U.S. patent application number 14/046448 was filed with the patent office on 2014-05-15 for convective heating device.
This patent application is currently assigned to Gentherm Incorporated. The applicant listed for this patent is Gentherm Incorporated. Invention is credited to Ryan Walsh.
Application Number | 20140131343 14/046448 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 42396010 |
Filed Date | 2014-05-15 |
United States Patent
Application |
20140131343 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Walsh; Ryan |
May 15, 2014 |
CONVECTIVE HEATING DEVICE
Abstract
A heating device comprises a heater having a first surface and a
second surface, with the second surface being generally opposite of
the first surface. The heater is configured to receive an
electrical current and convert it to heat. The heating device
additionally includes at least one heat transfer assembly
positioned along the first and/or second surface of the heater. In
one embodiment, the heat transfer assembly includes a plurality of
fins that generally define a plurality of fin spaces through which
fluids may pass. In some arrangements, the heating device comprises
an outer housing that at least partially surrounds the heater and
one or more of the heat transfer assemblies. Heat generated by the
heater is transferred to the fins of the heat transfer assembly. In
addition, fluids passing through the fin spaces are selectively
heated when electrical current is provided to the heater.
Inventors: |
Walsh; Ryan; (Los Angeles,
CA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Gentherm Incorporated |
Northville |
MI |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
Gentherm Incorporated
Northville
MI
|
Family ID: |
42396010 |
Appl. No.: |
14/046448 |
Filed: |
October 4, 2013 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
12695602 |
Jan 28, 2010 |
8575518 |
|
|
14046448 |
|
|
|
|
61148019 |
Jan 28, 2009 |
|
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Current U.S.
Class: |
219/217 ;
392/491 |
Current CPC
Class: |
F24H 3/002 20130101;
F24H 3/0482 20130101; F28F 3/02 20130101; F24H 3/0405 20130101;
F24H 9/2071 20130101; F28D 1/024 20130101; F28F 3/025 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
219/217 ;
392/491 |
International
Class: |
F24H 3/04 20060101
F24H003/04 |
Claims
1-10. (canceled)
11. A heating device for heating fluid, comprising: a first heat
transfer assembly comprising a plurality of heat transfer members,
the heat transfer members defining a plurality of spaces through
which fluid is selectively passed; a base having a first side and a
second side, said first side being generally opposite of said
second side, wherein the base comprises a first end and a second
end, said first end being located opposite of said second end;
wherein the plurality of heat transfer members extend from the
first side of the base; at least one electrical conducting member
positioned along at least a portion of the second side of the base,
the at least one electrical conducting member extending at least
partially from the first end to the second end of the base, wherein
the at least one electrical conducting member extending at least
partially along or near a periphery of the base; wherein the at
least one electrical conducting member is configured to receive
electrical current to produce heat; an outer housing at least
partially surrounding the first heat transfer assembly and the
base, wherein said outer housing defines at least one partially
enclosed space through which fluid is selectively passed; wherein
at least a portion of heat generated by electorally energizing the
at least one electrical conducting member is transferred to the
plurality of heat transfer members of the first heat transfer
assembly; and wherein heat is transferred to fluid directed through
the spaces within the at least one partially enclosed space when
electrical current is provided to the heating device.
12. The heating device of claim 11, wherein heat transfer members
comprise fins.
13. The heating device of claim 11, wherein the first heat transfer
assembly and the at least one electrical conducting member comprise
a generally unitary structure.
14. The heating device of claim 11, wherein the at least one
electrical conducting member is formed directly on the base of the
first heat transfer assembly.
15. The heating device of claim 11, wherein the at least one
electrical conducting member is part of a heater secured to the
base of the first heat transfer assembly.
16. The heating device of claim 15, wherein the heater comprises a
thick film heater.
17. The heating device of claim 11, wherein the at least one
electrical conducting member comprises a conductive material
positioned on the base of the first heat transfer assembly.
18. The heating device of claim 11, further comprising a second
heat transfer assembly, the second heat transfer assembly extending
in a direction generally away from the second side of the base.
19. The heating device of claim 15, wherein the heater and the
first heat transfer assembly are attached using adhesives or
thermal grease.
20. The heating device of claim 15, wherein the heater and the
first heat transfer assembly are attached using at least one
mechanical fastener.
21. The heating device of claim 11, wherein a Temperature
Coefficient of Resistance (TCR) of the at least one electrical
conducting member is between about 1,500 and 3,500 ppm/.degree.
C.
22. A seating assembly comprising a support member, the support
member comprising at least one interior fluid passageway, wherein
the at least one fluid passageway is in fluid communication with a
heating device of claim 11 so as to selectively provide
convectively heated air toward an upper surface of the seating
assembly.
23. The seating assembly of claim 22, wherein the seating assembly
comprises a seat or a bed.
24. A heating device for heating fluid, comprising: a heater
configured to receive an electrical current to produce heat; at
least one heat transfer assembly adjacent the heater, the heat
transfer assembly comprising a plurality of heat transfer members,
wherein the heat transfer members define a plurality of spaces
through which fluid may pass; at least one electrically conductive
member positioned on or within the heater; wherein the at least one
electrically conductive member terminates at or near one end of the
heater, and wherein the at least one electrically conductive member
is configured to selectively produce heat when electrically
energized; and an outer housing at least partially surrounding the
heater and the at least one heat transfer assembly; wherein heat
generated by the heater is transferred to the at least one heat
transfer assembly; and wherein fluid passing through the spaces is
selectively heated when electrical current is provided to the
heater.
25. The heating device of claim 24, wherein the heat transfer
members comprise fins.
26. A seating assembly comprising a support member with at least
one fluid passageway, wherein the at least one fluid passageway is
in fluid communication with a heating device of claim 24 so as to
selectively provide convectively heated air toward a seated
occupant of the seating assembly.
27. The seating assembly of claim 26, wherein the seating assembly
comprises a seat or a bed.
28. A method for heating fluid, comprising electrically activating
a heating device, the heating device comprising a heater configured
to receive an electrical current to produce heat; wherein the
heating device further comprises at least one heat transfer
assembly adjacent the heater, the heat transfer assembly comprising
a plurality of heat transfer members, wherein the heat transfer
members define a plurality of spaces through which fluid may pass;
wherein the heating device additionally comprises at least one
electrically conductive member positioned on or within the heater
and an outer housing at least partially surrounding the heater and
the at least one heat transfer assembly; wherein electrically
activating the heating device comprises providing electrical
current to the at least one electrically conductive member, wherein
upon electrical activation, the at least one electrically
conductive member produces heat; wherein heat generated by the
heater is transferred to the at least one heat transfer assembly;
and wherein fluid passing through the spaces is selectively heated
when electrical current is provided to the heater.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation application of U.S.
patent application Ser. No. 12/695,602 filed Jan. 28, 2010, which
claims the priority benefit under 35 U.S.C. .sctn.119(e) of U.S.
Provisional Patent Application No. 61/148,019, filed Jan. 28, 2009,
the entireties of both of which are hereby incorporated by
reference herein.
BACKGROUND
[0002] 1. Field of the Inventions
[0003] This application generally relates to heating devices and
systems, and more specifically, to convective heating devices and
systems configured for use in climate controlled (e.g., heated,
ventilated, etc.) seating assemblies.
[0004] 2. Description of the Related Art
[0005] Temperature modified air for environmental control of an
automobile, other vehicles or any other living or working space is
typically provided to relatively extensive areas, such as an entire
automobile interior, selected offices or suites of rooms within a
building (e.g., houses, hospitals, office buildings, etc.) and the
like. In the case of enclosed areas, such as automobiles, trains,
airplanes, other vehicles, homes, offices, hospitals, other medical
facilities, libraries and the like, the interior space is typically
heated and/or cooled 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 a seat assembly so that
substantially instantaneous heating or cooling can be achieved. For
example, a vehicle seat, chair or other seat assembly situated in a
cold environment can be uncomfortable to the occupant. Furthermore,
even in conjunction with other heating methods, it may be desirable
to quickly warm the seat to enhance the occupant's comfort,
especially where other heating units (e.g., automobile's
temperature control system, home's central heater, etc.) take a
relatively long time to warm the ambient air. Therefore, a need
exists to provide a heating system to selectively heat one or more
portions of a climate-controlled vehicle seat, bed, other seat
assembly and/or other item or device.
SUMMARY
[0006] According to some embodiments of the present application, a
heating device comprises a heater having a first surface and a
second surface, with the second surface being generally opposite
the first surface. The heater is configured to receive an
electrical current and convert it to heat. The heating device
additionally includes at least one heat transfer assembly
positioned along the first and/or second surface of the heater. In
one embodiment, the heat transfer assembly includes a plurality of
fins that generally define a plurality of fin spaces therebetween
through which fluids may pass. In some arrangements, the heating
device comprises an outer housing that at least partially surrounds
the heater and one or more of the heat transfer assemblies. Heat
generated by the heater is transferred to the fins of the heat
transfer assembly. In addition, fluids passing through the fin
spaces are selectively heated when electrical current is provided
to the heater.
[0007] In some embodiments, the heating device further includes a
connector that is in electrical communication with the conductive
leads of the heater. In some embodiments, the connector is
configured to connect to a coupling for delivering electrical
current to the heater. In other arrangements, the heat transfer
assembly comprises a ceramic, metal and/or any other material. In
one embodiment, the heater comprises a resistive heater, a
thick-film heater and/or any other type of heater. In other
embodiments, the outer housing comprises foam (e.g., Volara.RTM.),
fiberglass, other polymeric materials and/or the like.
[0008] In other configurations, the heating device further includes
a second heat transfer assembly, so that the heater includes a heat
transfer assembly on both of its surfaces. According to some
embodiments, the heater and one or more heat transfer assemblies
are secured to each other using one or more clips, screws, bolts,
other mechanical fasteners, adhesives and/or the like. In other
arrangements, the heater and at least one heat transfer assembly
form a unitary structure. In one embodiment, the heater is
generally disposed along a base of the heat transfer assembly.
[0009] According to some embodiments, a convective heating device
for thermally conditioning a fluid includes a heat transfer
assembly having a base. Such a base can include a first side and a
second side generally opposite the first side. The first side
includes a plurality of fins or other heat transfer members that
generally define a plurality of fin spaces therebetween through
which a fluid may pass. The fins or other heat transfer members can
have generally vertical orientation and may attach to the base
along one end. In other arrangements, the fins comprise a folded
design, with adjacent fins being parallel or non-parallel with each
other. The heating device further includes at least one
electrically conductive member configured to receive an electrical
current and convert such current to heat. In some embodiments, the
heater is positioned along the second side of the base of the heat
transfer assembly such that the heat transfer assembly and the
heater comprise a generally unitary structure. In some
configurations, heat generated by the heater is transferred to the
fins of the heat transfer assembly. Air or other fluids passing
through the fin spaces can be selectively heated when electrical
current is provided to the heater.
