CN217969182U - Air regulator assembly - Google Patents

Abstract

The present disclosure provides a "register assembly". A register assembly comprising: a frame having a first side and a second side opposite the first side, wherein the frame is operable between a first position and a second position; at least one vane extending between a third side of the frame and a fourth side of the frame, wherein the third and fourth sides extend between the first and second sides; a shaft coupled to the second side of the frame, wherein the shaft extends away from the first side of the frame; and a variable resistor operably coupled to the frame, wherein a movable terminal of the variable resistor is coupled to the shaft, and wherein the current measured by the variable resistor is adjusted as the frame moves between the first position and the second position.

Description

Air regulator assembly

Technical Field

The present disclosure generally relates to a ventilation system. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to a ventilation system for a vehicle.

Background

Vehicles typically include vents for directing air to passengers within the vehicle. The vents typically direct air from the hvac system. The vent may be adjustable to change the direction of airflow through the vent.

SUMMERY OF THE UTILITY MODEL

The utility model provides a prior art's technical problem.

In accordance with at least one aspect of the present disclosure, a vehicle ventilation system includes a duct defining an outlet that directs air into an interior compartment. A register assembly is operably coupled to the air chute proximate the outlet. The register assembly includes a frame. A blade is rotatably coupled to the frame. A variable resistor is operably coupled to the frame. The user interface has a display. A controller is communicatively coupled to the user interface and the variable resistor. The controller receives a signal from the variable resistor and determines a position of the register assembly in response to the signal.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a register assembly includes a frame having a first side and a second side opposite the first side. The frame is operable between a first position and a second position. At least one vane extends between the third side of the frame and the fourth side of the frame. The third and fourth sides extend between the first and second sides. A shaft is coupled to the second side of the frame. The shaft extends away from the first side of the frame. A variable resistor is operably coupled to the frame. The movable terminal of the variable resistor is coupled to the shaft. The current measured by the variable resistor is adjusted as the frame moves between the first position and the second position.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a register assembly includes a frame having a first side and a second side. The frame is operable between a first position and a second position. A vane is rotatably coupled to the third side of the frame and the fourth side of the frame. The blade includes a protrusion extending through the frame. A vane position indicator is coupled to the projection. The blade position indicator rotates within a rotational angle of the blade. A frame position indicator is coupled to the frame. The frame position indicator adjusts with the frame as the frame moves between the first position and the second position.

These and other aspects, objects, and features of the present disclosure will be understood and appreciated by those skilled in the art upon studying the following specification, claims, and appended drawings.

Drawings

The following is a description of the figures in the drawings. The figures are not necessarily to scale and certain features and certain views of the figures may be shown exaggerated in scale or in schematic in the interest of clarity and conciseness.

In the drawings:

figure 1 is a partial front perspective view of an instrument panel within an interior compartment of a vehicle having a ventilation system according to the present disclosure;

FIG. 2 is a front perspective view of a portion of a register assembly and a duct according to the present disclosure;

FIG. 3 is a rear perspective view of the register assembly separated from the air chute according to the present disclosure;

FIG. 4 is a rear perspective view of a register assembly having a position indicator assembly according to the present disclosure;

FIG. 5 is a side perspective view of a register assembly engaging a portion of a wind tunnel and having a position indicator assembly according to the present disclosure;

FIG. 6 is a side elevational view of the register assembly and air chute of FIG. 5;

FIG. 7 is a bottom plan view of the register assembly and air chute of FIG. 5;

FIG. 8 is a front perspective view of a register assembly with a position indicator assembly disposed within a wind tunnel according to the present disclosure;

FIG. 9 is a bottom perspective view of a portion of a duct coupled to a register assembly according to the present disclosure;

FIG. 10 is a bottom plan view of the air duct and register assembly of FIG. 9;

FIG. 11 is a block diagram of a ventilation system for a vehicle according to the present disclosure;

FIG. 12 is a bottom schematic view of an actuation assembly engaging a gear coupled to a register assembly according to the present disclosure;

FIG. 13 is a side perspective view of a register assembly with indicator lights according to the present disclosure; and

FIG. 14 is a side perspective view of a register assembly having a plurality of indicator lights according to the present disclosure.

Detailed Description

Additional features and advantages of the presently disclosed apparatus will be set forth in the detailed description which follows, and in part will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art from that description or recognized by practicing the apparatus as described in the following description, claims, and appended drawings.

For purposes of the description herein, the terms "upper," "lower," "right," "left," "rear," "front," "vertical," "horizontal," and derivatives thereof shall relate to the concepts as oriented in fig. 1. It is to be understood, however, that the concepts may assume various alternative orientations, except where expressly specified to the contrary. It is also to be understood that the specific devices and processes illustrated in the attached drawings, and described in the following specification are simply exemplary embodiments of the inventive concepts defined in the appended claims. Hence, specific dimensions and other physical characteristics relating to the embodiments disclosed herein are not to be considered as limiting, unless the claims expressly state otherwise.

As used herein, the term "and/or," when used in reference to two or more items listed, means that any one of the listed items can be employed alone, or any combination of two or more of the listed items can be employed. For example, if a composition is described as containing components a, B and/or C, the composition may contain: only A; only B; only C; a combination of A and B; a combination of A and C; a combination of B and C; or a combination of A, B and C.

