U.S. patent number RE47,574 [Application Number 14/864,704] was granted by the patent office on 2019-08-20 for structure based fluid distribution system.
This patent grant is currently assigned to Gentherm Incorporated. The grantee listed for this patent is Gentherm Incorporated. Invention is credited to David Marquette, John Terech.
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United States Patent |
RE47,574 |
Terech , et al. |
August 20, 2019 |
Structure based fluid distribution system
Abstract
A climate controlled seat assembly includes a seat cushion that
has an outer surface with a first side for supporting an occupant
in a seated position and a second side, which generally faces in an
opposite direction than the first side. An air passage extends from
the first side to the second side of the seat cushion. A support
member has a first side that is configured to provide support to
the seat cushion and a second side. the first side and the second
side of the support member generally face in opposite directions. A
distribution passage is in communication with the air passage and
is formed at least in part by a recess formed at least in part in
one of the first side of the support member and the second side of
the seat cushion.
Inventors: |
Terech; John (Milan, MI),
Marquette; David (Farmington Hills, MI) |
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Gentherm Incorporated |
Northville |
MI |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
Gentherm Incorporated
(Northville, MI)
|
Family
ID: |
38805714 |
Appl.
No.: |
14/864,704 |
Filed: |
September 24, 2015 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
Issue Date |
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60809459 |
May 31, 2006 |
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Reissue of: |
11561316 |
Nov 17, 2006 |
8539624 |
Sep 24, 2013 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A47C
7/74 (20130101); A47C 7/74 (20130101) |
Current International
Class: |
A47C
16/00 (20060101); A47C 7/74 (20060101) |
Field of
Search: |
;297/180.1,180.13,180.14
;5/423,652.2,726 |
References Cited
[Referenced By]
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Other References
English language abstract of JP 58-185952, 1 pg. cited by examiner
.
Partial English language translation of JP 04-107656, 1 pg. cited
by examiner .
U.S. Appl. No. 15/118,441, filed Aug. 11, 2016, Inaba et al., and
its entire prosecution history. cited by applicant .
Photographs and accompanying description of climate control seat
assembly system components publicly disclosed as early as Jan.
1998. cited by applicant .
Photographs and accompanying description of a component of a
climate control seat assembly system sold prior to Dec. 20, 2003.
cited by applicant .
U.S. Appl. No. 15/101,854, filed Jun. 3, 2016, Wolas et al. cited
by applicant .
Lofy et al., "Thermoelectrics for Environmental Control in
Automobiles", Proceeding of Twenty-First International Conference
on Thermoelectrics (ICT 2002), 2002, pp. 471-476. cited by
applicant .
Photographs and accompanying description of two different
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climate control seat assembly system sold prior to Nov. 1, 2005.
cited by applicant .
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accompanying Statement of Relevance. cited by applicant .
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2008, for PCT/USZO07/12743, the corresponding PCT application of
the present U.S. Appl. No. 11/561,316. cited by applicant.
|
Primary Examiner: Fetsuga; Robert M
Attorney, Agent or Firm: Knobbe, Martens, Olson & Bear
LLP
Parent Case Text
PRIORITY INFORMATION
This application .Iadd.is a reissue of U.S. Pat. No. 8,539,624,
which issued Sep. 24, 2013 from U.S. patent application Ser. No.
11/561,316, filed Nov. 17, 2006, which .Iaddend.claims priority to
U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/809,459, filed May 31,
2006, the .[.entirety.]. .Iadd.entireties .Iaddend.of .Iadd.both of
.Iaddend.which .[.is.]. .Iadd.are .Iaddend.hereby incorporated by
reference herein.
INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE
The .[.entirety.]. .Iadd.entireties .Iaddend.of .Iadd.U.S. Pat. No.
8,539,624, filed as U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/561,316 on
Nov. 17, 2006 and issued on Sep. 24, 2013, and .Iaddend.U.S.
Provisional Patent Application No. 60/809,459, filed May 31, 2006,
.[.is.]. .Iadd.are .Iaddend.expressly incorporated by reference
herein and made a part of the present specification.
Claims
What is claimed is:
.[.1. A climate-controlled seating assembly, comprising: a cushion
having an outer surface, said outer surface comprising a first side
for receiving and supporting an occupant and a second side, said
second side facing in a generally opposite direction than said
first side; a plurality of fluid passages extending through an
interior of the cushion, from the first side to the second side of
said cushion, wherein said fluid passages are configured to
facilitate a transfer of air from the second side to the first side
of the cushion; a support member positioned adjacent the second
side of the cushion, said support member comprising a front surface
configured to contact at least a portion of the second side of the
cushion; wherein the support member further comprises a rear
surface, said rear surface being generally opposite of the first
surface; at least one fluid distribution system positioned along
the front surface of the support member, wherein said at least one
fluid distribution system comprises at least one recess within the
front surface of the support member; wherein the at least one fluid
distribution system does not extend to the rear surface of the
support member; wherein the front surface of the support member
directly contacts the second side of the cushion member in areas
adjacent the at least one recess and along a majority of an
interface between the support member and the cushion member;
wherein the at least one recess of the at least one fluid
distribution system forms at least one fluid channel when the
support member is secured to the cushion, said at least one fluid
channel being in fluid communication with at least one of the fluid
passages of the cushion; and a fluid module in fluid communication
with the at least one fluid channel; wherein, when in use, the
fluid module is configured to deliver air into said at least one
fluid channel and to at least some of the fluid passages, toward
the first side of the cushion; and wherein, when in use, air
directed into the at least one fluid channel is configured to be
distributed at least partially laterally within said at least one
fluid channel..].
2. The seating assembly of claim .[.1.]. .Iadd.8.Iaddend., wherein
the fluid module comprises a fluid transfer device and at least one
thermal conditioning device, said at least one thermal conditioning
device being configured to selectively heat or cool air.
3. The seating assembly of claim 2, wherein the at least one
thermal conditioning device comprises at least one of a
thermoelectric device and a convective heater.
4. The seating assembly of claim .[.1.]. .Iadd.8.Iaddend., wherein
the fluid module is positioned adjacent the rear surface of the
.Iadd.structural .Iaddend.support member.
5. The seating assembly of claim .[.1.]. .Iadd.8.Iaddend., wherein
the fluid module is positioned at least partially within the at
least one fluid channel.
6. The seating assembly of claim .[.1.]. .Iadd.8.Iaddend., wherein
the fluid module is positioned completely within the at least one
fluid channel.
.[.7. The seating assembly of claim 1, wherein the support member
comprises a plastic material..].
