U.S. patent application number 15/129649 was filed with the patent office on 2017-06-22 for heating and cooling device for handles, especially of steering mechanism.
This patent application is currently assigned to GENTHERM AUTOMOTIVE SYSTEMS (CHINA) LTD.. The applicant listed for this patent is GENTHERM AUTOMOTIVE SYSTEMS (CHINA) LTD.. Invention is credited to Melinda Meijing Hu, Dmitri Kossakovsk, Fred Fufei Zhang, Jonathan Yu Zhang.
Application Number | 20170174247 15/129649 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 54239395 |
Filed Date | 2017-06-22 |
United States Patent
Application |
20170174247 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Kossakovsk; Dmitri ; et
al. |
June 22, 2017 |
HEATING AND COOLING DEVICE FOR HANDLES, ESPECIALLY OF STEERING
MECHANISM
Abstract
The present invention refers to a climate control device (15)
for influencing at least one climatic parameter of a handle (5) of
a steering device (2).
Inventors: |
Kossakovsk; Dmitri; (South
Pasadena, CA) ; Zhang; Jonathan Yu; (Tianjin, CN)
; Zhang; Fred Fufei; (Langfang, Hebei, CN) ; Hu;
Melinda Meijing; (Langfang, US) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
GENTHERM AUTOMOTIVE SYSTEMS (CHINA) LTD. |
Langfang, Hebei |
|
CN |
|
|
Assignee: |
GENTHERM AUTOMOTIVE SYSTEMS (CHINA)
LTD.
Langfang, Hebei
CN
|
Family ID: |
54239395 |
Appl. No.: |
15/129649 |
Filed: |
March 31, 2015 |
PCT Filed: |
March 31, 2015 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/CN2015/075451 |
371 Date: |
September 27, 2016 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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PCT/CN2014/074450 |
Mar 31, 2014 |
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15129649 |
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PCT/CN2014/088910 |
Oct 20, 2014 |
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PCT/CN2014/074450 |
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62076107 |
Nov 6, 2014 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B60H 1/00292 20130101;
B60H 1/00478 20130101; B60H 2001/003 20130101; B62D 1/065
20130101 |
International
Class: |
B62D 1/06 20060101
B62D001/06; B60H 1/00 20060101 B60H001/00 |
Claims
1. (canceled)
2. A climate control device for influencing at least one climatic
parameter of a handle of a steering device, the climate control
device having: an air moving device for providing a stream of air;
a handle distributor for distributing the stream of air within at
least a part of the handle; an air guidance device for guiding air
between the air moving device and the handle distributor: wherein
the air moving device can be or is mounted to an area remaining
static in relation to an adjustment movement of the steering
device; the handle distributor can be or is mounted to an area
moving in relation to the static area, when the steering device is
subject to an adjustment movement; and the climate control device
is provided with a connecting device, allowing the air moving
device and the handle distributor to move in relation to each
other.
3. The climate control device according to claim 2, wherein the
connecting device allows a rotation of the handle device of at
least 180.degree. around a pivot pole of the steering device.
4. The climate control device according to claim 2, wherein the
connecting device is provided with a ring-like connector channel
arranged concentrically in relation toward an axis of the pivot
pole.
5. The climate control device according to claim 2, wherein the
climate control device includes at least two interfaces that create
two air paths for allowing an exchange of at least two air streams
between a handle distributor and at least one connector device, at
least a first air stream being directed toward the handle
distributor and at least a second air stream being directed away
from the handle distributor.
6. The climate control device according to claim 5, wherein the
climate control device is provided with at least one thermoelectric
device, representing at least a part of a temperature-control
device, at least a first air path is provided for moving a first
air stream along a first side of the thermoelectric device, and at
least a second air path is provided to moving a second air stream
along a second side of the thermoelectric device, the first side
and the second side having a different temperature during at least
one mode of operation.
7. The climate control device according to claim 2, wherein the air
moving device is provided with a first air exchange opening, which
is connected via at least one supply duct and the connecting device
with the handle distributor, the air moving device is provided with
a second air exchange opening, the climate control device is
provided with at least one recirculation duct which connects the
handle distributor via the connecting device with the second air
intake opening, the climate control device therefore is provided
with a channel loop, circulating air between the air moving device,
the thermoelectric device and the handle distributor.
8. A climate control device for influencing at least one climatic
parameter of a handle of a steering device, the climate control
device comprising: a. one or more connecting devices located
between and fluidly connecting a static component with a movable
component, the connecting device including: i. a static part and
ii. a movable part that are fluidly connected together and create
one or more channels each having an inlet from the static component
to the movable component; b. one or more air movers located within
the static component and being in fluid communication with the
movable component through the one or more connecting devices; and
wherein the movable part of the one or more connecting devices
moves with the movable component so that each of the inlets have a
static relationship with the movable component as the movable
component is moved.
9. The climate control device of claim 8, wherein the one or more
connecting devices have one or more channels each having an outlet
that connects the movable component to the static component so that
a fluid can be moved towards the static component from the movable
component.
10. The climate control device of claim 8, wherein each of the
channels are discrete from one another and are not in fluid
communication.
11. The climate control device of claim 8, wherein the climate
control device includes two discrete halves that are separated by a
dividing wall.
12. The climate control device of claim 8, wherein an air guidance
device is connected to each of the inlets and each of the outlets
for guiding air between the static component and the movable
component.
13. The climate control device of claim 8, wherein one or more
seals are located between the static part and the movable part and
the one or more seals form a fluid barrier and create a bearing
surface of the movable part to move about the static part.
14. The climate control device of claim 8, wherein the connecting
device includes one or more end walls include one or more end walls
and the end walls include one or more of the inlets or outlets.
15. The climate control device of claim 8, wherein the static
component is a steering column and the movable component is a
steering wheel.
16. A handle, vehicle, or steering mechanism, equipped with at
least one climate control device according to claim 8.
17. The climate control device of claim 9, wherein each of the
channels are discrete from one another and are not in fluid
communication.
18. The climate control device of claim 17, wherein the climate
control device includes two discrete halves that are separated by a
dividing wall.
