of fan speed settings if desired. It is preferred that the fan switch be configured having an off position and three different fan speed settings, namely low, medium and high.
  • the fan switch may be located within or near the VTS for easy occupant access.
  • the operation of the waste exchanger fans 50 and 52 can be manually controlled by a separate fan switch (not shown) if desired. However, it is preferred that the waste exchanger fans be activated automatically upon the operation of the main exchanger fans and operate at a single predetermined speed. Accordingly, upon the manual operation of the fan switch 58 , both the main exchanger fans are activated to a selected speed and the waste exchanger fans are automatically activated to operate at maximum speed. Configuring the TCCS to operate in this manner maximizes the thermal efficiency of the Peltier modules and reduces the possibility of system damage.
  • the operation of the Pelter thermoelectric modules can be controlled by a temperature switch 60 .
  • the temperature switch may comprise an electrical switch configured to provide an off position, and a variety of temperature settings if desired.
  • a preferred fan switch is configured having an off position, four heating positions, and four cooling positions.
  • the temperature switch 60 may be located within or near the VTS for easy occupant access.
  • a LED lamp 62 located near the temperature switch registers a green color, indicating that the Peltier modules are operating in the cooling mode.
  • the LED lamp registers a red color, indicating the Peltier modules are operating in the heating mode.
  • the different heating or cooling modes for the Peltier modules is accomplished by both switching the polarity and limiting the amount of the electrical power routed to the Peltier modules.
  • the four different modes of heating and cooling operation are achieved by pulsing electrical power to the Peltier modules at predetermined duty cycles.
  • the different levels of heating or cooling are accomplished by pulsing the electrical power to the Peltier modules at a predetermined duty cycle.
  • the duty cycle is about 0.02 seconds (50 hz) and the four different levels are accomplished by applying either 25 percent, 50 percent, 75 percent, or 100 percent of the cycle time power.
  • a 25 percent duty cycle would be on for approximately 0.005 seconds and off for approximately 0.015 seconds for a total cycle length of 0.02 seconds, and then repeated.
  • the 75 percent duty cycle is on for approximately 0.015 seconds and off for approximately 0.005 seconds.
  • the heating or cooling mode of the Peltier modules is achieved by switching the polarity of the electrical power.
  • the Peltier modules are configured to operate in the heating mode on approximately ten volts DC and in the cooling mode on approximately six volts DC.
  • a DC converter may be positioned outside the controls to supply the heating and cooling voltage.
  • the total duty cycle of the Peltier modules is adjustable from 0.02 to 0.2 seconds. The power for the Peltier modules in each mode was chosen to optimize the efficiency and total thermal power supplied to an occupant of the VTS.
  • the electrical feeds ad signals may first be routed to a printed circuit board in the seat (not shown) that sends a signal to the controller.
  • the controller comprises a power inlet 66 of sufficient electrical capacity to operate all of the aforementioned devices.
  • the controller is configured to receive occupant inputs from the fan switch and the temperature switch and temperature information from the temperature sensors. From this input the controller is configured to make adjustments to the operation of the heat pumps according to a predetermined algorithm designed to ensure occupant comfort and safety, and protect against system damage.
  • FIG. 3 is a flow chart illustrating a temperature climate control algorithm for the first embodiment of the TCCS shown in FIG. 2 .
  • the occupant wishing to use the VTS operates the main exchanger fans by activating the fan switch 58 and selecting a desired fan speed (step 68 ).
  • the waste exchanger fans are also activated to operate at a maximum speed (step 70 ).
  • the occupant may activate the Peltier modules for temperature conditioning the air in the VTS by positioning the temperatures witch 60 to a desired heating or cooling mode (steps 72 and 74 ).
  • the Peltier modules can be manually deactivated by selecting the “off” position on the temperature control switch, in which case the power to the fans is maintained as indicated by the LED 62 registering a green color (step 76 ). Additionally, the Peltier modules are automatically deactivated by the controller when the fan switch is manually placed in the “off” position (step 78 ).
  • the LED lamp 62 registers a green color (step 80 ).
  • the temperature detected by the temperature sensors 54 and 56 in both heat pumps 26 and 28 is passed to the controller (step 82 ). If the temperature is below about 303° K. (step 84 ) the power to the Peltier modules remains on (step 86 ), unless more than six minutes has elapsed since the time that the occupant has last adjusted the temperature (step 88 ), in which case the power to the Peltier modules is reduced to 25 percent (step 90 ). It is desirable to reduce the power to the Peltier modules under such circumstances to prevent over cooling of the occupant's back, which has been shown to cause the occupant discomfort after use of the VTS. If the temperature is not below 303° K., however, the power to the Peltier modules is maintained as indicated by the occupant controls (step 86 ).
  • the LED lamp 62 registers a red color (step 92 ). If the temperature is below about 339° K. (step 94 ) the power to the Peltier modules remains on (step 96 ). If the temperature is in the range of from 339° K. to 349° K. (step 92 ) the power to the Peltier modules is reduced to 25 percent until the temperature is below 339° K. (step 98 ). Reducing the power to the Peltier modules in this situation is desired to prevent the Peltier modules from overheating.
  • step 100 If the temperature of the main heat exchanger side of the Peltier modules is below either below 200° K. or above 349° K. (step 100 ), regardless of whether the Peltier modules are in the heating or cooling mode, the controller deactivates the Peltier modules (step 76 ) and maintains the operation of the main exchanger fans and waste exchanger fans. The occurrence of either of the above temperature conditions indicates a system malfunction. In this condition the LED lamp 62 registers a orange color, indicating a system malfunction.
  • the first embodiment comprises conditioned air temperature sensors 102 and 104 positioned in the air flow of the temperature conditioned air passing to the seat, back and seat bottom, respectively, as shown in FIG. 2 .
  • the conditioned air temperature sensors are electrically connected to the controller 64 .
  • the temperature climate control algorithm described above and illustrated in FIG. 3 is configured to deactivate the Peltier modules in the event that the temperature of the conditioned air is greater than about 325° K. or below about 297° K. While the Peltier modules are deactivated the main exchanger fans continue to run.
  • FIG. 4 shows a second embodiment of the TCCS according to the practice of the present invention.
  • the second embodiment is similar to the first embodiment in all respects, except for the addition of at least one ambient air temperature sensor 102 to monitor the temperature of the air outside of the VTS surrounding the occupant.
  • the temperature sensor is electrically connected to relay ambient air temperature information to the controller 64 . More than one ambient air temperature sensor may be used, each being positioned at different locations in the environment surrounding the occupant, to provide an ambient air temperature profile to the controller.
  • the second embodiment of the TCCS also differs from the first preferred embodiment in that the fan speed and air temperature for the seat back heat pump 26 and the seat bottom heat pump 28 can each be manually adjusted independently by using a separate seat back fan switch 104 and seat bottom fan switch 106 , and a separate seat back temperature switch 108 and seat bottom temperature switch 110 .
  • the fan switches 104 and 106 and the temperature switches 108 and 110 in the second embodiment are the same as those previously described in the first embodiment.
  • the TCCS may be configured having a single fan switch (not shown) to control the speed of fans 42 and 44 and two temperature switches (not shown) to control the power to each heap pump 26 and 28 independently.
  • the TCCS may also be configured having a single temperature switch (not shown) to control the power of heat pumps 26 and 28 simultaneously and two fan switches to control the speed of each fan 42 and 44 independently.
  • LED lamps 112 and 114 are located near each temperature switch to indicate the mode of operation selected for each heat pump, e.g., in the off position the LED lamps are off, when both heat pumps are in the cooling mode the LED lamps register a green color, when both heat pumps are in the heating mode the LED lamps register a red color, when there is a temperature error or Peltier module malfunction in either heat pump the LED lamps fast cycle red and green, registering an orange color.
  • Configuring the manual fan speed and temperature switches in this manner allows the occupant the ability to operate the seat back 12 of the VTS at a different conditions than the seat bottom 14 . This may be desirable where a medical condition or injury requires that a particular portion of the occupant's body be maintained at a temperature different from the remaining portion of the occupant, e.g., where a leg injury requires cooling air in the seat bottom of the VTS and the ambient temperature dictates that heated air pass through the seat back for maximum occupant comfort.
  • the electrical feeds to and/or outlets from the fan switches 104 and 106 , temperature switches 108 and 110 , main exchanger fans 42 and 44 , waste exchanger fans 50 and 52 , Peltier thermoelectric modules 30 and 32 , temperature sensors 54 and 56 , LED lamps 112 and 114 , and the ambient air temperature sensor 102 are routed to the controller 64 .
  • FIG. 5 is a flow chart illustrating a temperature climate control algorithm for the second embodiment of the TCCS shown in FIG. 4 .
  • the control algorithm is similar to that previously described above and shown in FIG. 3, except for the additional temperature inputs from the ambient temperature sensor (step 116 ) and the conditioned air sensor, and except when the Peltier modules are being operated in the cooling mode and the temperature of the conditioned air from the seat back heat pump 26 is below about 310° K. (step 119 ).
  • the conditioned air temperature is below about 310° K., if it has been greater than six minutes since the last temperature adjustment by the occupant (step 120 ), and the conditioned air temperature of the conditioned is approximately 3° K.
  • the controller reduces the power to the Peltier modules in the seat back heat pump 26 to approximately 25 percent (step 124 ). If the temperature is below about 310° K., but it has either been less than six minutes since the last manual temperature adjustment or the conditioned air temperature is less than 3° K. below the ambient temperature, the power to the Peltier modules in the seat back heat pump remains on at the occupant controlled setting (step 126 ).
  • the reason for reducing the power to the Peltier modules under such conditions is to regulate the amount of cooling air directed to an occupant's back to prevent possible discomfort after using the VTS.
  • the second embodiment also comprises conditioned air temperature sensors 128 and 130 positioned in the air flow of the temperature conditioned air passing to the seat, back and bottom, respectively, as shown in FIG. 4 .
  • the conditioned air temperature sensors are electrically connected to the controller 64 .
  • the temperature climate control algorithm described above and illustrated in FIG. 5 is configured to deactivate the Peltier modules in the event that the temperature of the conditioned air directed to the occupant is greater than about 325° K. or below about 297° K. While the Peltier modules are deactivated the main exchanger fans continue to run.
  • FIG. 6 shows a third embodiment of the TCCS according to the practice of this invention.
  • the third embodiment is similar to the first embodiment in all respects except for two.
  • One is the addition of at least one ambient air temperature sensor 132 to monitor the temperature of the air outside of the VTS surrounding the occupant.
  • the temperature sensor is electrically connected to feed temperature information to the controller 64 .
  • More than one ambient air temperature sensor may be used, each being positioned at different locations in the environment surrounding the occupant, to provide an ambient air temperature profile to the controller.
  • the second difference in the third embodiment of the TCCS is that only a single heat pump 134 is used to provide temperature conditioned air to both the seat back 12 and the seat bottom 14 .
  • the single heat pump is similar to the seat back heat pump 26 and seat bottom heat pump 28 previously described in the first embodiment in that it comprises a main heat exchanger 136 , a main exchanger fan 138 , a waste heat exchanger 140 , a waste exchanger fan 142 and a Peltier module temperature sensor 143 .
  • the single heat pump 134 instead of three Peltier thermoelectric modules, the single heat pump 134 comprises four Peltier thermoelectric modules 144 .
  • the temperature conditioned air from the main heat exchanger is passed to the seat back 12 and seat bottom 14 of the VTS by an air manifold 146 connected at one end to the outlet of the main heat exchanger 136 and at the other end to the seat back air inlet 24 and seat bottom air inlet 22 .
  • the third embodiment of the TCCS may comprise a double heat pump arrangement similar to that previously described in the first embodiment.
  • the third embodiment of the TCCS also differs from the first embodiment in that the main exchanger fan speed and the heat pump air temperature are not manually adjustable by the occupant. Rather, the fan speed and the air temperature are controlled automatically by the controller 64 .
  • an occupant presence switch 148 is located within the VTS that is activated upon the presence of an occupant in the seat.
  • the occupant presence switch may comprise a weight sensitive switch and the like located in the seat back or seat bottom.
  • the occupant presence switch is located in the seat bottom and is electrically connected to the controller to relay the presence of an occupant.
  • the use of a occupant presence switch to control the activation of the VTS is desired for purposes of conserving electricity when the VTS is not occupied and when it is not practical or desirable to give individual control over the seats, e.g., in bus passenger seating applications.
  • FIG. 7 is a flow chart illustrating a temperature climate control algorithm for the third embodiment of the TCCS as shown in FIG. 6 .
  • the activation of the main exchanger fan 138 is controlled by an occupant sitting in the VTS (step 150 ), which activates the occupant presence switch, and the ambient conditions inside the vehicle as transmitted to the controller by the ambient temperature sensors (step 148 ).
  • the controller pulses electrical power to the Peltier modules in the absence of an occupant at a steady state of voltage in the range of from 0.5 to 1 volt (step 152 ).
  • the voltage that is actually applied during the duty cycle may be six or twelve volts.
  • the particular main fan speed and Peltier operating mode selected by the controller is dependent upon the ambient temperature surrounding the VTS occupant.
  • the controller selects a heating mode of operation and passes 100 percent power to the Peltier modules and operates the main exchanger fan at medium speed (step 156 ).
  • the waste exchanger fan is also activated at high speed.
  • step 158 the controller selects a heating mode of operation and passes 75 percent power to the Peltier modules and operates the main exchanger fan at medium speed (step 160 ).
  • step 162 the controller selects a heating mode of operation and passes 25 percent power to the Peltier modules and operates the main exchanger fan at a medium speed (step 164 ).
  • the controller pulses power to the Peltier modules at a steady state of approximately 0.5 volts and deactivates the main exchanger fan (step 168 ).
  • step 170 the controller selects a cooling mode of operation and passes 50 percent power to the Peltier modules and operates the main exchanger fan at medium speed (step 172 ).
  • step 172 the controller selects a cooling mode of operation and passes 50 percent power to the Peltier modules and operates the main exchanger fan at high speed (step 176 ).
  • step 178 the controller selects a cooling mode of operation and passes 100 percent power to the Peltier modules and operates the main exchanger fan at high sped (step 180 ).
  • a Peltier modules temperature (step 182 ) below 200° K. or above 394° K. (step 184 ) causes the controller to deactivate the Peltier modules and maintain the operation of the main exchanger fan and waste exchanger fan (Step 186 ). Either of the above conditions indicate a system malfunction.
  • the third embodiment also includes a conditioned air temperature sensor 188 positioned in the air flow of the temperature conditioned air passing to the seat, as shown in FIG. 6 .
  • the conditioned air temperature sensor is electrically connected to the controller 64 .
  • the temperature climate control algorithm described above and illustrated in FIG. 7 is configured to deactivate the Peltier modules 144 in the event that the temperature of the conditioned air passing to the seat and to the occupant is greater than about 325° K. or below about 297° K. While the Peltier modules are deactivated the main exchanger fans continue to run.
  • the third embodiment of the TCCS as specifically described above and illustrated in FIG. 6 is used for controlling multiple VTSs in multi-occupant applications such as buses, trains, planes and the like.
  • the main exchanger fan, waste exchanger fan, Peltier modules, temperature sensor, and weight sensitive switch from each VTS are electrically connected to a common controller.
  • Multiple ambient air temperature sensors may be placed at different locations within the vehicle to provide an accurate temperature profile throughout the interior of the vehicle.
  • the common controller is configured to accommodate inputs from the multiple ambient air temperature sensors.
  • the common controller may be configured to control the main fan speed and mode of operation for the Peltier modules in the same manner as that specifically described above and illustrated in FIG. 7, taking into account the possibility of different ambient temperature zones within the vehicle surrounding each VTS.
  • a temperature climate control system may comprise means for automatically adjusting the flow of temperature conditioned air from a single heat pump to the seat back or the seat bottom.
  • FIG. 8 illustrates an alternative embodiment of the third embodiment of the TCCS, incorporating the use of valves 190 and 192 placed in the air manifold 146 leading to the seat back and the seat bottom, respectively.
  • the valves are activated electrically by a controller 64 according to a predetermined control algorithm.
  • the control algorithm may be the same as that specifically described above and illustrated in FIG. 7 for the third embodiment, with the addition that controller limits the flow of cooling air to the seat back by closing valve 190 in the event that the occupant receives too much cooling air over a period of time. This embodiment would help eliminate the occurrence of occupant discomfort after using the VTS.
  • the TCCS may incorporate input from an energy management system, such as that used in electric powered vehicles.
  • the TCCS is configured to accept an inhibit signal from such an energy management system.
  • the inhibit signal is typically activated by a vehicle's energy management system under particular conditions of operation when an additional amount of energy is required or when the battery is being discharged to rapidly, such as during hard acceleration, when climbing a hill, or when the battery is weak or is approaching its minimum discharge voltage.
  • the temperature climate control algorithm according to the present invention can be configured to deactivate the Peltier modules, the main exchanger fans, and the waste exchanger fans upon activation of the inhibit signal.

Abstract

A temperature climate control system comprises a variable temperature seat, at least one heat pump, at least one heat pump temperature sensor, and a controller. Each heat pump comprises a number of Peltier thermoelectric modules for temperature conditioning the air in a main heat exchanger and a main exchanger fan for passing the conditioned air from the main exchanger to the variable temperature seat. The Peltier modules and each main fan may be manually adjusted via a temperature switch and a fan switch, respectively. Additionally, the temperature climate control system may comprise a number of additional temperature sensors to monitor the temperature of the ambient air surrounding the occupant as well as the temperature of the conditioned air directed to the occupant. The controller is configured to automatically regulate the operation of the Peltier modules and/or each main fan according to a temperature climate control algorithm designed both to maximize occupant comfort during normal operation, and minimize possible equipment damage, occupant discomfort, or occupant injury in the event of a heat pump malfunction.

