GB2593152A

GB2593152A - A heating, ventilation and/or air conditioning system for a vehicle

Info

Publication number: GB2593152A
Application number: GB2003273.6A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Nicholas Murray James; Moffatt Ben; Barker Will
Original assignee: Ford Global Technologies LLC
Current assignee: Ford Global Technologies LLC
Priority date: 2020-03-06
Filing date: 2020-03-06
Publication date: 2021-09-22
Anticipated expiration: 2040-03-06
Also published as: CN113352841A; DE102021105076A1; GB2593152B; GB202003273D0

Abstract

A heating, ventilation and/or air-conditioning (HVAC) system for a vehicle, especially a commercial vehicle, comprises a HVAC vent 210 and a sensor 250 operatively coupled to the HVAC vent. The sensor detects if an item of clothing 260 is present near the HVAC vent. If so, the HVAC system opens the HVAC vent and directs air 272 towards the clothing. The sensor may be a hook that moves when clothing is hung thereon under the weight of the clothing. The sensor may be a load sensor to detect a weight of the clothes, a proximity or position sensor, or an optical sensor. An air parameter sensor may be included to measure air temperature and humidity and a further sensor may detect a type of clothing. The HVAC system ideally includes a plurality of HVAC vents wherein one or more of the vents are selectively opened based on the location of the clothing. The HVAC system can be used by commercial vehicle drivers to warm or dry clothing more effectively than a conventional vehicle HVAC system.

Description

A HEATING, VENTILATION AND/OR AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEM FOR A

VEHICLE

Technical Field

The present disclosure relates to a HVAC system for a vehicle and is particularly, although not exclusively, concerned with a HVAC system for a vehicle configured to direct air towards an item of clothing.

Background

Vehicle users, especially commercial vehicle users, often use their vehicles as refuges during inclement weather conditions. It is common for such users to attempt to dry or warm items of clothing within their vehicles.

It is appreciated by the present inventors that typical heating, ventilation and/or air conditioning (HVAC) systems used in vehicles are geared more towards heating the air contained within the vehicle, rather than items of clothing.

Accordingly, improvements are desired in the art of vehicle HVAC systems.

Statements of Invention

According to an aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a heating, ventilation and/or air-conditioning (HVAC) system for a vehicle, the HVAC system comprising a HVAC vent and a sensor operatively coupled to the HVAC vent, wherein the sensor is configured to determine if an item of clothing is present proximate to the HVAC vent, the HVAC system being configured such that if it is determined that an item of clothing is present proximate to the HVAC vent, the HVAC vent is opened and directs air towards the item of clothing.

The HVAC system may comprise at least one HVAC vent (e.g. a plurality).

The sensor may comprise a mechanical sensor. The sensor may be configured to move due to the weight of the item of clothing. The sensor may comprise a hook. The hook may move when the item of clothing is hung from the hook. The sensor may comprise a drying rack.

The sensor may be mechanically coupled to the HVAC vent with a mechanical coupling. The mechanical coupling may open the HVAC vent when the mechanical sensor moves due to the weight of the item of clothing. The HVAC system may comprise a plurality of sensors.

The HVAC vent may comprise a plurality of louvres mechanically linked to one another. For example, the mechanical coupling between the sensor and the HVAC vent may move the louvres.

The sensor may comprise a load sensor. The load sensor may be configured to sense a force applied by the item of clothing. The load sensor may be provided on the hook for receiving the item of clothing.

The sensor may comprise a proximity and/or or position sensor that senses the presence of the item of clothing. The proximity and/or position sensor may be positioned so as to detect the presence of the item of clothing in a region in which the item of clothing is expected to be placed.

The proximity and/or position sensor may be positioned on or below a hook for receiving the item of clothing.

The sensor may be operatively coupled to a controller. The controller may be configured to open the HVAC vent when the item of clothing is sensed by the sensor. The operation of the HVAC system may be controlled by the controller.

The HVAC system may comprise a plurality of HVAC vents. The HVAC system may be configured to select one or more of the plurality of HVAC vents to open depending on the position of the item of clothing. The HVAC system may open only the HVAC vents to which the item of clothing is present proximately. The HVAC system may close HVAC vents (e.g. all other HVAC vents) that are not proximate to the item of clothing. Each HVAC vent may be capable of directing air towards the (or each or all of the) sensor(s).