19. The climate control device of claim 18, wherein an air guidance
device is connected to each of the inlets and each of the outlets
for guiding air between the static component and the movable
component.
20. The climate control device of claim 19, wherein one or more
seals are located between the static part and the movable part and
the one or more seals form a fluid barrier and create a bearing
surface of the movable part to move about the static part.
21. The climate control device of claim 20, wherein the connecting
device includes one or more end walls and the end walls include one
or more of the inlets or outlets.
Description
FIELD
[0001] An object according to the present invention is a heating
and cooling device for handles and steering mechanisms for
influencing at least one climatic parameter. It can, for example,
be used in the heating, cooling or ventilation of handles of
vehicle doors, steering wheels or control sticks.
PRIOR ART
[0002] It is known from U.S. Pat. No. 5,850,741 to cool a steering
wheel by integrating heat pipes into the steering wheel. As the
steering wheel has to meet a number of critical conditions, like
crash-safety, stability, good grip for hands of different size or
strength, it is difficult to put such a system into practice.
SUBJECT OF THE INVENTION
[0003] With this as background, a technical concept according to
claim 1 is suggested.
[0004] The invention refers to a device that provides fluid to a
movable component. The invention refers to a climate control device
that has components located in a static component and components
located within a movable component and a device for fluidly
connecting the movable component and the static component without
the movement of the movable component inhibiting fluid movement.
The invention refers to a device that fluidly connects a movable
component to a static component and eliminates fluid lines that
move with and relative to the movable component.
[0005] In detail a technical concept as is suggested herein is a
climate control device for influencing at least one climatic
parameter of a handle of a steering device, the climate control
device having an air moving device or providing a stream of air; a
handle distributor for distributing a stream of air within at least
a part of the handle; an air guidance device for guiding air
between the air moving device and the distributor, wherein the air
moving device can be or is mounted to an area remaining static in
relation to an adjustment movement of the steering device; the
handle distributor can be or is mounted to an area moving in
relation to the static area, when the steering device is subject to
an adjustment movement and; the climate control device is provided
with a connecting device, allowing the air moving device and the
handle distributor to move in relation to each other.
[0006] The present teachings provide a climate control device (15)
comprising: (a) one or more connecting devices (30, 60, 134)
located between and fluidly connecting a static component with a
movable component (2), the connecting device includes: (i) a static
part (62) and (ii) a movable part (64) that are fluidly connected
together and create one or more channels (33, 34, 37, 37', 72) each
having an inlet from the static component (110) to the movable
component (2); (b) one or more air movers located within the static
component and being in fluid communication with the movable
component (2) through the one or more connecting devices; and
wherein the movable part of the one or more connecting devices
moves with the movable component so that each of the inlets have a
static relationship with the movable component as the movable
component is moved.
[0007] The present teachings herein provide for a handle, vehicle
or steering mechanism, equipped with at least one device according
to any of the teachings herein.
[0008] The invention relates to a device for influencing at least
one climatic parameter. If the device for influencing a zone to be
gripped is provided, then surfaces touched by the user, especially
handles, can be suitably temperature-controlled, especially
steering wheels, door handles, steps, operating handles of
machines, etc. The surfaces touched may be controlled by
circulating a fluid under the surface so that temperature is
removed through conduction, circulating a fluid over the surface so
that temperature is removed through convection, or both.
[0009] If the device has or is a heating, ventilation or cooling
device, then, depending on the requirement, the temperature, the
humidity or the air composition at the handle can be adjusted.
[0010] In addition, the invention relates to a handle, a vehicle or
a steering device. If these are equipped with a device described
above, this improves its capacity for use under climatically
unfavorable conditions.
[0011] The present teachings provide a device that provides fluid
to a movable component. The present teachings provide a climate
control device that has components located in a static component
and components located within a movable component and the device
for fluidly connecting the movable component and the static
component without the movement of the movable component inhibiting
fluid movement The present teachings provide a device that fluidly
connects a movable component to a static component and eliminates
fluid lines that move with and relative to the movable
component.
[0012] Additional advantageous embodiments can be gleaned from the
additional claims and the specification that follows.
[0013] The present invention especially relates to a climate
control device 15 for influencing at least one climatic parameter
of a handle 5 of a steering device 2, the climate control device 15
having [0014] an air moving device 21 for providing a stream of air
[0015] a handle distributor 26 for distributing a stream of air
within at least a part of the handle 5 [0016] an air guidance
device 22 for guiding air between the air moving device 21 and the
distributor 26.
[0017] It is suggested that [0018] the air moving device 21 can be
or is mounted to an area remaining static in relation to an
adjustment movement of the steering device 2 [0019] the handle
distributor 26 can be or is mounted to an area moving in relation
to the static area, when the steering device 2 is subject to an
adjustment movement and [0020] the climate control device 15 is
provided with a connecting device 30, allowing the air moving
device 21 and the handle distributor 26 to move in relation to each
other.
[0021] This allows e. g. rotation and ventilation of a handle
without integration of voluminous parts into the handle. The
movable component (e.g., handle, steering device, or both) are free
of an air mover, a peltier device, an air conditioning module, or a
combination thereof.
[0022] It is further suggested that the connecting device 30 allows
a rotation of the handle device 26 of at least about 180.degree.,
preferably at least about 270', or even more preferably at least
about 360.degree. a pivot pole 3 of the steering device 2. That e.
g. can be reached by providing an interface 40 that allows a
shifting of at least two air guidance components relative to each
other. For that purpose it is further suggested that the connecting
device 30 is provided with ring-like connector channel 37 arranged
concentrically in relation toward an axis of the pivot pole 3.
[0023] It can be helpful if the climate control device 15 is
provided with at least two interfaces 40, 40' to create two air
paths for allowing an exchange of at least two air streams between
a handle distributor 26 and at least one connector device 30, at
least a first air stream being directed toward the handle
distributor 26 and at least a second air stream being directed away
from the handle distributor 26. This allows efficient temperature
control without blowing exhaust air toward a user.