Description

Application Ser. No. 09/621,258 was filed Jul. 20, 2000 as a continuation of the present case, and is now abandoned.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates generally to a variable temperature seat and, more specifically, to a method and apparatus for controlling the flow and temperature of a heating or cooling medium through the seat to an occupant positioned in such seat.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Cooling or heating occupants of buildings, homes, automobiles and the like is generally carried out by convection through modifying the temperature of air surrounding the occupants environment. The effectiveness of convection heating or cooling is largely dependent on the ability of the temperature conditioned air to contact and surround all portions of the occupants's body. Heating and cooling occupants through convention is generally thought to be efficient in such applications as homes, offices, and other like structures where the occupants are not stationary or fixed in one position but, rather are moving around allowing maximum contact with the temperature treated air.
In other applications such as automobiles, planes, buses and the like, the occupants are typically fixed in one position with a large portion of their body's surface against the surface of a seat, isolated from effects of the temperature conditioned air. In such applications the use of distributing temperature conditioned air into the cabin of the vehicle to heat or cool the occupant is less effective due to the somewhat limited surface area of contact with the occupant's body. In addition, oftentimes the surface of the seat is at a temperature close to the ambient temperature upon initial contact by the occupant, increasing the need to provide rapid temperature compensation to the occupant in an effective manner.
To address the problem of providing effective occupant heating or cooling in such applications, seats have been constructed to accommodate the internal flow of a heating or cooling medium and to distribute the same through the seating surface to the surface of the occupant in contact with the seat. A preferred heating and cooling medium is air. A seat constructed in this manner increases the efficiency of heating or cooling a passenger by convection by distributing temperature conditioned air directly to the surface the occupant generally isolated from contact with temperature conditioned air that is distributed throughout the cabin of the vehicle.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,923,248 issued to Feher discloses a seat pad and backrest comprising an internal plenum for distributing temperature conditioned air from a Peltier thermoelectric module through the surface of the seat pad and to an adjacent surface of an occupant. The temperature conditioned air is provided by using a fan to blow ambient air over the fins of a Peltier module. The heating or cooling of the occupant is achieved by changing the polarity of the electricity that powers the Peltier module.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,002,336 issued to Feher discloses a joined seat and backrest construction comprising an internal plenum for receiving and distributing temperature conditioned air through the seat and to an adjacent surface of an occupant. Like U.S. Pat. No. 4,923,248, the temperature conditioned air is provided by a Peltier thermoelectric module and distributed through the internal plenum by an electric fan.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,117,638 issued to Feher discloses a selectively cooled or heated seat construction and apparatus for providing temperature conditioned air. The seat construction comprising, an internal plenum, a plastic mash layer, a metal mesh layer, and perforated outer layer. The apparatus for providing the temperature conditioned air is heat exchanger comprising a Peltier thermoelectric module and a fan. Heating or cooling the occupant is achieved by switching the polarity of the electricity powering the Peltier module.
The seat constructions known in the art, although addressing the need to provide a more efficient method of heating or cooling the occupant, has not addressed the need to provide temperature conditioned air to an occupant in a manner that both maximizes occupant comfort and maximizes power efficiency.
The ever increasing awareness of our environment and the need to conserve resources has driven the need to replace hydrocarbon powered vehicles, such as the automobile, with vehicles that are powered by an environmentally friendly power sources such as electricity. The replacement of current hydrocarbon automobiles with electric powered vehicles will only become a reality if the electric powered vehicle can be operated and maintained in a manner equaling or bettering that of the hydrocarbon powered automobile it replaces. Accordingly, the need for electric vehicles to perform in an electrically efficient manner, is important to the success of the electric vehicle.
In order to maximize the electrical efficiency of the electric powered vehicle it is necessary that the electrically powered ancillary components of the electric vehicle function at maximum electrical efficiency. The seats known in the art that provide temperature conditioned air to an occupant do not operate in an electrically efficient manner. The temperature of the air being conditioned by the Peltier thermoelectric devices in such seats is adjusted by dissipating the excess power through a resister, i.e., by using a potentiometer. The practice of dissipating excess power instead of providing only that amount of power necessary to operate the Peltier thermoelectric devices makes such seats unsuited for such power sensitive applications as the electric vehicle as well as other applications where electrical efficiency is a concern.
The seats known in the art constructed to provided temperature conditioned air to an occupant are adjustable in that the occupant may either choose to produce heated air or cooled air. However, the seats known in the art are unable to automatically regulate the temperature or flow rate of the cool or heated air distributed to the occupant in the event that the thermoelectric device malfunctions or in the event that the user falls asleep. An electrical malfunctioning of the thermoelectric device could result in the abnormal heating of the device, causing damage to the thermoelectric device itself. An electrical malfunction could result in the distribution of hot air to the occupant, causing discomfort or even injury. Additionally, an initial temperature setting of maximum heat or maximum cold that is left untouched in the event the occupant falls asleep may cause damage to the thermoelectric device itself or may cause discomfort or even injury to the occupant.
The seats known in the art, while able to vary the distribution of air to the seat bottom or seat back via occupant adjustment, do not allow the occupant to vary the temperature of the air passing through the seat back or seat bottom, independently. The option of being able to selectively heat one portion of the seat and cool the other may be desirable where the occupant requires such selective treatment due to a particular medical condition or injury. For example, one a cold day it would be desirable to distribute heated air to the seat back for occupant comfort and cooled air to the seat bottom to assist in healing a leg injury that has recently occurred.
It is, therefore, desirable that a variable temperature seat comprise a control system and method for regulating the temperature and flow rate of temperature conditioned air to an occupant sitting in the seat. It is desirable that the control system operate the seat in an electrically efficient manner, making it ideal for use in power sensitive applications such as the electric powered vehicle. It is desirable that the control system operate the seat in a manner eliminating the possibility of equipment damage, occupant discomfort or injury. It is also desirable that the control system permit the independent distribution of heated or cooled air to the seat back or seat bottom.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
There is, therefore, provided in practice of this invention a temperature climate control system for use with a variable temperature seat. The temperature climate control system comprises a variable temperature seat suitable for distributing temperature conditioned air to a seated occupant, at least one heat pump for temperature conditioning ambient air and passing the air to the seat, a temperature sensor located at each heat pump, and a controller configured to monitor the temperature of the heat pumps and regulate their operation according to a temperature climate control algorithm.
Each heat pump comprises a number of Peltier thermoelectric modules for selectively heating or cooling ambient air in a main heat exchanger. The heated or cooled air is passed to the seat by a main exchanger fan. Each heat pump also comprises a waste heat exchanger for removing unwanted heat or cooling from the Peltier modules. The unwanted heat or cooling is passed to the outside environment by a waste exchanger fan.
Each main fan may be manually adjusted to operate at a variety of predetermined speeds via a fan switch. Each Peltier module can be manually adjusted to operate in various heating or cooling modes via a temperature switch. The electrical power to each Peltier is pulsed at a duty cycle corresponding to a particular heating or cooling mode of operation to optimize electrical efficiency. Each heat pump may be operated independently via separate fan and temperature switches, or may be operated simultaneously by a common fan and temperature switch. Alternatively, each heat pump may be operated automatically by the controller when the variable temperature seat is occupied by the activation of an occupant presence switch.
After an initial fan speed and Peltier temperature setting has been selected, the controller monitors the temperature information relayed from each heat pump. In addition, the controller may also be configured to monitor the ambient temperature of the air surrounding the variable temperature seat occupant as well as the temperature of the conditioned air directed to the variable temperature seat occupant, via the use of additional temperature sensors. The controller regulates the operation of each main exchanger fan, each waste exchanger fan, and each Peltier module according to a temperature climate control algorithm. The control algorithm is designed to maximize occupant comfort and minimize the possibility of equipment damage, occupant discomfort or even occupant injury in the event of a system malfunction.
The control algorithm is designed to interrupt or limit the power to the Peltier modules and/or each main exchanger fan in the event that the heat pump temperature exceeds a predetermined maximum temperature or a predetermined minimum temperature, indicating a possible heat pump malfunction. Additionally, the control algorithm is designed to interrupt power to the Peltier modules in the event that the temperature of the conditioned air directed to the variable temperature seat occupant exceeds a predetermined maximum or minimum temperature.
The control algorithm is also designed to limit the power to the Peltier modules during the cooling mode of operation when the temperature of the cooling air directed to the occupant exceeds a predetermined minimum cooling temperature and the temperature has not been adjusted for a predetermined period of time, thus minimizing possible occupant discomfort associated with overcooling the occupant's back. In addition, the control algorithm is designed to limit the power to the Peltier modules during the cooling mode of operation when the temperature difference between the ambient air surrounding the variable temperature seat occupant and the conditioned air directed to the occupant is greater than a predetermined amount.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
These and other features and advantages of the present invention will become appreciated as the same becomes better understood with reference to the specification, claims and drawings wherein:
FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional semi-schematic view of an embodiment of a variable temperature seat;
FIG. 2 is a schematic view of a first embodiment of the temperature climate control system according to the present invention;
FIG. 3 is a flow chart illustrating a temperature climate control algorithm for the embodiment of the invention shown in FIG. 2;
FIG. 4 is a schematic view of a second embodiment of the temperature climate control system according to the present invention;
FIG. 5 is a flow chart illustrating a temperature climate control algorithm for the embodiment of the invention shown in FIG. 4;
FIG. 6 is a schematic view of a third embodiment of the temperature control climate control system according to the present invention;
FIG. 7 is a flow chart illustrating a temperature climate control algorithm for the embodiment of the invention shown in FIG. 6; and
FIG. 8 is a schematic view of an alternative embodiment of the temperature climate control system according to the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
A temperature climate control system (TCCS) provided in the practice of this invention may be used to control the temperature of air being distributed through a variable temperature seat (VTS) and directed to a seated occupant. The TCCS may be used in various VTS applications where it is required that an occupant stay seated for a period of time, such as automobiles, trains, planes, buses, dentists chairs, hair styling chairs and the like, or where an occupant simply desires an added degree of comfort while he/she is sitting at work or in the home, such as office chairs, home recliners and the like. The TCCS configured according to the practice of this invention to operate in a manner providing an occupant seated in a VTS a maximum degree of comfort by allowing the occupant to manually adjust both the flow rate and the temperature of the air being passed through the seat surface and directed to the occupant.
The TCCS is configured to automatically override the manual flow rate and temperature settings when it senses that the temperature of the air being directed to the occupant is above a predetermined maximum temperature set point or is below a predetermined minimum temperature set point. Thus, maximizing both occupant comfort and occupant safety in the event that the occupant either falls asleep or in the event that the device generating the temperature conditioned air malfunctions. The TCCS also comprises timers and is configured to automatically override the manual flow rate and temperature settings during normal operation to prevent back discomfort. Additionally, the device generating the temperature conditioned air is operated in a manner maximizing electrical efficiency, making it well suited for use in applications that are sensitive to electrical consumption, such as electric powered vehicles.
FIG. 1 shows an embodiment of a VTS 10 comprising a seat back 12 and a seat bottom 14 for accommodating the support of a human occupant in the sitting position. FIG. 1 shows a simplified cross-sectional view of a VTS for purposes of illustration and clarity. Accordingly, it is to be understood that the VTS may be constructed in embodiments other than that specifically represented. The VTS may be constructed having a outside surface covering 16 made from a suitable material that allows the flow of air through its surface, such as perforated vinyl, cloth, leather or the like. A padding layer 17 such as reticulated foam may lie beneath the outside surface 16 to increase occupant comfort.
The VTS may be constructed having a metal frame (not shown) that generally defines the seat configuration and having seat bottom and seat back cushions 18 made from foam and the like. A number of air channels 20 are positioned within each seat cushion and extend from the padding layer 17 through the seat cushions and to either a seat bottom air inlet 22 or a seat back air inlet 24. Although a particular embodiment of a VTS has specifically described, it has to be understood that the TCCS according to the present invention is meant to operate with any type of VTS having the same general features.
FIG. 2 shows a first embodiment of the TCCS according to the present invention comprising a VTS 10. The air that is passed through the seat and to the occupant is temperature conditioned by a heat pump. This first embodiment comprises a seat back heat pump 26 for temperature conditioning the air passed through the seat back 12 of the VTS, and a seat bottom heat pump 28 for temperature conditioning the air passed through the seat bottom 14 of the VTS. The seat back heat pump and seat bottom heat pump each comprise at least one thermoelectric device 30 and 32, respectively, for temperature conditioning, i.e., selectively heating or cooling, the air. A preferred thermoelectric device is a Peltier thermoelectric module. Each heat pump may comprise more than one Peltier thermoelectric module. A preferred heat pump comprises approximately three Peltier thermoelectric modules.
Each heat pump comprises a main heat exchanger 34 and 36, enclosing air temperature conditioning fins (not shown) depending from one surface of the Peltier modules, and a waste heat exchanger 39 and 40, enclosing thermal exchanger fins (not shown) extending from the Peltier module surface opposite the main heat exchanger. Attached to one end of each main heat exchanger is an outlet from a main exchanger fan 42 and 44 that serves to pass the temperature conditioned air in each main heat exchanger to the seat back or seat bottom, respectively. Each main exchanger fan may comprise an electrical fan having a suitable flow rate, such as an axial blower and the like. The outlet end of each main heat exchanger is connected to an air conduit 46 and 48 that is connected to the respective seat back air inlet 24 or seat bottom air inlet 22. Accordingly, the temperature conditioned air produced by the Peltier thermoelectric modules in each main heat exchanger is passed through the respective air conduit, through the respective air inlet, into and through the respective seat portion of the VTS to the occupant by the main exchanger fan.
Attached to one end of each waste heat exchanger is an outlet from a waste exchanger fan 50 and 52 that serves to pass unwanted waste heat or cooling produced in each waste heat exchanger to the outside environment surrounding the VTS. Each waste exchanger fan may comprise an electrical fan having a suitable air flow rate, such as an axial blower and the like. The waste air exiting each waste heat exchanger fan is usually at an undesirable temperature, i.e., in the cooling mode it is hot air and in the heating mode it is cold air. Consequently, waste air exiting each waste exchanger may be specifically routed away from any occupant, possibly through the sides of the seat or the like.
Attached to the main exchanger side of the Peltier thermoelectric modules in each heat pump is a temperature sensor 54 and 56. Each temperature sensor may comprise an electric thermocouple and the like.
The operation of the main exchanger fans 42 and 44 can be manually controlled by a fan switch 58. In the first embodiment, it is preferred that the main exchanger fans are operated simultaneously by a single fan switch. The fan switch may comprise an electrical switch configured to provide an off position, and a variety of fan speed settings if desired. It is preferred that the fan switch be configured having an off position and three different fan speed settings, namely low, medium and high. The fan switch may be located within or near the VTS for easy occupant access.
The operation of the waste exchanger fans 50 and 52 can be manually controlled by a separate fan switch (not shown) if desired. However, it is preferred that the waste exchanger fans be activated automatically upon the operation of the main exchanger fans and operate at a single predetermined speed. Accordingly, upon the manual operation of the fan switch 58, both the main exchanger fans are activated to a selected speed and the waste exchanger fans are automatically activated to operate at maximum speed. Configuring the TCCS to operate in this manner maximizes the thermal efficiency of the Peltier modules and reduces the possibility of system damage.
The operation of the Pelter thermoelectric modules can be controlled by a temperature switch 60. In the first embodiment it is preferred that the Peltier thermoelectric modules in both heat pumps be operated simultaneously by a single temperature switch. The temperature switch may comprise an electrical switch configured to provide an off position, and a variety of temperature settings if desired. A preferred fan switch is configured having an off position, four heating positions, and four cooling positions. Like the fan switch 58, the temperature switch 60 may be located within or near the VTS for easy occupant access.
When the temperature switch is turned to one of the cooling positions a LED lamp 62 located near the temperature switch registers a green color, indicating that the Peltier modules are operating in the cooling mode. When the temperature switch is turned to one of the heating positions the LED lamp registers a red color, indicating the Peltier modules are operating in the heating mode.
The different heating or cooling modes for the Peltier modules is accomplished by both switching the polarity and limiting the amount of the electrical power routed to the Peltier modules. To optimize the electrical efficiency of the Peltier modules, instead of using a potentiometer to discharge the unwanted portion of the electrical power through a resister, the four different modes of heating and cooling operation are achieved by pulsing electrical power to the Peltier modules at predetermined duty cycles. Accordingly, the different levels of heating or cooling are accomplished by pulsing the electrical power to the Peltier modules at a predetermined duty cycle. In a preferred embodiment, the duty cycle is about 0.02 seconds (50 hz) and the four different levels are accomplished by applying either 25 percent, 50 percent, 75 percent, or 100 percent of the cycle time power. In this embodiment, a 25 percent duty cycle would be on for approximately 0.005 seconds and off for approximately 0.015 seconds for a total cycle length of 0.02 seconds, and then repeated. The 75 percent duty cycle is on for approximately 0.015 seconds and off for approximately 0.005 seconds.
The heating or cooling mode of the Peltier modules is achieved by switching the polarity of the electrical power. The Peltier modules are configured to operate in the heating mode on approximately ten volts DC and in the cooling mode on approximately six volts DC. A DC converter may be positioned outside the controls to supply the heating and cooling voltage. The total duty cycle of the Peltier modules is adjustable from 0.02 to 0.2 seconds. The power for the Peltier modules in each mode was chosen to optimize the efficiency and total thermal power supplied to an occupant of the VTS.
The electrical feeds to and/or outlets from the fan switch 58, temperature switch 60, main exchanger fans 42 and 44, waste exchanger fans 50 and 52, Peltier thermoelectric modules 30 and 32 LED lamp 62, and temperature sensors 54 and 56 and routed to a controller 64. Alternatively, the electrical feeds ad signals may first be routed to a printed circuit board in the seat (not shown) that sends a signal to the controller. The controller comprises a power inlet 66 of sufficient electrical capacity to operate all of the aforementioned devices. The controller is configured to receive occupant inputs from the fan switch and the temperature switch and temperature information from the temperature sensors. From this input the controller is configured to make adjustments to the operation of the heat pumps according to a predetermined algorithm designed to ensure occupant comfort and safety, and protect against system damage.
FIG. 3 is a flow chart illustrating a temperature climate control algorithm for the first embodiment of the TCCS shown in FIG. 2. The occupant wishing to use the VTS operates the main exchanger fans by activating the fan switch 58 and selecting a desired fan speed (step 68). Upon the activation of the main exchanger fans the waste exchanger fans are also activated to operate at a maximum speed (step 70).
The occupant may activate the Peltier modules for temperature conditioning the air in the VTS by positioning the temperatures witch 60 to a desired heating or cooling mode (steps 72 and 74). The Peltier modules can be manually deactivated by selecting the “off” position on the temperature control switch, in which case the power to the fans is maintained as indicated by the LED 62 registering a green color (step 76). Additionally, the Peltier modules are automatically deactivated by the controller when the fan switch is manually placed in the “off” position (step 78).
When the temperature switch is positioned to one of the four cooling modes the LED lamp 62 registers a green color (step 80). The temperature detected by the temperature sensors 54 and 56 in both heat pumps 26 and 28 is passed to the controller (step 82). If the temperature is below about 303° K. (step 84) the power to the Peltier modules remains on (step 86), unless more than six minutes has elapsed since the time that the occupant has last adjusted the temperature (step 88), in which case the power to the Peltier modules is reduced to 25 percent (step 90). It is desirable to reduce the power to the Peltier modules under such circumstances to prevent over cooling of the occupant's back, which has been shown to cause the occupant discomfort after use of the VTS. If the temperature is not below 303° K., however, the power to the Peltier modules is maintained as indicated by the occupant controls (step 86).
When the temperature switch is positioned to one of the four heating modes the LED lamp 62 registers a red color (step 92). If the temperature is below about 339° K. (step 94) the power to the Peltier modules remains on (step 96). If the temperature is in the range of from 339° K. to 349° K. (step 92) the power to the Peltier modules is reduced to 25 percent until the temperature is below 339° K. (step 98). Reducing the power to the Peltier modules in this situation is desired to prevent the Peltier modules from overheating.
If the temperature of the main heat exchanger side of the Peltier modules is below either below 200° K. or above 349° K. (step 100), regardless of whether the Peltier modules are in the heating or cooling mode, the controller deactivates the Peltier modules (step 76) and maintains the operation of the main exchanger fans and waste exchanger fans. The occurrence of either of the above temperature conditions indicates a system malfunction. In this condition the LED lamp 62 registers a orange color, indicating a system malfunction.
The first embodiment comprises conditioned air temperature sensors 102 and 104 positioned in the air flow of the temperature conditioned air passing to the seat, back and seat bottom, respectively, as shown in FIG. 2. The conditioned air temperature sensors are electrically connected to the controller 64. The temperature climate control algorithm described above and illustrated in FIG. 3 is configured to deactivate the Peltier modules in the event that the temperature of the conditioned air is greater than about 325° K. or below about 297° K. While the Peltier modules are deactivated the main exchanger fans continue to run.
FIG. 4 shows a second embodiment of the TCCS according to the practice of the present invention. The second embodiment is similar to the first embodiment in all respects, except for the addition of at least one ambient air temperature sensor 102 to monitor the temperature of the air outside of the VTS surrounding the occupant. The temperature sensor is electrically connected to relay ambient air temperature information to the controller 64. More than one ambient air temperature sensor may be used, each being positioned at different locations in the environment surrounding the occupant, to provide an ambient air temperature profile to the controller.
The second embodiment of the TCCS also differs from the first preferred embodiment in that the fan speed and air temperature for the seat back heat pump 26 and the seat bottom heat pump 28 can each be manually adjusted independently by using a separate seat back fan switch 104 and seat bottom fan switch 106, and a separate seat back temperature switch 108 and seat bottom temperature switch 110. The fan switches 104 and 106 and the temperature switches 108 and 110 in the second embodiment are the same as those previously described in the first embodiment. Alternatively, the TCCS may be configured having a single fan switch (not shown) to control the speed of fans 42 and 44 and two temperature switches (not shown) to control the power to each heap pump 26 and 28 independently. The TCCS may also be configured having a single temperature switch (not shown) to control the power of heat pumps 26 and 28 simultaneously and two fan switches to control the speed of each fan 42 and 44 independently.
LED lamps 112 and 114 are located near each temperature switch to indicate the mode of operation selected for each heat pump, e.g., in the off position the LED lamps are off, when both heat pumps are in the cooling mode the LED lamps register a green color, when both heat pumps are in the heating mode the LED lamps register a red color, when there is a temperature error or Peltier module malfunction in either heat pump the LED lamps fast cycle red and green, registering an orange color.
Configuring the manual fan speed and temperature switches in this manner allows the occupant the ability to operate the seat back 12 of the VTS at a different conditions than the seat bottom 14. This may be desirable where a medical condition or injury requires that a particular portion of the occupant's body be maintained at a temperature different from the remaining portion of the occupant, e.g., where a leg injury requires cooling air in the seat bottom of the VTS and the ambient temperature dictates that heated air pass through the seat back for maximum occupant comfort.
Like the first embodiment, the electrical feeds to and/or outlets from the fan switches 104 and 106, temperature switches 108 and 110, main exchanger fans 42 and 44, waste exchanger fans 50 and 52, Peltier thermoelectric modules 30 and 32, temperature sensors 54 and 56, LED lamps 112 and 114, and the ambient air temperature sensor 102 are routed to the controller 64.
FIG. 5 is a flow chart illustrating a temperature climate control algorithm for the second embodiment of the TCCS shown in FIG. 4. The control algorithm is similar to that previously described above and shown in FIG. 3, except for the additional temperature inputs from the ambient temperature sensor (step 116) and the conditioned air sensor, and except when the Peltier modules are being operated in the cooling mode and the temperature of the conditioned air from the seat back heat pump 26 is below about 310° K. (step 119). When the conditioned air temperature is below about 310° K., if it has been greater than six minutes since the last temperature adjustment by the occupant (step 120), and the conditioned air temperature of the conditioned is approximately 3° K. or more below the temperature of the ambient air surrounding the occupant (step 122) , the controller reduces the power to the Peltier modules in the seat back heat pump 26 to approximately 25 percent (step 124). If the temperature is below about 310° K., but it has either been less than six minutes since the last manual temperature adjustment or the conditioned air temperature is less than 3° K. below the ambient temperature, the power to the Peltier modules in the seat back heat pump remains on at the occupant controlled setting (step 126).
Like the control algorithm described in FIG. 3, the reason for reducing the power to the Peltier modules under such conditions is to regulate the amount of cooling air directed to an occupant's back to prevent possible discomfort after using the VTS.
The second embodiment also comprises conditioned air temperature sensors 128 and 130 positioned in the air flow of the temperature conditioned air passing to the seat, back and bottom, respectively, as shown in FIG. 4. The conditioned air temperature sensors are electrically connected to the controller 64. The temperature climate control algorithm described above and illustrated in FIG. 5 is configured to deactivate the Peltier modules in the event that the temperature of the conditioned air directed to the occupant is greater than about 325° K. or below about 297° K. While the Peltier modules are deactivated the main exchanger fans continue to run.
FIG. 6 shows a third embodiment of the TCCS according to the practice of this invention. The third embodiment is similar to the first embodiment in all respects except for two. One is the addition of at least one ambient air temperature sensor 132 to monitor the temperature of the air outside of the VTS surrounding the occupant. The temperature sensor is electrically connected to feed temperature information to the controller 64. More than one ambient air temperature sensor may be used, each being positioned at different locations in the environment surrounding the occupant, to provide an ambient air temperature profile to the controller.
The second difference in the third embodiment of the TCCS is that only a single heat pump 134 is used to provide temperature conditioned air to both the seat back 12 and the seat bottom 14. The single heat pump is similar to the seat back heat pump 26 and seat bottom heat pump 28 previously described in the first embodiment in that it comprises a main heat exchanger 136, a main exchanger fan 138, a waste heat exchanger 140, a waste exchanger fan 142 and a Peltier module temperature sensor 143. However, instead of three Peltier thermoelectric modules, the single heat pump 134 comprises four Peltier thermoelectric modules 144. The temperature conditioned air from the main heat exchanger is passed to the seat back 12 and seat bottom 14 of the VTS by an air manifold 146 connected at one end to the outlet of the main heat exchanger 136 and at the other end to the seat back air inlet 24 and seat bottom air inlet 22. Alternatively, the third embodiment of the TCCS may comprise a double heat pump arrangement similar to that previously described in the first embodiment.
The third embodiment of the TCCS also differs from the first embodiment in that the main exchanger fan speed and the heat pump air temperature are not manually adjustable by the occupant. Rather, the fan speed and the air temperature are controlled automatically by the controller 64. Additionally, an occupant presence switch 148 is located within the VTS that is activated upon the presence of an occupant in the seat. The occupant presence switch may comprise a weight sensitive switch and the like located in the seat back or seat bottom. In a preferred embodiment, the occupant presence switch is located in the seat bottom and is electrically connected to the controller to relay the presence of an occupant. The use of a occupant presence switch to control the activation of the VTS is desired for purposes of conserving electricity when the VTS is not occupied and when it is not practical or desirable to give individual control over the seats, e.g., in bus passenger seating applications.
FIG. 7 is a flow chart illustrating a temperature climate control algorithm for the third embodiment of the TCCS as shown in FIG. 6. The activation of the main exchanger fan 138 is controlled by an occupant sitting in the VTS (step 150), which activates the occupant presence switch, and the ambient conditions inside the vehicle as transmitted to the controller by the ambient temperature sensors (step 148). To ensure a rapid temperature response upon placement of an occupant in the VTS, the controller pulses electrical power to the Peltier modules in the absence of an occupant at a steady state of voltage in the range of from 0.5 to 1 volt (step 152). The voltage that is actually applied during the duty cycle may be six or twelve volts. By maintaining a slow continuous pulse of power to the Peltier modules the transient time for achieving the desired temperature of conditioned air upon the presence of an occupant in the VTS is greatly minimized.
Once an occupant is seated in the VTS, the particular main fan speed and Peltier operating mode selected by the controller is dependent upon the ambient temperature surrounding the VTS occupant. When the ambient temperature is less than about 286° K. (step 154) the controller selects a heating mode of operation and passes 100 percent power to the Peltier modules and operates the main exchanger fan at medium speed (step 156). Upon the activation of the main exchanger fan the waste exchanger fan is also activated at high speed.
When the ambient temperature is between 286° K. and 290° K. (step 158) the controller selects a heating mode of operation and passes 75 percent power to the Peltier modules and operates the main exchanger fan at medium speed (step 160). When the temperature is between 290° K. and 293° K. (step 162) the controller selects a heating mode of operation and passes 25 percent power to the Peltier modules and operates the main exchanger fan at a medium speed (step 164).
When the ambient temperature is between 293° K. and 297° K. the (step 166) the controller pulses power to the Peltier modules at a steady state of approximately 0.5 volts and deactivates the main exchanger fan (step 168).
When the ambient temperature is between 297° K. and 297° K. (step 170) the controller selects a cooling mode of operation and passes 50 percent power to the Peltier modules and operates the main exchanger fan at medium speed (step 172). When the ambient temperature is between 300° K. and 302° K. (step 174) the controller selects a cooling mode of operation and passes 50 percent power to the Peltier modules and operates the main exchanger fan at high speed (step 176). When the ambient temperature is above 302° K. (step 178) the controller selects a cooling mode of operation and passes 100 percent power to the Peltier modules and operates the main exchanger fan at high sped (step 180).
In either the heating mode of operation (ambient temperatures up to 293° K.) or the cooling mode of operation (ambient temperatures above 297° K.), a Peltier modules temperature (step 182) below 200° K. or above 394° K. (step 184) causes the controller to deactivate the Peltier modules and maintain the operation of the main exchanger fan and waste exchanger fan (Step 186). Either of the above conditions indicate a system malfunction.
The third embodiment also includes a conditioned air temperature sensor 188 positioned in the air flow of the temperature conditioned air passing to the seat, as shown in FIG. 6. The conditioned air temperature sensor is electrically connected to the controller 64. The temperature climate control algorithm described above and illustrated in FIG. 7 is configured to deactivate the Peltier modules 144 in the event that the temperature of the conditioned air passing to the seat and to the occupant is greater than about 325° K. or below about 297° K. While the Peltier modules are deactivated the main exchanger fans continue to run.
The third embodiment of the TCCS as specifically described above and illustrated in FIG. 6 is used for controlling multiple VTSs in multi-occupant applications such as buses, trains, planes and the like. In such an application the main exchanger fan, waste exchanger fan, Peltier modules, temperature sensor, and weight sensitive switch from each VTS are electrically connected to a common controller. Multiple ambient air temperature sensors may be placed at different locations within the vehicle to provide an accurate temperature profile throughout the interior of the vehicle. The common controller is configured to accommodate inputs from the multiple ambient air temperature sensors. The common controller may be configured to control the main fan speed and mode of operation for the Peltier modules in the same manner as that specifically described above and illustrated in FIG. 7, taking into account the possibility of different ambient temperature zones within the vehicle surrounding each VTS.
Although limited embodiments of the temperature climate control system have been described and illustrated herein, many modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art. For example, it is to be understood within the scope of this invention that a temperature climate control system according to the present invention may comprise means for automatically adjusting the flow of temperature conditioned air from a single heat pump to the seat back or the seat bottom.
FIG. 8 illustrates an alternative embodiment of the third embodiment of the TCCS, incorporating the use of valves 190 and 192 placed in the air manifold 146 leading to the seat back and the seat bottom, respectively. The valves are activated electrically by a controller 64 according to a predetermined control algorithm. The control algorithm may be the same as that specifically described above and illustrated in FIG. 7 for the third embodiment, with the addition that controller limits the flow of cooling air to the seat back by closing valve 190 in the event that the occupant receives too much cooling air over a period of time. This embodiment would help eliminate the occurrence of occupant discomfort after using the VTS.
In addition to the embodiments of the TCCS specifically described and illustrated, it is to be understood that such the TCCS may incorporate input from an energy management system, such as that used in electric powered vehicles. In specific embodiments, the TCCS is configured to accept an inhibit signal from such an energy management system. The inhibit signal is typically activated by a vehicle's energy management system under particular conditions of operation when an additional amount of energy is required or when the battery is being discharged to rapidly, such as during hard acceleration, when climbing a hill, or when the battery is weak or is approaching its minimum discharge voltage. The temperature climate control algorithm according to the present invention can be configured to deactivate the Peltier modules, the main exchanger fans, and the waste exchanger fans upon activation of the inhibit signal.
Accordingly, it is to be understood that, within the scope of the appended claims, the temperature climate control system according to principles of this invention may be embodied other than as specifically described herein.

