JP6975585B2 - Vehicle air conditioner - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a device that circulates air in the passenger compartment of a vehicle such as an automobile.

In a vehicle such as an automobile, an air conditioner for the passenger compartment is used to heat or cool the passenger compartment in which an occupant including a driver rides.
Further, in an automobile exposed to direct sunlight, in order to heat or cool the interior of the vehicle, it is common to use an air conditioner in the vehicle interior, which has higher performance than the space.
As a result, it is necessary to use a large amount of electric power to operate the compressor of the vehicle interior air conditioner.
This has a direct effect on fuel efficiency in automobiles that use electricity as power. (Patent Documents 1 and 2)

Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 57-205212 Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 58-022709

However, even if such a high-performance vehicle interior air conditioner is used, the outlet is provided at the lower foot or the upper part of the dashboard. In Patent Documents 1 and 2, only the outlet of the vehicle interior air conditioner is added on the upper side of the steering column.
In this case, it is possible to blow the air flow directly to the upper body of the occupant seated on the seat from the upper air outlet, but it is difficult to blow the air flow directly to the lower limbs of the occupant. ..
The passenger compartment air conditioner can only indirectly adjust the temperature of the lower limbs of the occupant by adjusting the temperature of the passenger compartment.

In addition, when the air flow is directly blown from the upper air outlet to the upper body of the occupant, the air flow hitting the face may make the occupant feel uncomfortable.

As described above, the vehicle is required to improve the overall comfort including the lower limbs of the occupant seated in the seat.

The vehicle air conditioner according to the present invention is provided in the vehicle interior with both ends open to absorb and exhaust the air in the vehicle interior, and is provided on the seat above the seat surface of the vehicle interior. It has a cover member located at least above the knee or thigh for a seated occupant, and the cover member located at least above the knee or thigh faces the abdomen of the occupant seated in the seat. A first opening that is formed and functions as an opening at one end of the communication passage is formed.

Preferably, the cover member is formed with a second opening leading to the communication passage toward the abdomen of the occupant seated on the seat, and the first opening and the second opening are formed. , It is preferable that the cover members are arranged along the vehicle width direction, one of which is intake and the other of which is exhaust.

Preferably, the communication passage is provided in the cover member with the second opening and the third opening arranged on both sides of the first opening in the vehicle width direction and under the feet of the occupant seated on the seat. It has a front lower opening that opens near the discharge port of the air conditioner in the passenger compartment, and the first opening, the second opening, the third opening, and the front lower opening. It is preferable to have a control unit capable of individually controlling intake and exhaust.

Preferably, when the heating of the passenger compartment is started, the control unit exhausts the air taken in from the front lower opening at the feet from the central first opening and the second openings on both sides. And the air taken in from the third opening or the air taken in from the front lower opening at the feet is exhausted from the second opening and the third opening on both sides and taken in from the central first opening. It is good to do it.

Preferably, when the heating of the vehicle interior is advanced, the control unit exhausts the air taken in from the front lower opening at the feet from the second opening on the outer side in the vehicle width direction, and at the same time, the first in the center. It is preferable to switch to intake air from the opening and the third opening on the inner side in the vehicle width direction.

Preferably, when the heating of the passenger compartment is started in a state where the occupant is present behind the seat provided with the cover member, the control unit takes in air from the front lower opening at the feet. Is exhausted from the second opening and the third opening on both sides, and is taken in from the first opening in the center.

Preferably, when the heating of the passenger compartment is advanced, the control unit stops the intake and exhaust of the front and lower openings at the feet, and exhausts air from the second and third openings on both sides. It is preferable to switch to take in air from the first opening in the center.

Preferably, when the cooling of the passenger compartment is started, the control unit takes in air taken from the first opening, the second opening and the third opening to the front and lower openings at the feet. It is good to exhaust from.

Preferably, when the cooling of the passenger compartment is advanced, the control unit draws air taken in from the front lower opening at the feet from the first opening, the second opening and the third opening. Switch to exhaust.

Preferably, the control unit takes in air from the first opening in the center when cooling of the passenger compartment is started in a state where an occupant is present behind the seat provided with the cover member. Is exhausted from the second opening and the third opening on both sides and the front lower opening at the feet.

Preferably, when the cooling of the passenger compartment is advanced, the control unit draws air taken in from the front lower opening at the feet from the first opening, the second opening and the third opening. Switch to exhaust.

In the present invention, the passenger compartment of the vehicle is provided with a cover member so as to be located above the seat surface of the seat and at least above the knees or thighs of the occupant seated on the seat. Then, the cover member is formed with a first opening toward the abdomen of the occupant seated on the seat. The first opening functions as an opening at one end of the communication passage through the communication passage.
Therefore, by sucking and exhausting the conditioned air in the vehicle interior from the first opening to the communication passage, the conditioned air in the vehicle interior can be flowed around the knees or thighs of the occupant seated on the seat. .. The knees and thighs of the occupant seated on the seat can be directly warmed and cooled by the flowing conditioned air.
Moreover, the first opening is provided in the cover member located above the knee or thigh toward the abdomen of the occupant seated on the seat. Therefore, for example, a part of the air sucked and exhausted from the first opening can directly air-condition the abdomen of the occupant seated on the seat, and can generate an air flow flowing along the abdomen and chest of the occupant.

