JP6361499B2 - Air conditioning system - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to an air-conditioning apparatus system that is mounted on a vehicle and includes at least one of a heating unit that warms an occupant using radiant heat and an air-conditioning unit that blows air.

  2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, a radiant heater that is mounted on a vehicle (such as a vehicle) that carries a person and warms an occupant using radiant heat has been used. As this type of radiation heater, the one described in Patent Document 1 has been proposed. This radiation heater is configured to detect the presence / absence of a seat (presence / absence of an occupant) by a seating sensor and adjust the output level of the heater based on the detection result of the seating sensor (that is, the presence / absence of an occupant). This radiant heater performs appropriate heating according to the number of passengers while adjusting energy by adjusting the output level of the heater in this way.

JP 2013-60200 A

  The position of the seated occupant is not always constant, and the position of each part (leg, arm, etc.) of the occupant's body differs depending on the occupant's posture. Depending on the posture, there is a difference in the distance between each part of the occupant's body (legs, arms, etc.) and the radiant heater. Therefore, in such a radiant heater, there is a problem that the occupant feels an excess or deficiency of the heating feeling because the body part of the occupant is too close or too far away from the radiant heater depending on the posture of the occupant. However, although the radiation type heater described in Patent Document 1 performs appropriate heating by adjusting the output level of the heater based on the presence or absence of an occupant, the above-described problem of excess or deficiency in the feeling of heating. It is not enough.

  The same problem occurs not only in the case of a radiant heater but also in the case of a blower type air conditioner. That is, even in the case of an air conditioner that uses blast to warm or cool an occupant, if the occupant's body part is too close or too far away from the blast outlet, the occupant has an excess or deficiency of the air conditioning feeling Feeling is a problem.

  From the above, in an air-conditioning system that is mounted on a vehicle and includes a radiant heater or a blower-type air conditioner, it is desired to cope with the problem of excess or deficiency of the air-conditioning feeling caused by the posture of the occupant.

  In view of the above-described points, an object of the present invention is to provide a configuration that can suppress an excess or deficiency of the feeling of cooling and heating caused by the posture of an occupant in an air conditioning system mounted on a vehicle.

Occupant order to achieve the above object, according to the invention of claim 1 to 12, the cold heating system, by utilizing radiant heat using the air-conditioning by the heating unit and blowing warm the part of occupant's body of a vehicle a first air conditioning apparatus having at least one of cooling the part of the body, or warming of the air conditioning unit (2a), the position detection unit detecting result changes according to a difference in position of the part of occupant's body ( 3, 4, 5, 6, 7) and a control unit (8) that controls the first air-conditioning apparatus according to the detection result of the position detection unit .

  For this reason, when the passenger's feet are close to the radiant heater unit, the output level of the radiant heater unit can be adjusted in accordance with the occupant's posture, such as lowering the output level of the radiant heater unit. Therefore, it can suppress that a passenger | crew feels the excess and deficiency of a heating feeling because a passenger | crew's step is too close to a radiation type heater part or too far by a passenger | crew's attitude | position.

  In addition, the code | symbol in the bracket | parenthesis of each means described in this column and the claim shows the correspondence with the specific means as described in embodiment mentioned later.

It is a figure which shows the positional relationship of the radiation type heater system which concerns on 1st Embodiment of this invention, and a passenger | crew. It is a top view which shows the radiation type heater part in the radiation type heater system shown in FIG. It is sectional drawing which shows the radiation type heater part in the radiation type heater system shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows the example of the positional relationship of a radiation type heater system and a passenger | crew about the radiation type heater system shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows the detection result of each sensor in the example shown in FIG. 4, and estimation by ECU. It is a figure which shows another example of the positional relationship of a radiation type heater system and a passenger | crew about the radiation type heater system shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows the detection result of each sensor in the example shown in FIG. 6, and estimation by ECU. It is a block diagram regarding control of the radiation type heater part in the radiation type heater system shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows each part regarding output operation of the radiation type heater part in the radiation type heater system shown in FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing of the radiation type heater part by ECU based on the detection result of each sensor. It is a figure which shows the positional relationship of an air conditioning apparatus and a passenger | crew when it is set as the structure provided with the air conditioning apparatus which has an air conditioning means as the air conditioning apparatus system which concerns on other embodiment of this invention.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following embodiments, parts that are the same or equivalent to each other will be described with the same reference numerals.

(First embodiment)
A radiant heater system 1 according to a first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. The radiant heater system 1 according to the present embodiment is mounted on a vehicle (vehicle, ship, aircraft, etc.) that carries a person and is mainly used as a heater that warms the occupant's legs, particularly the occupant's feet. Here, in particular, the radiant heater system 1 is configured as a heater mounted on a vehicle such as an automobile. In addition, this radiation type heater system 1 is corresponded to the air conditioning apparatus system as described in a claim.

  Here, since the occupant seated in the passenger seat is likely to change its posture at any time, and in particular, the leg is easily displaced from time to time, the radiation heater system 1 according to the present embodiment is provided in the passenger seat. It is particularly effective when used for a passenger. However, the radiant heater system 1 according to the present embodiment is provided in a seat (driver's seat, rear seat, etc.) other than the passenger seat in the vehicle, and can be used for passengers other than the passenger seated in the seat. It is effective. In addition, in this embodiment, the example which comprised the radiation type heater system 1 for front passenger seats is shown.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the radiant heater system 1 according to the present embodiment includes two radiant heater portions 2 (2a, 2b), a shoulder position sensor 3, a back load sensor 4, and a heel load sensor 5. And a left thigh load sensor 6, a right thigh load sensor 7, and an ECU 8 (see FIG. 8).

Each of the two radiant heater units 2 is a heating device that functions as a heating unit (that is, a heating unit) that uses radiant heat to warm an occupant. In the present embodiment, the radiant heater unit 2 is particularly configured to function as a heating means for warming the occupant's legs. Of the two radiant heater units 2, the radiant heater unit 2a corresponds to the heating unit and the first air-conditioning apparatus described in the claims, and the radiant heater unit 2b corresponds to the claims. It corresponds to the described heating unit and the second air conditioning unit.

