KR20070005010A - Rapid heating, cooling and massaging for car seats using integrated shape memory alloy actuators and thermoelectric devices - Google Patents

Abstract

An apparatus and method for providing controlled heating, cooling and motion, in a device such as an active robotic automobile seat, are disclosed. A shape memory alloy (SMA) element, which changes shape upon application of a temperature change to the SMA element, is coupled to a thermoelectric device. Heat flows through the TED upon application of an electrical current through the TED. The apparatus is operable in one of a plurality of modes. In a first mode, a current is applied through the TED to cause a temperature change in the SMA element to change the shape of the SMA element. In a second mode, a current is applied to the TED to cause heat flow in a space adjacent to the apparatus. By controlling application of current to the TED, controlled motion, heating and cooling are achieved in the seat. ® KIPO & WIPO 2007

Description

RAPID HEATING, COOLING AND MASSAGING FOR CAR SEATS USING INTEGRATED SHAPE MEMORY ALLOY ACTUATORS AND THERMOELECTRIC DEVICES}

The present invention relates to an apparatus and method applied to, for example, active robotic car seats in which contact pressures on the driver's tissues, such as the thighs and buttocks, are actively redistributed to relieve the tired driver.

This application is based on US Provisional Application No. 60 / 565,894, filed April 28, 2004, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

Driving for long periods of time compresses the driver's thighs and buttocks tissue, making them extremely uncomfortable and fatigued. When the driver sits in the driver's seat for a long time, the capillaries may collapse under pressure higher than 30 mm Hg, disrupting blood perfusion and circulation. Moreover, continuous contact with the sheet surface causes heat and moisture to accumulate on the contact surface. Periodically stimulating, properly ventilating and relieving pressure in the tissues that come in contact with the car seat can solve these problems. Automakers are increasing the value of luxury cars by adding more features to their car seats.

Such car seats help to provide a relaxed and comfortable driving experience, especially during long trips. Heating seats are available in many cars, and systems have also been developed to cool and heat the seat surface. Inserting a massage function into the car seat is another new aspect that is gaining popularity.

Drivers who drive for extended periods of time may become tired due to inadequate blood perfusion in the tissue under constant pressure. Stimulation of the tissues, relief of pressure and ventilation are preferred. This reduces driver fatigue and can reduce the risk of accidents caused by driver fatigue. This can generally be accomplished by massage. However, the massage effect should not interfere with driving, and conventional massage is not generally applied to driving a car.

There are three types of active car seats that provide a massage effect. One is a vibration and hand massage massage cushion for a car seat. These consist of a simple DC motor with an eccentric weight to generate vibrations. Due to the nature of the DC motor, the frequency of vibration is high, resulting in rapid vibration movement. However, these rapid vibrations can cause itching and other discomfort when applied for a long time.

Health maintenance massages similar to home massages have been applied to the rear and passenger side seats. These can interfere with driving and therefore do not apply to the driver's side seat. Bulky motors and mechanisms are also undesirable for application to car seats.

There is another type of massage car seat that uses air inflation to form a bump on the surface of the seat. The bumps formed by air expansion are limited to simple round shapes. They are efficient at redistributing pressure, but cannot produce complex movements.

The present invention relates to an apparatus and method applied to, for example, active robotic vehicle seats in which contact pressures on the driver's tissues, such as the thighs and buttocks, are actively redistributed to relieve the tired driver. In order to accommodate the dispersion characteristics of the surface drive and the space limitations in the car seat, a large number of small and light actuators are used and limited to small volumes. Integrated devices, including shape memory alloys SMA and thermoelectric devices TED, are used to provide the necessary drive, high speed heating and cooling functions. These devices are suitable for applications in active car seats because they have a high ratio of power to weight. The matrix structure is used for an actuator drive amplifier capable of driving N ² actuators using only 2N switches, which is suitable for a large degree of freedom system in terms of scalability. In one particular embodiment, the seat 11 uses sixteen SMA actuator units driven in a matrix structure using eight switches. The actuator is housed compactly under the car seat, and forces and displacements are transferred to the flexible seat surface through a novel routing scheme. Lifting movements distributed over the seat surface occur to stimulate the tissue. Complementary distributed sinking movements of the seat surface occur to provide pressure relief and ventilation. Further auxiliary movement of the side flaps of the backrest is also generated.

The present invention provides an active sheet surface causing a wave motion. Wave motion is generated using a strap of fabric placed on the sheet surface. The corrugated movement on the seat surface changes the pressure distribution for the driver and removes heat and moisture at the contact surface.

The present invention also provides an integrated shape memory alloy (SMA) and a thermoelectric device (TED). The thermoelectric device provides heating and cooling to drive and shut down the shape memory alloy actuator, and local heating and cooling for the seat of the present invention.

The present invention includes a shape memory alloy actuator inserted between an upper and a lower thermoelectric device. In one configuration, the thermoelectric device is packaged in a box having an inlet and an outlet for airflow to provide ventilation.

The device operates in a drive mode, a cooling mode and a heating mode. In the drive mode, the shape memory alloy actuator is driven to generate controlled motion in the sheet by generating heat toward the actuator using thermoelectric devices on the top and bottom surfaces of the shape memory alloy actuator. The actuator is stopped by generating heat in the opposite direction.

In the cooling mode, cooling air is delivered to the sheet. First, heat flow is generated using a thermoelectric device such that heat is extracted from the upper surface of the thermoelectric device to the lower surface. Airflow is generated on the upper surface, and the valve is opened so that the outlet of the air channel flowing through the upper surface goes to the seat.

In the heating mode, hot air is delivered to the sheet. First, heat flow is generated using a thermoelectric device such that heat is extracted from the bottom surface of the thermoelectric device to the top surface. Airflow is generated on the upper surface, and the valve is opened so that the outlet of the air channel flowing through the upper surface goes to the seat.

The present invention also provides a lifting and sinking device and method for a sheet. Various lifting movements occur sequentially to alter the pressure distribution on the tissue and remove heat and moisture from the contact surface. Lifting and sinking movements are also generated by a strap lying under the fabric of the seat. Pulling the fabric reduces the length of the strap, which lifts the strap and creates pressure on the body. To produce this movement, side panels are used to hold the edge of the strap. These change from lateral to vertical in the direction of force and displacement. Sinking motion is generated by pulling down certain points on the seat. The sinking movement creates a crater-shaped decompression zone that enhances blood circulation and enhances ventilation at the sinking point.

According to the invention, auxiliary movement in the seat is also generated. The displacement of the SMA wire is further used for the secondary movement of the side flaps for the car back. The side flaps can be used to better support the body, especially when rotating. The side flap is driven by transmitting the motion of the SMA actuator unit from an actuator box located below the car seat. The position of the side flaps is controlled in small individual steps, eliminating the need to control the position of the individual SMA actuator units. Using Kevlar wire and cable housings, routing schemes from the actuator box to the point of drive are also used.