The HVAC system may further comprise an air parameter sensor. The air parameter sensor may be disposed in or proximately to the HVAC vent, for example so as to determine an air parameter of the air emerging from the HVAC vent. The HVAC system may be configured to activate the HVAC vent depending on an air parameter sensed by the air parameter sensor, for example an air parameter of the ambient air within a vehicle.

The air parameter sensor may sense at least one of air temperature and air moisture level.

The air parameter sensor may be positioned proximate to an expected location of the item of clothing. The sensor may comprise an optical sensor.

The sensor or a further sensor may be configured to determine a parameter of the item of clothing (e.g. a type of the item of clothing).

The HVAC system may be configured to control whether the HVAC vent is opened depending on the type of the item of clothing identified. The HVAC system may be configured to control whether the HVAC vent is opened depending on a parameter of the air from the HVAC vent. The HVAC system may vary the type (e.g. nature and/or characteristics) of the air directed towards the item of clothing, depending on the parameter of the item of clothing.

The sensor may be disposed proximately to the HVAC vent. The sensor may determine whether an item of clothing is present proximate the sensor, such that the sensor may determine whether an item of clothing is present proximate the vent by virtue of being proximate to the sensor.

The HVAC vent and sensor may be disposed in (e.g. only in) the passenger cabin of a vehicle. The HVAC vent and sensor may be disposed in (e.g. only in) the cargo area or loadspace of a vehicle. The HVAC vent and sensor may be disposed across the passenger cabin and loadspace of a vehicle.

The HVAC system may comprise a user override switch. The user override switch may control the operation of the HVAC system. For example, the user override switch may override the sensor so as to actuate the HVAC vent between the first operating condition and the second operating condition.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure there is provided a vehicle comprising the HVAC system of the present disclosure.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a method for a heating, ventilation and/or air-conditioning (HVAC) system of a vehicle, the HVAC system comprising a HVAC vent and a sensing portion operationally coupled to the vent, wherein the method comprises determining if an item of clothing is present proximate to the HVAC vent, opening the HVAC vent and directing air towards the item of clothing if it is determined that an item of clothing is present proximate to the HVAC vent.

To avoid unnecessary duplication of effort and repetition of text in the specification, certain features are described in relation to only one or several aspects or embodiments of the invention. However, it is to be understood that, where it is technically possible, features described in relation to any aspect or embodiment of the invention may also be used with any other aspect or embodiment of the invention.

Brief Description of Drawings

For a better understanding of the present invention, and to show more clearly how it may be carried into effect, reference will now be made, by way of example, to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure la is a side view of a HVAC system in a first operating state; Figure lb is a front view of a HVAC system in a first operating state; Figure lc is a side view of a HVAC system in a second operating state; Figure ld is a front view of a HVAC system in a second operating state; Figure 2 is a schematic representation of a HVAC system in a second operating state; Figure 3 shows a HVAC system disposed in a front cabin of a vehicle; Figure 4 shows a HVAC system disposed in a loadspace of a vehicle; Figure 5 is a schematic representation of a HVAC system comprising a controller and Figure 6 is a flow chart of an example method of the present invention.

Detailed Description

Whilst the present disclosure refers to an item of clothing (e.g. coat, shoes, sock, trousers etc.), it should be understood that other items which may not typically be worn about a person may also be included within the scope of the present disclosure (e.g. tools, dust sheets, tarpaulin, equipment, components of the vehicle interior etc.). Similarly, although the present invention is described in the context of a vehicle (e.g. car, van, boat, aircraft, spacecraft), it should be understood that the present invention may equally be suitable for other applications (e.g. buildings, drying rooms etc.).

With reference to Figures la, lb, 1c and ld, collectively Figure 1, a HVAC system 100 of the present disclosure is described. Figures la and lb are side and front views respectively of an HVAC system 100 of the present disclosure in a first operating state. Figures lc and ld are side and front views respectively of an HVAC system 100 of the present disclosure in a second operating state.

The HVAC system 100 of the present disclosure may be disposed (e.g. installed) in or on a planar surface (not shown), such as an interior or exterior wall, floor or ceiling (e.g. of a vehicle). Figure 1 shows the HVAC system 100 in such a planar configuration. Figures la and lc are side views of the HVAC system 1 from parallel to the plane of such a surface, whilst Figures lb and ld are front views from perpendicular to such a surface. It will be understood by the skilled person that alternative configurations are also possible, for example non-planar configurations, e.g. that follow the contours of a surrounding surface.