8. .[.The seating assembly of claim 1,.]. .Iadd.A
climate-controlled seating assembly, comprising: a cushion having
an outer surface, said outer surface comprising a first side for
receiving and supporting an occupant and a second side, said second
side facing in a generally opposite direction than said first side;
a plurality of fluid passages extending through an interior of the
cushion, from the first side to the second side of said cushion,
wherein said fluid passages are configured to facilitate a transfer
of air from the second side to the first side of the cushion; a
structural support member positioned adjacent the second side of
the cushion, said structural support member comprising a front
surface facing the second side of the cushion and configured to
contact at least a portion of the second side of the cushion;
wherein the structural support member further comprises a rear
surface, said rear surface being generally opposite of the front
surface; at least one fluid distribution system positioned along
the front surface of the structural support member, wherein said at
least one fluid distribution system comprises at least one recess
within the front surface of structural support member; wherein the
at least one fluid distribution system does not extend to the rear
surface of the structural support member; wherein the front surface
of the structural support member directly contacts the second side
of the cushion member in areas of the second side adjacent the at
least one recess and along a majority of an interface between
structural support member and the cushion member; wherein the at
least one recess of the at least one fluid distribution system
forms at least one fluid channel when the structural support member
is secured to the cushion, said at least one fluid channel being in
fluid communication with at least one of the fluid passages of the
cushion; a fluid module in fluid communication with the at least
one fluid channel; wherein the at least one fluid channel extends
at least partially laterally along the second side of the cushion;
and.Iaddend. wherein the .Iadd.structural .Iaddend.support member
comprises a metallic material.
9. The seating assembly of claim .[.1.]. .Iadd.8.Iaddend., wherein
the seating assembly comprises a seat.
10. The seating assembly of claim .[.1.]. .Iadd.8.Iaddend., wherein
the seating assembly comprises a bed.
.[.11. The seating assembly of claim 1, wherein the at least one
fluid channel does not extend along an entire portion or
substantially an entire portion of the second side of the
cushion..].
12. The seating assembly of claim .[.1.]. .Iadd.8.Iaddend., wherein
the at least one fluid channel comprises a U-shape, V-shape or
semi-circular shape.
.[.13. A climate-controlled seating assembly, comprising: a cushion
having an outer surface, said outer surface comprising a first side
for supporting an occupant and a second side, said second side
facing in a generally opposite direction than said first side;
wherein at least a portion of the cushion is generally air
permeable so as to permit air to pass from the second side to the
first side of said cushion; a support member positioned adjacent
the second side of the cushion, said support member comprising a
front surface configured to contact at least a portion of the
second side of the cushion; wherein the support member further
comprises a rear surface, said rear surface being generally
opposite of the first surface; at least one fluid distribution
system formed along the front surface of the support member,
wherein said at least one fluid distribution system comprises at
least one recess within said front surface; wherein the support
member comprises a first uniform thickness along the at least one
recess and a second uniform thickness along a remaining area of the
support member, wherein the second uniform thickness is greater
than the first uniform thickness; wherein the at least one recess
of the at least one fluid distribution system and the adjacent
second side of the cushion together form at least one fluid channel
when the support member is secured to said cushion wherein, when in
use, air from a fluid module in fluid communication with the at
least one fluid channel is configured to be delivered into said at
least one fluid channel and at least partially through an air
permeable portion of the cushion, toward the first side of the
cushion; and wherein, when in use, air directed into the at least
one fluid channel is configured to be distributed at least
partially laterally within said at least one fluid channel..].
.[.14. The seating assembly of claim 13, wherein the seating
assembly additionally comprises the fluid module that is in fluid
communication with the at least one fluid channel..].
15. The seating assembly of claim .[.14.]. .Iadd.20.Iaddend.,
wherein the fluid module comprises a fluid transfer device and at
least one thermal conditioning device, said at least one thermal
conditioning device being configured to selectively heat or cool
air.
16. The seating assembly of claim 15, wherein the at least one
thermal conditioning device comprises at least one of a
thermoelectric device and a convective heater.
17. The seating assembly of claim .[.14.]. .Iadd.20.Iaddend.,
wherein the fluid module is positioned adjacent the rear surface of
.[.the.]. .Iadd.structural .Iaddend.support member.
18. The seating assembly of claim .[.14.]. .Iadd.20.Iaddend.,
wherein the fluid module is positioned at least partially within
the at least one fluid channel.
.[.19. The seating assembly of claim 13, wherein the support member
comprises a plastic material..].
20. .[.The seating assembly of claim 13,.]. .Iadd.A
climate-controlled seating assembly, comprising: a cushion having
an outer surface, said outer surface comprising a first side for
supporting an occupant and a second side, said second side facing
in a generally opposite direction than said first side; wherein at
least a portion of the cushion is generally air permeable so as to
permit air to pass from the second side to the first side of said
cushion; a structural support member positioned adjacent the second
side of the cushion, said structural support member comprising a
front surface facing the second side of the cushion and configured
to contact at least a portion of the second side of the cushion;
wherein the structural support member further comprises a rear
surface, said rear surface being generally opposite of the front
surface; at least one fluid distribution system formed along the
front surface of the structural support member, wherein said at
least one fluid distribution system comprises at least one recess
within said front surface; wherein the structural support member
comprises a first uniform thickness along the at least one recess
and a second uniform thickness along a remaining area of the
structural support member, wherein the second uniform thickness is
greater than the first uniform thickness; wherein the at least one
recess of the at least one fluid distribution system and the
adjacent second side of the cushion together form at least one
fluid channel when the structural support member is secured to said
cushion, the fluid channel being in communication with the portion
of the cushion that is generally air permeable; a fluid module in
fluid communication with the at least one fluid; wherein the at
least one fluid channel extends at least partially laterally along
the second side of the cushion; and.Iaddend. wherein the
.Iadd.structural .Iaddend.support member comprises a metallic
material.
21. The seating assembly of claim .[.13.]. .Iadd.20.Iaddend.,
wherein the seating assembly comprises a seat.
22. The seating assembly of claim .[.13.]. .Iadd.20.Iaddend.,
wherein the seating assembly comprises a bed.
.[.23. The seating assembly of claim 13, wherein the at least one
fluid channel does not extend along an entire portion or
substantially an entire portion of the second side of the
cushion..].
24. The seating assembly of claim .[.13.]. .Iadd.20.Iaddend.,
wherein the at least one fluid channel comprises a U-shape, V-shape
or semi-circular shape.
25. The seating assembly of claim .[.13.]. .Iadd.20.Iaddend.,
wherein the .Iadd.portion of the .Iaddend.cushion .Iadd.that is
generally air permeable .Iaddend.comprises an air permeable
material so that air can be selectively transferred through .[.a
portion of.]. the cushion, from the second side to the first side
of the cushion.
.[.26. The seating assembly of claim 13, wherein the cushion
comprises a plurality of fluid passages that extend from the second
side to the first side of the cushion..].
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
1. Field of the Invention
This invention relates to climate control. More specifically, this
invention relates to climate control of a seat.