[0024] It can be preferred that [0025] the climate control device
15 is provided with at least one thermoelectric device,
representing a temperature-control device 17, [0026] at least a
first air path is provided for moving a first air stream along a
first side of the temperature-control device 17 and [0027] at least
a second air path is provided to moving a second air stream along a
second side of the temperature-control device 17, the first side
and the second side having a different temperature during at least
one mode of operation.
[0028] This allows efficient distribution within the handle
distributor simultaneously with a simple operation of a thermal
device.
[0029] A handle, vehicle, or steering mechanism, equipped with at
least one climate control device 15 provides good thermal comfort,
while ensuring safety operation and compact packaging.
FIGURES
[0030] In what follows, the particulars of the invention are
explained. These embodiments should make the invention
understandable. However, they are of only an exemplary nature.
Naturally, within the framework of the invention defined by the
independent claims, certain individual or multiple features
described can be left out, altered or supplemented. Also, the
features of differing embodiment forms could be combined with each
other. What is decisive is that the concept of the invention is
implemented in its essence. If one feature is to be implemented at
least partially, then it includes this feature being implemented
fully also, or being essentially implemented in full. "Essentially"
especially means that the implementation permits the desired
feature to be attained to a perceptible degree. This can especially
mean that a corresponding feature is attained at least by 50%, 90%,
95% or 99%. If a minimum amount is indicated, then naturally more
than this minimum amount can also be used. If the number of a
component is indicated by at least one or by indefinite article,
then this especially includes embodiment forms also with two, three
or some other plurality of components. What is described for one
object can also be applied for the preponderant part of the
totality of all other objects identical in nature. If nothing
otherwise is indicated, intervals include their end points. In what
follows, reference is made to:
[0031] FIG. 1 illustrates a vehicle 1 with a heated and cooled
steering device in a partial longitudinal section.
[0032] FIG. 2 illustrates a steering device from FIG. 1, in a side
view with an air-distribution device under a removed cover.
[0033] FIG. 3 is an enlarged side view of the steering device of
FIG. 2 with the side covers completely removed.
[0034] FIG. 4 is a top view on an open steering wheel of FIGS.
1-3.
[0035] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of an explosion view on an air
flow connection device for the steering wheel of FIGS. 1-4.
[0036] FIG. 6 is an enlarged cross-section of the air flow
connection device of FIG. 5.
[0037] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the air flow connection
device of FIGS. 5 and 6 from a different angle.
[0038] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a further embodiment of the
climate control device, mounted below a steering wheel and having
two air moving devices and a fluid loop between the handle and one
air moving device.
[0039] FIG. 9 is a perspective part explosion view of a first air
moving device and an air intake device for the climate control
device of FIG. 8.
[0040] FIG. 10 illustrates an exploded view of a connecting
device.
[0041] FIG. 11 illustrates a partial section view of the connecting
device of FIG. 10.
[0042] FIG. 12 illustrates a perspective view of the connecting
device of FIG. 10 assembled with a steering wheel.
[0043] FIG. 13 shows an exploded view on the connecting device with
steering wheel of FIG. 12.
[0044] FIG. 14 shows an exploded view on the connecting device with
steering wheel of FIG. 12 from a different angle.
[0045] FIG. 15 is a perspective view of an explosion view on an air
flow connection device for the steering wheel of FIGS. 1-4,
conforming to the to the embodiment of FIGS. 5-7, just without
bearing elements
[0046] FIG. 16 is an enlarged cross-section of the air flow
connection device of FIG. 15.
[0047] FIG. 17 is a perspective view of the air flow connection
device of FIGS. 15 and 16 from a different angle.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0048] The invention related especially to a vehicle 1 as per FIG.
1. A vehicle means a device for transport of persons and/or
freight, such as vehicles on land, water, railways and in the air,
especially aircraft, ships and automotive vehicles.
[0049] The present teachings relate to providing conditioning to
one or more movable components. The conditioning may function to
remove heat, remove humidity, apply heat, create turbulence, or a
combination thereof in and/or around a movable component. The
conditioning may provide comfort to an occupant. The conditioning
may remove air and/or moisture from an occupant. The conditioning
may be provided to an occupant and moist and/or heated air may be
removed from the occupant. The conditioning may heat and/or cool
through convection (i.e., moving a fluid over an outside of an
occupant contact area), through conduction (i.e., moving a fluid
through an inside of an occupant contact area), or a combination of
both. The conditioning may be provided to an occupant contact
location, a piece of equipment that is movable, or both. The
movable component as taught herein may be a component that is
longitudinally movable, rotationally movable, laterally movable, or
a combination thereof. A steering wheel is one preferred component.
The one or more movable components may move with, along, or
relative to one or more stationary components. The one or more
movable components may be any of the steering devices discussed
herein, a shifter, or both. The one or more movable components may
be in connection with a connecting device.
[0050] The one or more connecting devices may function to connect a
stationary component to a movable component. The one or more
connecting devices may function to allow a fluid to move from a
stationary component to a movable component while preventing fluid
channels, fluid lines, air guidance devices, supply lines, or a
combination thereof (hereinafter all of which are referred to as
air guidance devices) form bending, kinking, breaking, being
rotated, being stretched, or a combination thereof. The one or more
connecting devices may function to allow the one or more air
guidance devices and preferably a plurality of air guidance devices
to remain static relative to the movable component while the
movable component rotates and/or moves. The connecting devices may
function to allow relative movement of some of the air guide
devices relative to a stationary component while holding the air
guidance devices static relative to the movable component. The
connecting device may have a fluid channel that extends
therethrough and connects air guidance devices on the static
component with air guidance devices on the movable component. The
connecting device may allow fluid to pass between a static
component and a movable component without any air guidance devices
(e.g., lines). The connecting device may have one or more chambers
that receive fluid (i.e., connector channels). The connecting
device may have one or more fluid paths so that fluid extends from
a static component to a movable component. The connecting device
may provide one or more sealed chambers that allow fluid to pass
between air guidance devices without the air guidance devices being
directly subjected to movement of the movable component. The one or
more connecting one or more dividing walls, one or more end walls,
or both.