  Here, the radiant heater unit 2 is constituted by an electric heater that is supplied with power from a power source such as a battery or a generator mounted on a moving body (vehicle) and generates heat. The radiant heater unit 2 is formed in, for example, a thin plate shape, and radiates radiant heat R mainly in a direction perpendicular to the surface in order to warm an object (occupant's leg) positioned in a direction perpendicular to the surface. To do.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the radiant heater unit 2 is installed in a vehicle interior (for example, a wall surface in the vehicle interior) so as to radiate radiant heat R to the occupant's legs, particularly to the feet. Specifically, here, the radiant heater unit 2 is installed in the lower part of the instrument panel, but may be installed in an interior wall such as another part of the instrument panel or a door trim, for example.

  As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the radiant heater unit 2 is formed in a substantially rectangular thin plate shape, and is a substrate unit 20 constituting a heater body, a plurality of heat generating units 21, and a conductive unit. And a pair of terminals 22. The radiant heater unit 2 is a planar heater that radiates radiant heat R mainly in a direction perpendicular to the surface.

  The substrate unit 20 is made of a resin material having excellent electrical insulation and high temperature resistance. The substrate unit 20 is a multilayer substrate having a front surface layer 20a, a back surface layer 20b, and an intermediate layer 20c. The surface layer 20a is a portion having a surface arranged to face a predetermined part of the occupant's body, which is a heating object, in a state where the radiation heater unit 2 is installed in the vehicle. The back surface layer 20b is a portion having a back surface on the opposite side of the occupant with the front surface layer 20a interposed therebetween in the radiation heater unit 2. The front surface layer 20 a, the back surface layer 20 b, and the intermediate layer 20 c are insulating portions made of a material having lower heat conductivity than the heat generating portion 21 and the terminal 22. The surface layer 20a, the back surface layer 20b, and the intermediate layer 20c are made of, for example, a polyimide resin.

  Each of the plurality of heat generating portions 21 is made of a material that is thermally connected to at least the surface layer 20a and generates heat when energized. The heat generating part 21 is made of, for example, a metal material such as copper, silver, tin, stainless steel, nickel, or nichrome. As shown in FIG. 2, the plurality of heat generating portions 21 are each configured in a linear shape or a plate shape parallel to the surface of the substrate portion 20, and are arranged at a predetermined interval from each other.

  Each heat generating portion 21 is connected to a pair of terminals 22 arranged with a predetermined interval, and is arranged with a predetermined interval between the pair of terminals 22. Specifically, the plurality of heat generating portions 21 connect the pair of terminals 22 and are connected in parallel to the pair of terminals 22, and are provided over substantially the entire surface of the substrate portion 20. The plurality of heat generating portions 21 are isolated and protected from the outside by the substrate portion 20.

  In the radiant heater system 1 according to the present embodiment, the heat generated by the heat generating unit 21 configured in this way is radiated as radiant heat from the surface layer 20a to the outside via a member such as the substrate unit 20. Provided for passengers.

  In the radiant heater system 1 according to the present embodiment, the heat generating portion 21 is set to a predetermined length in order to obtain a predetermined heat generation amount. That is, the heat generating portion 21 is set to have a predetermined resistance value. In addition, the size and shape of each heat generating portion 21 are set so that the thermal resistance in the lateral direction becomes a predetermined value. By setting the plurality of heat generating portions 21 in this way, a predetermined amount of heat is generated by applying a predetermined voltage, and the temperature rises to a predetermined temperature. Then, the plurality of heat generating portions 21 that have risen to a predetermined temperature heat the surface layer 20a to a predetermined radiation temperature. Thus, the radiant heater unit 2 radiates radiant heat R that gives the passenger a feeling of heating.

  The shoulder position sensor 3 is a sensor for detecting the position of the occupant's shoulder. As shown in FIG. 1, the shoulder position sensor 3 is arranged at a portion where the occupant's shoulder is located in the backrest portion 100 a of the seat 100 on which the occupant sits.

As the shoulder position sensor 3, various known position sensors can be employed, and for example, a capacitance type sensor can be used. In this case, for example, a shoulder position sensor 3 constituted by a plurality of capacitance type position sensors is embedded in a portion of the seat back 100 where the occupant's shoulder is located. A plurality of capacitance-type shoulder position sensors 3 detect the presence or absence of a dielectric (occupant's shoulder) on the surface of the backrest portion 100a of the seat 100, thereby corresponding to the detection region of each shoulder position sensor 3. It can be detected that the shoulder of the occupant is located at a predetermined position. As described above, the shoulder position sensor 3 functions as a part of position detection means (that is, a position detection unit) in which the detection result changes according to the difference in the position of the foot of the occupant. That is, the shoulder position sensor 3 corresponds to a position detection unit described in the claims.

  And the result detected by the shoulder position sensor 3 is transmitted to ECU8, and is used for control of the radiation type heater part 2 (it mentions later for details).

  For example, as in the example shown in FIGS. 4 to 7, the shoulder position sensor 3 can detect “high shoulder position” or “low shoulder position”. That is, in this case, for example, when an electrical signal indicated by a current value exceeding a predetermined threshold is detected by the shoulder position sensor 3, it is detected that “shoulder position is high” and a current equal to or lower than the predetermined threshold. When the electric signal indicated by the value is detected, it is detected that “shoulder position is low”. 4 and 5, it is detected that “shoulder position is high”, and in the examples of FIGS. 6 and 7, it is detected that “shoulder position is low”.

  The back load sensor 4 is a sensor for detecting a load caused by a passenger's back. As shown in FIG. 1, the back load sensor is disposed in a portion of the backrest portion 100a of the seat 100 on which the occupant sits where the occupant's back is located.