[0010] In certain embodiments, the convective heating device
further includes a housing adapted to at least partially surround
the heat transfer assembly and the heater. In other arrangements,
the heat transfer assembly comprises ceramic, metal or any another
material having favorable heat conductive properties. In one
embodiment, the convective heating device additionally comprises a
connector in electrical communication with at least one
electrically conductive member of the heater. In some arrangements,
such a connector is configured to connect to a coupling for
delivering electrical current to the heating device.
[0011] According to some embodiments of the present application, a
climate control system for a seating assembly comprises a heating
device having a heater. The heater includes a first surface and a
second surface generally opposite of the first surface. Further,
the heater is configured to receive an electrical current and
convert such current to heat. The heating device further comprises
at least one heat transfer assembly positioned along the first
and/or second surface of the heater. The heat transfer assembly
includes a plurality of fins that define a plurality of fin spaces
therebetween through which fluids may be directed. In some
arrangements, the heating device additionally includes an outer
housing that at least partially surrounds the heater and one or
more heat transfer assemblies. Heat generated by the heater is
transferred to the fins of the heat transfer assembly, and fluids
passing through the fin spaces can be selectively heated when
electrical current is provided to the heater. The climate control
system further includes a fluid transfer device configured to move
fluids through the heating device and an outlet conduit located
downstream of the heating device and the fluid transfer device. In
some embodiments, the outlet conduit is configured to deliver
thermally conditioned fluid to a seating assembly.
[0012] In some embodiments, the climate control system is
configured for use in a vehicle seat, an office chair, a bed, a
sofa, a wheelchair or any other seating device. In one arrangement,
the heating device is positioned within a housing of the fluid
transfer device. In other configurations, the heating device is
positioned upstream or downstream of the fluid transfer device. In
other arrangements, the climate control system additionally
includes a thermoelectric device (e.g., Peltier device) to
selectively cool fluids being delivered to the outlet conduit.
[0013] According to some embodiments, a heating device for
convectively heating a fluid includes a first heat transfer
assembly comprising a plurality of fins, such that the fins define
a plurality of fin spaces therebetween through which fluids can be
selectively passed. In one embodiment, the first heat transfer
assembly comprises a base having a first side and a second side
generally opposite of the first side. In some embodiments, the fins
or other heat transfer members extend from the first side of the
base. In one embodiment, the heating device additionally includes
at least one electrical conducting member positioned along at least
a portion of the second side of the base, wherein the electrical
conducting member is configured to receive electrical current and
convert said electrical current to heat. The heating device can
additionally include an outer housing that at least partially
surrounds the first heat transfer member and/or any other portion
of the device. In some embodiments, heat generated at or near the
electrical conducting member is transferred to the plurality of
fins of the first heat transfer assembly. In certain arrangements,
fluids directed through the fin spaces are selectively heated when
electrical current is provided to the heating device.
[0014] According to some embodiments, the first heat transfer
assembly and the one or more electrical conducting members comprise
a generally unitary structure. For example, the heat transfer
assembly and the conducting members can be permanently or removably
joined to one another. In alternative embodiments, the conducting
members are directly formed onto one or more surfaces of the heat
transfer assembly. In some embodiments, at least one electrical
conducting member is formed directly on the base of the first heat
transfer assembly.
[0015] In another embodiment, at least one electrical conducting
member is part of a heater (e.g., thick-film heater, thin-film
heater, other type of heater, etc.) secured to the base of the
first heat transfer assembly. In some arrangements, at least one
electrical conducting member comprises a conductive material
positioned on the base of the first heat transfer assembly. In one
embodiment, at least one electrical conducting member comprises a
conductive material positioned on an electrically non-conductive
base of the first heat transfer assembly.
[0016] According to some embodiments, the conductive material
comprises a metal (e.g., copper, silver, other metals or alloys,
etc.). In some embodiments, the conductive material comprises an
electrically conductive carbon material and/or any other conductive
material, either in lieu of or in additional to a metal. In other
embodiments, the conductive material comprises a conductive ink. In
one embodiment, the conductive material is deposited on the base
using spraying, coating, printing, plating and/or any other method.
In some embodiments, the first heat transfer assembly comprises an
electrically non-conductive material (e.g., molded plastic, other
polymeric materials, ceramic, etc.).
[0017] According to certain arrangements, the heating device
additionally comprises an electrical connector or other coupling in
electrical communication with at least one electrical conducting
member, wherein such a connector is configured to connect to a
coupling for the selective delivery of electrical current to the
heating device. In one embodiment, the heating device further
includes at least a second heat transfer assembly. In some
embodiments, a second heat transfer assembly extends in a direction
generally away from the second side of the base.
[0018] According to some embodiments, the heater and the first heat
transfer assembly of the heater device are attached using
adhesives, thermal grease, clips, bolts, other mechanical fasteners
and/or any other connection device or method. In some embodiments,
a Temperature Coefficient of Resistance (TCR) of at least one
electrical conducting member is between about 1,500 and 3,500
ppm/.degree. C. (e.g., about 1,500, 1,600, 1,700, 1,800, 1,900,
2,000, 2,100, 2,2000, 2,300, 2,400, 2,500, 2,600, 2,700, 2,800,
2,900, 3,000, 3,100, 3,200, 3,300, 3,400, 3,500 ppm/.degree. C.,
ranges between such values, etc.). In other embodiments, the TCR of
at least one conducting member is less than 1,500 ppm/.degree. C.
(e.g., between about 0 and 1,500 ppm/.degree. C.) or greater than
3,500 ppm/.degree. C. (3,550, 3,600, 3,700, 3,800, 3,900, 4,000,
4,500, 5,000, 5,500, 6,000 ppm/.degree. C., values greater than
6,000 ppm/.degree. C., ranges between such values, etc.).
[0019] According to some embodiments, a climate control system for
a seating assembly includes a heating device for thermally
conditioning a fluid. In some arrangements, the heating device of
the climate control system comprises a heat transfer assembly
having a base which includes a first side and a second side,
wherein the second side is generally opposite of the first side and
wherein the first side comprises a plurality of heat transfer
members through or near which fluid is configured to selectively
pass. The heating device additionally includes a heater comprising
at least one electrically conductive member which is configured to
receive electrical current and convert it electrical current to
heat. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the heat generated
by the heater is transferred to the heat transfer members of the
heat transfer assembly. In one embodiment, fluids passing through
or near the heat transfer members are selectively heated when
electrical current is provided to the heater. According to certain
arrangements, the climate control system further comprises a fluid
transfer device (e.g., fan, blower, etc.) configured to move fluid
through the heating device and an outlet conduit located downstream
of the heating device and the fluid transfer device, such that the
outlet conduit is configured to deliver thermally conditioned fluid
to a seating assembly.
[0020] According to some embodiments, the heater of the climate
control system is positioned along the second side of the base of
the heat transfer assembly such that the heat transfer assembly and
the heater comprise a generally unitary structure. In another
embodiment, at least one electrically conductive member comprises a
conductive material formed directly on the base of the first heat
transfer assembly. In other embodiments, at least one conductive
material is deposited on the base using spraying, coating,
printing, plating and/or any other device or method. In some
embodiments, the climate control system is configured for use in an
automobile seat or other vehicle seat. In other embodiments, the
climate control system is configured for use in a bed (e.g.,
standard bed, hospital or other medical bed, etc.) and/or any other
type of seating assembly (e.g., wheelchair, theater seat, office
chair, sofa, etc.). In other embodiment, the heating device and/or
other components of the climate control system are adapted to be
used to thermally condition other types of devices or specific
areas or regions. In some embodiments, the heating device is
positioned within a housing of the fluid transfer device. In other
arrangements, the heating device is positioned upstream or
downstream of the fluid transfer device (e.g., fan, blower, etc.).
In another embodiment, the climate control system additionally
includes one or more thermoelectric devices (e.g., Peltier circuit,
another type of heat pump, etc.) and/or other types of heating
and/or cooling devices to selectively cool fluids being delivered
to the outlet conduit. In one embodiment, a Temperature Coefficient
of Resistance (TCR) of the at least one electrically conductive
member is between about 1,500 and 5,000 ppm/.degree. C.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0021] These and other features, aspects and advantages of the
present application are described with reference to drawings of
certain embodiments, which are intended to illustrate, but not to
limit, the present inventions. The drawings include forty-four (44)
figures. It is to be understood that these drawings are for the
purpose of illustrating concepts of the present inventions and may
not be to scale.