[0051] The one or more dividing walls may function to separate one
or more channels. The one or more dividing walls may function to
create one or more discrete channels. The one or more dividing
walls may be an internal wall. The one or more dividing walls may
include one or more through holes that extend therethrough. The one
or more dividing walls may extend longitudinally, radially, or
both. The one or more dividing walls may be located proximate to
and/or be located within one or more end walls.
[0052] The one or more end walls may function to seal the
connecting device. The one or more end walls may function to
connect to one or more air guidance devices. The one or more end
walls may function to create ends of a channel. The one or more end
walls may be an external wall. The one or more end walls may be
part of the static part, the movable parts, or both. The connecting
devices may include one or more movable parts and one or more
static parts that form one or more connector channels there
between.
[0053] The one or more movable parts may function to move with a
movable component. The one or more movable parts may function to
move relative to a static part, a static component, or both. The
one or more movable parts may function to form a static connection
with one or more air guidance devices located in the movable
component. The one or more movable parts may allow for rotational
movement, longitudinal movement, lateral movement, or a combination
thereof without loss of fluid movement. The one or more movable
parts may have one or more surfaces that contact a static part,
contact one or more bearings, contact one or more seals, form a
bearing surface, or a combination thereof. The one or more movable
parts may seal a static part, be sealed by a static part, or a
combination of both. The one or more movable parts may form one or
more surfaces that enclose a chamber and/or channel (e.g., supply
channels through channels, and/or connector channels as discussed
herein). The one or more movable parts may be generally
cylindrical, square, rectangular, round, circular, toroidally
shaped, or a combination thereof. The one or more movable parts may
longitudinally slide along a static part and one or more channels
may extend between the static part and movable part. The one or
more channels may be in a central location of the static part and
the movable part may move so that the movable part is always is
fluid communication with the one or more channels. The one or more
movable parts may extend fully or partially around an outside of a
static part. The one or more movable parts may create all or a
portion of a channel (e.g., a supply channel, a collector channel,
a connector channel, or a combination thereof). The one or more
movable parts may extend into a static part. The one or more
movable parts may receive a portion of a static part to form a
seal. The one or more movable parts may be separated by one or more
seals (e.g., a gasket, a rubber piece, an "0" ring, or a
combination thereof). The one or more movable parts may include one
or more air inlets, one or more air outlets, or both. The one or
more movable parts may include 2 or more, 3 or more, 4 or more air
inlets. The one or more movable parts may include 2 or more, 3 or
more, or 4 or more air outlets. The one or more movable parts may
include a plurality of air inlets, a plurality of air outlets, or
both. The air inlets, the air outlets, or both may be connected to
air guidance devices. The air inlets, the air outlets or both may
be in communication with a supply channel in the connecting device.
The supply channel may be in fluid communication between the
movable part and the static part. The supply channel may extend
substantially from a first end to substantially a second end. The
supply channel may extend about half of the length of the movable
part, the static part, or both. The supply channel may be a through
channel that extends from a first side to a second side or from a
first half to a second half of the movable part. The through
channel may extend through a dividing wall, a portion of the static
part, or both. The supply channel may extend substantially the
entire length of the movable part, the static part, or both. The
one or more movable parts may extend around one or more static
parts or vice versa.
[0054] The one or more static parts may function to connect to a
steering rod and/or steering device and permit for movement of the
steering rod and/or steering device relative to a static component.
The one or more static parts may function to connect to one or more
air guidance devices extending from the static component, the
movable component, or both. The one or more static parts may
include a shaft aperture to connect to a shaft of a steering
device. The one or more static parts may function to create a
portion of a supply channel, connector channel, or both. The one or
more static parts may create a longitudinal channel, a lateral
channel, a radial channel, or a combination thereof. The static
part may include one or more channels (e.g., a supply channel and a
collector channel). The static part be connected to a static
component and a movable component and/or part may move about the
static part. The static part may have a movable component that
moves within the static part. The static part may form a fixed
connection with one or more air guidance devices. The static part
may connect with air guidance devices that inlet a fluid, outlet a
fluid, or both. The static part may have a series of concentric
channels. The static part may have channels that are circular,
generally "L" shaped, square, rectangular, or a combination
thereof. The static part may have channels that extend parallel to
an axis of a movable component. The static part may have channels
that extend outward around an axis of the movable component. The
one or more static parts may have one or more through channels that
extend from a first side of the static part to the second side of
the static part. For example, the static part may include a through
channel that extend from a first half through a divider to a second
half. The static part and movable part may be separated by one or
more seals, one or more bearings, one or more gaskets, one or more
"O" rings, or a combination thereof. The static part and movable
part may be connected together to form a supply portion, a receiver
portion, or both.
[0055] The one or more supply portions may function to move air
towards the steering device. The one or more supply portions may
remain static, allow fluid to move between a movable component and
a static component, or both. The one or more supply portions may
permit air to move through a component without being located within
an air guidance device. The one or more supply portions may guide
air from an air mover to an occupant contact area, a location
proximate to an occupant contact area, or both.
[0056] The one or more supply portions may supply air and direct
air towards the steering device. The one or more supply portions
may be part of the static part, the movable part, or both.
Preferably, the supply portions are part of the static part. The
supply portions may extend into the receiver portion to form a
connection between the static part and the movable part. The one or
more supply portions may be located proximate to and/or opposite
one or more receiver portions. Preferably, the one or more supply
portions are fluidly discrete from the one or more supply
portions.
[0057] The one or more receiver portions may function to waste air,
recirculate air to an air mover, remove air from a steering device,
or a combination thereof. The one or more receiver portions may
connect to a channel in a connecting device that directs air away
from an occupant contact area. The one or more receive portions may
connect a return circuit to the connecting device so that air
and/or a fluid is returned back towards the air mover. The one or
more receiver portion may be a portion of the movable part, the
static part, or both that receives a portion of the supply portion.
Preferably, the receiver portion is part of the movable part and
receives a portion of the static part. The receiver portion may
receive the supply portion so that a connecting device is formed.
The receiver portion may include a supply channel, a portion of a
supply channel, or both.
[0058] The one or more supply channels may function to provide air
from an air mover through the connecting device. The one or more
supply channels may be a fluid path through a connecting device.