Claims (25)

What is claimed is:
1. A system for controlling the temperature climate in a variable temperature occupant seat comprising:
an occupant seat having means for distributing temperature conditioned air through the seat to increase a seat occupant's thermal comfort;
at least one heat pump connected to the seat by an air conduit for providing temperature conditioning conditioned air to the seat, the heat pump comprising:
at least one thermoelectric module for temperature conditioning the air ;
at least one fan for passing the temperature conditioned air through the seat to an occupant and for removing unwanted thermal energy from the thermoelectric module to the seat;
a controller for activating and regulating the operation of the thermoelectric module and fan of at least one heat pump independent of occupant input after a desired mode of operation has been selected;
means for automatically operating the controller to optimize change system response, to provide maximum thermal comfort to the seated occupant, and to control cooling functions of the system to minimize reduce occupant discomfort and adverse physiological response; and
an indicator switch attached to the seat to detect the presence of an occupant, the indicator switch being electrically connected to the controller.
2. The system as recited in claim 1, comprising a temperature sensor attached to the heat pump to sense the operation of the heat pump, the temperature sensor being electrically connected to the controller to facilitate controlling the operation of the heat pump. with at least one of a sensor sensing the temperature of the heat pump, a sensor sensing the temperature of the seat, or a sensor sensing the ambient air temperature near the seat.
3. The system as recited in claim 2 1, comprisingwherein the sensor comprises at least one temperature sensor positioned in the flow path of the temperature conditioned airfluid.
4. The system as recited in claim 1, comprising more than one seat, the operation of each heat pump for each seat being automatically regulated by a single controller capable of providing different comfort control to different seats.
5. A method for controlling the temperature climate in a variable temperature occupant seat, the method comprising the steps of:
activating at least one thermoelectric module to provide temperature conditioned air to be distributed through a variable temperature seat ;
activating at least one electric fan for passing the temperature conditioned air through means inside of to the variable temperature seat;
sensing a system temperature and relaying the temperature information to a controller;
automatically adjusting the electrical power to the thermoelectric module when the thermoelectric module is operated in a cooling mode and when the temperature of the temperature conditioned air is below a minimum cooling temperature a predetermined amount of time after the cooling mode has been selected; and
automatically activating each fan and each thermoelectric module by occupying the seat and automatically deactivating each fan and the thermoelectric module by vacating the seat.
6. The method as recited in claim 5, comprising manually adjusting the speed of each electric fan and mode of operation for each thermoelectric module to provide a desired flow rate and temperature of conditioned air directed to the occupant.
7. A method for controlling the temperature climate in a variable temperature occupant seat, the method comprising the steps of:
sensing whether the seat is occupied and relaying the information to a controller configured to automatically regulate the operation of one or more thermoelectric modules and fans;
activating at least one thermoelectric module in response to sensing occupancy of the seat to provide temperature conditioned air;
activating at least one fan for passing to pass the temperature conditioned air through air channels inside of to the variable temperature seat;
sensing a system temperature and relaying the temperature information to the controller; and
automatically reducing electrical power to the thermoelectric modules when operated in a cooling mode after the temperature of the temperature conditioned air is below a minimum cooling temperature and after a maximum amount of time has passed since the system was placed in a cooling mode of operation.
8. The method as recited in claim 7, further comprising the steps of reducing electrical power to the thermoelectric modules when operated in a cooling mode, the operating temperature is below a predetermined cooling temperature, a predetermined amount of time has passed since the temperature was last adjusted by the occupant, and the temperature of the conditioned air directed to an occupant is a cooler by a predetermined amount than the ambient temperature surrounding the occupant wherein the step of automatically changing the electrical power comprises the step of changing the power based on signals correlated to temperature and to elapsed time.
9. A method for controlling the temperature climate in a variable controlled occupant seat, the method comprising the steps of:
activating a number of thermoelectric modules for temperature conditioning air to be passed and distributed through a variable temperature seat to generate temperature conditioned air;
activating at least one fan for passing the temperature conditioned air through air channels inside of the variable temperature seat to an occupantcommunicating the temperature conditioned air to the occupant seat by at least one fan; and;
sensing the a control temperature of the thermoelectric modules and relaying information correlated to the temperature information to a controller configured to automatically deactivate the operation of the thermoelectric modules and fans the at least one fan when the temperature is below approximately 200° K. and above approximately 349° K.;
automatically decreasing the electrical power to the thermoelectric modules when the thermoelectric modules are operated in a cooling mode, the temperature is below approximately 303° K., and it has been more than 6 minutes since the operating mode was last adjusted by the occupant; and
automatically decreasing the electrical power to the thermoelectric modules when the thermoelectric modules are operated in a heating mode and the temperature is in the range of from 339° K. to 349° K reaches a predetermined limit for a predetermined time to prevent damage to one of the occupant seat or a seat occupant.
10. The method as recited in claim 9, comprising sensing wherein the control temperature comprises at least one of the temperature of the conditioned air directed to the occupant and the temperature of the ambient air surrounding the occupant and relaying the temperature information to the controller .
11. The method as recited in claim 10, comprising automatically decreasing changing the electrical power to the thermoelectric modules when the thermoelectric modules are operated in a cooling mode, the temperature is below approximately 303° K., it has been more than 6 minutes since a the operating mode was last adjusted by the occupant, and the temperature of the conditioned air is more than 3° K. less than the temperature of the ambient air .
12. A system for controlling the temperature climate in a variable temperature occupant seat comprising:
an occupant seat having means at least one conduit configured to distribute a sufficient amount of temperature conditioned air through the seat and the temperature conditioned air through the seat for the purpose of increasing to increase a seat occupant's thermal comfort;
at least one heat pump for providing temperature conditioned air, each heat pump being connected to in fluid communication with the conduit in the seat by an air conduit and including one or more fans and one or more thermoelectric modules;
a controller for activating and regulating the operation of each in electrical communication with the heat pump to produce and fan and controlled to provide temperature conditioned air at a temperature and fan speed to maximize to increase the thermal comfort of the a seated occupant;
at least one temperature sensor for monitoring the operation of at least one heat pump, the temperature sensor being electrically connected to the controller or monitoring the temperature of the air passing through the heat pump, or monitoring ambient air temperature and providing a signal correlated to that operation or monitored temperature to the controller;
means for automatically operating the controller to optimize system response, to provide maximum thermal comfort to the seated occupant, and to control heating and cooling functions of the system to minimize reduce occupant discomfort and adverse physiological response; and
an indicator for detecting the presence of the seat occupant, the indicator being electrically connected to the controller.
13. A system for controlling the temperature climate in a variable temperature occupant seat comprising:
an occupant seat having means at least one distribution conduit configured to distribute temperature conditioned air through the seat and the temperature conditioned air through the seat for the purpose of increasing to increase a seat occupant's thermal comfort;
at least one heat pump for providing temperature conditioned air from the heat pump to the distribution conduit, each heat pump being connected to the seat by an air conduit and including one or more fans and one or more thermoelectric modules;
a controller for activating and regulating the operation of each heat pump to produce temperature conditioned air at a temperature and fan speed to maximize adjust the thermal comfort of the seated occupant;
at least one temperature sensor for monitoring the operation of at least one heat pump, the temperature sensor being electrically connected to the controller; and
means for automatically operating the controller to optimize vary the system response, to provide maximum thermal comfort to the seated occupant, and to control heating and cooling functions of the system, to minimize reduce occupant discomfort and adverse physiological response, wherein the means for automatically operating the controller reduces the cooling functions of the system when the temperature of the temperature conditioned air is below a minimum cooling temperature and after a maximum amount of time has passed since the system was placed in a cooling mode of operation.
14. The system as recited in claim 13, wherein the reduction in cooling functions variation in temperature conditioned air is achieved by reducing power changing voltage to the thermoelectric module.
15. The system as recited in claim 13, wherein the reduction in cooling functions variation in temperature conditioned air is achieved by reducing changing power to at least one of the thermoelectric module and to the fan.
16. A system for controlling the temperature climate in a variable temperature occupant seat comprising:
an occupant seat having means for distributing temperature conditioned air through the seat to increase a seat occupant's thermal comfort;
at least one heat pump connected to the seat by an air conduit for providing temperature conditioning air to the seat, each heat pump comprising: ;
at least one thermoelectric module for temperature conditioning the air;
at least one fan for passing positioned to move the temperature conditioned air through the seat to an occupant and for removing unwanted thermal energy from the thermoelectric module conduit;
a controller for activating and regulating the operation of the thermoelectric module and fans of each heat pump independent of occupant input after a desired mode of operation has been selected;
means for automatically operating the controller to optimize system response, to provide maximum thermal comfort to the seated occupant, and to control heating and cooling functions of the system, to minimize reduce occupant discomfort and adverse physiological response, wherein the means for automatically operating the controller reduces the cooling functions of the system when the temperature of the temperature conditioned air is below a minimum cooling temperature and after a maximum amount of time has passed since the system was placed in a cooling mode of operation.
17. A system for controlling the temperature climate in a variable temperature occupant seat comprising:
an occupant seat comprising a seat bottom and a seat back portion each having means for distributing an air distribution conduit sized and located to distribute temperature conditioned air through the seat and directing it to an occupant;
a seat back heat pump for conditioning the temperature of the air and passing the air through an air conduit to the seat back, the seat back heat pump comprising a main exchanger fan and at least one thermoelectric module ;
a seat bottom heat pump for conditioning the temperature of the air and passing the air through an air conduit to the seat bottom, the seat bottom heat pump comprising a main exchanger fan and at least one thermoelectric module ;
at least one fan arranged to move air from at least one of the heat pumps through the air conduit associated with the respective heat pump;
aat least one temperature sensor positioned in each heat pumpto monitor the temperature of at least one of the ambient air, conditioned air from at least one heat pump, or at least one heat pump;
a controller for automatically activating and regulating the speed of the main fans, and automatically selecting the mode of operation for the thermoelectric module in each heat pump receiving information from the temperature sensor and configured to automatically activate and regulate at least one of the speed of the fans and the temperature of the air conditioned by at least one of the heat pumps;
means for automatically operating the controller to optimize system response, to provide maximum thermal comfort to the seated occupant, and to control cooling functions of the system to minimize occupant discomfort and adverse physiological response, wherein the means for automatically operating the controller reduces the cooling functions of the system when the temperature of the temperature conditioned air is below a minimum cooling temperature and after a maximum amount of time has passed since the system was placed in a cooling mode of operation.
18. A system for controlling the temperature climate in a variable temperature occupant seat comprising:
an occupant seat comprising a seat bottom and a seat back portion each having means for distributing a system configured and located to distribute temperature conditioned air through in the seat and directing it to an occupant ;
a seat back heat pump for conditioning the temperature of the air and passing the air through an air conduit to the seat back, the seat back heat pump comprising a main exchanger fan and at least one thermoelectric module in fluid communication with a fan arranged to pass temperature conditioned air to the system;
aat least one seat bottom heat pump for conditioning the temperature of the air and passing the air through an air conduit to the seat bottom, the seat bottom heat pump comprising a main exchanger fan and at least one thermoelectric modulein fluid communication with a fan arranged to pass temperature conditioned air to the system;
aat least one temperature sensor positioned in each heat pumpto monitor the temperature of at least one of the seat bottom, seat back, ambient air, conditioned air from at least one heat pump, and at least one heat pump;
a controller for automatically activating and regulating the speed of the main fans, and automatically selecting the mode of operation for the thermoelectric module in each heat pump receiving information from the temperature sensor and configured to automatically activate and regulate at least one of the speed of the fans and the temperature of the air conditioned by at least one of the heat pumps;
means for automatically operating the controller to optimize system response, to provide maximum thermal comfort to the seated occupant, and to control cooling functions of the system to minimize occupant discomfort and adverse physiological response; and
an indicator for detecting the present of an occupant, the indicator being electrically connected to the automatic operating means controller.
19. A system as defined in claim 16, wherein the time and power to the controller vary with a temperature signal from the least one temperature sensor.
20. A system as defined in claim 17, wherein the time and power to the controller vary with a temperature signal from the least one temperature sensor.
21. A system as defined in claim 9, further comprising the step of automatically changing the electrical power to the thermoelectric modules when the control temperature reaches a predetermined temperature and/or when a predetermined amount of time has passed.
22. A system for controlling the temperature climate in a variable temperature occupant seat comprising:
an occupant seat having a conduit to distribute temperature conditioned heating or cooling medium to an area of a seat;
at least one heat pump connected to the seat by a conduit for providing a temperature conditioning medium to the conduit in the seat;
at least one fan for passing the temperature conditioned air to the conduit in the seat;
a controller for activating and regulating the operation of the fan independent of occupant input after a desired mode of operation has been selected;
means for automatically operating the controller to change system response, to provide thermal comfort to the seated occupant, and to control cooling functions of the system to reduce occupant discomfort and adverse physiological response; and
an indicator switch located within the seat to detect the presence of an occupant, the indicator switch being electrically connected to the controller.
23. A method for controlling the temperature climate in a variable temperature occupant seat, the method comprising the steps of:
activating at least one thermoelectric module to provide temperature conditioned air;
activating at least one electric fan for passing the temperature conditioned air to the variable temperature seat;
sensing a system temperature and relating the temperature information to a controller;
automatically adjusting the electrical power to the thermoelectric module based upon temperature and elapsed time information to adjust the temperature of the air distributed to the occupant seat; and
automatically activating each fan and each thermoelectric module by occupying the seat and activating a weight-sensitive sensor and automatically deactivating each fan and the thermoelectric module by vacating the seat and deactivating a weight-sensitive sensor.
24. A method for controlling the temperature climate in a variable temperature occupant seat, the method comprising the steps of:
sensing whether the seat is occupied by use of a weight-sensitive sensor and relaying the information to a controller configured to automatically regulate the operation of one or more thermoelectric modules and fans;
activating at least one thermoelectric module in response to sensing the status of the weight-sensitive sensor to provide temperature conditioned air;
activating at least one fan to pass the temperature conditioned air to the variable temperature seat;
sensing a temperature and relaying the temperature information to the controller; and
automatically changing electrical power to the thermoelectric modules, by varying a duty cycle of power to the modules, when operated in a cooling mode after the temperature of the temperature conditioned air is below a minimum cooling temperature and after a maximum amount of time has passed since the system was placed in a cooling mode of operation.
25. A system for controlling the temperature climate in a variable temperature occupant seat comprising:
an occupant seat having at least one conduit configured to distribute a sufficient amount of temperature conditioned air through the seat to increase a seat occupant's thermal comfort;
at least one heat pump for providing temperature conditioned air, each heat pump being in fluid communication with the conduit in the seat and having a fan to move thermally conditioned air to the conduit in the seat;
a controller in electrical communication with the heat pump and fan and controlled to provide temperature conditioned air to increase the thermal comfort of a seated occupant;
at least one sensor for monitoring the operation of at least one heat pump, or monitoring the temperature of the air passing through the heat pump, or monitoring ambient air temperature and providing a signal correlated to that operation or monitored temperature to the controller;
means for automatically operating the controller to provide thermal comfort to the seated occupant, and to control heating and cooling functions of the system to reduce occupant discomfort and adverse physiological response; and
an indicator located in the seat for detecting the presence of the seat occupant, the indicator being in communication with the controller.
US09/096,226 1993-11-22 1998-06-11 Variable temperature seat climate control system Expired - Lifetime USRE38128E1 (en)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US09/096,226 USRE38128E1 (en) 1993-11-22 1998-06-11 Variable temperature seat climate control system

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US08/156,052 US5524439A (en) 1993-11-22 1993-11-22 Variable temperature seat climate control system
US09/096,226 USRE38128E1 (en) 1993-11-22 1998-06-11 Variable temperature seat climate control system

Related Parent Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US08/156,052 Reissue US5524439A (en) 1993-11-22 1993-11-22 Variable temperature seat climate control system

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
USRE38128E1 true USRE38128E1 (en) 2003-06-03

Family

ID=22557883

Family Applications (2)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US08/156,052 Ceased US5524439A (en) 1993-11-22 1993-11-22 Variable temperature seat climate control system
US09/096,226 Expired - Lifetime USRE38128E1 (en) 1993-11-22 1998-06-11 Variable temperature seat climate control system

Family Applications Before (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US08/156,052 Ceased US5524439A (en) 1993-11-22 1993-11-22 Variable temperature seat climate control system

Country Status (7)

Country Link
US (2) US5524439A (en)
EP (1) EP0730720B1 (en)
JP (4) JPH09505497A (en)
AU (1) AU1184195A (en)
DE (1) DE69425156T2 (en)
SG (1) SG49265A1 (en)
WO (1) WO1995014899A1 (en)

