WO2015171901A1 - Climate control assembly - Google Patents

Climate control assembly Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2015171901A1
WO2015171901A1 PCT/US2015/029701 US2015029701W WO2015171901A1 WO 2015171901 A1 WO2015171901 A1 WO 2015171901A1 US 2015029701 W US2015029701 W US 2015029701W WO 2015171901 A1 WO2015171901 A1 WO 2015171901A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
seat assembly
fluid
climate controlled
fluid stream
seat
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Ceased
Application number
PCT/US2015/029701
Other languages
English (en)
French (fr)
Inventor
John D. LOFY
Masahiko INABA
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Gentherm Inc
Original Assignee
Gentherm Inc
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Priority to JP2016564972A priority Critical patent/JP6672170B2/ja
Priority to DE112015002175.2T priority patent/DE112015002175T5/de
Priority to CN201580024389.6A priority patent/CN106458070B/zh
Priority to CN202010966848.5A priority patent/CN112224100B/zh
Priority to KR1020227033664A priority patent/KR102637609B1/ko
Priority to US15/309,749 priority patent/US10160356B2/en
Application filed by Gentherm Inc filed Critical Gentherm Inc
Priority to KR1020167034643A priority patent/KR102449808B1/ko
Priority to US14/937,624 priority patent/US10457173B2/en
Publication of WO2015171901A1 publication Critical patent/WO2015171901A1/en
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Priority to US16/226,104 priority patent/US10647232B2/en
Ceased legal-status Critical Current

Links

Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60N—SEATS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR VEHICLES; VEHICLE PASSENGER ACCOMMODATION NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • B60N2/00—Seats specially adapted for vehicles; Arrangement or mounting of seats in vehicles
    • B60N2/56—Heating or ventilating devices
    • B60N2/5678—Heating or ventilating devices characterised by electrical systems
    • B60N2/5692—Refrigerating means
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60N—SEATS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR VEHICLES; VEHICLE PASSENGER ACCOMMODATION NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • B60N2/00—Seats specially adapted for vehicles; Arrangement or mounting of seats in vehicles
    • B60N2/56—Heating or ventilating devices
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60N—SEATS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR VEHICLES; VEHICLE PASSENGER ACCOMMODATION NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • B60N2/00—Seats specially adapted for vehicles; Arrangement or mounting of seats in vehicles
    • B60N2/56—Heating or ventilating devices
    • B60N2/5607—Heating or ventilating devices characterised by convection
    • B60N2/5621—Heating or ventilating devices characterised by convection by air
    • B60N2/5635—Heating or ventilating devices characterised by convection by air coming from the passenger compartment
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60N—SEATS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR VEHICLES; VEHICLE PASSENGER ACCOMMODATION NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • B60N2/00—Seats specially adapted for vehicles; Arrangement or mounting of seats in vehicles
    • B60N2/56—Heating or ventilating devices
    • B60N2/5607—Heating or ventilating devices characterised by convection
    • B60N2/5621—Heating or ventilating devices characterised by convection by air
    • B60N2/5642—Heating or ventilating devices characterised by convection by air with circulation of air through a layer inside the seat
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60N—SEATS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR VEHICLES; VEHICLE PASSENGER ACCOMMODATION NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • B60N2/00—Seats specially adapted for vehicles; Arrangement or mounting of seats in vehicles
    • B60N2/56—Heating or ventilating devices
    • B60N2/5607—Heating or ventilating devices characterised by convection
    • B60N2/5621—Heating or ventilating devices characterised by convection by air
    • B60N2/565—Heating or ventilating devices characterised by convection by air sucked from the seat surface
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60N—SEATS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR VEHICLES; VEHICLE PASSENGER ACCOMMODATION NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • B60N2/00—Seats specially adapted for vehicles; Arrangement or mounting of seats in vehicles
    • B60N2/56—Heating or ventilating devices
    • B60N2/5607—Heating or ventilating devices characterised by convection
    • B60N2/5621—Heating or ventilating devices characterised by convection by air
    • B60N2/5657—Heating or ventilating devices characterised by convection by air blown towards the seat surface
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F25—REFRIGERATION OR COOLING; COMBINED HEATING AND REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS; HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS; MANUFACTURE OR STORAGE OF ICE; LIQUEFACTION SOLIDIFICATION OF GASES
    • F25B—REFRIGERATION MACHINES, PLANTS OR SYSTEMS; COMBINED HEATING AND REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS; HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS
    • F25B21/00—Machines, plants or systems, using electric or magnetic effects
    • F25B21/02—Machines, plants or systems, using electric or magnetic effects using Peltier effect; using Nernst-Ettinghausen effect

Definitions

  • This disclosure relates to climate control, and, more particularly, to a climate control assembly.
  • Temperature modified air for environmental control of living or working space is typically provided to relatively extensive areas, such as entire buildings, selected offices, or suites of rooms within a building.
  • the entire vehicle In the case of vehicles, such as automobiles, the entire vehicle is typically cooled or heated as a unit.
  • more selective or restrictive air temperature modification is desirable.
  • an automotive vehicle exposed to the summer weather where the vehicle has been parked in an unshaded area for a long period of time, can cause the vehicle seat to be very hot and uncomfortable for the occupant for some time after entering and using the vehicle, even with normal air conditioning.
  • the seat occupant's back and other pressure points may remain sweaty while seated.
  • climate control systems can include a distribution system comprising a combination of channels and passages formed in the cushion of the seat.
  • a thermal module thermally conditions the air and delivers the conditioned air to seat channels and passages. The conditioned air flows through the channels and passages to cool or heat the space adjacent the surface of the vehicle seat.
  • the climate controlled seat assembly can include a thermoelectric device having a main side and a waste side.
  • the climate controlled seat assembly can include a main heat exchanger coupled to the main side of the thermoelectric device for generating a conditioned fluid stream from a first fluid stream.
  • the climate controlled seat assembly can include a waste heat exchanger coupled to the waste side of the thermoelectric device for generating a waste fluid stream from a second fluid stream.
  • the climate controlled seat assembly can include a first fluid path in the seat assembly that directs the first fluid stream and the conditioned fluid stream to a seating surface designed to contact an occupant.
  • the climate controlled seat assembly can include a second fluid path that directs a second fluid stream from a location proximate the seating surface to the waste heat exchanger and the waste fluid stream away from the occupant.
  • the first fluid path can draw the first fluid stream from a location spaced from the seating surface. In some embodiments, the first fluid path can draw the first fluid stream from a location opposite the occupant. In some embodiments, the second fluid path can exhaust the waste fluid stream to location spaced from the seating surface. In some embodiments, the second fluid path can exhaust the waste fluid stream to a location opposite the occupant.
  • the climate controlled seat assembly can include a first pumping device fluidically coupled to at least one of the conditioned fluid path and the waste fluid path.
  • the climate controlled seat assembly can include a second pumping device, wherein the first pumping device is fluidically coupled to the conditioned fluid path and the second pumping device is fluidically coupled to the waste fluid path.
  • the first pumping device can include a rotor having a plurality of fins and a motor coupled to the rotor, a first inlet in fluid communication with a first outlet, and a second inlet in fluid communication with a second outlet.
  • the first inlet and the first outlet of the first pumping device can be fluidically coupled to the conditioned fluid path and the second inlet and second outlet can be fluidically coupled to the waste fluid path.
  • the main heat exchanger can be positioned between the first inlet and the first outlet.
  • the waste heat exchanger can be positioned between the second inlet and the second outlet.
  • a direction of flow through the first inlet and a direction of flow through the first outlet can be generally parallel.
  • the first outlet can be positioned at a top side of the first pumping device.
  • a direction of flow through the second inlet and a direction of flow through the second outlet can be generally orthogonal.
  • the second outlet can be positioned at a left and/or right side of the first pumping device.
  • the first pumping device can include a first ducting fluidically coupling the first inlet and the first outlet, wherein a direction of flow through the first outlet can be generally orthogonal to a direction of flow through the first ducting.
  • the first pumping device can include a second ducting fluidically coupling the second inlet and the second outlet, wherein a direction of flow through the second outlet can be generally orthogonal to a direction of flow through the second ducting.
  • the seating surface designed to contact an occupant can be a top surface of a seat.
  • the first pumping device can be positioned below the top surface of the seat.
  • the seating surface designs to contact an occupant can be a front surface of a backrest.
  • the first pumping device can be positioned behind the front surface of the backrest.
  • the climate controlled seat assembly can include channels along the top surfaces of the side bolsters from which the second fluid stream is withdrawn.
  • the second fluid stream can be withdrawn at or proximate a seat area of the seat.
  • the conditioned fluid stream can be directed to the occupant at or proximate a thigh area of the seat.
  • the seat can include a first fluid distribution system at or proximate a seat area of the seat.
  • the first fluid distribution system can include channels extending laterally outwards towards sides of the seat.
  • the first fluid distribution system can include an intermediate layer positioned between the channels and an overlying layer of the seat, the layer designed to maintain a gap between the channels and the overlying layer.
  • the overlying layer can be a spacer fabric positioned between the intermediate layer and a cushion of the seat.
  • the seat can include a second fluid distribution system at or proximate a thigh area of the seat.
  • the second fluid distribution system can include channels extending laterally outwards towards sides of the seat.
  • the second fluid distribution system can include an intermediate layer positioned between the channels and an overlying layer, the layer designed to maintain a gap between the channels and the overlying layer.
  • the overlying layer can be a cushion of the seat.
  • the second fluid stream can be withdrawn at or proximate a lumbar region of the backrest.
  • the conditioned fluid stream can be directed to the occupant at or proximate an upper back area of the backrest.
  • the backrest can include a first fluid distribution system at or proximate a lumbar region of the backrest.
  • the first fluid distribution system can include channels extending laterally outwards towards sides of the backrest.
  • the backrest can include a second fluid distribution system at or proximate an upper back area of the backrest.
  • the second fluid distribution system can include channels extending laterally outwards towards sides of the backrest.
  • the second fluid distribution system can include an intermediate layer positioned between the channels and an overlying layer, the layer designed to maintain a gap between the channels and the overlying layer.
  • the overlying layer can be a cushion of the seat
  • the climate controlled seat assembly can include a thermoelectric device having a main side and a waste side.
  • the climate controlled seat assembly can include a main heat exchanger coupled to the main side of the thermoelectric device for generating a conditioned fluid stream from a first fluid stream.
  • the climate controlled seat assembly can include a waste heat exchanger coupled to the waste side of the thermoelectric device for generating a waste fluid stream from a second fluid stream.
  • the conditioned fluid stream can be directed to a location proximate a seating surface designed to contact an occupant.