In particular, the first opening and the second opening are arranged along the vehicle width direction in the cover member toward the abdomen of the occupant seated on the seat, and one is taken in and exhausted from the other. As a result, an air flow can be formed between the first opening and the second opening between the first opening and the second opening and the abdomen of the occupant seated on the seat.
Therefore, for example, even if a large amount of air flow is exhausted from the first opening, most of it is sucked in through the second opening to effectively air-condition the portion between the occupant's knees and abdomen. , It is possible to suppress the air flow that leaks upward along the upper body of the occupant.
It is possible to suppress the air flow that blows up from below toward the occupant's face.

FIG. 1 is a schematic explanatory view of an automobile according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram of a main part configuration of the vehicle interior air conditioner of FIG. FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram of a main part configuration of the air conditioner according to the first embodiment. FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram of a main part configuration of the air conditioner according to the second embodiment. FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram of a main part configuration of the air conditioner according to the third embodiment. FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing an example of flow path switching control during heating according to the third embodiment. FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram of an intake / exhaust pattern of the communication passage in each control state of FIG. FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing an example of flow path switching control during cooling according to the third embodiment. FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram of an intake / exhaust pattern of the communication passage in each control state of FIG.

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[First Embodiment]
FIG. 1 is a schematic explanatory view of an automobile 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

The vehicle body of the automobile 1 of FIG. 1 has a passenger compartment 2 on which an occupant rides, and front chambers 3 and rear chambers 4 arranged in front of and behind the passenger compartment 2. In the passenger compartment 2, seats 5 on which the occupants are seated are provided in two rows in the front and rear. Further, in front of the front right seat 5, a steering column 7 is provided so as to project backward from the dashboard 6 toward the occupant seated on the seat 5. A steering 8 operated by an occupant seated on the seat 5 is arranged on the steering column 7.

FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram of a main part configuration of the vehicle interior air conditioner 10 of FIG.

The vehicle interior air conditioner 10 of FIG. 2 includes a temperature sensor 11, a solar radiation sensor 12, a humidity sensor 13, an vehicle interior air conditioning control unit 14, a blower fan 15, a compressor 16, an evaporator 17, a heater 18, and an air conditioning duct 19.
The temperature sensor 11 detects the temperature of the vehicle interior 2.
The solar radiation sensor 12 detects the amount of solar radiation emitted to the vehicle interior 2 through the window glass.
The humidity sensor 13 detects the temperature of the vehicle interior 2.
The compressor 16 is connected to an evaporator 17 and a capacitor (not shown), and a refrigerant is circulated between them.
The blower fan 15, the evaporator 17, and the heater 18 are arranged in the air conditioning duct 19 leading to the vehicle interior 2. For example, the air conditioning duct 19 takes in air from outside the vehicle interior 2 and exhausts air into the vehicle from the air outlet 20 at the upper part of the dashboard 6 and the air outlet 20 at the lower side of the dashboard 6 as shown in FIG.
The blower fan 15 creates an air flow in the air conditioning duct 19.
The evaporator 17 is cooled by the refrigerant and cools the air passing through the air conditioning duct 19.
The heater 18 heats the air passing through the air conditioning duct 19.
A temperature sensor 11, a solar radiation sensor 12, a humidity sensor 13, a blower fan 15, a compressor 16, and a heater 18 are connected to the vehicle interior air conditioning control unit 14.
The vehicle interior air conditioning control unit 14 controls the operations of the blower fan 15, the compressor 16, and the heater 18 according to the relationship between the values detected by the temperature sensor 11, the solar radiation sensor 12, and the humidity sensor 13 and the control target value.
As a result, the vehicle interior air conditioner 10 can blow out the heated or cooled air flow from the air outlet 20 of the air conditioning duct 19 to the vehicle interior 2. Then, for example, the overall temperature of the vehicle interior 2 is controlled so that the detected temperature of the vehicle interior 2 becomes the target temperature.

By the way, by providing such a vehicle interior air conditioner 10, the temperature of the vehicle interior 2 can be appropriately adjusted.
Further, in an automobile 1 exposed to direct sunlight, in order to heat or cool the inside of the vehicle interior 2, it is common that a vehicle interior air conditioner 10 having higher performance than the space is used.
As a result, it is necessary to use a large amount of electric power or the like to operate the compressor or the like of the vehicle interior air conditioner 10.
This directly affects the fuel efficiency of the automobile 1 that uses electricity as power.