  As the back load sensor 4, various known load sensors, pressure sensors, and the like can be employed. For example, pressure is detected by detecting a change in internal resistance due to a piezoresistance effect when an external pressure is applied to the semiconductor crystal. A semiconductor pressure sensor for detecting the magnitude of the can be used. In this case, for example, the back load sensor 4 constituted by a semiconductor pressure sensor is embedded in a portion of the seat back 100 where the back of the occupant is located. And the load by the passenger | crew's back is detectable by detecting the pressure applied to the surface of the backrest part 100a of the seat 100 with the back load sensor 4 comprised by the pressure sensor. As described above, the back load sensor 4 functions as a part of a position detection unit in which the detection result changes according to the difference in the position of the occupant's leg. That is, the back load sensor 4 corresponds to the position detection means described in the claims.

  And the result detected by the back load sensor 4 is transmitted to ECU8, and is used for control of the radiation type heater part 2 (it mentions later for details).

  For example, as shown in the examples shown in FIGS. 4 to 7, the back load sensor 4 can detect that “the back load is stable (invariable)” or “the back load is variable”. . That is, in this case, for example, when an electrical signal indicated by a current value that fluctuates within a predetermined range within a predetermined time is detected by the back load sensor 4, “back load is stable (invariable)”. When an electrical signal indicated by a current value that fluctuates beyond a predetermined range within a predetermined time is detected, it is detected that “the back load is variable”. In the examples of FIGS. 4 and 5, it is detected that “back load is stable (invariable)”, and in the examples of FIGS. 6 and 7, it is detected that “back load is variable”. ing.

  The eaves load sensor 5 is a sensor for detecting a load caused by an occupant's eaves. As shown in FIG. 1, the heel load sensor is disposed in a portion where the occupant's heel is located on the seat surface portion 100 b of the seat 100 on which the occupant sits.

Various known load sensors, pressure sensors, and the like can be used as the heel load sensor 5. For example, the pressure can be detected by detecting a change in internal resistance due to a piezoresistance effect when an external pressure is applied to the semiconductor crystal. A semiconductor pressure sensor for detecting the magnitude of the can be used. In this case, for example, the heel load sensor 5 constituted by a semiconductor pressure sensor is embedded in a portion of the seat surface portion 100b of the seat 100 where the occupant's heel is located. And the load by the passenger | crew's heel can be detected by detecting the pressure applied to the surface of the seat surface part 100b of the seat 100 by the back load sensor 4 comprised by the pressure sensor. In this way, the heel load sensor 5 functions as a part of position detection means (that is, a position detection unit) in which the detection result changes according to the difference in the position of the occupant's legs. That is, the heel load sensor 5 corresponds to a position detection unit described in the claims.

  And the result detected by the soot load sensor 5 is transmitted to ECU8, and is used for control of the radiation type heater part 2 (details are mentioned later).

  For example, as in the example shown in FIGS. 4 to 7, it is possible to adopt a configuration in which it is possible to detect that “the heel load is large” or “the heel load is small” by the heel load sensor 5. That is, in this case, for example, when an electrical signal indicated by a current value exceeding a predetermined threshold is detected by the saddle load sensor 5, it is detected that “the saddle load is large” and the current is equal to or less than the predetermined threshold. When the electric signal indicated by the value is detected, it is detected that “the saddle load is small”. In the examples of FIGS. 4 and 5, it is detected that “the soot load is large”, and in the examples of FIGS. 6 and 7, it is detected that “the soot load is small”.

  Both the left thigh load sensor 6 and the right thigh load sensor 7 (hereinafter collectively referred to as thigh load sensors 6 and 7) are sensors for detecting the load on the occupant's thigh. As shown in FIG. 1, the left thigh load sensor 6 is disposed at a portion where the thigh of the left leg of the occupant is located in the seat surface portion 100 b of the seat 100 on which the occupant sits. Similarly, the right thigh load sensor 7 is arranged at a portion where the thigh of the right leg of the occupant is positioned in the seat surface portion 100b of the seat 100 on which the occupant sits.

As the thigh load sensors 6 and 7, various known load sensors, pressure sensors, and the like can be employed. For example, the change in internal resistance due to the piezoresistance effect when an external pressure is applied to the semiconductor crystal. A semiconductor pressure sensor that detects the magnitude of the pressure by detection can be used. In this case, for example, the left thigh load sensor 6 constituted by a semiconductor pressure sensor is embedded in a portion of the seat surface portion 100b of the seat 100 where the thigh of the left leg of the occupant is located. Similarly, the right thigh load sensor 7 constituted by a semiconductor pressure sensor is embedded in a portion of the seat surface portion 100b of the seat 100 where the thigh of the right leg of the occupant is located. Then, by detecting the pressure applied to the surface of the seating surface portion 100b of the seat 100 by each of the thigh load sensors 6 and 7 constituted by pressure sensors, it is possible to detect the load on the thighs of both feet of the occupant. it can. Thus, the thigh load sensors 6 and 7 function as part of position detection means (that is, a position detection unit) in which the detection result changes according to the difference in the position of the occupant's legs. That is, the thigh load sensors 6 and 7 correspond to the position detection unit described in the claims.

  And the result detected by the thigh load sensors 6 and 7 is transmitted to ECU8, and is used for control of the radiation type heater part 2 (details are mentioned later).

  For example, as in the examples shown in FIGS. 4 to 7, the thigh load sensors 6, 7 are used to “legs are lowered (the load is large)”, “legs are lowered (the load is small)” or “legs”. Can be detected ”. That is, in this case, for example, when an electrical signal indicated by a current value higher than a predetermined threshold value (hereinafter referred to as a first threshold value) is detected by the thigh load sensors 6 and 7, “the leg is lowered ( It is detected that the load is large). When the thigh load sensors 6 and 7 detect an electrical signal indicated by a current value lower than a predetermined threshold value (hereinafter referred to as a second threshold value) lower than the first threshold value, the corresponding “leg is lifted”. Is detected. Also, if the thigh load sensors 6 and 7 detect an electrical signal indicated by a current value that is greater than or equal to the first threshold and less than or equal to the second threshold, “the legs are lowered (the load is small)” Is detected. In the examples of FIGS. 4 and 5, it is detected that the left “leg is down (the load is large)” and the right “the leg is floating”. In the examples of FIGS. 6 and 7, Both “legs are down (load is small)” are detected.