[0022] FIG. 1 schematically illustrates a perspective view of one
embodiment of a heating device configured for use in a climate
controlled seat assembly;
[0023] FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of one embodiment of a
heater adapted for use with the heating device in FIG. 1;
[0024] FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective view of one embodiment of a
heat transfer assembly adapted for use with the heating device of
FIG. 1;
[0025] FIG. 4 illustrates a top view of the heat transfer assembly
of FIG. 3;
[0026] FIG. 5 illustrates a first side view of the heat transfer
assembly of FIG. 3;
[0027] FIG. 6 illustrates a front view or a second side view of the
heat transfer assembly of FIG. 3;
[0028] FIG. 7A illustrates a perspective view of a heat transfer
assembly according to another embodiment;
[0029] FIG. 7B illustrates a perspective view a heat transfer
assembly according to another embodiment;
[0030] FIG. 8 illustrates a front view of a heating device
comprising upper and lower heat transfer assemblies according to
one embodiment;
[0031] FIG. 9 illustrates a front view of a heating device
comprising upper and lower heat transfer assemblies according to
another embodiment;
[0032] FIG. 10 illustrates a front view of a heating device
comprising an upper heat transfer assembly according to one
embodiment;
[0033] FIGS. 11A and 11B illustrate perspective views of a heating
device comprising a heater and adjacent heat transfer assemblies
held together by clips or other fasteners according to one
embodiment;
[0034] FIG. 12 illustrates a clip configured to secure various
components of a heating device to each other according to another
embodiment;
[0035] FIG. 13A illustrates a clip configured to secure various
components of a heating device to each other according to still
another embodiment;
[0036] FIG. 13B illustrates the clip of FIG. 13A positioned on a
heating device;
[0037] FIG. 14 illustrates a perspective view of a heating device
attached to a power coupling according to one embodiment;
[0038] FIG. 15A illustrates a front view of the heating device of
FIG. 14;
[0039] FIG. 15B illustrates a perspective view of one embodiment of
a heater configured to connect to an power source and/or another
electrical component using a plurality of lead wires;
[0040] FIG. 16A illustrates a perspective view of a heating device
wherein the heater is incorporated onto a base of the heat transfer
assembly according to one embodiment;
[0041] FIG. 16B illustrates a perspective view of another
embodiment of a heating device in which the heater and the heat
transfer assembly are incorporated into a generally unitary
structure;
[0042] FIG. 16C illustrates a perspective view of another
embodiment of a heating device in which the heater and the heat
transfer assemblies are incorporated into a generally unitary
structure;
[0043] FIG. 16D illustrates various other embodiments of generally
electrically non-conductive substrates for use with a heating
device;
[0044] FIG. 17A illustrates a different perspective view of the
heating device of FIG. 16A;
[0045] FIG. 17B illustrates a top view of the heating device of
FIG. 16A;
[0046] FIG. 17C illustrates a front view of the heating device of
FIG. 16A;
[0047] FIG. 18 illustrates a perspective view of the heating device
of FIG. 16A comprising an electrical connector according to one
embodiment;
[0048] FIG. 19 illustrates a front view of the heating device of
FIG. 18;
[0049] FIG. 20 illustrates a front view of a heating device
comprising a heat sink according to one embodiment;
[0050] FIGS. 21A and 21B illustrate perspective views of a heating
device in which the electrical connector is attached along an end
fin according to one embodiment;
[0051] FIG. 22A illustrates a schematic layout of conductive leads
used in a heating device according to one embodiment;
[0052] FIG. 22B illustrates a schematic layout of conductive leads
used in a heating device according to another embodiment;
[0053] FIG. 22C schematically illustrates a chart showing the
relationship between power output of a heating device and time for
different conductive materials;
[0054] FIG. 22D schematically illustrates a chart showing the
change in temperature on or along a heater of a heating device over
time for different conductive materials;
[0055] FIG. 23 illustrates an exploded perspective view on the
fluid module comprising a heating device according to one
embodiment;
[0056] FIG. 24 illustrates a perspective view of the fluid module
of FIG. 23;
[0057] FIG. 25 schematically illustrates a climate controlled seat
assembly comprising two heating devices according to one
embodiment;
[0058] FIG. 26 schematically illustrates a climate controlled seat
assembly comprising two heating devices operatively connected to a
control unit according to one embodiment;
[0059] FIG. 27 schematically illustrates a climate controlled seat
assembly comprising a single heating device configured to
selectively heat fluids being delivered to the neck region of the
seat back portion according to one embodiment;
[0060] FIG. 28A illustrates a side cross-sectional view of a
climate controlled bed comprising heating devices according to one
embodiment;
[0061] FIG. 28B illustrates a top cross-sectional view of the
climate controlled bed of FIG. 28A;
[0062] FIG. 29 illustrates a partial cross-sectional view of a
fluid transfer device comprising a heating device within its
housing according to one embodiment; and
[0063] FIG. 30 illustrates a partial cross-sectional view of a
fluid transfer device comprising a heating device within its
housing according to another embodiment.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0064] The discussion below and the figures referenced herein
describe various embodiments of heating devices, devices and
systems configured to include such a heating devices and methods
utilizing such devices or systems. A number of embodiments of such
devices, systems and methods are particularly well suited to
provide heated air or other fluids to one or more portions of
vehicle seats (e.g., seat back portion, seat bottom portion, neck
portion, headrest region, other portions of an automotive seat or
other vehicle seat, etc.). However, the heating devices, systems
and other components (e.g., blowers, fans, other fluid transfer
devices, housings, thermoelectric devices, etc.) making use of such
heating devices and other thermally conditioning features disclosed
herein may be incorporated into other types of seat assemblies,
including, without limitation, beds (e.g., hospital beds, other
medical beds, beds for home use, hotel beds, etc.), recliner
chairs, sofas, office chairs, airplane seats, motorcycle seats,
other vehicle seats, stadium seats, benches, wheelchairs, outdoor
furniture, massage chairs and the like. Alternatively, such
devices, systems and methods can be used to selectively heat any
other device or system. In addition, the devices or systems
disclosed herein can be used to spot heat or otherwise deliver a
volume of heated air to one or more targeted areas of a vehicle
(e.g., A, B and/or C pillars, dashboard, visor, headliner, etc.),
vehicle seat, bed or other seating assembly, office or other
location. As used herein, the term "fluid" is a broad term and is
used in accordance with its ordinary meaning, and may include,
without limitation, gases (e.g., ambient air, oxygen, etc.),
liquids, non-Newtonian fluids, any other flowable materials,
combinations thereof and/or the like.
[0065] The various embodiments of the heating devices and systems
disclosed herein offer a number of advantages over currently
available heaters for seat assemblies. For example, heater mats and
other existing systems currently being used in climate controlled
seat assemblies are susceptible to overheating and fire danger.
Such mats typically require the placement of resistive wires and
other electrical connections within a seating assembly, sometimes
directly underneath the seating assembly surface. Thus, these wires
and other electrical connections and components are subject to
breaking, tearing and/or otherwise becoming damaged, especially
with the passage of time and excessive use. Further, heater mats
and similar heating systems can suffer from durability, occupant
detection and other comfort-related problems. In addition, such
components can short out, exposing the user to potentially
dangerous conditions and relatively expensive and complex repairs
and maintenance procedures.
[0066] In addition, when conventional heater mats are used to
provide heat to a climate control seat assembly, a supplier and/or
assembler may be required to install two separate items into the
seat assembly, a heater mat for heating purposes and a fluid module
configured to provide conditioned and/or ambient air for cooling or
venting purposes. In at least some of the various embodiments of
heating systems disclosed herein or variations thereof, the need
for a separate heating mat or other type of conductive heater is
eliminated. Thus, as discussed in greater detail herein, a single
heating device or system can be used to provide both heat and/or
venting (e.g., unheated air delivered into a seat assembly by the
heating system's fluid transfer device). Accordingly, the
complexity of the climate control system and/or its cost can be
advantageously reduced. In addition, repairing, servicing and/or
performing other maintenance tasks can be facilitated by the
embodiments of heating systems disclosed herein.
[0067] FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of one embodiment of a
heating device 10. As shown, the heating device 10 can include a
heater 20 and heat transfer assemblies 50, 60 on one or both sides
of the heater 20. Each heat transfer assembly 50, 60 can include a
plurality of fins 54, 64 or other heat transfer members. As
discussed in greater detail herein, the fins 54, 64 can be
configured to help transfer heat away from the surface of the
heater 20. According to some arrangements, the device 10 includes a
housing 14 that at least partially encloses the heater 20, the heat
transfer assemblies 50, 60 and any other components of the device
10. For example, in the depicted embodiment, the housing 14
surrounds the entire periphery of the heating device 10. According
to some embodiments, the heating device 10 includes a single
housing 14 that is configured to at least partially enclose the
various components of the device. However, in other embodiments,
the housing 14 comprises two or more portions that are permanently
or removably joined to one another using one or more attachment
devices or methods (e.g., adhesives, screws, tabs or other
fasteners, welds, etc.).
[0068] The housing 14 can include one or more thermally-insulating
materials, such as, for example, foam, plastic, other polymeric
materials, fiberglass and/or the like. According to some
arrangements, the housing 14 comprises a rigid or semi-rigid
structure that is configured to generally resist deformation when
exterior forces or stresses act upon it. Alternatively, the housing
14 can include a flexible material, such as, for example, a wrap,
one or more layers or sheets of foam, cloth, fabric and/or the
like. In one embodiment, the housing comprises a fine-celled,
flexible foam (e.g., Volara.RTM.) that has desirable physical,
chemical, thermal-insulation and other properties. The housing 14
or other portions of the device can include other features or
components to further enhance the thermal insulation properties of
the device 10. For example, gas assist injection molding and/or
structural foam molding methods can be utilized in the manufacture
of the housing. In other embodiments, the housing 14 is provided
with an interior barrier layer (e.g., air, foam, etc.) that further
enhances its thermal insulation properties. Any other device or
method of improving the thermal insulating properties of the
housing 14 and/or other portions of the heating device 10 can be
used. In addition, thermal insulation members can be placed, either
continuously or intermittently, along one or more portions of a
heating system (e.g., downstream conduits), as desired or
required.
[0069] With continued reference to the arrangement illustrated in
FIG. 1, the heating device 10 is configured to permit air to be
selectively passed between adjacent fins 54, 64 or other heat
exchange members (e.g., in a direction generally represented by
arrows A). Consequently, as discussed in greater detail herein, air
(or other fluid) that passes through the heating device 10 can be
convectively heated. Such heating can be caused by the transfer of
heat from the fins 54, 64 or other heat exchange members to the air
or other fluid passing adjacent thereto. Accordingly, thermally
conditioned (e.g., heated) air or other fluid can be delivered to
one or more portions of a climate controlled seating assembly or
other device or system.
[0070] In some arrangements, the heating device 10 comprises a
connector 40 that is used to easily and conveniently connect or
disconnect the device 10 to or from a power source (e.g., a
vehicles electrical system, a battery, another AC or DC power
source, etc.). Further, the connector 40 can be configured to place
the heating device 10 in data communication with a controller,
processor or other electrical device, as desired or required. The
connector 40 can include a recess 42 or other opening that is
sized, shaped and otherwise configured to receive a corresponding
coupling or other mating portion (not shown). In some embodiments,
the corresponding coupling or other mating portion (e.g., a male
connector in electrical communication with a power source) can be
securely coupled to the connector 40 of the device 10 using a snap
fitting or other attachment device or method (e.g., clips, other
engagement features, etc.).
[0071] With reference to FIG. 1, the depicted connector 40 is
positioned on and secured to a protruding portion 30 of the heater
20. As shown, such a protruding portion 30 can extend beyond the
edge of the housing 14. In some arrangements, the protruding
portion 30 forms a unitary structure with the heater 20.
Alternatively, the protruding portion 30 can be a separate item
that is attached to or is otherwise maintained in a desired
relationship with respect to the adjacent heater 20. Regardless of
the exact configuration and other details and design of the heating
device 10, the electrical leads 32 of the heater 20 can
advantageously terminate at the connector 40 to selectively
energize the heater 20 when the connector 40 is attached to a power
source. The electrical leads can include silver traces or other
metallic or non-metallic conductive materials.
[0072] FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of a heater 20 adapted
for use in a heating device 10 such as the one discussed herein
with reference to FIG. 1. In some embodiments, the heater 20 is a
thick-film resistance heater or another type of resistive-type
heater. Alternatively, a heating device 10 can comprise one or more
other types of heaters configured to generate the desired amount of
heat. In the depicted embodiment, the heater 20 comprises an
electrical input 22 and output 26. As discussed herein with
reference to FIG. 1, such inputs and outputs 22, 26 can be
selectively connected to a connector 40 or other component that may
be easily attached to and detached from a power source.