The one or more supply channels may be free of any lines, tubes,
hoses, or a combination thereof. The one or more supply channels
may replace a line, tube, hose, or a combination thereof. The one
or more supply channels may extend towards the occupant contact
areas from an air mover. The one or more supply channels may
connect to air guidance devices that extend from the air mover
towards the occupant contact areas, from the connecting device
towards the occupant contact areas, or both. The one or more supply
channels may have a portion that is fully enclosed within the
static part, the movable part, or both. The one or more supply
channels may have a portion that is formed between the static part,
the movable part, or both. The one or more supply channels may have
a portion that is formed between the static part and the movable
part, a portion that is fully formed in the static part, a portion
that is fully formed within the movable part, or a combination
thereof. Preferably, the connecting device includes a plurality of
supply channels. The connecting device may include one or more
collector channels.
[0059] The one or more collector channels may function to create a
fluid pressure within the connecting device. The one or more
collector channels may function to permit movement of a fluid to
the steering device, away from the steering device, or both. The
one or more collector channels may allow air to move without a
hose, tube, line, or a combination thereof. The one or more
collector channels may be channels that allow air to move away from
the steering device, an occupant contact area, or both. The one or
more collector channels may be one half of a channel within the
connecting device. The one or more collector channels may be a
portion located in a static part, a movable part, or both. The
connecting device may include a plurality of collector channels.
The collector channel may be part of the receive portion, the
supply portion, or both. The collector channel may be combined with
the supply channel to form a complete channel. Preferably, the
supply channel and the collector channel are discrete. More
preferably, the supply channel connects to an air inlet and
supplies air and the collector channel connects to an air outlet
and removes air.
[0060] The one or more air outlets may function to direct air from
the connecting device towards a steering device, towards an
occupant contact area, away from a steering device, away from an
occupant contact area, or a combination thereof. The one or more
air outlets may be located in the static part, the movable part, or
both. The one or more air outlets may be located in the static part
and moved relative to the movable part or vice versa. The one or
more air outlets may move air away from the connecting device, may
receive air into the connecting device, or both. The one or more
air outlets may provide air from the connecting device to an
occupant contact area, to a steering device, or both. The one or
more air outlets may provide air from the connecting device to a
waste area, an air mover, or both. The one or more air outlets may
each connect to one connector channel.
[0061] The one or more connector channels may be the channels
located within the connecting device. The one or more connector
channels may function to provide air from a static component to a
movable component. The one or more connector channels may include
and/or be a supply channel, a collector channel, or both. The one
or more connector channels may be ring shaped, "L" shaped, square,
straight, angled, arcuate, or a combination thereof. The one or
more connector channels may have a cross-section that is square,
rectangular, triangular, narrow, or a combination thereof. The one
or more connector channels may extend between a static component
and a movable component so that air flows therebetween. The one or
more connector channels may have air flow from an air mover towards
an occupant contact area or vice versa.
[0062] The interface may function to be a junction between two
parts of the connecting device. The interface may function to be a
connection region between two or more parts of the connecting
device. The interface may function to connect and/or be a
connection region between a movable part and a static part of the
connecting device. The interface may function form a joint between
two or more parts of the connecting device (e.g., a movable part
and a static part). The interface may be a location of contact
between two or more parts. The interface may be contact locations,
seals between parts, or both. The interface may form a connection
between two or more parts of the connecting device so that a sealed
connecting device is formed. The interface may be points of
contact, lines of contact, or both. The interface may be at ends of
the connecting device, in a middle of the connecting device, around
a periphery of the connecting device, around a plurality of
peripheries of the connecting device, or a combination thereof. For
example, the connecting device may include a plurality of channels
and the interfaces may form a seal so that the plurality of
channels are fluidly discrete from each other. The interface may be
located proximate to the air guidance devices, may form a seal so
that fluid from the air guidance devices does not leak, or
both.
[0063] The one or more air guidance devices may function to provide
an air path from a static component to a movable component. The one
or more air guidance devices may function to connect a static
component to a connecting device, from a connecting device to a
movable component, or both. The one or more air guidance devices
may be a tube, hose, line, or a combination thereof. The one or
more air guidance devices may be any conduit that transports a
fluid between locations. The one or more air guidance devices may
be rigid, semi-rigid, preferably flexible, or a combination
thereof. The one or more air guidance devices may be rubber,
elastic, fiber reinforced, metallic, metallic reinforced, nylon
reinforced, stainless steel, or a combination thereof. The one or
more air guidance devices may remain static relative to the
component which they are located within, connected to, or both. The
one or more air guidance devices may guide air from an air mover to
a location of interest, from a location of interest to an air
mover, or both.
[0064] The invention additionally relates to a steering device 2,
such as steering wheels of motor vehicles as per FIG. 2, control
sticks or aircraft or drag links of motorcycles.
[0065] Preferably the at least one control mechanism has a pivot
pole 3. Pivot pole means the reference point or the reference axis
about which a steering mechanism is moved to generate a steering
signal. Examples are a so-called front end for a motorcycle
steering bar or the steering wheel cup with a steering wheel, a
centering point with a multidimensional-operation control stick or
some other reference point with a nonrotary-operating steering
system such as slide controls.
[0066] Preferably the at least one steering mechanism has at least
one handle 5. Handle means a device for grasping and applying
adjustment forces, especially for manual adjustment of steering
devices, of doors, or for operation of motors. Examples are
steering handles on motorcycles or steering wheel rings on steering
wheels. Especially suited for this are knobs, rods or annular or
arc-shaped round profiles made for example of wood, plastic or
metal.
[0067] In addition, the invention also relates to a climate control
device 15. Climate control device means an object that is suited to
influence an area to be influenced with regard to at least one
climatic parameter, for example for heating, ventilation,
moisturizing or removal of moisture, and/or cooling.
[0068] Preferably at least one climate control device 15 has at
least one temperature-control device 17. Temperature-control device
means a device which serves for deliberate temperature control of a
user or of an object to be heated, especially for raising,
maintaining or lowering the temperature, such as heating, cooling
or ventilating devices.