  Each of the sensors 3 to 7 includes a detection unit that detects information as an electrical signal, and a signal line connected to the ECU 8 in order to transmit the electrical signal detected by the detection unit to the ECU 8.

  The ECU (Electronic Control Unit) 8 is a device that controls the output, temperature, calorific value, etc. of the radiant heater unit 2. The ECU 8 controls the output value, temperature, and heat generation amount of the radiant heater unit 2 by controlling the voltage value and the current value applied to the radiant heater unit 2 and varies the amount of radiant heat given to the occupant. Note that the control of the output by the ECU 8 here means that the output level is raised or lowered including the cut-off of the output.

  The ECU 8 includes a microcomputer that includes functions such as a CPU (central processing unit) that performs arithmetic processing and control processing, a memory such as a ROM and a RAM, and an I / O port (input / output circuit). .

  Here, basic control by the ECU 8 for the radiation heater unit 2 in the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 8 and 9.

  As shown in FIG. 8, a signal output from the output switch 9 is input to the ECU 8. The output switch 9 is a switch for outputting a signal input to the ECU 8, and includes a cut-in switch 91 and a level setting switch 92 as shown in FIG. In the radiant heater system 1 according to the present embodiment, a signal is input to the ECU 8 from a cut-in switch 91 and a level setting switch 92 on an operation panel that is integrally installed on an instrument panel or the like.

  The cut-in switch 91 instructs the energization signal to instruct the energization of the radiant heater unit 2 that is not energized and the energization signal to the radiant heater unit 2 that is energized. An energization stop signal is transmitted to the ECU 8. As shown in FIG. 9, here, the cut-in switch 91 includes an ON button 91a and an OFF button 91b, and transmits an energization signal to the ECU 8 when the ON button 91a is operated by a passenger or the like. An energization stop signal is transmitted to the ECU 8 when 91b is operated.

  In the radiant heater system 1 according to the present embodiment, even when the ignition switch is turned from OFF to ON while the cut switch 91 is set to ON, the cut switch 91 transmits an energization signal to the ECU 8. To do.

  The level setting switch 92 is a switch for setting the output level of the radiant heater unit 2. When the level raising switch or the level lowering switch is operated by an occupant or the like, a signal about the corresponding output level is transmitted to the ECU 8. To do.

  The level setting switch 92 transmits to the ECU 8 a level increase signal for instructing to increase the output level of the radiant heater unit 2 and a level decrease signal for instructing to decrease the output level. As shown in FIG. 9, here, the level setting switch 92 includes a level raising switch 92a and a level lowering switch 92b. The level setting switch 92 transmits a level increase signal to the ECU 8 when the level increase switch 92a is operated by an occupant or the like, and transmits a level decrease signal to the ECU 8 when the level decrease switch 92b is operated by an occupant or the like. To do.

  In the radiant heater system 1 according to the present embodiment, for example, the level setting switch 92 can set the output level of the radiant heater unit 2 in multiple stages so as to be displayed according to the lighting length of the indicator 93. It is configured. In the radiant heater system 1 according to the present embodiment, the level setting switch 92 allows the output level of the radiant heater unit 2 to be set in three levels: “strong”, “medium”, and “weak”. May be. In the radiant heater system 1 according to the present embodiment, the level setting switch 92 may be configured as a dial type level adjusting device that varies the level value by rotating a knob portion.

  Note that the ECU 8 in this embodiment receives DC power from the battery 10 which is an in-vehicle power source mounted on the vehicle, regardless of whether the ignition switch used for starting and stopping the vehicle engine is turned on or off. Perform processing and control processing. The ECU 8 supplies the electric power supplied from the battery 10 to the radiant heater unit 2 based on the energization signal transmitted from the cut-in switch 91 and the signal transmitted from the level setting switch 92, and supplies the radiant heater unit 2 with the electric power. The output of the radiant heater unit 2 is controlled by controlling the power to be generated.

  The battery 10 is composed of, for example, an assembled battery made up of an assembly of a plurality of unit cells, and each unit cell is composed of, for example, a nickel hydrogen secondary battery, a lithium ion secondary battery, or an organic radical battery. The battery 10 is chargeable / dischargeable, for example, and is used for the purpose of supplying electric power to a vehicle driving motor or the like.

  The output level of the radiant heater unit 2 set by the ECU 8 may be determined by, for example, calculation using a predetermined program in automatic operation.

  The radiant heater unit 2 may be used as an auxiliary heating device for an air conditioner provided in the vehicle. In this case, the ECU 8 is a radiant heater linked to an ECU (not shown) that controls the air conditioner. You may be comprised so that the driving | operation (control) of the part 2 can be performed.

  The above is the basic control by the ECU 8 for the radiation type heater unit 2.

  In addition, the electrical signals from the sensors 3 to 7 are input to the microcomputer of the ECU 8 after being A / D converted by, for example, an I / O port or an A / D conversion circuit. And ECU8 controls the output of the radiation type heater part 2, etc. based on the detection result of each sensor 3-7. Although the specific content of control by ECU8 is mentioned later, ECU8 is comprised as what exhibits the following functions.

That is, the ECU 8 estimates the occupant's body shape (leg length, physique size, etc.) and posture based on the detection results of the sensors 3 to 7, and the radiant heater unit 2 and the occupant's feet. Determine the distance. Note that this determination criterion is set in advance based on the installation position of the radiant heater unit 2 and the like. Then, the ECU 8 performs control for adjusting the output level of the radiant heater unit 2, that is, control for increasing or decreasing the output level of the radiant heater unit 2 in accordance with the result of this determination. That is, the ECU 8 corresponds to a control unit described in the claims. Here, the ECU 8 is configured to estimate the body shape and posture of the occupant by combining the detection results of the sensors 3 to 7.