The HVAC system 100 comprises a HVAC vent 110 and a sensor 150. The sensor 150 is operatively coupled to the HVAC vent 110, for example by means of a mechanical linkage 130. Additionally or alternatively, sensor 150 may be operatively coupled to the HVAC vent 100 by means of a non-mechanical linkage (not shown), such as by electrical communication.

The HVAC system 100 may be actuatable (e.g. continuously or discretely) between a first operating state and a second operating state. The first operating state may be an inactive condition. The second operating state may be an active condition. In the first operating state, for example as shown in Figures 1a and lb, substantially no air may be permitted to flow from the HVAC system 100. In the second operating state, for example as shown in Figures lc and id, air may be permitted to flow from the HVAC system 100.

The sensor 150 may comprise a mechanical sensor, such as a hook 152. The hook 152 may comprise a first end, a second end, and a pivot 154. The pivot 154 may be disposed part way along the hook 152 between the first and second ends, for example half way along the hook 152, such that both ends of the hook may be able to rotate about pivot 154. The hook 152 may be rotatable about the pivot 154 between a first position shown in Figures la and lb, in which it may be substantially parallel with the vehicle surface to which it may be attached, and a second position shown in Figures lc and id, in which the hook 152 may be substantially perpendicular to the surface. In the second position, the hook 152, specifically the second end, may be capable of holding (e.g. bearing the weight of and/or physically retaining) at least one item of clothing (not shown in Figure 1), for example by allowing the item of clothing to hang vertically therefrom. The first operating state of the HVAC system 100 may comprise the first position of the hook 152. The second operating state of the HVAC system 100 may comprise the second position of the hook 152.

The hook 152 may additionally comprise an attachment point 156 disposed at the first end of the hook 152. A coupling member 130 may be configured to attach to the hook 152 by means of the attachment point 156. Coupling member 130 may be rigid and/or elongate, such as a rod. Coupling member 130 may form a mechanical linkage with at least one other component (e.g. of the HVAC system 100).

In an installed configuration, the pivot 154 may be attached to (e.g. disposed within and/or in the plane of) the surface within which the HVAC system 100 may be installed. In the first position, the hook 152, pivot 154 and attachment point 156 may not protrude from the vehicle surface. In the first position, the hook 152 may be parallel and/or flush and/or contiguous with the surface within which the HVAC system may be installed. In the second position, the hook 152 may protrude from (e.g. be substantially perpendicular to) the surface within which the HVAC system may be installed.

Upon rotation from the first position (e.g. in a clockwise direction with respect to Figure 1), the positioning of the pivot 154 part way along the hook 152 may allow the second end of the hook 152 to protrude (e.g. by rotating clockwise) from the vehicle surface, and the first end of the hook 152 to recede (e.g. by rotating clockwise) into the vehicle surface.

As shown in Figure 1c, the hook 100 may additionally comprise a biasing element 158, for example a spring. Biasing element 158 may be attached at one end to the attachment point 156 and at another end to the surface within which the HVAC system is disposed. Additionally or alternatively, biasing element 158 may comprise a mass. Biasing element 158 may be able to provide a restorative force to the hook 152 (e.g. in an anti-clockwise direction with respect to Figure 1) so as to restore the hook 152 from the second position to the first position. The biasing element 158 may be chosen such that the weight of an item of clothing hung from the hook 152 is greater than the restorative force provided by the biasing element 158. Additionally or alternatively, the biasing element 158 may be able to provide a restorative force that varies with the nature of the item of clothing. Additionally or alternatively further still, the hook 152 may be able to determine when no item of clothing is present on the hook such that the restorative force may be provided only when no item of clothing is present.

The sensor 150 is configured to determine if an item of clothing is present proximate to the HVAC vent 110. In particular, the sensor 150 may be configured to determine whether an item of clothing is located sufficiently near to the HVAC vent 110 that the HVAC vent is capable of permitting (e.g. producing and/or directing) a flow of air that impinges upon the item of clothing (e.g. in significant quantities and/or whilst maintaining the desired characteristics of the air such as temperature, humidity, velocity, flow rate etc.).

The sensor 150 may be configured to determine whether an item of clothing has been hung on hook 152. The sensor 150 may be disposed proximately to vent 110, such that an item of clothing will necessarily be proximate to the vent 110 if it is proximate to the sensor 150. Additionally or alternatively, sensor 150 may be spaced apart from the vent 110, but sensor 150 may be capable of detecting the presence of an item of clothing proximately to the vent 110.

