WO2020230596A1

WO2020230596A1 - Heat sensation adjustment device

Info

Publication number: WO2020230596A1
Application number: PCT/JP2020/017817
Authority: WO
Inventors: 伊藤　功治; 康彦新美; 本村　博久; 竹田　弘
Original assignee: 株式会社デンソー
Priority date: 2019-05-14
Filing date: 2020-04-24
Publication date: 2020-11-19
Also published as: CN113811457A; DE112020002374T5

Abstract

This heat sensation adjustment device comprises: heat stimulation units (5, 6, 7, 8) configured to be able to change the distribution of heat stimulation for body parts by imparting heat stimulation to a plurality of body parts of an occupant; a selection unit (S110) for selecting one mode from two or more modes among a mode for quieting the mind, a mode for energizing the mind, a mode for quieting the body and a mode for energizing the body; and a stimulation control unit (S170) that controls the heat stimulation units on the basis of a target heat sensation distribution corresponding to the selected mode. Each target heat sensation distribution is data representing a plurality of heat sensation target values corresponding respectively to the plurality of body parts. The heat sensation target value corresponding to a particular body part, among the plurality of body parts, differs for each of the target heat sensation distributions. The stimulation control unit controls the heat stimulation units such that the heat stimulation imparted to a particular body part when one of the modes is selected differs from the heat stimulation imparted to the particular body part when another mode is selected by the selection unit.

Description

Thermal feeling adjustment device

Cross-reference to related applications

This application is based on Japanese Patent Application No. 2019-091518 filed on May 14, 2019 and Japanese Patent Application No. 2019-175660 filed on September 26, 2019. The description is incorporated by reference.

This disclosure relates to a thermal sensation adjusting device.

Patent Document 1 describes a control device that controls the operation of a heat sensation imparting device that independently gives a heat sensation to a plurality of parts of the body of a vehicle occupant. This control device determines, for each of the plurality of parts, whether it is a part where the feeling of warmth is insufficient or a part where the feeling of warmth is satisfied. Then, when there is a heat sensation insufficient part, the control device controls the operation of the heat sensation imparting device so as to give a heat sensation preferentially to the heat sensation deficient part rather than the heat sensation satisfaction part.

JP-A-2018-62297

Patent Document 1 does not mention the mental state of the occupant or the physical state of the occupant. According to the inventor's examination, it was found that the distribution of the feeling of warmth that the occupant feels comfortable is different depending on the part, depending on whether the occupant's mind is in a resting state or an active state. In addition, according to the study of the inventor, it was found that the distribution of the feeling of warmth that the occupant feels comfortable with is different between the resting state and the active state.
It is an object of the present disclosure to adjust the distribution of thermal sensations in multiple body parts of an occupant according to the mental or physical condition of the occupant to be achieved.

According to one aspect of the present disclosure, the thermal sensation adjusting device for adjusting the thermal sensation of a vehicle occupant gives a thermal stimulus to a plurality of body parts of the occupant and changes the distribution of the thermal stimulus for each body part. A heat stimulating unit that is configured to be possible, a mode that calms the occupant's mind, a mode that activates the occupant's mind, a mode that calms the occupant's body, and a mode that activates the occupant's body. A selection unit that selects one mode from at least two modes, and a stimulation control unit that controls the thermal stimulation unit based on a target thermal sensation distribution corresponding to the mode selected by the selection unit are provided. Each of the target thermal sensation distributions corresponding to the at least two modes is data representing a plurality of thermal sensation target values for each of the plurality of body parts, and each of the target thermal sensation distributions is , The specific body when the target value of the feeling of heat for a specific body part among the plurality of body parts is different from each other and any one of the at least two modes is selected by the selection unit. The stimulus is such that the thermal stimulus given to the site differs from the thermal stimulus given to the particular body part when the other mode of the at least two modes is selected by the selection. The control unit controls the thermal stimulation unit. By doing so, it is possible to adjust the distribution of the thermal sensation of the occupant's body part according to the occupant's mental state or physical condition to be achieved.