In one aspect, the present invention is directed to an apparatus comprising a shape memory alloy (SMA) element that changes shape when temperature changes. A thermoelectric device TED is coupled to the SMA element. When current is applied through the TED, heat flows through the TED. The device may be operated in one of a plurality of modes. In a first mode, current is applied through the TED to generate a temperature change in the SMA element to change the shape of the SMA element. In a second mode, current is applied to the TED, causing heat to flow in the space adjacent the device.

In one embodiment, in the second mode, the space is heated. Alternatively, in the second mode, the space is cooled. The direction of the current flowing in the TED in the first mode is opposite to the direction of the current flowing in the TED in the second mode.

In one embodiment, the SMA element is disposed between the first TED and the second TED.

In one embodiment, the SMA element is in the form of a wire in thermal communication with the TED, so that when a current is applied to the TED, the wire, which is the SMA element, contracts. In one embodiment, the wire that is the SMA element is connected to at least one drive member to drive the drive member when a current is applied to the TED.

In one embodiment, the device is located in a sheet. In one embodiment, in the second mode, a current applied to the TED heats the sheet. In one embodiment, in the second mode, a current applied to the TED cools the sheet. In one embodiment, the sheet includes a drive member and the SMA element is coupled to the drive member to drive the drive member when current is applied to the TED. In one embodiment, the drive member generates an upward movement in at least a portion of the seat. In one embodiment, the drive member generates a sinking motion in at least a portion of the seat. In one embodiment, a plurality of drive members is coupled to at least one of the SMA elements to drive the drive member when a current is applied to the TED. In one embodiment, the drive moves the sheet in a predetermined pattern.

In one embodiment, the predetermined pattern is waveform motion. In one embodiment, the predetermined pattern is at least one of an upward movement and a sinking movement. The seat may be an automobile seat.

In another aspect, the invention relates to a seat having a plurality of drive regions in which movement can occur. A drive device is coupled to the drive regions, the drive device being coupled to (i) a shape memory alloy (SMA) element whose shape changes when the temperature changes, and (ii) the SMA element so that current can be applied. And a thermoelectric device (TED) that allows heat to flow through. In one embodiment, the sheet can be operated in one of a plurality of modes. In a first mode, a current is applied through the TED to generate a change in temperature in the SMA element, thereby changing the shape of the SMA element and moving the sheet by driving at least one drive region. In the second mode, current is applied to the TED, causing heat to flow through the sheet.

In one embodiment, in the second mode, the sheet is heated. In one embodiment, in the second mode, the sheet is cooled. In one embodiment, the direction of current flowing in the TED in the first mode is opposite to the direction of current flowing in the TED in the second mode. In one embodiment, the SMA element is disposed between the first TED and the second TED. In one embodiment, the SMA element is in the form of a wire in thermal communication with the TED, so that when the current is applied to the TED, the wire, which is the SMA element, is shortened. In one embodiment, the drive member generates an upward movement in at least a portion of the seat. In one embodiment, the drive member generates a sinking motion in at least a portion of the seat. In one embodiment, the drive moves the sheet in a predetermined pattern. In one embodiment, the predetermined pattern is waveform motion. In one embodiment, the predetermined pattern is at least one of an upward movement and a sinking movement.

In one embodiment, the seat is an automobile seat.

In another aspect, the present invention provides a method for forming a shape memory alloy (SMA) element that changes shape when temperature changes, and (ii) is coupled to the SMA element to allow heat to flow when a current is applied. Providing a thermoelectric device (TED), and performing one of two operations in one of two modes. In a first mode, current is applied through the TED to generate a temperature change in the SMA element to change the shape of the SMA element. In a second mode, current is applied to the TED, causing heat to flow in the space adjacent the device.

In one embodiment, in the second mode, the space is heated. In one embodiment, in the second mode, the space is cooled. In one embodiment, the direction of current flowing in the TED in the first mode is opposite to the direction of current flowing in the TED in the second mode.

In one embodiment, the SMA element is disposed between the first TED and the second TED.

In one embodiment, the SMA element is in the form of a wire in thermal communication with the TED, so that when the current is applied to the TED, the wire, which is the SMA element, is shortened. In one embodiment, the wire that is the SMA element is connected to at least one drive member to drive the drive member when a current is applied to the TED.

In one embodiment, the device is located in a sheet. In one embodiment, in the second mode, a current applied to the TED heats the sheet. In one embodiment, in the second mode, a current applied to the TED cools the sheet. In one embodiment, the sheet includes a drive member and the SMA element is coupled to the drive member to drive the drive member when current is applied to the TED. In one embodiment, the drive member generates an upward movement in at least a portion of the seat. In one embodiment, the drive member generates a sinking motion in at least a portion of the seat. In one embodiment, a plurality of drive members is coupled to at least one of the SMA elements to drive the drive member when a current is applied to the TED. In one embodiment, the drive moves the sheet in a predetermined pattern. In one embodiment, the predetermined pattern is waveform motion. In one embodiment, the predetermined pattern is at least one of an upward movement and a sinking movement. The seat is an automobile seat.

In another aspect, the present invention includes a method comprising the steps of: (i) providing a plurality of drive regions in which movement can occur in a seat, and (ii) providing a drive device coupled to the drive regions. It is about. The drive device comprises (i) a shape memory alloy (SMA) element that changes shape as the temperature changes, and (ii) a thermoelectric device (TED) coupled to the SMA element to allow heat to flow when a current is applied. Include. The sheet can be operated in one of a plurality of modes. In a first mode, a current is applied through the TED to generate a change in temperature in the SMA element, thereby changing the shape of the SMA element and moving the sheet by driving at least one drive region. In the second mode, current is applied to the TED, causing heat to flow through the sheet.

In one embodiment, in the second mode, the sheet is heated. In one embodiment, in the second mode, the sheet is cooled. In one embodiment, the direction of current flowing in the TED in the first mode is opposite to the direction of current flowing in the TED in the second mode. In one embodiment, the SMA element is disposed between the first TED and the second TED.

In one embodiment, the SMA element is in the form of a wire in thermal communication with the TED, so that when the current is applied to the TED, the wire, which is the SMA element, is shortened.

In one embodiment, the drive member generates an upward movement in at least a portion of the seat. In one embodiment, the drive member generates a sinking motion in at least a portion of the seat.

In one embodiment, the drive moves the sheet in a predetermined pattern. In one embodiment, the predetermined pattern is waveform motion. In one embodiment, the predetermined pattern is at least one of an upward movement and a sinking movement.