The HVAC vent 110 may comprise a plurality of louvres 112 which may be spaced apart so as to define a plurality of openings 114 therebetween. Alternatively, in an example not shown, HVAC vent 110 may comprise a single louvre so as to define at least one opening between the louvre and the perimeter of the air passageway (not shown) to which the vent is attached. The louvres 112 may be aligned with and disposed within the plane of the vehicle surface. The louvres 112 may be capable of restricting and/or directing the flow of air from the HVAC vent 110. Each louvre 112 may comprise a pivot 116 about which the louvres 112 may rotate. Each pivot 116 may be provided part way (e.g. half way) along a width of each louvre 112, such that (with respect to Figures la and 1c) both edges of each louvre 112 may be able to rotate (e.g. displace). Alternatively, each pivot 116 may be provided at an edge of each louvre 112, such that only one edge of each louvre 112 may rotate (e.g. displace). Each louvre 112 may be rotatable between a first (e.g. inactive) position, shown in Figures la and lb, and a second (e.g. active) position shown in Figures lc and 1 d. The first operating state of the HVAC system 100 may comprise the first position of the louvres 112.

The second operating state of the HVAC system 100 may comprise the second position of the louvres 112.

In the first position shown in Figures la and lb, the louvres 112 may be maximally rotated such that the louvres 112 may be substantially parallel with the plane of the vehicle surface. In the first positon, each louvre 112 may be in contact with louvres 112 on either side such that adjacent louvres 112 may form a substantially airtight seal. In this way, the flow of air through vent 110 may be restricted (e.g. prevented or reduced).

In the second (e.g. active) position shown in Figures lc and id, an opening 114 may be formed between each pair of adjacent louvres 112, such that the vent 110 comprises a plurality of openings 114 defined between the plurality of louvres 112. The louvres 112 may be capable of directing the flow of air emanating from vent 110. For example, when in the second position, the louvres 112 may be parallel to one another such that air passing through openings 114 may be guided by the angle of the louvres so as to be directed according to the angle of the louvres 112. In this manner, the louvres 112 may be able to restrict and/or direct air passing through vent 110 depending on their angle of rotation.

The vent 110, including louvres 112, may be spaced apart from the sensor 150 such that air emerging from the vent 110 may flow toward (e.g. impinge upon) the sensor 150 and/or its vicinity.

Each louvre 112 may comprise an attachment point 118. Attachment point 118 may be provided at an end of or part way along each louvre 112. Attachment point 118 may be provided at or towards an edge of each louvre 112 which may be on an internal side of the vent 110.

Coupling member 130 may be pivotably attached to attachment point 118 of each louvre 112. Motion of the coupling member 130 in a vertical direction may, by virtue of the pivot 116, cause each louvre 112 to rotate so as to vary the angle of each louvre 112. Member may thereby rotate the louvres 112 between the first position and the second position when the hook 152 moves from the first position to the second position. Member 130 may be a rigid, elongate rod, such that it may be attached to each of the plurality of louvres 112, in particular the attachment points 118, in a straight line. Coupling member 130 may therefore form a mechanical linkage between the sensor 150 and louvres 112 of the vent 110. In this way, the hook 152 of sensor 150 may be operatively coupled to the louvres 112 of the HVAC vent 110.

Coupling member 130 may form a mechanical linkage between sensor 150 and all of the louvres 112. The louvres 112 may be rigidly connected to one another, such that the louvres 112 may all move in coordination so as to maintain parallelism in any operating condition or position.

In an embodiment not shown, sensor 150 may be operatively coupled to louvres 112 by means of a plurality of members 130 (e.g. one member 130 per louvre 112 or one member 130 for a group of louvres 112). In particular, a first member may couple the louvres 112 to one another and a second member may couple the sensor to the first member or one of the louvres 112.

The sensor 150 and the vent 110 may be aligned (e.g. linearly and/or vertically) so as to be disposed within the same vehicle surface. The sensor 150 and/or vent 110 may be recessed within the vehicle surface, so as not to protrude therefrom in the first and/or second operating conditions. Alternatively, the louvres 112 of the vent may protrude in the second operating condition.

In use, an item of clothing may be placed on the distal end of the hook 152. The weight of the item of clothing may move the hook 152 from the first position to the second position. As the hook 152 rotates (e.g. clockwise with respect to Figures la and 1c) about the pivot 154, attachment point 156 may pull the member 130 towards the sensor 150 (e.g. in an upward and/or vertical direction). Motion of the member 130 towards the sensor 150 may cause the louvres 112 to rotate (e.g. clockwise) by means of attachment points 118 about their pivots 116. Actuation of the hook 152 from the first position to the second position may thereby actuate the louvres 112 from the first (inactive) position to the second (active) position. As such, actuation of the hook 152 from the first position to the second position may cause the louvres 112 to move (e.g. rotate) so as to allow air to pass through openings 114, for example into the vehicle interior. The weight of the item of clothing may maintain the hook 152 in the second position such that air may continue to pass through openings 114 of vent 110.