2. Description of the Related Art
Temperature modified air for environmental control of living or
working space is typically provided to relatively extensive areas,
such as entire buildings, selected offices, or suites of rooms
within a building. In the case of vehicles, such as automobiles,
the entire vehicle is typically cooled or heated as a unit. There
are many situations, however, in which more selective or
restrictive air temperature modification is desirable. For example,
it is often desirable to provide an individualized climate control
for an occupant seat so that substantially instantaneous heating or
cooling can be achieved. For example, an automotive vehicle exposed
to the summer weather, where the vehicle has been parked in an
unshaded area for a long period of time, can cause the vehicle seat
to be very hot and uncomfortable for the occupant for some time
after entering and using the vehicle, even with normal air
conditioning. Furthermore, even with normal air-conditioning, on a
hot day, the seat occupant's back and other pressure points may
remain sweaty while seated. In the winter time, it is highly
desirable to have the ability to quickly warm the seat of the
occupant to facilitate the occupant's comfort, especially where the
normal vehicle heater is unlikely to warm the vehicle's interior as
quickly.
For such reasons, there have long been various types of
individualized climate control systems for vehicle seats. Such
climate control systems typically include a distribution system
comprising a combination of channels and passages formed in the
cushion of the seat. Climate conditioned air is supplied to these
channels and passages by a climate control device. The climate
conditioned air flows through the channels and passages to cool or
heat the space adjacent the surface of the vehicle seat.
There are, however, problems that have been experienced with
existing climate control systems for seat assemblies. For example,
the distribution system is typically positioned along or near the
top surface of the cushion generally adjacent to the occupant. This
can compromise the comfort and/or the appearance of the seat. To
solve this problem, additional components such as cover layers,
additional cushioning material etc. have been added to the
seat.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
Accordingly, one aspect of the present invention comprises a
climate controlled assembly which includes a cushion and a support
member. The cushion has an outer surface comprising a first side
for supporting an occupant and a second side. The first side and
the second side face generally in opposite directions. At least one
air passage extends from the first side to the second side of the
cushion. The support member has a first side configured to provide
support to the cushion and a second side. The first side and the
second side of the support member face generally in opposite
directions. The support member comprising at least one channel that
is formed in the first side of the support member. The at least one
channel defines at least part of a distribution passage that is in
fluid communication with the at least one air passage.
Another aspect of the present invention comprises a method of
assembling a climate controlled assembly. In the method, a cushion
is formed with passages that extend from a first side of the
cushion to a second side of the cushion. A support member is formed
with distribution channels formed on a front face of the support
member. The distribution channels are aligned with the passages in
the cushion. The second side of the cushion is coupled to the front
face of the support member.
Another aspect of the present invention comprises a climate
controlled assembly that has a cushion and a support member. The
cushion has an outer surface comprising a first side for supporting
an occupant and a second side. The first side and the second side
generally face in opposite directions. At least one air passage
extends from the first side to the second side of the cushion. A
support member has a first side configured to provide support to
the cushion and a second side. The first side and the second side
of the support member generally face in opposite directions. A
fluid transfer device is positioned between at least a portion of
the support member and at least a portion of the cushion. The
assembly also includes means for distributing air from the fluid
transfer device along at least a portion of the first side of the
support member to the plurality of spaced apart air passages.
Another aspect of the present invention comprises a climate
controlled assembly having a cushion and a support member. The
cushion has an outer surface comprising a first side for supporting
an occupant and a second side. The first side and the second side
generally face in opposite directions. A support member has a first
side configured to provide support to the cushion and a second
side. The first side and the second side of the support member
generally face in opposite directions. A fluid transfer device is
configured to move fluid and is positioned at least partially
between at least a portion of the support member and at least a
portion of the cushion.
Another aspect of the present invention comprises a climate
controlled assembly that includes a cushion that has an outer
surface with a first side for supporting an occupant and a second
side, which generally faces in an opposite direction than the first
side. An air passage extends from the first side to the second side
of the cushion. A support member has a first side that is
configured to provide support to the cushion and a second side. The
first side and the second side of the support member generally face
in opposite directions. A distribution passage is in communication
with the air passage and is formed at least in part by a recess
formed at least in part in one of the first side of the support
member and the second side of the cushion.
Another aspect of the present invention comprises a climate
controlled assembly which includes a cushion that has an outer
surface comprising a first side for supporting an occupant and a
second side. The first side and the second side generally face in
opposite directions. At least one air passage extends from the
first side to the second side of the cushion. The assembly further
includes a support member having a first side configured to provide
support to the cushion and a second side. The first side and the
second side of the support member generally face in opposite
directions. The support member further comprises at least one
opening that extends through the support member from the first side
to the second side. The assembly further includes an intermediate
member positioned between the cushion and the support member. The
intermediate member comprises at least one open channel that is
configured to place the at least one opening in the support member
in communication with the at least one air passage in the
cushion.
Further features and advantages of the present invention will
become apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art in view of
the detailed description of preferred embodiments which follow,
when considered together with the attached drawings and claims.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a back portion of a seat assembly,
which includes a climate control system that is configured in
accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present
invention;
FIG. 2 is a front view of the seat assembly of FIG. 1;
FIG. 3 is a front view of the seat assembly of FIG. 1 with a
cushion removed;
FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the seat assembly of FIG. 1
taken along line 4-4 of FIG. 2;
FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of the seat assembly of FIG. 1
taken along line 5-5 of FIG. 2; and
FIG. 6 is a schematic illustration of the seat assembly and climate
control system of FIG. 1.
FIG. 7 is a perspective view of an assembly of a climate controlled
seat system.
FIG. 8 is a front view of an intermediate layer of the climate
controlled seat system of FIG. 7.
FIG. 9 is a front view of a cushion layer of the climate controlled
seat system of FIG. 7.
FIG. 10 is a perspective view of an assembly of a climate
controlled seat system.
FIG. 11 is a perspective view of the cushion layer of the climate
controlled seat assembly of FIG. 10.
FIG. 12 is a front view of the cushion layer of the climate
controlled seat system of FIG. 10.
FIG. 13 is a perspective view of an assembly of a climate
controlled seat system.
FIG. 14 is a perspective view of the cushion layer of the climate
controlled seat assembly of FIG. 13.
FIG. 15 is a front view of the cushion layer of the climate
controlled seat assembly of FIG. 13.
FIG. 16 is an embodiment of a frame of the climate controlled seat
system of FIG. 7.
FIG. 17 is an embodiment of an intermediate layer of the climate
controlled seat system of FIG. 7.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
FIGS. 1 and 2 are front perspective and front views of an
embodiment of a climate controlled seat assembly 30. As shown, the
seat assembly 30 comprises a backrest 34, which can be coupled
and/or used in combination with a seat portion (not shown) to form
a seat. The seat assembly 30 also includes a climate control system
36, which will be described in more detail below with reference to
FIGS. 3-6.
When an occupant sits in the seat assembly 30, the occupant's seat
is located on the seat portion and the occupant's back contacts a
front surface 48 of the backrest portion 34. The backrest 34 and
the seat portion cooperate to support the occupant in a sitting
position. The seat assembly 30 can be configured and sized to
accommodate occupants of various size and weight.