Cited By (148)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20030005706A1 (en) * 2001-02-09 2003-01-09 Bell Lon E Compact, high-efficiency thermoelectric systems
US20040036326A1 (en) * 2002-07-03 2004-02-26 Goran Bajic Automotive vehicle seat insert
US20040139758A1 (en) * 2003-01-14 2004-07-22 Toshifumi Kamiya Seat air conditioner for vehicle and seat structure
US20040139754A1 (en) * 2003-01-10 2004-07-22 Toshifumi Kamiya Vehicle air conditioner with seat air conditioning unit
US20040261829A1 (en) * 2001-10-24 2004-12-30 Bell Lon E. Thermoelectric heterostructure assemblies element
US20050067862A1 (en) * 2003-09-25 2005-03-31 W. E.T. Automotive Systems Ag Ventilated seat
US20050085968A1 (en) * 2003-10-02 2005-04-21 W.E.T. Automotive Systems Ag Temperature conditioned assembly having a controller in communication with a temperature sensor
US6959555B2 (en) 2001-02-09 2005-11-01 Bsst Llc High power density thermoelectric systems
EP1598223A2 (en) 2004-05-20 2005-11-23 Delphi Technologies, Inc. A thermally conditioned vehicle seat
US20050264086A1 (en) * 2004-05-25 2005-12-01 John Lofy Climate controlled seat
US20050278863A1 (en) * 2004-06-22 2005-12-22 Riverpark Incorporated Comfort product
US20060087160A1 (en) * 2004-10-25 2006-04-27 Hanh Dong Apparatus for providing fluid through a vehicle seat
US20060130490A1 (en) * 2004-12-20 2006-06-22 Dusko Petrovski Control system for thermal module vehicle
US20060150657A1 (en) * 2005-01-10 2006-07-13 Caterpillar Inc. Thermoelectric enhanced HVAC system and method
US20060168969A1 (en) * 2005-02-03 2006-08-03 Ligong Mei Compact high-performance thermoelectric device for air cooling applications
US7111465B2 (en) 2001-02-09 2006-09-26 Bsst Llc Thermoelectrics utilizing thermal isolation
US20060214480A1 (en) * 2005-03-23 2006-09-28 John Terech Vehicle seat with thermal elements
US20060272697A1 (en) * 2005-06-06 2006-12-07 Board Of Trustees Of Michigan State University Thermoelectric compositions and process
US20060290176A1 (en) * 2005-06-27 2006-12-28 Denso Corporation Air conditioning unit for seat
FR2890014A1 (en) * 2005-08-30 2007-03-02 Cera Thin seat`s base/backrest forming trimming element for motor vehicle, has foam body with upper and lower surfaces, and air distribution channel extending in body, where channel is in communication with shafts distributed under support zone
US20070101729A1 (en) * 2005-11-04 2007-05-10 Denso Corporation Automotive seat air-conditioning system
US20070101750A1 (en) * 2005-11-09 2007-05-10 Pham Hung M Refrigeration system including thermoelectric module
US20070157631A1 (en) * 2006-01-10 2007-07-12 Lin Jie Huang Control method for thermo-electric heating of a vehicle seat
US20070200398A1 (en) * 2006-02-28 2007-08-30 Scott Richard Wolas Climate controlled seat
US20070209369A1 (en) * 2006-03-07 2007-09-13 Yuji Ito Air-conditioning device
EP1834834A2 (en) 2006-03-15 2007-09-19 Delphi Technologies, Inc. Differential thermal conditioning of a vehicle seat
US20070214799A1 (en) * 2006-03-16 2007-09-20 Goenka Lakhi N Thermoelectric device efficiency enhancement using dynamic feedback
US7273981B2 (en) 2001-02-09 2007-09-25 Bsst, Llc. Thermoelectric power generation systems
US20070262621A1 (en) * 2004-10-25 2007-11-15 Hanh Dong Apparatus for providing fluid through a vehicle seat
US20080047598A1 (en) * 2006-08-03 2008-02-28 Amerigon Inc. Thermoelectric device
US20080100101A1 (en) * 2006-11-01 2008-05-01 Amerigon Inc. Chair with air conditioning device
US20080173342A1 (en) * 2001-02-09 2008-07-24 Bell Lon E Thermoelectric power generating systems utilizing segmented thermoelectric elements
US20080230618A1 (en) * 2004-05-10 2008-09-25 Bsst Llc Climate control system for hybrid vehicles using thermoelectric devices
US20080289677A1 (en) * 2007-05-25 2008-11-27 Bsst Llc Composite thermoelectric materials and method of manufacture
US20080296939A1 (en) * 2007-05-29 2008-12-04 W.E.T. Automotive Systems Ag Methods and systems for providing comfort to an occupant of a vehicle seat
US20080307796A1 (en) * 2001-08-07 2008-12-18 Bell Lon E Thermoelectric personal environment appliance
US20090026813A1 (en) * 2007-07-23 2009-01-29 John Lofy Radial thermoelectric device assembly
US20090033130A1 (en) * 2007-07-02 2009-02-05 David Marquette Fluid delivery systems for climate controlled seats
US20090042501A1 (en) * 2007-08-07 2009-02-12 Hung Stephen T Localized Air Distribution System
US20090082927A1 (en) * 2007-09-25 2009-03-26 W.E.T. Automotive Systems Ag Integrated seat conditioning and multi-component control module
US20090178700A1 (en) * 2008-01-14 2009-07-16 The Ohio State University Research Foundation Thermoelectric figure of merit enhancement by modification of the electronic density of states
US20090218855A1 (en) * 2008-02-26 2009-09-03 Amerigon Incorporated Climate control systems and devices for a seating assembly
US20090229785A1 (en) * 2008-03-13 2009-09-17 Prasad Shripad Kadle Individual HVAC climate control seats
US7591507B2 (en) 2006-04-13 2009-09-22 Amerigon Incorporated Tie strap for climate controlled seat
US20090253362A1 (en) * 2008-04-08 2009-10-08 W.E.T Automotive Systems Ag Ventilation means
US20090288800A1 (en) * 2005-12-27 2009-11-26 Sungho Kang Cooling and Heating Cabinet Device of Rear Seat for Vehicles Using Thermoelectric Element
US20090308565A1 (en) * 2008-06-13 2009-12-17 Jones Robert G Cart occupant cooling system
US7640754B2 (en) 2006-12-14 2010-01-05 Amerigon Incorporated Insert duct piece for thermal electric module
US20100071384A1 (en) * 2008-09-25 2010-03-25 B/E Aerospace, Inc. Refrigeration systems and methods for connection with a vehicle's liquid cooling system
US7708338B2 (en) 2006-10-10 2010-05-04 Amerigon Incorporated Ventilation system for seat
US20100141753A1 (en) * 2000-05-03 2010-06-10 Aperio Technologies, Inc. Optimizing Virtual Slide Image Quality
US7735932B2 (en) 2005-08-19 2010-06-15 W.E.T. Automotive Systems Ag Automotive vehicle seat insert
US7752852B2 (en) 2005-11-09 2010-07-13 Emerson Climate Technologies, Inc. Vapor compression circuit and method including a thermoelectric device
US20100193498A1 (en) * 2009-01-28 2010-08-05 Amerigon Incorporated Convective heater
US20100209230A1 (en) * 2009-02-18 2010-08-19 W.E.T. Automotive Systems Ag Air conditioning device for vehicle seats
US7781704B2 (en) 2003-09-25 2010-08-24 W.E.T. Automotive Systems Ag Control system for operating automotive vehicle components
US20100240292A1 (en) * 2009-03-18 2010-09-23 W.E.T. Automotive Systems Ag Air conditioned object in the interior of a motor vehicle with a switching device
US20100274396A1 (en) * 2009-04-24 2010-10-28 Gm Global Technology Operations, Inc. Thermoelectric climate control
US7827805B2 (en) 2005-03-23 2010-11-09 Amerigon Incorporated Seat climate control system
US20100291414A1 (en) * 2009-05-18 2010-11-18 Bsst Llc Battery Thermal Management System
US20100300644A1 (en) * 2006-08-24 2010-12-02 Chung Sang-Ho Temperature control system for seat of vehicles
US20100313575A1 (en) * 2005-04-08 2010-12-16 Goenka Lakhi N Thermoelectric-based heating and cooling system
US7877827B2 (en) 2007-09-10 2011-02-01 Amerigon Incorporated Operational control schemes for ventilated seat or bed assemblies
US7918498B2 (en) 2003-12-01 2011-04-05 W.E.T. Automotive Systems Ag Valve layer for a seat
US20110079023A1 (en) * 2005-07-19 2011-04-07 Goenka Lakhi N Energy management system for a hybrid-electric vehicle
US7926293B2 (en) 2001-02-09 2011-04-19 Bsst, Llc Thermoelectrics utilizing convective heat flow
US7946120B2 (en) 2001-02-09 2011-05-24 Bsst, Llc High capacity thermoelectric temperature control system
US7952015B2 (en) 2006-03-30 2011-05-31 Board Of Trustees Of Michigan State University Pb-Te-compounds doped with tin-antimony-tellurides for thermoelectric generators or peltier arrangements
US20110127025A1 (en) * 2009-11-27 2011-06-02 Gm Global Technology Operations, Inc. Air conditioner for a motor vehicle
WO2011066896A1 (en) * 2009-12-02 2011-06-09 Volkswagen Aktiengesellschaft Operating unit for an air conditioning device
US20110221242A1 (en) * 2007-10-29 2011-09-15 W.E.T. Automotive Systems Ag Air conditioning device for seats
US20110226751A1 (en) * 2010-05-27 2011-09-22 W.E.T. Automotive Systems, Ltd. Heater for an automotive vehicle and method of forming same
US8065763B2 (en) 2006-10-13 2011-11-29 Amerigon Incorporated Air conditioned bed
US8069674B2 (en) 2001-08-07 2011-12-06 Bsst Llc Thermoelectric personal environment appliance
US8143554B2 (en) 2007-03-16 2012-03-27 Amerigon Incorporated Air warmer
US8181290B2 (en) 2008-07-18 2012-05-22 Amerigon Incorporated Climate controlled bed assembly
US8191187B2 (en) 2009-08-31 2012-06-05 Amerigon Incorporated Environmentally-conditioned topper member for beds
US8256236B2 (en) 2008-02-01 2012-09-04 Gentherm Incorporated Condensation and humidity sensors for thermoelectric devices
US8397518B1 (en) * 2012-02-20 2013-03-19 Dhama Innovations PVT. Ltd. Apparel with integral heating and cooling device
US8438863B2 (en) 2006-01-30 2013-05-14 Gentherm Incorporated Climate controlled beverage container
USRE44272E1 (en) 1998-05-12 2013-06-11 Gentherm Incorporated Thermoelectric heat exchanger
US8507831B2 (en) 2002-11-21 2013-08-13 W.E.T. Automotive Systems Ag Heater for an automotive vehicle and method of forming same
US20130206852A1 (en) * 2012-02-10 2013-08-15 Gentherm Incorporated Moisture abatement in heating operation of climate controlled systems
US8539624B2 (en) 2006-05-31 2013-09-24 Gentherm Incorporated Structure based fluid distribution system
US8613200B2 (en) 2008-10-23 2013-12-24 Bsst Llc Heater-cooler with bithermal thermoelectric device
US8631659B2 (en) 2006-08-02 2014-01-21 Bsst Llc Hybrid vehicle temperature control systems and methods
US8640466B2 (en) 2008-06-03 2014-02-04 Bsst Llc Thermoelectric heat pump
US8722222B2 (en) 2011-07-11 2014-05-13 Gentherm Incorporated Thermoelectric-based thermal management of electrical devices
US8777320B2 (en) 2008-12-21 2014-07-15 W.E.T. Automotive Systems Ag Ventilation system
US8795545B2 (en) 2011-04-01 2014-08-05 Zt Plus Thermoelectric materials having porosity
US8893329B2 (en) 2009-05-06 2014-11-25 Gentherm Incorporated Control schemes and features for climate-controlled beds
US9006556B2 (en) 2005-06-28 2015-04-14 Genthem Incorporated Thermoelectric power generator for variable thermal power source
US9006557B2 (en) 2011-06-06 2015-04-14 Gentherm Incorporated Systems and methods for reducing current and increasing voltage in thermoelectric systems
US9038400B2 (en) 2009-05-18 2015-05-26 Gentherm Incorporated Temperature control system with thermoelectric device
US9105808B2 (en) 2007-01-10 2015-08-11 Gentherm Incorporated Thermoelectric device
US9105809B2 (en) 2007-07-23 2015-08-11 Gentherm Incorporated Segmented thermoelectric device
US9103573B2 (en) 2006-08-02 2015-08-11 Gentherm Incorporated HVAC system for a vehicle
US9121414B2 (en) 2010-11-05 2015-09-01 Gentherm Incorporated Low-profile blowers and methods
US9125497B2 (en) 2007-10-15 2015-09-08 Gentherm Incorporated Climate controlled bed assembly with intermediate layer
US9131781B2 (en) 2012-12-27 2015-09-15 Select Comfort Corporation Distribution pad for a temperature control system
US9162769B2 (en) 2010-04-06 2015-10-20 Gentherm Gmbh Occupancy sensor that measures electric current through a heating element
US9172023B2 (en) 2007-08-24 2015-10-27 Gentherm Gmbh Electrothermal transducer, and temperature controlling device
US9191997B2 (en) 2010-10-19 2015-11-17 Gentherm Gmbh Electrical conductor
US9293680B2 (en) 2011-06-06 2016-03-22 Gentherm Incorporated Cartridge-based thermoelectric systems
US9306143B2 (en) 2012-08-01 2016-04-05 Gentherm Incorporated High efficiency thermoelectric generation
US9310112B2 (en) 2007-05-25 2016-04-12 Gentherm Incorporated System and method for distributed thermoelectric heating and cooling
US9420640B2 (en) 2012-08-29 2016-08-16 Gentherm Gmbh Electrical heating device
US9434284B2 (en) 2011-11-17 2016-09-06 Gentherm Gmbh Thermostat device
US9445524B2 (en) 2012-07-06 2016-09-13 Gentherm Incorporated Systems and methods for thermoelectrically cooling inductive charging stations
US9447994B2 (en) 2008-10-23 2016-09-20 Gentherm Incorporated Temperature control systems with thermoelectric devices
US9448017B2 (en) 2011-12-09 2016-09-20 Gentherm Gmbh Temperature control system for an electrochemical voltage source
US9468045B2 (en) 2011-04-06 2016-10-11 Gentherm Gmbh Heating device for complexly formed surfaces
US9555686B2 (en) 2008-10-23 2017-01-31 Gentherm Incorporated Temperature control systems with thermoelectric devices
US9596945B2 (en) 2014-04-16 2017-03-21 Tempur-Pedic Management, Llc Support cushions and methods for dissipating heat away from the same
US9662962B2 (en) 2013-11-05 2017-05-30 Gentherm Incorporated Vehicle headliner assembly for zonal comfort
US9685599B2 (en) 2011-10-07 2017-06-20 Gentherm Incorporated Method and system for controlling an operation of a thermoelectric device
US9717115B2 (en) 2012-06-18 2017-07-25 Gentherm Gmbh Textile or non-textile sheet and/or fabric with electrical function
US9821832B2 (en) 2012-12-20 2017-11-21 Gentherm Gmbh Fabric with electrical function element
US9857107B2 (en) 2006-10-12 2018-01-02 Gentherm Incorporated Thermoelectric device with internal sensor
WO2018085104A1 (en) 2016-11-01 2018-05-11 Gentherm Incorporated Flexible heater and method of integration
DE102018208505A1 (en) 2017-06-14 2018-12-20 Gentherm Gmbh Air conditioning system with blower connection assembly, which includes a distribution element, and mounting method
US10160356B2 (en) 2014-05-09 2018-12-25 Gentherm Incorporated Climate control assembly
US10201039B2 (en) 2012-01-20 2019-02-05 Gentherm Gmbh Felt heater and method of making
US10219323B2 (en) 2014-02-14 2019-02-26 Genthrem Incorporated Conductive convective climate controlled seat
WO2019048926A1 (en) 2017-09-05 2019-03-14 Gentherm Gmbh Insert for integration into trim layer and providing conditioning
WO2019112823A1 (en) 2017-12-07 2019-06-13 Gentherm Incorporated Conditioning system with a b-side distribution system
US20190210494A1 (en) * 2018-01-05 2019-07-11 Faurecia Sieges D'automobile Vehicle seat and seat element equipped with a ventilation and thermal control system
US10414302B2 (en) 2014-10-17 2019-09-17 Gentherm Incorporated Climate control systems and methods
US10449877B1 (en) 2018-05-14 2019-10-22 Faurecia Automotive Seating, Llc Vehicle seat with serpentine air flow channel
US10471864B1 (en) 2018-05-14 2019-11-12 Faurecia Automotive Seating, Llc Vehicle seat with thermal comfort module
US10589647B2 (en) 2013-12-05 2020-03-17 Gentherm Incorporated Systems and methods for climate controlled seats
US10603976B2 (en) 2014-12-19 2020-03-31 Gentherm Incorporated Thermal conditioning systems and methods for vehicle regions
US10625566B2 (en) 2015-10-14 2020-04-21 Gentherm Incorporated Systems and methods for controlling thermal conditioning of vehicle regions
US10625643B2 (en) 2017-06-14 2020-04-21 Gentherm Gmbh Conditioning system with blower attachment system and method of attachment
WO2020117569A1 (en) 2018-12-06 2020-06-11 Gentherm Incorporated Flexible plenum with rigidification features
WO2020117633A1 (en) 2018-12-06 2020-06-11 Gentherm Incorporated Single piece plenum
WO2020117632A1 (en) 2018-12-06 2020-06-11 Gentherm Incorporated Plenum including flexible regions
WO2020163212A1 (en) 2019-02-08 2020-08-13 Gentherm Incorporated Climate controlled insert with lattice structure
US10772438B2 (en) 2017-08-23 2020-09-15 Sleep Number Corporation Air system for a bed
WO2020263601A1 (en) 2019-06-28 2020-12-30 Gentherm Incorporated B-side distribution system
US10991869B2 (en) 2018-07-30 2021-04-27 Gentherm Incorporated Thermoelectric device having a plurality of sealing materials
US11033058B2 (en) 2014-11-14 2021-06-15 Gentherm Incorporated Heating and cooling technologies
US11152557B2 (en) 2019-02-20 2021-10-19 Gentherm Incorporated Thermoelectric module with integrated printed circuit board
WO2022051047A1 (en) 2020-09-04 2022-03-10 Gentherm Gmbh Air-conditioned vehicle seat
US11318869B2 (en) 2018-12-06 2022-05-03 Gentherm Incorporated Single piece plenum
WO2023007239A1 (en) 2021-07-27 2023-02-02 Gentherm Gmbh Air conditioning system for a vehicle seat
US11639816B2 (en) 2014-11-14 2023-05-02 Gentherm Incorporated Heating and cooling technologies including temperature regulating pad wrap and technologies with liquid system
US11857004B2 (en) 2014-11-14 2024-01-02 Gentherm Incorporated Heating and cooling technologies