Note that the reference reference numerals in parentheses attached to each component or the like indicate an example of the correspondence between the component or the like and the specific component or the like described in the embodiment described later.

It is a schematic diagram which shows the vehicle interior in 1st Embodiment. It is a block diagram of the air-conditioning case and the equipment around it. It is a block diagram which shows the electric structure of a thermal feeling adjustment apparatus. It is a flowchart of the process executed by the air conditioner ECU. It is a figure which shows four modes. It is a graph of the target heat sensation distribution corresponding to the relax mode. It is a graph of the target thermal sensation distribution corresponding to the focus mode. It is a graph of the target heat sensation distribution corresponding to the sleep mode. It is a graph of the target thermal sensation distribution corresponding to the energy mode. It is a graph which shows the target value of the feeling of warmth and the correspondence with the target SET *. It is a block diagram which shows the electric structure of a thermal feeling adjustment apparatus and its surroundings in 2nd Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the detail of the process which determines a target SET *. It is a graph of the target heat sensation distribution corresponding to the relax mode. It is a graph of the target thermal sensation distribution corresponding to the focus mode. It is a graph of the target heat sensation distribution corresponding to the sleep mode. It is a graph of the target thermal sensation distribution corresponding to the energy mode. It is a flowchart of the display process executed by the air conditioner ECU. It is a figure which shows the example of the display screen in a display device. It is a figure which shows the example of the display screen in a display device. It is a figure which shows the example of the display screen in a display device. It is a figure which shows the example of the display screen in a display device. It is a figure which shows the example of the display screen in a display device. It is a flowchart of the display process executed by the air conditioner ECU in the third embodiment. It is a figure which shows the example of the display screen in a display device. It is a figure which shows the example of the display screen in a display device.

(First Embodiment)
Hereinafter, the first embodiment will be described. The thermal sensation adjusting device of the present embodiment adjusts the thermal sensation of the occupant 3 sitting in the driver's seat 2 in the vehicle interior of the vehicle 1 shown in FIG. The thermal sensation adjusting device includes an air conditioning unit 5 arranged inside the dashboard 4, a waist heater 6 attached to the driver's seat 2, a thigh heater 7, a lower leg heater 8, and a thermo camera 9. Hereinafter, the upper, lower, left, and right refer to the upper, lower, left, and right in the vehicle.

The air conditioning unit 5 is a device that blows temperature-controlled air into the vehicle interior from the defroster outlet 41, the face outlet 42, and the foot outlet 43 attached to the surface of the dashboard 4.

The waist heater 6 is an electric heater provided on the front side of the seat back below the central portion of the seat back of the driver's seat 2 in the vertical direction. The waist heater 6 mainly heats the waist 36 of the occupant 3.

The thigh heater 7 is an electric heater provided on the upper surface side of the seat cushion in the driver's seat 2. The thigh heater 7 mainly heats the left and right thighs 37 of the occupant 3.

The lower leg heater 8 is an electric heater provided on the front side of the seat cushion in the seat cushion of the driver's seat 2. The lower leg heater 8 mainly heats the left and right lower legs 38 of the occupant 3.

The air conditioning unit 5, the lumbar heater 6, the thigh heater 7, the lower leg heater 8, and the thermo camera 9 as a whole correspond to one thermal stimulus unit that applies a thermal stimulus to the occupant 3. The thermal stimulus is a stimulus that allows the occupant 3 to feel that the skin has been given a thermal stimulus.

The thermo camera 9 acquires infrared rays radiated from a predetermined shooting range, and based on the acquired infrared rays, generates and outputs an image representing the surface temperature of each position in the shooting range as a pixel value. It is a sensor. The entire body of the occupant 3 is included in the shooting range of the thermography.

