U.S. patent application number 11/435325 was filed with the patent office on 2006-12-07 for ventilated headrest.
Invention is credited to Brian Comiskey, John Lofy.
Application Number | 20060273646 11/435325 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 36997680 |
Filed Date | 2006-12-07 |
United States Patent
Application |
20060273646 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Comiskey; Brian ; et
al. |
December 7, 2006 |
Ventilated headrest
Abstract
A climate controlled seat assembly includes a seat having a seat
cushion, a backrest having a backrest cushion, and a headrest
having a headrest cushion. The headrest is moveably mounted to the
backrest. The headrest cushion includes at least one fluid
passageway extending at least partially therethrough. A
thermoelectric device is in fluid communication with the at least
one fluid passageway. A fluid transfer device that is in fluid
communication with the at least one fluid passageway is coupled to
the headrest such the thermal module moves with the headrest as it
is moved with respect to the backrest.
Inventors: |
Comiskey; Brian; (Tustin,
CA) ; Lofy; John; (Claremont, CA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
KNOBBE MARTENS OLSON & BEAR LLP
2040 MAIN STREET
FOURTEENTH FLOOR
IRVINE
CA
92614
US
|
Family ID: |
36997680 |
Appl. No.: |
11/435325 |
Filed: |
May 16, 2006 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
60681359 |
May 16, 2005 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
297/408 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B60N 2/5628 20130101;
B60N 2/5657 20130101; B60N 2/838 20180201; B60N 2/809 20180201;
A47C 7/74 20130101; B60N 2/5685 20130101; B60N 2/5692 20130101;
B60N 2/879 20180201 |
Class at
Publication: |
297/408 |
International
Class: |
A47C 1/10 20060101
A47C001/10 |
Claims
1. A climate controlled seat assembly comprising: a seat comprising
a seat cushion; a backrest comprising a backrest cushion; a
headrest comprising a headrest cushion, the headrest moveably
mounted to the backrest, the headrest cushion comprising at least
one fluid passageway extending at least partially therethrough; a
thermoelectric device in fluid communication with the at least one
fluid passageway; and a fluid transfer device that is in fluid
communication with the at least one fluid passageway and is coupled
to the headrest such the thermal module moves with the headrest as
it is moved with respect to the backrest.
2. The climate controlled seat assembly of claim 1, wherein the
thermal module is at least partially positioned within the headrest
cushion.
3. The climate controlled seat assembly of claim 1, wherein the
thermoelectric device comprises a Peltier circuit.
4. The climate controlled seat assembly of claim 1, wherein the
thermal module includes a radial fan.
5. The climate controlled seat assembly of claim 1, wherein the
headrest includes at least one opening configured to transmit air
from the at least one fluid passageway to a front surface of the
headrest.
6. The climate controlled seat assembly of claim 1, further
comprising a backrest fluid distribution system including at least
one passage extending at least partially within the backrest
cushion.
7. The climate controlled seat assembly of claim 6, further
comprising a thermal element that is disposed at least partially
between a covering of the backrest and the backrest cushion and a
fluid transfer device in fluid communication with the at least one
passage within the backrest cushion.
8. The climate controlled seat assembly of claim 1, further
comprising a backrest fluid distribution system including at least
one passage extending at least partially within the seat
cushion.
9. The climate controlled seat assembly of claim 6, further
comprising a backrest thermal module that is in fluid communication
with the at least one passage in the backrest cushion and
comprising a thermoelectric device and a fluid transfer device.
10. The climate controlled seat assembly of claim 9, further
comprising a seat fluid distribution system including at least one
passage extending at least partially within the seat cushion.
11. The climate controlled seat assembly of claim 10, further
comprising a seat thermal module that is in fluid communication
with the at least one passage in the seat and comprising a
thermoelectric device and a fluid transfer device.
12. The climate controlled seat assembly of claim 11, wherein the
thermoelectric device and fluid transfer device of the headrest,
the seat thermal module and the backrest thermal module are
operatively connected to a common control unit.
13. The climate controlled seat assembly of claim 11, wherein the
thermoelectric device and fluid transfer device of the headrest,
the seat thermal module and the backrest thermal module are
configured such that they can be controlled by a common user input
and draw substantially the same current.
14. A climate controlled seat assembly comprising: a seat
comprising a seat cushion a backrest comprising a backrest cushion
with at least one first fluid passageway extending at least
partially therethrough; a headrest comprising a headrest cushion,
the headrest being positioned generally above the backrest, the
headrest comprising a headrest cushion with at least one fluid
passageway extending at least partially therethrough; a backrest
thermal module comprising a thermal electric device and a fluid
transfer device, the backrest thermal module in fluid communication
with the at least one fluid passageway in the backrest cushion; and
a headrest thermal module comprising a fluid transfer device, the
thermal module in fluid communication with the at least one fluid
passageway in the headrest cushion; wherein the backrest thermal
module and the headrest thermal module supported within the
backrest.
15. The climate controlled seat assembly of claim 14, wherein the
backrest thermal module and headrest thermal module are coupled to
a rear side of the backrest.