In one embodiment, the seat is an automobile seat.

Accordingly, the present invention relates to a novel method for car seat design for alleviating fatigue caused by long time operation. In order to enhance blood circulation and maintain skin temperature and moisture at the desired level, active control of the sheet surface is achieved using shape memory alloy (SMA) wire actuators. Since SMA actuators have a high power-to-weight ratio, a plurality of SMA actuators can be embedded in a limited space.

These and other objects, features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the more detailed description of the preferred aspects of the invention shown in the accompanying drawings, wherein like reference numerals refer to like parts in the various figures. The drawings are not necessarily to scale, focusing on explaining the principles of the invention.

1 is a schematic diagram of an active seat surface for varying the pressure distribution for a person, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of the active sheet surface of the present invention shown in FIG. 1 showing surface waves propagating to remove hot humid air. FIG.

3 is a schematic diagram of an integrated SMA and TED device used in an active car seat in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

4 is a schematic diagram of an active car seat of the present invention in drive mode, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

5 is a schematic diagram of an active sheet of the present invention in a cooling mode, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

6 is a schematic diagram of an active car seat of the present invention in a heating mode, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

7 is a schematic diagram illustrating a lifting motion according to an embodiment of the present invention.

8 is a schematic view showing the shape of the lifting exercise mechanism.

9 is a curve showing the change in lifting height H when W varies from 10 inches to 14 inches.

10 is a schematic diagram illustrating a sinking motion according to an embodiment of the present invention.

11 is a diagram schematically illustrating the location of a downward pull point to form a decompression region for a sinking motion of the present invention, in accordance with one particular embodiment.

12 is a schematic diagram of an uncovered active car seat according to one embodiment of the present invention, showing one embodiment of the lifting exercise mechanism of the present invention.

FIG. 13 shows the car seat with the lid of FIG. 12 removed, showing the sinking point of the present invention. FIG.

14 is a diagram illustrating a model of one embodiment of an actuator box according to one embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 15 is a view showing a part of the active car seat of the present invention mounted on the actuator box of the present invention.

Fig. 16 is a schematic view of the robotic car seat of the present invention covered with automobile upholstery.

17 is a detailed view of the hardware used for the actuator box.

FIG. 18 is a diagram showing details of the routing performed by the assembly of the motorcycle brake cable housings and noodles.

19 is a diagram illustrating a structure of a matrix drive system.

20 is a view showing a locking mechanism used to remove such relaxation.

FIG. 21 is a diagram showing a method of using a pulley to increase the displacement generated by the actuator.

22 is a perspective view of a continuous pulley according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 23 is a diagram illustrating a menu of controller software.

24 is a schematic diagram showing a portion of a thermoelectric device (TED) used in the integrated SMA / TED actuator device of the present invention.

25 is a schematic representation of a partially cut assembled thermoelectric device.

26 is a schematic diagram of one thermoelectric device according to the present invention.

27 is a schematic representation of an integrated SMA / TED actuator in accordance with the present invention.

Figure 28 is a graph of the ratio of heat added to the hot side of the TED to the hot side temperature according to the present invention.

29 is a schematic diagram of the integrated SMA / TED actuator of the present invention in drive mode.

30 is a schematic diagram of the integrated SMA / TED actuator of the present invention in a fast cooling mode.

31 is a schematic diagram of the integrated SMA / TED actuator of the present invention in a heating mode.

1 is a schematic diagram of an active seat surface 11 for changing the pressure distribution for a person, according to an embodiment of the invention. As shown in the figure, the body of the user shown by the human tissue 10 is supported at various different contact areas so that the pressed tissue area can be altered. The figure shows waveform patterns of valleys and ridges that can be changed periodically. Referring to the before and after observation, the movement of the wavy patterns of the valleys and the ridges is observed.

FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of the active sheet surface 11 of the present invention shown in FIG. 1 showing surface waves propagating to remove hot humid air. To remove heat and moisture in the contact area, the air gap between the valleys and the floor is relatively large. Also, when the waveform propagates as shown in FIG. 2, high moisture and temperature air captured between human skin and bone can be transferred laterally and removed from the contact surface. This enhances the ventilation effect.

Pressure relief and ventilation are two important functional requirements to enhance long-term comfort and eliminate fatigue. The surface driving method directly controls the contact surface to meet the functional requirements. To implement the surface driving method, a new type of actuator system according to the present invention is used. The distributed nature of surface driving requires large degrees of freedom. In view of the limited space for the actuator, the actuator has a high energy density, ie compact and powerful. For this purpose, shape memory alloy (SMA) actuators are used to drive various points on the sheet surface.

An apparatus is provided for integrating a shape memory alloy actuator with a thermoelectric device to generate a wave motion on the seat surface and to drive it for other purposes related to a car seat or chair. The apparatus includes a shape memory alloy actuator disposed between two thermoelectric devices. The thermoelectric device provides heating and cooling to drive and stop the shape memory alloy actuator, and heating and cooling for the chair.

3 is a schematic diagram of an integrated SMA and TED device used in an active car seat 11 according to an embodiment of the invention. The device includes multiple axes of SMA actuators disposed at right angles to the airflow inlets 16, 17 and outlets 18, 19. Air flows through the top and bottom of the SMA / TDA device. The valve 20 is moved to control the direction of airflow passing through the top surface of the seat 11. As shown in FIG. 3, in the drive mode, the valve 20 is positioned such that air flowing to the inlet 16, 17 flows only to the outlet 18. The thermoelectric devices 21, 22 are mounted to face each other in the sheet 11 as shown. The wire shaped SMA actuator 26 is inserted between the thermoelectric devices 21, 22 in thermal contact with the surfaces of the thermoelectric devices 21, 22. TED generates a temperature difference between the upper surface and the lower surface when an electric potential is applied across the upper surface and the lower surface, and heat flows between the surfaces. When a potential in the first polarity direction is applied, heat flows in one direction from one side to the other side. The potential applied across the device in the opposite polarity direction causes the heat to flow in the opposite direction. The SMA actuator 26 is driven when both the TEDs 21 and 22 at the top and bottom of the SMA actuator 26 generate heat towards the actuator. The heat applied to the actuator 26 inserted between the TEDs causes the shape of the SMA actuator 26 to change by increasing or decreasing the length of the SMA actuator. This drive action is coupled throughout the active seat and controlled to generate sinking, lifting, waves and other motion as needed in the seat 11.