  Here, as an example, if the ECU 8 detects that “shoulder position is high” based on the detection result of the shoulder position sensor 3, the passenger's “physique is large” and the passenger's “leg is long” It is configured to estimate. Similarly, the ECU 8 is configured to estimate that the occupant has “small physique” and the occupant has “short legs” when detecting that “shoulder position is low”.

  Further, when the ECU 8 detects that “the load on the back is stable (unchangeable)” based on the detection result of the back load sensor 4, the ECU 8 estimates that “the movement of the occupant is small”. It is configured. Similarly, the ECU 8 is configured to estimate that there is “a lot of movement” of the occupant's body when it is detected that “the load on the back is variable”.

  Further, based on the detection result of the heel load sensor 5, the ECU 8 estimates that the occupant has “large physique” and the occupant has “long legs” when detecting that “the load by the heel is large”. It is configured. Similarly, the ECU 8 is configured to estimate that the occupant is “small in size” and the occupant is “short in leg” when detecting that “the load due to the heel is small”. In the radiant heater system 1 according to the present embodiment, the position of the heel is detected based on the detection result of the heel load sensor 5 to determine the distance between the radiant heater unit 2 and the feet of the occupant. Also good.

  Further, when the ECU 8 estimates that the occupant is “large in physique”, the thigh load sensors 6 and 7 indicate that “the legs are lowered (the load is large)” based on the detection results of the thigh load sensors 6 and 7. ”Is detected, the corresponding“ leg is extended ”, and when the thigh load sensors 6 and 7 detect“ the leg is floating ”, the corresponding“ leg is bent ”. ”. When the ECU 8 estimates that the occupant's “physique is large” and the “leg is extended”, the occupant's feet are “close” to the radiant heater unit 2, that is, the occupant's feet are the radiant heater. It determines with being located in the predetermined area | region containing the part 2 (refer the passenger | crew's right leg in FIG. 4). Further, when the ECU 8 estimates that the occupant's “physique is large” and the “leg is bent”, the occupant's feet are “far” from the radiant heater unit 2, that is, the occupant's feet are the radiant heater. It determines with not being located in the predetermined area | region containing the part 2 (refer the passenger | crew's left leg in FIG. 4).

  Further, when the ECU 8 estimates that the occupant is “small in physique”, the thigh load sensors 6 and 7 indicate that “the legs are down (the load is large)” based on the detection results of the thigh load sensors 6 and 7. ”Is detected, the corresponding“ leg is bent ”, and when the thigh load sensors 6 and 7 detect“ the leg is lowered (the load is large) ”, the corresponding“ "Legs are stretched." Here, the ECU 8 determines that the feet of the occupant are “far” from the radiant heater unit 2 when it is estimated that the “physique is small” and “the legs are bent”. Further, when the ECU 8 estimates that the occupant's “physique is small” and “the leg is extended”, the occupant's feet are “close” to the radiant heater unit 2, that is, the occupant's feet are the radiant heater. It determines with being located in the predetermined area | region containing the part 2 (refer the passenger | crew's leg in FIG. 6).

  When the ECU 8 determines that the foot of the occupant is “close” to the radiant heater unit 2, the ECU 8 performs control to lower the output level of the radiant heater unit 2. Here, the ECU 8 is configured not to change the output level of the radiant heater unit 2 when it is determined that the foot of the occupant is “far” from the radiant heater unit 2. However, the ECU 8 may be configured to increase the output level when it is determined that the feet of the occupant are “far” from the radiant heater unit 2.

  When the ECU 8 determines that the foot of the occupant is “close” to the radiant heater unit 2, the side closer to the occupant's foot (here, in particular, the foot of the right leg) of the two radiant heater units 2. The output level of the radiant heater 2a may be lowered. In this case, it is not necessary to lower the output level of the radiant heater 2b on the side farther from the occupant's feet of the two radiant heaters 2, thereby providing a more appropriate feeling of heating to the occupant. .

  In this way, the ECU 8 estimates the occupant's body shape (leg length, size, etc.) and posture based on the detection results of the sensors 3 to 7, and the radiant heater unit 2 and the occupant's feet. Determine the distance. And ECU8 performs control which adjusts the output level of radiation type heater part 2 according to the result of this judgment.

  As an example, in the example of FIGS. 4 to 7, the ECU 8 estimates the size of the occupant's physique and the length of the occupant's leg based on the detection results of the shoulder position sensor 3 and the heel load sensor 5, and the thigh load Based on the detection results of the sensors 6 and 7, it is configured to estimate the raising / lowering and bending of each leg of the occupant. Note that the amount of movement of the occupant may be estimated based on the detection result of the back load sensor 4.

  In the example of FIGS. 4 and 5, the ECU 8 detects that the shoulder position sensor 3 detects that the “shoulder position is high” and the heel load sensor 5 detects that the occupant “the load caused by the heel is large”. Therefore, it is estimated that the occupant is “large in physique” and the occupant is “long in leg” (such as when the occupant is an adult). Further, the left thigh load sensor 6 detects that “the leg is lowered (the load is large)” and the right thigh load sensor 7 detects that “the leg is lifted”. It is estimated that “the legs are extended” and “the legs are bent” on the right. Accordingly, the ECU 8 determines that the foot of the right leg of the occupant is “far” from the radiant heater unit 2 and the foot of the right leg is “close” to the radiant heater unit 2. Therefore, in the examples of FIGS. 4 and 5, the ECU 8 performs control to lower the output level of the radiant heater unit 2 on the side close to the occupant's right leg.