16. The climate controlled seat assembly of claim 14, wherein the
headrest thermal module is in fluid communication with the at least
one fluid passageway in the headrest cushion through a flexible
conduit.
17. The climate controlled seat assembly of claim 14, wherein the
headrest is coupled to the backrest through adjustable supports
such that the position of the headrest can be adjusted with respect
to the backrest.
18. The climate controlled seat assembly of claim 17, wherein the
headrest thermal module is in fluid communication with the at least
one fluid passageway in the headrest cushion through a flexible
conduit.
19. The climate controlled seat assembly of claim 18, wherein the
flexible conduit extends at least partially through the adjustable
supports.
20. The climate controlled seat assembly of claim 18, wherein the
flexible conduit extends along the adjustable supports.
21. The climate control seat assembly of claim 14, wherein the
backrest cushion includes a transition passage that places the
least one fluid passageway in the headrest in communication with
the headrest thermal module.
22. The climate controlled seat assembly of claim 14, wherein the
headrest includes at least one opening configured to transmit air
from the at least one fluid passageway to a front surface of the
headrest.
23. The climate controlled seat assembly of claim 14, further
comprising a thermal element that is disposed at least partially
between a covering of the backrest and the backrest cushion.
24. A climate controlled seat assembly comprising: a seat
comprising a seat cushion; a backrest comprising a backrest
cushion; a headrest comprising a headrest cushion that includes at
least one fluid passageway extending at least partially
therethrough; and a thermal module in fluid communication with the
at least one fluid passageway, the thermal module configured to
provide at least cooled fluid to the at least one fluid passageway.
Description
PRIORITY INFORMATION
[0001] This application is claims benefit under 35 U.S.C .sctn.
119(e) to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/681,359, filed
on May 16, 2005, the entirety of which is hereby incorporated by
reference herein and made a part of the present disclosure.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] 1. Field of the Invention
[0003] At least one of the inventions disclosed herein relates
generally to climate controlled seat technology. Particularly, at
least one of the inventions relates to providing and controlling
ventilated air provided to the headrest of a set.
[0004] 2. Description of the Related Art
[0005] Temperature modified air for environmental control of living
or working space is typically provided to relatively extensive
areas, such as entire buildings, selected offices, or suites of
rooms within a building. In the case of vehicles, such as
automobiles, the entire vehicle is typically cooled or heated as a
unit. There are many situations, however, in which more selective
or restrictive air temperature modification is desirable. For
example, it is often desirable to provide an individualized climate
control for an occupant seat so that substantially instantaneous
heating or cooling can be achieved. For example, an automotive
vehicle exposed to the summer weather, where the vehicle has been
parked in an unshaded area for a long period of time, can cause the
vehicle seat to be very hot and uncomfortable for the occupant for
some time after entering and using the vehicle, even with normal
air conditioning. Furthermore, even with normal air-conditioning,
on a hot day, the seat occupant's back and other pressure points
may remain sweaty while seated. In the winter time, it is highly
desirable to have the ability to quickly warm the seat of the
occupant to facilitate the occupant's comfort, especially where the
normal vehicle heater is unlikely to warm the vehicle's interior as
quickly.
[0006] For such reasons, there have long been various types of
individualized climate control systems for vehicle seats. Such
climate control systems typically include a distribution system
comprising a combination of channels and passages formed in the
cushion of the seat. Climate conditioned air is supplied to these
channels and passages by a climate control device. The climate
conditioned air flows through the channels and passages to cool or
heat the space adjacent the surface of the vehicle seat.
[0007] There are, however, problems that have been experienced with
existing climate control systems for seats. Most seat assemblies,
even those with climate control of the seat, do not address
providing climate controlled air to the headrest. Moreover, some
seat assemblies have a headrest supported above the seat back,
typically by adjustable posts. Thus, these headrests, usually
including a cushion, are not only physically distinct from the
cushion of the seat, but are also adjustable relative to the seat.
Thus, any climate controlled air provided to the headrest must
account for flexibility in connection of the air-providing
apparatus.
[0008] Thus there is a need for an improved climate control
apparatus for a climate control system for seats with
headrests.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0009] Accordingly, one aspect of the present invention comprises a
climate controlled seat assembly that includes a seat having a seat
cushion, a backrest having a backrest cushion, and a headrest
having a headrest cushion. The headrest is moveably mounted to the
backrest. The headrest cushion includes at least one fluid
passageway extending at least partially therethrough. A
thermoelectric device is in fluid communication with the at least
one fluid passageway. A fluid transfer device that is in fluid
communication with the at least one fluid passageway is coupled to
the headrest such that the thermal module moves with the headrest
as it is moved with respect to the backrest.