4 is a schematic diagram of the active car seat 11 of the present invention in drive mode, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. The SMA material reaches a temperature much higher than the austenite finish temperature using the illustrated sandwich shape, ie, the SMA actuator 26 inserted between the TEDs. By applying an electric potential to the TEDs 21 and 22 in the polarity direction where heat flows from the upper and lower TEDs 21 and 22 to the SMA actuators 26, the temperature of the SMA actuators is sufficient to provide the required sheet drive action. Is raised. The SMA actuator 26 is stopped by inverting the polarity of the potential applied to the TED to move the heat collected in the center of the device toward the outer surface of the device.

The apparatus of the present invention can be used to generate cold or hot air for local cooling and heating of the seat 11 without driving the actuator. 5 is a schematic diagram of the active car seat 11 of the present invention in a cooling mode, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. By generating heat flow using the thermoelectric device 21, heat flows from the top surface of the integrated SMA / TED device to the bottom surface as indicated by arrow 27. Air entering from the upper surface of the inlet 16 is cooled and sent to the upper surface of the car seat 11 for local cooling. Even if the top surface is sufficiently cooled, since the temperature of the shape memory alloy is kept below the austenite starting temperature, sufficient cooling is achieved without driving the actuator. In the cooling mode, air enters the upper surface of the seat through the inlet 16 and flows along the upper surface of the car seat 11 to cool the car seat 11. Next, cooling air exits through the outlet 19. The valve 20 is set to allow air to exit through the outlet 19. Air also enters the lower region of the car seat 11 through the inlet 17 and flows along the heated lower surface of the integrated SMA / TED device to remove heat from the interior of the seat 11. Air carrying heat exits the seat 11 through the outlet 18.

6 is a schematic diagram of the active car seat 11 of the present invention in a heating mode, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. The heating mode is basically the opposite of the cooling mode in function. That is, in the heating mode, the TEDs 21 and 22 are driven by a potential applied to cause heat to flow from the bottom to the top of the integrated SMA / TED device, as indicated by arrow 27. Heat is transferred from the lower surface to the upper surface through the TEDs 21 and 22 to generate a high temperature region on the upper surface. Air entering the seat 11 at the inlet 16 is heated for local heating of the seat. The valve 20 is set again to allow warm air to exit the seat 11 at the outlet 19.

The massage function of the active car seat of the present invention is unique in that it does not interfere with driving. The massage function provides pressure redistribution and enhanced ventilation through active control of the seat surface. Redistribution of pressure does not interfere with the driver's driving ability. Many points of the seat 11 are driven wide enough to cover the entire lower part of the body. The instrument cannot be felt when the massage is not performed. The actuator mechanism is light enough to be installed in a car where the weight of the system is directly related to fuel efficiency. The actuator mechanism, even light, has enough power to pressurize the body to provide sufficient stimulation.

According to the invention, two complementary movements fulfill the basic requirements of pressure redistribution and ventilation. These are generally referred to as lifting and sinking movements. The purpose of the lifting exercise is to redistribute the pressure on the driver's thighs and buttocks, and the purpose of the sinking exercise is to provide ventilation. By combining these movements to form a large gap between the seat and the body surface, the ventilation effect is increased. Both movements occur by pulling the ends of the straps of the cable or fabric located on the lower foam of the car seat 11. The cable is connected to the integrated SMA / TED device such that selective and controlled drive of the integrated SMA / TED device provides the desired lifting and sinking motion. The system also matches the shape of the human body. Thus, the instrument cannot be felt by the driver when not in use.

7 is a schematic diagram illustrating a lifting motion according to an embodiment of the present invention. 7 shows in schematic sectional view the thigh 10 of the driver on the instrument to provide lifting. The mechanism of the invention pulls the cable or strap 30, preferably at both ends of the strap 30, through the driving of the integrated SMA / TED device, in order to cause lifting movements on the driver's legs and thighs. . When the fabric is pulled up, the strap lifts up, creating pressure on the body. To generate this movement, side panels are used to hold the edge of the strap. These change the direction of force or displacement from lateral to vertical.

8 is a schematic view showing the shape of the lifting exercise mechanism. The height h of the side 31, the width of the thigh, and the width of the chair all contribute to the lifting height when the fabric is pulled to a constant length. Referring to FIG. 8, the strap 30 is assumed to be a straight line and remains a straight line with a width of W during inter-operation. The actual shape of the strap will be the shape of the buttocks or thighs of the person sitting on it, but the straight line of the strap is considered an imaginary line connecting the two end points of contact between the strap and the human body. In one embodiment, the lifting height H is limited to less than one inch to prevent the lifting movement from interfering with the driver's driving ability. Given the required lifting height H, the required displacement d of the SMA actuator is given by the following equation.

(1)

(One)

Where L is the width of the chair, h is the height of the side bars, and W is the width of the thighs or hips of the person sitting on the chair. Based on the average human measurements and from the requirement that the lifting motion should not affect driving, the design used thigh width was 12 inches and the required lifting height was selected to be 0.75 inches. From the given specifications, the required actuator displacement is 0.89 inches. This is achieved using an SMA wire 12.82 inches long.

Since the width of the thighs or buttocks varies from person to person, the lifting height varies as a function of W. 9 is a curve showing the change in lifting height H when W varies from 10 inches to 14 inches. The lifting height becomes smaller when the thigh width becomes larger. Specifically, when the width varies from 10 inches to 14 inches, the lifting height varies from 0.82 inches to 0.49 inches.

10 is a schematic diagram illustrating a sinking motion according to an embodiment of the present invention. 10 schematically shows the driver's thigh 10 on the instrument to provide sinking of the surface of the seat 11. 10 shows a sinking motion produced by pulling down a certain point of the seat 11. The sinking motion forms a crater-shaped decompression region 33 that enhances blood circulation and ventilation at that point. In one particular embodiment, two reduced pressure areas 33 are used on the thighs, and three reduced pressure areas 33 are used in the middle of the buttocks where ventilation is most effective. The mechanism of the present invention pulls the cable or strap attached under the surface of the sheet in the decompression region 33 through the driving of the integrated SMA / TED device.

FIG. 11 is a diagram schematically showing the position of the downward pull point for forming the decompression region 33 for the sinking motion of the present invention, according to one particular embodiment. In this particular embodiment, five sinking points are shown. It will be appreciated that any number of sinking points may be used in accordance with the present invention. The downward pull point is connected to the SMA actuator in the actuator box 40 via a wire or cable 41. The displacement provided by the drive of the SMA actuator is transmitted to the downward pull point via a wire or cable 41. In one embodiment, these wires or cables 41 are kevlar wires that are connected to the actuator box 40 through a turnbuckle. The tensile force of the kevlar wire can be controlled by the turnbuckle, preventing it from loosening.