In the illustrated embodiment, the seat assembly 30 is similar to a
standard automotive seat. However, it should be appreciated that
certain features and aspects of the seat assembly 30 described
herein may also be used in a variety of other applications and
environments. For example, certain features and aspects of the seat
assembly 30 may be adapted for use in other vehicles, such as, for
example, an airplane, a boat, wheelchairs, or the like. Further,
certain features and aspects of the seat assembly 30 may also be
adapted for use in stationary environments, such as, for example, a
chair, a sofa, a theater seat, and an office seat that is used in a
place of business and/or residence. In addition, certain features
and aspects of the seat assembly 30 can be adapted for use in
devices that do not support a person in a seated position, such as,
for example, beds.
With continued reference to FIGS. 1 and 2, the backrest 34 has a
front side 54, a rear side 56, a top side 58 and a bottom side 60.
Although not illustrated, the backrest 34 can include a pair of
sides that extend between the top side 58 and bottom side 60 for
providing lateral support to the occupant of the seat assembly
30.
As shown, the backrest 34 is generally formed by a cushion 72,
which is covered with an appropriate covering material (not shown),
such as, for example, upholstery, vinyl or leather. The cushion 72
is typically supported on a frame or support member 74. In some
embodiments, springs may be positioned between the frame 74 and the
cushion 72. The frame 74 provides the seat assembly 30 with
structural support while the cushion 72 provides a soft seating
surface. The covering material, in turn, provides an aesthetic
appearance and soft feel to the surface of the seat assembly 30.
The cushion 72 also has a rear side 73, which is generally opposite
the front side .[.48.]. .Iadd.54 .Iaddend.of the cushion 72 and
adjacent to the frame 74.
The cushion 72 can be a typical automotive seat cushion foam or
other types of materials with suitable characteristics for
providing support to an occupant. Such materials include, but are
not limited to, closed or open-celled foam.
FIG. 3 is a front view of the seat assembly 30 of FIGS. 1 and 2
with the cushion 72 removed to illustrate the exposed front face 75
of the frame 74. As shown, the frame 74 of the backrest 34 of the
seat assembly 30 forms, at least in part, a portion a backrest
fluid distribution system 76. The distribution system 76 comprises
an inlet channel or recess 78, which can be formed in the front
face 75 of the frame 74. In the illustrated embodiment, the inlet
channel 78 comprises a generally u-shaped channel or recess. In
modified embodiments, the inlet channel 78 can have a different
shape (e.g., v-shaped, or semi-circular).
With continued reference to FIG. 3, the distribution system 76 also
includes at least one, and often, a plurality of distribution
channels or recesses 80, which extend from the inlet channel 78. In
the illustrated embodiment, the inlet channel 78 extends in a
generally vertical direction along the front face 75 of the frame
74. The distribution system 76 includes a pair of distribution
channels 80, which extend horizontally in opposite directions from
the inlet channel 78. The distribution channels 80 then turn
approximately 90 degrees and extend in a generally downwardly
direction generally parallel to the inlet channel 78. However, it
should be appreciated that the illustrated shape, orientation and
number of inlet and distribution channels 78, 80 is one example
that can be used to distribute a fluid along the frame 74. Modified
embodiments of the present invention can utilize different numbers,
shapes, and orientations of the inlet and distribution channels 78,
80. In addition, the inlet and distribution channels 78, 80 can be
combined or subdivided.
As shown in FIG. 3, the inlet channel 78 can be in communication
with a recess 82 for a fluid module 92 (not shown in FIG. 3). The
recess 82 can be configured such that when the fluid module 92 is
positioned within the recess 82 an outlet of the fluid module is in
communication with the inlet passage 78. The fluid module also
includes an inlet, which is in communication with a fluid module
inlet channel 98, which extends from the recess 82. The recess 82
can include recessed flanged portions 101 which are configured to
receive mounting flanges coupled to the fluid module 92. In this
manner, the fluid module 92 can be positioned within the recess 82
such that its outlet is in fluid communication with the inlet
channel 78 and its inlet is in fluid communication with the fluid
module inlet channel 98.
As will be explained below, the fluid module 92 can be configured
to provide conditioned air (and/or to remove air in some
embodiments) to the distribution systems 76. In this manner, the
fluid module 92 provides a fluid flow to either warm or cool the
front surface 48 of the backrest 34 as will be explained below. In
such embodiments, the fluid module 92 can include heating and/or
cooling elements. In modified embodiments, the fluid module 92 can
be configured to provide unconditioned (e.g., ambient) air to the
front surface of the backrest 34. In such an embodiment, the fluid
module can include a pumping element (e.g., an axial or radial
fan).
With reference to FIGS. 4-5, the front surface 75 of the frame 74
can be covered by the cushion 72 to define distribution passages 83
for transporting air from the fluid module 92 along the front
surface 75 of the frame 74. The cushion 72 and the fluid module
inlet channel 98 define, in turn, a fluid module inlet passage 99
(see FIG. 5) for transporting air from outside the seat assembly 30
to the fluid module 92.
As shown in FIG. 4, a plurality of orifices 100 can extend through
the cushion. 72 for delivering air to and/or from the distribution
passages 83. Each orifice 100 includes an opening 102 on the front
surface 48 of the cushion 72 (see also, FIGS. 1 and 2) and
communications with a distribution passage. In this manner, air can
be either delivered from the distribution passages 83 to the front
surface 48 of the cushion 72 and/or air can be removed from the
front surface 48 of the cushion 72 and be withdrawn into the
distribution passages 83. In the illustrated embodiment, the
orifices 100 communicate with the distribution channels 80 but in
modified embodiments the orifices 100 can communicate, in addition
to or alternatively, with the inlet channel 78.
As mentioned above, the cushion 72 may be formed from a typical
cushion material, such as, for example, an open or closed cell foam
or combination thereof. In one embodiment, the cushion 72 is made
of foam that is pre-molded to form the orifices and/or the channels
80. In another embodiment, the orifices .[.80.]. .Iadd.100
.Iaddend.may be formed by removing (e.g., cutting or boring) foam
out of the seat cushion 72. The cushion 72 can be coupled to the
frame 74 in a variety of manners, such as, for example, through
adhesives, tie-downs, etc. Preferably, the cushion 72 is coupled to
the frame in a manner such that the distribution passages are
substantially sealed with respect to air flow. In modified
embodiments, an intermediate member (e.g., a sealing pad, sealant
and/or coating) can be placed between the cushion 72 and the frame
74 to form a part of the distribution passages 83. In addition to
or in the alternative, an intermediate member can be placed within
and/or along the channels 78, 80 in the frame 74. Such an
intermediate member can be advantageous if the frame 74 is made of
an air permeable material.