[0010] Another aspect of the present invention comprises a climate
controlled seat assembly that includes a seat having a seat
cushion, a backrest having a backrest cushion with at least one
first fluid passageway extending at least partially therethrough
and a headrest having a headrest cushion. The headrest is
positioned generally above the backrest. The headrest includes a
headrest cushion with at least one fluid passageway extending at
least partially therethrough. A backrest thermal module includes a
thermal electric device and a fluid transfer device. The backrest
thermal module is in fluid communication with the at least one
fluid passageway in the backrest cushion. A headrest thermal module
comprises a fluid transfer device. The thermal module is in fluid
communication with the at least one fluid passageway in the
headrest cushion. The backrest thermal module and the headrest
thermal module are supported within the backrest.
[0011] Another aspect of the present invention is a climate
controlled seat assembly that includes a seat having a seat
cushion, a backrest having a backrest cushion and a headrest having
a headrest cushion. The headrest cushion comprising at least one
fluid passageway extending at least partially therethrough. A
thermal module is in fluid communication with the at least one
fluid passageway. The thermal module is configured to cooled fluid
to the at least one fluid passageway.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0012] FIG. 1 is schematic illustration of one embodiment of a
vehicle seat assembly and climate control system;
[0013] FIG. 2 is schematic illustration of another embodiment of a
vehicle seat assembly and climate control system;
[0014] FIG. 3 is schematic illustration of another embodiment of a
vehicle seat assembly and climate control system;
[0015] FIG. 4 is schematic illustration of another embodiment of a
vehicle seat assembly and climate control system;
[0016] FIG. 5 is a top view of an embodiment of a conduit of a
vehicle seat assembly;
[0017] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a
headrest of a vehicle seat assembly;
[0018] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of a
headrest of a vehicle seat assembly;
[0019] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of a
headrest of a vehicle seat assembly; and
[0020] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of a
headrest of a vehicle seat assembly.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0021] FIG. 1 illustrates one embodiment of a ventilated seat
assembly 30. In the illustrated embodiment, the seat assembly 30
can include a seat 32 and a backrest 34. When the occupant sits in
the seat assembly 30, the occupant's back contacts a front surface
48 of the backrest portion 34 and the occupant's seat and legs
contact a top surface 50 of the seat portion 32. The surfaces 48,
50 cooperate to support the occupant in a sitting position. The
seat assembly 30 can be configured and sized to accommodate
occupants of various size and weight.
[0022] In the illustrated embodiment, the seat assembly 30 is
similar to a standard automotive seat. However, it should be
appreciated that certain features and aspects of the seat assembly
30 described herein may also be used in a variety of other
applications and environments. For example, certain features and
aspects of the seat assembly 30 may be adapted for use in other
vehicles, such as, for example, an airplane, a boat, or the like.
Further, certain features and aspects of the seat assembly 30 may
also be adapted for use in stationary environments, such as, for
example, a chair, a sofa, a theater seat, a mattress, and an office
seat that is used in a place of business and/or residence. Certain
features and aspects can also be adapted to wheelchairs and
assemblies that do not support a user in a seated position (e.g.,
beds).
[0023] With continued reference to FIG. 1, the backrest 34 has a
rear side 56, a bottom side 60 and a front side 64. Although not
illustrated, the backrest 34 can include a pair of sides for
providing lateral support to the occupant of the seat assembly 30.
The seat portion 32 can include a rear side 66, a top side 68 and a
bottom side 70. The seat portion 32 can also include a pair of
sides (not illustrated), which can extend from the rear side 66 and
the front side 64 for providing lateral support to the occupant of
the seat assembly 30. In one embodiment, the seat assembly 30 is
secured to a vehicle by attaching the bottom side 70 of the seat
portion 32 to the floor of a vehicle.
[0024] As shown, the seat assembly 30 can also include a headrest
202. The headrest 202 can preferably be supported by one or more
support members 204 above the backrest portion 34. In a preferred
embodiment, at least the height of the headrest 202 with respect to
the backrest 34 can be adjusted. In one embodiment, the height can
be adjusted by changing the length of the support members 204. Of
course, those of skill in the art will recognize that any of a
variety of adjusting mechanisms can be used to adjust the position
of the headrest 202 and backrest 34. In some embodiments, such
mechanisms can also adjust the angle of the headrest 202 with
respect to the backrest 34.
[0025] The backrest 34, seat portion 32 and headrest 202 are
generally formed by a cushion 72, which is covered with an
appropriate covering material 74 (e.g., upholstery). The cushion 72
is typically supported on a metallic frame (not shown). In some
embodiments, springs may be positioned between the frame and the
cushion 72. The frame provides the seat assembly 30 with structural
support while the cushion 72 provides a soft seating surface. The
covering material 74 provides an aesthetic appearance and soft feel
to the surface of the seat assembly 30. The cushion 72 can be a
typical automotive seat cushion foam or other types of materials
with suitable characteristics for providing support to an occupant.
Such materials include, but are not limited to, closed or
open-celled foam.
[0026] With continued reference to FIG. 1, the backrest 34, seat 32
and the headrest 202 can include fluid distribution systems 76A,
76B, 76C for distributing fluid to/from the front surfaces 48, 50,
206 of backrest 34, seat 32 and the headrest 202. In general, the
fluid distribution systems 76A, 76B, 76C comprises inlet passages
78A, 78B, 78C from the rear or bottom sides of the seat cushion 72.