[0073] With continued reference to FIG. 2, the heater 20 can
comprise electrical buses 24, 27, 28 or other electrical conducting
strips or members that extend along its upper and/or lower
surfaces. In some arrangements, electrical current is supplied to
the buses 24, 27, 28 or other conducting strips through inputs 22,
26 or other electrical leads. Thus, electrical current (generally
represented in FIG. 2 by arrows I) can flow through the buses 24,
27, 28. As electrical current flows through the heater 20,
electrical energy can be advantageously converted to thermal
energy, thereby generating a desired heating effect along the
surface of the heater 10. With reference back to FIG. 1, at least a
fraction of such generated heat can be transmitted to and
dissipated through fins 54, 64 of the heat transfer assemblies 50,
60, thereby allowing heat to transfer to the air or other fluid
being conveyed through the heating device 10.
[0074] In other embodiments, the heater 20 comprises one or more
resistive materials (e.g., wires, conductive strips, etc.) that are
configured to conduct electrical current therethrough, either in
addition to or in lieu of electrical buses 24, 27, 28. The
position, spacing and general orientation of such conductive
materials along the heater 20 surface can be customized to achieve
a desired heating effect.
[0075] The heater 20 can comprise a ceramic (and/or other
electrically non-conducting) base and one or more conductive
portions (e.g., steel, copper, other metals, other electrically
conductive materials, etc.) for conducting current therethrough.
However, the heater 20 can include one or more other non-conductive
and/or conductive materials, as desired or required. For example,
in some embodiments, the heater 20 includes an electrical isolation
layer (e.g., non-electrically conductive layer) and/or a protective
coating. In other arrangements, the heater 20 comprises one or more
materials having a high thermal conductivity and low electrical
conductivity, such as, for example, certain ceramic materials
and/or polymer resins. Such thermally conductive materials can help
distribute the heat generated at the surface of the heater 20 more
evenly. In one arrangement, the thermally conductive material
comprises a ceramic, polyimide, epoxy, other polymers and/or the
like.
[0076] With further reference to FIG. 2, heat can be generated on
either or both surfaces. In some embodiments, thermal conductance
is generally uniform on both sides of the heater 20. However, in
alternative embodiments, thermal conductance is greater on one side
than the other, as desired or required by a particular application
or use. As discussed in greater detail herein, heat transfer
members (e.g., fins) can be positioned adjacent to one or both
surfaces to help convey the heat away from the heater 20. This can
allow a heating device 10 to more effectively heat a volume of air
or other fluid via convection. In addition, transferring heat away
from the heater 20 can enhance the function of the heater 20 (e.g.,
improve its efficiency, extend its useful life, etc.).
[0077] In some embodiments, as illustrated in FIG. 2, the heater 20
includes one or more openings 36 through which a bolt, screw or
other fastener may be positioned. Such openings 36 can be used to
help secure the heater 10 to adjacent fins 50, 60 (or other heat
transfer members), a housing 14 and/or other components or portions
of the heating device 10. This may be helpful when the heating
device comprises materials that cannot be attached to one another
using other connection methods or devices, such as, for example,
adhesives, welds, heat bonding, etc. As discussed in greater detail
herein, one or more other connection methods or devices can be used
to attach the various components of the heating device 10 to each
other.
[0078] FIGS. 3-6 illustrate different views of a heat transfer
assembly 150 for use in a heating system as disclosed herein. As
shown, the heat transfer assembly 150 can include a base 152 and a
plurality of fins 154 or other heat transfer members that generally
extend from the base 152. The base 152 and the fins 154 can
comprise a unitary structure. Alternatively, the base 152 and the
fins 154 can be separate members that are secured to each other
using one or more attachment devices or methods (e.g., welds,
adhesives, bolts, other fasteners, etc.). The heat transfer
assembly 150 can comprise copper, aluminum, other metals or alloys,
ceramic and/or any other material, especially those having
favorable heat transfer properties.
[0079] In the arrangement depicted in FIGS. 3-6, the heat transfer
assembly 150 comprises a total of twenty vertically-oriented,
parallel fins 154 or other heat transfer members. Thus, as shown,
adjacent fins 154 can define a plurality of generally rectangular
areas or spaces 151 through which air or other fluids can pass in
order to be convectively heated. In other embodiments, however, the
quantity, shape, size, orientation, spacing and/or other details of
the base 152, fins 154 and/or any other component or feature of the
heat transfer assembly 150 can be different than discussed or
illustrated herein.
[0080] As illustrated in FIGS. 3 and 4, the heat transfer assembly
150 can include one or more openings 158 through which a bolt,
screw and/or other fastener may be placed. In the depicted
embodiment, the heat transfer assembly 150 comprises a single
opening 158 which is located near the center of the assembly 150
and which includes a generally circular shape. The opening 158 can
be sized, shaped, located and otherwise configured to align and
match with corresponding openings of the heater (FIG. 2), another
heat transfer assembly, the housing and/or another component of the
heating device to which it is secured. Accordingly, a bolt, screw,
other fastener or other device may be passed through the openings
of various components to secure such components to each other. The
quantity, size, shape, location, spacing and/or other
characteristics of the openings can be different than disclosed
herein, as desired or required.
[0081] Another embodiment of a heat transfer assembly 250 is
illustrated in FIG. 7A. The depicted heat transfer assembly 250 is
similar to the one of FIGS. 3-6 in that it includes a base 252 and
a plurality of fins 254 or other heat transfer members extending
therefrom. However, unlike the arrangement shown in FIGS. 3-6, the
depicted assembly 250 does not include an opening. Thus, the
heater, one or more heat transfer assemblies 250 and/or any other
components of the corresponding heating system can be secured to
each other using different connection devices or methods, such as,
for example, welds, adhesives, thermal grease, clips and/or like.
Alternatively, in any of the embodiments of a heating device
disclosed herein, the heater, heat transfer assemblies and/or any
other components can be maintained in a desired orientation
relative to each other (e.g., connected to each other, in contact
with each other, etc.) without the use of adhesives, fasteners
and/or other connection devices. For example, in such arrangements,
the various components of the heating devices can be configured to
mechanically fit within a polymeric or other type of outer housing.
A similar embodiment of a heat transfer assembly 250' is
illustrated in FIG. 7B. The assembly 250' can include a plurality
of heat transfer members 254' extending from a base 252'. As shown
in FIG. 7B, the assembly 250' can include a cutout, recess or
similar feature along the base to advantageously accommodate a
thermistor, sensor and/or any other component or item that may be
included in a heating device.
[0082] FIG. 8 illustrates a front view of a heating device 310A
according to one embodiment. The heating device 310A can include an
outer housing 314A that generally surrounds a heater 320A, upper
and lower heat transfer assemblies 350A, 360A and/or any other
component. As discussed, the heat transfer assemblies 350A, 360A
can be secured to the heater 320A using one or more attachment
devices or methods. Alternatively, the assemblies 350A, 360A can be
configured to be in thermal communication with the heater without
physically contacting it. For example, the heat transfer assemblies
350A, 360A can be placed in close proximity to the heater 320A with
one or more intermediate members (e.g., a polyimide or other
thermally-conductive layer, heat distribution component, etc.)
situated between the heater 320A and the heat transfer assemblies
350A, 360A. The heater 320A can comprise a thick-film heater,
another type of restive heater and/or any other type of device
configured to selectively produce thermal energy.
[0083] Further, as discussed herein with reference to the
embodiment of FIG. 1, the heater 320A can comprise a protruding
portion 330A that generally extends to the exterior of the housing
314A. As shown in FIG. 8, the housing 314A can include a slot 318A
or other opening through which the protruding portion 330A can exit
the interior of the device 310A. In some embodiments, a connector
340A secured to the protruding portion 330A of the heater 320A
allows a user to easily attach or detach the heating device 310A to
or from a power source (e.g., a vehicle's electrical system, a
battery, another AC or DC power source, etc.) and/or other
electrical component (e.g., processor, sensor, controller, another
heating device, etc.).
[0084] With continued reference to FIG. 8, the fins 354A, 364A of
the heat transfer assemblies 350A, 360A can have a folded design.
The fins 354A, 364A can be folded in a manner that creates
alternating upper and lower portions that are flat or substantially
flat. In some arrangements, heat can be transferred from the heater
320A to the heat transfer assemblies 350A, 360A primarily through
these flat or substantially flat portions of fins 354A, 364A. As
shown in FIG. 8, the fins 354A, 364A can form generally triangular
or trapezoidal spaces 351A, 361A or gaps between adjacent folds
through which air or other fluids may pass. An alternative
arrangement of heat transfer assemblies 350B, 360B is illustrated
in FIG. 9. In the depicted embodiment, adjacent folded fins 354B,
364B of the assemblies 350B, 360B are generally parallel to each
other (e.g., the fins have more of a vertical orientation).
Accordingly, the spaces 351B, 361B or gaps between adjacent fins
354B, 364B comprise a generally rectangular shape. In other
arrangements, the heat transfer assemblies can have a different
shape, size, spacing, orientation and/or other characteristics, as
desired or required.
[0085] FIG. 10 illustrates an embodiment of a heating device 410
comprising a heat transfer assembly 450 positioned on only one side
of the heater 420. As shown, the heater 420, the heat transfer
assembly 450 and an outer housing 414 positioned therearound can
define a plurality of spaces 451 through which air or other fluids
can be selectively directed. Consequently, air or other fluids
passing through the heating device 410 can be thermally conditioned
(e.g., heated) by convective heat transfer. Such heated air or
other fluids can be subsequently delivered to one or more portions
of a climate-controlled seating assembly (e.g., vehicle seat, other
chair, bed, etc.) or other device. In other embodiments, the size,
shape, orientation, spacing and/or other details of the heat
transfer assembly 450 are different than illustrated and discussed
herein. For example, the fins 454 or other heat transfer member can
include a folded design, such as those shown in FIGS. 8 and 9. In
certain arrangements, the spaces 451 between adjacent fins 454 can
include a different size, shape and/or the like. For example, the
spaces 451 can be customized to achieve a desired flow pattern or
characteristics (e.g., laminar, turbulent, etc.) or to meet certain
design criteria (e.g., maximum or desired headloss for a given
flowrate, maximum or desired noise requirements, etc.) through the
heating device 410.