[0069] In addition, the invention relates to a heating device 16,
which preferably represents the temperature control device 17 or a
component part of it. A heating device means a device that provides
thermal energy for specific heating of its surroundings, and emits
that energy conductively, convectively and/or through thermal
radiation to its surroundings. Examples are devices with at least
one electrical resistance heater, a heat pump, a radiator, or a
heating spiral, with multiples of these components, also of
differing types, also possibly being present. It is favorable if a
planar heating element 16b is provided in a jacket for heating a
handle surface and additionally a Peltier element 16a or a PTC
heating module is provided in an air flow for heating an air flow
directed to the steering device 2.
[0070] Preferably at least one heating device 16 has at least one
heating resistor for direct or indirect heating of a handle.
Heating resistor implies an ohmic resistance or some other
electrical component which converts electrical into thermal energy
when current passes through. Examples are a plurality of heating
sections made of carbon fibers, PTC heating modules connected in an
airflow, layers made of an electrically conducting plastic, metal
foils such as those made of aluminum or individual large-area
heating sections made of metallic strands, especially in a grip
zone of a surface of a handle.
[0071] Preferably at least one temperature-control device has at
least one cooling device 19 for removal of excess thermal energy,
especially through insolation. Cooling device means a device to
lower the temperature of a surface to be cooled or an object to be
cooled, such as Peltier elements, thermal conduction pipes or
ventilation devices such fans. A position at a distance from
temperature-controlled zones promotes simple assembly and reduced
structural space, for example in the direction of flow immediately
behind a fan, especially close to, or in, a pivot pole of the
steering mechanism. Fans with integrated Peltier modules are
favorable for a modular combination of the fan and cooling
device.
[0072] Preferably at least one heating or cooling device has at
least one ventilation device 20. Ventilation device means a device
that can be used for deliberate alteration of the air composition
or the air flows in a specific two-dimensional or three-dimensional
area.
[0073] Preferably at least one ventilation device has at least one
air moving device 21. Air moving device means a device for moving
of air. Examples are fans, especially a radial fan as or an onboard
air conditioner.
[0074] Preferably at least one ventilation or air conditioning
device has at least one air guidance device 22. Air guidance means
a device which can guide air in at least one direction between a
zone to be air conditioned and an air feed device or along a zone
to be ventilated.
[0075] Preferably the at least one ventilation device exhibits at
least one handle distributor 26 for ventilation or back-ventilation
of a handle. Handle distributor means a device for collecting,
distributing and/or directing air within or along the handle, for
example, through pipes or gaps which connect one or more attachment
or ventilation openings with one another.
[0076] Preferably an air guidance device 22 has at least one
connecting device 30, to movably connect a ventilation device 20
and a handle distributor 26. A connecting device 30 preferably has
a disc-like shape. Preferably its center axis is identical with the
pivot pole 3. Preferably it is arranged in a plain perpendicular to
the pivot pole 3.
[0077] A connection device 30 is provided with at least two
separate parts 31' and 32', of which at least one is movable
relative to the other by sliding or pivoting. One part 31' supplies
air, the other part 32' receives that air. Which one is supplying
and which one is receiving depends upon the direction of a passing
air flow. So in case the air flow is switched in an opposite
direction, the parts would have the respective opposite function,
too.
[0078] Preferably a connecting device 30 has a supply portion 31
for supplying air, which usually corresponds to one of the parts
31' and a receiver portion 32 for receiving air, which usually
corresponds to the at least second part 32'. At least one of those
portions is movable relative to the other portion, without
significant loss of air. So a relative movement between the
portions is possible while at the same time essentially the whole
supplied air of the supply portion 31 is transferred to the
receiver portion 32.
[0079] Both parts 31' and 32' share at least one joint interface 40
to exchange air between them. For that purpose, the parts 31' and
32' are at least partly open toward each other along the joint
interface 40. If that interface 40 is arranged at least partly
along a cylindrical surface concentric to the pivot pole 3, such
openings allow a transfer of air from one part 31', 32' to the
other perpendicular to the axis of the pivot pole 3.
[0080] If that interface 40 is arranged at least partly along a
plain perpendicular to the axis of the pivot pole 3, as in FIGS.
5-7, such openings allow a transfer of air from one part 31', 32'
to the other by a stream of air, having a direction along the axis
of the pivot pole 3. Especially in this case, preferably both parts
intermesh with each other, to improve air tightness of their
connection. This e. g. can be achieved by inserting them into each
other during assembly by movement along the axis of the pivot pole
3.
[0081] Preferably at least one supply portion 31 has at least one
supply channel 33, to provide air along at least a part of a path
of relative movement. It is preferably a circular channel with
rectangular or trapezoid cross-section and one open side.
[0082] Preferably at least one receiver portion 32 has at least one
collector channel 34, to collect air along at least a part of a
path of relative movement. At least a part of its cross-section
corresponds to at least a part of the cross-section of supply
channel 33. It is preferably a circular channel with rectangular or
trapezoid cross-section and one open side, which faces toward the
open side of the supply channel 33.
[0083] Preferably a supply portion 31 and/or a supply channel 33
have an air outlet 35, e. g. represented by one or more openings.
It e. g. can be of circular, rectangular or long narrow form.
Preferably it is ring-like, with its center arranged on the pivot
pole 3 of the steering device 2.
[0084] Preferably a receiver portion 32 and/or a collector channel
34 have an air inlet 36, e. g. by one or more openings. It e. g.
can be of circular, rectangular or long narrow form. Preferably it
is ring-like, with its center arranged on the pivot pole 3 of the
steering device 2.
[0085] In a preferred embodiment a supply channel 33 of a supply
portion 31 and a collector channel 34 of a receiver portion 32 are
at least part from a common connector channel 37. While being
slidable or pivotable moveable relative to each other, both parts
work together to keep guided air within the common connection
channel and not let it escape from the border between both
parts.
[0086] To enable a smooth relative movement between portions 31 and
32 according to FIG. 5-7 at least one rolling element 38 is
arranged between at least one border wall of the supply portion 31
and at least one border wall of the receiver portion 32. Preferably
a multitude of rolling elements 38 is arranged along the joint
border walls of the common connection channel 37, preferably on
both of its sides, so on the inner as well as on the outer side
relative to the pivot pole 3.