In certain embodiments, a distribution layer (not shown) can be
disposed between the cushion 72 and the seat covering. The
distribution layer can be configured to spread the air flowing
through the openings 102 along bottom surface of the covering. To
permit airflow between the distribution layer and the spaces
proximal to the front surface 48 of the backrest 34, the covering
may be formed from an air-permeable material. For example, in one
embodiment, the covering comprises an air-permeable fabric made of
natural and/or synthetic fibers. In another embodiment, the
covering is formed from a leather, or leather-like material that is
provided with small openings or apertures. In certain embodiments,
the distribution layer can comprise a fibrous or honeycomb
material.
The climate control seat assembly 30 and distribution system 76 has
been described with reference to a backrest 30. However, as
mentioned above, it is anticipated that the certain features of the
climate control assembly 30 and distribution system 76 can be
applied to a seat portion of a seat assembly 30. In addition, it is
anticipated that certain features and features of the distribution
system 76 can be applied to side panels of a seat assembly 30.
Thus, for example, with respect to an embodiment for a seat
portion, the exposed front face 75 of the frame 74 can correspond
to a top face of a frame for the seat portion. In a similar manner,
the rear side 73 of the seat cushion can correspond to a bottom
side of a cushion for the seat portion.
As mentioned above, the frame 74 provides support for the cushion
72. In addition, in the illustrated embodiment, the frame 74
advantageously forms and/or provides space for at least part of the
distribution system 76. This arrangement is advantageous because it
positions the distribution system 76 further from the front surface
48 of the backrest 34. This improves the overall seat appearance
and comfort. In addition, in the prior art, when the distribution
system is positioned near on the front surface of the seat,
additional components (e.g., inserts, pads, distribution layers,
etc.), are often used in order to improve the comfort and/or
appearance of the seat. Such components are not required with the
seat assembly described above. In addition, the frame 74 in the
illustrated embodiment can be used to mount and/or support the
fluid module 92 and/or other components of the fluid distribution
system 76. For example, in the illustrate embodiment, recessed
flanged portions 101 can be provided in the frame 74 for supporting
corresponding flanged portions on the fluid module 92. This
arrangement of positioning the fluid module 92 between at least a
portion of the cushion 72 and at least a portion of the frame 74
also conserves space and improves the appearance of the seat
assembly 30.
The frame 74 can be formed from a variety of materials given the
goal of providing a distribution system 76 as described above. For
example, in one embodiment, the frame 74 can be formed from foam or
plastic (or a combination thereof) that is molded or otherwise
shaped to form the distribution system 76 described above. In a
modified embodiment, the frame can comprise a metallic material
(e.g., steel) which has been stamped or otherwise formed the
channels and recesses described above. In another embodiment, a
combination of materials (e.g., metallic, foam, and/or plastic) is
used to form the frame 74. In general, a foam or plastic frame 74
is preferred because it provides a lower thermal mass as compared
to a metallic frame.
Given the goal of distributing air through the cushion 72 and to
the front surface 48 of the seat assembly 30, those of skill in the
art will recognize that the distribution system 76 can be modified
in several different manners. For example, as mentioned above, the
shape and/or number of channels 78, 80, 98 can be modified. In
other embodiments, the orifices 100 can be replaced with porous
and/or air permeable portions of the cushion .[.76.]. .Iadd.72
.Iaddend.which are in communication with the distribution system
76.
In yet another embodiment, the channels and/or recesses can also or
in the alternative be formed in the rear surface 73 of the cushion
72. In such an embodiment, the fluid module 92 can be positioned
within a recess formed in the rear surface 73 of the cushion 72.
The channels and/or recesses described above can also be formed in
the rear surface 73 of the cushion 72. Such channels and/or
recesses can replace and/or be used in combination with the
channels 78, 80, 98 described above. Thus, in such embodiments, the
fluid module 92 and/or the channels and recesses can also be
positioned between at least a portion of the cushion 72 and at
least a portion of the frame 74.
In another embodiment, the fluid module 92 can be positioned within
a recess or channel in the rear surface 73 of the cushion 72 and/or
the front surface 75 of the frame while one or more distribution
passages extend along the front surface 48 of the cushion. In such
an embodiments, the distribution passages can be arranged as
described in U.S. Patent Publication 2005-0264086, published Dec.
12, 2005, the entirety of which is hereby incorporated by reference
herein. In such an embodiment, the system can be used without or
without the inserts described in U.S. Patent Publication
2005-0264086. In certain embodiments, the thermal module inlet
passage 99 can extend between the cushion 72 and frame 74 as
described above and/or an inlet passage can extend through a
portion of the frame 74.
In other embodiments, the distribution passages 93 can be
positioned between the cushion 72 and the frame 74 while the fluid
module 92 is not positioned between the frame 74 and the cushion
72. For example, the fluid module 92 can be positioned on a rear
side of the frame 74 and connected to the distribution passages 83
through a passage formed in the frame 74. In a modified embodiment,
the fluid module 92 can be in communication with the thermal module
inlet passage 99 and positioned below the backrest 34.
FIG. 6 is a schematic illustration of the climate control system 36
described above. Specifically, this Figure schematically
illustrates the fluid module 92 and the distribution system 76 in
the backrest 34. As mentioned above, the fluid module 92 can
provide fluid flow to either warm or cool the front surface 48 of
the backrest 34. Specifically, the climate control apparatus 36
preferably provides conditioned air that is either heated or cooled
relative to the temperature of the front surface 48 of the backrest
.[.32.]. .Iadd.34.Iaddend.. In this illustrate, the fluid module 92
shown positioned outside of the frame 74 and cushion 72 according
to the embodiment described in the previous paragraph.
In the illustrated embodiment, the fluid module 92 preferably
includes a thermoelectric device 110 for temperature conditioning
(i.e. selectively healing or cooling) the fluid flowing through the
device 110. A preferred thermoelectric device 110 is a Peltier
thermoelectric module, which is well known in the art. The
illustrated fluid module 92 preferably also includes a main heat
exchanger 112 for transferring or removing thermal energy from the
fluid flowing through the module 92 and to the distribution systems
76. The module 92 also preferably includes a secondary heat
exchanger 113 that extends from the thermoelectric device 110
generally opposite the main heat exchanger 112. A pumping device
114 is preferably associated with each fluid module 92 for
directing fluid over the main and/or waste heat exchangers 112,
113. The pumping device 114 can comprise an electrical fan or
blower, such as, for example, an axial blower and/or radial fan. In
the illustrated embodiment, a single pumping device 114 can be used
for both the main and waste heat exchanges 112, 113. However, it is
anticipated that separate pumping devices may be associated with
the secondary and heat exchangers 112, 113.
It should be appreciated that the fluid module 92 described above
represents only one exemplary embodiment of a device that may be
used to condition the air supplied to the distribution system 76.