The fluid distribution systems 76A, 76B, 76C also include at least
one, and often, a plurality of channels 80A, 80B, 80C, which extend
from the inlet passages 78A, 78B, 78C generally parallel to the
front and top surfaces 48, 50, 206 of the seat assembly 34.
[0027] As mentioned above, the cushion 72 may be formed from a
typical automotive cushion material, such as, for example, an open
or closed cell foam. In one embodiment, the cushion 72 is made of
foam that is pre-molded to form the passages 78A, 78B, 78C and/or
the channels 80A, 80B, 80C. In another embodiment, the passages
78A, 78B, 78C and/or the channels 80A, 80B, 80C can be formed by
cutting foam out of the seat cushion 72.
[0028] As will be described in more detail below, the channels 80A,
80B, 80C can be covered by a scrim to define distribution passages
82A, 82B, 82C for transporting air through the seat assembly 30.
The scrim can includes one or more openings for delivering air to
and/or from the distribution passages 82A, 82B, 82C. The scrim can
be formed of a material similar to the cushion 72. In one
embodiment, the scrim can be attached to the cushion 72 in a manner
that limits leakage between the scrim and cushion 72 thereby
directing the flow of air through the openings. In one embodiment,
an adhesive is used to attach the scrimA to the cushion 72. In
other embodiments, a heat stake or fasteners can be used.
[0029] A distribution layer can be disposed between the scrim and
the seat covering. The distribution layer can spread the air
flowing through the openings along the lower surface of the
covering. To permit airflow, the covering may be formed from an
air-permeable material. For example, in one embodiment, the
covering comprises an air-permeable fabric made of natural and/or
synthetic fibers. In another embodiment, the covering is formed
from a leather, or leather-like material that is provided with
small openings or apertures.
[0030] The fluid modules 92A, 92B, 92C can be generally configured
to provide condition (e.g., heated and/or cooled) to the
distribution system 76C. In other embodiments, the modules 92A,
92B, 92C can be used to remove and/or provide unconditioned air to
the passages 82A, 82B, 82C.
[0031] With continued reference to FIG. 1, in a preferred
embodiment, the fluid modules 92A, 92B, 92C can include a
thermoelectric device 94A, 94B 94C for conditioning (e.g.,
selectively healing or cooling) the fluid flowing through the
device 92A, 92B, 92C. A preferred thermoelectric device 94A, 94B,
94C is a Peltier thermoelectric module. The illustrated fluid
modules 92A, 92B, 92C can preferably also include a main heat
exchanger 96A, 96B, 96C for transferring or removing thermal energy
from the fluid flowing through the modules 92A, 92B, 92C and to the
distribution systems 76A, 76B, 76C. Such fluid can be transferred
to the distribution system 76A, 76B, 76C through conduits 98A, 98B,
98C. In the illustrated embodiments, the modules 92A, 92B, 92C can
also include a waste heat exchanger 100A, 100B, 100C that extends
from the thermoelectric device 94A, 94B, 94C generally opposite the
main heat exchanger 96A, 96B, 96C such that the waste heat
exchanger 100A, 100B, 100C can transfer and/or remove heat to/from
ambient air that is not supplied to the distribution system 76A,
76B, 76C. A pumping device 102A, 102B, 102C can preferably be
associated with the fluid module 92A, 92B, 92C for directing fluid
over the main and/or waste heat exchangers 96A, 96B, 96C, 100A,
100B, 100C. In one embodiment, the pumping device 102A, 102B, 102C
comprises a radial fan and/or an axial fan positioned within a
housing.
[0032] Each fluid module 92A, 92B, 92C can be connected to the
control unit 110. The control unit 110 can be configured to control
any fluid module 92A, 92B, 92C independently of any other fluid
module. In some embodiments, the control unit 110 senses at least
one state of the fluid modules 92A, 92B, 92C and uses feedback in
operating the fluid modules 92A, 92B, 92C.
[0033] The control module 110 optionally can also be configured to
receive a signal from a vehicle control device that can indicate
whether the vehicle's ignition has been turned on. In this manner,
the seat control module 110 can be configured to allow operation of
the system only if the vehicle's engine is running. In one
embodiment, the control unit 110 received a control signal from a
user operated control device and/or another component of the
vehicle operating system. The control unit 110 uses the control
signal to drive and control the fluid modules 92A, 92B, 92C. In one
embodiment, the control unit can provide a substantially constant
current to each of the fluid modules 92A, 92B, 92C.
[0034] Various components can be described as being "operatively
connected" to the control unit 110. It should be appreciated that
this is a broad term that includes physical connections (e.g.,
electrical wires or hard wire circuits) and non-physical
connections (e.g., radio or infrared signals). It should also be
appreciated that "operatively connected" includes direct
connections and indirect connections (e.g., through additional
intermediate device(s)).