  • the second fluid stream can be withdrawn from a location proximate the seating surface designed to contact an occupant.
  • the climate controlled seat assembly can include channels along the top surfaces of the side bolsters from which the second fluid stream is withdrawn.
  • the seating surface designed to contact an occupant is a top surface of the seat.
  • the seating surface designed to contact an occupant is a front surface of the backrest.
  • the first fluid stream is withdrawn from a location opposite the occupant.
  • the second fluid stream can be withdrawn at or proximate a seat area of the seat.
  • the conditioned fluid stream can be directed to the occupant at or proximate a thigh area of the seat.
  • the seat can include a first fluid distribution system at or proximate a seat area of the seat.
  • the first fluid distribution system can include channels extending laterally outwards towards sides of the seat.
  • the first fluid distribution system can include an intermediate layer positioned between the channels and an overlying layer of the seat, the layer designed to maintain a gap between the channels and the overlying layer.
  • the overlying layer can be a spacer fabric positioned between the intermediate layer and a cushion of the seat.
  • the seat can include a second fluid distribution system at or proximate a thigh area of the seat.
  • the second fluid distribution system can include channels extending laterally outwards towards sides of the seat.
  • the second fluid distribution system can include an intermediate layer positioned between the channels and an overlying layer, the layer configured to maintain a gap between the channels and the overlying layer.
  • the overlying layer can be a cushion of the seat.
  • the second fluid stream can be withdrawn at or proximate a lumbar region of the backrest.
  • the conditioned fluid stream can be directed to the occupant at or proximate an upper back area of the backrest.
  • the backrest can include a first fluid distribution system at or proximate a lumbar region of the backrest.
  • the first fluid distribution system can include channels extending laterally outwards towards sides of the backrest.
  • the backrest can include a second fluid distribution system at or proximate an upper back area of the backrest.
  • the second fluid distribution system can include channels extending laterally outwards towards sides of the backrest.
  • the second fluid distribution system can include an intermediate layer positioned between the channels and an overlying layer, the layer designed to maintain a gap between the channels and the overlying layer.
  • the overlying layer can be a cushion of the seat.
  • the climate controlled seat assembly can include a pumping device.
  • the pumping device can include a rotor having a plurality of fins, a motor coupled to the rotor, a first inlet in fluid communication with a first outlet, and a second inlet in fluid communication with a second outlet.
  • the main heat exchanger can be positioned between the first inlet and the first outlet of the pumping device and the waste heat exchanger can be positioned between the second inlet and the second outlet of the pumping device.
  • a direction of flow through the first inlet and a direction of flow through the first outlet can be generally parallel.
  • the first outlet can be positioned at a top side of the pumping device.
  • a direction of flow through the second inlet and a direction of flow through the second outlet can be generally orthogonal.
  • the second outlet can be positioned at a left and/or right side of the first pumping device.
  • the first pumping device can include a first ducting fluidically coupling the first inlet and the first outlet, wherein a direction of flow through the first outlet can be generally orthogonal to a direction of flow through the first ducting.
  • the first pumping device can include a second ducting fluidically coupling the second inlet and the second outlet, wherein a direction of flow through the second outlet can be generally orthogonal to a direction of flow through the second ducting.
  • the first inlet of the pumping device can be fluidically coupled one of the main heat exchanger and the waste heat exchanger and the second outlet can be fluidically coupled to the other of the main heat exchanger and the waste heat exchanger.
  • the thermal module can include a thermoelectric device comprising a main side and a waste side.
  • the thermal module can include a main heat exchanger having a plurality of fins coupled to the main side of the thermoelectric device for generating a conditioned fluid.
  • the thermal module can include a waste heat exchanger having a plurality of fins coupled to the waste side of the thermoelectric device.
  • the plurality of fins of the main heat exchanger and the plurality of fins of the waste heat exchanger can be designed such that flow through the main heat exchanger and the waste heat exchanger is oblique or perpendicular. In some embodiments, the flow through the main heat exchanger and the waste heat exchanger can be substantially perpendicular. In some embodiments, the flow through the main heat exchanger and the waste heat exchanger can be perpendicular.
  • a method of conditioning a seat assembly can include the step of producing a conditioned fluid stream from a first fluid stream.
  • the method can include the step of directing the conditioned fluid stream to a support surface designed to contact an occupant.
  • the method can include the step of withdrawing a second fluid stream from a location proximate the support surface.
  • the method can include the step of producing a waste fluid stream from the second fluid stream. In some embodiments, the method can include exhausting the waste fluid stream to a location spaced from the seating surface. In some embodiments, the step of producing a conditioned fluid stream includes passing the first fluid stream through a first heat exchanger. In some embodiments, the method can include pulling the first fluid stream from a location spaced from the seating surface.
  • directing the conditioned fluid stream to a support surface designed to contact an occupant can include directing the conditioned fluid stream at or proximate a thigh area of a seat of the seat assembly. In some embodiments, directing the conditioned fluid stream to a support surface designed to contact an occupant can include directing the conditioned fluid stream at or proximate an upper back area of a backrest of the seat assembly. In some embodiments, withdrawing a second fluid stream from a location proximate the support surface can include withdrawing the second fluid stream at or proximate a seat area of a seat of the seat assembly. In some embodiments, withdrawing a second fluid stream from a location proximate the support surface can include withdrawing the second fluid stream at or proximate a lumbar region of a backrest of the seat assembly.
  • FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a vehicle seat assembly that can include a climate control system according to the present disclosure.
  • FIG. 2 is a side view of the vehicle seat assembly of FIG. 1.
  • FIG. 2A is a cross-sectional view of the vehicle seat assembly of FIG. 1 taken along line 2A-2A of FIG. 2.
  • FIG. 2B is a cross-sectional view of the vehicle seat assembly of FIG. 1 taken along line 2B-2B of FIG. 2.
  • FIG. 3 is a front view of the vehicle seat assembly of FIG. 1 with a covering of the seat assembly removed.
  • FIG. 4 is a schematic illustration of the vehicle seat assembly and climate control system of FIG. 1.
  • FIG. 5 is a schematic illustration of an embodiment of a vehicle seat assembly and climate control system according to the present disclosure.
  • FIG. 6 is a schematic illustration of another embodiment of a vehicle seat assembly and climate control system according to the present disclosure.
  • FIG. 7 is a schematic illustration of another embodiment of a vehicle seat assembly and climate control system according to the present disclosure.
  • FIG. 8 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a thermal module without a housing according to the present disclosure.
  • FIG. 9 is a top perspective view of an embodiment of a thermal module with a housing according to the present disclosure.
  • FIG. 10 is a bottom perspective view of the thermal module of FIG. 9.
  • FIG. 11A is a top view of an embodiment of a seat assembly and climate control system having a first configuration of openings according to the present disclosure.
  • FIG. 1 IB is a top view of an embodiment of a seat assembly and climate control system having a second configuration of openings according to the present disclosure.
  • FIG. 11C is a close up view of a thermal module and seat assembly of FIG.
  • FIG. 12A is a top view of another embodiment of a seat assembly and climate control system according to the present disclosure.
  • FIG. 12B close up view of a thermal module and seat assembly of FIG.
  • FIG. 12C is a top view of another embodiment of a seat assembly and climate control system according to the present disclosure.
  • FIG. 12D is a top view of the embodiment of FIG. 12C with cushioning placed over the thermal modules.
  • FIG. 13 is a schematic illustration of an embodiment of a seat assembly with climate control components contained therein according to the present disclosure.
  • FIG. 14 is a top view of an embodiment of a seat assembly and climate control system having an embodiment of a fluid distribution unit according to the present disclosure.
  • FIG. 15 is a top view of an embodiment of a seat assembly and climate control system having another embodiment of a fluid distribution unit according to the present disclosure.
  • FIG. 16 is a top view of an embodiment of a seat assembly and climate control system having another embodiment of a fluid distribution unit according to the present disclosure.
  • FIG. 17 is a bottom view of an embodiment of a seat assembly and climate control system according to the present disclosure.
  • FIG. 18 is a top view of an embodiment of a seat frame according to the present disclosure.
  • FIG. 19A is a bottom view of an embodiment of a seat frame having an integrally formed first fluid distribution component and second fluid distribution component according to the present disclosure.
  • FIG. 19B is a bottom view of the seat frame of FIG. 19A highlighting the first fluid distribution component.
  • FIG. 19C is a bottom view of the seat frame of FIG. 19A highlighting the second fluid distribution component.
  • FIG. 20A is a bottom view of an embodiment of a seat frame having a separately formed first fluid distribution component and second fluid distribution component according to the present disclosure with the first fluid distribution component highlighted.
  • FIG. 20B is a bottom view of the seat frame of FIG. 20A highlighting the second fluid distribution component.
  • FIG. 21 is a schematic illustration of an embodiment of a vehicle seat assembly and climate control system with a dual-mode pumping device according to the present disclosure.
  • FIG. 22 is a schematic illustration of an embodiment of a dual-mode pumping device according to the present disclosure.
  • FIG. 23 is a schematic illustration of another embodiment of a vehicle seat assembly and climate control system with a dual-mode pumping device according to the present disclosure.
  • FIG. 24 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a dual-mode pumping device according to the present disclosure.
  • FIG. 25 is a side, cross-sectional view of the dual-mode pumping device of FIG. 24.
  • FIG. 26 is a top, exploded view of the dual-mode pumping device of FIG.
  • FIG. 27 is a bottom, exploded view of the dual-mode pumping device of FIG. 24.
  • FIG. 28 is a top view of another embodiment of a seat and climate control system according to the present disclosure.
  • FIG. 29 is a top view of the seat and climate control system of FIG. 28 with a layer included.
  • FIG. 30 is a top view of the seat and climate control system of FIG. 29 with a spacer fabric included.
  • FIG. 31 is a top view of the seat and climate control system of FIG. 30 with additional cushioning.
  • FIG. 32 is a bottom view of the seat and climate control system of FIG. 28.
  • FIG. 33 is a bottom view of the seat and climate control system of FIG. 28 with additional components.
  • FIG. 34 is a schematic, cross-sectional view of the seat and climate control system of FIG. 31.
  • FIG. 35 is a front view of another embodiment of a backrest and climate control system according to the present disclosure.
  • FIG. 36 is a front view of the backrest and climate control system of FIG. 35 with additional cushioning.
  • FIG. 37 is a rear view of the backrest and climate control system of FIG.
  • FIG. 38 is a rear view of the backrest and climate control system of FIG. 37 with additional components.
  • FIG. 39 is a front, view of another embodiment of a seat assembly and climate control system.