Moreover, even if such a high-performance vehicle interior air conditioner 10 is used, the outlet 20 is provided at the lower foot or upper part of the dashboard 6.
Therefore, it is possible to blow the air flow directly from the upper outlet 20 to the upper body of the occupant seated on the seat 5, but it is not possible to blow the air flow directly to the lower limbs of the occupant. difficult.
The vehicle interior air conditioner 10 can only indirectly control the temperature of the lower limbs of the occupant only by adjusting the temperature of the vehicle interior 2.

Further, when the air flow is directly blown from the upper air outlet 20 to the upper body of the occupant, the air flow hitting the face may make the occupant feel uncomfortable.

As described above, the automobile 1 is required to improve the overall comfort including the lower limbs of the occupant seated in the seat 5.

FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram of a main part configuration of the individual air conditioner 30 according to the first embodiment.

The individual air conditioner 30 of FIG. 3 has a partition plate 31, a communication passage 34, a forced air blower 35, and a control unit 38. Further, FIG. 3 illustrates the temperature sensor 11, the solar radiation sensor 12, the humidity sensor 13, the vehicle interior air conditioning control unit 14, and the timer 39 of the vehicle interior air conditioner 10. In addition to the individual air conditioner 30, the individual air conditioner 30 may have its own sensors such as a temperature sensor 11, a solar radiation sensor 12, and a humidity sensor 13.

The partition plate 31 has a width corresponding to the seat 5 and is provided so as to project rearward from the rear end of the dashboard 6. The trailing edge of the partition plate 31 is located above the seating surface of the seat 5 and behind the front edge of the seat 5. As a result, the partition plate 31 is located at a distance above the knees and thighs of the occupant seated on the seat 5, and partitions the passenger compartment 2 up and down.
The partition plate 31 may be positioned above the knees of the occupant seated on the seat 5 at a distance.

Further, a first opening 41 is formed in the central portion of the rear surface of the partition plate 31 in the left-right direction, that is, in the central portion of the surface in front of the abdomen of the occupant seated on the seat 5. The first opening 41 is formed at a position facing the abdomen of the occupant seated on the seat 5 and corresponding to the center in the width direction of the seat 5.

The communication passage 34 is provided along the lower surface of the dashboard 6 so as to extend from the lower front to the upper rear.
The communication passage 34 communicates with the first opening 41. The first opening 41 functions as an upper rear opening at one end of the communication passage 34.
A lower front opening 44 is provided at the lower front end of the communication passage 34. The lower front opening 44 is located below the dashboard 6. Near the front of the lower front opening 44, the air outlet 20 of the air conditioning duct 19 of the vehicle interior air conditioner 10 is located.
in this way,

The forced air blower 35 is provided in the central portion of the communication passage 34. By rotating, for example, a fan of the forced air blower 35, an air flow is generated inside the communication passage 34. The air in the vehicle is taken into the communication passage 34 from one of the first opening 41 and the lower front opening 44 and exhausted from the other, depending on the forward and reverse rotation directions of the fan of the forced blower 35.
The individual air conditioner 30 can forcibly circulate the air inside the vehicle by sucking and exhausting the air inside the vehicle from both ends of the communication passage 34.

A temperature sensor 11, a solar radiation sensor 12, a humidity sensor 13, a vehicle interior air conditioning control unit 14, a timer 39, and a forced air blower 35 are connected to the control unit 38.
Then, the control unit 38 controls the operation of the forced air blower 35 according to the temperature, humidity, amount of solar radiation, operating time, and the operating state of the vehicle interior air conditioner 10.

Specifically, for example, when the vehicle interior air conditioner 10 blows warm air from the outlet 20 on the lower side of the dashboard 6 in order to heat the vehicle interior 2, the control unit 38 operates the forced air blower device 35. The forced air blower 35 generates an air flow from the lower front opening 44 to the first opening 41 in the communication passage 34.
As a result, the individual air conditioner 30 takes in a part of the warm air blown from the outlet 20 on the lower side of the dashboard 6 to the passenger compartment 2 into the communication passage 34 and exhausts it from the first opening 41.
The warm air exhausted from the first opening 41 mainly goes to the knees and thighs of the occupant seated on the seat 5 and can warm the lower limbs of the occupant.
Further, a part of the warm air exhausted from the first opening 41 flows backward and warms the abdomen of the occupant seated on the seat 5. Some of the warm air that warms the occupant's abdomen blows up along the front of the occupant's upper body.
As a result, the entire area from the lower limbs to the upper body of the occupant seated on the seat 5 can be wrapped with warm air.