[0035] It should be appreciated that the fluid modules 92A, 92B,
92C described above represent only one exemplary embodiment of a
device that may be used to at least cool, and in other embodiments,
also heat and/or move air supplied to the distribution systems 76A,
76B, 76C. Other embodiments, for example, can utilize resistant
heaters, refrigeration systems etc.
[0036] The pumping device 102A, 102B, 102C and the fluid module
92A, 92B, 92C can preferably be configured to fit entirely within,
partially within or along the headrest 202. As such, it can be
preferred that the fluid module 92C and pumping device 102 are
compact. Therefore, in a preferred embodiment, the pumping device
can comprise an electrical radial fan. In other embodiments, the
pumping device can comprise other types of electrical fans or
blowers, such as, for example, an axial blower.
[0037] With continued reference to FIG. 1, in the illustrated
embodiment, the seat assembly includes the headrest 202 with the
fluid module 92C associated with the headrest 202. In one
embodiment, the headrest fluid module 92C can be coupled to the
headrest 202 such that it moves with the headrest 202 as it is
adjusted. For example, in certain embodiments, the headrest 202 is
configured to be moved at least vertically with respect to the
backrest 34. In such an embodiment, the headrest fluid module 92C
can be coupled to the rear side 57 of the headrest 202. In another
embodiment, the headrest fluid module 92C can be positioned at
least partially within the headrest 202.
[0038] FIG. 2 illustrates a modified illustrated embodiment of a
seat assembly 300. This embodiment also includes a headrest 202,
seat 32 and backrest 34 as described above. The headrest 202 can
also include a distribution system 76C as described above. In this
embodiment, a connection passage 302 can be provided to place the
distribution system 76C for the headrest in communication with the
fluid module 92A for the backrest 34. In the illustrated
embodiment, the connection passage 302 can extend at least
partially through the backrest 34 and through the support member
204. In a modified embodiment, the connection passage can extend
further (e.g., into the seat 32) such that it is connected to the
fluid module 92B for the seat 32 or another portion of the seat
assembly 300.
[0039] With continued reference to FIG. 2, the dashed lines
indicated by the reference number 320 illustrate another embodiment
in which a connection passage 320 can connect the supply passage
98A to the distribution system 76C. The connection passage 320 can
extend outside and/or along the backrest 34.
[0040] Thus, at least one embodiment can have a ventilated backrest
202 comprising a distribution system 76C, wherein fluid is supplied
to the headrest 202 from fluid communication with a fluid conduit
78A disposed within the backrest 34. In the illustrated embodiment,
an alternative passage 302 for fluid communication is shown. As can
be seen, fluid can be supplied to the headrest 202 by the fluid
module 92A associated with the backrest 34, which also supplies
fluid to the fluid distribution system 76A for the backrest.
[0041] FIG. 3 illustrates yet another embodiment of ventilated seat
assembly 400. In this embodiment, a connection passage 402 can
extend through, near or along the support member 204 and through
the backrest 34. The fluid module 92C for the headrest 202 can be
associated with the backrest 34 (e.g., coupled or supported on the
backrest or positioned partially therein). Although the passage 402
is illustrated as extending through the backrest 34, it should be
appreciated that all or a portion of the passage 402 can extend
outside the backrest 34. Additionally, at least a portion of the
fluid passage 402 can extend through the backrest 34, while not
extending near or along the support member 204.
[0042] FIG. 4 illustrates yet another embodiment of ventilated seat
assembly 500. In this embodiment, a single fluid module 92A can
remove or supply conditioned (e.g., cooled or cooled/heated) air to
the headrest 202, the backrest 34 and the seat 32. Connection
passages 502A-C can be provided for connecting the fluid module 92
to the distribution passages 76A, 76B, 76C for the backrest 34, the
seat 32 and the headrest 202. The passages can be formed entirely
within the seat assembly, partially within the seat assembly or
entirely outside the seat assembly or any combination thereof. In
addition, the distribution passages 76A, 76B, 76C are illustrated
as capable of being in parallel with each other with respect to the
fluid module 92. However, in some embodiments, two or more of these
distribution passages 76A, 76B, 76C can be arranged in series with
respect to the fluid module 92.
[0043] Thus, more than one fluid distribution system 76A, 76B, 76C
can receive air from the same fluid module 92. As can be seen, in
some embodiments, a single fluid module 92A can supply heated,
cooled, or unconditioned air to, or withdraw air from, all of the
fluid distribution systems 76A, 76B, 76C.
[0044] As is apparent from the description above, the above
described embodiments can be configured to provided conditioned,
and in particular, cooled air to the headrest 202 of the seat
assembly. This is particularly advantageous because the cooling
sensation can be more effectively perceived by the user when it is
directed towards the neck and head area. For example, because of
the large arteries in the back of the head, the cooling effect is
often felt over the entire body of the user. Thus, by directing
cool air in particular toward the user's head and neck, a more
effective cooling sensation can be felt by the user as compared to
the same level of cooling in the seat and backrest.