As used herein, the terms "the", "a", or "an" mean "at least one" and should not be limited to "only one" unless explicitly indicated to the contrary. Thus, for example, reference to "a component" includes embodiments having two or more such components, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

In this document, relational terms such as first and second, top and bottom, and the like may be used solely to distinguish one entity or action from another entity or action without necessarily requiring or implying any actual such relationship or order between such entities or actions. The terms "comprises," "comprising," or any other variation thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements does not include only those elements but may include other elements not expressly listed or inherent to such process, method, article, or apparatus. An element preceded with "comprising", without further restriction, does not exclude the presence of other identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises the element.

Referring to fig. 1-14, the reference numeral 10 generally designates a ventilation system for a vehicle 12. The air chute 14 defines an outlet 16 that directs air into an interior compartment 18. The register assembly 20 is operatively coupled to the air chute 14 proximate the outlet 16. The register assembly 20 includes a frame 22, a blade 24 rotatably coupled to the frame 22, and a variable resistor 26 operatively coupled to the frame 22. The user interface 28 has a display 30. The controller is communicatively coupled to the user interface 28 and the variable resistor 26. The controller 32 receives the signal from the variable resistor 26 and determines the position of the register assembly 20 in response to the signal.

The vehicle 12 includes an interior compartment 18 that includes a seat assembly 40 for supporting an occupant of the vehicle 12. A dash or instrument panel 42 extends in the lateral direction of the vehicle in a forward portion of the vehicle adjacent the interior compartment 18 of the seat assembly 40. The instrument panel 42 is typically a panel member constructed of a plastic material. The instrument panel 42 defines a vent opening 44. The outlet 16 of the air chute 14 is generally aligned with the vent opening 44 to fluidly couple the interior compartment 18 with a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system for the vehicle 12. The vehicle 12 generally includes a plurality of register assemblies 20, with at least one register assembly 20 disposed in each vent opening 44 to direct airflow from the HVAC system to the interior compartment 18. The HVAC system typically cleans, cools, heats, conditions, ventilates, and/or dehumidifies air directed into the interior compartment 18. An occupant or other user in the vehicle 12 may utilize the register assembly 20 to direct air at a certain location or in a certain direction to increase occupant comfort.

The vehicle 12 may be a sedan, a sport utility vehicle, a van, a truck, a cross-over vehicle, or other type of wheeled motor vehicle 12, or other type of vehicle 12. The vehicle 12 may be a manually operated vehicle 12 (e.g., human driver), a fully autonomous vehicle 12 (e.g., unmanned driver), or a partially autonomous vehicle 12 (e.g., operated with or without human driver). Additionally, the vehicle 12 may be used for personal and/or business purposes, such as for providing ride services (e.g., drive-by-vehicle delivery) and/or sharing ride services.

Referring to fig. 1 and 2, the register assembly 20 is at least partially disposed within the air chute 14 proximate the outlet 16. A portion of the air chute 14 is shown in fig. 2 near the bottom of the register assembly 20. The portion of the air chute 14 is shown to illustrate the interaction between the air chute 14 and the register assembly 20. It should be understood, however, that the air duct 14 extends around the register assembly, as best shown in FIG. 8. Still referring to fig. 1 and 2, the air chute 14 may extend downstream of the register assembly 20 (e.g., into the interior compartment 18). Thus, the register assembly 20 may be retracted from the outlet 16, which may provide space for movement of the register assembly 20.

The damper assembly 20 rotates between a first position and a second position relative to the air chute 14. During rotation, the register assembly 20 may extend beyond the outlet 16 of the air chute 14 into the interior compartment 18, or alternatively may not extend substantially beyond the outlet 16. The register assemblies 20 rotate about a central vertical axis to direct air in various vehicle lateral directions. For example, when the damper assembly 20 is in a first position, air may be directed in a first vehicle lateral direction (e.g., toward the driver side), and when the damper assembly 20 is in a second position, air may be directed in an opposite second vehicle lateral direction (e.g., toward the passenger side). The position of the register assembly 20, and thus the direction of airflow extending through the register assembly 20, may be manually adjusted by an occupant within the vehicle 12. The occupant may apply a force to the register assembly 20, allowing the register assembly 20 to rotate about the vertical axis between the first and second positions.

Still referring to fig. 2, the register assembly 20 includes a frame 22 having a first side 50 disposed generally parallel to a second side 52 and a third side 54 disposed generally parallel to a fourth side 56. Third and fourth sides 54, 56 extend between first and second sides 50, 52. The corners between each of the first, second, third, and fourth sides 50, 52, 54, and 56, respectively, are generally rounded, which may help the frame 22 rotate more smoothly between the first and second positions.

The register assembly 20 generally includes a number (e.g., a plurality) of blades 24 arranged in a parallel configuration. The vane 24 extends between the third and fourth sides 54, 56 of the frame 22 and is rotatably coupled to the third and fourth sides 54, 56 of the frame 22. Typically, blades 24 extend horizontally. Each vane 24 includes a coupling tab 58 that extends upstream of and proximate to the fourth side 56 of the frame 22. It is contemplated that the coupling tab 58 may be disposed adjacent the third side 54 of the frame 22 without departing from the teachings herein. The register assembly 20 includes a link 62 disposed upstream of and adjacent to the fourth side 56 of the frame 22. Links 62 couple blades 24 to one another. In this manner, when a user engages at least one of the vanes 24, all of the vanes 24 rotate simultaneously. The vanes 24 are operable between a first angle and a second angle, which vertically adjusts the airflow extending through the register assembly 20. Thus, the frame 22 is adjustable between a first position and a second position to adjust the airflow in the lateral direction of the vehicle, and the vanes 24 are adjustable between a first angle and a second angle to adjust the height of the airflow.