  In the example of FIGS. 6 and 7, the ECU 8 detects that the shoulder position sensor 3 detects the “shoulder position is low” and the saddle load sensor 5 detects that the load on the passenger is small. Therefore, it is estimated that the occupant is “small in physique” and the occupant is “short in legs” (such as when the occupant is a child). In addition, when both the left thigh load sensor 6 and the right thigh load sensor 7 detect that “the legs are lowered (the load is small)”, “the legs are extended” for both the left and right legs of the occupant. Estimated. Accordingly, the ECU 8 determines that the feet of the left and right legs of the occupant are “close” to the radiation heater unit 2. Therefore, in the example of FIGS. 6 and 7, the ECU 8 performs control to lower the output level of one radiation heater unit 2 on the side close to both the left and right legs.

  4 to 7, the detection result of the back load sensor 4 is not used for the control of the ECU 8, but the ECU 8 determines the movement of the occupant based on the detection result of the back load sensor 4. You may be comprised so that many may be estimated and the radiation type heater part 2 may be controlled. At this time, for example, if the back load sensor 4 detects that the load on the back is variable and it is estimated that the body of the occupant is “many movements”, the occupant's feet are instantaneously radiated. The probability of approaching the heater 2 is high. In view of this, when the ECU 8 detects that the load on the back is variable by the back load sensor 4 and estimates that the body of the occupant has “much movement”, the output level of the radiant heater unit 2 is set. You may comprise so that control to lower may be performed.

  A memory such as a ROM and a RAM included in the ECU 8 stores in advance predetermined control characteristic data that is a source of a predetermined arithmetic program and control characteristic gram. This control characteristic data is used for controlling the output of the heat generating portion 21 by the ECU 8.

  The configuration of the radiant heater system 1 according to the present embodiment and the basic control by the ECU 8 for the radiant heater unit 2 have been described above. In the radiant heater system 1 according to the present embodiment described above, when the ECU 8 starts energizing the radiant heater unit 2, the surface temperature of the radiant heater unit 2 rapidly rises to a predetermined radiation temperature. For this reason, according to the radiation type heater system 1 which concerns on this embodiment, a passenger | crew can be given a feeling of heating rapidly.

  Next, control of the radiant heater unit 2 by the ECU 8 based on the detection results of the sensors 3 to 7 will be described with reference to FIG. Note that the control shown in FIG. 10 is executed at predetermined control cycles by the ECU 8 as a control means.

  As shown in FIG. 10, first, the ECU 8 determines whether or not an occupant is seated in a seat (passenger seat) 100 (S10).

  When the ECU 8 determines that an occupant is seated in the seat (passenger seat) 100 (S10: YES), the ECU 8 performs the determination in step S11. Specifically, the ECU 8 detects the occupant's seating based on whether or not the detection by each of the sensors 3 to 7 is performed, and for example, the detection is performed by at least one of the sensors 3 to 7. When the load is detected (such as when a load is detected by the back load sensor 4), the determination in step S11 is performed.

  In step S11, the ECU 8 determines whether or not the passenger's "shoulder position is high".

  And ECU8 performs determination of step S12, when it determines with a passenger | crew's "shoulder position is high" (S11: YES). That is, the ECU 8 performs the determination in step S12 when the shoulder position sensor 3 detects that the “shoulder position is high” of the occupant.

  In step S <b> 12, the ECU 8 determines whether or not the occupant has a “heavy load”.

  And ECU8 performs determination of step S13, when it determines with a passenger | crew's "saddle load being large" (S12: YES). That is, the ECU 8 performs the determination in step S13 when the occupant load sensor 5 detects that the occupant has a “high heel load”.

  In step S13, the ECU 8 determines whether or not the occupant “at least one leg is lowered (the load is large)”.

  When the ECU 8 determines that “at least one leg is lowered (the load is large)” of the occupant (S13: YES), the ECU 8 performs the determination in step S14. Specifically, the ECU 8 performs the determination in step S14 when it is detected by at least one of the left thigh load sensor 6 and the right thigh load sensor 7 that “the leg is lowered (the load is large)”. .

  In step S <b> 14, the ECU 8 determines whether or not “control for lowering the output level of the radiant heater unit 2 (hereinafter, this control is referred to as output reduction control)” is performed. That is, in step S14, the ECU 8 determines whether or not output reduction control is being performed.

  When it is determined that the output reduction control is not being performed (S14: NO), the ECU 8 executes the output reduction control (S15). Specifically, the ECU 8 is configured so that, for example, when the output reduction control is not being performed, the radiation heater unit 2 can set the output level in three stages of “strong”, “medium”, and “weak” and is in operation. When the output level of the radiant heater unit 2 before the output reduction control is “strong”, output reduction control such as lowering the output level to “medium” or “weak” is executed.

  And ECU8 performs the determination of step S10 again, after performing the process of step S15.

  Further, the ECU 8 ends the control when no occupant is seated in the seat (passenger seat) 100 (S10: NO).

  Further, when it is detected that “the shoulder position of the occupant is low” (S11: NO), the ECU 8 performs the determination in step S16. That is, the ECU 8 performs the determination in step S16 when the shoulder position sensor 3 detects that the “shoulder position is low” of the occupant.

  In addition, when it is detected that the occupant has “small saddle load” (S12: NO), the ECU 8 performs the determination in step S16. That is, the ECU 8 performs the determination in step S16 when the occupant load sensor 5 detects that the occupant has a large heel load.

  In step S <b> 16, the ECU 8 determines whether or not “at least one leg is lowered (load is small)” of both of the passengers.

  When the ECU 8 determines that it does not match the “at least one leg is lowered (the load is small)” of the occupant (S16: NO), the ECU 8 performs the determination in step S17. That is, when the ECU 8 detects that “the leg is floating” or “the leg is lowered (the load is large)” in both the left thigh load sensor 6 and the right thigh load sensor 7, the ECU 8 performs step S14. Make a decision.

  Further, when the ECU 8 determines that it does not match the “at least one leg is lowered (the load is large)” of the occupant (S13: NO), the ECU 8 performs the determination in step S17. That is, when the ECU 8 detects that “the leg is floating” or “the leg is lowered (the load is small)” in either the left thigh load sensor 6 or the right thigh load sensor 7, the ECU 8 Make a decision.