[0045] At least a part of the connecting members between a fluid
module 92 and a fluid distribution system 82 can comprise a
flexible or articulable conduit, as described below. In particular,
in the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 2, 3 and 4, at least a
portion of the passages supplying or removing air from the headrest
202 can be flexible to accommodate the adjustment of the position
of the headrest 202 with respect to the backrest 34. For example,
it can be advantageous to make the portion of the passage extending
between the headrest 202 and the backrest 34 flexible (e.g., a
bellow as described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/973,947,
filed Oct. 25, 2004, which is hereby expressly incorporated by
reference herein). It should also be appreciated that in the
embodiments in which the supply passage extends through the support
member 204 it can be advantages to use a flexible conduit. Such a
flexible conduit can also be used in embodiments in which the
supply passage extends outside (e.g., along) the support member
204.
[0046] FIG. 5 illustrates one embodiment of such a flexible
conduit. The conduit 1096 can include a body 1098 having a first,
inlet end 1100 and a second, outlet end 1102. The inlet end 1100
can form a first or inlet port 1104 and the outlet end 1102 can
form a second or outlet port 1106. A fluid passage (not shown) can
be formed by an inner surface of the body 1098. The fluid passage
1108 can extend from an inlet opening formed by the inlet port 1104
and an outlet opening formed by the outlet port 1106.
[0047] To facilitate such movement, at least a portion of the body
1098 can be flexible and/or capable of articulated movement. In
addition, it is also advantageous that the length of the body 1098
can be lengthened or shortened. Accordingly, in the illustrated
embodiment, the body 1098 can be formed, at least in part, from a
flexible material such as, for example, rubber, other elastomers,
flexible thermoplastics, and the like. During movement, it can be
advantageous that the cross-sectional area of the passage 1108 not
be significantly reduced (e.g., by crimping or buckling).
Accordingly, in the illustrated embodiment, the body 1098 can have
a bellow-type configuration comprising a plurality of folds 1116.
In this manner, as the conduit 1096 bends the inner radius can
shorten while the outer radius can lengthen to substantially
preserve the cross-sectional area of the fluid passage 1108. In
addition, the length of the conduit 1096 can be increased or
decreased as the bellows expand or contract without significantly
compromising the fluid passage 1108.
[0048] Of course, those of skill in the art will recognize other
arrangements for facilitating one or more of the degrees of
movement described above. Such arrangements include, but are not
limited, to various arrangements of telescoping members, braided
conduits, flexible joints and the like.
[0049] With continued reference to FIGS. 5-7, the inlet and outlet
ends 1100, 1102 of the conduit 1096 can preferably be formed of a
harder material as compared to the flexible portions therebetween.
For example, in one embodiment, the inlet and outlet ends 1100,
1102 can be formed from a substantially rigid plastic while the
portions of the conduit 1096 extending between the ends 100, 102
can be formed from a flexible material (e.g., rubber). The inlet
and outlet ends 1100, 1102 can be formed from separate components
that are attached to the remaining portions using adhesives, heat
stakes, fasteners, etc. or by over-molding such portions.
[0050] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of the
headrest 202, taken along line 6-6 in FIG. 1. FIGS. 7, 8, and 9 are
cross-sectional views of other embodiments of headrests 202, taken
along a similar line for each embodiment. As will be explained
below, in these embodiments, the headrest 202 includes one or more
thermal elements 160, which can be used to thermally condition
(e.g., heat) air flowing through the distribution system 76C. For
the sake of brevity, the thermal elements 160 and other aspects of
the distribution system 76C will be described with respect to the
headrest 202. However, it will be appreciated that these features
and aspects can be extended to the distribution systems 76A, 76B of
backrest 34 and seat 32.
[0051] As mentioned above, the headrest portion 202 can generally
be formed by a cushion 72, which can be covered with an appropriate
covering material 74 (e.g., upholstery, leather or vinyl). The
cushion 72 can be usually supported on a metallic or plastic frame
(not shown). In some embodiments, springs can be positioned between
the frame and the cushion 72. The frame can provide the headrest
202 with structural support while the cushion 72 provides a soft
surface for resting or leaning the occupant's head. The covering
material 74 provides an aesthetic appearance and soft feel to the
surface of the headrest 202.
[0052] The distribution system 76C can be formed with or without an
insert 150. In some embodiments, the insert 150 in the shape of
formed channels can be disposed on the surface of the cushion 72 of
the headrest 202, but beneath the covering material 74. Thus,
conditioned air can be directed to the surface of the headrest 202
through the channels of the insert 150 as an alternative to the
embodiments described below. In one embodiment, the insert 150 is
made of a material that is more impermeable to air as compared to
the cushion 72. For example, in one embodiment, the insert 150
comprises closed cell foam or a plastic while the cushion 72
comprises an open cell foam. The insert 150 can also include a
flanged portion 158, which extends generally parallel to a top
surface of the cushion 72.