Referring to fig. 3, the second side 52 of the frame 22 includes a platform 70 that extends upstream (e.g., into the air chute 14 away from the interior compartment 18). Support features 72 are coupled to and extend from the platform 70. Support features 72 extend further upstream away from blades 24. The guide assembly 74 includes guide features 76A-76D, collectively referred to herein as guide features 76, that extend vertically or transversely to the blades 24.

The shape of each guide feature 76 maximizes rotation of the frame 22 within the air chute 14. For example, the guide feature 76A includes a chamfered edge 78 to minimize interaction between the guide feature 76A and the air chute 14 (fig. 2). The guide features 76B, 76C have rounded edges 80 that minimize interaction between the guide features 76B, 76C and the air chute 14 as the frame 22 rotates between the first and second positions. Additionally or alternatively, the guide features 76D coupled to the support features 72 are centrally disposed relative to the frame 22 to minimize interaction between the support features 72 and the guide features 76D and the air chute 14 as the frame 22 rotates within the air chute 14. The directing assembly 74 helps direct air as the frame 22 is adjusted between the first and second positions. Each of the guide features 76 is stationary relative to the frame 22. Thus, the guide features 76 are adjusted with rotation of the frame 22 but not independently of the frame 22. The register assembly 20 includes horizontal vanes 24 and vertical guide features 76 for guiding or directing the airflow into the inner compartment 18.

Guide feature 76A is coupled to both guide features 76B, 76C via coupling rod 82. Guide feature 76A is disposed vertically above guide features 76C, 76D such that a bottom edge of guide feature 76A is horizontally aligned with a top edge of each of guide features 76B, 76C. The guide features 76B, 76C are horizontally aligned with each other. The bottom edges of the guide features 76B, 76C are horizontally aligned with the top edge of the guide feature 76D. Thus, guide features 76B, 76C are vertically offset from guide features 76A and 76D. The guide features 76B, 76C are coupled to the guide feature 76D via the coupling rod 84. Guide feature 76D is vertically aligned with guide feature 76A. The bottom edge of guide feature 76D is coupled to support feature 72. Thus, the engagement between the guide feature 76D and the support feature 72 provides a direct connection between the guide assembly 74 and the frame 22.

Still referring to fig. 3 and 4, the frame 22 includes a shaft 90 extending from a B-stage surface 92 of the platform 70. As used herein, the term "class a surface" refers to a surface that is visible or accessible to an occupant of the vehicle 12 when any of the components within the vehicle 12 are in an assembled state. In contrast, the term "class B surface" refers to a surface that is hidden from or inaccessible to occupants within the vehicle 12 by any components within the vehicle 12 when the components are in an assembled state. Thus, the shaft 90 extends from the inaccessible hidden portion of the frame 22. The shaft 90 extends from the second side 52 away from the first side 50 and through the air chute 14 (as best shown in FIG. 6). The shaft 90 acts as a pivot point allowing the register assembly 20 to rotate about a vertical axis between a first position and a second position. The shaft 90 defines a notch 94 at its distal end spaced from the second side 52.

Referring to fig. 4 and 5-7, the register assembly 20 includes a position indicator assembly 100 for providing visual feedback to a passenger or user regarding the position of the frame 22 and blades 24. The position indicator assembly 100 includes a frame position indicator 102 and a blade position indicator 104. The frame position indicator 102 is generally coupled to the shaft 90 and positioned within the notch 94 (fig. 3). The notch 94 holds the frame position indicator 102 in a selected position relative to the frame 22.

A vane position indicator 104 is coupled to at least one of the vanes 24. Third side 54 and fourth side 56 of frame 22 define an aperture 110 for receiving blade 24 and allowing blade 24 to rotate between a first angle and a second angle. Typically, the vanes 24 do not extend beyond the outer surface of the third and fourth sides 54, 56 of the frame 22. However, one of the vanes 24 includes a protrusion 112 that extends through the corresponding aperture 110 to extend beyond the outer surface of the fourth side 56. Blade position indicator 104 is coupled to a tab 112 of blade 24 adjacent an outer surface of frame 22. Generally, blade 24 coupled to blade position indicator 104 is centrally located, however, blade position indicator 104 may be coupled to any blade 24 without departing from the teachings herein.

Still referring to fig. 5-7, the frame position indicator 102 and the blade position indicator 104 provide visual feedback to a passenger or user. The frame position indicator 102 and the blade position indicator 104 extend in a downstream direction from the frame 22 toward the interior compartment 18 (fig. 1). As previously described, the frame position indicator 102 is coupled to the shaft 90. The second side 52 of the frame 22 is disposed on a first side of the air chute 14 proximate to a class a surface 116 of the air chute 14, and the frame position indicator 102 is disposed on an opposite side of the air chute 14 proximate to a class B surface 118 of the air chute 14. The frame position indicator 102 extends into the interior compartment 18 between the air chute 14 and the instrument panel 42, or alternatively through an aperture in the instrument panel 42, to be visible to the occupant and provide visual feedback of the position of the frame 22 (as best shown in fig. 8).

The frame position indicator 102 includes a protrusion 124 extending vertically from an end thereof. The projections 124 extend upwardly toward the air chute 14. The passenger may utilize the protrusion 124 to determine the position of the frame 22, as discussed in further detail herein. The frame position indicator 102 adjusts as the frame 22 rotates, but cannot adjust independently of the frame 22. Thus, as the frame 22 is adjusted between the first and second positions, the frame position indicator 102 is also adjusted to provide visual feedback of the position of the frame 22.