In addition to this, for example, when the vehicle interior air conditioner 10 blows cold air from the air outlet 20 at the upper part of the dashboard 6 to cool the vehicle interior 2, the control unit 38 operates the forced blower device 35. The forced air blower 35 generates an air flow from the first opening 41 toward the lower front opening 44 in the communication passage 34.
As a result, the individual air conditioner 30 takes in a part of the cold air blown from the air outlet 20 at the upper part of the dashboard 6 to the passenger compartment 2 from the first opening 41 into the communication passage 34, and from the lower front opening 44. Exhaust.
The cold air exhausted from the lower front opening 44 flows from the toe side of the occupant seated on the seat 5 toward the knees and thighs, and can cool the occupant's lower limbs.
As a result, the entire lower limbs of the occupant seated on the seat 5 can be wrapped by excitation.

As described above, in the present embodiment, the passenger compartment 2 of the automobile 1 is provided with a partition plate 31 so as to be located at least above the knee or thigh of the occupant seated on the seat 5 above the seat surface of the seat 5. Be done. Then, the partition plate 31 is formed with a first opening 41 facing the abdomen of the occupant seated on the seat 5 on the front surface of the abdomen. The first opening 41 communicates with the communication passage 34 and functions as an opening at one end of the communication passage 34.
Therefore, by sucking and exhausting the conditioned air in the passenger compartment 2 from the first opening 41 to the communication passage 34, the conditioned air in the passenger compartment 2 is conditioned around the knees or thighs of the occupant seated on the seat 5. Air can flow. The knees and thighs of the occupant seated on the seat 5 can be directly warmed or cooled by the flowing conditioned air.

Moreover, the first opening 41 is provided in the partition plate 31 located above the knee or thigh toward the abdomen of the occupant seated on the seat 5. Therefore, for example, a part of the air sucked and exhausted from the first opening 41 can directly air-condition the abdomen of the occupant seated on the seat 5, and can generate an air flow flowing along the abdomen and chest of the occupant. This air flow can be controlled by, for example, the direction and speed of rotation of the fan provided in the first opening 41. By adjusting the airflow, the airflow rising from below toward the face of the occupant seated on the seat 5 can be adjusted.

[Second Embodiment]
Next, the individual air conditioner 30 according to the second embodiment will be described. In the following description, the same reference numerals as those of the first embodiment will be used, and the differences from the first embodiment will be mainly described.

FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram of a main part configuration of the individual air conditioner 30 according to the second embodiment.

The first opening 41 and the second opening 42 are arranged and formed along the vehicle width direction on the rear surface of the partition plate 31. The first opening 41 and the second opening 42 are formed so as to face the abdomen of the occupant seated on the seat 5. The first opening 41 and the second opening 42 communicate with the communication passage 34.

The first forced blower 51 has a first fan as a blower member provided in the outer first opening 41.
The second forced blower 52 has a second fan as a blower member provided in the inner second opening 42.
The lower front forced blower 54 has a lower front fan as a blower member provided in the lower front opening 44.
The first forced blower 51, the second forced blower 52, and the lower front forced blower 54 are connected to the control unit 38, and the direction, flow rate, and stop of intake and exhaust are individually controlled.

When the passenger compartment air conditioner 10 blows warm air from the lower outlet 20 of the dashboard 6 to heat the passenger compartment 2, the control unit 38 controls the first forced blower 51, the second forced blower 52, and the lower side. The operation of the front forced air blower 54 is individually controlled.
For example, as shown in FIG. 4A, the lower front forced blower device 54 is used as intake air, the first forced blower device 51 is used as exhaust gas, and the second forced blower device 52 is used as intake air.
As a result, the warm air blown out from the lower outlet 20 of the dashboard 6 is taken in from the lower front opening 44 and exhausted from the first opening 41 to rapidly warm the lower limbs of the occupant seated in the seat 5. be able to.
Moreover, at least a part of the warm air exhausted from the first opening 41 is taken in from the second opening 42. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the amount of warm air rising from the abdomen of the occupant along the upper body.

When the vehicle room air conditioner 10 blows warm air from the air outlet 20 at the upper part of the dashboard 6 to cool the vehicle room 2, the control unit 38 uses the first forced air blower 51, the second forced air blower 52, and the lower front. The operation of the forced air blower 54 is individually controlled.
For example, as shown in FIG. 4B, the lower front forced air blower 54 is used as an exhaust gas, the first forced air blower device 51 is used as an exhaust gas, and the second forced air blower device 52 is used as an intake air.
As a result, the cold air blown out from the air outlet 20 at the upper part of the dashboard 6 is taken in from the second opening 42 and exhausted from the lower front opening 44, and is along the lower limbs from the toes of the occupant seated in the seat 5. It can be circulated and the lower limbs can be cooled rapidly.
Moreover, the cold air exhausted from the first opening 41 can circulate the cold air around the upper body of the occupant seated on the seat 5.
Moreover, a part of the cold air exhausted from the first opening 41 can be taken in from the second opening 42. Therefore, the amount of cold air rising from the abdomen of the occupant along the upper body can be suppressed.