If it is determined that an item of clothing is present proximate to the HVAC vent 100, the HVAC vent 110 is opened and directs air towards the item of clothing. The HVAC system 100 may be configured such that upon hanging of an item of clothing on the hook 152, the louvres 112 may open in an orientation that directs air emerging from the vent 110 in the direction of the item of clothing. In particular, air may be directed by the louvres 112 to flow in a direction of the item of clothing which has been hung on the hook 152. The vent 110 may comprise additional means for directing the flow of air emanating therefrom in the direction of (i.e. towards) the item of clothing being hung on the hook 152. In one example, the louvres 112 may control the flow of air passing through the openings 114. The vent 110 may comprise further louvres (not shown) in a vertical and/or horizontal plane which may be configured to direct the flow of air.

The weight of the item of clothing may be greater than the restorative force of the biasing element 158 so as to maintain the hook 152 in the second position, and thus maintain the flow of air through the vent 110. The biasing element 158 may be configured such that the hook 152 remains in the second position for an expected minimum weight of clothing and that the hook 152 returns to the first position when the clothing is removed.

Upon removal of the item of clothing from the hook 152 or removal of the item of clothing from a location proximate to the at least one HVAC vent, the HVAC system may restrict the flow of air through the louvres 112. For example the biasing element 158 may return the hook 152 to the first position, thereby returning the louvres 112 to the first positon. No or limited air may then be permitted to flow through vent 110.

The system 100 may comprise additional or alternative sensors to the hook 152. The system 100 may comprise a proximity sensor and/or a position sensor. Such sensors may be configured to determine the presence and/or location of the item of clothing in relation to the at least one HVAC vent 110. The sensor may comprise a load sensor. The sensor may be configured to determine the weight of an item of clothing. For example, the load sensor may be disposed within the hook 152. The weight of an item of clothing may be compared with data relating to known items of clothing to determine the likely quantity of moisture being held by the item of clothing. The sensor 150 may comprise a temperature sensor configured to determine a temperature of the item of clothing. The system may comprise a moisture sensor configured to determine the moisture level of the item of clothing. The outputs of these sensors may be compared with known values to determine the condition of the item of clothing being either hung on the hook 100 or located proximately to the at least one HVAC vent 110.

The sensor may be configured to determine at least one parameter (e.g. property and/or characteristic) relating to the item of clothing. The sensor may determine the type of item of clothing present proximate to the HVAC vent. The sensor may determine a type of material from which the item of clothing is constructed. The sensor may determine at least one dimension of the item of clothing.

With reference to Figure 2, a HVAC system 200 of the present invention is described. The HVAC system 200 comprises a sensor 250 and a vent 210. The sensor 250 may comprise a mechanical sensor. Additionally or alternatively, the sensor 250 may comprise an electrical sensor, such as a proximity and/or position sensor. The sensor 250 may comprise an optical sensor. The sensor 250 is configured to determine whether an item of clothing is present proximate to the HVAC vent 210.

The HVAC vent 210 may comprise a plurality of components 212 which define therebetween a plurality of openings 214. The components 212 may comprise louvres as in the example of Figure 1. Additionally or alternatively, the components 212 may comprise any component that is capable of restricting and/or directing the flow of air through the HVAC vent 210.

Air 272 may be permitted to flow through HVAC vent 210 according to the position and operating condition of the HVAC system 200 and thus vent 210. The sensor 250 is operatively coupled to the HVAC vent 210, for example by a mechanical linkage (not shown) or alternatively by electronic communication (not shown). The components 212 may be controlled individually and/or collectively. Additionally or alternatively, the louvres 212 may be controlled in groups, each of which may comprise a subset of the total number of components 212, for example in groups of louvres 212 that are adjacent to one another. The louvres 212 may be opened in a different pattern (e.g. arrangement and/or configuration) according to whether an item of clothing has been identified or the type of clothing identified.

The HVAC system 200 may comprise an air dud 270 which may transport conditioned air from an evaporator, heat exchanger, air compressor and/or de-humidifier of the HVAC system 200. The air duct 270 may supply the vent 210 with conditioned air.