Any of a variety of differently configured fluid modules may be
used to provide conditioned air. Other examples of fluid modules
that may be used are described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,223,539,
6,119,463, 5,524,439 or 5,626,021, which are hereby incorporated by
reference in their entirety. Another example of such a fluid module
is currently sold under the trademark Micro-Thermal Module.TM. by
Amerigon, Inc. In another example, the fluid module may comprise a
pump device without a thermoelectric device for thermally
conditioning the air. In such an embodiment, the pumping device may
be used to remove or supply air to the distribution system 76. In
yet another embodiment, the fluid module 92 can share one or more
components (e.g., pumping devices, thermoelectric devices, etc.)
with the vehicles general climate control system.
In operation, fluid in the form of air can be delivered from the
fluid module 92, to the distribution system 76. As described above,
the air flows through the passages 83, into the orifices 100 and
through the covering. In this manner, conditioned air can be
provided to the front surface 48 of the backrest 34.
In a modified embodiment, air from the front surface 48 can be
drawn through the covering into the orifices 100. The air then can
flow through the distribution passages 83. In this manner, the
climate control system 36 can provide suction so that air near the
surface of the seat assembly 30 is removed.
FIG. 7 illustrates a perspective view of an assembly of a climate
controlled seat assembly 150. The climate controlled seat assembly
150 comprises a back rest which can be coupled and/or used in
combination with a seat portion (not shown) to form a seat which
can be similar to previous embodiments as described in FIGS.
1-6.
In the illustrated embodiment, the seat assembly 150 generally
includes a climate controlled system 152 which can be substantially
similar to the climate control system 36 of FIG. 6, a frame 154,
and a cushion 156. The seat assembly 150 further includes a seat
cover 158. The frame 154 provides the seat assembly 150 with
structural support while the cushion 156 provides a soft surface
for an occupant. The cover 158, in turn, provides an aesthetic
appearance and soft feel to the surface of the seat assembly 150.
The seat cushion 156 further includes an intermediate layer 160 and
a cushion layer 162 which will be discussed in greater detail
below.
With continued reference to FIG. 7, the frame 154 is preferably a
rigid and substantially planar structure with a centrally located
passageway 155 which is configured to maintain communication
between the climate control system 152 and the cushion 156. The
frame 154 is preferably sufficiently rigid or semi rigid so as to
structurally support the seat assembly 150.
The intermediate layer 160 of the cushion 156 is configured to
distribute air from the climate controlled system 152 evenly
throughout the cushion layer 162. The cushion layer 162 inturn, is
configured to distribute the air to a front surface 164 of the seat
assembly 150. From the cushion layer 162, the air preferably passes
through the seat cover 158 to the front surface 164. While the air
is being distributed throughout the front surface 164, an occupant
is preferably in contact with the seat assembly 150 at the front
surface 164 of the seat cover 158.
With reference to FIG. 8, the intermediate layer 160 of the cushion
156 preferably comprises a channel system 166. The channel system
166 preferably passes through a thickness of the intermediate layer
160. In one embodiment, the intermediate layer 160 is made of
material that is pre-molded to form a channel system 166. In
another embodiment, the channel system 166 may be formed by
removing (e.g., cutting or boring) foam out of the intermediate
layer 160. The channel system 166 includes a central entrance
portion 170 and four distribution channels 172. The distribution
channels 172 preferably extend from the central portion 170 and
extend outwards towards distal ends of the intermediate layer 160.
The channel system 166 loosely resembles an X-shape that extends
from the corners of the intermediate layer 160 and crosses at the
central portion 170. The channel preferably passes through the
layer 160 completely forming open channels that allow air from the
climate controlled system 152 to flow evenly throughout the
distribution channels 172. As will be appreciated by one skilled in
the art, any suitable shape of the channel system 166 can be
utilized in the intermediate layer 160. Such alternative shapes may
include an H-shape, a Y-shape, or simply a large rectangle that
occupies a majority of the intermediate layer 160.
Preferably, a cross-sectional shape of the distribution channels
172 is generally rectangular. However, the cross-section of the
channels 172 can be modified to accommodate any desired flow
characteristics or optimal hydraulic shapes such as a V-shape or
inverted V-shape. The intermediate layer 160 is preferably formed
from typical automotive seat cushion foam. However, the
intermediate layer 160 can also be constructed from other types of
materials with suitable characteristics for providing support to an
occupant and for holding the shape of the channel system 166. For
example, certain preferred materials may include but are not
limited to closed or open celled foam. In the embodiment shown in
FIG. 7-9 it may be also suitable to make the intermediate layer 160
out of a rigid material such as injection molded plastic or
plywood.
FIG. 9 illustrates a top view of the cushion layer 162. The cushion
layer 162 preferably has a plurality of apertures 173 which pass
through a thickness of the cushion layer 162. In the illustrated
embodiment, the cushion layer 162 includes 14 apertures which
closely follow the path of the channel system 166 of the
intermediate layer 160. This pattern allows air flowing through the
distribution channels 172 to be evenly distributed to the apertures
173. The air can then pass from the distribution channels 172
through the apertures 173 and proceed toward the front surface
164.
In one embodiment, layer 162 is made of material that is pre-molded
to form the apertures 173. In another embodiment, the apertures 173
may be formed by removing (e.g., cutting or boring) foam out of the
cushion layer 162. It will also be appreciated by one skilled in
the art that the apertures 173 may comprise any number of apertures
in any configuration to optimize hydraulic characteristics of air
transfer. For example, there may be a greater or lesser number of
apertures of varying size and shape in the cushion layer 162.
Similar to the intermediate layer 160 of FIG. 8, the cushion layer
162 of FIG. 9 is preferably constructed from typical automotive
seat cushion foam. However, once again, other types of materials
with suitable characteristics may be used. For example, certain
preferred materials may include but are not limited to close or
open cell foam. It can also be appreciated by one skilled in the
art that the intermediate layer 160 of FIG. 8 and the cushion layer
162 of FIG. 9 may be made of a semi-rigid or rigid material. Such a
configuration may preferably be used alternatingly with having one
of the layers 160 or 162 rigid with the other layer a soft
cushion.
With returning reference to FIG. 7, the climate controlled seat
assembly 150 includes a seat cover 158 which preferably covers at
least a portion of the layers 162 and 160. The material is
preferably an air permeable fabric permitting air flow from the
cushion layer 162 to front surface 164. For example, in one
embodiment, the seat cover 158 comprises an air-permeable fabric
made of natural and/or synthetic fibers. In another embodiment, the
covering is formed from a leather, or leather-like material that is
provided with small openings or apertures.
FIG. 10 illustrates another embodiment of a climate controlled seat
assembly .[.150.]. .Iadd.150a.Iaddend.. Similar to the embodiment
illustrated in FIG. 7, the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 10
includes a climate controlled system 152, a frame 154, layers 160
and 162 and a seat cover 158. The frame 154, the intermediate layer
160, the cover 158, and the climate controlled system 152 are
substantially similar to the climate controlled seat assembly
embodiment of FIG. 7. The cushion layer .[.162.]. .Iadd.162a
.Iaddend.of FIG. 10 does present some differences from the cushion
layer 162 shown in FIGS. 7-9 as will be described below.