As described above, in the present embodiment, the first opening 41 and the second opening 42 are arranged along the vehicle width direction in the partition plate 31 toward the abdomen of the occupant seated on the seat 5. ing.
Then, by sucking in one and exhausting from the other, the first opening 41 and the second opening are between the first opening 41, the second opening 42, and the abdomen of the occupant seated on the seat 5. An air flow can be formed with 42.
Therefore, for example, even if a large amount of air flow is exhausted from the first opening 41, most of the air flow is sucked through the second opening 42 to effectively air-condition the portion between the occupant's knees and abdomen. At the same time, it is possible to suppress the air flow that leaks upward along the upper body of the occupant.
It is difficult for the air flow exhausted from the first opening 41 to blow up from below toward the occupant's face as it is. The airflow that blows up on the face makes it less likely that the occupant will feel uncomfortable.

[Third Embodiment]
Next, the individual air conditioner 30 according to the third embodiment will be described. In the following description, the same reference numerals as those of the first embodiment will be used, and the differences from the first embodiment will be mainly described.

FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram of a main part configuration of the individual air conditioner 30 according to the third embodiment.
On the rear surface of the partition plate 31, an outer second opening 42, a central first opening 41, and an inner third opening 43 are arranged and formed along the vehicle width direction. The first opening 41, the second opening 42, and the third opening 43 are formed so as to face the abdomen of the occupant seated on the seat 5. The first opening 41, the second opening 42, and the third opening 43 communicate with the communication passage 34.
The first opening 41 is provided at a position corresponding to the center of the sheet 5 in the width direction. The second opening 42 and the third opening 43 are provided at symmetrical positions on the left and right sides of the first opening 41. The second opening 42 and the third opening 43 may be provided at positions corresponding to the widthwise edges of the sheet 5.

The first forced blower 51 has a first fan as a blower member provided in the central first opening 41.
The second forced blower 52 has a second fan as a blower member provided in the outer second opening 42.
The third forced blower 53 has a third fan as a blower member provided in the inner third opening 43.
The lower front forced blower 54 has a lower front fan as a blower member provided in the lower front opening 44 on the lower front side.
The first forced blower 51, the second forced blower 52, the third forced blower 53, and the lower front forced blower 54 are connected to the control unit 38, and the direction, flow rate, and stop of intake and exhaust are individually controlled. ..

FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing an example of flow path switching control during heating according to the third embodiment.
FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram of an intake / exhaust pattern of the communication passage 34 in each control state of FIG.
When the passenger compartment air conditioner 10 blows warm air from the lower outlet 20 of the dashboard 6 to heat the passenger compartment 2 (step ST1), the control unit 38 first has or does not have an occupant on the rear seat 5. (Step ST2). The presence or absence of an occupant on the rear seat 5 may be confirmed, for example, by an image of an in-vehicle camera (not shown).

When the occupant is absent from the rear seat 5, the control unit 38 starts heating control for the occupant of the front seat 5 provided with the partition plate 31 (step ST3).
In this heating control, the control unit 38 first executes the control at the start of heating. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 7A, the central first opening 41 and the lower front opening 44 are used as intake air, and the inner third opening 43 and the outer second opening 42 are used as exhaust gas. do.
As a result, a part of the warm air blown out from the lower outlet 20 of the dashboard 6 is taken in from the lower front opening 44 and exhausted from the second opening 42 and the third opening 43 on both the left and right sides. NS.
Further, a part of the warm air exhausted from the second opening 42 and the third opening 43 flows toward the center of the occupant seated on the seat 5 so as to be taken in from the first opening 41.
As a result, while warming the lower limbs of the occupant seated on the seat 5 with warm air, a part of the lower limbs can be raised along the upper body to suppress the blow-up to the face. It is possible to wrap the occupant seated on the seat 5 from the lower limbs to the upper body with warm air without making the blow up to the face uncomfortable.
Even when the room temperature is not warm, the occupants can be warmed as a whole.

After that, when heating proceeds so that the room temperature becomes a stable temperature (step ST4), the control unit 38 switches the control during heating (step ST5). Specifically, as shown in FIG. 7B, the central first opening 41, the inner third opening 43, and the lower front opening 44 are taken as intake air, and the outer second opening 42 is exhausted. And.
As a result, it is possible to preferentially exhaust the warm air to the outside of the occupant while continuing to warm the occupant by a part of the warm air blown out from the outlet 20 on the lower side of the dashboard 6. This warms the cold air near the window of the automobile 1 and makes it difficult for the cold air to reach the occupants. It can suppress the coldness of the door.