  In addition, when the ECU 8 determines that “at least one leg is lowered (the load is small)” of the occupant (S16: YES), the ECU 8 performs the determination in step S14. That is, the ECU 8 performs the determination in step S14 when it is detected that “the legs are lowered (the load is small)” in at least one of the left thigh load sensor 6 and the right thigh load sensor 7.

  In step S17, the ECU 8 determines whether or not output reduction control is being performed.

  When it is determined that the output reduction control is not being performed (S17: NO), the ECU 8 performs the determination in step S10 again.

  When it is determined that the output reduction control is being performed (S17: YES), the ECU 8 cancels the output reduction control (S18). Specifically, when the output reduction control is being performed, the ECU 8 is configured such that, for example, the radiation heater unit 2 can set the output level in three stages of “strong”, “medium”, and “weak” When the output level of the radiant heater unit 2 is lowered from “strong” to “medium” by the lowering control, control for returning the output level to “strong” is executed.

  Then, the ECU 8 ends the control after the process of step S18.

  When it is determined that the output reduction control is being performed (S14: YES), the ECU 8 performs the determination in step S10 again.

  Thus, ECU8 controls the output of the radiation type heater part 2 based on the detection result of each sensor 3-7. The control of the radiant heater unit 2 by the ECU 8 based on the detection results of the sensors 3 to 7 has been described above.

  According to the radiant heater system 1 described above, when the occupant's feet are close to the radiant heater unit 2, the output level of the radiant heater unit 2 is reduced. The output level of the heater unit 2 can be adjusted. For this reason, according to this radiation type heater system 1, it is suppressed that a crew member's feet are too close to or far from a radiation type heater part 2 by a crew member's body shape and posture, and it is controlled that a crew member feels an excess and deficiency of heating feeling. can do.

  As described above, in the radiant heater system 1 according to the present embodiment, the position detection means (shoulder position sensor 3, heel load sensor 5, thigh load sensor 6) in which the detection result changes according to the difference in the position of the foot of the occupant. 7) and a control means (ECU 8) for controlling the radiant heater unit 2 in accordance with the detection result of the position detection means.

  For this reason, in the radiant heater system 1 according to the present embodiment, when the occupant's feet are close to the radiant heater unit 2, the output level of the radiant heater unit 2 is reduced. The output level of the heater unit 2 can be adjusted. Therefore, in the radiation type heater system 1 which concerns on this embodiment, it suppresses that a passenger | crew feels the excess or deficiency of a heating feeling because a passenger | crew's step is too close to the radiation type heater part 2 or too far by a passenger | crew's attitude | position. be able to.

  Further, in the radiation heater system 1 according to the present embodiment, the control means (ECU 8) is configured so that the occupant's feet are positioned within a predetermined area including the radiation heater unit 2 based on the detection results of the position detection means 3-7. When it determines with having carried out, it is comprised so that the output level of the radiation type heater part 2 may be lowered | hung.

  For this reason, in the radiant heater system 1 according to the present embodiment, when the occupant's feet are close to the radiant heater unit 2, the output level of the radiant heater unit 2 can be lowered, and the occupant's body can be changed depending on the occupant's posture. It can suppress that a passenger | crew feels an excessive feeling of heating because this site | part is too close to the radiation type heater part 2. FIG.

  Moreover, in the radiation type heater system 1 according to the present embodiment, when the control means (ECU 8) determines that the feet of the occupant are located within a predetermined area, the occupant among the plurality of radiant type heater units 2 is used. It is comprised so that the output level of the 1 or several radiation type heater part 2 of the side close | similar to the step may be lowered | hung.

  For this reason, in the radiation type heater system 1 according to the present embodiment, it is more appropriate to reduce the output level of the radiation type heater unit 2 on the side farther from the foot of the occupant among the plurality of radiation type heater units 2. A sense of heating can be provided to the passengers.

(Other embodiments)
The present invention is not limited to the embodiment described above, and can be appropriately changed within the scope described in the claims.

  For example, in the first embodiment, a heating device having a heating unit that heats a predetermined part of the occupant's body using radiant heat, and a position where the detection result changes according to a difference in position of the predetermined part of the occupant's body. An example of an air-conditioning apparatus system according to the present invention provided with a detecting means is shown. In other words, in the first embodiment, as an example of such a cooling / heating device system, detection is performed according to the difference in the position of the radiant heater unit 2 as a heating device that uses radiant heat to warm the feet of the passenger and the position of the passenger's feet. The radiation type heater system 1 provided with each sensor 3-7 as a position detection means from which a result changes was shown. Here, the “predetermined part” of the occupant's body in the present invention is not limited to the “foot” of the occupant. In other words, the radiation heater system 1 according to the first embodiment may be configured to target a “predetermined part” (for example, an arm) other than the “foot” in the occupant's body. That is, in the radiant heater system 1 according to the first embodiment, the radiant heater unit 2 as a heating device that uses radiant heat to heat a predetermined part other than the feet of the occupant's body, and a predetermined one other than the feet of the occupant. It is good also as a structure provided with each sensor 3-7 as a position detection means from which a detection result changes according to the difference in the position of a part. Even in this configuration, when a predetermined part of the occupant's body is close to the radiant heater unit 2, the radiant heater unit 2 corresponds to the occupant's posture, such as lowering the output level of the radiant heater unit 2. The output level can be adjusted. For this reason, in the radiant heater system 1 according to the present embodiment, a predetermined part of the occupant is too close to or too far from the radiant heater unit 2 depending on the occupant's posture, so that the occupant feels that the feeling of heating is excessive or insufficient. Can be suppressed.

  Further, when the control means determines that a predetermined part of the occupant's body is continuously located within a predetermined area based on the detection results of the position detection means 3 to 7, the radiant heater unit 2 is used. The output level may be lowered. In this case, for example, by appropriately setting the predetermined time, the ECU 8 can estimate that the occupant is sleeping. Therefore, in this case, when it is estimated that the occupant is sleeping, it is possible to perform control such as lowering the output level of the radiant heater unit 2.