Vane position indicators 104 provide visual feedback of the position or angle of vanes 24. The vane position indicator 104 is disposed adjacent the fourth side 56 of the frame 22. The vane 24 is generally positioned within the space defined by the frame 22, and the vane position indicator 104 is disposed outside of the space. The vane position indicator 104 extends in a downstream direction. Generally, blade position indicator 104 is parallel to blade 24 having tab 112. As blade 24 rotates between the first angle and the second angle, blade position indicator 104 is simultaneously adjusted due to the engagement between blade position indicator 104 and tab 112. Additionally or alternatively, the blade position indicator 104 includes a protrusion 126 extending horizontally from an end of the blade position indicator 104. The tab 126 extends horizontally toward the blade 24. A blade position indicator 104 extends into the interior compartment 18 between the frame 22 and the air chute 14 to provide a visual indication to passengers of the angle of the blades 24.

Still referring to fig. 5-7 and 8, the vane position indicator 104 extends beyond the downstream edge of the vane 24. The frame position indicator 102 extends beyond the blade position indicator 104 and beyond the edge of the air chute 14 that defines the outlet 16. In other words, the length of the frame position indicator 102 is greater than the length of the blade position indicator 104. Thus, each of the frame position indicator 102 and the blade position indicator 104 extends at least partially beyond the instrument panel 42 into the interior compartment 18 to be visible to the passengers while substantially not affecting movement of the frame 22.

The position indicator assembly 100 includes a frame measurement feature 130 disposed on the instrument panel 42 adjacent the frame position indicator 102 and a blade measurement feature 132 disposed on the instrument panel 42 adjacent the blade position indicator 104. Each of the frame measurement feature 130 and the blade measurement feature 132 is positioned on or defined by an exterior surface 134 of the instrument panel 42 to be visible to an occupant within the vehicle 12. In the illustrated configuration, the frame measurement feature 130 and the blade measurement feature 132 are measurement lines having indicator markings along the measurement lines with which the frame position indicators 102 and the blade position indicators 104, respectively, may be aligned.

Thus, a user may adjust the frame 22 to a desired position by aligning the tabs 124 of the frame position indicator 102 with particular indications or markings on the frame measurement features 130. Similarly, the user may adjust the vane 24, which consequently adjusts the vane position indicator 104. The user may position the blade 24 at a desired angle by aligning the tab 126 of the blade position indicator 104 with a particular indication or marking of the blade measurement feature 132. As the frame 22 rotates between the first and second positions, the blade position indicator 104 moves closer to and away from the blade measurement feature 132. The blade position indicator 104 and the blade measurement feature 132 may be configured such that a comparison of the blade position indicator 104 and the blade measurement feature 132 may be achieved when the frame 22 is in any position. The position indicator assembly 100 may provide feedback for laterally and vertically adjusting the register assembly 20 to a desired airflow position by aligning the frame position indicator 102 and the blade position indicator 104 with the frame measurement feature 130 and the blade measurement feature 132, respectively.

Referring to fig. 9 and 10, additional or alternative configurations of the register assembly 20 are shown. The register assembly 20 may provide visual feedback to the passenger or user of the position of the register assembly 20 through the variable resistor 26. A variable resistor 26 is operatively coupled with at least one of the frame 22 and the air chute 14 to sense or measure the position of the frame 22. The variable resistor 26 includes two fixed terminals 142, 144 coupled to the B-stage surface 118 of the wind tunnel 14. The resistive material 146 extends around an aperture 148 through which the shaft 90 extends. The resistive material 146 is in contact with each of the fixed terminals 142, 144. The movable terminal 150 of the variable resistor 26 is coupled to the shaft 90 proximate the class B surface 118 of the air chute 14. The movable terminal 150 is configured to move relative to the resistive material 146 as the frame 22 is adjusted between the first and second positions. Typically, each of the terminals 142, 144, 150 is composed of metal. The variable resistor 26 is typically configured as a carbon print resistor (carbon print resistor).

Still referring to fig. 10 and 11, the power source 152 is in communication with at least the fixed terminal 142 of the variable resistor 26. The power source 152 may be a general power source 152 for the vehicle 12 or may be a separate power source 152 designated for the ventilation system 10. The power supply 152 provides a predefined voltage or current to the variable resistor 26. The predefined voltage may be, for example, about 5V, although the power supply 152 may provide any predefined voltage without departing from the teachings herein. The position of the movable terminal 150 on the resistive material 146 determines the resistance of the variable resistor 26. The movable terminal 150 operates to divide the resistive material 146 into two portions. One portion extends between the fixed terminal 142 and the movable terminal 150, and a second portion extends between the movable terminal 150 and the fixed terminal 144. The fixed terminal 144 determines the output of the variable resistor 26. The length of the second portion between the fixed terminal 144 and the movable terminal 150 is adjusted as the frame 22 is adjusted between the first position and the second position, which adjusts the resistance or current sensed at the fixed terminal 144. The longer the portion of resistive material 146 between the movable terminal 150 and the fixed terminal 144, the greater the resistance measured by the variable resistor 26. As the resistance of the variable resistor 26 increases, the current through the circuit decreases, and vice versa.