Families Citing this family (84)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
ES2133942T3 (en) * 1995-02-14 1999-09-16 Wet Automotive Systems Ag HEATED SEAT.
DE19604477A1 (en) * 1996-02-08 1997-08-14 Teves Gmbh Alfred Cooling device for motor vehicle seats
US5626386A (en) * 1996-07-16 1997-05-06 Atoma International, Inc. Air cooled/heated vehicle seat assembly
US5715695A (en) * 1996-08-27 1998-02-10 Lord; Kevin F. Air conditioned seat
AU702397B2 (en) * 1996-10-07 1999-02-18 Jc Associates Co., Ltd. Vehicle seat
US20060068903A1 (en) * 1996-12-30 2006-03-30 Walker Jay S Methods and apparatus for facilitating accelerated play of a flat rate play gaming session
DE19703516C1 (en) * 1997-01-31 1998-05-07 Daimler Benz Ag Vehicle seat with upholstery heating and cooling
JP3637395B2 (en) * 1997-04-28 2005-04-13 本田技研工業株式会社 Vehicle air conditioner and seat heating / cooling device
DE59806173D1 (en) 1997-06-03 2002-12-12 Wet Automotive Systems Ag SEAT CLIMATE CONTROL DEVICE
JPH11137371A (en) * 1997-11-10 1999-05-25 Aisin Seiki Co Ltd Air permeable seat device
US6105667A (en) * 1998-03-12 2000-08-22 Denso Corporation Air conditioning apparatus for vehicle seat
US6606866B2 (en) 1998-05-12 2003-08-19 Amerigon Inc. Thermoelectric heat exchanger
DE19830274A1 (en) * 1998-07-07 2000-01-13 Opel Adam Ag Heating system for motor vehicles
US6237675B1 (en) 1999-06-14 2001-05-29 Ford Global Technolgies, Inc. Automatic temperature controlled seats
US6273810B1 (en) 1999-09-10 2001-08-14 Mccord Winn Textron Inc. Inflatable air cell having combined pneumatically adjusted occupant support and thermal conditioning
DE10009128C1 (en) * 2000-02-26 2001-08-16 Wet Automotive Systems Ag Device for aerating a vehicle seat has one or more fans fitted in a vehicle seat to be controlled by a central seat control transmitting control signals through a data line to control electronics in a fan casing
EP1129647B1 (en) * 2000-02-29 2012-10-24 Steve Feher Heated or cooled cushion pad
NZ504686A (en) * 2000-05-22 2002-08-28 Frederick Johnston Needham Office chair including self contained air conditioning system
DE10054009B4 (en) * 2000-11-01 2005-01-05 Daimlerchrysler Ag Wind protection device for an open motor vehicle
DE10149757A1 (en) * 2001-10-04 2003-04-10 Behr Gmbh & Co A method for the disc fitting preventing heat pump power control of a vehicle air conditioner
US7581584B2 (en) * 2002-03-19 2009-09-01 Panasonic Corporation Air conditioning seat device
US6682095B2 (en) * 2002-06-21 2004-01-27 Breed Automotive Technology, Inc. Non-safety vehicle systems control using occupant classification
US6857697B2 (en) * 2002-08-29 2005-02-22 W.E.T. Automotive Systems Ag Automotive vehicle seating comfort system
DE10243315B4 (en) * 2002-09-18 2005-11-17 Daimlerchrysler Ag Upholstery for a vehicle seat
FR2845318B1 (en) * 2002-10-04 2006-05-19 Valeo Climatisation THERMAL CONTROL DEVICE FOR A MOTOR VEHICLE BASE USING AT LEAST ONE SEAT
US6779348B2 (en) 2002-11-04 2004-08-24 Tandis, Inc. Thermoelectrically controlled blower
US6701719B1 (en) * 2003-03-04 2004-03-09 Hsiang-Lung Lee Heat exchanging device having high efficiency
DE10317512B3 (en) * 2003-04-16 2004-09-23 Daimlerchrysler Ag Ventilated headrest for seat in road vehicle has air outlet surrounded by cushion and connected to fan lower down in backrest by rectangular-section duct containing heater
DE10350148B3 (en) * 2003-10-28 2005-02-10 Daimlerchrysler Ag Bank for vehicle seat has a ventilation shafts connected by aperture in rear wall with surrounding air
DE10350146B4 (en) * 2003-10-28 2006-05-04 Daimlerchrysler Ag Vehicle seat for a motor vehicle
US20050161193A1 (en) * 2004-01-23 2005-07-28 Mckenzie Chris Seat heating and cooling system
US20050275253A1 (en) * 2004-06-10 2005-12-15 Priebe Joseph A Seating with vertically-lapped padding
AU2005277594A1 (en) 2004-08-16 2006-03-02 Hill-Rom Services, Inc. Chair
US20060075758A1 (en) 2004-10-07 2006-04-13 Tigerone Development, Llc; Air-conditioning and heating system utilizing thermo-electric solid state devices
US7320223B1 (en) 2005-01-28 2008-01-22 United States Of America As Represented By The Administrator Of The National Aeronautics And Space Administration System for controlling child safety seat environment
EP1851087A1 (en) * 2005-02-07 2007-11-07 L&P Property Management Company Heat, cool, and ventilate system for automotive applications
KR20060106507A (en) * 2005-04-09 2006-10-12 한라공조주식회사 Seat air conditioner for vehicle
WO2006124835A1 (en) * 2005-05-16 2006-11-23 Amerigon, Inc. Ventilated headrest
US7363766B2 (en) * 2005-11-08 2008-04-29 Nissan Technical Center North America, Inc. Vehicle air conditioning system
KR100770106B1 (en) * 2006-10-24 2007-10-24 삼성에스디아이 주식회사 Lithium rechargeable battery
US20080164733A1 (en) * 2007-01-08 2008-07-10 Giffin Steven C Clamp for climate control device
WO2008150448A1 (en) * 2007-05-31 2008-12-11 Twill Tech., Inc. Dynamically balanced in-line wheel vehicle
WO2009003086A1 (en) * 2007-06-26 2008-12-31 Continental Automotive Systems Us, Inc. Preliminary vehicle heating and cooling by peltier effect
US8066324B2 (en) * 2007-06-26 2011-11-29 Lear Corporation Reduced power heat mat
US20090000031A1 (en) * 2007-06-29 2009-01-01 Steve Feher Multiple convective cushion seating and sleeping systems and methods
JP5095292B2 (en) * 2007-08-01 2012-12-12 ニスカ株式会社 Bookbinding apparatus and image forming system having the same
DE112008002116A5 (en) * 2007-10-25 2010-05-06 W.E.T. Automotive Systems Ag Kkimatisierungseinrichtung for a seat device
JP4486990B2 (en) * 2007-11-12 2010-06-23 ビステオン グローバル テクノロジーズ インコーポレイテッド Temperature control sheet
JP2011506178A (en) * 2007-12-10 2011-03-03 ヴィー・エー・テー・オートモーティヴ・システムス・アクチェンゲゼルシャフト Improved air conditioning module and method
US8443613B2 (en) 2008-08-27 2013-05-21 Thermotek, Inc. Vehicle air comfort system and method
US8136874B2 (en) * 2009-05-29 2012-03-20 GM Global Technology Operations LLC Fluidic climate control system for a seat
FR2950577B1 (en) * 2009-09-25 2011-09-30 Neo Factory AUTOMOBILE HEATED AND COOLING SEAT
US8584286B2 (en) 2010-04-27 2013-11-19 Ec Service Inc. Systems and methods for providing a self deflating cushion
WO2012044966A1 (en) 2010-09-30 2012-04-05 Thermotek, Inc. Maximizing thermal properties of a thermoelectric cooler
WO2012116730A1 (en) 2011-03-01 2012-09-07 Societe Eon Heating and cooling car seat
DE102012102041B4 (en) * 2012-03-09 2019-04-18 Audi Ag Apparatus and method for anti-icing control for heat pump evaporators
JP6102134B2 (en) 2012-09-18 2017-03-29 株式会社デンソー Vehicle seat air conditioner
DE102013221516A1 (en) 2013-10-23 2015-04-23 Bayerische Motoren Werke Aktiengesellschaft An air supply device for a vehicle seat and method for operating the air supply device
CN105980203B (en) * 2013-12-31 2018-09-28 捷温汽车系统(中国)有限公司 Ventilating system
US9403460B2 (en) * 2014-02-06 2016-08-02 Ford Global Technologies, Llc Vehicle seating assembly having a climate controlled seat utilizing a plenum volume and flexible hoses
US20170129375A1 (en) * 2014-06-12 2017-05-11 Gentherm Automotive Systems (China) Ltd. Ventilation device for supplying air to a passenger on a vehicle seat
KR20170078732A (en) 2014-10-31 2017-07-07 젠썸 인코포레이티드 Vehicle microclimate system and method of controlling same
US20170005250A1 (en) * 2015-06-30 2017-01-05 The Boeing Company Powering aircraft sensors using thermal capacitors
WO2017173222A1 (en) 2016-04-01 2017-10-05 Gentherm Inc. Occupant thermal state detection and comfort adjustment system and method
US10160355B2 (en) * 2016-08-15 2018-12-25 Fca Us Llc Vehicle seat ventilation system and control
US10039213B1 (en) * 2017-01-13 2018-07-31 Hewlett Packard Enterprise Development Lp Air inlet channel with thermoelectric cooling element
US10827845B2 (en) 2017-02-24 2020-11-10 Sealy Technology, Llc Support cushions including a support insert with a bag for directing air flow, and methods for controlling surface temperature of same
WO2019080957A1 (en) * 2017-10-27 2019-05-02 Gentherm Gmbh Surface temperature-controlling device
US11375825B2 (en) 2018-02-22 2022-07-05 Sealy Technology, Llc Support cushions including a pocketed coil layer with a plurality of fabric types for directing air flow, and methods for controlling surface temperature of same
US11084404B2 (en) * 2018-03-23 2021-08-10 Tesla, Inc. Vehicle seat with integrated temperature-control system
US11160386B2 (en) 2018-06-29 2021-11-02 Tempur World, Llc Body support cushion with ventilation system
DE102019210991A1 (en) * 2019-07-24 2021-01-28 Mahle International Gmbh Child seat assembly and a motor vehicle
US11642991B2 (en) * 2019-07-26 2023-05-09 Nikola Corporation Vehicle seat with integral air ducting
US11524784B2 (en) * 2019-07-31 2022-12-13 B/E Aerospace, Inc. Ventilated seat assembly with active air flow
JP7315429B2 (en) 2019-10-07 2023-07-26 トヨタ自動車株式会社 Temperature control device controller for convertible vehicle
US20220388366A1 (en) 2019-11-20 2022-12-08 Gentherm Incorporated Automotive seat based microclimate system
DE112020005192T5 (en) 2019-11-20 2023-02-23 Gentherm Inc. Vehicle seat based microclimate system
WO2021158860A1 (en) 2020-02-05 2021-08-12 Gentherm Incorporated Thermal conditioning system including segmented architecture
JP2023516892A (en) 2020-02-05 2023-04-21 ジェンサーム インコーポレイテッド Thermophysiology based microclimate control system
JP2023514133A (en) 2020-02-05 2023-04-05 ジェンサーム インコーポレイテッド Vehicle Microclimate Personalization Based on Occupant Thermal Physiology
WO2022197549A1 (en) 2021-03-16 2022-09-22 Gentherm Incorporated Microclimate system for a vehicle occupant and corresponding method
WO2022197546A1 (en) 2021-03-16 2022-09-22 Gentherm Incorporated Microclimate system for a vehicle occupant and corresponding method
WO2022250883A1 (en) 2021-05-28 2022-12-01 Gentherm Incorporated Method to control thermal sensation according to occupancy of seats
US20230348068A1 (en) * 2022-04-29 2023-11-02 Hamilton Sundstrand Corporation Trim module with thermoelectric cooler

Citations (23)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US1541213A (en) 1922-12-11 1925-06-09 Erskine P Harley Seat cushion
US2782834A (en) 1955-05-27 1957-02-26 Vigo Benny Richard Air-conditioned furniture article
US2826135A (en) 1954-04-21 1958-03-11 American Motors Corp Seat construction
US2912832A (en) 1956-05-31 1959-11-17 Int Harvester Co Cooling apparatus for vehicle seats
US2978972A (en) 1958-11-03 1961-04-11 Wesley F Hake Ventilating and cooling system for automobile seats
US2992604A (en) 1958-06-09 1961-07-18 Trotman Forced air under body ventilating device
US3030145A (en) 1953-08-26 1962-04-17 Kushion Kooler Corp Ventilating seat pad
US3136577A (en) 1961-08-02 1964-06-09 Stevenson P Clark Seat temperature regulator
US3137523A (en) 1963-09-20 1964-06-16 Karner Frank Air conditioned seat
US3550523A (en) * 1969-05-12 1970-12-29 Irving Segal Seat construction for automotive air conditioning
US3552133A (en) 1968-02-20 1971-01-05 Sergei Meerovich Lukomsky Heating and cooling unit
US3653589A (en) 1970-07-27 1972-04-04 Carrier Corp Air conditioning system
US3653590A (en) 1970-07-27 1972-04-04 Carrier Corp Air conditioning apparatus
US3684170A (en) 1970-07-27 1972-08-15 Carrier Corp Air conditioning apparatus
US4065936A (en) 1976-06-16 1978-01-03 Borg-Warner Corporation Counter-flow thermoelectric heat pump with discrete sections
US4665707A (en) 1985-08-26 1987-05-19 Hamilton A C Protection system for electronic apparatus
US4777802A (en) 1987-04-23 1988-10-18 Steve Feher Blanket assembly and selectively adjustable apparatus for providing heated or cooled air thereto
US4905475A (en) 1989-04-27 1990-03-06 Donald Tuomi Personal comfort conditioner
US4923248A (en) 1988-11-17 1990-05-08 Steve Feher Cooling and heating seat pad construction
US5002336A (en) 1989-10-18 1991-03-26 Steve Feher Selectively cooled or heated seat and backrest construction
US5117638A (en) 1991-03-14 1992-06-02 Steve Feher Selectively cooled or heated seat construction and apparatus for providing temperature conditioned fluid and method therefor
US5226188A (en) 1992-06-26 1993-07-13 Liou Yaw Tyng Ventilated foam cushion
JPH05277020A (en) 1992-03-30 1993-10-26 Aisin Seiki Co Ltd Seat for automobile

Family Cites Families (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DE2007810A1 (en) * 1969-03-31 1970-10-08 Nordisk Ventilator Co. A/S, Naestved (Dänemark) Double rotor for axial fans

Patent Citations (23)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US1541213A (en) 1922-12-11 1925-06-09 Erskine P Harley Seat cushion
US3030145A (en) 1953-08-26 1962-04-17 Kushion Kooler Corp Ventilating seat pad
US2826135A (en) 1954-04-21 1958-03-11 American Motors Corp Seat construction
US2782834A (en) 1955-05-27 1957-02-26 Vigo Benny Richard Air-conditioned furniture article
US2912832A (en) 1956-05-31 1959-11-17 Int Harvester Co Cooling apparatus for vehicle seats
US2992604A (en) 1958-06-09 1961-07-18 Trotman Forced air under body ventilating device
US2978972A (en) 1958-11-03 1961-04-11 Wesley F Hake Ventilating and cooling system for automobile seats
US3136577A (en) 1961-08-02 1964-06-09 Stevenson P Clark Seat temperature regulator
US3137523A (en) 1963-09-20 1964-06-16 Karner Frank Air conditioned seat
US3552133A (en) 1968-02-20 1971-01-05 Sergei Meerovich Lukomsky Heating and cooling unit
US3550523A (en) * 1969-05-12 1970-12-29 Irving Segal Seat construction for automotive air conditioning
US3653589A (en) 1970-07-27 1972-04-04 Carrier Corp Air conditioning system
US3653590A (en) 1970-07-27 1972-04-04 Carrier Corp Air conditioning apparatus
US3684170A (en) 1970-07-27 1972-08-15 Carrier Corp Air conditioning apparatus
US4065936A (en) 1976-06-16 1978-01-03 Borg-Warner Corporation Counter-flow thermoelectric heat pump with discrete sections
US4665707A (en) 1985-08-26 1987-05-19 Hamilton A C Protection system for electronic apparatus
US4777802A (en) 1987-04-23 1988-10-18 Steve Feher Blanket assembly and selectively adjustable apparatus for providing heated or cooled air thereto
US4923248A (en) 1988-11-17 1990-05-08 Steve Feher Cooling and heating seat pad construction
US4905475A (en) 1989-04-27 1990-03-06 Donald Tuomi Personal comfort conditioner
US5002336A (en) 1989-10-18 1991-03-26 Steve Feher Selectively cooled or heated seat and backrest construction
US5117638A (en) 1991-03-14 1992-06-02 Steve Feher Selectively cooled or heated seat construction and apparatus for providing temperature conditioned fluid and method therefor
JPH05277020A (en) 1992-03-30 1993-10-26 Aisin Seiki Co Ltd Seat for automobile
US5226188A (en) 1992-06-26 1993-07-13 Liou Yaw Tyng Ventilated foam cushion

Non-Patent Citations (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Title
Publication, Abstract Thermoelectric Air Conditioned Variable Temperature Seat (VTS) & Effect Upon Vehicle Occupant Comfort, Vehicle Energy Efficiency, and Vehicle Environment Compatability.