  In the first embodiment, each of the sensors 3 to 7 is used as the position detection unit. However, the position detection unit is not limited to these 3 to 7. That is, in the air conditioning apparatus system, only one of the sensors 3 to 7 may be used, or a sensor of another method other than the capacitance type sensor may be used.

  For example, instead of the saddle load sensor 5, a pressure sensor may be installed on the surface of the seat surface portion 100b of the seat 100, and the load of each part of the occupant may be detected by pressure detection. Further, instead of the saddle load sensor 5, a large number of contact-type mechanical switches that are switched on when pressed may be disposed inside the seat surface portion 100 b of the seat 100. Further, as a position detection means, an IR sensor (infrared sensor) used for air conditioning or the like may be used to directly detect a predetermined part (such as a foot) of the occupant's body. Further, a predetermined part (such as a foot) of the occupant's body may be detected by using a visual sensor or a camera as the position detection means. Further, in a vehicle such as an automobile, a sensor for detecting the position of a predetermined part of an occupant used for controlling the operation of the airbag may be used in combination as the position detecting means in the present invention. Further, a position detecting means (sensor) may be newly added as a means for improving a sensor used for controlling the operation of the airbag.

  Moreover, in 1st Embodiment, the example which applied this invention to the radiant heater system 1 provided with the radiant heater part 2 which is a heating apparatus which has a heating means which warms a passenger | crew using radiant heat as a cooling / heating apparatus system. Indicated. However, the present invention is not limited to this example.

That is, as shown in FIG. 11, the present invention may be applied to a cooler system including a cooler air blowing unit (HVAC) 12 as air conditioning means (that is, an air conditioning unit) that cools an occupant using air blowing. In this case, ECU8 should just be set as the structure which can control the output of the cooler ventilation part 12 based on the detection result of the position detection means 3-7. Thereby, when a predetermined part (such as a foot) of the occupant's body is close to the cooler blower 12 (strictly, the air outlet 12a of the cooler blower 12), the output level of the cooler blower 12 is reduced. The output level of the cooler blower 12 can be adjusted in accordance with the posture. For this reason, according to this cooler system, it is suppressed that a crew member's body part is too close to the blower outlet 12a of cooler ventilation part 12, or it is too far according to a crew member's posture, and it is controlled that a crew member feels an over and under feeling of cooling. can do. In addition, the cooler ventilation part 12 in this case is corresponded to the air- conditioning part and 1st air conditioning apparatus as described in a claim.

  Moreover, you may apply this invention to an air-conditioning / heating apparatus system provided with both the radiation type heater part 2 and the cooler ventilation part 12. FIG.

2 Radiation Heater 3 Shoulder Position Sensor 4 Back Load Sensor 5 Hail Load Sensor 6 Left Thigh Load Sensor 7 Right Thigh Load Sensor 8 ECU
12 Cooler blower 100 Seat 100a Seat backrest 100b Seat seat

Claims (10)

Heating unit for warming the part of occupant's body in the vehicle by utilizing the spokes Inetsu, and the at least one of cooling the portion of the occupant's body by using a blower, or warms the air conditioning unit 1 air conditioner (2a, 12),
A second air conditioner having at least one of a heating unit that warms the part of the occupant's body using radiant heat and an air conditioning unit that cools or warms the part of the occupant's body using air blowing ( 2b)
Position detection unit detecting result changes according to the difference of the part position of the occupant's body and (3,4,5,6,7),
A control unit (8) for controlling the first air conditioning device according to the detection result of the position detection unit ,
When the control unit determines that the part of the occupant's body is located in the predetermined area based on the detection result of the position detection unit, the control unit decreases the output level of the first air conditioning apparatus. An air conditioner system that does not lower the output level of the second air conditioner . When the control unit determines that the part of the occupant's body is continuously located within the predetermined area based on the detection result of the position detection unit , the first air conditioner air conditioner system according to 請 Motomeko 1 Ru reduce the output level. The position detection unit of the detection result, varying turned into in accordance with the magnitude of the occupant body shape,
Wherein the control unit is based on the detection result of the position detection unit, air conditioner system according to the output level of the first air conditioner to 請 Motomeko 1 or 2 Ru lowered when it is determined that the occupant of the body shape is low . It said position detection unit, the backrest (100a) to the provided is in shoulder position sensor for detecting the shoulder position of the occupant (3) 3 to 請 Motomeko 1 to have that is constituted by a seat (100) which the occupant sits The air conditioning apparatus system as described in any one. Said position detection unit, the occupant is provided in the backrest of the seat (100) seated (100a), to 請 Motomeko no 1 that is constituted by the back load sensor (4) for detecting the load applied by the occupant's back The air conditioning apparatus system as described in any one of 3 . Said position detection unit, provided in the portion where the occupant is said occupant anal position in the seat surface portion (100b) of the seat (100) seated by anal load sensor for detecting the load applied by the gluteal of the occupant (5) air conditioner system according to to any one of the three 請 Motomeko 1 to have that are configured. Said position detection unit, the passenger is provided on the portion where the occupant of the femur is positioned in the seat surface portion (100b) of the seat (100) seated, femoral load sensor (6, 7 for detecting the load applied by the thighs of the occupant air conditioner system according to to any one of the three 請 Motomeko no 1 that is composed of). The heating unit, warm Me at least the passenger's feet,
The air-conditioning unit is to chilled at least the passenger's feet,
Air conditioner system according to the portion of the occupant's body, one of the 請 Motomeko 1 to 7 which is the passenger's feet. Said position detection unit, heating and cooling system according to any one of 請 Motomeko no 1 that is composed by the sensor (3-6) provided in the passenger seat of the vehicle 8. A second air conditioner (2b) different from the first air conditioner;
  The air conditioning apparatus system according to claim 1, wherein the control unit controls the first air conditioning apparatus and the second air conditioning apparatus independently of each other.

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