[0053] With continued reference to FIG. 6, a cover or scrim 81 can
be positioned generally over the insert 150 to define distribution
passages 82C for transporting air through the headrest 202. The
scrim 81 can include one or more openings 84 for transporting air
to and/or from the distribution passages 82C and preferably can
provide structural support to prevent or reduce the seat cover 74
from depressing into the passages 82C. The scrim 81 preferably can
include one or more thermal elements 160, which can preferably be
positioned within the scrim 81 generally adjacent the one or more
openings 84 and are configured to effect a temperature change in
the space adjacent the headrest 202. As will be explained in more
detail below, in the illustrated embodiment, the thermal elements
160 are used to heat the air transported through the seat assembly
and/or heat the portions of the seat assembly adjacent the thermal
elements 160. In a modified embodiment, the thermal elements 160
can comprise substantially continuous pad and/or a pad with a
plurality of openings that generally replaces or lies over the
scrim 81.
[0054] The thermal elements 160 may comprise any of variety of
devices for causing a temperature change, such as, for example,
resistive heaters (e.g., resistive wires, carbon fiber based
heating elements, and carbon impregnated sheets), chemical-reaction
heaters, heat exchanges and/or Peltier thermoelectric devices. The
thermal elements 160 may be used in combination with fabrics, foams
etc. to form the scrim 81. In other embodiments, the thermal
elements 160 can be coupled to or positioned generally near the
scrim 81. In the illustrated embodiment, the scrim 81 can be
attached to the flange 158 in a manner that limits leakage between
the scrim 81 and the insert 150, thereby directing the flow of air
through the openings 84. In some embodiments, an adhesive can be
used to attach the scrim 81 to the insert 150. In other
embodiments, a heat stake or fasteners can be used.
[0055] With continued reference to FIG. 6, an optional distribution
layer 86 can be disposed between the scrim 81 and the seat covering
74. The distribution layer 86 can spread the air flowing through
the openings 84 along the lower surface of the covering 74. To
permit airflow between the distribution layer 86 and the spaces
proximal to the front surface of the headrest 202, the covering 74
can be formed from an air-permeable material. For example, in at
least one embodiment, the covering 74 can comprise an air-permeable
fabric made of natural and/or synthetic fibers. In other
embodiments, the covering 74 is formed from a leather, or
leather-like material that can be provided with small openings or
apertures. In other embodiments, the distribution layer 86 can be
omitted or combined with the seat covering 74 and/or the scrim 81.
The scrim 81 can be configured to allow for the passage of air. In
the illustrated embodiment, this can be accomplished by providing
the scrim 81 with small openings or apertures. In other
embodiments, the scrim 81 itself and/or the thermal elements 160
may be generally air-permeable.
[0056] FIG. 7 illustrates a modified embodiment of the distribution
system 76C' for the headrest 202. As in the previous embodiment,
the distribution system 76C' comprises an inlet passage 78C that
extends from the rear side of the headrest 202 to the front side
206 of the headrest cushion 72. As with the distribution system 76C
described above, the distribution system 76C' also can include at
least one, and often, a plurality of channels 80C, which extend
from the inlet passage 78C. These channels 80C can be configured as
described above.
[0057] In the distribution system 76C', the portion of the headrest
cushion 72 that forms the channels 80C can preferably be treated
and/or covered with a coating, skin or other material configured
such that air flowing through the channels 80C does not
significantly seep into the headrest cushion 72. In other
embodiments, the headrest cushion 72 can be formed from a dense
foam, such as one that does not allow for significant seepage of
air through the foam. In addition to or in the alternative, the
distribution system 76C' can include an insert or liner as
described above with reference to FIG. 6.
[0058] The channels 80C are covered by the scrim or cover 81 to
define distribution passages 82C, as described above, for
transporting air through the headrest 202. The scrim 81 can
preferably be configured as described above. Accordingly, the scrim
81 can include thermal elements 160 and one or more openings 84 for
delivering air to and/or from the distribution passages 82C. As
described above, the scrim 81 can preferably be attached to the
headrest cushion 72 in a manner that limits leakage between the
scrim 81 and headrest cushion 72. A distribution layer 86 can be
optionally disposed between the scrim 81 and the seat covering 74.
As mentioned above, in some embodiments, the distribution layer 86
can be omitted or combined with the headrest covering 74 and/or the
scrim 81. In addition, as with the headrest covering 74, the scrim
81 itself can be configured such that it can be generally
air-permeable and/or provided with small openings or apertures 8B
as shown in the illustrated embodiment.