As shown in Figure 2, the sensor 250, optionally comprising a hook (not shown), may be disposed on the wall or ceiling of the vehicle. The HVAC vent 200 may be disposed beneath the sensor 250, e.g. in the floor of the vehicle. The HVAC system may provide air from beneath the sensor 250 and/or an item of clothing 260.

An item of clothing 260 is disposed (e.g. hung) proximately to the sensor 250. For example, the item of clothing 260 may be hung on a component (e.g. a hook) that does not form part of the sensor 250. Alternatively, the item of clothing 260 may be disposed on a part of the sensor 250, for example a hook (not shown). The sensor 250 determines that there is an item of clothing present proximate to the HVAC vent 210. The sensor 250 may be disposed proximately to the HVAC vent such that if the sensor 250 determines that there is an item of clothing present proximately to the sensor 250, then it may be determined that the item of clothing is present proximately to the HVAC vent 210.

The HVAC vent 210 may be opened (e.g. partially or fully). The HVAC vent 210 directs air towards the item of clothing 260. The HVAC system 200 may be configured to open the louvres 212 in line with to the item of clothing 260, such that the openings 214 formed between opened louvres guide the air 272 flowing therethrough in the direction of the item of clothing. Louvres 212 laterally spaced apart from the item of clothing (e.g. not capable of producing an air flow that impinges upon the item of clothing) may remain in a closed position, such that the air flow through the openings 214 proximate to the item of clothing receive a greater degree of air flow. In this manner, the HVAC system 200 may selectively actuate (e.g. a proportion of) the louvres 212 of the vent 210 so as to produce an air flow 272 that impinges upon the item of clothing. Additionally or alternatively, the HVAC system may selectively open a portion of the vent 210 that is not immediately beneath the item of clothing 260. The flow of air 272 towards the item of clothing 260 may therefore pass across the item of clothing 260 rather than at the item of clothing 260. This may accelerate drying.

The HVAC system 200, for example the at least one sensor thereof, may determine parameters relating to the item of clothing. The HVAC system 200 may determine the type of the item of clothing and/or the dimensions of the item of clothing and/or the moisture level of the item of clothing and/or the temperature of the item of clothing. The HVAC system may determine which of the components 212 of the vent 210 that are nearest to the item of clothing 260. Additionally or alternatively, the HVAC system may determine, in relation to the size and spacing of the components 212, and the openings 214 defined therebetween, the number of components 212 that corresponds to the dimensions of the item of clothing 260. For example, the HVAC system may determine the size of the item of clothing 260 and the number of louvres 212 that may need to be opened in order to produce a flow of air 272 that impinges upon the whole item of clothing 260.

Figure 3 shows a HVAC system 300 disposed in the front cabin of a vehicle, for example the passenger compartment of a van or truck. The HVAC system 300 comprises a sensor 350a and a vent 310a. The HVAC system may additionally comprise a sensor 350b and a vent 310b. Sensor 350a is operatively coupled to one (e.g. at least one) of vent 310a and vent 310b. Sensor 350b may be operatively coupled to one (e.g. at least one) of vent 310a and vent 310b. The sensor 350a may be proximate to vent 310a. The sensor 350b may be proximate to vent 310b.

An item of clothing 360, such as a coat, may be hung proximately to the vent 350b, for example on or near the sensor 350b. Sensor 350b may determine that an item of clothing 360 is present proximately to sensor 350b, for example by means of the item of clothing 360 actuating the sensor 350b, e.g. from a first position to a second position.

The sensor 350b determines that an item of clothing is present proximately to vent 310b.

The HVAC vent 310b is opened and directs air towards the item of clothing 360. The operative coupling between the sensor 350b and the vent 310b may actuate the louvres (not shown) of the vent 310b to the second position such that air may be permitted to flow from the vent 310b in the direction of the item of clothing 360. HVAC system 300 may determine that the item of clothing 360 is sufficiently proximate vent 310a that vent 310a is capable of producing a flow of air that impinges upon item of clothing 360. HVAC system 300 may open vent 310a so as to direct air towards the item of clothing 360.

Additional sensors (not shown) may determine at least one parameter of the item of clothing 360, such as moisture level and/or temperature. Once determined, these parameters may be compared with threshold values (e.g. user-selectable threshold values), such that if it is determined that the item of clothing 360 is outside these values (e.g. more damp than desired), the characteristics of the air flowing through the vent may be controlled to return the clothing parameters to within desired levels. For example, a damp item of clothing may be placed on the hook. The HVAC system 300 may determine that the item of clothing 360 has moisture levels higher than desired, such that hot air may be directed towards the item of clothing 360. Air may continue to be directed towards the item of clothing 360 until it is determined that moisture levels have returned to within threshold values. The flow of air towards the item of clothing 360 may then be stopped, for example by actuating the vent 310b from the second position to the first position.