The air conditioning unit 5 includes an air conditioning case 11, an inside / outside air switching door 12, a centrifugal fan 131, an evaporator 14, a heater core 15, an air mix door 16, a face door 17, and a foot door 18. Further, the air conditioning unit 5 includes a face duct 51, a foot duct 52, a defroster duct 53, and a wind direction adjusting plate 110. Further, the air conditioning unit 5 includes a fan actuator 131a, an air mix actuator 16a, a blowout mode actuator 17a, an inside / outside air mode actuator 12a, a wind direction actuator 110a, and the like.

The air conditioning case 11 surrounds the ventilation passage 111 through which the air that is temperature-controlled and blown into the vehicle interior passes. The inside / outside air switching door 12 is a member that adjusts the opening area of the inside air introduction port 112 and the opening area of the outside air introduction port 113. The inside / outside air switching door 12 rotates so as to close the other opening of the inside air introduction port 112 and the outside air introduction port 113 so that one opening is opened. Thereby, the inside / outside air switching door 12 can adjust the ratio of the air volume of the inside air introduced into the ventilation passage 111 to the air volume of the outside air (that is, the ratio of the inside / outside air). Here, the inside air is the vehicle interior air, and the outside air is the vehicle interior outside air. The inside / outside air mode actuator 12a is an actuator that drives the inside / outside air switching door 12, and is controlled by the air conditioner ECU 40 as shown in FIG. The air conditioner ECU 40 is also a component of the heat sensation adjusting device.

By rotating the centrifugal fan 131, if the inside air introduction port 112 is open, the inside air is introduced into the ventilation passage 111, and if the outside air introduction port 113 is open, the outside air is introduced into the ventilation passage 111. Air is sent to the downstream side of the air flow of the centrifugal fan 131 in the ventilation passage 111. The fan actuator 131a is an actuator that drives the centrifugal fan 131, and is controlled by the air conditioner ECU 40 as shown in FIG.

The evaporator 14 is arranged in the ventilation passage 111, downstream of the air flow of the centrifugal fan 131. The evaporator 14 cools the air sent from the centrifugal fan 131. The evaporator 14 constitutes a well-known refrigeration cycle together with a compressor, a condenser, an expansion valve and the like (not shown). This refrigeration cycle is also a component of the heat sensation adjusting device. When the refrigerant flowing through the refrigeration cycle passes through the evaporator 14, the refrigerant and air exchange heat. This heat exchange evaporates the refrigerant and cools the air.

The heater core 15 is arranged in the ventilation passage 111, downstream of the air flow of the evaporator 14. The heater core 15 heats the air that has passed through the evaporator 14. Engine cooling water flows through the heater core 15, and the air is heated by heat exchange between the engine cooling water and the air. The heater core 15 may replace the air that has passed through the evaporator 14 with a heating electric heater.

The air mix door 16 is provided between the evaporator 14 and the heater core 15. The air mix door 16 is a door that adjusts the ratio of the air volume of cold air that flows around the heater core 15 after passing through the evaporator 14 to the air volume of warm air that passes through the heater core 15 after passing through the evaporator 14, that is, the air mix ratio. Is. The air mix actuator 16a is an actuator that drives the air mix door 16, and is controlled by the air conditioner ECU 40 as shown in FIG.

As shown in FIG. 2, the air conditioning case 11 has a face opening 114, a foot opening 115, and a defroster opening for blowing air from the ventilation passage 111 into the vehicle interior on the downstream side in the air flow direction of the ventilation passage 111. 116 is formed. Air flows from the air mix space in the ventilation passage 111, in which the air bypassing the heater core 15 and the air passing through the heater core 15 are mixed, to the face opening 114, the foot opening 115, and the defroster opening 116.

The face opening 114, the foot opening 115, and the defroster opening 116 are provided with mode switching doors for opening and closing the respective openings. The mode switching door is composed of a face door 17, a foot door 18, and a defroster door 19. The face door 17 opens and closes the face opening 114. The foot door 18 opens and closes the foot opening 115. The defroster door 19 opens and closes the defroster opening 116.