[0087] A rolling element 38 preferably has a ball-like, a cylindric
or a cone-shaped form. To save space, cylindric rolling elements
are preferred.
[0088] To prevent an exchange of air between the rolling elements,
preferably the connection device 30 is provided with one or more
sealing devices 39, e. g. seals or gaskets. Such sealing devices 39
are preferably positioned along or in parallel to the arrangement
of the rolling elements (e. g. a bearing).
[0089] Preferably the connection device 30 is provided with sealing
devices 39 in addition to rolling elements 38. However, seals maybe
provide a bearing surface to allow for movement. To save material
and assemble time, it can be advantageous to remove the bearing
elements 38 completely and enable a smooth relative movement just
by use of sealing devices 39, especially sealing rings. This can be
additionally supported by use of application of gel, fat or other
lubricants in or onto the sealing device.
[0090] Preferably a radial ventilator is used as an air moving
device 21. It is mounted in a zone, which is static in relation to
an adjustment movement of a steering device 2. At the discharge
side of the air moving device 21 a temperature control device 17 is
provided. It could also be provided within or attached to an air
guidance device 22 or further along an air path connected to the
air moving device 21. That temperature-control device 17 could be a
first heat resistor, e. g. a PTC (positive temperature coefficient)
heater, mounted to heat the air stream of the air moving device
21.
[0091] Preferably the temperature control device is a
thermoelectric device 16a to selectively heat or cool the
discharged air.
[0092] Preferably the air moving device 21 is connected to one side
of the thermoelectric device 16a, to provide an air stream with
heating or cooling energy.
[0093] Preferably the temperature-control device 17 is connected
via two or more tubes or channels and one or more connection
devices 30. This creates a multitude of air streams and works as
one or more air guidance devices 22 between the temperature-control
device 17 and the one or more connection devices 30.
[0094] Preferably the one or more air guidance devices 22 are
connected with one or more distributor portions 31 and/or supply
channels 33 or one or more connection devices 30. The stream of air
within the air guidance device 22 is perpendicular to the direction
within the supply channel 33.
[0095] If there are two or more air guidance devices connected with
the same supply channel 33, their connection points are preferably
separated from each other to improve a homogenous air distribution
within supply channel 33. If that supply channel has a ring-like
form, the connection points preferably are separated a number of
degrees from each other, which essentially corresponds to
360.degree. divided by the number of connection points or the
number of connected air guidance devices 22. So in the present
example the two connection points are separated roughly by
180.degree. from each other.
[0096] The supply channel 33 of the supply portion 31 in the
present example also forms the collector channel 34 of the receiver
portion 32. So in this section the resulting air stream forms a
ring-like hollow room representing a common connector channel 37.
It allows an air movement along the axis of the pivot pole 3 as
well as an air movement around the pivot pole 3.
[0097] A receiver portion 32 and/or a collector channel 34 is
preferably connected via one or more tubes, representing further
air guidance devices 22', 22''' with a handle distributor 26 within
the steering device 2 and/or a handle 5.
[0098] To allow a homogenous distribution of air within a handle 5,
the stream of air can be split up via a multitude of air guidance
devices 22'. Preferably their number is similar or even higher than
the number of air guidance devices 22 between the air moving device
21 and the connecting device 30. Preferably their number is twice
as high to allow a distribution of air in more than one direction
along a handle 5.
[0099] Preferably a climate control device 15 is provided with more
than one connecting device 30. Preferably a climate control device
15 and/or a connecting device 30 could additionally or
alternatively be provided with more than one supply portion 31
and/or receiver portion 32. This allows to increase the volume of
the resulting air supply by a plurality of parallel air
streams.
[0100] Sometimes it is also favorable to have a climate control
device 15 and/or a connecting device 30 provided with means to
allow two or more air streams simultaneously, especially in
opposing directions. Then one air stream could be directed from the
air moving device 21 toward a handle 5 and distributed within a
handle distributor 26.
[0101] At the same time, a backward stream could be guided from the
handle distributor 26 back toward a parallel second connector
device, a second interface 40' or a second connector channel 37'.
From there the air stream could be guided via a further guidance
device 22''' toward a second side of the thermoelectric device 16a.
Thus it could serve as exhaust air stream removing unwanted exhaust
heat or exhaust cold from the thermoelectric device 16a. Its
discharge could then take place, e. g. via a discharge tube, where
it does not disturb, e. g. in the foot area of a cabin or outside
of the vehicle 1.
[0102] Preferably a climate control device 15 is equipped with at
least two air moving devices 21.
[0103] Preferably a first air moving device 21' is a radial
ventilator. Preferably the discharge opening of the first air
moving device 21' is associated with or coupled to a thermoelectric
device 16a. In operation the first air moving device 21' supplies
an air stream towards the temperature-control device 17. There the
air is guided along a first side of the thermoelectric device 16a.
This temperature conditioned air is then directed towards the
steering wheel. For that purpose the temperature-control device 17
is connected via supply ducts 22a and the connecting device 30 with
the handle distributor 26.
[0104] In this kind of arrangement preferably the handle
distributor has no air discharge openings towards the hands of a
driver. Instead, air entering the handle distributor 26 via supply
ducts 22a passes through the handle distributor 26. After cooling
or heating the steering wheel, the air is removed via recirculation
ducts 22b. The recirculation ducts 22b are coupled via the
connecting device 30 with an intake opening of the first air moving
device 21'. So the air is guided through the recirculation ducts
22b and the connecting device 30 back towards the first air moving
device 21'. So preferably in this embodiment the first air moving
device 21', the temperature-control device 17, the supply ducts
22a, the connecting device 30, the handle distributor 26 and the
recirculation ducts 22b for a closed air loop.
[0105] To remove heat from this closed air loop or to heat the air
within this closed loop, preferably a second air moving device 21''
is coupled to a second side of the thermoelectric device 16a. The
first side and the second side of the thermoelectric device 16a
differ in temperature during operation.