When an occupant is present on the rear seat 5, the control unit 38 starts heating control for the occupant of the front seat 5 provided with the partition plate 31 and the occupant of the rear seat 5.
In this heating control, the control unit 38 first executes the control at the start of heating (step ST6). Specifically, as shown in FIG. 7C, the central first opening 41 and the lower front opening 44 are used as intake air, and the inner third opening 43 and the outer second opening 42 are strongly exhausted. And.
As a result, a part of the warm air blown out from the lower outlet 20 of the dashboard 6 is taken in from the lower front opening 44 and strongly exhausted from the second opening 42 and the third opening 43 on both the left and right sides. Will be done. A part of the exhausted warm air flows backward through the left and right sides of the front seat 5, and is sent around the occupant seated on the rear seat 5.
As a result, not only the occupants of the front seat 5 but also the occupants of the rear seat 5 can be warmed up at an early stage by warming air.
Even when the room temperature is not warm, the front and rear occupants can be warmed as a whole.

After that, when heating proceeds so that the room temperature becomes a stable temperature (step ST7), the control unit 38 switches the control during heating (step ST8). Specifically, as shown in FIG. 7 (D), the central first opening 41 is used as intake air, the second and left and right side second openings 42 and third openings 43 are used as exhaust air, and the lower front opening 44 is used. Stop.
As a result, a part of the warm air blown out from the outlet 20 at the upper part of the dashboard 6 can be taken in from the central first opening 41 and exhausted from the second openings 42 and the third openings 43 on both the left and right sides. ..
Therefore, not only the occupants of the front seat 5 but also the occupants of the rear seat 5 can be appropriately warmed by warm air.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing an example of flow path switching control during cooling according to the third embodiment.
FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram of an intake / exhaust pattern of the communication passage 34 in each control state of FIG.
When the passenger compartment air conditioner 10 blows cold air from the lower outlet 20 of the dashboard 6 to cool the passenger compartment 2 (step ST11), the control unit 38 first has or does not have an occupant on the rear seat 5. (Step ST12).

When the occupant is absent from the rear seat 5, the control unit 38 starts cooling control for the occupant of the front seat 5 provided with the partition plate 31.
In this cooling control, the control unit 38 first executes the control at the start of cooling (step ST13). Specifically, as shown in FIG. 9A, the central first opening 41, the second openings 42 on both the left and right sides, and the third opening 43 are used as intake air, and the lower front opening 44 is used as exhaust air. ..
As a result, a part of the cold air blown out from the outlet 20 at the upper part of the dashboard 6 is taken in from the first opening 41, the second opening 42, and the third opening 43, and is taken in from the lower front opening 44. It is exhausted.
This makes it possible to generate a flow of cold air from the toes to the thighs of the occupant seated on the seat 5. This cold air can cool the occupant's lower limbs as a whole.
Even when the room temperature is not warm, the occupant's lower limbs can be cooled as a whole.

After that, when cooling proceeds so that the room temperature becomes a stable temperature (step ST14), the control unit 38 switches the control during cooling (step ST15). Specifically, as shown in FIG. 9B, the lower front opening 44 is used as intake air, and the central first opening 41, the inner third opening 43, and the outer second opening 42 are exhausted. And.
This makes it possible to prevent cold air from accumulating at the feet.

When an occupant is present on the rear seat 5, the control unit 38 starts cooling control for the occupant of the front seat 5 provided with the partition plate 31 and the occupant of the rear seat 5.
In this cooling control, the control unit 38 first executes the control at the start of cooling (step ST16). Specifically, as shown in FIG. 9C, the central first opening 41 is used as intake air, the lower front opening 44 is used as exhaust air, and the third opening 43 and the second opening 42 on both sides are strong. Exhaust.
As a result, a part of the cold air blown out from the outlet 20 at the upper part of the dashboard 6 is taken in from the first opening 41 and strongly exhausted from the second opening 42 and the third opening 43 on both the left and right sides. NS. A part of the exhausted warm air flows backward through the left and right sides of the front seat 5, and is sent around the occupant seated on the rear seat 5.
As a result, not only the occupants of the front seat 5 but also the occupants of the rear seat 5 can be cooled at an early stage by cold air.
Even when the room temperature is not cold, the front and rear occupants can be cooled as a whole.

After that, when the cooling proceeds so that the room temperature becomes a stable temperature (step ST17), the control unit 38 switches the control at the time of cooling (step ST17). Specifically, as shown in FIG. 9D, the lower front opening 44 is used as intake air, and the first opening 41, the second opening 42, and the third opening 43 are used as exhaust gas.
This makes it possible to prevent cold air from accumulating at the feet of the occupants on the front side. Further, the cold air can be sent not only to the occupants of the front seat 5 but also to the occupants of the rear seat 5.