  • FIGS. 1 and 2 are front perspective and side views a climate controlled seat assembly 30 can in certain arrangements be used with one or more of the features and arrangements described with reference to Figures 6-22 below.
  • the seat assembly 30 comprises a seat portion 32 and a backrest 34.
  • the seat assembly 30 also includes a climate control system 36, which will be described in more detail below with reference to FIG. 4.
  • the occupant's seat When an occupant sits in the seat assembly 30, the occupant's seat is located generally in a seat area 40 of the seat or seat portion 32 and at least a portion of their legs are supported by a thigh area 42 of the seat portion 32.
  • a rear end 44 of the seat portion 32 is coupled to a bottom end 46 of the backrest or backrest portion 34.
  • the occupant's back contacts a front surface 48 of the backrest portion 34 and the occupant's seat and legs contact a top surface 50 of the seat portion 32.
  • the surfaces 48, 50 cooperate to support the occupant in a sitting position.
  • the seat assembly 30 can be configured and sized to accommodate occupants of various size and weight.
  • the seat assembly 30 is similar to a standard automotive seat. However, it should be appreciated that certain features and aspects of the embodiments and arrangements of this disclosure may also be used in a variety of other applications and environments. For example, certain features and aspects of the seat assembly 30 and the embodiments and arrangements of this disclosure may be adapted for use in other vehicles, such as, for example, an airplane, a boat, or the like.
  • certain features and aspects of the of the embodiments and arrangements of this disclosure can also be adapted for use in stationary environments, such as, for example, a chair, a sofa, a theater seat, a mattress, topper for a mattress, and/or an office seat that is used in a place of business and/or residence and/or any other surface on which an occupant can be supported and on which thermal conditioning can be desirable.
  • Certain features and aspects of the of the embodiments and arrangements of this disclosure can also be adapted for use in applications where it is desired to cool an enclosed or partially enclosed space, such as, for example, a cupholder or a heated and/or cooled bin.
  • the backrest 34 has a front side 54, a rear side 56, a top side 58 and a bottom side 60.
  • the backrest 34 includes a pair of sides 57, 59 extending between the top side 58 and bottom side 60 for providing lateral support to the occupant of the seat assembly 30.
  • a lumbar region 62 of the backrest 34 is generally positioned between the sides 57, 59 of the backrest 34 near the seat portion 32.
  • the seat portion 32 has a front side 64, a rear side 66, a top side 68 and a bottom side 70.
  • the seat portion 32 also includes a pair of sides 69, 71, which extending from the rear side 66 and the front side 64 for providing lateral support to the occupant of the seat assembly 30.
  • the seat assembly 30 is secured to a vehicle by attaching the bottom side 70 of the seat portion 32 to the floor of a vehicle.
  • FIGS. 2A and 2B are cross-sectional views of a portion of the backrest 34 and seat portion 32 respectively.
  • the backrest 34 and seat portion 32 are generally formed by a cushion 72, which is covered with an appropriate covering material 74 (e.g., upholstery, leather or leather like materials).
  • the cushion 72 is typically supported on a metallic frame (not shown) although other materials, such as plastics and composites, can also be used.
  • springs may be positioned between the frame and the cushion 72.
  • the frame provides the seat assembly 30 with structural support while the cushion 72 provides a soft seating surface.
  • the covering material 74 provides an aesthetic appearance and soft feel to the surface of the seat assembly 30.
  • FIG. 3 illustrates the seat assembly 30 of FIGS. 1 and 2 with the covering 74 removed thereby exposing the cushion 72.
  • the cushion 72 can be a typical automotive seat cushion foam or other types of materials with suitable characteristics for providing support to an occupant. Such materials include, but are not limited to, closed or open-celled foam.
  • the backrest 34 of the seat assembly 30 is provided with a backrest fluid distribution system 76A.
  • the distribution system 76A comprises an inlet passage 78A through from the front side 54 to the rear side 56 of the seat cushion 72. (See also FIG. 2A).
  • the distribution system 76 A also includes at least one, and often, a plurality of channels 80A, which extend from the inlet passage 78A.
  • the cushion 72 may be formed from a typical automotive cushion material, such as, for example, an open or closed cell foam.
  • the cushion 72 is made of foam that is pre-molded to form the passage 78A and/or the channels 80A.
  • portions of the cushion 72 can have structural characteristics which differ from the structural characteristics of other portions of the cushion 72. For example, certain portions of the cushion 72 can be more compliant than other portions of the cushion 72.
  • portions of the cushion 72 positioned between channels 80A and the covering material 74 can be a porous material which can desirably facilitate the ventilation function of the seat, that is, allows air to be pushed or pulled through the top surface into the channels within the seat assembly 30.
  • portions of the cushion 72 positioned between channels 80A and the covering material 74 can be a smoothing layer.
  • the portions of the cushion 72 positioned between channels 80A and the covering material 74 can be attached to the covering layer 74, for example by adhesive and/or sewing.
  • the passage 78A and/or the channels 80A may be formed by cutting foam out of the seat cushion 72.
  • the passage 78A and/or channels 80A can be formed using a plenum or other similar device having one or more air passageways for distributing the air flow through the cushion 72.
  • the channels can be filled with air permeable material e.g., spacer fabric that can provide support while still allowing the flow of air through the material.
  • the channels 80A can be covered by a scrim 81 A to define distribution passages 82 A for transporting air through the seat assembly 30.
  • the scrim 81 A includes one or more openings 84 A for delivering air to and/or from the distribution passages 82 A.
  • the scrim 81 A may be formed of a material similar to the cushion 72.
  • the scrim 81 A is attached to the cushion 72 in a manner that limits leakage between the scrim 81 A and cushion 72 thereby directing the flow of air through the openings 84 A.
  • an adhesive is used to attach the scrim 81 A to the cushion 72.
  • a heat stake or fasteners may be used.
  • a distribution layer 86A can be disposed between the scrim 81 A and the seat covering 74.
  • the distribution layer 86A can spread the air flowing through the openings 84 A along the lower surface of the covering 74.
  • the covering 74 may be formed from an air-permeable material.
  • the covering 74 comprises an air-permeable fabric made of natural and/or synthetic fibers.
  • the covering can be formed from a leather, or leather-like material that is provided with small openings or apertures.
  • the seat 32 of the seat assembly 30 can be provided with a seat cushion fluid distribution system 76B.
  • the seat distribution system 76B also comprises an inlet passage 78B through from the top side 68 to the bottom side 70 of the seat cushion 72.
  • the seat distribution system 76B also includes at least one, and often, a plurality of channels 80B, which extend from the inlet passage 78B. These channels 80B may be configured as described above.
  • the channels 80B are also covered by a scrim 8 IB to define distribution passages 82B for transporting air through the seat assembly 30.
  • the scrim 8 IB includes one or more openings 84B for delivering air to and/or from the distribution passages 82B.
  • the scrim 8 IB may be formed of a material similar to the cushion 72 and is preferably attached to the cushion 72 in a manner that limits leakage between the scrim 8 IB and cushion 72.
  • a distribution layer 86B can be disposed between the scrim 8 IB and the seat covering 74.
  • conditioned air can be delivered to the distribution passages 82A, 82B through the inlet passages 78A, 78B.
  • the air then flows through the openings 84 A, 84B and into the distribution layer 86 A, 86B.
  • the air can then be directed through the covering 74 to a space adjacent to the front surface 48 of the backrest 34 or the top surface 50 of the seat 32.
  • the climate control system 36 can also be to remove air, which is adjacent to the front surface 48 of the backrest 34 and/or the top surface 50 of the seat 32.
  • the air can be withdrawn through the covering 74 and into the distribution layers 86 A, 86B.
  • the air can then be withdrawn through the openings, distribution passages and/or outlet passages (not shown) provided in the seat 32.
  • conditioned air is delivered to at least portions of the seat assembly 30 and air is removed from other portions of the seat assembly 30.
  • conditioned air can be delivered to the distribution passages 82A, 82B through the inlet passages 78 A, 78B.
  • the conditioned air then flows through the openings 84 A, 84B and into the distribution layer 86A, 86B where it is directed through the covering 74 to a space adjacent to the front surface 48 of the backrest 34 and/or the top surface 50 of the seat 32.
  • air can be subsequently or simultaneously removed from another set of distribution passages through a set of outlet passages. The air can be withdrawn through the covering 74 and into another set of distribution layers.
  • the distribution layer from which air is withdrawn can be the same distribution layer 86A, 86B to which conditioned air is delivered. This can be advantageous in removing conditioned air which has been heated, or cooled, by the occupant thus ensuring a constant stream of freshly conditioned air to the occupant.
  • the distribution layer from which air is withdrawn can be fluidically separated from the distribution layer 86 A, 86B.
  • the distribution layer used for withdrawal of air can be located along or proximate an outer periphery of the seating surfaces (e.g., the seat bolsters such as sides 57, 59, 69, 71, an area proximate the front side 64 and/or rear side 66 of the seat portion 32, an area proximate the top side 58 and/or bottom side 60 of the backrest 34).
  • the seating surfaces e.g., the seat bolsters such as sides 57, 59, 69, 71, an area proximate the front side 64 and/or rear side 66 of the seat portion 32, an area proximate the top side 58 and/or bottom side 60 of the backrest 34.
  • the distribution systems 76 A, 76B for the backrest 34 and the seat 32 may be modified in several different manners.
  • the shape and/or number of channels 80A, 80B may be modified or combined.
  • the scrim 81 A, 8 IB and/or distribution passages 82 A, 82B may be combined and/or replaced with other components configured for similar functions.
  • a separate insert may be positioned within the channels 80A, 80B for distributing the air. See e.g., U.S. Patent No. 7, 114,771, filed May 25, 2004, the entire contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference herein.
  • the distribution systems 76A, 76B or portions thereof may be combined with each other.
  • a spacer fabric or spacer layer can also be positioned within the channels 80A, 80B in certain arrangements.
  • FIG. 4 is a schematic illustration of an example climate control system 36 that can be used with or in combination, sub-combinations or in modifications with the embodiments and arrangements disclosed herein.
  • the climate control system includes a back thermal module 92 A and seat thermal module 92B.
  • both thermal modules 92A, 92B can be configured to provide conditioned air (and/or to remove air in some embodiments) to the distribution systems 76 A, 76B described above.
  • the thermal modules 92A, 92B provide a fluid flow to either warm or cool the front surface 48 of the backrest 34 and the top surface 50 of the seat portion 32 respectively.
  • the climate control apparatus 36 can provides conditioned air that is either heated or cooled relative to the temperature of the front surface 48 of the back rest 32 and the top surface 50 of the seat 32.