[0059] The thermal elements 160 can be used to change the
temperature (e.g., increase) in the space or portions of the
headrest adjacent the occupant of the seat assembly 200. The
thermal elements 160 can preferably be used in combination with
fluid flow provided through the distribution system 76C. As
explained below, when used in combination with fluid flow, the air
can be conditioned or unconditioned before the thermal elements 160
changes its temperature. For example, in some embodiments, air
(which can be heated) can be delivered to the distribution passages
82C through the inlet passages 78C. The air then flows through the
openings 84 and into the distribution layers 86. The air is then
directed through the covering 74 to a space adjacent to the front
surface of the headrest 202. In some embodiments, the climate
control system 96C can be used to remove air, which is adjacent to
the front surface of the headrest 202. In such embodiments, the air
can be withdrawn through the covering 74 and into the distribution
layers 86. The air can be then withdrawn through the openings 84
into the distribution passages 82C and through the inlet passage
78C. Thus, the air withdrawn and/or supplied through the
distribution systems 76C can be used to supplement and/or enhance
the thermal elements 160. In some embodiments, the thermal elements
160 provide heat to the occupant via conduction through the
covering 74 and other layers of material. In such embodiments, the
fluid flow can enhance the thermal elements 160 by also
transferring the heat generated by the thermal elements 160 to the
occupant via convection and/or conduction.
[0060] Given the goal of distributing air through the cushion 72
and along the covering 74, those of skill in the art will recognize
that the distribution systems 76C for the headrest 202 can be
modified in several different manners. For example, the shape
and/or number of channels 80C and/or openings 84 can be modified.
In other embodiments, the scrim 81 and/or distribution passages 82C
can be combined and/or replaced with other components configured
for similar functions. In other embodiments, the distribution
systems 76A, 76B, 76B of the backrest 34, seat 32 and headrest 202
or portions thereof may be combined and/or interchanged with each
other.
[0061] FIGS. 8 and 9 illustrate modified embodiments of the
distribution systems 76C. In FIGS. 8 and 9, elements similar to
those shown in FIGS. 6 and 7 are designated with the same reference
numbers used in FIGS. 6 and 7. In addition, only certain components
of the climate control system will be described in detail below.
For those components not described in detail, reference may be made
to the detailed description above.
[0062] With respect to FIG. 7, in this embodiment, the thermal
element 160 for the headrest 202 can form at least in part a
portion of the insert 150, which can form at least partially the
distribution passage 82C. The air flowing through the distribution
passage can be heated by the thermal element 160 and then be
delivered to the occupant through the openings 84. In a modified
embodiment, the thermal element 160 can be positioned along the
inner or outer surface of the insert 150.
[0063] With respect to FIG. 9, the thermal elements 160 can line
and/or form part of the channels 80C in the headrest cushion 72.
Thus, the thermal elements 160 can heat the air flowing through the
passages 82C. In some embodiments, the thermal elements 160 can be
positioned within the cushion 72.
[0064] Accordingly, with the thermal elements 160 generally
positioned within the cushion 72 between the seat cover 74 and the
front side and the rear (or bottom) of the respected seat component
(i.e. the headrest 202, backrest 34, seat 32), the thermal elements
160 can heat the air delivered by the fluid module. It should be
appreciated that in some embodiments, one or more thermal elements
(not shown) can be provided near or adjacent the front or top
surfaces of the headrest 202, backrest 34, seat 32. In such
embodiments, the thermal elements can be provided within the scrim
81 as described above with reference to FIGS. 6 and 7. With
reference back to FIG. 1, as shown, the backrest 34, seat 32, and
headrest 202 can each include one or more thermal elements 160A,
160B, 160C arranged as described above. In such embodiments, the
thermal modules 92A, 92B, 92C can be configured to deliver
unconditioned air to the seat assembly. In other embodiments,
thermal modules 92A, 92B, 92C can be configured to deliver cooled
and/or heated air to the seat assembly. The thermal elements 160A,
160B, 160C can be operatively connected to the control unit 110 or
another separate control unit for controlling their operation.
[0065] With continued reference to FIG. 1, in one embodiment, the
backrest 34 can include an electrical connector 205. The electrical
connector 205 can be positioned on the backrest 34, for example, on
an upper or top portion of the backrest 34. The electrical
connector 205 can be configured to be such a quick connection can
be made between the controller 110, for example, supported on the
backrest 34 and the thermal module 92C and/or heating element 160C.
In this manner, the seat assembly 30 can be made in a modular
format in which the ventilated headrest 202 is an optional feature.
That is, one style of seat with a standard backrest 34 and seat 32
can be used. The headrest 202 can include the distribution system
76 described above and be connected through the electrical
connector 202 or the headrest can be a standard headrest with out a
thermal module or ventilation system.
[0066] Although this invention has been disclosed in the context of
certain preferred embodiments and examples, it will be understood
by those skilled in the art that the present invention extends
beyond the specifically disclosed embodiments to other alternative
embodiments and/or uses of the invention and obvious modifications
and equivalents thereof. In addition, while a number of variations
of the invention have been shown and described in detail, other
modifications, which are within the scope of this invention, will
be readily apparent to those of skill in the art based upon this
disclosure. It is also contemplated that various combinations or
subcombinations of the specific features and aspects of the
embodiments may be made and still fall within the scope of the
invention. Accordingly, it should be understood that various
features and aspects of the disclosed embodiments can be combine
with or substituted for one another in order to form varying modes
of the disclosed invention. Thus, it is intended that the scope of
the present invention herein disclosed should not be limited by the
particular disclosed embodiments described above, but should be
determined only by a fair reading of the claims that follow.
* * * * *