The sensor 350a upon which no item of clothing has been hung may not be actuated (e.g. the vent 310a purposefully closed). Alternatively, additional sensor 350a may determine the presence of the item of clothing 360 proximally to the sensor 350b and actuate the vent to permit the flow of air in the direction of the item of clothing 360. Sensor 350a may aid sensor 350b in determining the at least one parameter of the item of clothing 360.

Figure 4 shows a HVAC system 400 of the present disclosure disposed in a loadspace of a vehicle (e.g. a van). HVAC system 400 comprises a sensor 450 and vent 410. The sensor 450 is operatively coupled to the vent 410, and configured to determine if an item of clothing 460 is present proximate to the HVAC vent 410. If the sensor 450 determines that an item of clothing 460 is present proximate to the vent 410, the HVAC system is configured to open the vent 410 and direct air towards the item of clothing 460.

The sensor 450 and vent 410 may be disposed in an interior wall 480 of the vehicle such that, in either the first or second positions, the sensor 450 and vent 410 may not obstruct (e.g. narrow) the loadspace. Additionally or alternatively, a vent 410 may be provided elsewhere within the vehicle loadspace, such as in the ceiling, the floor, or on an interior wall of the vehicle that is not immediately adjacent to the item of clothing. The sensor 450, which may comprise a hook, may be disposed on a pillar and/or bulkhead of a vehicle.

An item of clothing 460 may be placed (e.g. hung) proximately to the vent 410 (e.g. on and/or near the sensor 450). The vehicle may comprise a plurality of sensors 450, each having at least one associated vent 410. Each sensor 410 may be operatively coupled to at least one vent 410 (e.g. a plurality of vents 410). Furthermore, each sensor 410 may be operatively coupled to a plurality (e.g. all) of the HVAC vents 410, such that a plurality of HVAC vents 410 may direct air towards the item of clothing 460. A plurality of items of clothing 460 may be conditioned (e.g. dried and/or warmed) independently of one another (e.g. using separate vents 410).

Figure 5 is a schematic representation of a HVAC system 500 comprising a controller 570, a HVAC vent 510 and a sensor 550. The sensor 550 may be operatively coupled to the controller 570. The controller 570 may be operatively coupled to the HVAC vent 510. The controller 570 may be configured to open the HVAC vent 510 when it is determined that an item of clothing is present proximate to the HVAC vent 510.

As shown in Figure 5, the HVAC system 500 may comprise at least one other sensor 551, 552. The HVAC system 500 may comprise a plurality of HVAC vents 510. The controller 570 may be configured to determine which of the HVAC vents 510 to open depending on the position of the item of clothing. The controller 570 may be configured to determine which HVAC vent 510 to open if it is determined that multiple items of clothing are present proximate to the plurality of HVAC vents 510 (e.g. whether to open one, all or a number therebetween). The controller 570 may be configured to determine which item of clothing to direct air towards if it is determined that multiple items of clothing are present proximate to the HVAC vent(s) 510.

Figure 6 shows a flowchart of a method for a heating, ventilation and/or air-conditioning system of a vehicle according to the present disclosure. The HVAC system comprises a HVAC vent and a sensor operatively coupled to the HVAC vent, wherein the method comprises determining 602 if an item of clothing is present proximate to the HVAC vent. If it is determined that an item of clothing is present proximate to the HVAC vent, the method comprises opening 604 the HVAC vent and directing air towards the item of clothing.

The method may comprise a number of additional steps 606. The method may comprise determining a parameter of the item of clothing, for example using a sensor. The method may comprise comparing the parameter of the item of clothing with a threshold value. The method may comprise closing the HVAC vent if it is determined that the parameter of the item of clothing is within a threshold value.