[0086] According to some embodiments, electrical current is
delivered to a heater of a heating device through wires that are
connected to an exterior portion of the device's housing. For
example, the wires can be secured to the housing using
corresponding attachment assemblies. Such attachment assemblies can
include electrically conductive pins and electrically conductive
brackets that allow electricity to be transferred between the wires
and the leads of the heater. In some embodiments, the brackets are
also be used to structurally secure a heater relative to the
housing. The wires of such a device can be connected to a power
supply (e.g., a vehicle's electrical system, a battery, another AC
or DC power source, solar panel, etc.). Consequently, the heater
can be selectively energized by delivering electrical current to it
in order to create a desired heating effect along the adjacent heat
transfer assemblies. As a result, air or other fluids passing
through the heating device can be convectively heated. In
alternative arrangements, electrical current can be supplied to the
heater in a different manner than illustrated or described
herein.
[0087] FIGS. 11A and 11B illustrate perspective views of a heating
device 610 that includes a heater 620 and heat transfer assemblies
650, 660 positioned immediately above and below the heater 620. In
the depicted embodiment, each heat transfer assembly 650, 660
comprises a middle portion 655, 665 that does not include fins 654,
664 or other heat transfer members. As shown, such fin-free
portions 655, 665 can include slots 653 or other engagement
features (e.g., recesses, other openings, protrusions, flanges,
tabs, etc.) to help secure a clip 680, other mechanical fastener
and/or other attachment device thereto. In some embodiments, the
middle portion 655, 665 of each heat transfer assembly 650, 660
includes two or more slots 653 located near the edge of the base
652, 662 of the respective assembly 650, 660. The quantity, shape,
size, location along the heat transfer assembly, spacing and/or
other details of the fin-free portions 655, 665, slots 653 or other
engagement members, clips 680 and/or any other component or feature
of the heating device 610 can be varied, as desired or required.
For instance, the fin-free portion 655, 665 of the heat transfer
assemblies 650, 660 can be positioned along any other area of the
assemblies 650, 660, including, without limitation, the edges,
areas between the middle and the edges and/or the like. In
addition, a heat transfer assembly 650, 660 can include two or more
different portions or areas which do not include fins and which are
configured to receive a clip 680 or other securement device.
[0088] With continued reference to FIGS. 11A and 11B, clips 680 can
be used to secure the heater 620 to the adjacent heat transfer
assemblies 650, 660. In the depicted embodiment, one clip 680 is
positioned on either end of the fin-free regions 655, 665 of the
heat transfer assemblies 650, 660. However, as noted above, a
heating device 610 can include more or fewer clips 680. In other
arrangements, a different connection method or device can be used
to permanently or removably (e.g., temporarily) attach the various
components of the heating device 610 to each other, either in lieu
of or in addition to clips 680 or other mechanical fasteners. For
example, the heat transfer assemblies 650, 660, the heater 620, the
housing (not shown in FIGS. 11A and 11B) and/or any other component
or feature can be secured to each other using welds, rivets, bolts,
screws, other fasteners, adhesives and/or the like.
[0089] As shown in FIG. 11A, the clips 680 can include a flanged
portion 682 that is shaped, sized and otherwise adapted to fit
within a corresponding slot 653 of the upper or lower heat transfer
assembly 650, 660. In some embodiments, the clips 680 comprise one
or more rigid, semi-rigid and/or flexible materials that are
adapted to withstand the forces, stresses, temperature variations
and/or other elements to which they may be exposed. For instance,
the clips 680 can comprise plastic or other polymeric materials,
metals or other alloys, paper or wood-based materials and/or the
like. In certain arrangements, the clips 680 are resilient so they
may be easily secured to or removed from the device 610, as desired
or required.
[0090] FIG. 12 illustrates another embodiment of a clip 680'
adapted to secure heat transfer assemblies and/or other components
of a heating device to a heater (not shown). For example, such a
clip 680' can be sized, shaped and otherwise configured to be
positioned within a fin-free portion 655, 665 of a heat transfer
assembly 650, 660 (FIG. 11A). In other embodiments, such a clip
680' is adapted to fit between adjacent fins 654, 664 or other heat
transfer members.
[0091] With continued reference to FIG. 12, the clip 680' can
include upper and lower portions 684', 686' that are attached to
each other using a hinge 683' or other movable connection. Thus,
such a hinge 683' can advantageously permit the upper and lower
portions 684', 686' to be moved relative to each other in order to
secure the clip 680' to (or remove it from) a heating device. As
shown, one of the upper and lower portions 684', 686' can include
an engagement feature 685' configured to engage and secure to a
corresponding area or feature 687' (e.g., recess) of the opposite
portion 684', 686'. Accordingly, the upper and lower portions 684',
686' can be selectively brought together or moved apart in order to
secure the clip 680' to a heating device.
[0092] Another embodiment of a clip 680'' for securing the heat
transfer assemblies 650'', 660'' and/or other components of a
heating device 610'' to a heater 620'' is illustrated in FIGS. 13A
and 13B. As with the arrangement disclosed herein with reference to
FIG. 12, the depicted clip 680'' can include upper and lower
portions 684'', 686'' that may be selectively attached to or
removed from each other. For example, in FIG. 13A, the upper
portion 684'' includes an engagement tab 685'' or other protrusion
that is configured to fit within and secure to a slot 687'' or
other opening of the lower portion 686''. In other embodiments, the
upper and lower portions 684'', 686'' are configured to secure to
each other using one or more other devices or features. FIG. 13B is
a perspective view of a heating device 610'' comprising a clip
680'' adapted to maintain the various components of the device
secured to one another.
[0093] FIG. 14 illustrates a perspective view of a heating device
710 according to one embodiment. As shown, the heating device 710
can include a heater 720 generally positioned between upper and
lower heat transfer assemblies 750, 760. As discussed herein with
reference to other arrangements, each heat transfer assembly 750,
760 can include a plurality of fins 754, 764 between which air or
other fluids may be selectively directed for thermal conditioning.
The heat transfer assemblies 750, 760 can be secured to the heater
720 using one or more attachment devices or methods, such as, for
example, clips, bolts, screws or other fasteners, adhesives,
adhesive tapes, welds, rivets and/or the like.
[0094] According to certain embodiments, the dimensions of each
heat transfer assembly 750, 760 are approximately 54.1 mm long,
32.7 mm wide and 9.2 mm high. However, in other arrangements, the
size, dimensions, shape and/or other characteristics of a heat
transfer assembly 750, 760 can vary, as desired or required by a
particular application or use. The base 752, 762, fins 754, 764 or
other heat transfer members and/or any other component of the heat
transfer assembly 750, 760 can comprise one or more metals (e.g.,
copper, aluminum, etc.), alloys, ceramics and/or any other
material, especially those having favorable or desired heat
transfer characteristics.
[0095] As discussed in greater detail herein, the heater 720 can
include a thick-film heater, a thin-film heater, another
resistance-type heater, one or more electrically conductive layers
(e.g., sprayed layers, dip coated layers, etc.) and/or any other
device adapted to produce heat. In addition, as with any of the
embodiments illustrated or otherwise disclosed herein, or
equivalents thereof, one or more materials can be positioned
between the heater 720 and the adjacent heat transfer assemblies
750, 760 to facilitate the distribution and transfer of heat. For
example, thermal adhesive, thermal epoxy, thermal grease, thermal
paste, and/or other thermal compounds known in the art may be
used.
[0096] With continued reference to FIG. 14, the heater 720 can
include a protruding portion 730 that generally extends beyond the
periphery or outer edges of the upper and lower heat transfer
assemblies 750, 760. In certain embodiments, such as the one
discussed herein in relation to the device of FIG. 1, the
protruding portion 730 can include one or more connectors 740 that
are used to easily connect or disconnect the device 710 to or from
a power source (e.g., an automobile's electrical system, battery,
another AC or DC power source, etc.). Further, the connector 740
can place the heating device 710 in data communication with a
controller, processor or other electrical device, as desired or
required.
[0097] The connector 740 can be permanently or removably attached
to the protruding portion 730 of the heater 720 using one or more
connection methods or devices, such as, for example, adhesives,
tapes, welds, fasteners and/or the like. Regardless of the exact
configuration and other details of the heating device 710, the
electrical leads 732 of the heater 720 can advantageously terminate
at the connector 740 to selectively energize the heater 720 when
the connector 740 is attached to an active power supply.
[0098] With continued reference to the embodiment depicted in FIG.
14, the connector 740 can include a recess 742 or other opening
which is sized, shaped and otherwise adapted to receive a
corresponding power coupling 790. The coupling 790 can be connected
to one or more wires 794 that are configured to provide electrical
current to the heater 720 (e.g., from an AC or DC power source)
and/or to place the heating device 710 in data and/or electrical
communication with another component (e.g., controller, processor,
sensor, etc.). As shown in FIG. 14, the coupling 790 can be
connected to the device 710 using a movable tab 792 or other member
or feature (e.g., clips, other engagement features, friction
fittings, threaded connection, etc.) that is configured to engage
and secure to a corresponding portion of the connector 740. For
instance, the movable tab 792 can be lifted in order to secure the
coupling 790 to the connector 740. In one embodiment, once the tab
792 is released, the coupling 790 is advantageously locked to the
coupling 740. Likewise, the tab 792 may need to be lifted in order
to separate the coupling 790 from the connector 740. One or more
other devices, features and/or methods can be used to place the
connector 740 or other portion of the heater 720 in electrical
communication with a power supply and/or other electrical
component.
[0099] Accordingly, once the heating device 710 has been properly
connected to an energized coupling 790 and electrical current has
been delivered to the heater 720, the fins 754, 764 or other heat
transfer members of the adjacent assemblies 750, 760 can be
selectively heated. Thus, air or other fluids passing through the
heating device 710, which in some embodiments includes an outer
housing (not shown in FIG. 14), can be thermally conditioned before
being conveyed to a desired location (e.g., a vehicle seat, a bed,
another type of climate controlled seat assembly, another device,
region or area, etc.). The amount of heat that is transferred to
the fins 754, 764, and ultimately to the air or other fluid passing
therethrough, can be controlled by, among other things, regulating
the amount of electrical current being delivered to the heater 720,
the flowrate of air passing through the heater, the types of
materials used in the heating device, the insulation properties of
the device, the type of heater used and/or any other variables.
[0100] FIG. 15A is a front elevation view of a heating device 710
similar to the one illustrated and discussed herein with reference
to FIG. 14. As shown, the device 710 can include a heater 720
generally positioned between upper and lower heat transfer
assemblies 750, 760. In addition, a protruding portion 730 of the
heater 720 can include a connector 740 that is configured to be
selectively coupled to or detached from a power coupling 790.
[0101] As illustrated in FIG. 15B, for any of the embodiments of a
heating device disclosed herein, or equivalents thereof, the heater
20' can include one or more lead wires W that are configured to
place the heating device in electrical and/or data communication
with a power source and/or another electrical component. Such lead
wires W can be used either in lieu of or in addition to a coupling,
such as the connector illustrated in FIG. 15A.