Cited By (291)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
USRE44272E1 (en) 1998-05-12 2013-06-11 Gentherm Incorporated Thermoelectric heat exchanger
US20100141753A1 (en) * 2000-05-03 2010-06-10 Aperio Technologies, Inc. Optimizing Virtual Slide Image Quality
US20110162389A1 (en) * 2001-02-09 2011-07-07 Bsst, Llc Thermoelectrics utilizing convective heat flow
US7231772B2 (en) 2001-02-09 2007-06-19 Bsst Llc. Compact, high-efficiency thermoelectric systems
US7926293B2 (en) 2001-02-09 2011-04-19 Bsst, Llc Thermoelectrics utilizing convective heat flow
US7273981B2 (en) 2001-02-09 2007-09-25 Bsst, Llc. Thermoelectric power generation systems
US8079223B2 (en) 2001-02-09 2011-12-20 Bsst Llc High power density thermoelectric systems
US7587902B2 (en) 2001-02-09 2009-09-15 Bsst, Llc High power density thermoelectric systems
US7111465B2 (en) 2001-02-09 2006-09-26 Bsst Llc Thermoelectrics utilizing thermal isolation
US6959555B2 (en) 2001-02-09 2005-11-01 Bsst Llc High power density thermoelectric systems
US20030005706A1 (en) * 2001-02-09 2003-01-09 Bell Lon E Compact, high-efficiency thermoelectric systems
US20080173342A1 (en) * 2001-02-09 2008-07-24 Bell Lon E Thermoelectric power generating systems utilizing segmented thermoelectric elements
US8375728B2 (en) 2001-02-09 2013-02-19 Bsst, Llc Thermoelectrics utilizing convective heat flow
US20050263177A1 (en) * 2001-02-09 2005-12-01 Bell Lon E High power density thermoelectric systems
US7946120B2 (en) 2001-02-09 2011-05-24 Bsst, Llc High capacity thermoelectric temperature control system
US20100031988A1 (en) * 2001-02-09 2010-02-11 Bell Lon E High power density thermoelectric systems
US7942010B2 (en) 2001-02-09 2011-05-17 Bsst, Llc Thermoelectric power generating systems utilizing segmented thermoelectric elements
US8495884B2 (en) 2001-02-09 2013-07-30 Bsst, Llc Thermoelectric power generating systems utilizing segmented thermoelectric elements
US8490412B2 (en) 2001-08-07 2013-07-23 Bsst, Llc Thermoelectric personal environment appliance
US20080307796A1 (en) * 2001-08-07 2008-12-18 Bell Lon E Thermoelectric personal environment appliance
US8069674B2 (en) 2001-08-07 2011-12-06 Bsst Llc Thermoelectric personal environment appliance
US7932460B2 (en) 2001-10-24 2011-04-26 Zt Plus Thermoelectric heterostructure assemblies element
US20040261829A1 (en) * 2001-10-24 2004-12-30 Bell Lon E. Thermoelectric heterostructure assemblies element
US20110220163A1 (en) * 2001-10-24 2011-09-15 Zt Plus Thermoelectric heterostructure assemblies element
US20040036326A1 (en) * 2002-07-03 2004-02-26 Goran Bajic Automotive vehicle seat insert
US20050127723A1 (en) * 2002-07-03 2005-06-16 W.E.T. Automotive Systems Ltd. Automotive vehicle seat insert
US8766142B2 (en) 2002-11-21 2014-07-01 W.E.T. Automotive Systems Ag Heater for an automotive vehicle and method of forming same
US9578690B2 (en) 2002-11-21 2017-02-21 Gentherm Gmbh Heater for an automotive vehicle and method of forming same
US8507831B2 (en) 2002-11-21 2013-08-13 W.E.T. Automotive Systems Ag Heater for an automotive vehicle and method of forming same
US9315133B2 (en) 2002-11-21 2016-04-19 Gentherm Gmbh Heater for an automotive vehicle and method of forming same
US20040139754A1 (en) * 2003-01-10 2004-07-22 Toshifumi Kamiya Vehicle air conditioner with seat air conditioning unit
US6928829B2 (en) * 2003-01-10 2005-08-16 Denso Corporation Vehicle air conditioner with seat air conditioning unit
US20040139758A1 (en) * 2003-01-14 2004-07-22 Toshifumi Kamiya Seat air conditioner for vehicle and seat structure
US7013653B2 (en) * 2003-01-14 2006-03-21 Denso Corporation Seat air conditioner for vehicle and seat structure
US8309892B2 (en) 2003-09-25 2012-11-13 W.E.T. Automotive System, Ltd Control system for operating automotive vehicle components
US7781704B2 (en) 2003-09-25 2010-08-24 W.E.T. Automotive Systems Ag Control system for operating automotive vehicle components
US20050067862A1 (en) * 2003-09-25 2005-03-31 W. E.T. Automotive Systems Ag Ventilated seat
US7477969B2 (en) * 2003-10-02 2009-01-13 W.E.T. Automotive Systems Ag Temperature conditioned assembly having a controller in communication with a temperature sensor
US20050085968A1 (en) * 2003-10-02 2005-04-21 W.E.T. Automotive Systems Ag Temperature conditioned assembly having a controller in communication with a temperature sensor
US8235462B2 (en) 2003-12-01 2012-08-07 W.E.T. Automotive Systems, Ltd. Valve layer for a seat
US7918498B2 (en) 2003-12-01 2011-04-05 W.E.T. Automotive Systems Ag Valve layer for a seat
US9365090B2 (en) 2004-05-10 2016-06-14 Gentherm Incorporated Climate control system for vehicles using thermoelectric devices
US20080230618A1 (en) * 2004-05-10 2008-09-25 Bsst Llc Climate control system for hybrid vehicles using thermoelectric devices
US7870892B2 (en) 2004-05-10 2011-01-18 Bsst Llc Climate control method for hybrid vehicles using thermoelectric devices
US7610767B2 (en) 2004-05-20 2009-11-03 Delphi Technologies, Inc. Thermoelectrically heated/cooled seat with improved transient response using a proportioning valve
US7238101B2 (en) 2004-05-20 2007-07-03 Delphi Technologies, Inc. Thermally conditioned vehicle seat
US7533535B2 (en) 2004-05-20 2009-05-19 Delphi Technologies, Inc Thermally conditioned container for a vehicle
US20050257531A1 (en) * 2004-05-20 2005-11-24 Kadle Prasad S Thermally conditioned container for a vehicle
EP1598223A3 (en) * 2004-05-20 2006-06-07 Delphi Technologies, Inc. A thermally conditioned vehicle seat
EP1598223A2 (en) 2004-05-20 2005-11-23 Delphi Technologies, Inc. A thermally conditioned vehicle seat
US7475464B2 (en) 2004-05-25 2009-01-13 Amerigon Incorporated Climate controlled seat
US7114771B2 (en) 2004-05-25 2006-10-03 Amerigon, Inc. Climate controlled seat
US20060208540A1 (en) * 2004-05-25 2006-09-21 John Lofy Climate controlled seat
US20060197363A1 (en) * 2004-05-25 2006-09-07 John Lofy Climate controlled seat
US20050264086A1 (en) * 2004-05-25 2005-12-01 John Lofy Climate controlled seat
US20050278863A1 (en) * 2004-06-22 2005-12-22 Riverpark Incorporated Comfort product
DE112005002145T5 (en) 2004-09-23 2008-07-31 W.E.T. Automotive Systems Ag Temperature conditioned arrangement with a controller in communication with a temperature sensor
WO2006048782A2 (en) * 2004-09-23 2006-05-11 W.E.T. Automotive Systems Ag Temperature conditioned assembly having a controller in communication with a temperature sensor
WO2006048782A3 (en) * 2004-09-23 2006-07-06 Wet Automotive Systems Ag Temperature conditioned assembly having a controller in communication with a temperature sensor
US20070262621A1 (en) * 2004-10-25 2007-11-15 Hanh Dong Apparatus for providing fluid through a vehicle seat
US20060087160A1 (en) * 2004-10-25 2006-04-27 Hanh Dong Apparatus for providing fluid through a vehicle seat
US7966835B2 (en) 2004-12-20 2011-06-28 Amerigon Incorporated Thermal module for climate-controlled seat assemblies
US8516842B2 (en) 2004-12-20 2013-08-27 Gentherm Incorporated Thermal conditioning system for climate-controlled seat assemblies
US7587901B2 (en) * 2004-12-20 2009-09-15 Amerigon Incorporated Control system for thermal module in vehicle
US20100001558A1 (en) * 2004-12-20 2010-01-07 Amerion Incorporated Thermal module for climate-controlled seat assemblies
US20060130490A1 (en) * 2004-12-20 2006-06-22 Dusko Petrovski Control system for thermal module vehicle
US10005337B2 (en) * 2004-12-20 2018-06-26 Gentherm Incorporated Heating and cooling systems for seating assemblies
US20140090829A1 (en) * 2004-12-20 2014-04-03 Gentherm Incorporated Thermal module
US20060150657A1 (en) * 2005-01-10 2006-07-13 Caterpillar Inc. Thermoelectric enhanced HVAC system and method
US20060168969A1 (en) * 2005-02-03 2006-08-03 Ligong Mei Compact high-performance thermoelectric device for air cooling applications
US20070001489A1 (en) * 2005-03-23 2007-01-04 John Terech Vehicle seat with thermal elements
US20060214480A1 (en) * 2005-03-23 2006-09-28 John Terech Vehicle seat with thermal elements
US8434314B2 (en) * 2005-03-23 2013-05-07 Gentherm Incorporated Climate control systems and methods
US20110048033A1 (en) * 2005-03-23 2011-03-03 Amerigon Incorporated Climate control systems and methods
US7827805B2 (en) 2005-03-23 2010-11-09 Amerigon Incorporated Seat climate control system
US8408012B2 (en) 2005-04-08 2013-04-02 Bsst Llc Thermoelectric-based heating and cooling system
US8915091B2 (en) 2005-04-08 2014-12-23 Gentherm Incorporated Thermoelectric-based thermal management system
US9863672B2 (en) 2005-04-08 2018-01-09 Gentherm Incorporated Thermoelectric-based air conditioning system
US20100313575A1 (en) * 2005-04-08 2010-12-16 Goenka Lakhi N Thermoelectric-based heating and cooling system
US20060272697A1 (en) * 2005-06-06 2006-12-07 Board Of Trustees Of Michigan State University Thermoelectric compositions and process
US7847179B2 (en) 2005-06-06 2010-12-07 Board Of Trustees Of Michigan State University Thermoelectric compositions and process
US20060290176A1 (en) * 2005-06-27 2006-12-28 Denso Corporation Air conditioning unit for seat
US7275984B2 (en) 2005-06-27 2007-10-02 Denso Corp Air conditioning unit for seat
US9006556B2 (en) 2005-06-28 2015-04-14 Genthem Incorporated Thermoelectric power generator for variable thermal power source
US8261868B2 (en) 2005-07-19 2012-09-11 Bsst Llc Energy management system for a hybrid-electric vehicle
US20110079023A1 (en) * 2005-07-19 2011-04-07 Goenka Lakhi N Energy management system for a hybrid-electric vehicle
US8783397B2 (en) 2005-07-19 2014-07-22 Bsst Llc Energy management system for a hybrid-electric vehicle
US7735932B2 (en) 2005-08-19 2010-06-15 W.E.T. Automotive Systems Ag Automotive vehicle seat insert
US7971931B2 (en) 2005-08-19 2011-07-05 W.E.T. Automotive Systems Ag Automotive vehicle seat insert
US9440567B2 (en) 2005-08-19 2016-09-13 Gentherm Gmbh Automotive vehicle seat insert
US8360517B2 (en) 2005-08-19 2013-01-29 W.E.T. Automotive Systems, Ag. Automotive vehicle seat insert
US8162391B2 (en) 2005-08-19 2012-04-24 W.E.T. Automotive Systems Ag Automotive vehicle seat insert
FR2890014A1 (en) * 2005-08-30 2007-03-02 Cera Thin seat`s base/backrest forming trimming element for motor vehicle, has foam body with upper and lower surfaces, and air distribution channel extending in body, where channel is in communication with shafts distributed under support zone
US20070101729A1 (en) * 2005-11-04 2007-05-10 Denso Corporation Automotive seat air-conditioning system
US7647780B2 (en) 2005-11-04 2010-01-19 Denso Corporation Automotive seat air-conditioning system
US7752852B2 (en) 2005-11-09 2010-07-13 Emerson Climate Technologies, Inc. Vapor compression circuit and method including a thermoelectric device
US8307663B2 (en) 2005-11-09 2012-11-13 Emerson Climate Technologies, Inc. Vapor compression circuit and method including a thermoelectric device
US20070101750A1 (en) * 2005-11-09 2007-05-10 Pham Hung M Refrigeration system including thermoelectric module
US7937954B2 (en) * 2005-12-27 2011-05-10 Halla Climate Control Corporation Cooling and heating cabinet device of rear seat for vehicles using thermoelectric element
US20090288800A1 (en) * 2005-12-27 2009-11-26 Sungho Kang Cooling and Heating Cabinet Device of Rear Seat for Vehicles Using Thermoelectric Element
US20070157630A1 (en) * 2006-01-10 2007-07-12 Kadle Prasad S Control method for thermal regulation of a vehicle seat
US7640753B2 (en) 2006-01-10 2010-01-05 Delphi Technologies, Inc. Control method for thermal regulation of a vehicle seat
US20070157631A1 (en) * 2006-01-10 2007-07-12 Lin Jie Huang Control method for thermo-electric heating of a vehicle seat
US8438863B2 (en) 2006-01-30 2013-05-14 Gentherm Incorporated Climate controlled beverage container
US20070200398A1 (en) * 2006-02-28 2007-08-30 Scott Richard Wolas Climate controlled seat
US7832214B2 (en) 2006-03-07 2010-11-16 Denso Corporation Air-conditioning device
US20070209369A1 (en) * 2006-03-07 2007-09-13 Yuji Ito Air-conditioning device
US20070214800A1 (en) * 2006-03-15 2007-09-20 Kadle Prasad S Differential thermal conditioning of a vehicle seat
EP1834834A2 (en) 2006-03-15 2007-09-19 Delphi Technologies, Inc. Differential thermal conditioning of a vehicle seat
US7621135B2 (en) 2006-03-15 2009-11-24 Delphi Technologies, Inc. Differential thermal conditioning of a vehicle seat
US20070214799A1 (en) * 2006-03-16 2007-09-20 Goenka Lakhi N Thermoelectric device efficiency enhancement using dynamic feedback
US7870745B2 (en) 2006-03-16 2011-01-18 Bsst Llc Thermoelectric device efficiency enhancement using dynamic feedback
US20110107772A1 (en) * 2006-03-16 2011-05-12 Lakhi Nandlal Goenka Thermoelectric device efficiency enhancement using dynamic feedback
US8424315B2 (en) 2006-03-16 2013-04-23 Bsst Llc Thermoelectric device efficiency enhancement using dynamic feedback
US7952015B2 (en) 2006-03-30 2011-05-31 Board Of Trustees Of Michigan State University Pb-Te-compounds doped with tin-antimony-tellurides for thermoelectric generators or peltier arrangements
US7591507B2 (en) 2006-04-13 2009-09-22 Amerigon Incorporated Tie strap for climate controlled seat
USRE47574E1 (en) 2006-05-31 2019-08-20 Gentherm Incorporated Structure based fluid distribution system
US8539624B2 (en) 2006-05-31 2013-09-24 Gentherm Incorporated Structure based fluid distribution system
US9103573B2 (en) 2006-08-02 2015-08-11 Gentherm Incorporated HVAC system for a vehicle
US8631659B2 (en) 2006-08-02 2014-01-21 Bsst Llc Hybrid vehicle temperature control systems and methods
US8222511B2 (en) 2006-08-03 2012-07-17 Gentherm Thermoelectric device
US20080047598A1 (en) * 2006-08-03 2008-02-28 Amerigon Inc. Thermoelectric device
US8393162B2 (en) * 2006-08-24 2013-03-12 Sang-ho Chung Temperature control system for seat of vehicles
US20100300644A1 (en) * 2006-08-24 2010-12-02 Chung Sang-Ho Temperature control system for seat of vehicles
US7708338B2 (en) 2006-10-10 2010-05-04 Amerigon Incorporated Ventilation system for seat
US9857107B2 (en) 2006-10-12 2018-01-02 Gentherm Incorporated Thermoelectric device with internal sensor
US8065763B2 (en) 2006-10-13 2011-11-29 Amerigon Incorporated Air conditioned bed
US8732874B2 (en) 2006-10-13 2014-05-27 Gentherm Incorporated Heated and cooled bed assembly
US9603459B2 (en) 2006-10-13 2017-03-28 Genthem Incorporated Thermally conditioned bed assembly
US20080100101A1 (en) * 2006-11-01 2008-05-01 Amerigon Inc. Chair with air conditioning device
US20100146700A1 (en) * 2006-11-01 2010-06-17 Amerigon Incorporated Chair with air conditioning device
US7963594B2 (en) * 2006-11-01 2011-06-21 Amerigon Incorporated Chair with air conditioning device
US7665803B2 (en) 2006-11-01 2010-02-23 Amerigon Incorporated Chair with air conditioning device
US7640754B2 (en) 2006-12-14 2010-01-05 Amerigon Incorporated Insert duct piece for thermal electric module
US9105808B2 (en) 2007-01-10 2015-08-11 Gentherm Incorporated Thermoelectric device
US8143554B2 (en) 2007-03-16 2012-03-27 Amerigon Incorporated Air warmer
US9310112B2 (en) 2007-05-25 2016-04-12 Gentherm Incorporated System and method for distributed thermoelectric heating and cooling
US20080289677A1 (en) * 2007-05-25 2008-11-27 Bsst Llc Composite thermoelectric materials and method of manufacture
US9366461B2 (en) 2007-05-25 2016-06-14 Gentherm Incorporated System and method for climate control within a passenger compartment of a vehicle
US10464391B2 (en) 2007-05-25 2019-11-05 Gentherm Incorporated System and method for distributed thermoelectric heating and cooling
US20080296939A1 (en) * 2007-05-29 2008-12-04 W.E.T. Automotive Systems Ag Methods and systems for providing comfort to an occupant of a vehicle seat
US20090033130A1 (en) * 2007-07-02 2009-02-05 David Marquette Fluid delivery systems for climate controlled seats
US9105809B2 (en) 2007-07-23 2015-08-11 Gentherm Incorporated Segmented thermoelectric device
US20090026813A1 (en) * 2007-07-23 2009-01-29 John Lofy Radial thermoelectric device assembly
US20090042501A1 (en) * 2007-08-07 2009-02-12 Hung Stephen T Localized Air Distribution System
US10132534B2 (en) 2007-08-24 2018-11-20 Gentherm Gmbh Electrothermal transducer, and temperature controlling device
US11578900B2 (en) 2007-08-24 2023-02-14 Gentherm Gmbh Electrothermal transducer, and temperature controlling device