As described above, in the present embodiment, the second opening 42 and the third opening 43 are arranged on both sides of the first opening 41 in the partition plate 31, and the control unit 38 controls the directions and flow rates of these intakes and exhausts. Stops can be controlled individually.
Therefore, a desired air flow can be generated from the knees or thighs to the abdomen of the occupant seated on the seat 5 under the partition plate 31.
Moreover, the communication portion is further provided with a lower front opening 44 that opens under the feet of the occupant seated on the seat 5, and the direction, flow rate, and stop of the intake and exhaust can be individually controlled, so that the occupant seated on the seat 5 can be individually controlled. The desired air flow can be generated for the entire lower limbs from the toes to the thighs.
As a result, a desired air flow can be formed around the lower limbs of the occupant seated on the seat 5, and the air flow leaking upward from the rear side of the trailing edge of the partition plate 31 along the upper body can be adjusted. The entire occupant seated on the seat 5 can be wrapped with a desired air flow.

Further, in the present embodiment, when the heating of the vehicle interior 2 is started, the air taken in from the lower front opening 44 at the feet is exhausted from the second opening 42 and the third opening 43 on both sides. This makes it possible to warm the knees, thighs and abdomen of the occupant seated on the unheated seat 5.
Moreover, the central first opening 41 takes in air. As a result, a part of the air exhausted from the second opening 42 and the third opening 43 is taken in by the central first opening 41 and blown from the abdomen of the occupant seated in the seat 5 along the upper body. The rising airflow can be suppressed.
The same effect can be expected even if the air is exhausted from the central first opening 41 and is taken in from the second openings 42 and the third opening 43 on both sides.

Then, when the heating of the vehicle interior 2 is advanced, the air taken in from the lower front opening 44 at the feet is exhausted from the second opening 42 on the outer side in the vehicle width direction, and the central first opening 41 and the vehicle width are exhausted. It is switched to take in air from the third opening 43 on the inner side of the direction.
Therefore, it is possible to warm the outside in the vehicle width direction in which cold air easily enters, and make it difficult for the cold air to direct to the knees, thighs, and abdomen of the occupant seated on the seat 5. It can be expected to have the effect of keeping the lower limbs of the warm occupant in a comfortable state.

Further, in the present embodiment, when the heating of the vehicle interior 2 is started with the occupant present on the rear side of the seat 5 provided with the partition plate 31, the air taken in from the lower front opening 44 at the feet is taken on both sides. The air is exhausted from the second opening 42 and the third opening 43 of the above, and is taken in from the central first opening 41.
As a result, not only the occupant seated on the unheated seat 5 but also the occupant behind the seat 5 can be warmed.

Then, when the heating of the vehicle interior 2 progresses, the intake and exhaust of the lower front opening 44 at the feet is stopped, the air is exhausted from the second openings 42 and the third openings 43 on both sides, and the first opening in the center. Switch to take in air from unit 41.
As a result, the warm air can be sent to the rear side in a state where the heating of the passenger compartment 2 is advanced and the air conditioner of the passenger compartment 2 blows out the warm air only from the upper air outlet 20.

Further, in the present embodiment, when the cooling of the vehicle interior 2 is started, the air taken in from the first opening 41, the second opening 42 and the third opening 43 is exhausted from the lower front opening 44 at the feet. do.
Therefore, even if the air conditioner in the vehicle interior 2 blows out cold air only from the upper air outlet 20 at the start of cooling, a part of the cold air can be blown out from the feet.
Cold air can be circulated along the lower limbs of the occupant seated on the seat 5.

Then, when the cooling of the vehicle interior 2 progresses, the air taken in from the lower front opening 44 at the feet is switched to be exhausted from the first opening 41, the second opening 42, and the third opening 43.
This will prevent your feet from getting too cold.

Further, in the present embodiment, when the cooling of the vehicle interior 2 is started with the occupant present on the rear side of the seat 5 provided with the partition plate 31, the air taken in from the central first opening 41 is taken in. Air is exhausted from the second opening 42 and the third opening 43 on both sides and the lower front opening 44 at the feet.
Therefore, even if the air conditioner in the vehicle interior 2 blows out cold air only from the upper air outlet 20 at the start of cooling, a part of the cold air can be blown out from the feet.
Cold air can be circulated along the lower limbs of the occupant seated on the seat 5.

Then, when the cooling of the vehicle interior 2 progresses, the air taken in from the lower front opening 44 at the feet is switched to be exhausted from the first opening 41, the second opening 42, and the third opening 43.
This will prevent your feet from getting too cold.

The above embodiments are examples of preferred embodiments of the present invention, but the present invention is not limited thereto, and various modifications or modifications can be made without departing from the gist of the present invention.

For example, in the above embodiment, a plurality of fans whose intake and exhaust can be individually controlled are arranged in a plurality of openings arranged in the vehicle width direction at the rear end portion of the partition plate 31.
In addition to this, for example, one opening long in the vehicle width direction is provided at the rear end portion of the partition plate 31, and a plurality of fans capable of individually controlling intake and exhaust are arranged inside the one opening. May be done. Even in this case, a separate opening will be formed for each fan.