  • the thermal modules 92A, 92B can each include a thermoelectric device 94 A, 94B for temperature conditioning (i.e. selectively heating or cooling) the fluid flowing through the device 94 A, 94B.
  • the thermoelectric device 94A, 94B is a Peltier thermoelectric module.
  • the illustrated thermal modules 92A, 92B can also include a main heat exchanger 96A, 96B for transferring or removing thermal energy from the fluid flowing through the modules 92A, 92B and to the distribution systems 76 A, 76B. Such fluid is transferred to the distribution systems 76 A, 76B through ducting 98A, 98B (see e.g., U.S. Publication No.
  • the modules 92A, 92B can also include a secondary or waste heat exchanger 100 A, 100B that extends from the thermoelectric device 94 A, 94B generally opposite the main heat exchanger 96 A, 96B.
  • a pumping device 102 A, 102B is can be associated with each thermal module 92 A, 92B for directing fluid over the main and/or waste heat exchangers 96A, 96B, 100A, 100B.
  • the pumping devices 102A, 102B can comprise an electrical fan or blower, such as, for example, an axial blower and/or radial fan.
  • a single pumping device 102 A, 102B may be used for both the main and waste heat exchangers 96 A, 96B, 100 A, 100B.
  • separate pumping devices may be associated with the secondary and heat exchangers 96 A, 96B, 100 A, 100B.
  • thermal modules 92A, 92B described above represents only one embodiment of a device that may be used to condition the air supplied to the distribution systems 76 A, 76B. Any of a variety of differently configured thermal modules may be used to provide conditioned air. Other examples of thermal modules that may be used are described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,223,539, 6, 119,463, 5,524,439 or 5,626,021, which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety. Another example of such a thermal module is currently sold under the trademark Micro-Thermal ModuleTM by Amerigon, Inc. In another example, the thermal module may comprise a pump device without a thermoelectric device for thermally conditioning the air.
  • the pumping device may be used to remove or supply air to the distribution system 76 A, 76B.
  • the thermal modules 92A, 92B may share one or more components (e.g., pumping devices, thermoelectric devices, etc.) with the vehicles general climate control system.
  • fluid in the form of air can be delivered from the thermal modules 92A, 92B, specifically through the main heat exchangers 96A, 96B and through the ducting 98A, 98B to the distribution systems 76A, 76B.
  • the air flows through the passages 82 A, 82B, into the openings 84A, 84B and then along the distribution layer 86A, 86B and through the covering 74.
  • conditioned air can be provided to the front surface 48 of the backrest 34 and the top surface 50 of the seat 32.
  • Air can also pass through waste heat exchangers 100A, 100B and out to the surroundings.
  • air from within the passenger compartment of the automobile can be drawn through the covering 74, into the distribution layer 86A, 86B and through the openings 84 A, 84B.
  • the air then can flow through the distribution passages 82 A, 82B, into the inlet passage 78 A, 78B and then into the ducting 98 A, 98B.
  • the climate control system 36 can provide suction so that air near the surface of the seat assembly 30 is removed.
  • a suitable control system can be provided to control the climate control system 36 in response to various control routines and/or user inputs. See, e.g., U.S. Patent No. 7,587,901, filed Jan. 31, 2005, the entire contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference herein.
  • the thermal modules 92 A, 92B can be coupled to the rear side 56 and the bottom side 70 of the backrest 34 and seat portion 32, respectively.
  • the thermal modules 92 A, 92B can be integrated within the seat assembly 30 such that at least a portion of the thermal modules 92 A, 92B are contained within the backrest 34 and seat portion 32, respectively.
  • arrows having broken lines reflect airflow towards a waste side of a thermoelectric device and/or waste fluid.
  • Arrows having solid lines reflect airflow towards a main side of a thermoelectric device and/or conditioned fluid.
  • FIG. 5 a schematic view of an embodiment of a climate controlled seat assembly is illustrated in which fluid flow through both the main heat exchanger 96B and the waste heat exchanger 100B attached to the thermoelectric device 94B occurs via a single pumping device 102B. While the embodiment is described with respect to the seat 32 and components of the seat 32, it should be understood that the system can also be applied to the backrest 34 and components of the backrest 34.
  • the pumping device 102B can be designed to direct fluid, such as air, from a location that is spaced apart from the surface being cooled or heated through a conduit, such as ducting 98B of FIG. 4 and fluid distribution component 128 of FIGS. 13 including, but not limited to, plenum or bag 130 as shown in FIG. 14, towards the main heat exchanger 96B.
  • the pumping device is located on a side opposite of the seat 32 from the surface that supports the occupant.
  • the conditioned fluid 97B from the main heat exchanger 96B can then be directed via a conduit, such as seat distribution system 76B, towards the surface to be cooled or heated.
  • the pumping device 102B can be designed to direct fluid, such as air, from a location that is spaced apart from the surface being cooled or heated through a conduit towards the waste heat exchanger 100B where the waste fluid 10 IB can then be exhausted to the surrounding atmosphere.
  • fluid such as air
  • pumping device is located on a side of the seat opposite from the surface that supports the occupant.
  • the fluid passing through both the main heat exchanger 96B and the waste heat exchanger 100B is pulled from a location spaced apart from the surface being cooled or heated such that the fluid passing through both the main heat exchanger 96B and the waste heat exchanger 100B has not been immediately or recently conditioned by the heat exchangers.
  • air can be pulled on a side of the seat assembly 30 opposite the occupant.
  • the fluid passing through the waste heat exchanger 100B is generally fluid at atmospheric conditions or the general conditions within the vehicle.
  • the only flow of fluid towards or away from the occupant is the flow of conditioned fluid 97B.
  • FIG. 6 a schematic view of an another embodiment of a climate controlled seat assembly 30 is illustrated in which fluid flow through both the main heat exchanger 96B and the waste heat exchanger 100B attached to the thermoelectric device 94B occurs via two or more pumping devices 102B, 103B.
  • this "cross-flow" operation of the climate controlled seat assembly 30 can provide advantages over a non-"cross-flow" design. While the embodiment is described with respect to the seat 32 and components of the seat 32, it should be understood that the system can also be applied to the backrest 34 and components of the backrest 34. Moreover the embodiments described with respect to FIGS.
  • the arrangements of this disclosure may be adapted for use in other vehicles, such as, for example, an airplane, a boat, or the like other support assemblies such as, for example, a chair, a sofa, a theater seat, a mattress, topper for a mattress, and/or an office seat that is used in a place of business and/or residence and/or any other surface on which an occupant can be supported and on which thermal conditioning can be desirable and/or applications where it is desired to cool an enclosed or partially enclosed space, such as, for example, a cupholder or a heated and/or cooled bin
  • pumping device 102B can be designed to push air towards main heat exchanger 96B and pumping device 103B can be designed to pull air through waste heat exchanger 100B. Similar to the embodiment illustrated in Figure 5, with respect to the main heat exchanger 96B, the pumping device 102B can direct fluid, such as air, from a location that is spaced from the surface being conditioned (e.g., cooled and/or heated) and/or supporting the occupant such that a majority of the fluid has not been immediately conditioned by the thermal module 92B. The pumping device 102B can direct such fluid through a conduit, such as ducting 98B of FIG. 4 or fluid distribution component 128 of FIGS.
  • a conduit such as ducting 98B of FIG. 4 or fluid distribution component 128 of FIGS.
  • the pumping device 103B can direct fluid, such as air, from a location proximate and/or on a side of the surface being conditioned (e.g., cooled and/or heated) and/or supporting an occupant through a conduit, such as fluid distribution component 132 of FIG. 13 including, but not limited to, collection bag 134 of FIG. 15 or plenum 136 of FIG. 16, towards the waste heat exchanger 100B where the waste fluid 10 IB can then be exhausted to the surrounding atmosphere.
  • fluid such as air
  • the fluid passing through the waste heat exchanger 100B is withdrawn from a location proximate the surface being cooled or heated or on a side of the of the support assembly being cooled or heated and thus such fluid is being withdrawn proximate the occupant and in the illustrated embodiment is transferred through at least a portion of the seat 32 before entering the waste heat exchange 100B.
  • the fluid for the waste heat exchanger 100B can be withdrawn from the top surface 50 of the seat 32 or proximate the top surface 50 and then, in the illustrated embodiment, drawn through a channel extending at least partially through or along the seat 32.
  • the fluid for the waste heat exchange 100B can be withdrawn from the front surface 48 of the backrest 34 or proximate the front surface 48 and then, in one embodiment, drawn through a then through a channel extending at least partially through or along the backrest 34..
  • This can advantageously enhance the efficiency of the system by making use of the air flow through the waste heat exchanger 100B to further enhance the comfort of the occupant. For example, by withdrawing air proximate the occupant, one can increase circulation such that air does not stagnate around the occupant. This "vent” cooling can be used to supplement the "active" cooling from the conditioned fluid 97B.
  • the air withdrawn from the top surface 50 or front surface 48 can be at a lower or higher temperature (depending upon the mode) as compared to the air beneath the seat and/or a side of the support assembly opposite the support surface and/or to a side of the support surface.
  • the occupant is utilizing HVAC of the vehicle such that the fluid above the seat assembly 30 and/or on a side of the seat assembly supporting the occupant is at a lower or higher temperature than the temperature of fluid below, to the side and/or behind (e.g., opposite the support surface) the seat assembly 30.
  • at least a portion of the conditioned fluid 97B can be recirculated.
  • thermoelectric unit can be operated more efficiently.
  • the waste heat exchanger 100B will be at a higher temperature as a result of operation of the thermoelectric device 94B. Since the fluid withdrawn from the top surface 50 or the front surface 48 can be at a lower temperature than the surrounding fluid spaced from the occupant, use of this cooler fluid can more effectively remove heat from the waste heat exchanger 100B. In contrast, had the higher temperature fluid been used, a greater amount of fluid would have been needed to remove heat from the waste heat exchanger 100B to the same degree (i.e., the pump 103B would need to generate more flow and thus expend more energy).
  • the waste heat exchanger 100B will be at a lower temperature as a result of operation of the thermoelectric device 94B. Since the fluid withdrawn from the top surface 50 or the front surface 48 can be at a higher temperature than the surrounding fluid spaced from the occupant, use of this hotter fluid can more effectively heat transfer to the waste heat exchanger 100B. In contrast, had the lower temperature fluid from the surroundings been used, a greater amount of fluid would have been needed to transfer heat to the waste heat exchanger 100B to the same degree (i.e., the pump 103B would need to generate more flow and thus expend more energy).
  • the location from which fluid is withdrawn can be adjacent the location at which conditioned fluid 97B is being introduced. In some embodiments, the location from which fluid is withdrawn can be partially spaced apart from the location at which conditioned fluid 97B is being introduced but still be on the same side of the seat assembly 30 or support assembly (e.g., bed, sofa and/or chair) as the occupant.