[0102] A perspective view of another embodiment of a heating device
810 is illustrated in FIG. 16A. The depicted heating device 810
generally incorporates the heater 820 and the heat transfer
assembly 850 into a unitary structure. For example, the heating
device 810 can comprise a single heat transfer assembly 850 that
includes a base 852 and a plurality of fins 854 or other heat
transfer members extending from a first surface of the base. In
other arrangements, the shape, size, spacing or other
characteristics of the fins 854 and/or other components of the
assembly 850 can vary, as desired or required.
[0103] With continued reference to FIG. 16A, the various components
of the heater 820 can be positioned along or incorporated onto the
heat transfer assembly 850. For example, as shown, the conductive
leads 824, the thermistor 829 and/or the like can be situated along
the base 852 of the assembly, generally along the opposite surface
of the fins 854 or other heat transfer members. In some
embodiments, the electrical leads 824, the thermistor and/or other
electrically conductive members can be printed onto the base 852 of
the assembly 850 using conductive inks. The size, pattern, material
composition and other properties or characteristics of the leads
824 and/or other conductive members can help determine the overall
capacity and other performance-related properties of the heater
810. For example, such variables can be modified to provide the
device 810 with a desired electrical resistance, total heat output
per electrical input and/or the like. In some embodiments, before
and/or after depositing the leads 824, thermistor and/or other
conductive members on the assembly 850, one or more other layers or
coatings can be applied thereto. For example, in one embodiment, an
electrical isolation layer is applied to the base 852 of the
assembly 850. This can help achieve the desired thermal output,
while protecting the heater from potentially dangerous or otherwise
unwanted electrical exposure.
[0104] Further, an outer wrap or housing (not shown in FIG. 16A)
can be provided around the device 810 to enclose the space through
which fluids are selectively directed, to provide for thermal
insulation, to protect the components of the device 810 and/or for
any other purpose. As electrical current is provided through the
conductive leads 824 and/or other conductive members of the device
810, a corresponding amount of heat is produced along the heater
820. The heat produced by the heater 820 can be transmitted to the
fins 854 or other heat transfer members of the device.
Consequently, as discussed with reference to other embodiments
disclosed herein, air or other fluids passing through the spaces
851 defined by adjacent fins 854 (e.g., in a direction generally
represented by arrows A) can be selectively heated.
[0105] The embodiment of FIG. 16A can offer a compact and
convenient device for thermally conditioning air or other fluids,
as the need for a separate heater and heat transfer assemblies is
eliminated. This can be particularly helpful when the heater 810
needs to be designed in accordance with relatively strict size
constraints or parameters. In addition, the challenge of connecting
the heater to one or more heat transfer assemblies is eliminated in
such embodiments. Consequently, the labor, expense and complexity
of such heating devices can be advantageously decreased. In
addition, such unitary heating devices 810 can offer more reliable
and accurate heating of air or other fluids passing therethrough.
FIGS. 17A-17C provide different views of the heating device 810 of
FIG. 16A.
[0106] As noted above, in some embodiments, electrical leads and/or
other electrically conductive members can be printed or otherwise
formed onto a base of a heat transfer assembly or along any other
portion of a heating device using conductive inks that have desired
electrically resistive properties. Accordingly, such conductive
inks or other materials can be selectively printed or otherwise
deposited onto one or more surfaces of a heating device (e.g., a
base of a fin assembly or other heat transfer assembly). This can
provide a simpler, less expensive and/or faster method of producing
a heating device. Such conductive inks and other materials can
replace, either partially or completely, the conductive leads,
buses or other electrically conductive materials or components of a
heating device.
[0107] According to some embodiments, one or more electrically
conductive layers can be applied along one or more surfaces of a
heating device to create the conductive leads or pathways through
which electrical current may be routed to selectively produce heat.
For example, such materials can be sprayed onto a surface of the
heating device. Alternatively, such electrically conductive
materials can be applied to one or more surfaces or other portions
of a heating device using a dip coating, printing, plating or other
process.
[0108] Such electrically conductive materials (e.g., inks, layers,
etc.) can be sprayed, dip coated, powder coated, screen printed,
electroplated and/or otherwise applied (e.g., either directly or
indirectly) on a surface of a heating device. In some arrangements,
the electrically conductive materials include, without limitation,
metals (e.g., silver, copper, alloys, etc.),
electrically-conductive graphite or other carbon materials and/or
any other electrically-conductive materials.
[0109] As illustrated in FIG. 16B, a heating device 810B can
include a heat transfer assembly 850B (e.g., fin assembly) having a
base 852B that is configured to receive one or more electrically
conductive materials along one or more of its surfaces. As noted
above, such electrically conductive materials can be positioned
onto targeted regions of the base 852B and/or any other surface of
the heating device 810B using one or more methods (e.g., spraying,
coating, printing, plating, etc.), as desired or required. In the
depicted embodiment, electrically conductive materials have been
deposited on the base 852B, along a surface generally opposite of
the fins 854B, so as to effectively form an electrical pathway 824B
through which current may pass. As shown, the ends of the
conductive path 824B can be electrically coupled to wires 894B or
other members that are connected to a power supply or another
electrical component. In other embodiments, the electrically
conductive pathway include a different shape or orientation along
one or more surfaces of the base 852B and/or other portions of the
heating device 810B. For example, the width, length, spacing,
location, pattern and/or other characteristics of the path 824B can
be different than illustrated in FIG. 16B.
[0110] Another embodiment of a heating device 810C is illustrated
in FIG. 16C. As shown, the heating device 810C includes upper and
lower heat transfer assemblies 850C, 860C generally positioned
between a central base 870C. In some arrangements, the heat
transfer assemblies 850C, 860C and the base 870C are formed as a
unitary structure. Alternatively, the assemblies 850C, 860C and the
base can comprise two or more portions that are permanently or
removably secured to each other (or are otherwise maintained in a
desired orientation relative to each other).
[0111] With continued reference to FIG. 16C, an electrically
conductive path 824C can be formed along one or more surfaces of
the heating device 810C. For example, in FIG. 16C, the electrical
pathways 824C are positioned along both the main base 870C and the
fins 854C of the upper heat transfer assembly 850C. In other
embodiments, the pathway 824C is positioned along at least some of
the fins 864C of the bottom assembly 860C, either in addition to or
in lieu of fins of the upper assembly 850C. In still other
embodiments, the pathway is routed along larger or smaller (or
different) areas of the heating device 810C, as desired or
required. Regardless of their exact size, dimensions, location,
spacing and/or other details, the electrically conductive pathways
comprise one or more materials (e.g., metals, carbon, etc.) that
conduct the electrical current provided to a heating device 810C
(e.g., via wires 894C, other leads, etc.). Accordingly, heat is
advantageously produced along one or more portions of the device
810C. As discussed herein with reference to other embodiments, air
or other fluids that is delivered past the heating device (e.g.,
through the spaces defined between adjacent fins 854C, 864C) can be
selectively heated. Thus, such heating devices can be placed in
fluid communication with a fluid transfer device (e.g., blower,
fan, etc.) to deliver heated air or other fluids to targeted
portions of a seating assembly or other locations.
[0112] According to some embodiments, heating device include an
electrically non-conductive substrate that is configured to receive
electrically conductive materials along one or more of its
surfaces. The non conductive substrate can comprises a heat
transfer assembly or any other portion of the heating device. In
some embodiments, as illustrated in FIGS. 16, 16B and 16C, such
electrically non-conductive substrates comprise one or more fins or
other heat transfer members. However, as illustrated in the various
embodiments depicted in FIG. 16D, the size, shape and general
configuration of substrates 880A-880F can vary, as desired or
required for a particular application or use. The substrates can be
configured for use in a convective heating system, a conductive
heating system and/or a combination convective/conductive heating
system. For example, in a conductive heating system, heat produced
by an electrically conductive pathway of a heating device is used
to heat a surface or region in a generally conductive manner. Thus,
an item or region positioned adjacent or near the heater is
directly heated directly by the heat produced by the conductive
pathways.
[0113] In some embodiments, the heat transfer assemblies, other
substrates and/or other portions of a heating device can be
advantageously formed into a desired shape, size and general
configuration. Such components can be manufactured using any one of
a variety of methods, such as, for example, injection molding,
compression molding, thermoforming, extrusion, casting and/or the
like. The non-conductive components can comprise one or more
materials, including, without limitation, moldable plastics, other
polymeric materials, paper-based products, ceramics and/or the
like. Accordingly, the ability to spray, coat, print or otherwise
deposit electrically conductive materials along one or more
surfaces of such non-conductive heat transfer assemblies or other
substrates provides greater design flexibility of convective and/or
conductive heating assemblies. Further, the use of such components
and production methods can advantageously reduce costs and
facilitate the manufacture of heating devices. For example, by
spraying, coating, printing, plating or otherwise depositing the
conductive pathways on a non-conductive substrate, a heating device
can be manufactured with a unitary structure. As a result, the need
to join or otherwise maintain separate components (e.g., a heater,
one or more heat transfer assemblies, etc.) of a heating device to
each other is reduced or eliminated.
[0114] In any of the embodiments disclosed herein, or equivalents
thereof, that utilize the application of electrically conductive
materials (e.g., sprays, coating, printing, plating, etc.) to form
conductive pathways and/or other conductive components, a heating
device can include one or more additional items, components, layers
and/or the like. For example, devices that include a sprayed
conductive material on a non-conductive heat transfer member, such
as the ones illustrated in FIG. 16B or 16C, can include a heat
conductive layer, a thermistor, a sensor, a protective layer or
coating and/or the like. END
[0115] In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 18 and 19, the
heating device 810 includes an electrical connector 840 adapted to
receive a power coupling 890. As discussed with reference to other
configurations herein, such a connector 840 can offer a convenient
and easy way of placing the conductive leads 824, the thermistor
829 and/or other portions of the heater 820 in electrical
communication with a vehicle's electrical system, a battery,
another type of AC or DC power supply and/or the like. As shown in
the depicted embodiment, the connector 840 can be positioned along
a protruding portion 830 of the assembly's base 852, generally
along the edge of the heating device 810. Alternatively, the
connector 840 can be positioned along any other portion or area of
the base 852 or heating device, as long as it is electrically
connected to the conductive portions of the heater 820.
[0116] With reference to FIG. 20, a heating device 810' can
comprise a heat sink 898 along or near the surface of the base 852
on which the conductive leads and other components of the heater
820 are positioned. Thus, heat can be dissipated away from the
heater 820 both toward and away from the main fins 854 or other
main heat transfer members. This can further enhance the operation
of the heater 820 and/or other components of the device 810'. In
other embodiments, the conductive leads, the thermistor and/or
other conductive portions of the heater 820 can be thermally
insulated so as to reduce heat loss in a direction generally away
from the fins 854 or other heat transfer members of the device
810'.