The resistance sensed by the variable resistor 26 may correspond to the position of the register assembly 20 as compared to a predefined voltage. The ventilation system 10 generally includes a controller 32 communicatively coupled to the variable resistor 26. The controller 32 includes a processor 162, memory 164, and other control circuitry. Instructions or programs 166 are stored in the memory 164 and executable by the processor 162. The controller 32 may be part of a climate control system of the vehicle 12 or may be a designated controller 32 for the ventilation system 10. The controller 32 sends a signal to the power supply 152 to provide a predefined voltage to the variable resistor 26. When the power supply 152 provides a predefined voltage to the variable resistor 26, the variable resistor 26 measures the resistance at the fixed terminal 144 and provides a signal to the controller 32.

In general, the variable resistor 26 provides an analog signal to the controller 32. The controller 32 includes one or more programs 166 for converting the analog signals from the variable resistors 26 to digital signals. The digital signal corresponds to a position of the frame 22 between the first and second positions (e.g., including the first and second positions and all intermediate positions). Thus, the ventilation system 10 may utilize the variable resistor 26 to determine the current position of the frame 22. The controller 32 may communicate position information (e.g., digital signals corresponding to the position) to the user interface 28, and the user interface 28 may communicate the position information of the register assembly 20 via the display 30. Displaying the location information allows the user to receive visual feedback of the location of the airflow that may be personalized or optimized within the vehicle 12. The passenger or user may view the location information on the display 30 and will adjust the register assembly 20 to the same location. It is also contemplated that variable resistor 26 or additional variable resistors 26 may operate in conjunction with blades 24 to determine the angle of blades 24. In such a configuration, angle information corresponding to the angle of blades 24 may be displayed on user interface 28.

Still referring to fig. 11 and 12, the ventilation system 10 may include an actuation assembly 170 communicatively coupled with the controller 32 and operably coupled with the register assembly 20. The actuation assembly 170 includes a motor 172 configured to drive a gear, rack and pinion assembly or other actuator. The actuation assembly 170 is in communication with a gear assembly 174 coupled to the register assembly 20. The first gear 176 of the gear assembly 174 is coupled to an insulating cover 178 that is at least partially disposed over the variable resistor 26. The insulating cover 178 may also be coupled to the shaft 90 of the frame 22. The first gear 176 is operably coupled to at least one of the shaft 90 and the insulating cover 178, and engages a second gear 180 of the gear assembly 174.

The controller 32 may automatically adjust the position of the register assembly 20 via the actuation assembly 170 and the gear assembly 174. Thus, the controller 32 may utilize the variable resistor 26 to determine the position of the register assembly 20 and may utilize the actuation assembly 170 and the gear assembly 174 to adjust the register assembly 20 to a different selected position as detected or sensed by the variable resistor 26. The newly selected location may be a predefined location defined by user settings stored in the memory 164 of the controller or may be a selection input by the user via the user interface 28. Accordingly, the ventilation system 10 may automatically detect the position of the frame 22 and adjust the position of the frame 22 using the variable resistor 26. It is also contemplated that actuation assembly 170 may be operably coupled to blades 24 without departing from the teachings herein.

In operation, the power supply 152 provides a predefined voltage to the variable resistor 26 when activated by the controller 32. The variable resistor 26 measures the resistance and sends an analog signal corresponding to the resistance to the controller 32. The controller 32 receives the analog signal and converts the analog signal to a digital signal corresponding to the position of the register assembly 20. The controller 32 communicates digital signals (e.g., location information) to the user interface 28 for display to the passenger on the display 30. The passenger may note the position of the register assembly 20 on the display 30. Additionally or alternatively, the passenger may select a new location if the location information is not the passenger's desired location. The controller 32 may receive the new position information and activate the actuation assembly 170 to adjust the register assembly 20 to the new position by engaging the gear assembly 174. The controller 32 may monitor the resistance sensed by the variable resistor 26 to determine when the register assembly 20 is in the newly selected position. The new location information may be displayed on the user interface 28 to provide visual feedback of the adjustment.

Referring to fig. 13, the register assembly 20 may include a feedback feature 188 used in combination with or independently of at least one of the position indicator assembly 100 and the variable resistor 26. Feedback feature 188 may include an indicator light 190 coupled to or integrally formed with at least one of blades 24. The controller 32 may illuminate the indicator light 190 when the register assembly 20 is in the selected position. The selected position may include at least one of a position of frame 22 and an angle of blade 24. Typically, the selected location optimizes airflow conditions for the occupant. For example, the selected location may be an optimized airflow directly to the occupant. The indicator light 190 may illuminate when airflow is directed to an occupant of the seat assembly 40. Alternatively, if the user preferences stored in the memory 164 indicate that the occupant prefers airflow adjacent the seat assembly 40, the indicator light 190 is illuminated when the airflow is directed to a user-defined location adjacent the seat assembly 40.

The indicator light 190 provides feedback to the occupant to confirm the selected position of the register assembly 20 without viewing the user interface 28 or another indicator on the instrument panel 42. The indicator light 190 may be used with the register assembly 20 shown in fig. 2-8 and the register assembly 20 shown in fig. 9-12 without departing from the teachings herein. For example, the indicator light 190 is illuminated by the controller 32 when the actuation assembly 170 adjusts the register assembly 20 to a newly selected position that is sensed by the variable resistor 26 and confirmed by the controller 32. The controller 32 may sense the position of the register assembly 20 through the variable resistor 26 or another sensor or user input to confirm the selected position and activate the indicator light 190.