  • the fluid can be withdrawn along the outer periphery of the seat 32 and backrest 34, such as the side bolsters of the seat 32 such as sides 69, 71 and backrest 34 such as sides 57, 59, whereas conditioned fluid 97B can be introduced at a central location of the seat 32 such as the seat area 40 and a central location of the backrest 34 such as the lumbar region 62. Further separation can potentially enhance the efficiency of the system by reducing the likelihood that a substantial amount of conditioned fluid 97B is removed before cooling or heating the occupant. [0105] It should be appreciated that the embodiment described above with reference to Figure 6 can be used in other types of support assemblies and/or applications and need not be used in combination with the additional embodiments described herein.
  • FIG. 7 illustrates a schematic view of another embodiment of a climate controlled seat assembly 30 in which components of the thermal module 92B are contained within the seat 32, which can be used alone or in combination with the embodiments described above. As with other embodiments described herein, this embodiment can also be extended to other application and support assemblies, such as, for example, beds, topper members, and/or chairs. As will be appreciated, integration of components of the thermal module 92B can provide advantages including compact packaging and increased efficiency. While the embodiment is described with respect to the seat 32 and components of the seat 32, it should be understood that the system can also be applied to the backrest 34 and components of the backrest 34.
  • thermoelectric device 94B, main side heat exchanger 96B and the waste side heat exchange 100B are contained within the seat 32.
  • Conditioned fluid 97B passing through the main side heat exchanger 96B can be directed towards the occupant whereas fluid passing through the waste heat exchanger 100B can be pulled from around the occupant and directed away from the occupant.
  • FIGS. 8-10 illustrate another embodiment of a thermal module 92B having a main heat exchanger 96B and a waste heat exchanger 100B oriented such that the direction of flow through the heat exchangers 96B, 100B are oblique or substantially perpendicular.
  • the internal components of the thermal module 92B are illustrated.
  • the main heat exchanger 96B is positioned on a first side of a thermoelectric device (not shown) and the waste heat exchanger 100B is positioned on a second side of the thermoelectric device.
  • Wiring 95B can be used to provide power to operate the thermoelectric device.
  • Insulating material 103B can be included around both the main heat exchanger 96B and the waste heat exchange 100B to reduce heat transfer in undesired directions. Additional materials and/or layers can also be included, such as semi- permeable or impermeable layers, to reduce the likelihood of fluid leakage into undesired locations.
  • a thermal module 92B is illustrated disposed within a housing 116B.
  • the housing 116B can include a flange 118B around a top side 106B of the thermal module 92B which can facilitate attachment of the thermal module 92B to the seat assembly 30.
  • the housing 116B can be made of a durable material to reduce the likelihood that the internal components of the thermal module 92B are damaged during use and/or assembly.
  • the housing 116B can be made of an insulating material to further reduce heat transfer in undesired directions.
  • the thermal module 92B has a rectangular shape with a bottom side 104B, a top side 106B, a front side 108B, a rear side HOB, a left side 112B and a right side 114B. Fewer or greater number of sides can be used and the thermal module 92B can have any shape as desired.
  • the main heat exchanger 96B can be oriented such that fluid flows into the main heat exchanger 96B through the bottom side 104B and conditioned fluid 97B exits from the opposite, top side 106B.
  • the waste heat exchanger 100B can be oriented such that fluid flows into the waste heat exchanger 100B from the left side 112B and exits from the opposite, right side 114B.
  • flow through the main side heat exchanger 96B can be generally orthogonal to flow through the waste heat exchanger 100B.
  • the direction of flow through the main heat exchanger 96B and the waste heat exchanger 100B can be less than 90 degrees.
  • flow through the main heat exchanger 96B and the waste heat exchanger 100B can be between about 10 degrees to about 80 degrees, between about 20 degrees to about 70 degrees, between about 30 degrees to about 60 degrees, between about 40 degrees to about 45 degrees, any subrange of angles within these ranges, or any angle within these ranges. This can advantageously allow for more compact packaging of the thermal module 92B.
  • the illustrated embodiment illustrates the flow through the heat exchangers 96B, 100B as being linear, for example from the bottom side 104B to the top side 106B or from the left side 112B to the right side 114B
  • the heat exchangers 96B, 100B can be designed to redirect the fluid through the thermal module 92B.
  • fluid can enter the heat exchanger, such as heat exchangers 96B, 100B, from the bottom side 104B and exit from the left side 112B.
  • FIGS. 11A-C illustrate another climate controlled seat assembly 30 with portions of cushion 72 and covering material 74 removed to expose the thermal modules 92B contained therein. While the embodiment is described with respect to the seat 32 and components of the seat 32, it should be understood that the system can also be applied to the backrest 34 and components of the backrest 34. In addition, as described above, this embodiment can also be used in other types of support assemblies and other cooling/heating applications. As shown in the illustrated embodiment, the thermal modules 92B can be distributed along the seat 32 at various locations. Any number of thermal modules 92B can be distributed along the seat 32. For example, the seat 32 can include one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten, or an even greater number of thermal modules 92B.
  • the thermal modules 92B can be distributed along the seat 32 in any pattern as desired. As shown in the illustrated embodiment, a first and second thermal module 92B are positioned along a front portion of the seat 32 whereas a third and fourth thermal module 92B are positioned rearward of the first and second thermal modules. In some embodiments, such as those illustrated in FIGS. 11A-C, an even number of thermal modules 92B can be used. In other embodiments, an odd number of thermal modules 92B can be used. Distribution of a plurality of thermal modules 92B along the seat 32 can advantageously enhance the control over temperature distribution across the top surface 50 of the seat 32.
  • thermal modules 92B such that certain areas of the seat 32 are heated or cooled to a lesser extent than other areas of the seat 32.
  • distribution of a plurality of thermal modules 92B can enhance the efficiency of thermal conditioning system. For example, due to the reduced distance from the point of cooling to the occupant, there are less thermal losses.
  • the thermal modules 92B can be positioned proximate locations of the covering material 74 on which the occupant will likely be in contact, for example, the thigh area 42 of the seat 32. This can advantageously reduce the amount of ducting to direct the conditioned fluid 97B towards the occupant. By directing the conditioned fluid 97B towards the occupant, the effects of the conditioned fluid 97B will be more readily apparent to the occupant. This can beneficially reduce the total energy usage to achieve the same conditioning effect. As shown in the illustrated embodiment, the conditioned fluid 97B can be directed vertically towards the occupant whereas the fluid 10 IB for the waste heat exchanger 100B can be withdrawn from one or more openings 122 proximate the occupant into the channel 123.
  • such openings 122 can be positioned along crevices of the seat 32.
  • Such crevices can be between the thigh area 42 and the bolsters such as sides 69, 71 of the seat 32.
  • Such crevices can be positioned closer to the occupant such that conditioned air 97B is more likely to be withdrawn into the opening 122 and exhausted. This can advantageously reduce the likelihood of stagnant, conditioned fluid 97B thus ensuring a fresh supply of conditioned fluid 97B to the occupant.
  • such crevices can be between the lumber region 60 and the bolsters such as sides 57, 59 of the backrest 34.
  • openings 122 can be positioned further outboard, such as along the bolsters of the seat 32 or backrest 34 as illustrated in FIG. 1 IB, or further outward towards the outer periphery of the bolsters.
  • the opening 122 can be formed as a groove or channel cut into the cushion 72 to direct the withdrawn air towards channel 123 and into the thermal module 92B. Any shape of groove or channel can be used as desired. A longer groove can result in a greater area from which air is withdrawn whereas a shorter groove can result in more concentrated areas. In some embodiments, more than a single groove or channel can be directed towards a single thermal module 92B. The withdrawn fluid can then be directed away from the top surface 50 of the seat 32 or the front surface 48 of the backrest 34 such that the waste fluid has little to no effect on the conditioned seat assembly 30.
  • FIGS. 12A-C illustrate another embodiment of a climate controlled seat assembly 30 with portions of cushion 72 and covering material 74 removed to expose the thermal modules 92B contained therein.
  • a spacer fabric 125 can be included between layer 120 and a component above layer 120.
  • the spacer fabric 125 can be designed to maintain separation between the layer 120 and the component above the layer 120, such as cushion 72, such that a fluid chamber that can allow lateral and/or upward movement of fluid is formed between the layer 120 and the component.
  • the spacer fabric or layer 125 can be formed of a variety of materials such as a honey-combed foam material, material with channels and passages formed therein, 3D spacer fabrics, mesh netting fabrics, spacing plates, etc.
  • a honey-combed foam material material with channels and passages formed therein
  • 3D spacer fabrics material with channels and passages formed therein
  • mesh netting fabrics mesh netting fabrics
  • spacing plates etc.
  • 3MESH® commercially available from Mueller Textil GmbH, Germany or Mueller Textiles, Inc., Rhode Island, USA.
  • Other preferred spacing devices and spacing plates are disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 8,777,320, the entirety of which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.
  • the opening from which the conditioned fluid 97B is expelled can include ducting 127.
  • the ducting 127 can be attached to the flange 118B using, for example, an adhesive or other bonding agent to create a relatively leak-free seal at the connection between the flange 118B and the ducting 127.
  • ducting 127 can be made from a semi-impermeable or impermeable material such that a relatively leak-free seal is achieved.
  • the ducting 127 can be designed such that there is relatively little heat transfer from the conditioned fluid 97B to fluid contained in the chamber formed by the spacer fabric 125.
  • the ducting 127 can extend from the flange 118B and beyond the spacer fabric 125 such that the conditioned fluid 97B can wholly bypass the chamber formed by the spacer fabric 125.
  • the ducting 127 can extend from the flange 118B and only partially into the spacer fabric 125 such that the conditioned fluid 97B can slightly mix with fluids contained in the chamber formed by the spacer fabric 125.
  • the ducting 127 can be designed such that it directs the conditioned fluid 97B towards or into one or more holes, such as hole 129, in the cushioning 72 or any other component above the spacer fabric 125.
  • the chamber formed by the spacer fabric 125 can be in fluid communication with one or more holes, such as holes 131, in the cushioning 72 or any other component above the spacer fabric 125.
  • the chamber formed by the spacer fabric 125 can also be in fluid communication with the openings 122 and/or channel 123 such that fluid within the chamber can be withdrawn through the waste heat exchanger 100B and carried away from the conditioned surface such as top surface 50 of the seat 32.
  • the holes 131 can be positioned proximate the holes 129. This can be advantageous in ensuring a constant stream of freshly conditioned fluid 97B adjacent the conditioned surface. Of course, the holes 131 can be positioned further from the holes 129 to reduce recycling of conditioned fluid 97B.