The blowout mode actuator 17a is an actuator that drives the face door 17, the foot door 18, and the defroster door 19, and is controlled by the air conditioner ECU 40 as shown in FIG. The air outlet mode is controlled by the air mix actuator 16a. The outlet mode includes, for example, a face mode, a foot mode, and a defroster mode. The face mode is an air outlet mode in which the face door 17 is opened and the foot door 18 and the defroster door 19 are closed. The foot mode is an air outlet mode in which the foot door 18 is opened and the face door 17 and the defroster door 19 are closed. The defroster mode is an air outlet mode in which the defroster door 19 is opened and the face door 17 and the foot door 18 are closed.

One end of the face duct 51 is connected to the face opening 114, and the other end of the face duct 51 is opened at a position facing the seat back of the driver's seat 2 in the air conditioning unit 5. The air that has passed through the face opening 114 from the ventilation passage 111 passes through the face duct 51 and then is blown out into the vehicle interior from the face outlet 42. The air blown out from the face outlet 42 flows toward or around the upper body of the occupant 3 seated in the driver's seat 2.

One end of the foot duct 52 is connected to the foot opening 115, and the other end of the foot duct 52 is opened on the dashboard 4 facing the foot space in front of the seat cushion of the driver's seat 2. The air that has passed through the foot opening 115 from the ventilation passage 111 passes through the foot duct 52 and then is blown out into the vehicle interior from the foot outlet 43. The air blown out from the foot outlet 43 flows toward the left and right toes of the occupant 3 seated in the driver's seat 2 and the surroundings thereof.

One end of the defroster duct 53 is connected to the defroster opening 116, and the defroster outlet 41 is opened in the dashboard 4 facing the windshield. The air that has passed through the defroster opening 116 from the ventilation passage 111 passes through the defroster duct 53 and then is blown out into the vehicle interior from the defroster outlet 41. The air blown from the defroster outlet 41 flows toward the windshield or its surroundings.

In this way, the defroster outlet 41, the face outlet 42, and the foot outlet 43 are opened at different positions in the vehicle interior. Then, among the body parts of the occupant 3, the body part belonging to the upper body is most strongly affected by the air blown out from the face outlet 42. Further, among the body parts of the occupant 3, the left and right toes are most strongly affected by the air blown out from the foot outlet 43.

Further, as shown in FIG. 2, a wind direction adjusting plate 110 is attached to the face outlet 42. The wind direction adjusting plate 110 adjusts the direction of the air blown into the vehicle interior from the face outlet 42. Specifically, as the posture of the wind direction adjusting plate 110 changes, the direction of the air blown from the face outlet 42 changes in the vehicle width direction and the vehicle vertical direction. The wind direction actuator 110a is an actuator that drives the wind direction adjusting plate 110, and is controlled by the air conditioner ECU 40 as shown in FIG.

Further, as shown in FIG. 3, the thermal sensation adjusting device includes an outside air temperature sensor 22, an inside air temperature sensor 23, a solar radiation sensor 24, and a state setting unit 21. The outside air temperature sensor 22 outputs a detection signal according to the temperature of the air (that is, outside air) outside the vehicle interior. The inside air temperature sensor 23 outputs a detection signal according to the temperature of the air (that is, inside air) in the vehicle interior. The solar radiation sensor 24 outputs a detection signal according to the amount of solar radiation into the vehicle interior.

The state setting unit 21 is a device that receives an input operation of the occupant 3. Specifically, the state setting unit 21 has four

switches

211, 212, 213, and 214, each of which can be operated individually.