Referring to fig. 14, feedback feature 188 may include indicator lights 196 coupled to each blade 24 or integrally formed with each blade 24 (e.g., one indicator light 196 per blade 24). Indicator light 196 may be illuminated when blade 24 is at a predefined angle. Typically, the predefined angle is an open position that allows airflow through the register assembly 20. Additionally or alternatively, the indicator lamp 196 may be illuminated when the vehicle 12 is started. When integrally formed with the vanes 24, the illuminated indicator light 196 may be visible to an occupant when the vanes 24 are in the open position and may not be visible (e.g., may be obscured) when the vanes 24 are in the closed position preventing airflow through the register assembly 20. Thus, the indicator light 196 provides feedback as to whether air is traveling through the register assembly 20. The indicator light 196 may be used with the register assembly 20 shown in fig. 2-8 and the configuration of the register assembly 20 shown in fig. 9-12. Further, it is contemplated that indicator light 196 may be used in conjunction with or independent of indicator light 190.

Referring to fig. 1-14, the register assembly 20 provides a directed airflow into the interior compartment 18 of the vehicle 12. The vanes 24 regulate the airflow vertically, while the frame 22 regulates the airflow horizontally. The register assembly 20 may include a position indicator assembly 100 to provide visual feedback to the occupant of the position of the blade 24 and the frame 22. This configuration allows a passenger or user to easily determine the position of the frame 22 and blades 24 that provide the best or desired airflow into the interior compartment 18. Additionally or alternatively, the register assembly 20 may include a variable resistor 26 that senses the position of the frame 22. The position of the frame 22 may be determined by the controller 32 and displayed to the occupant via the user interface 28. This configuration allows the passenger to visually confirm the location at which the optimized or desired airflow is provided by the register assembly 20. It is contemplated that the register assembly 20 may include one or both of a position indicator assembly 100 and a variable resistor 26. Additionally or alternatively, the register assembly 20 may communicate with the actuation assembly 170 to automatically adjust the position of at least one of the blades 24 and the frame 22. Within the vehicle 12, various features (e.g., steering wheel, etc.) may impede airflow from the register assembly 20, and the ventilation system 10 allows the occupant to adjust the register assembly 20 to maximize airflow to provide an optimized experience.

The use of the present device may provide a number of advantages. For example, the register assembly 20 may direct air into the interior compartment 18. Additionally, the register assembly 20 may include a position indicator assembly 100 that provides visual feedback of the angle of the blade 24 and the position of the frame 22. Moreover, the position indicator assembly 100 allows a user to compare the frame position indicator 102 to the frame measurement feature 130, and the blade position indicator 104 to the blade measurement feature 132. The user may then note down the measurement and easily return the register assembly 20 to the selected location. Further, the register assembly 20 may include a variable resistor 26 operatively coupled thereto. In addition, the variable resistor 26 may sense the position of the frame 22 and communicate the position to the controller 32. Also, the controller 32 may interpret the signal from the variable resistor 26 and display position information on the user interface 28 regarding the position of the register assembly 20. In addition, controller 32 may activate actuation assembly 170 to automatically adjust the position of frame 22 and/or blades 24.

Further, the register assembly 20 may include a feedback feature 188. The register assembly 20 may include an indicator light 190 that may be illuminated when the register assembly 20 is in a selected position. Further, the register assembly 20 may include an indicator light 196 that may provide the following visual feedback to the passenger: the register assembly 20 allows airflow to travel through the register assembly 20 and into the inner compartment 18. Additionally, the register assembly 20 with various features that provide visual feedback allows the occupant to maximize comfort and interior temperature within the vehicle 12. Additional benefits or advantages may also be realized and/or attained.

According to various examples, a vehicle ventilation system includes a duct defining an outlet that directs air into an interior compartment. A register assembly is operably coupled to the air chute proximate the outlet. The register assembly includes a frame. A blade is rotatably coupled to the frame. A variable resistor is operably coupled to the frame. The user interface has a display. A controller is communicatively coupled to the user interface and the variable resistor. The controller receives a signal from the variable resistor and determines a position of the register assembly in response to the signal. Embodiments of the present disclosure may include one or a combination of the following features:

-a power source operably coupled to the variable resistor, wherein the power source provides a predefined current to the variable resistor;

-the controller communicating the position of the register assembly to the user interface, wherein the user interface displays the position;

-the frame comprises a shaft extending through the air duct, wherein the shaft is coupled to the movable terminal of the variable resistor;

-an indicator light coupled to the blade, wherein the controller activates the indicator light when the blade is at a predefined angle;

-an indicator light integrally formed with the blade, wherein the indicator light is visible when the blade is set to a first angle and is obscured when the blade is set to a second angle;

-the variable resistor is provided on a first side of the wind tunnel and the vanes are provided on a second side of the wind tunnel;

-at least a portion of the variable resistor is coupled to a class B surface of the air duct; and

-the variable resistor is a carbon printed resistor.

According to various examples, a register assembly includes a frame having a first side and a second side opposite the first side. The frame is operable between a first position and a second position. At least one vane extends between the third side of the frame and the fourth side of the frame. The third side and the fourth side extend between the first side and the second side. A shaft is coupled to the second side of the frame. The shaft extends away from the first side of the frame. A variable resistor is operably coupled to the frame. The movable terminal of the variable resistor is coupled to the shaft. The current measured by the variable resistor is adjusted as the frame moves between the first position and the second position. Embodiments of the present disclosure may include one or a combination of the following features:

-a controller communicatively coupled to the variable resistor, wherein the controller receives a signal from the variable resistor and determines a position of the frame between the first position and the second position;

-a guide feature disposed proximate to the at least one blade, wherein the guide feature is coupled to a support feature, and wherein the support feature is coupled to the second side of the frame;

-the at least one blade comprises a plurality of blades, wherein each blade comprises an indicator light that lights up when the plurality of blades are set to a predefined angle; and

-the variable resistor is a carbon printed resistor.