  • flange 118B of the thermal module 92B can be placed over a layer 120 thereby forming a waste chamber 124 and a conditioned chamber 126.
  • the flange 118B can be attached to the layer 120 such that a relatively leak-free seal between the flange 118B and layer 120 is achieved.
  • the layer 120 can be a semi-permeable or impermeable layer to reduce the transfer of fluids from the waste chamber 124 to the conditioned chamber 126.
  • Layer 120 can also be an insulating layer to reduce heat transfer across the layer 120 and thus reduce the heat transfer between the waste chamber 124 and the conditioned chamber 126.
  • the conditioned chamber 124 can be placed in fluidic communication with another layer, such as a cushion 72 and/or distribution layer 86B.
  • a distribution layer 86B can advantageously further distribute the conditioned fluid 97B from the conditioned chamber 124 across the covering 74 thereby reducing the likelihood of significant temperature differentials across the covering 74.
  • FIG. 13 includes a single distribution layer 86B, it should be understood that each conditioned chamber 126 can have its own distribution layer 86B which can be fluidically separated from distribution layers of other conditioned chambers 126. This can be advantageous if one does not desire conditioned fluid 97B from one chamber 126 to mix with conditioned fluid 97B from another chamber 126.
  • one or more of the conditioned chambers 126 can be fluidically coupled to one or more fluid distribution components 128.
  • the fluid distribution component 128, such as a plenum or bag 130 (as shown in FIG. 14), can be used to distribute fluid to one or more main heat exchangers 96B. This can advantageously reduce the number of pumping devices 102B used in the system. For example, in some embodiments, a single pumping device 102B can be used for a plurality of thermal modules 92B.
  • the fluid distribution component 128 can be positioned opposite the occupant. For example, the fluid distribution component 128 can be positioned under the seat 32 opposite the top surface 50 or behind backrest 34 opposite the front surface 48.
  • the waste chamber 124 can be in fluid communication with openings 122 and channel 123.
  • the fluid withdrawn from the openings 122 can be used for heat transfer to the waste heat exchanger 100B.
  • the one or more of the waste chambers 124 can be fluidically coupled to one or more fluid distribution component 132.
  • Fluid distribution component 132 can be used to collect and withdraw fluid from one or more waste heat exchangers 100B.
  • fluid distribution component 132 can be a collection bag 134 (as shown in FIG. 15) or a plenum 136 (as shown in FIG. 16). This can advantageously reduce the number of pumping devices 103B used in the system.
  • a single pumping device 103B can be used.
  • the fluid distribution component 132 can be positioned opposite the occupant.
  • the fluid distribution component 132 can be positioned under the seat 32 opposite the top surface 50 or behind backrest 34 opposite the front surface 48.
  • FIG. 17 an embodiment of a bottom side of the seat 32 is illustrated showing a configuration of holes 133 through which fluid to be conditioned, via main heat exchanger 94B can be received for delivery to the conditioned surface and holes 135 through which waste fluid 112b can be expelled away from the conditioned surface.
  • the bottom portion of the seat can include one or more gaskets 137 positioned around the holes 133, 135.
  • the gasket 137 can interface with a corresponding surface on another component to provide an additional seal and reduce leakage in undesired directions.
  • the gasket 137 can be made from a foam, a rubber, or any material as desired.
  • a top side of a frame 73 for a seat assembly 30 is illustrated showing a configuration of holes 139 through which fluid to be conditioned, via main heat exchanger 94B can be received for delivery to the conditioned and holes 141 through which waste fluid 112b can be expelled away from the conditioned surface.
  • holes 133 can be in fluid communication with holes 139 and holes 135 can be in fluid communication with holes 141.
  • the top side of the frame 73 can include one or more gaskets 143 positioned around the holes 139, 141.
  • the gasket 141 can interface with a corresponding surface, such as gasket 137, to provide an additional seal and reduce leakage in undesired directions.
  • the gasket 141 can be made from a foam, a rubber, or any material as desired.
  • a bottom side of the frame 73 which includes both a fluid distribution component 128 for the main heat exchanger 94B and a fluid distribution component 132 for the waste heat exchanger 134.
  • the fluid distribution components 128, 132 are integrally formed as a single bag with the fluid distribution components 128, 132 being separated via seams or welds.
  • the pumping device 102B can direct fluid into the fluid distribution component 128 and the pumping device 103B can direct waste fluid out of the fluid distribution component 132.
  • the fluid distribution component 128 can be in fluid communication with holes 139 while the fluid distribution component 132 can be in fluid communication with holes 141.
  • a structural member can be included within the fluid distribution component 132.
  • the structure member can be similar to the spacer fabric 125.
  • the fluid distribution component 132 and/or fluid distribution component 128 can be manufactured from a rigid material. This can reduce the potential of damage to the fluid distribution components 128, 132. Moreover, this can reduce the likelihood that fluid distribution component 132 collapses as a result of negative pressure.
  • a bottom side of the frame 73 which includes both a fluid distribution component 128 for the main heat exchanger 94B and a fluid distribution component 132 for the waste heat exchanger 134.
  • the fluid distribution components 128, 132 are separately formed as two bags with the fluid distribution components. Such an embodiment can be beneficial to reduce the likelihood of leakage from the fluid distribution component 132 to the fluid distribution component 128 or vice versa.
  • the pumping device 102B can direct fluid into the fluid distribution component 128 and the pumping device 103B can direct waste fluid out of the fluid distribution component 132.
  • the fluid distribution component 128 can be in fluid communication with holes 139 while the fluid distribution component 132 can be in fluid communication with holes 141.
  • a structural member can be included within the fluid distribution component 132.
  • the structure member can be similar to the spacer fabric 125. As shown in the illustrated embodiment, there can be some overlap between the two fluid distribution components 128, 132.
  • FIG. 21 a schematic view of an embodiment of a climate controlled seat assembly 30 is illustrated in which fluid flow through both the main heat exchanger 96B and the waste heat exchanger 100B attached to the thermoelectric device 94B occurs via one or more dual-mode pumping device 138B. While the embodiment is described with respect to the seat 32 and components of the seat 32, it should be understood that the system can also be applied to the backrest 34 and components of the backrest 34.
  • the dual-mode pumping device 138B can be designed to simultaneously push air towards main heat exchanger 96B and pull air through waste heat exchanger 100B.
  • the dual-mode pumping device 138B can direct fluid, such as air, from a location that is spaced from the surface being conditioned (e.g., cooled and/or heated) and/or supporting the occupant such that a majority of the fluid has not been immediately conditioned by the thermal module 92B.
  • the dual-mode pumping device 138B can direct such fluid through a conduit, such as ducting 98B, towards the main heat exchanger 96B.
  • the conditioned fluid 97B from the main heat exchanger 96B can then be directed via a conduit, such as seat distribution system 76B, towards the surface to be cooled or heated.
  • the pumping device 103B can direct fluid, such as air, from a location proximate the surface being cooled or heated through a conduit towards the waste heat exchanger 100B where the waste fluid 10 IB can then be exhausted to the surrounding atmosphere.
  • fluid such as air
  • the dual-mode pumping device 138B can have one or more rotors 140B having a plurality of fins, such as an impeller, for creating a fluid flow through the pumping device 138B.
  • the rotor 140B can be powered by a single motor although a greater number of motors can be used.
  • the impeller 140B can pull fluid, such as air, through a first inlet 142B and a second inlet 144B and expel the fluid through a first outlet 146B and a second outlet 148B.
  • the first inlet 142B and first outlet 146B can be separated from the second inlet 144B and second outlet 148B via a component such as a plate 150.
  • the plate is positioned about the impeller such that a generally leak-free seal is achieved to reduce the likelihood of mixing of fluids thereby reducing efficiency of the system.
  • the second inlet 144B can pull fluid from the surrounding area and expel said fluid, via the second outlet 148B, into the main heat exchanger 96B whereas the first inlet 142B can pull waste fluid 10 IB from the waste heat exchanger 100B and expel the waste fluid 10 IB, via the first outlet 146B, to the surrounding area.
  • the first inlet 142B can pull waste fluid 10 IB from the waste heat exchanger 100B and expel the waste fluid 10 IB, via the first outlet 146B, to the surrounding area.
  • FIG. 23 a schematic view of an embodiment of a climate controlled seat assembly 30 is illustrated in which climate control systems are provided for both the seat 32 and the backrest 34.
  • a first dual-mode pumping device 138B controls fluid flow through the seat 32 and a second dual-mode pumping device 138A controls fluid flow through the backrest 34.
  • the dual-mode pumping devices 138A, 138B can be designed to simultaneously push air towards main heat exchanger attached to a thermoelectric module and pull air through a waste heat exchanger attached to the thermoelectric module.
  • the dual-mode pumping devices 138A, 138B can be a self-contained unit having one or more thermoelectric modules, one or more main heat exchangers, and/or one or more waste heat exchangers contained therein. This can beneficially improve packaging of the components and can facilitate assembly and maintenance of the climate control system.
  • the climate controlled seat assembly 30 described herein illustrates a single dual-mode pumping device for each of the seat 32 and the backrest 34, in some embodiments a greater number of dual-mode pumping devices can be provided for one or both of the seat 32 and the backrest 34.
  • the seat 32 or the backrest 34 may not be provided with a dual-mode pumping device.
  • the dual-mode pumping devices 138A, 138B can direct fluid, such as air, from a location that is spaced from the surface being conditioned (e.g., cooled and/or heated) and/or supporting the occupant such that a majority of the fluid has not been immediately conditioned by the thermoelectric device.
  • the dual- mode pumping devices 138A, 138B can direct such fluid through a conduit, such as ducting through the seat 32 and/or the backrest 34, towards the main heat exchanger.
  • the conditioned fluid 97A, 97B from the main heat exchangers of the dual-mode pumping devices 138A, 138B can then be directed via a conduit, such as the seat distribution systems described herein, towards the surface to be cooled or heated.
  • a conduit such as the seat distribution systems described herein
  • the dual-mode pumping devices 138A, 138B can direct fluid, such as air, from a location proximate the surface being cooled or heated through a conduit towards the waste heat exchangers where the waste fluid 101 A, 101B can then be exhausted to the surrounding atmosphere.
  • the dual-mode pumping device 138B can include a housing 139B which can contain components of the dual-mode pumping device 138B such as one or more rotors 140B for creating fluid flow through the dual-mode pumping device 138B, one or more motors 141B for powering the rotors 140B, one or more thermoelectric devices 94B, one or more main heat exchangers 96B, and/or one or more waste heat exchangers 100B.