12 is a schematic diagram of an uncovered active car seat 11 according to one embodiment of the invention, showing one embodiment of the lifting exercise mechanism of the invention. 12 shows the placement of the strap 30 arranged on the seat 11 for lifting movement. In one particular embodiment, the strap includes six 3/8 inch wide straps made of polyethylene fiber to generate lifting motion. The strap is attached by turnbuckles to the Kevlar wire 41 coming from the actuator box 40. The tensile force of the kevlar wire can be controlled by the turnbuckle, preventing it from loosening. The other end of the strap is attached to another length adjustment mechanism that can be adjusted according to the various weights of the person sitting on the seat.

FIG. 13 is a view showing the uncovered car seat 11 of FIG. 12 in which the sinking point of the present invention is shown. As shown in FIG. 13, the sinking points are dispersed on the base of the car seat 11. The sinking point is formed by passing the Kevlar wire into the base foam of the sheet 11 and connecting the Kevlar wire to the SMA actuator 26 in the actuator box 40. When the actuator is driven, the wire pulls down the sinking point, forming a crater-shaped recess on the base foam. This relieves pressure and enhances ventilation.

14 is a view showing a model of one embodiment of the actuator box according to an embodiment of the present invention, Figure 15 is a part of the active car seat 11 of the present invention mounted on the actuator box 40 of the present invention. It is a figure which shows.

According to the invention, auxiliary movements are also provided in the active car seat 11 of the invention. In accordance with the auxiliary movement, the side flap in the upper back of the seat is moved in an angle range of about 30 degrees. Individual movement of the flap is obtained in small steps. SMA actuators are used to move the flaps. This requires substantial displacement for the individual SMA actuator units. The instrument utilizes, in one embodiment, four SMA actuator units pairwise. A latch mechanism with a locking function is used to counter the limited amount of displacement provided by the SMA actuator.

Thus, according to the present invention, active control of the car seat surface is achieved. According to the invention, the actuator unit is received in a compact actuator box 40 under the car seat 11, and a cable or wire is used to transfer the force and displacement to the drive point on the seat surface. Distributed lifting and sinking movements on the surface of the car seat are achieved by pressure redistribution to enhance blood circulation and maintain skin temperature and moisture at desirable levels.

Fig. 16 is a schematic view of the robotic car seat 11 of the present invention covered with automobile upholstery. The robotic seat 11, in one embodiment, comprises an actuator box 40 having sixteen SMA actuators and mounted under the car seat 11. Routing mechanism 43 transmits the force and displacement from actuator box 40 to a desired drive point in the seat.

17 is a detailed view of the hardware used for the actuator box 40. As mentioned above, the actuator box 40 includes sixteen SMA actuators. Each actuator includes a plurality of SMA wires attached to a printed circuit board (PCB). SMA wires are mechanically parallel, but electrically composed of a mixture of series and parallel connections. If all wires are electrically connected in parallel, the overall resistance of the actuator will be too low. This makes it difficult to design the drive circuit. Thus, the SMA wire is electrically configured to maintain the resistance of the actuator at 1-10 ohms. By electrically reconfiguring the wires, all the necessary electrical wiring can be made at one end, simplifying the design of mechanical parts at the moving end of the actuator.

In one embodiment, each tendon cable or wire is 12.5 inches in length, and each wire has a diameter of 0.015 inches or 0.01 inches. Each tendon cable provides a force of 110-220 N and a 12 mm stroke. Six actuators are designed for the force requirement of 36 kgf for use in lifting motions. All other actuators are designed for the force requirement of 10 jgf. The actuator is cooled by an array of fans disposed below it. The biasing spring is connected to the ends of each actuator to ensure that the actuators return to their own length when the current is turned off. The pulley system is attached to the end of the moving PCB to amplify the limited displacement provided by the SMA. Kevlar wires are used to transmit the forces and displacements generated by the actuators to the respective instruments. Kevlar has five times the breaking strength of steel wire but is much lighter.

In one embodiment, each of the 16 actuators comprises 12 to 36 actuator wires or tendon cables, depending on the requirements of the force. For lifting motion actuators, there are 36 0.38 mm diameter SMA wires or tendon cables, providing 72 kgf of force, 36 kgf by pulleys. The displacement due to stress is 20 mm. The actuator operates at 1 ohm and 16 amps. Actuators for sinking motion and auxiliary flap motion include 24 0.25 mm diameter SMA wires or tendon cables. A force of 22.5 kgf is generated, 11.25 kgf due to the pulley. The displacement is 20 mm. The actuator operates at 10 ohms and 2 amps.

FIG. 18 is a diagram showing details of the routing performed by the assembly of the motorcycle brake cable housings and noodles. Kevlar wires are included in non-extensible cable housings to ensure complete transmission of the displacement generated by the SMA wires.

In order to make the system more compact and efficient in terms of power related resources, in one embodiment, a matrix drive system is used. Instead of having a dedicated wire and power amplifier for each actuator, the wire and drive amplifier are shared among the actuators. 19 is a diagram illustrating a structure of a matrix drive system. Robotic car seats do not require all actuators to be turned on at the same time, so it is reasonable to use a matrix drive structure. 2N switches and wires are used to drive the N ² actuators. By driving the appropriate pair of switches in each column and each row of the matrix, any actuator in the network can be turned on at any time. By turning on the switches for the mth row and the nth column, the actuators on the corresponding row and column, denoted by A _mn , will be turned on. For example, when both the third row and second column switches of the matrix are connected to a power source, only actuator A will be turned on.

The wiring for the 16 SMA actuators for the actuator box 40 for the car seat uses a matrix drive system drive system. By using a matrix drive system, the number of drive amplifiers has been reduced from 16 to 8. Wiring was also simplified by connecting eight wires to each actuator and the closest actuator, instead of connecting sixteen wires from each actuator to the drive circuit one by one. Although the actuators are not arranged in a matrix structure, the actuators are electrically connected in a matrix structure. The actuators are arranged side by side, and eight wires connect all 16 actuators from each actuator to the other actuator, forming an excellent chained structure. Four wires correspond to wires in a row, and the other four wires correspond to wires in a column. The wires are physically connected to all actuators, but each actuator is electrically connected to one row of wires and one column of wires. For example, actuator A ₁₂ is electrically connected to the wires in the first row and the wires in the second column. Thus, by turning on the switches for row 1 and column 2, actuator A ₁₂ will be driven.

Thus, active control of the car seat surface using the SMA actuator unit is realized. The actuator unit is housed in a compact actuator box 40 under the car seat 11 and the cable is used to transfer forces and displacements to a drive point on the seat surface. The SMA actuator unit is driven using a stretchable matrix structure that uses 2N switches to drive N ² actuator units.