Further, in the above embodiment, a plurality of openings are formed at the rear end portion of the partition plate 31, and the air flow is controlled by the combination of intake and exhaust at the plurality of openings.
In addition to this, for example, the air flow may be controlled by forming one opening at the rear end portion of the partition plate 31 and finely switching the intake and exhaust at this one opening.

1 ... Automobile (vehicle), 2 ... Car room, 3 ... Front room, 4 ... Rear room, 5 ... Seat, 6 ... Dashboard, 7 ... Steering column, 8 ... Steering, 10 ... Car room air conditioner, 11 ... Temperature Sensor, 12 ... Solar radiation sensor, 13 ... Humidity sensor, 14 ... Car room air conditioning control unit, 15 ... Blower fan, 16 ... Compressor, 17 ... Evaporator, 18 ... Heater, 19 ... Air conditioning duct, 20 ... Air outlet, 30 ... Individual Air conditioner (air conditioner), 31 ... partition plate, 34 ... communication passage, 35 ... forced blower, 38 ... control unit, 39 ... timer, 41 ... first opening, 42 ... second opening, 43 ... third Opening, 44 ... lower front opening, 51 ... first forced blower, 52 ... second forced blower, 53 ... third forced blower, 54 ... lower front forced blower

Claims (10)

A continuous passage that opens both ends in the passenger compartment of the vehicle to absorb and exhaust the air in the passenger compartment,
A cover member located above at least knee or thigh multiplication membered seated on the seat provided on the upper side than the seat surface of the seat of the passenger compartment,
Have ,
The front Symbol cover member,
A first opening, which is formed toward the abdomen of the occupant seated on the seat and functions as an opening at one end of the communication passage, is formed.
A second opening is formed toward the abdomen of the occupant seated on the seat and communicates with the communication passage.
The first opening and the second opening are arranged along the vehicle width direction in the cover member, one of which is intake and the other of which is exhaust.
Vehicle air conditioner. A continuous passage that opens both ends in the passenger compartment of the vehicle to absorb and exhaust the air in the passenger compartment,
A cover member provided above the seat surface of the passenger compartment and located above at least the knees or thighs of the occupant seated on the seat.
Have,
The cover member has
A first opening, which is formed toward the abdomen of the occupant seated on the seat and functions as an opening at one end of the communication passage, is formed.
The communication passage is
In the cover member, the second opening and the third opening arranged on both sides of the first opening in the vehicle width direction,
It has a front lower opening that opens near the discharge port of the air conditioner in the passenger compartment provided under the feet of the occupant seated on the seat.
It has a control unit that can individually control the intake and exhaust of the first opening, the second opening, the third opening, and the front lower opening.
Vehicle air conditioner. The control unit
When the heating of the passenger compartment is started, the air taken in from the front lower opening at the feet is exhausted from the central first opening and taken in from the second opening and the third opening on both sides. Or, the air taken in from the front lower opening at the feet is exhausted from the second opening and the third opening on both sides, and is taken in from the first opening in the center.
The vehicle air conditioner according to claim 2. The control unit
When the heating of the vehicle interior is advanced, the air taken in from the front lower opening at the feet is exhausted from the second opening on the outer side in the vehicle width direction, and the first opening in the center and the inner side in the vehicle width direction. Switch to take in air from the 3rd opening,
The vehicle air conditioner according to claim 3. The control unit
When the heating of the passenger compartment is started in a state where the occupant is present on the rear side of the seat provided with the cover member, the air taken in from the front lower opening at the feet is taken into the second openings on both sides and the second opening on both sides. Exhaust from the third opening and intake from the first opening in the center.
The vehicle air conditioner according to any one of claims 2 to 4. The control unit
When the heating of the passenger compartment progresses, the intake and exhaust of the front and lower openings at the feet are stopped, the air is exhausted from the second and third openings on both sides, and the air is taken in from the central first opening. Switch to
The vehicle air conditioner according to claim 5. The control unit
When the cooling of the passenger compartment is started, the air taken in from the first opening, the second opening and the third opening is exhausted from the front lower opening at the feet.
The vehicle air conditioner according to claim 2. The control unit
When the cooling of the passenger compartment is advanced, the air taken in from the front lower opening at the feet is switched to be exhausted from the first opening, the second opening and the third opening.
The vehicle air conditioner according to claim 7. The control unit
When the cooling of the passenger compartment is started with the occupant present behind the seat provided with the cover member, the air taken in from the first opening in the center is taken into the second openings on both sides. And exhaust from the third opening and the front lower opening at the feet.
The vehicle air conditioner according to any one of claims 2 , 7 and 8. The control unit
When the cooling of the passenger compartment is advanced, the air taken in from the front lower opening at the feet is switched to be exhausted from the first opening, the second opening and the third opening.
The vehicle air conditioner according to claim 9.

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