  • components of the dual-mode pumping device 138B such as one or more rotors 140B for creating fluid flow through the dual-mode pumping device 138B, one or more motors 141B for powering the rotors 140B, one or more thermoelectric devices 94B, one or more main heat exchangers 96B, and/or one or more waste heat exchangers 100B.
  • the dual-mode pumping device 138B can include two rotors 140B coupled to a single motor 141B, a single thermoelectric device 94B, a single main side heat exchanger 96B, and a single waste side heat exchanger 100B.
  • the dual-mode pumping device can include a separate motor coupled to each rotor.
  • the dual-mode pumping device 94B can include two or more thermoelectric devices 94B, two or more main side heat exchangers 96B, and/or two or more waste side heat exchangers 100B.
  • the rotors 140B can include a plurality of fins, such as an impeller, for creating fluid flow through the housing 139B of the dual-mode pumping device 138B.
  • the dual-mode pumping device 138B can include a first inlet 142B on a first side of the housing 139B and a second inlet 144B on a separate side of the housing 139B.
  • the first inlet 142B can be positioned on a top side of the housing 139B and the second inlet 144B can be positioned on a bottom side of the housing 139B.
  • the rotors 140B can pull fluid, such as air, through a first inlet 142B and a second inlet 144B and expel the fluid through a first outlet 146B and a second outlet 148B respectively.
  • the first inlet 142B and first outlet 146B can be separated from the second inlet 144B and second outlet 148B via a component such as a plate 150B.
  • the plate 150B is also positioned about the rotors 140B such that a generally leak-free seal is achieved to reduce the likelihood of mixing of fluids which could thereby reduce efficiency of the system.
  • fluid pulled through the second inlet 144B can pass through ducting 98B formed through the housing 139B and pass through the main side heat exchanger 96B prior to being expelled through the second outlet 148B. Accordingly, fluid passing through the second inlet 144B can be converted into a conditioned fluid 97B prior to exiting the second outlet 148B.
  • fluid pulled through the first inlet 142B can pass through ducting 99B formed through the housing 139B and pass through the waste side heat exchanger 100B prior to being expelled through the first outlet 146B. Accordingly, fluid passing through the first inlet 142B can be converted into a waste fluid 10 IB prior to exiting the first outlet 146B.
  • the flow through the second inlet 144B and/or second outlet 148B can be generally orthogonal to flow through the ducting 98B.
  • the flow through the second inlet 144B and the second inlet 148B can be generally parallel.
  • the second inlet 144B can be positioned on a bottom side of the housing 139B and the second outlet 148B can be positioned on a top side of the housing 139B.
  • fluid can flow through ducting 98B from a front side to a rear side of the housing 139B.
  • the flow through the first inlet 142B and/or first outlet 146B can be generally orthogonal to flow through the ducting 99B.
  • the flow through the first inlet 142B and the first outlet 146B can be generally orthogonal.
  • the first inlet 142B can be positioned on a top side of the housing 139B and the second outlet 146B can be positioned on a left side and/or right side of the housing 139B.
  • fluid can flow through ducting 99B from a front side to a rear side of the housing 139B.
  • the angle formed by the directions of fluid flow can be less than 90 degrees.
  • the angle formed by the directions of fluid flow can be between about 10 degrees to about 80 degrees, between about 20 degrees to about 70 degrees, between about 30 degrees to about 60 degrees, between about 40 degrees to about 45 degrees, any subrange of angles within these ranges, or any angle within these ranges.
  • the angle formed by the directions of fluid flow can be greater than 90 degrees.
  • the angle formed by the directions of fluid flow can be between about 100 degrees to about 170 degrees, between about 110 degrees to about 160 degrees, between about 120 degrees to about 150 degrees, between about 135 degrees to about 140 degrees, any subrange of angles within these ranges, or any angle within these ranges.
  • dual-mode pumping device 138A can include the same or similar features as dual-mode pumping device 138B and/or any of the variations described above in connection with dual-mode pumping device 138B. Accordingly, similar components of the dual-mode pumping device 138A will be referenced in this application with an "A" suffix following the reference numeral.
  • FIGS. 28-34 illustrate another embodiment of a climate controlled seat assembly 30. While the embodiment is described with respect to the seat 32 and components of the seat 32, it should be understood that the system can also be applied to the backrest 34 and components of the backrest 34. In addition, as described above, this embodiment can also be used in other types of support assemblies and other cooling/heating applications.
  • the seat 32 can include a fluid distribution system 76B through which conditioned air 97B from a thermal module can be delivered to the seated occupant.
  • the fluid distribution system 76B can be positioned at or proximate a thigh area 42 of the seat 32.
  • the seat 32 can include another fluid distribution system 77B through which fluid can be gathered and distributed towards the waste heat exchanger 100B to generate the waste fluid 10 IB to be exhausted to the surrounding atmosphere.
  • the fluid distribution system 77B can be positioned at or proximate a central area and/or seat area 40 of the seat 32. Accordingly, in the illustrated embodiment, conditioned air 97B can be delivered to the occupant at or proximate the thigh area 42 and fluid can be gathered and pulled at or proximate a central area and/or seat area 40. It is also contemplated that this arrangement can be reversed such that conditioned air 97B can be delivered to the occupant at or proximate the central area 40 and fluid can be gathered and pulled at or proximate the thigh area 42.
  • both fluid distribution systems 76B, 77B can be used to deliver conditioned air 97B to the occupant or can be used to gather and pull fluid towards the waste heat exchanger 100B to generate the waste fluid 10 IB to be exhausted to the surrounding atmosphere.
  • the fluid distribution system 76B can include a passage 78B through which conditioned air 97B from a thermal module can pass.
  • the passage 78B can be in fluid communication with channels 80B.
  • the channels 80B can advantageously distribute the conditioned air 97B over a wider area of the seat 32 such that the cooling or heating effects of the conditioned air 97B is spread over this wider area as opposed to being concentrated at the passage 78B.
  • the channels 80B can extend laterally outward towards the sides 69, 71 of the seat 32 and/or can extend in a frontward/rearward direction towards the front side 64 and/or rear side 66 of the seat 32.
  • the fluid distribution system 77B can have a construction similar to that of fluid distribution system 76B. As shown in the illustrated embodiment, the fluid distribution system 77B can include a passage 79B through which fluid can be gathered and pulled towards a waste heat exchanger 100B to generate the waste fluid 10 IB to be exhausted to the surrounding atmosphere.
  • the passage 79B can be in fluid communication with channels 123B.
  • the channels 123B can advantageously allow fluid to be pulled over a wider area of the seat 32 such that the fluid flow is spread over this wider area as opposed to being concentrated at the passage 79B.
  • the channels 123B can extend laterally outward towards the sides 69, 71 of the seat 32 and/or can extend in a frontward/rearward direction towards the front side 64 and/or rear side 66 of the seat 32.
  • the channels 123B can include a portion 85B which is positioned further rearward of a central area of the seat 32.
  • one or both of the fluid distribution systems 76B, 77B can include a layer 120 positioned between the channels 80B, 123B and the cushion 72.
  • the layer 120 can be positioned over the passages 78B, 79B.
  • Such an arrangement can beneficially maintain a gap between the channels 80B, 123B and an overlying layer, such as the cushion 72. This can reduce the likelihood that the overlying layer collapses onto the passages 78B, 79B and/or portions of the channels 80B, 123B which could potentially restrict flow through the fluid distribution systems 76B, 77B.
  • the layer 120 can be formed from a material having some degree of flexibility such as a thin plastic film.
  • the layer 120 can be a semi-permeable or impermeable layer to reduce the transfer of fluids from directly above the passages 78B, 79B.
  • Layer 120 can also be an insulating or semi-insulating layer to reduce heat transfer across the layer 120.
  • a portion or the entirety of the channels 80B, 123B can be filled with an air permeable material, such as a spacer fabric, that can provide support for the occupant while still allowing the flow of air through the material.
  • a spacer fabric 125 is positioned within a portion of the channel 123B, including portion 85B, of the fluid distribution system 77B.
  • the spacer fabric 125 can be designed to maintain separation between the bottoms of the channel 123B as well as layer 120 and components above the channel 123B and/or layer 120, such as cushion 72.
  • no spacer fabric 125 is positioned within the fluid distribution system 76B. Due to the existence of positive pressure (i.e., pressure above atmospheric pressures) within the fluid distribution system 76B, there is a lower likelihood of collapse of the chambers even when subject to forces from a seated occupant. Moreover, the amount of forces applied to the thigh area 42 is generally lower than the amount of forces applied to the seat area 40 of a seat thereby further reducing the likelihood of the chambers collapsing as compared to fluid distribution system 77B. In some embodiments, a spacer fabric 125 can be positioned in portions or the entirety of channels 80B of the fluid distribution system 76B.
  • a cushion 72 can be positioned over the fluid distribution systems 76B, 77B to provide support for the occupant and to reduce the likelihood that the channels 80B, 123B will affect the comfort of the occupant.
  • the cushion 72 can include one or more openings 129B in fluid communication with the fluid distribution system 76B for allowing conditioned air 97B to pass through the cushion 72 and towards the seated occupant.
  • the openings 129B can be positioned at or adjacent the general location of an occupant's thighs when seated on the seat 32.
  • the conditioned fluid 97B can be concentrated in areas at or proximate the occupant such that the effects of the conditioned fluid 97B will be more readily apparent to the occupant. This can beneficially reduce the total energy usage to achieve the same conditioning effect. While the illustrated embodiment includes eight openings 129B positioned generally around an area at or adjacent the general location of an occupant's thighs, other arrangements of openings 129B, including the use of a fewer or greater number of openings 129B, are contemplated.
  • the cushion 72 can include one or more openings 13 IB in fluid communication with the fluid distribution system 77B through which fluid can be gathered and distributed towards the waste heat exchanger 100B to generate the waste fluid 10 IB to be exhausted to the surrounding atmosphere.
  • the openings 13 IB can be positioned at or adjacent the general location of an occupant's thighs when seated on the seat 32. By positioning the openings 13 IB in this manner, the withdrawn fluid can be concentrated in areas at or proximate the occupant such that the effects of the withdrawn fluid will be more readily apparent to the occupant. This can beneficially reduce the total energy usage to achieve the same effect.
  • FIG. 34 A schematic, cross-sectional view of a seat 32 is illustrated in FIG. 34.
  • an underside of seat 32 is illustrated showing a location of passages 78B, 79B.
  • a pumping device such as dual-mode pumping device 138B can be attached to the underside of a seat frame 73 used to support the cushion 72 and other portions of the seat 32.