According to the invention, the drive is made by a soft fabric and the fabric is disposed on the flexible cushion. The depth of cushion change under the load of another person changes the initial position of the actuator, causing the actuator to slack. Due to this relaxation, when the SMA wire is driven, the displacement is used to reduce the relaxation instead of being used to drive the fabric actuator. In order to eliminate this problem of relaxation, a locking mechanism is used. 20 is a view showing a locking mechanism used to remove such relaxation. Each fabric actuator strap has a breaking pad 51 attached to an end thereof, which breaking pad is attached to a spring 53. The spring 53 is attached to the fixed frame. When a person sits on the seat, different displacements of all the fabric actuator straps occur. The lock rod is locked by the locking knob 55 after a person sits in the chair to provide the initial position of the fabric actuator strap 30 by securing one end without loosening at the actuator end.

In one particular embodiment, the displacement of each actuator is 20 mm. This displacement is converted into an upward lifting motion and a downward pull motion. In order to increase the displacement for a larger pressing effect, the displacement can be doubled, so that the displacement is increased to 40 mm. FIG. 21 is a diagram showing a method of using a pulley to increase the displacement generated by the actuator.

Another alternative is to use a continuous pulley. 22 is a perspective view of a continuous pulley according to an embodiment of the present invention. By using a continuous pulley, the rate of increase of displacement can be controlled by varying the ratio of the diameters of the hubs through which each actuator passes. For example, by setting the ratio of R2 to R1 to 3, the displacement can be multiplied by three times the displacement generated by the actuator. These components generate larger displacements while using smaller spaces.

In one embodiment, the side bars are separated from the sheet foam and located outside of the foam. Alternatively, the structure for supporting the actuator may be included inside the foam. Molding of the foam can be performed by a structure contained in the casting mold.

Software for controlling the car seat actuator was developed using the measurement studio for Microsoft Visual Basic 6.0 and Visual Studio 6.0. Fig. 23 is a diagram illustrating a menu of controller software. To enable the experiment of the car seat actuator, there are two types of movements that can be generated by the controller. According to one embodiment, firstly, each actuator is driven separately by specifying the actuator to be driven. Actuators A1 to A4 are designated for driving the flap mechanism, actuators C2, C3 and D1 to D4 are designated for lifting movement, D4 is the actuator closest to the front end of the chair, and C2 is the lifting movement. The innermost actuator for The actuators B2, B3, C1 are actuators for sinking movements arranged in the center of the seat, and the actuators B C are actuators for sinking movements in the left and right legs. The period of the actuator can be determined by changing the value assignment period, and the duty can be changed by sliding the duty ratio slide bar. Next, the On-time and Off-time of the selected actuator are shown in the text box. After selecting the actuator, setting the On-time and Off-time, the operation can be initiated by pressing "Start". The selected actuator will run until the "Stop" button is pressed.

Three sets of continuous waveform motion can also be generated using software. The flap motion can be generated by checking the Move-in or Move out button and then the Flap motion button. On-time and off-time can also be controlled. The continuous waveform of the lifting motion is generated by pressing the Lift Wave Motion button and setting the on-time factor and off-time factor. Similarly, sinking waveform motion is generated by pressing Sink Wave Motion and setting On-time and Off-time.

24 is a schematic diagram showing a portion of a thermoelectric device (TED) used in the integrated SMA / TED actuator device of the present invention. The TED includes a plurality of Peltier elements 61, 62 electrically connected in series by the conductor 63. Each Peltier element includes a thermoelectric material that receives heat flow in a particular direction when current in a particular direction is applied. In the present invention, the N-type Peltier element 62 is alternately connected in series with the P-type Peltier element 61. As shown in FIG. 24, a voltage is applied across the positive terminal 65 and the negative terminal 64 of the example device shown. As a result, electron current flows from the cathode terminal 64 through the Peltier elements 61 and 62 to the anode terminal 65. In addition, a hole current flows from the positive terminal 65 through the Peltier elements 61 and 62 to the negative terminal 64. As shown in the figure, in the N-type Peltier material, heat flows in the direction of the positive current, and in the P-type Peltier material, the heat flows in the direction of the electron current. As a result, as a voltage with the polarity indicated for the terminals 64, 65 is applied, heat is released on the top of the device and absorbed at the bottom of the device. Therefore, the upper surface has a higher temperature than the lower surface. When the polarity of the voltage applied to the terminals 64, 65 is reversed, heat flows in the opposite direction, i.e. the upper surface of the device is cooled and the lower surface is heated.

25 is a schematic representation of a partially cut assembled thermoelectric device. As shown in the figure, the device comprises an array of P-type 61 and N-type 62 Peltier “pellets” or elements that are connected together by a conductor 63. The upper ceramic substrate 66 is formed on the device, and the lower ceramic substrate 67 is formed on the lower surface of the device.

As described above, the integrated SMA / TED actuator of the device uses a TED or Peltier device to apply heat to the shape memory alloy material of the SMA actuator so that the shape of the material changes, and as a result, the active car of the present invention. It provides the driving action used by the seat. In order to provide the required temperature to be applied to the SMA actuator, a certain amount of heat needs to be transferred by the TED. In one embodiment, the single-axis SMA actuator must provide a force of 700 N and a displacement of 12 mm. From these requirements, the mass of the SMA actuator can be calculated according to the following equation.

Area = force / maximum stress of SMA = 700 N / 200 MPa = 3.5 mm ²

Length = displacement / 0.04 = 300mm

Volume = Area * Length = 1.05 * 10 ^-6 m ³

Mass (S _SMA ) = volume * density = 10.5 * 10 ^-6 * 6450kg = 6.77 g

The heat required to raise the temperature of the SMA to 100 ^o C is calculated according to the following equation.

_Column = Cp * △ T * M _SMA + △ h * M _SMA

Cp: Specific Heat = 450J / kg ^o C

ΔT: temperature increase = 75 ^o C

Δh: latent heat of deformation = 32,000 J / kg

From these calculations, it is determined that the necessary heat is given by E _SMA = 356.4 J / axis in order to raise the temperature of the SMA actuator to 100 ^° C.

26 is a schematic diagram of one thermoelectric device 21, 22 according to the invention. TED's heat transfer calculation is based on the following equation.

The ratio of heat Q _C extracted from the low temperature side is given by the following equation.

Q _C = S * I * T _C -I ² R / 2- (T _H -T _C ) / θ _TED

The ratio of heat Q _H added to the high temperature side is given by the following equation.