The cushion layer .[.162.]. .Iadd.162a .Iaddend.shown in FIGS. 11
and 12 is preferably a gel-filled layer. Although it is preferable
that the layer be gel-filled, it may be filled with any suitable
fluid or particulate that may produce a comfortable feel to an
occupant. The cushion layer .[.162.]. .Iadd.162a
.Iaddend.preferably comprises a lower layer 174 and an upper layer
176. The lower layer 174 and the upper layer 176 are preferably
fused together along outer edges to form gel pockets 184 in between
the two layers 174 and 176. The upper layer 176 and the lower layer
174 are further fused together along a channel system 178.
The channel system 178 preferably includes an upper channel 180 and
a lower channel (not shown). The upper channel 180 is preferably
formed in the upper layer 176 and the lower channel (not shown) is
preferably formed in the lower layer. The upper channel 180 and the
lower channel (not shown) are formed by the fusing of the layers
174 and 176 about an approximate planar centerline of the cushion
layer .[.162.]. .Iadd.162a.Iaddend.. The fused portion draws the
layers 174 and 176 towards the centerline of the cushion layer
.[.162.]. .Iadd.162a .Iaddend.and the fluid in between the layers
174 and 176 maintains a thickness around the sides of the fused
upper channel 180 and lower channel (not shown). Thus the raised
thickness provided by the fluid produces the sides of the upper
channel 180 and the lower channel (not shown). At the base of the
upper channel 180 and the lower channel (not shown) are apertures
182 which pass through the cushion layer 162. Similar to the
cushion layer 162 of FIG. 7, the apertures 182 of the cushion layer
.[.162.]. .Iadd.162a .Iaddend.of FIG. 11 closely follow the channel
system 166 of the intermediate layer 160. This allows the air from
the channel system .[.166.]. .Iadd.178 .Iaddend.to pass through the
apertures 182 and to the occupant sitting on the climate controlled
seat assembly .[.150.]. .Iadd.150a.Iaddend..
The channel system 178 of the cushion layer .[.162.]. .Iadd.162a
.Iaddend.preferably comprises the same general X-shape of the
channel system 166 of the intermediate layer 160. As discussed
above with reference to the layers 160 and .[.162.]. .Iadd.162a
.Iaddend.of FIGS. 7-9, the channel system 178 can be made in any
preferable shape. Furthermore, the channel system 178 may not be
used at all and the apertures 182 may be formed individually with
small areas of fused layers 174 and 176 adjacent to the apertures
182. Such a configuration may allow for more fluid or particulate
to be used in the cushion layer .[.162.]. .Iadd.162a.Iaddend..
Another possible configuration of the cushion layer .[.162.].
.Iadd.162a .Iaddend.may utilize pre-formed apertures 182 in the
cushion layer .[.162.]. .Iadd.162a.Iaddend.. Such a configuration
may comprise the layers 174 and 176 to be formed from a single
piece of plastic, or other suitable material, that may not require
fusing of two separate layers. Such a configuration may include the
apertures 182 to be pre-formed through the layer .[.162.].
.Iadd.162a .Iaddend.so as to crate a seamless pouch to contain a
fluid or particulate. Furthermore, such a seamless pouch may
comprise channels or apertures to be formed in the cushion layer
.[.162.]. .Iadd.162a.Iaddend..
The channel system 178 of the cushion layer .[.162.]. .Iadd.162a
.Iaddend.further defines four gel pouches 184. The gel pouches 184
are preferably configured to include a fluid or particulate within
the pouch that is movable within the pouch. This movability of the
fluid within the pouch 184 allows for the cushion layer .[.162.].
.Iadd.162a .Iaddend.to add comfort to the occupant by displacing
fluid away from pressure points between an occupant and the seat
assembly .[.150.]. .Iadd.150a.Iaddend..
The cushion layer .[.162.]. .Iadd.162a .Iaddend.is preferably made
of a plastic material but can be easily formed of any other
suitable material that may contain a fluid or particulate. The
plastic material may offer certain benefits when sealing the upper
layer 176 and the lower layer 174 in that it can easily be sealed
by heat. It may be also appreciated by one in the art that the
apertures 182 preferably pass through the sealed portion of the
channel system 178 of the cushion layer .[.162.].
.Iadd.162a.Iaddend.. This assures that the gel pouches 184 remain
fluid tight and substantially confine a fluid therein without
leaking due to the apertures 182.
FIG. 13 illustrates a perspective view of an assembly of another
embodiment of a climate controlled seat assembly .[.150.].
.Iadd.150b.Iaddend.. The climate controlled seat assembly .[.150.].
.Iadd.150b .Iaddend.of FIG. 13 is substantially similar to the
climate controlled seat systems .[.150.]. .Iadd.150a .Iaddend.of
FIG. 7 and FIG. 10. The climate controlled seat assembly .[.150.].
.Iadd.150b .Iaddend.of FIG. 13 includes a climate controlled system
152, a frame 154, a cushion .[.156.]. .Iadd.156b.Iaddend.,
comprising a cushion intermediate layer 160 and .[.162.].
.Iadd.162b.Iaddend., and a cover 158. The frame 154, the
intermediate layer 160, the cover 158, and the climate controlled
system 152 can be substantially similar to the climate controlled
seat assembly embodiment of FIGS. 7 and 10. As described below, the
cushion layer .[.162.]. .Iadd.162b .Iaddend.of FIG. 13 does present
some differences from the cushion layer .[.162.]. .Iadd.162a
.Iaddend.shown in FIGS. 7-12.
With reference to FIGS. 14 and 15, the cushion layer .[.162.].
.Iadd.162b .Iaddend.of the climate controlled seat assembly 150 of
FIG. 13 is preferably an air comfort layer .[.162.].
.Iadd.162b.Iaddend.. The air comfort layer .[.162.]. .Iadd.162b
.Iaddend.preferably includes a plurality of rectangular shaped air
pockets 186 that extend upwards away from a base layer 190. The
base layer 190 further comprises apertures 188 which pass through
the base layer and are in communication with the channel system 166
of the intermediate layer 160. The air pockets 186 are preferably
configured on a grid layout with space in between adjacent air
pockets 186. The apertures 188 preferably pass through the base
layer 190 in between the air pockets 186 so as to allow the air
pockets 186 to be substantially airtight. As similar to the cushion
layer .[.162.]. .Iadd.162b .Iaddend.of FIG. 11 and FIG. 12, the
apertures 188 of the cushion layer 162 on FIG. 14 and FIG. 15 are
arranged to closely follow the channel system 166 of the
intermediate layer 160.