According to various examples, a register assembly includes a frame having a first side and a second side. The frame is operable between a first position and a second position. A vane is rotatably coupled to the third side of the frame and the fourth side of the frame. The blade includes a protrusion extending through the frame. A vane position indicator is coupled to the projection. The vane position indicator rotates within a rotational angle of the vane. A frame position indicator is coupled to the frame. The frame position indicator adjusts with the frame as the frame moves between the first position and the second position. Embodiments of the present disclosure may include one or a combination of the following features:

-an indicator light coupled to the blade, wherein the indicator light is illuminated when the blade is at a predefined angle;

-the blade position indicator extends beyond the edge of the blade, and wherein the length of the frame position indicator is greater than the length of the blade position indicator;

-a shaft extending from the second side of the frame, wherein the frame position indicator is coupled to the shaft;

-a wind tunnel, wherein the shaft extends through the wind tunnel, and wherein the frame position indicator is disposed on a first side of the wind tunnel and the second side of the frame is disposed on a second side of the wind tunnel; and

-a variable resistor operably coupled to the frame.

For the purposes of this disclosure, the term "coupled" (in all its forms: coupled, etc.) generally means that two components (electrical or mechanical) are connected directly or indirectly to each other. Such connections may be stationary in nature or movable in nature. Such joining may be achieved with the two components (electrical or mechanical), and any additional intermediate members may be integrally formed as a single unitary body with one another or with the two components. Unless otherwise specified, such connections may be permanent in nature, or may be removable or releasable in nature.

The various illustrative logical blocks, modules, controllers, and circuits described in connection with the embodiments disclosed herein may be implemented or performed with an Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC), a Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA), a general purpose processor, a Digital Signal Processor (DSP) or other logic device, discrete gate or transistor logic, discrete hardware components, or any combination thereof designed to perform the functions described herein. A general-purpose processor may be any conventional processor, controller, microcontroller, state machine, or the like. A processor may also be implemented as a combination of computing devices, e.g., a combination of a DSP and a microprocessor, a plurality of microprocessors, one or more microprocessors in conjunction with a DSP core, or any other such configuration.

It is also important to note that the construction and arrangement of the elements of the present invention as shown in the illustrative examples is illustrative only. Although only a few examples of the present innovations have been described in detail in this disclosure, those skilled in the art who review this disclosure will readily appreciate that many modifications are possible (e.g., variations in sizes, dimensions, structures, shapes and proportions of the various elements, values of parameters, mounting arrangements, use of materials, colors, orientations, etc.) without materially departing from the novel teachings and advantages of the subject matter recited. For example, elements shown as integrally formed may be constructed of multiple parts or elements shown as multiple parts may be integrally formed, the operation of the interfaces may be reversed or otherwise varied, the length or width of the structures and/or members or other elements of the connector or system may be varied, the nature or number of adjustment positions provided between the elements may be varied. It should be noted that the elements and/or assemblies of the system may be constructed of any of a variety of materials that provide sufficient strength or durability in any of a variety of colors, textures, and combinations. Accordingly, all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of this innovation. Other substitutions, modifications, changes and omissions may be made in the design, operating conditions and arrangement of the desired and other exemplary embodiments without departing from the spirit of the present innovations.

Modifications of the disclosure will occur to those skilled in the art and to those who make or use the disclosure. Therefore, it is to be understood that the embodiments shown in the drawings and described above are merely for illustrative purposes and are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure, which is defined by the appended claims as interpreted according to the principles of patent law, including the doctrine of equivalents.

It is to be understood that variations and modifications can be made on the aforementioned structure without departing from the concepts of the present disclosure, and further it is to be understood that such concepts are intended to be covered by the following claims unless these claims by their language expressly state otherwise.

According to the utility model discloses, a vehicle ventilation system is provided, vehicle ventilation system has: an air duct defining an outlet that directs air into the interior compartment; a register assembly operably coupled to the air chute proximate the outlet, wherein the register assembly comprises: a frame; a blade rotatably coupled to the frame; and a variable resistor operably coupled to the frame; a user interface having a display; and a controller communicatively coupled to the user interface and the variable resistor, wherein the controller receives a signal from the variable resistor and determines a position of the register assembly in response to the signal.

According to one embodiment, the present invention is also characterized in that: a power source operably coupled to the variable resistor, wherein the power source provides a predefined current to the variable resistor.

According to one embodiment, the controller communicates the position of the register assembly to the user interface, and wherein the user interface displays the position.

According to one embodiment, the frame includes a shaft extending through the air duct, and wherein the shaft is coupled to the movable terminal of the variable resistor.

According to one embodiment, the present invention is further characterized by: an indicator light coupled to the blade, wherein the controller activates the indicator light when the blade is at a predefined angle.

According to one embodiment, the present invention is also characterized in that: an indicator light integrally formed with the blade, wherein the indicator light is visible when the blade is set at a first angle and is obscured when the blade is set at a second angle.