Q _H = S * I * T _C + I ² R / 2- (T _H -T _C ) / θ _TED

In the above formulas,

R: electrical resistance of TED

I: Current

S: Seebeck coefficient [volts / kelvin]

S = S _m * 2N _c

N _c : Number of pn element pairs in TED

S _m : Seebeck coefficient of material

S _m = S ₀ + S ₁ * T + S ₂ * T

S ₀ = 2.2224 * 10 ^-5

S ₁ = 9.306 * 10 ^-7

S ₂ = -9.905 * 10 ^-10

_TED : TED thermal resistance [Kelvin / Watt]

θ _TED = λ / 2K _m N _c

λ = L / A: shape factor

K _m : Thermal conductivity of the material [Watts / Kelvin * cm]

27 is a schematic representation of an integrated SMA / TED actuator in accordance with the present invention. As shown in the figure, the device includes an upper thermoelectric device 21 and a lower thermoelectric device 22. The TEDs 21 and 22 are positioned to face each other via the shape memory alloy (SMA) actuator wire 26. Heat is applied to the SMA actuator 26 by TED to change the length of the SMA actuator 26 to drive. As indicated by arrow 79, TEDs 21 and 22 are deflected to provide heat flow toward the inner surfaces 72 and 74 and heat away from the outer surfaces 71 and 73, respectively. As a result, heat is applied to the SMA actuator 26 to change the length of the SMA actuator 26 to generate the required pulling motion. In one embodiment, at least inner surfaces 72 and 74 of TEDs 21 and 22 are each made of ceramic material.

In one embodiment, the SMA actuator wire is about 7 mm X 300 mm. In one embodiment, this requires that the size of the TED be 10 mm x 300 mm.

The total required heat is given by

E _needed = E _SMA + E _ceramic + E _{miscellaneous} = (1156.4) J

In this expression,

E _SMA : Heat required to drive the SMA = 356.4J

E _ceramic : The heat required to raise the temperature of the TED's ceramic plate = 800 J

E _{miscellaneous} : other heat losses (via side openings, etc.)

FIG. 28 is a graph of the ratio Q _{H of} heat added to the hot side to the hot side temperature when I = 10 A, R = 3.26 ohms, T = 25 ^o C, T = 25 ^o C to 100 ^o C. FIG. The ratio of heat depends on temperature, T rises from 25 ^o C to 100 ^o C, and T _C is assumed to be constant at 25 ^o C. Since the SMA actuator is inserted between the two elements, the total heat transfer rate is twice the calculated value. In one embodiment, the average Q _H is about 600 watts.

29 is a schematic diagram of the integrated SMA / TED actuator of the present invention in drive mode. As indicated by the arrows, in the drive mode, the TEDs 21 and 22 are deflected to transfer heat to the inner surface and the SMA actuator wire 26 is located. As a result, the SMA actuator 26 is heated to change its shape. As shown, the temperature of the low temperature on the outer surface of the TEDs 21 and 22 is about 25 ^° C., and the temperature of the high temperature on the inner surface of the TED is about 100 ^° C. Since heat flows from the TED (21, 22) to the SMA actuator 26, the temperature of the actuator 26 is high enough for the SMA actuator 26 to change shape and perform a desired drive, for example 100 ^° C. to be.

30 is a schematic diagram of the integrated SMA / TED actuator of the present invention in a fast cooling mode. As shown in the figure, in the fast cooling mode, the TEDs 21 and 22 are deflected to cause heat to flow from the upper surfaces 71 and 74 to the lower surfaces 72 and 73. As a result, the entire net flow of heat is in a direction away from the top surface of the device, cooling the sheet 11. As a result, the temperature at the top surface 71 of the device is about 5 ^° C., the temperature at the center of the device is about 35 ^° C., and the temperature at the bottom 73 of the device is about 81 ^° C. Thus, if both TEDs are deflected such that heat flows toward the bottom of the device, fast cooling is realized.

As described above, the ratio of heat extracted from the low temperature side is given by the following equation.

Q _C = S * I * T _C -I ² R / 2- (T _H -T _C ) / θ _TED

Referring to FIG. 30, the heat Q _C1 extracted from the cold side 71 of the TED 21 is given by the following equation.

Q _C1 = S * I * T _C -I ² R / 2- (T _M -T _C ) / θ _TED

The heat extracted from the cold side 74 of the TED 22 is given by the following equation.

Q _C2 = S * I * T _M -I ² R / 2- (T _H -T _M ) / θ _TED

Q _{C !} = Q _C2

Since Q _C depends on T _H and T _C , the temperature difference between T _C and T _M is not equal to the temperature difference between T _M and T _H. For I = 5A, a cooling power of about 54 Watts = 170 Btu / hour can be obtained by a single axis.

As shown in FIG. 30, heat flows toward the SMA actuator 26 in the TED 21, while heat flows away from the SMA actuator 26 in the TED 22. As a result, the temperature at the actuator 26 is slightly intermediate, for example 35 ^° C. Since this intermediate temperature in the actuator 26 is relatively low, the actuator 26 does not change shape and no drive mode is formed. Thus, according to the present invention, in the cooling mode, the drive mode does not occur.

31 is a schematic diagram of the integrated SMA / TED actuator of the present invention in a heating mode. As shown in the figure, in the heating mode, the TEDs 21 and 22 are deflected so that heat flows from the lower surfaces 72 and 73 to the upper surfaces 71 and 74. As a result, the temperature at the top surface 71 of the device is about 81 ^° C., the temperature at the center of the device is about 35 ^° C., and the temperature at the bottom surface 73 of the device is about 5 ^° C. Thus, both TEDs are deflected so that heat flows toward the upper surface of the device, so that heating is realized.

As described above, the ratio of heat added to the high temperature side is given by the following equation.

Q _H = S * I * T _C + I ² R / 2- (T _H -T _C ) / θ _TED

Referring to FIG. 31, the heat Q _H1 added to the hot side 74 of the TED 22 is given by the following equation.

Q _H1 = S * I * T _C + I ² R / 2- (T _M -T _C ) / θ _TED

The heat added to the hot side 71 of the TED 21 is given by the following equation.

Q _H2 = S * I * T _M -I ² R / 2- (T _H -T _M ) / θ _TED

Q _H1 = Q _H2

For I = 5A, a heating power of about 135 Watts can be obtained by a single axis.

As shown in FIG. 31, heat flows toward the SMA actuator 26 in the TED 22, while heat flows away from the SMA actuator 26 in the TED 21. As a result, the temperature at the actuator 26 is slightly intermediate, for example 35 ^° C. Since this intermediate temperature in the actuator 26 is relatively low, the actuator 26 does not change shape and no drive mode is formed. Thus, according to the invention, in the heating mode, no drive mode occurs.

While the invention has been particularly shown and described with reference to the preferred embodiments, those skilled in the art will understand that various changes in shape and details may be made without departing from the spirit of the invention as defined in the appended claims. .