Although the embodiment of the climate controlled seat assembly
.[.150.]. .Iadd.150b .Iaddend.shown in FIGS. 14 and 15 shows an air
comfort layer .[.162.]. .Iadd.162b .Iaddend.with discrete
rectangular shaped air pockets 186, other suitable configurations
may be used. Such alternate configurations may utilize air pockets
186 of varying size, shape, and orientation such as round or
octagonal cylinders in a circular, spiraling, or grid patterns. It
is also possible to form air pockets by fusing two layers similar
to the fluid cushion layer .[.162.]. .Iadd.162b .Iaddend.of FIGS.
10-12. Such a configuration my include a fused plurality of layers
or a single formed pocket with pre-formed apertures as described
above with reference to FIG. 10-12. Furthermore, in some
embodiments, the air comfort layer .[.162.]. .Iadd.162b
.Iaddend.may be configured so that the air pressure inside the air
pockets 186 is adjustable.
One advantage that may be realized by the embodiment of the climate
controlled seat assembly .[.150.]. .Iadd.150b .Iaddend.of FIG.
13-15 is that when the air flows from the intermediate layer 160
and through the base layer 190 of the cushion layer .[.162.].
.Iadd.162b .Iaddend.the air may then be very evenly distributed
using the space between the adjacent pockets 186 as flow passages.
This could be particularly advantageous in instances where it may
be desirable to achieve an air distribution beyond the pattern of
the apertures 188.
Although the embodiments of the climate controlled seat assembly
.[.150.]. .Iadd.150a, 150b .Iaddend.shown in FIGS. 7 through 15
include a single climate controlled system 152, it may be
appreciated by one skilled in the art that multiple climate
controlled systems 152 may be used. One such embodiment is shown in
FIGS. 16 and 17.
FIG. 16 is a top view of a frame .[.154.]. .Iadd.154c .Iaddend.with
two elongated holes 194 passing through the frame 154. Two climate
controlled systems 152 may be mounted in communication with the
holes 194 passing through the frame 154 of FIG. 16. This
configuration allows for two sources of air to enter the climate
controlled seat assembly .[.150.]. .Iadd.150c.Iaddend.. One
advantage of such a configuration is that the air may have a
shorter distance to travel to distribute air to the climate
controlled seat assembly .[.150.]. .Iadd.150c.Iaddend.. This could
be advantageous in that the air will have a shorter distance to
travel and thus a shorter time to alter the desired temperature
(heating of cold air or cooling of hot air).
With reference to FIG. 17, correspondingly the intermediate layer
.[.160.]. .Iadd.160c .Iaddend.may include a channel system
.[.166.]. .Iadd.166c .Iaddend.that includes two separate
distribution channels 172. The distribution channels .[.172.].
.Iadd.172c .Iaddend.of the intermediate layer .[.160.]. .Iadd.160c
.Iaddend.of FIG. 17 are not connected by a central portion. Each of
the distribution channels shown in FIG. 17 are independently fed
air by a climate controlled system 152. In the embodiment shown in
FIGS. 16 and 17, the climate controlled seat assembly .[.150.].
.Iadd.150c .Iaddend.may include the layers 162 of FIG. 7, 10 or 13
as may be appreciated by one skilled in the art.
Another feature of the frame 154 of FIG. 16 is that the holes 194
are located at distal ends of the distribution channels 172. This
allows the air from the climate control systems 152 to enter at one
end of the distribution channels 172. In some other embodiments the
holes 194 may be located in a more central location of the frame
.[.154.]. .Iadd.154c .Iaddend.so as to feed air to a central
portion of the distribution channels .[.172.]. .Iadd.172c.Iaddend..
It has also been contemplated that the location of the holes 194
may be used in combination with any of the aforementioned
embodiments of the climate controlled seat assembly .[.150.].
.Iadd.150c.Iaddend.. One such example could include a single hole
194 that is located at a distal end of a distribution channel 172
of FIG. 3 so as to feed air to the channel system 166 from a single
distal end.
Although the embodiment of the climate control seat system has been
disclosed with reference to a seat back as illustrated in FIGS.
7-17, it has also been contemplated that in some embodiments the
system may comprise other portions of seats such as side panels,
arm rests or head rests. Such other embodiments could be easily
achieved using the above disclosed technology.
Furthermore, it has been disclosed in the above described
embodiments that the climate controlled system 152 of FIGS. 7-17 is
attached to a frame 154. Other embodiments may include a remote
climate control system 152 that is in communication with the
climate control seat assembly 150 by means of passageways such as
tubing or hoses. Such tubing or hoses can further be in
communication with multiple portions of a seat such as arm rests or
head rests by a branching system of passageways. Such a
configuration could be achieved with a single or multiple climate
control systems 152.
Although the above described embodiments of the climate controlled
systems of FIGS. 1-17 have been described with reference to seats,
it has been contemplated that the technology may be also used with
beds. One such embodiment may employ some of the features, aspects,
or advantages disclosed with reference to FIGS. 1-6. Such an
embodiment may employ the apertures to be formed in a mattress or
along sides of the mattress, while the channels or recesses may be
formed in support member of the box spring or mattress foundation.
Such an embodiment may be particularly advantageous when using a
viscoelastic mattress and may also be used with other mattresses
such as those utilizing air or water.
Furthermore, another embodiment of a climate controlled system
comprising a bed may utilize the technology described in FIGS.
7-17. Such an embodiment may comprise apertures to be formed in a
mattress layer and channels or recesses to be formed and a support
member of a box support, which may comprise an intermediate layer.
Additionally, such an embodiment of a climate controlled bed may
comprise an additional intermediate layer which may comprise a
portion of a support box or a mattress. Such an embodiment
comprising an additional intermediate layer may include a mattress
with an additional air cushion layer wherein the additional air
cushion layer may comprise apertures for the passage of air. Such
an embodiment may be configured similarly to the seat cushion 150
of FIG. 13 and may further comprise the air cushion layer to be
adjustable.
To assist in the description of the disclosed embodiments, words
such as upward, upper, downward, lower, vertical, horizontal,
upstream, and downstream have and used above to describe the
accompanying figures. It will be appreciated, however, that the
illustrated embodiments can be located and oriented in a variety of
desired positions.
Although this invention has been disclosed in the context of
certain preferred embodiments and examples, it will be understood
by those skilled in the art that the present invention extends
beyond the specifically disclosed embodiments to other alternative
embodiments and/or uses of the invention and obvious modifications
and equivalents thereof. In addition, while a number of variations
of the invention have been shown and described in detail, other
modifications, which are within the scope of this invention, will
be readily apparent to those of skill in the art based upon this
disclosure. It is also contemplated that various combinations or
subcombinations of the specific features and aspects of the
embodiments may be made and still fall within the scope of the
invention. Accordingly, it should be understood that various
features and aspects of the disclosed embodiments can be combine
with or substituted for one another in order to form varying modes
of the disclosed invention. Thus, it is intended that the scope of
the present invention herein disclosed should not be limited by the
particular disclosed embodiments described above, but should be
determined only by a fair reading of the claims that follow.
* * * * *