[0106] The second air moving device 21'' is provided for providing
an external air stream, which removes heat from or supplies heat
towards the second side of the thermoelectric device 16a. In this
way, the exhaust air from the steering wheel is temperature
controlled without leaving the air loop. The second air moving
device 21'' takes in air from the surrounding of the steering wheel
and discharges the exhaust air from the second side of the
thermoelectric device 16a towards the floor of a vehicle or some
kind of exhaust air exit (e. g. via the HVAC
(heating/ventilating/air conditioning) system of the vehicle). This
further supports a temperature adjustment of the steering wheel
region.
[0107] Especially in extreme temperature surroundings, this
circulation concept within the air loop is very efficient for the
temperature control of surfaces of the steering wheel. Because if
the thermoelectric device 16a is used for heating, already warmed
air is recirculated towards the warm side of the thermoelectric
device 16a. If the climate control device is used for cooling, the
cold side of the thermoelectric device 16a is provided with already
pre-cooled air from the handle distributor 26.
[0108] Preferably the first and the second air moving device 21',
21'' are both attached to the thermoelectric device. Preferably
they are coupled to different ends of the thermoelectric device
16a. So the resulting two airstreams differ in direction.
Preferably they oppose each other.
[0109] The first air moving device 21' could be provided with an
air intake device 92. This air intake device 92 is coupled to an
air intake opening of the first air moving device 21'. The air
intake device 92 has a recirculation intake 95, which is coupled
with the recirculation ducts 22b. So this recirculation intake 95
connects the handle distributor 26 with the air intake of the first
air moving device 21'.
[0110] In some applications, where it is desired to have at least
some air discharge openings within the handle distributor 26, a
certain share of the air within the air loop would be lost. To
allow a replacement of such lost air, the air intake device 92 can
further be provided with a second air intake opening 94. This air
intake opening 94 is connected to surrounding air. So via the
second air intake opening 94 the first air moving device 21' can be
supplied with surrounding air in addition to the recirculated air.
That allows to adjust the air supply volume and air pressure within
the fluid loop.
[0111] So it is of advantage to have an climate control device 15
with an air moving device 21, which is provided with a first air
exchange opening 97, which is connected via at least one supply
duct 22a and the connecting device 30 with the handle distributor
26, where [0112] the air moving device 21 is provided with a second
air exchange opening 98, [0113] the climate control device is
provided with at least one recirculation duct 22b, which connects
the handle distributor 26 via the connecting device 30 with the
second air intake opening 98, and [0114] the climate control device
15 therefore is provided with a channel loop, circulating air
between the air moving device 21, the thermoelectric device 16a and
the handle distributor 26.
[0115] FIG. 10 illustrates a connecting device 60 having a static
part 62 and a movable part 64. The movable part 64 is cylindrical
and includes a plurality of inlets 66 and a plurality of outlets 68
that connect to air guidance devices (not shown). The movable part
64 extends over and receives the static part 62. The static part 62
as shown includes a pair of inlets 66 that in an alternating
arrangement with a pair of outlets 68. The flow paths of the inlets
66 and the outlets 68 are segregated by a dividing wall 76 and the
movable part 64. The dividing wall 76 segregates the static part 62
into two halves. The dividing wall 76 and the end walls 78 each
include a seal 70 that is in communication with the movable wall 64
so that channels are formed within the connecting device 60. The
inlet 66 includes a through channel 72 that extends through and end
wall 78 and the dividing wall 76 so that the inlet 66 extends from
a first half of the static part 62 to a second half of the static
part 62. The outlet 68 extend through an end wall 78 on an opposite
end as the inlet 66 and is prevented from passing through the
dividing wall 76 so that two discrete air sections are created.
However, the connecting device 60 may be free of an outlet 68 or
return paths for air to return from an occupant contact region (not
shown).
[0116] FIG. 11 illustrates a partial-sectional view demonstrating
the various flow paths of air through the connecting device 60. The
movable part 64 is extended over the static part 62 so that the
seals 70 are in contact with the movable part 64 and channels are
formed. The outlet 68 extend through an end wall 78 away from a
movable component (not shown) and is directed out of the connecting
device 60 through an outlet 68 in the movable part 64. The outlet
68 in the movable part 64 is located proximate to a dividing wall
76 that is sealed to the movable part 64 by a seal 70. The
connecting device 60 includes an air inlet 66 in the movable part
64 that is connected to a through channel 72 so that air is
directed out of the connecting device 60 through an end wall 78.
The through channel 72 passes through the dividing wall 76 of the
static part 62 and maintains the inlet flow streams and the outlet
flow streams in a discrete relationship.
LIST OF REFERENCES
[0117] 1 Vehicle [0118] 2 Steering device [0119] 3 Pivot pole
[0120] 5 Handle [0121] 15 Climate control device [0122] 16 Heating
device [0123] 16a Thermoelectric device [0124] 16b Planar heating
element [0125] 17 Temperature-control device [0126] 18 Heating
resistor [0127] 20 Ventilation device [0128] 21, 21', 21'' Air
moving device [0129] 22, 22', 22''' Air guidance devices [0130] 22a
Supply duct [0131] 22b Recirculation duct [0132] 26 Handle
distributor [0133] 30 Connecting device [0134] 31 Supply portion
[0135] 31' Part (of the connecting device) [0136] 32 Receiver
portion [0137] 32' Part (of the connecting device) [0138] 33 Supply
channel [0139] 34 Collector channel [0140] 35 Air outlet [0141] 37,
37' Connector channel [0142] 38 Rolling element [0143] 39 Sealing
devices [0144] 40, 40' Interface [0145] 60 Connecting device [0146]
62 Static part [0147] 64 Movable part [0148] 66 Inlet [0149] 68
Outlet [0150] 70 Seal [0151] 72 Through channel [0152] 74 Shaft
aperture [0153] 76 Dividing wall [0154] 78 End wall [0155] 92 Air
intake device [0156] 94 Air intake opening [0157] 95 Recirculation
intake [0158] 97 First air exchange opening [0159] 98 Second air
exchange opening
* * * * *