[0117] Another embodiment of a device 910 configured to selectively
heat air or other fluids passing therethrough is illustrated in
FIG. 21A. As with the arrangements of FIGS. 16-19, the depicted
heating device 910 incorporates the various components of the
heater (e.g., conductive leads, thermistor, etc.) into a unitary
structure with the heat transfer assembly. Thus, the heat transfer
assemblies need not be separate from the heater. In FIG. 21A, the
conductive leads 924, thermistor 929 and/or other conductive
members of the heater are positioned, at least in part, along the
side of an end fin 954 or other heat transfer member. In some
embodiments, such conductive leads or other members are positioned
along the bottom surface of the base 952 (e.g., similar to the
arrangement of FIGS. 16-19), either in lieu of or in addition to
being disposed along one or more fins 954. As discussed in greater
detail above, the conductive pathways and/or other electrically
conductive components or portions of such heating devices can be
manufactured using one or more conductive materials that are
selectively deposited (e.g., using spray coating, dip coating,
other coating technologies, printing, etc.) onto a non-conductive
substrate.
[0118] As illustrated in FIG. 21B, a connector 940 can be attached
to the side of the end fin 954 or other heat transfer member to
permit a convenient way of connecting the heating device 910 to a
power source (e.g., a vehicle's electrical system, a battery,
another AC or DC power source, etc.) or other electrical component
or system. Thus, the connector 940 can be placed in electrical
communication with the conductive leads 924, thermistor 929 and/or
other conductive members of the heater. As discussed in greater
detail herein, a housing, wrap or other outer member can be used to
partially or completely surround the heating device 910. Such a
housing, wrap or other outer member can be used with any of the
embodiments of a heating device disclosed herein, or equivalents
thereof, as desired or required.
[0119] FIG. 22A schematically illustrates one embodiment of a
layout of conductive leads 24A for use in any of the heating
devices disclosed herein or equivalents thereof. As shown, the
leads 24A can comprise a path created by traces of one or more
electrically-conductive materials (e.g., silver, other metals or
alloys, etc.). Electrical current delivered through the heating
device can be converted to heat as a result of the electrical
resistance within the conductive members (e.g., silver traces). In
such embodiments, the conductive leads can continue to transmit
electricity therethrough even if when the operating temperature of
the heater is relatively high. Thus, a heating device can include a
thermistor or other temperature-regulating component or feature to
help protect the device against excessive temperatures that may be
damaging or dangerous to the system or user.
[0120] Another embodiment of a conductive lead scheme is
illustrated in FIG. 22B. In the depicted arrangement, the circuit
comprises a plurality of bridges 25B or breakers that are
configured to be less robust with respect to temperature resistance
than the main conductive leads. Thus, as the heater reaches a
particular threshold operating temperature, these bridges 25B can
be adapted to fail, thereby protecting the heater and other
portions of the heating device against potentially damaging or
dangerous over-temperature conditions. As a result, such a
configuration can eliminate the need for thermistors and/or other
temperature-regulating components or features. Such bridges 25B may
be incorporated into any of the heating device embodiments
disclosed herein or equivalents thereof. As noted above, the
conductive leads can include conductive materials that have been
sprayed, coated, printed, plated and/or otherwise deposited onto
one or more surfaces or portions (e.g., a base of a heat transfer
assembly) of a heating device.
[0121] According to some embodiments, regardless of their exact
details (e.g., type, form, size, shape, orientation, etc.), the
conductive materials that are included in the electrical leads,
busses, pathways, and/or other conductive portions of a heating
device configured to convert electrical current to heat can be
selected based on a target Thermal Coefficient of Resistance (TCR),
target TCR range and/or similar electrical property. For example,
in some embodiments, the conductive materials comprise a relatively
stable TCR over the expected operational temperature range of the
heating device. As a result, the power output of the conductive
materials, and thus the amount of heat produced, will increase
relatively gradually over time (e.g., from the time the heating
device is activated to a later point in time), as the power output
is not significantly affected by the actual temperature of the
device. This is schematically represented by the M2 graph
illustrated in FIG. 22C. In some embodiments, such relatively
stable materials comprise a TCR value between about 0 and 1,000
ppm/.degree. C., such as, for example, about 400, 500 or 600
ppm/.degree. C. In other embodiments, such relatively stable
materials comprise a TCR value between about 1,000 and 1,500
ppm/.degree. C. or higher, such as, for example, about 1,200 or
1,300 ppm/.degree. C.
[0122] Relatedly, FIG. 22D schematically illustrates a graphical
comparison of temperature of a heating device (e.g., on or near the
conductive materials, along the fins or other heat transfer members
of the device, etc.) over time for materials having varying TCR
properties. As shown, the temperature for heating devices using
conductive materials M2 with a relatively stable TCR value or range
will increase more gradually (e.g., in a linear or generally linear
manner) over time. This is due, in part, because the power output
for heating device utilizing such conductive materials is generally
stable over the operational temperature range of the device.
[0123] In other embodiments, the conductive materials that are
included in the electrical leads, busses, pathways and/or other
conductive portions of a heating device comprise a higher TCR value
or range and/or similar electrical property. For example, in some
embodiments, such conductive materials comprise a relatively
unstable TCR over the expected operational temperature range of the
heating device. As a result, the power output of the conductive
materials, and thus the amount of heat produced by the heating
device, will increase more rapidly when the heating device is
relatively cool (e.g., when the heating device is initially
activated) in comparison to conductive materials with generally
stable TCR values. Consequently, the temperature at or near the
heat transfer elements (e.g., fins) that are in thermal
communication with the conductive materials of the heater will
increase more rapidly than when conductive materials having more
stable TCR properties are used. This is schematically represented
by the M1 graph illustrated in FIG. 22C. In some embodiments, such
relatively unstable materials comprise a TCR value between about
1,500 and 5,000 ppm/.degree. C. or higher, such as, for example,
between about 1,500 and 3,500 ppm/.degree. C., between about 3,000
and 4,000 ppm/.degree. C. (e.g., about 3,300, 3,400 or 3,600
ppm/.degree. C.). Therefore, in circumstances where the voltage
supplied to a heating device is maintained constant or generally
constant, the use of such relatively unstable conductive materials
can provide a more robust relationship between heat production (and
thus, temperature along the heat transfer members of the heating
device) and time. Consequently, as illustrated in FIG. 22D, in some
circumstances, a target final temperature (T.sub.f), can be
achieved in a shorter time period, .DELTA.T.sub.1, by using
conductive materials having relatively unstable TCR values as
compared to using conductive materials having more stable TCR
values (e.g., .DELTA.T.sub.2>.DELTA.T.sub.1). This shorter time
period can be attributed, at least in part, on the higher power
output values exhibited by such conductive materials at the lower
operational temperature of a heating device. However, with
continued reference to FIGS. 22C and 22D, as long as the conductive
materials are selected for a target TCR at the high end of the
expected operational temperature range, the target maximum power
output and the final temperature T.sub.f can be achieved by the
heating device regardless of variations to such values that may
occur at lower temperatures.
[0124] The use of relatively unstable conductive materials, such
as, for example, materials having a TCR above about 1,500
ppm/.degree. C. (e.g., between about 3,000 and 4,000 ppm/.degree.
C.) can advantageously allow the heating device to heat up more
rapidly when the heating device is initially activated (e.g., when
the temperature of the heating device is identical or similar to
the ambient temperature). Accordingly, the seating assembly (e.g.,
vehicle seat, bed, etc.) and/or any other item or region that is
being selectively thermally-conditioned (e.g., convectively and/or
conductively) by the heating device can be warmed faster, providing
an enhanced or improved comfort level to an occupant, especially
when ambient temperatures are relatively cold. According to some
embodiments, the relatively unstable conductive materials include a
lower concentration of ruthenium than conductive materials having
relatively more stable TCR characteristics.
[0125] FIGS. 23 and 24 illustrate a fluid module 1002 that includes
a heating device 1010 configured to selectively heat air or other
fluids in accordance with the embodiments and features discussed
and illustrated herein. As shown, the fluid module 1002 can
comprise an outer housing 1003, 1004 that generally defines an
interior space. In the depicted arrangement, the module 1002
includes a first housing portion that is permanently or removably
joined to a second housing portion 1004 using one or more
connection devices or methods (e.g., screws, bolts, clips, other
fasteners, welds, adhesives and/or the like). Alternatively, the
housing can include more or fewer portions as desired or
required.
[0126] With continued reference to FIGS. 23 and 24, the fluid
module 1002 can include an interior cavity 1006 that is adapted to
receive a fan or other fluid transfer device. In addition, the
module 1002 can include an interior area 1008 that is sized, shaped
and otherwise configured to receive a heating device 1010.
Accordingly, ambient air or other fluid can be drawn into an inlet
of the module 1002 and selectively moved through the heating device
1010 and a downstream outlet 1009 by a fan or other fluid transfer
device. Thus, when the heating device 1010 is electrically
energized (e.g., when current is delivered to the heating device
1010), the air or other fluid passing therethrough can be
selectively heated, as desired or required. In other arrangements,
the heating device 1010 is not positioned within the fluid module
1002. Thus, the heating device 1010 can be located upstream or
downstream of a fluid module 1002, fluid transfer device and/or the
like. Regardless of the exact orientation of the various components
that comprise a fluid delivery system, air or other fluid can be
convectively heated as it is passed through a heater 1010.
[0127] As discussed, any of the various heating devices disclosed
herein can be used to provide thermally conditioned air or other
fluids to climate controlled seating assemblies (e.g., automobile
or other vehicle seats, office chairs, sofas, wheelchairs, theater
or stadium seats, other types of chairs, hospital or other medical
beds, standard beds, etc.) or other devices or assemblies.
[0128] FIG. 25 schematically illustrates one embodiment of a
climate controlled seat 1000 having a seat bottom portion S and
seat back portion B. The seat bottom portion S and/or the seat back
portion B can be configured to receive thermally-conditioned air or
other fluids. For example, as shown, each of the portions S, B can
include one or more internal fluid passages P and a flow
distribution/conditioning members D. Thus, air or other fluids
directed into a passage P of the seat back portion B and/or seat
bottom portion S by a fluid transfer device 1002A, 1002B can pass
through a downstream flow distribution/conditioning member D,
toward a seated occupant. A heating device 1010A, 1010B can be
positioned upstream or downstream of and/or within a fluid transfer
device 1002A, 1002B to selectively heat the air or other fluid
being delivered toward the occupant. As discussed herein, such
heating devices may include stand-alone devices with or without an
outer housing, outer wrap or other enclosure. Alternatively, a
heating device may be positioned within a housing of a module or
other component of a climate control system, as desired or
required.