  • the dual-mode pumping device 138B can include a first inlet (e.g., 142B of FIG. 25) positioned in fluid communication with passage 79B such that fluid can be pulled through passage 79B, into housing 139B and through a waste side heat exchanger (e.g., 100B of FIG. 25), where a waste fluid 101B can be generated and expelled out of the housing 139B.
  • the waste fluid 10 IB can be expelled towards the underside of the seat frame 73.
  • the dual-mode pumping device 138B can include a second inlet 144B with a second outlet (e.g., 148B of FIG.
  • the second inlet 144B can include extended ducting 152B to allow the dual- mode pumping device 138B to pull air from a location which is less likely to have mixed with waste fluid 10 IB.
  • FIGS. 35-38 illustrate another embodiment of a climate controlled seat assembly 30. While the embodiment is described with respect to the backrest 34 and components of the backrest 34, it should be understood that the system can also be applied to the seat 32 and components of the seat 32. In addition, as described above, this embodiment can also be used in other types of support assemblies and other cooling/heating applications.
  • the backrest 34 can include a fluid distribution system 76 A through which conditioned air 97A from a thermal module can be delivered to the seated occupant.
  • the fluid distribution system 76A can be positioned at or proximate an upper back area 63 of the backrest 34.
  • the backrest 34 can include another fluid distribution system 77 A through which fluid can be gathered and distributed towards the waste heat exchanger 100 A to generate the waste fluid 101 A to be exhausted to the surrounding atmosphere.
  • the fluid distribution system 77A can be positioned at or proximate a lumbar region 62 of the backrest 34. Accordingly, in the illustrated embodiment, conditioned air 97 A can be delivered to the occupant at or proximate the upper back area 63 and fluid can be gathered and pulled from a the lumbar region 62. It is also contemplated that this arrangement can be reversed such that conditioned air 97A can be delivered to the occupant at or proximate the lumbar region 62 and fluid can be gathered and pulled at or proximate the upper back area 63. In some embodiments, both fluid distribution systems 76A, 77A can be used to deliver conditioned air 97A to the occupant or can be used to gather and pull fluid towards the waste heat exchanger 100 A to generate the waste fluid 101 A to be exhausted to the surrounding atmosphere.
  • the fluid distribution system 76 A can include a passage 78A through which conditioned air 97A from a thermal module can pass.
  • the passage 78A can be in fluid communication with channels 80A.
  • the channels 80A can advantageously distribute the conditioned air 97 A over a wider area of the backrest 34 such that the cooling or heating effects of the conditioned air 97A is spread over this wider area as opposed to being concentrated at the passage 78A.
  • the channels 80A can extend laterally outward towards the sides 57, 59 of the backrest 34 and/or can extend in a upwards/downwards direction towards the top side 58 or bottom side 60 of the backrest 34.
  • the fluid distribution system 77 A can have a construction similar to that of fluid distribution system 76A. As shown in the illustrated embodiment, the fluid distribution system 77A can include a passage 79A through which fluid can be gathered and pulled towards a waste heat exchanger 100 A to generate the waste fluid 101 A to be exhausted to the surrounding atmosphere.
  • the passage 79A can be in fluid communication with channels 123 A.
  • the channels 123 A can advantageously allow fluid to be pulled over a wider area of the backrest 34 such that the fluid flow is spread over this wider area as opposed to being concentrated at the passage 79 A.
  • the channels 123 A can extend laterally outward towards the sides 57, 59 of the backrest 34 and/or can extend in a upwards/downwards direction towards the top side 58 or bottom side 60 of the backrest 34.
  • the channels 123A can include a portion 85A which is positioned further downward towards the bottom side 60 of the backrest 34.
  • One or both of the fluid distribution systems 76 A, 77 A can include a layer 120 positioned between the channels 80A, 123A and the cushion 72. As shown in the illustrated embodiment, the layer 120 can be positioned over the passage 79 A. Such an arrangement can beneficially maintain a gap between the channels 123 A and an overlying layer, such as the cushion 72. This can reduce the likelihood that the overlying layer collapses onto the passage 79 A and/or portions of the channels 123 A which could potentially restrict flow through the fluid distribution systems 77 A.
  • the layer 120 can be formed from a material having some degree of flexibility such as a thin plastic film.
  • the layer 120 can be a semi-permeable or impermeable layer to reduce the transfer of fluids from directly above the passage 79 A.
  • Layer 120 can also be an insulating or semi-insulating layer to reduce heat transfer across the layer 120.
  • a portion or the entirety of the channels 80A, 123A can be filled with an air permeable material, such as a spacer fabric, that can provide support for the occupant while still allowing the flow of air through the material.
  • a cushion 72 can be positioned over the fluid distribution systems 76A, 77A to provide support for the occupant and to reduce the likelihood that the channels 80A, 123A will affect the comfort of the occupant.
  • the cushion 72 can include one or more openings 129 A in fluid communication with the fluid distribution system 76A for allowing conditioned air 97A to pass through the cushion 72 and towards the seated occupant.
  • the openings 129 A can be positioned at or adjacent the general location of an occupant's upper back when seated on the backrest 34.
  • the conditioned fluid 97B can be concentrated in areas at or proximate the occupant such that the effects of the conditioned fluid 97A will be more readily apparent to the occupant. This can beneficially reduce the total energy usage to achieve the same conditioning effect. While the illustrated embodiment includes four openings 129A positioned generally around an area at or adjacent the general location of an occupant's upper back, other arrangements of openings 129 A, including the use of a fewer or greater number of openings 129 A, are contemplated.
  • the cushion 72 can include one or more openings 131 A in fluid communication with the fluid distribution system 77A through which fluid can be gathered and distributed towards the waste heat exchanger 100 A to generate the waste fluid 101 A to be exhausted to the surrounding atmosphere.
  • the openings 131 A can be positioned at or adjacent the general location of an occupant's lower back or lumbar region when seated on the backrest 34. By positioning the openings 131 A in this manner, the withdrawn fluid can be concentrated in areas at or proximate the occupant such that the effects of the withdrawn fluid will be more readily apparent to the occupant. This can beneficially reduce the total energy usage to achieve the same effect.
  • openings 131 A While the illustrated embodiment includes twelve openings 131 A positioned generally around an area at or adjacent the general location of an occupant's lower back, other arrangements of openings 131 A, including the use of a fewer or greater number of openings 131 A, are contemplated.
  • a pumping device such as dual-mode pumping device 138A can be attached to the rear side of a backrest seat frame 75 used to support the cushion 72 and other portions of the backrest 34.
  • the dual-mode pumping device 138A can include a first inlet positioned in fluid communication with passage 79A such that fluid can be pulled through passage 79 A, into housing 139A and through a waste side heat exchanger, where a waste fluid 101 A can be generated and expelled out of the housing 139A.
  • the waste fluid 101 A can be expelled towards the rear side of the backrest frame 75.
  • the dual- mode pumping device 138A can include a second inlet 144 A with a second outlet positioned in fluid communication with passage 78A such that fluid can be pulled through second inlet 144 A, into housing 139A and through a main side heat exchanger, where a conditioned fluid can be generated and introduced into passage 78A where it can be distributed through portions of the backrest 34 via the fluid distribution system 76 A.
  • the second inlet 144 A can include ducting 152 A to allow the dual-mode pumping device 138A to pull air from a location which is less likely to have mixed with waste fluid 101 A.
  • a climate controlled seat assembly 30 having a seat 32 and backrest 34.
  • the seat 32 can include areas where conditioned fluid 97B is directed towards the occupant and areas where fluid is drawn away from the occupant.
  • the backrest 34 can include areas where conditioned fluid 97A is directed towards the occupant and areas where fluid is drawn away from the occupant. This embodiment could use the systems described in connection with FIGS. 28-38 above.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Aviation & Aerospace Engineering (AREA)
  • Transportation (AREA)
  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Thermal Sciences (AREA)
  • General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Chair Legs, Seat Parts, And Backrests (AREA)
  • Air-Conditioning For Vehicles (AREA)
  • Seats For Vehicles (AREA)
  • Percussion Or Vibration Massage (AREA)
  • Ceramic Products (AREA)
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PCT/US2015/029701 2014-05-09 2015-05-07 Climate control assembly Ceased WO2015171901A1 (en)

Priority Applications (9)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
DE112015002175.2T DE112015002175T5 (de) 2014-05-09 2015-05-07 Klimatisierungseinrichtung
CN201580024389.6A CN106458070B (zh) 2014-05-09 2015-05-07 气候控制组件
CN202010966848.5A CN112224100B (zh) 2014-05-09 2015-05-07 气候控制组件
KR1020227033664A KR102637609B1 (ko) 2014-05-09 2015-05-07 기후 제어 시트 조립체
US15/309,749 US10160356B2 (en) 2014-05-09 2015-05-07 Climate control assembly
JP2016564972A JP6672170B2 (ja) 2014-05-09 2015-05-07 環境制御組立品
KR1020167034643A KR102449808B1 (ko) 2014-05-09 2015-05-07 기후 제어 조립체
US14/937,624 US10457173B2 (en) 2014-05-09 2015-11-10 Climate control assembly
US16/226,104 US10647232B2 (en) 2014-05-09 2018-12-19 Climate control assembly

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US201461991310P 2014-05-09 2014-05-09
US61/991,310 2014-05-09

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US15/309,749 A-371-Of-International US10160356B2 (en) 2014-05-09 2015-05-07 Climate control assembly
US14/937,624 Continuation-In-Part US10457173B2 (en) 2014-05-09 2015-11-10 Climate control assembly
US16/226,104 Continuation US10647232B2 (en) 2014-05-09 2018-12-19 Climate control assembly

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PCT/US2015/029701 Ceased WO2015171901A1 (en) 2014-05-09 2015-05-07 Climate control assembly
PCT/US2016/060999 Ceased WO2017083308A1 (en) 2014-05-09 2016-11-08 Climate control assembly

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JP (2) JP6672170B2 (enExample)
KR (2) KR102449808B1 (enExample)
CN (2) CN112224100B (enExample)
DE (1) DE112015002175T5 (enExample)
WO (2) WO2015171901A1 (enExample)

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JP2020079088A (ja) 2020-05-28
KR102637609B1 (ko) 2024-02-15
US20170267140A1 (en) 2017-09-21
KR20220134059A (ko) 2022-10-05
US20190202327A1 (en) 2019-07-04
JP7011678B2 (ja) 2022-01-26
US10647232B2 (en) 2020-05-12
US10160356B2 (en) 2018-12-25
DE112015002175T5 (de) 2017-01-19
KR20170015919A (ko) 2017-02-10
US10457173B2 (en) 2019-10-29
CN112224100B (zh) 2023-08-22

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