US9172023B2 (en) 2007-08-24 2015-10-27 Gentherm Gmbh Electrothermal transducer, and temperature controlling device
US10405667B2 (en) * 2007-09-10 2019-09-10 Gentherm Incorporated Climate controlled beds and methods of operating the same
US8402579B2 (en) 2007-09-10 2013-03-26 Gentherm Incorporated Climate controlled beds and methods of operating the same
US7877827B2 (en) 2007-09-10 2011-02-01 Amerigon Incorporated Operational control schemes for ventilated seat or bed assemblies
US20090082927A1 (en) * 2007-09-25 2009-03-26 W.E.T. Automotive Systems Ag Integrated seat conditioning and multi-component control module
US9974394B2 (en) 2007-10-15 2018-05-22 Gentherm Incorporated Climate controlled bed assembly with intermediate layer
US9125497B2 (en) 2007-10-15 2015-09-08 Gentherm Incorporated Climate controlled bed assembly with intermediate layer
US20110221242A1 (en) * 2007-10-29 2011-09-15 W.E.T. Automotive Systems Ag Air conditioning device for seats
US20090178700A1 (en) * 2008-01-14 2009-07-16 The Ohio State University Research Foundation Thermoelectric figure of merit enhancement by modification of the electronic density of states
US8505320B2 (en) 2008-02-01 2013-08-13 Gentherm Incorporated Climate controlled seating assembly with humidity sensor
US9651279B2 (en) 2008-02-01 2017-05-16 Gentherm Incorporated Condensation and humidity sensors for thermoelectric devices
US10228166B2 (en) 2008-02-01 2019-03-12 Gentherm Incorporated Condensation and humidity sensors for thermoelectric devices
US9335073B2 (en) 2008-02-01 2016-05-10 Gentherm Incorporated Climate controlled seating assembly with sensors
US8256236B2 (en) 2008-02-01 2012-09-04 Gentherm Incorporated Condensation and humidity sensors for thermoelectric devices
US20090218855A1 (en) * 2008-02-26 2009-09-03 Amerigon Incorporated Climate control systems and devices for a seating assembly
US20090229785A1 (en) * 2008-03-13 2009-09-17 Prasad Shripad Kadle Individual HVAC climate control seats
US20090253362A1 (en) * 2008-04-08 2009-10-08 W.E.T Automotive Systems Ag Ventilation means
US9085255B2 (en) 2008-04-08 2015-07-21 Gentherm Gmbh Ventilation means
US9719701B2 (en) 2008-06-03 2017-08-01 Gentherm Incorporated Thermoelectric heat pump
US8701422B2 (en) 2008-06-03 2014-04-22 Bsst Llc Thermoelectric heat pump
US8640466B2 (en) 2008-06-03 2014-02-04 Bsst Llc Thermoelectric heat pump
US10473365B2 (en) 2008-06-03 2019-11-12 Gentherm Incorporated Thermoelectric heat pump
US20090308565A1 (en) * 2008-06-13 2009-12-17 Jones Robert G Cart occupant cooling system
US9622588B2 (en) 2008-07-18 2017-04-18 Gentherm Incorporated Environmentally-conditioned bed
US8418286B2 (en) 2008-07-18 2013-04-16 Gentherm Incorporated Climate controlled bed assembly
US8782830B2 (en) 2008-07-18 2014-07-22 Gentherm Incorporated Environmentally conditioned bed assembly
US8181290B2 (en) 2008-07-18 2012-05-22 Amerigon Incorporated Climate controlled bed assembly
US10226134B2 (en) 2008-07-18 2019-03-12 Gentherm Incorporated Environmentally-conditioned bed
US11297953B2 (en) 2008-07-18 2022-04-12 Sleep Number Corporation Environmentally-conditioned bed
US20100071384A1 (en) * 2008-09-25 2010-03-25 B/E Aerospace, Inc. Refrigeration systems and methods for connection with a vehicle's liquid cooling system
US9238398B2 (en) * 2008-09-25 2016-01-19 B/E Aerospace, Inc. Refrigeration systems and methods for connection with a vehicle's liquid cooling system
US9555686B2 (en) 2008-10-23 2017-01-31 Gentherm Incorporated Temperature control systems with thermoelectric devices
US9447994B2 (en) 2008-10-23 2016-09-20 Gentherm Incorporated Temperature control systems with thermoelectric devices
US8613200B2 (en) 2008-10-23 2013-12-24 Bsst Llc Heater-cooler with bithermal thermoelectric device
US8777320B2 (en) 2008-12-21 2014-07-15 W.E.T. Automotive Systems Ag Ventilation system
US9415712B2 (en) 2008-12-21 2016-08-16 Gentherm Gmbh Ventilation system
US20100193498A1 (en) * 2009-01-28 2010-08-05 Amerigon Incorporated Convective heater
US8575518B2 (en) 2009-01-28 2013-11-05 Gentherm Incorporated Convective heater
US8167368B2 (en) 2009-02-18 2012-05-01 W.E.T. Automotive System Ag Air conditioning device for vehicle seats
US20100209230A1 (en) * 2009-02-18 2010-08-19 W.E.T. Automotive Systems Ag Air conditioning device for vehicle seats
US9815347B2 (en) 2009-03-18 2017-11-14 Gentherm Gmbh Air conditioned object in the interior of a motor vehicle with a switching device
US20100240292A1 (en) * 2009-03-18 2010-09-23 W.E.T. Automotive Systems Ag Air conditioned object in the interior of a motor vehicle with a switching device
US20100274396A1 (en) * 2009-04-24 2010-10-28 Gm Global Technology Operations, Inc. Thermoelectric climate control
US8893329B2 (en) 2009-05-06 2014-11-25 Gentherm Incorporated Control schemes and features for climate-controlled beds
US9038400B2 (en) 2009-05-18 2015-05-26 Gentherm Incorporated Temperature control system with thermoelectric device
US10106011B2 (en) 2009-05-18 2018-10-23 Gentherm Incorporated Temperature control system with thermoelectric device
US20100291414A1 (en) * 2009-05-18 2010-11-18 Bsst Llc Battery Thermal Management System
US9666914B2 (en) 2009-05-18 2017-05-30 Gentherm Incorporated Thermoelectric-based battery thermal management system
US8974942B2 (en) 2009-05-18 2015-03-10 Gentherm Incorporated Battery thermal management system including thermoelectric assemblies in thermal communication with a battery
US20110236731A1 (en) * 2009-05-18 2011-09-29 Bsst Llc Battery Thermal Management System
US11264655B2 (en) 2009-05-18 2022-03-01 Gentherm Incorporated Thermal management system including flapper valve to control fluid flow for thermoelectric device
US11203249B2 (en) 2009-05-18 2021-12-21 Gentherm Incorporated Temperature control system with thermoelectric device
US8332975B2 (en) 2009-08-31 2012-12-18 Gentherm Incorporated Climate-controlled topper member for medical beds
US11020298B2 (en) 2009-08-31 2021-06-01 Sleep Number Corporation Climate-controlled topper member for beds
US10675198B2 (en) 2009-08-31 2020-06-09 Gentherm Incorporated Climate-controlled topper member for beds
US11389356B2 (en) 2009-08-31 2022-07-19 Sleep Number Corporation Climate-controlled topper member for beds
US11045371B2 (en) 2009-08-31 2021-06-29 Sleep Number Corporation Climate-controlled topper member for beds
US8191187B2 (en) 2009-08-31 2012-06-05 Amerigon Incorporated Environmentally-conditioned topper member for beds
US8621687B2 (en) 2009-08-31 2014-01-07 Gentherm Incorporated Topper member for bed
US11642265B2 (en) 2009-08-31 2023-05-09 Sleep Number Corporation Climate-controlled topper member for beds
US11903888B2 (en) 2009-08-31 2024-02-20 Sleep Number Corporation Conditioner mat system for use with a bed assembly
US9814641B2 (en) 2009-08-31 2017-11-14 Genthrem Incorporated Climate-controlled topper member for beds
US20110127025A1 (en) * 2009-11-27 2011-06-02 Gm Global Technology Operations, Inc. Air conditioner for a motor vehicle
WO2011066896A1 (en) * 2009-12-02 2011-06-09 Volkswagen Aktiengesellschaft Operating unit for an air conditioning device
US9162769B2 (en) 2010-04-06 2015-10-20 Gentherm Gmbh Occupancy sensor that measures electric current through a heating element
US20110226751A1 (en) * 2010-05-27 2011-09-22 W.E.T. Automotive Systems, Ltd. Heater for an automotive vehicle and method of forming same
US9657963B2 (en) 2010-05-27 2017-05-23 Gentherm Canada Ltd. Heater for an automotive vehicle and method of forming same
US8702164B2 (en) 2010-05-27 2014-04-22 W.E.T. Automotive Systems, Ltd. Heater for an automotive vehicle and method of forming same
WO2011149680A1 (en) 2010-05-27 2011-12-01 W.E.T. Automotive Systems, Ltd. Heater for an automotive vehicle and method of forming same
US8544942B2 (en) 2010-05-27 2013-10-01 W.E.T. Automotive Systems, Ltd. Heater for an automotive vehicle and method of forming same
US9191997B2 (en) 2010-10-19 2015-11-17 Gentherm Gmbh Electrical conductor
US9121414B2 (en) 2010-11-05 2015-09-01 Gentherm Incorporated Low-profile blowers and methods
US10288084B2 (en) 2010-11-05 2019-05-14 Gentherm Incorporated Low-profile blowers and methods
US11408438B2 (en) 2010-11-05 2022-08-09 Gentherm Incorporated Low-profile blowers and methods
US8795545B2 (en) 2011-04-01 2014-08-05 Zt Plus Thermoelectric materials having porosity
US9468045B2 (en) 2011-04-06 2016-10-11 Gentherm Gmbh Heating device for complexly formed surfaces
US9293680B2 (en) 2011-06-06 2016-03-22 Gentherm Incorporated Cartridge-based thermoelectric systems
US9006557B2 (en) 2011-06-06 2015-04-14 Gentherm Incorporated Systems and methods for reducing current and increasing voltage in thermoelectric systems
US8722222B2 (en) 2011-07-11 2014-05-13 Gentherm Incorporated Thermoelectric-based thermal management of electrical devices
US9685599B2 (en) 2011-10-07 2017-06-20 Gentherm Incorporated Method and system for controlling an operation of a thermoelectric device
US10208990B2 (en) 2011-10-07 2019-02-19 Gentherm Incorporated Thermoelectric device controls and methods
US9434284B2 (en) 2011-11-17 2016-09-06 Gentherm Gmbh Thermostat device
US9448017B2 (en) 2011-12-09 2016-09-20 Gentherm Gmbh Temperature control system for an electrochemical voltage source
US10201039B2 (en) 2012-01-20 2019-02-05 Gentherm Gmbh Felt heater and method of making
US9989267B2 (en) * 2012-02-10 2018-06-05 Gentherm Incorporated Moisture abatement in heating operation of climate controlled systems
US20130206852A1 (en) * 2012-02-10 2013-08-15 Gentherm Incorporated Moisture abatement in heating operation of climate controlled systems
US10495322B2 (en) 2012-02-10 2019-12-03 Gentherm Incorporated Moisture abatement in heating operation of climate controlled systems
US8397518B1 (en) * 2012-02-20 2013-03-19 Dhama Innovations PVT. Ltd. Apparel with integral heating and cooling device
US9717115B2 (en) 2012-06-18 2017-07-25 Gentherm Gmbh Textile or non-textile sheet and/or fabric with electrical function
US10219407B2 (en) 2012-07-06 2019-02-26 Gentherm Incorporated Systems and methods for cooling inductive charging assemblies
US10455728B2 (en) 2012-07-06 2019-10-22 Gentherm Incorporated Systems and methods for thermoelectrically cooling inductive charging stations
US9861006B2 (en) 2012-07-06 2018-01-02 Gentherm Incorporated Systems and methods for thermoelectrically cooling inductive charging stations
US9451723B2 (en) 2012-07-06 2016-09-20 Gentherm Incorporated System and method for thermoelectrically cooling inductive charging assemblies
US9445524B2 (en) 2012-07-06 2016-09-13 Gentherm Incorporated Systems and methods for thermoelectrically cooling inductive charging stations
US9306143B2 (en) 2012-08-01 2016-04-05 Gentherm Incorporated High efficiency thermoelectric generation
US9420640B2 (en) 2012-08-29 2016-08-16 Gentherm Gmbh Electrical heating device
US9821832B2 (en) 2012-12-20 2017-11-21 Gentherm Gmbh Fabric with electrical function element
US10194752B2 (en) 2012-12-27 2019-02-05 Sleep Number Corporation Distribution pad for a temperature control system
US9131781B2 (en) 2012-12-27 2015-09-15 Select Comfort Corporation Distribution pad for a temperature control system
US11083308B2 (en) 2012-12-27 2021-08-10 Sleep Number Corporation Distribution pad for a temperature control system
US10266031B2 (en) 2013-11-05 2019-04-23 Gentherm Incorporated Vehicle headliner assembly for zonal comfort
US9662962B2 (en) 2013-11-05 2017-05-30 Gentherm Incorporated Vehicle headliner assembly for zonal comfort
US10589647B2 (en) 2013-12-05 2020-03-17 Gentherm Incorporated Systems and methods for climate controlled seats
US11240882B2 (en) 2014-02-14 2022-02-01 Gentherm Incorporated Conductive convective climate controlled seat
US10219323B2 (en) 2014-02-14 2019-02-26 Genthrem Incorporated Conductive convective climate controlled seat
US11240883B2 (en) 2014-02-14 2022-02-01 Gentherm Incorporated Conductive convective climate controlled seat
US9596945B2 (en) 2014-04-16 2017-03-21 Tempur-Pedic Management, Llc Support cushions and methods for dissipating heat away from the same
US10647232B2 (en) 2014-05-09 2020-05-12 Gentherm Incorporated Climate control assembly
US10457173B2 (en) 2014-05-09 2019-10-29 Gentherm Incorporated Climate control assembly
US10160356B2 (en) 2014-05-09 2018-12-25 Gentherm Incorporated Climate control assembly
US10414302B2 (en) 2014-10-17 2019-09-17 Gentherm Incorporated Climate control systems and methods
US11639816B2 (en) 2014-11-14 2023-05-02 Gentherm Incorporated Heating and cooling technologies including temperature regulating pad wrap and technologies with liquid system
US11857004B2 (en) 2014-11-14 2024-01-02 Gentherm Incorporated Heating and cooling technologies
US11033058B2 (en) 2014-11-14 2021-06-15 Gentherm Incorporated Heating and cooling technologies
US10603976B2 (en) 2014-12-19 2020-03-31 Gentherm Incorporated Thermal conditioning systems and methods for vehicle regions
US11358433B2 (en) 2014-12-19 2022-06-14 Gentherm Incorporated Thermal conditioning systems and methods for vehicle regions
US10625566B2 (en) 2015-10-14 2020-04-21 Gentherm Incorporated Systems and methods for controlling thermal conditioning of vehicle regions
WO2018085104A1 (en) 2016-11-01 2018-05-11 Gentherm Incorporated Flexible heater and method of integration
US10710480B2 (en) 2017-06-14 2020-07-14 Gentherm Gmbh Conditioning system with blower connection assembly including a distribution member and method of attachment
US10625643B2 (en) 2017-06-14 2020-04-21 Gentherm Gmbh Conditioning system with blower attachment system and method of attachment
DE102018208505A1 (en) 2017-06-14 2018-12-20 Gentherm Gmbh Air conditioning system with blower connection assembly, which includes a distribution element, and mounting method
US11553802B2 (en) 2017-08-23 2023-01-17 Sleep Number Corporation Air system for a bed
US10772438B2 (en) 2017-08-23 2020-09-15 Sleep Number Corporation Air system for a bed
WO2019048926A1 (en) 2017-09-05 2019-03-14 Gentherm Gmbh Insert for integration into trim layer and providing conditioning
US11091072B2 (en) 2017-12-07 2021-08-17 Gentherm Incorporated Conditioning system with a B-side distribution system
WO2019112823A1 (en) 2017-12-07 2019-06-13 Gentherm Incorporated Conditioning system with a b-side distribution system
US11077776B2 (en) * 2018-01-05 2021-08-03 Faurecia Sièges d'Automobile Vehicle seat and seat element equipped with a ventilation and thermal control system
US20190210494A1 (en) * 2018-01-05 2019-07-11 Faurecia Sieges D'automobile Vehicle seat and seat element equipped with a ventilation and thermal control system
US10449877B1 (en) 2018-05-14 2019-10-22 Faurecia Automotive Seating, Llc Vehicle seat with serpentine air flow channel
US10471864B1 (en) 2018-05-14 2019-11-12 Faurecia Automotive Seating, Llc Vehicle seat with thermal comfort module
US11075331B2 (en) 2018-07-30 2021-07-27 Gentherm Incorporated Thermoelectric device having circuitry with structural rigidity
US11223004B2 (en) 2018-07-30 2022-01-11 Gentherm Incorporated Thermoelectric device having a polymeric coating
US10991869B2 (en) 2018-07-30 2021-04-27 Gentherm Incorporated Thermoelectric device having a plurality of sealing materials
WO2020117633A1 (en) 2018-12-06 2020-06-11 Gentherm Incorporated Single piece plenum
US11318869B2 (en) 2018-12-06 2022-05-03 Gentherm Incorporated Single piece plenum
WO2020117569A1 (en) 2018-12-06 2020-06-11 Gentherm Incorporated Flexible plenum with rigidification features
WO2020117632A1 (en) 2018-12-06 2020-06-11 Gentherm Incorporated Plenum including flexible regions
WO2020163212A1 (en) 2019-02-08 2020-08-13 Gentherm Incorporated Climate controlled insert with lattice structure
US11152557B2 (en) 2019-02-20 2021-10-19 Gentherm Incorporated Thermoelectric module with integrated printed circuit board
DE112020003123T5 (en) 2019-06-28 2022-05-05 Gentherm Incorporated B-SIDE DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM
WO2020263601A1 (en) 2019-06-28 2020-12-30 Gentherm Incorporated B-side distribution system
DE112021004650T5 (en) 2020-09-04 2023-09-14 Gentherm Gmbh AIR CONDITIONED VEHICLE SEAT
WO2022051047A1 (en) 2020-09-04 2022-03-10 Gentherm Gmbh Air-conditioned vehicle seat
WO2023007239A1 (en) 2021-07-27 2023-02-02 Gentherm Gmbh Air conditioning system for a vehicle seat