Claims (60)

Shape memory alloy (SMA) elements whose shape changes when the temperature changes, and A thermoelectric device (TED) coupled to the SMA element to allow heat to flow when a current is applied Including; Can be operated in one of a plurality of modes, In a first mode, a current is applied through the TED to generate a temperature change in the SMA element to change the shape of the SMA element, In a second mode, a current is applied to the TED such that heat flows in the space adjacent to the device. Device characterized in that. The method of claim 1, In the second mode, the space is heated. The method of claim 1, In the second mode, the space is cooled. The method of claim 1, And the direction of the current flowing in the TED in the first mode is opposite to the direction of the current flowing in the TED in the second mode. The method of claim 1, Wherein the SMA element is disposed between a first TED and a second TED. The method of claim 1, And the SMA element is in the form of a wire in thermal communication with the TED, such that when the current is applied to the TED, the wire, the SMA element, contracts. The method of claim 6, And wherein said wire, said SMA element, is connected to at least one drive member to drive said drive member when a current is applied to said TED. The method of claim 1, Wherein the device is located in a seat. The method of claim 8, In the second mode, a current applied to the TED heats the sheet. The method of claim 8, In the second mode, a current applied to the TED cools the sheet. The method of claim 8, The seat comprises a drive member, wherein the SMA element is coupled to the drive member to drive the drive member when current is applied to the TED. The method of claim 11, And the drive member generates an upward movement in at least a portion of the seat. The method of claim 11, And the drive member generates a sinking motion in at least a portion of the seat. The method of claim 11, And a plurality of drive members coupled to at least one of the SMA elements for driving the drive member when a current is applied to the TED. The method of claim 14, And the drive moves the sheet in a predetermined pattern. The method of claim 15, The predetermined pattern is a waveform motion. The method of claim 15, And the predetermined pattern is at least one of an upward movement and a sinking movement. The method of claim 17, And said seat is an automobile seat. A plurality of drive regions in which movement can occur, and A drive device coupled to the drive regions In the sheet comprising: The drive device, Shape memory alloy (SMA) elements whose shape changes when the temperature changes, and A thermoelectric device (TED) coupled to the SMA element to allow heat to flow when a current is applied Including; The sheet can be operated in one of a plurality of modes, In a first mode, a current is applied through the TED to generate a temperature change in the SMA element, thereby changing the shape of the SMA element to drive the sheet by driving at least one drive region, In a second mode, a current is applied to the TED, causing heat to flow through the sheet. Characterized in that the sheet. The method of claim 19, In the second mode, the sheet is heated. The method of claim 19, In the second mode, the sheet is cooled. The method of claim 19, And the direction of the current flowing in the TED in the first mode is opposite to the direction of the current flowing in the TED in the second mode. The method of claim 19, And the SMA element is disposed between the first TED and the second TED. The method of claim 19, The SMA element is in the form of a wire in thermal communication with the TED, characterized in that when the current is applied to the TED, the wire that is the SMA element is contracted. The method of claim 19, And the drive member generates an upward movement in at least a portion of the seat. The method of claim 19, And the drive member generates a sinking motion in at least a portion of the seat. The method of claim 19, And said drive moves said sheet in a predetermined pattern. The method of claim 27, And said predetermined pattern is a wave motion. The method of claim 27, The predetermined pattern is a sheet, characterized in that at least one pattern of the upward movement and the sinking movement. The method of claim 19, And said seat is a car seat. Providing a shape memory alloy (SMA) element that changes shape as the temperature changes, Providing a thermoelectric device (TED) coupled to the SMA element to allow heat to flow when a current is applied, and Includes performing one of two actions in one of two modes, In a first mode, a current is applied through the TED to generate a temperature change in the SMA element to change the shape of the SMA element, In a second mode, a current is applied to the TED such that heat flows in the space adjacent to the device. Characterized in that the method. The method of claim 31, wherein In the second mode, the space is heated. The method of claim 31, wherein In the second mode, the space is cooled. The method of claim 31, wherein And the direction of the current flowing in the TED in the first mode is opposite to the direction of the current flowing in the TED in the second mode. The method of claim 31, wherein And the SMA element is disposed between a first TED and a second TED. The method of claim 31, wherein The SMA element is in the form of a wire in thermal communication with the TED, characterized in that when the current is applied to the TED, the wire that is the SMA element is contracted. The method of claim 36, And wherein said wire, said SMA element, is connected to at least one drive member to drive said drive member when a current is applied to said TED. The method of claim 31, wherein Characterized in that the method is carried out in a sheet. The method of claim 38, In the second mode, a current applied to the TED heats the sheet. The method of claim 38, In the second mode, a current applied to the TED cools the sheet. The method of claim 38, The sheet includes a drive member, wherein the SMA element is coupled to the drive member to drive the drive member when current is applied to the TED. The method of claim 41, wherein And the drive member generates an upward movement in at least a portion of the seat. The method of claim 41, wherein And wherein the drive member generates a sinking motion in at least a portion of the seat. The method of claim 41, wherein And a plurality of drive members coupled to at least one of the SMA elements for driving the drive member when a current is applied to the TED. The method of claim 44, And said drive moves said sheet in a predetermined pattern. The method of claim 45, The predetermined pattern is a waveform motion. The method of claim 45, And wherein the predetermined pattern is at least one of an upward movement and a sinking movement. The method of claim 47, And said seat is a car seat. In the seat, providing a plurality of drive regions in which movement can occur, and Providing a drive device coupled to the drive regions Including; The drive device, Shape memory alloy (SMA) elements whose shape changes when the temperature changes, and A thermoelectric device (TED) coupled to the SMA element to allow heat to flow when a current is applied Including; The sheet can be operated in one of a plurality of modes, In a first mode, a current is applied through the TED to generate a temperature change in the SMA element, thereby changing the shape of the SMA element to drive the sheet by driving at least one drive region, In a second mode, a current is applied to the TED, causing heat to flow through the sheet. Characterized in that the method. The method of claim 49, In the second mode, the sheet is heated. The method of claim 49, In the second mode, the sheet is cooled. The method of claim 49, And the direction of the current flowing in the TED in the first mode is opposite to the direction of the current flowing in the TED in the second mode. The method of claim 49, And the SMA element is disposed between a first TED and a second TED. The method of claim 49, The SMA element is in the form of a wire in thermal communication with the TED, characterized in that when the current is applied to the TED, the wire that is the SMA element is contracted. The method of claim 49, And the drive member generates an upward movement in at least a portion of the seat. The method of claim 49, And the drive member generates a sinking motion in at least a portion of the seat. The method of claim 49, And said drive moves said sheet in a predetermined pattern. The method of claim 57, The predetermined pattern is a waveform motion. The method of claim 57, And wherein the predetermined pattern is at least one of an upward movement and a sinking movement. The method of claim 49, And said seat is a car seat.

Images