In addition to the foregoing disclosure, it should be understood that an HVAC system configured to direct air towards an item of clothing so as to have an effect on the item of clothing may differ from a HVAC system that is configured to provide air conditioning effects to the air within the space of a vehicle. For example, typical HVAC systems may benefit from a diffuse flow of air that may be able to distribute the air from a HVAC vent widely within a vehicle over a short period of time. To the contrary, the present HVAC system may require a more concentrated flow of air that is able to avoid divergence of the air flow as it travels to the item of clothing. Further, a HVAC system configured to condition the air within a vehicle may not be suitable for being directed towards an item of clothing, and/or vice versa. For example, it may be desirable to avoid subjecting certain clothing fabrics to the types of heat that may be produced by a typical HVAC system. Additionally or alternatively, it may not be desirable to release air at high temperature and/or low humidity into a passenger cabin in the same way a workman's boots may withstand prolonged hot and dry air for the purpose of drying. It should therefore be understood that mere repurposing of a pre-existing HVAC system may not be suitable for use in accordance with the present invention. The HVAC system may therefore comprise a dedicated HVAC air conditioning/heating unit or temperature controls.

It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that, although not explicitly referred to herein, the HVAC system of the present disclosure may comprise a heater and/or air-conditioning unit disposed upstream of the HVAC vent in order to heat and/or condition the air that is permitted to flow through the HVAC vent. An air duct may be provided between the HVAC vent and the heater and/or air conditioning unit in order to transmit the heated and/or conditioned air to the HVAC vent.

It will be further appreciated by those skilled in the art that although the invention has been described by way of example, with reference to one or more exemplary examples, it is not limited to the disclosed examples and that alternative examples could be constructed without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.

Claims

Claims 1. A heating, ventilation and/or air-conditioning (HVAC) system for a vehicle, the HVAC system comprising: a HVAC vent and a sensor operatively coupled to the HVAC vent, wherein the sensor is configured to determine if an item of clothing is present proximate to the HVAC vent, the HVAC system being configured such that if it is determined that an item of clothing is present proximate to the HVAC vent, the HVAC vent is opened and directs air towards the item of clothing.
2. The HVAC system of claim 1, wherein the sensor comprises a mechanical sensor that is configured to move due to the weight of the item of clothing.
3. The HVAC system of claim 2, wherein the sensor comprises a hook, wherein the hook moves when the item of clothing is hung from the hook.
4. The HVAC system of claim 2 or 3, wherein the sensor is mechanically coupled to the HVAC vent with a mechanical coupling that opens the HVAC vent when the mechanical sensor moves due to the weight of the item of clothing.
5. The HVAC system of claim 4, wherein the HVAC vent comprises a plurality of louvres mechanically linked to one another and the mechanical coupling between the sensor and the HVAC vent moves the louvres.
6. The HVAC system of any of the preceding claims, wherein the sensor comprises a load sensor that is configured to sense a force applied by the item of clothing.
7. The HVAC system of claim 6, wherein the load sensor is provided on a hook for receiving the item of clothing
8. The HVAC system of any of the preceding claims, wherein the sensor comprises a proximity or position sensor that senses the presence of the item of clothing, the proximity or position sensor being positioned so as to detect the presence of the item of clothing in a region in which the item of clothing is expected to be placed.
9. The HVAC system of claim 8, wherein the proximity or position sensor is positioned on or below a hook for receiving the item of clothing.
10. The HVAC system of any of claims 6 to 9, wherein the sensor is operatively coupled to a controller and the controller is configured to open the HVAC vent when the item of clothing is sensed by the sensor.
11. The HVAC system of any of the preceding claims, wherein the HVAC system comprises a plurality of HVAC vents and the HVAC system is configured to select one or more of the plurality of HVAC vents to open depending on the position of the item of clothing.
12. The HVAC system of any of the preceding claims, wherein the HVAC system further comprises an air parameter sensor and the HVAC system is configured to activate the HVAC vent depending on an air parameter sensed by the air parameter sensor.
13. The HVAC system of any of claim 12, wherein the air parameter sensor senses at least one of air temperature and air moisture level.
14. The HVAC system of any of claim 12 or 13, wherein the air parameter sensor is positioned proximate to an expected location of the item of clothing.
15. The HVAC system of any of the preceding claims, wherein the sensor or a further sensor is configured to determine a type of the item of clothing.
16. The HVAC system of claim 15, wherein the system is configured to control whether the HVAC vent is opened or a parameter of the air from the HVAC vent depending on the type of the item of clothing identified.
17. A vehicle comprising the HVAC system of any of the preceding claims.
18. A method for a heating, ventilation and/or air-conditioning (HVAC) system of a vehicle, the HVAC system comprising a HVAC vent; and a sensor operatively coupled to the vent, wherein the method comprises: determining if an item of clothing is present proximate to the HVAC vent; opening the HVAC vent and directing air towards the item of clothing if it is determined that an item of clothing is present proximate to the HVAC vent.