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
JP2007210613A (en) 2007-08-23
US5524439A (en) 1996-06-11
JPH09505497A (en) 1997-06-03
JP2008195400A (en) 2008-08-28
EP0730720A1 (en) 1996-09-11
EP0730720B1 (en) 2000-07-05
WO1995014899A1 (en) 1995-06-01
DE69425156D1 (en) 2000-08-10
EP0730720A4 (en) 1996-12-18
SG49265A1 (en) 1998-05-18
DE69425156T2 (en) 2001-03-15
JP2005280710A (en) 2005-10-13
AU1184195A (en) 1995-06-13

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
USRE38128E1 (en) Variable temperature seat climate control system
US5626021A (en) Variable temperature seat climate control system
US8066324B2 (en) Reduced power heat mat
JP3074477B2 (en) Ventilated and heatable seat
US7966835B2 (en) Thermal module for climate-controlled seat assemblies
US6676207B2 (en) Vehicle seat
JP4175000B2 (en) Temperature control device and seat incorporating this device
US7621135B2 (en) Differential thermal conditioning of a vehicle seat
JP2004215748A (en) Air-conditioner for vehicle
GB2321722A (en) Vehicle seat with heating and ventilation
WO2009036077A1 (en) Operational control schemes for ventilated seat or bed assemblies
JP2008529872A (en) Automotive heating, cooling and ventilation systems
KR20180006559A (en) Cold and warm headrest for vehicle and operation control method thereof
JP2003042590A (en) Temperature regulating device
US20190061576A1 (en) Power source for thermal components
JP2003042591A (en) Temperature regulating device
WO2009028985A1 (en) Seat with a temperature control system
RU70483U1 (en) CHAIR WITH THERMAL REGULATION SYSTEM
JP2001145542A (en) Seat for vehicle
JP2003042595A (en) Temperature regulating device
KR200357474Y1 (en) A Vehicle seat with cooling/heating device
JP2003042592A (en) Temperature regulating device
JP2003042593A (en) Temperature regulating device
JPH04100726A (en) Heating apparatus for vehicle

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
AS Assignment

Owner name: BIG STAR INVESTMENTS LLC, CALIFORNIA

Free format text: SECURITY INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:AMERIGON INCORPORATED;REEL/FRAME:009896/0037

Effective date: 19990329

AS Assignment

Owner name: BIG STAR INVESTMENTS LLC, CALIFORNIA

Free format text: RELEASE BY SECURED PARTY;ASSIGNOR:AMERIGON INC.;REEL/FRAME:010059/0366

Effective date: 19990604

AS Assignment

Owner name: BIG STAR INVESTMENTS LLC, MICHIGAN

Free format text: SECURITY INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:AMERIGON INCORPORATED;REEL/FRAME:010742/0421

Effective date: 20000316

FPAY Fee payment

Year of fee payment: 8

SULP Surcharge for late payment

Year of fee payment: 7

CC Certificate of correction
FEPP Fee payment procedure

Free format text: PAT HOLDER NO LONGER CLAIMS SMALL ENTITY STATUS, ENTITY STATUS SET TO UNDISCOUNTED (ORIGINAL EVENT CODE: STOL); ENTITY STATUS OF PATENT OWNER: LARGE ENTITY

FPAY Fee payment

Year of fee payment: 12

AS Assignment

Owner name: BANK OF AMERICA, N.A., TEXAS

Free format text: SECURITY AGREEMENT;ASSIGNORS:AMERIGON INCORPORATED;BSST LLC;ZT PLUS, LLC;REEL/FRAME:028192/0016

Effective date: 20110330

AS Assignment

Owner name: GENTHERM INCORPORATED, MICHIGAN

Free format text: CHANGE OF NAME;ASSIGNOR:AMERIGON INCORPORATED;REEL/FRAME:029722/0326

Effective date: 20120902