[0129] The arrangement of a climate controlled seat assembly 1100
schematically depicted in FIG. 26 additionally includes a
controller C that is in electrical and/or data communication with
the fluid transfer devices 1102A, 1102B, heating devices 1110A,
1110B, sensors and/or any other component of the system. The
controller C can be configured to maintain a desired heating effect
or temperature setting along an exterior portion of the seat
assembly. Thus, the seat 1100 can include one or more temperature
sensors (not shown in FIG. 26) within its passages P, within its
flow distribution/conditioning members D, along selected areas of
the seat back portion B and/or seat bottom portion and/or the like.
In other embodiments, a climate controlled seating assembly can
include more or fewer (or different) components or features.
[0130] FIG. 27 schematically illustrates one embodiment of a fluid
heating device 1210 positioned within a portion of a seating
assembly 1200 (e.g., an automotive seat, chair, sofa, bed,
wheelchair, stadium seat, etc.). In the illustrated embodiment, the
heating device 1210 is situated in the seat back portion B of the
seating assembly 1200. As shown, a fluid transfer device 1202 can
be used to draw air or other fluid into an inlet duct I. The air
can then be transferred by energy imparted on it by the fluid
transfer device 1202 (e.g., fan, blower, etc.) to a discharge
conduit P or other passage. Air delivered into the discharge
conduit P can be channeled through one or more heating devices 1210
where it is selectively heated to a desired level. Heated air or
other fluid exiting the heating device 1210 can be directed to one
or more portions of the seating assembly 1200. For example, in the
illustrated embodiment, heated air is directed to the headrest
region of the seat back portion B of the seat. In some
arrangements, the heated air is incorporated into a neck or head
warmer. In other arrangements, the heating system does not include
an inlet duct I or other similar member. Thus, air or other fluid
can be drawn directly into an inlet of a fluid transfer device 1202
(e.g., blower, fan, etc.).
[0131] In other embodiments, a heating system can be configured to
provide spot heating to one or more other locations of an
automobile interior (e.g., leg area, feet area, headliner, visor,
A, B or C pillars, etc.), a building interior (e.g., ottoman, leg
rest, bed, etc.) and/or the like. In still other embodiments,
heated air can be delivered to and distributed through a larger
area of a seat back portion B and/or a seat bottom portion S of a
seating assembly. Therefore, a fluid heating device can be
incorporated into a seat warming system. For example, a
distribution system (FIGS. 25 and 26) positioned downstream or
upstream of a heating device can be configured to deliver heated
air through one or more cushioned areas of the seat back portion B
and/or the seat bottom portion S of seating assembly. Further, such
fluid heating devices and systems can be used to "spot warm"
particular targeted regions of a seating assembly. For example, in
some embodiments, a seating assembly comprising such a heating
device can be configured to selectively deliver heated air to one
or more locations. As discussed, such seating assemblies may be
equipped with a control system to allow a user to choose where
(and/or to what extent) heated air is delivered.
[0132] FIGS. 28A and 28B schematically illustrate one embodiment of
an upper portion U of a climate controlled bed assembly 1300. In
the depicted embodiment, the upper portion U comprises a core R
which includes four internal passageways P through its depth. As
shown, the passageways P can have a generally cylindrical shape.
However, the passageways P can include any other cross-sectional
shape, such as, for example, square, rectangular, triangular, other
polygonal, oval, irregular and/or the like. Further, in some
arrangements, the passageways P are symmetrically arranged along
the core R. This can allow the upper portion U to be rotated
relative to the lower portion (not shown) while still allowing the
passageways P to generally align with any fluid modules 1310
positioned within a lower portion. Alternatively, the passageways P
of the core R can include a non-symmetrical orientation. Further,
in other embodiments, the core R includes more or fewer than four
internal passageways P, as desired or required by a particular
application or use. In addition, the size, shape, spacing,
orientation and/or any other details of the passageways P and/or
the core R can be different than illustrated or discussed
herein.
[0133] The core R can comprise one or more materials or components,
such as, for example, foam, other thermoplastics, filler materials,
air chambers, springs and/or the like. Although not illustrated in
FIGS. 28A and 28B, the upper portion U is preferably positioned on
a lower portion. The passageways P of the core R can be configured
to generally align with openings in the lower portion so as to
place the passageways P in fluid communication with one or more
fluid modules (e.g., fans, blowers, etc.). A heating device 1310 in
accordance with one of the embodiments disclosed herein may be
positioned within, upstream and/or downstream of each fluid module
1302, as desired or required. Thus, as shown, air or other fluids
can be heated before or while being conveyed through the
passageways P of the core R, toward one or more layers or
components situated above the core R.
[0134] For example, as illustrated in FIG. 28B, heated air or other
fluids can be directed from the passageways P into a fluid
distribution member D (e.g., spacer, spacer fabric or other
material) or any other member that is generally configured to help
receive and distribute air or other fluid along a desired top area
of the bed 1300. From the fluid distribution member D, heated air
or other fluid can pass through one or more layers or members
located along the top of the bed 1300. By way of example, in FIG.
28B, the upper portion U comprises a comfort layer T (e.g., quilt
layer) that is configured to allow air or other fluid to diffuse
through it. The top portion of the bed can comprise one or more
other comfort layers, fluid distribution members and/or the like,
to achieve a desired feel (e.g., firmness), comfort level, fluid
distribution scheme, other effect and/or the like.
[0135] FIG. 29 is a cross-sectional view along the circumferential
edge of one embodiment of a fan 1402 or other fluid transfer
device. Because of the generally rotational symmetry of the fan
1402 around a central axis, FIG. 29 shows approximately only one
half of the fan 1402. The housing 1403 of the fluid transfer device
1402 can comprise a top portion and a bottom portion. In the
illustrated arrangement, a flow director F is disposed between the
top and bottom portions of the housing 1403. A motor-impeller
assembly 1405 can be centrally mounted within the cavity defined by
the housing 1403. As shown, a heating device 1410, in accordance
with any of the embodiments disclosed herein or equivalents
thereof, can be positioned within the housing 1403 of the fluid
transfer device 1402. Thus, as air or other fluids enter into the
cavity of the fan 1402, they can be directed by the moving impeller
1405 through the heating device and toward the outer periphery of
the housing 1403. In the illustrated embodiment, flow exiting the
heating device 1410 is divided by the flow director F. However, in
other embodiments, such as the one illustrated in FIG. 30, the
entire or substantially the entire portion of heated air or other
fluid exiting the heating device 1510 is directed to a single fan
outlet.
[0136] With continued reference to FIG. 29, the heating device 1410
comprises a heater 1420 generally positioned between upper and
lower heat transfer assemblies 1450, 1460. Alternatively, as
depicted in FIG. 30, a fan 1502 or other fluid transfer device can
comprise a heating device 1510 that includes a heater 1520 attached
to only a single heat transfer assembly 1550. In other embodiments,
the heating device 1410, 1510 includes a unitary heater/heat
transfer assembly as discussed herein with reference to FIGS.
16-19. The interior cavity of the fan housing can be shaped, sized
and otherwise configured to receive one or more heating devices
1410, 1510. According to some arrangements, a housing can be
adapted to receive one, two or more heating devices to achieve a
desired heating effect. In other arrangements, a fan or other fluid
transfer device includes both heating devices and one or more other
fluid conditioning devices that are configured to selectively heat
and/or cool air or other fluids (e.g., Peltier devices, other
thermoelectric devices, other heating or cooling devices,
etc.).
[0137] Any of the embodiments of a heating device disclosed herein,
or equivalents thereof, can be used in conjunction with a
thermoelectric device (e.g., Peltier device) and/or any other
thermal-conditioning device. Thus, a climate control system of a
seating assembly can include a thermoelectric device and/or a
heating device, as desired or required. Further, a climate control
system can be adapted to simply provide air or other fluids to one
or more portions of a seat assembly that are not thermally
conditioned (e.g., ambient air for ventilation purposes only).
Accordingly, a climate control system that incorporates a heating
device according to any of the embodiments disclosed herein can be
adapted to selectively provide heated air by activating the heating
device and delivering air or other fluids through it. However, the
same climate control system can provide non-thermally conditioned
air by delivering air or other fluids (e.g., via a fluid transfer
device) while the heating device is deactivated. Thus, ventilated
air or other fluids can be delivered to a climate controlled seat
assembly to provide some level of comfort to a seated occupant.
[0138] Additional disclosure regarding climate-controlled seats,
beds and other assemblies is provided in U.S. patent application
Ser. No. 08/156,562 filed Nov. 22, 1993 (U.S. Pat. No. 5,597,200);
Ser. No. 08/156,052 filed Nov. 22, 1993 (U.S. Pat. No. 5,524,439);
Ser. No. 10/853,779 filed May 25, 2004 (U.S. Pat. No. 7,114,771);
Ser. No. 10/973,947 filed Oct. 25, 2004 (U.S. Publ. No.
2006/0087160); Ser. No. 11/933,906 filed Nov. 1, 2007 (U.S. Publ.
No. 2008/0100101); Ser. No. 11/872,657 filed Oct. 15, 2007 (U.S.
Publ. No. Ser. No. 2008/0148481); Ser. No. 12/049,120 filed Mar.
14, 2008 (U.S. Publ. No. 2008/0223841); Ser. No. 12/178,458 filed
Jul. 23, 2008; Ser. No. 12/208,254 filed Sep. 10, 2008 (U.S. Publ.
No. 2009/0064411); Ser. No. 12/505,355 filed Jul. 17, 2009 (U.S.
Publ. No. 2010/0011502); and U.S. Provisional Application No.
61/238,655 filed Aug. 31, 2009, all of which are hereby
incorporated by reference herein in their entireties.
[0139] To assist in the description of the disclosed embodiments,
words such as upward, upper, bottom, downward, lower, rear, front,
vertical, horizontal, upstream, downstream have been used above to
describe different embodiments and/or the accompanying figures. It
will be appreciated, however, that the different embodiments,
whether illustrated or not, can be located and oriented in a
variety of desired positions.
[0140] Although the subject matter provided in this application has
been disclosed in the context of certain specific embodiments and
examples, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that
the inventions disclosed in this application extend beyond the
specifically disclosed embodiments to other alternative embodiments
and/or uses of the subject matter disclosed herein and obvious
modifications and equivalents thereof. In addition, while a number
of variations of the inventions have been shown and described in
detail, other modifications, which are within the scope of these
inventions, 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 inventions disclosed herein. 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 inventions. Thus, it
is intended that the scope of the subject matter provided in the
present application 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.
* * * * *