According to one embodiment, the variable resistor is disposed on a first side of the wind tunnel and the vanes are disposed on a second side of the wind tunnel.

According to one embodiment, at least a portion of the variable resistor is coupled to a stage B surface of the wind tunnel.

According to one embodiment, the variable resistor is a carbon printed resistor.

According to the utility model discloses, a register assembly is provided, register assembly has: a frame having a first side and a second side opposite the first side, wherein the frame is operable between a first position and a second position; at least one vane extending between a third side of the frame and a fourth side of the frame, wherein the third side and the fourth side extend between the first side and the second side; a shaft coupled to the second side of the frame, wherein the shaft extends away from the first side of the frame; and a variable resistor operably coupled to the frame, wherein a movable terminal of the variable resistor is coupled to the shaft, and wherein a current measured by the variable resistor is adjusted as the frame moves between the first position and the second position.

According to one embodiment, the present invention is also characterized in that: a controller communicatively coupled to the variable resistor, wherein the controller receives a signal from the variable resistor and determines a position of the frame between the first position and the second position.

According to one embodiment, the present invention is further characterized by: a guide feature disposed proximate to the at least one blade, wherein the guide feature is coupled to a support feature, and wherein the support feature is coupled to the second side of the frame.

According to one embodiment, the at least one blade comprises a plurality of blades, and wherein each blade comprises an indicator light that lights up when the plurality of blades are set to a predefined angle.

According to one embodiment, the variable resistor is a carbon printed resistor.

According to the utility model discloses, a register assembly is provided, register assembly has: a frame having a first side and a second side, wherein the frame is operable between a first position and a second position; a blade rotatably coupled to a third side of the frame and a fourth side of the frame, wherein the blade includes a protrusion extending through the frame; a blade position indicator coupled to the protrusion, wherein the blade position indicator rotates within a rotational angle of the blade; and a frame position indicator coupled to the frame, wherein the frame position indicator adjusts with the frame as the frame moves between the first position and the second position.

According to one embodiment, the present invention is further characterized by: an indicator light coupled to the blade, wherein the indicator light is illuminated when the blade is at a predefined angle.

According to one embodiment, the vane position indicator extends beyond an edge of the vane, and wherein a length of the frame position indicator is greater than a length of the vane position indicator.

According to one embodiment, the present invention is further characterized by: a shaft extending from the second side of the frame, wherein the frame position indicator is coupled to the shaft.

According to one embodiment, the present invention is also characterized in that: a wind tunnel, wherein the shaft extends through the wind tunnel, and wherein the frame position indicator is disposed on a first side of the wind tunnel and the second side of the frame is disposed on a second side of the wind tunnel.

According to one embodiment, the present invention is further characterized by: a variable resistor operably coupled to the frame.

Claims (15)

1. A register assembly, comprising:

a frame having a first side and a second side opposite the first side, wherein the frame is operable between a first position and a second position;

at least one vane extending between a third side of the frame and a fourth side of the frame, wherein the third side and the fourth side extend between the first side and the second side;

a shaft coupled to the second side of the frame, wherein the shaft extends away from the first side of the frame; and

a variable resistor operably coupled to the frame, wherein a movable terminal of the variable resistor is coupled to the shaft, and wherein a current measured by the variable resistor is adjusted as the frame moves between the first position and the second position.

2. The register assembly of claim 1, further comprising:

a controller communicatively coupled to the variable resistor, wherein the controller receives a signal from the variable resistor and determines a position of the frame between the first position and the second position.

3. The register assembly of claim 2, further comprising:

a user interface having a display, wherein the controller is communicatively coupled to the user interface.

4. The register assembly of claim 3, wherein the controller communicates the position of the register assembly to the user interface, and wherein the user interface displays the position.

5. The register assembly of claim 1, further comprising:

a guide feature disposed proximate to the at least one blade, wherein the guide feature is coupled to a support feature, and wherein the support feature is coupled to the second side of the frame.

6. The register assembly of claim 1, further comprising:

an indicator light integrally formed with the at least one blade, wherein the indicator light is visible when the at least one blade is set at a first angle and is obscured when the at least one blade is set at a second angle.

7. The register assembly of claim 1, further comprising:

an air duct defining an outlet that directs air into the interior compartment, wherein the frame is operably coupled to the air duct.

8. The register assembly of claim 7, wherein at least a portion of the variable resistor is coupled to a class B surface of the air chute.

9. The register assembly of claim 7, wherein the shaft extends through the air chute, wherein the variable resistor is disposed on a first side of the air chute and the at least one vane is disposed on a second side of the air chute.

10. The register assembly of claim 1, wherein the at least one blade comprises a plurality of blades, and wherein each blade comprises an indicator light that lights up when the plurality of blades are set to a predefined angle.

11. The register assembly of claim 1, further comprising:

a power source operably coupled to the variable resistor, wherein the power source provides a predefined current to the variable resistor.

12. The register assembly of claim 1, further comprising:

a blade position indicator coupled to a protrusion, wherein the at least one blade position indicator rotates within a rotational angle of the at least one blade.

13. The register assembly of claim 12, further comprising:

a frame position indicator coupled to the frame, wherein the frame position indicator adjusts with the frame as the frame moves between the first position and the second position.

14. The register assembly of claim 13, wherein the at least one blade position indicator extends beyond an edge of the at least one blade, and wherein a length of the frame position indicator is greater than a length of the at least one blade position indicator.

15. The register assembly of any one of claims 1-14, wherein the variable resistor is a carbon printed resistor.

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