The air conditioner ECU 40 has a processing unit 401, a storage unit 402, and the like. The storage unit 402 includes various types of memory such as RAM, ROM, and flash memory. RAM is a writable volatile storage medium. The ROM is a non-writable non-volatile storage medium. Flash memory is a writable non-volatile storage medium. The processing unit 401 corresponding to the CPU executes a program (not shown) stored in the ROM and the flash memory, and uses the RAM as a work area during the execution to realize various processes described later. RAM, ROM, and flash memory are all non-transitional substantive storage media. Hereinafter, for the sake of simplicity, the processing performed by the processing unit 401 will be described as the processing performed by the air conditioner ECU 40.

The thermal stimulus unit composed of the air conditioning unit 5, the waist heater 6, the thigh heater 7, and the lower leg heater 8 is configured so that the distribution of the thermal stimulus given to the occupant 3 for each body part can be changed. .. In fact, the output of the waist heater 6, the thigh heater 7, and the lower leg heater 8 can be adjusted independently by the air conditioner ECU 40. Further, the temperature and air volume of the air sent by the air conditioning unit 5 into the vehicle interior can also be adjusted by the air conditioner ECU 40 independently of the operation of the waist heater 6, the thigh heater 7, and the lower leg heater 8. Further, the air conditioner ECU 40 can switch whether to blow out the air from the face outlet 42 or the foot outlet 43 by changing the outlet mode. Further, the air conditioner ECU 40 can adjust the direction of the air blown out from the face outlet 42 by controlling the direction of the wind direction adjusting plate 110. Thereby, for example, the distribution of the thermal stimulus for each body part can be adjusted so that the strongest thermal stimulus is given to any of the plurality of body parts 30 to 39 of the occupant 3.

The operation of the thermal sensation adjusting device configured as described above will be described below. The air conditioner ECU 40 individually gives a feeling of heat to a plurality of body parts of the occupant 3 as necessary in order to lead the mental state or the physical state of the occupant 3 to a state to be achieved.

For this purpose, the air conditioner ECU 40 executes the process shown in FIG. The air conditioner ECU 40 executes the process shown in FIG. 4 when the main switch of the vehicle 1 is on. The main switch is a switch for switching the main power of the vehicle 1 on and off. When the main switch is on, the main power supply of the vehicle 1 is turned on. When the process of FIG. 4 is being executed, the vehicle 1 may be running or may be stopped.

In the process of FIG. 4, the air conditioner ECU 40 first selects one mode from the four modes in step S110. Here, the mode refers to a mode representing a mental or physical condition desired to be achieved for the occupant 3. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 5, the four modes are a relax mode M1, a focus mode M2, a sleep mode B1, and an energy mode B2.

Relax mode M1 is a mode that calms the occupant's mind. As will be described later, in the relax mode M1, the thermal sensation adjusting device gives a thermal stimulus to the occupant 3 so that the occupant 3 can relax. For example, the relax mode M1 can be selected when the vehicle 1 is stopped or when the vehicle 1 is performing automatic driving that does not require any driving operation of the occupant 3.

Focus mode M2 is a mode that activates the occupant's spirit. As will be described later, in the focus mode M2, the thermal sensation adjusting device gives the occupant 3 a thermal stimulus so that the occupant 3 can concentrate on intellectual work such as driving operation of the vehicle 1.

Sleep mode B1 is a mode for resting the occupant's body. As will be described later, in the sleep mode B1, the thermal sensation adjusting device gives a thermal stimulus to the occupant 3 so that the occupant 3 can take a nap. For example, the sleep mode B1 can be selected when the vehicle 1 is stopped or when the vehicle 1 is performing automatic driving that does not require any driving operation of the occupant 3.

Energy mode B2 is a mode that activates the occupant's body and recovers the feeling of fatigue. As will be described later, in the energy mode B2, the thermal sensation adjusting device gives the occupant 3 a thermal stimulus so that the occupant 3 can concentrate on the driving operation of the vehicle 1.

As described above, the relax mode M1 and the focus mode M2 represent the mental state desired to be achieved for the occupant 3, and the sleep mode B1 and the energy mode B2 represent the physical state desired to be achieved for the occupant 3. Further, the relax mode M1 and the sleep mode B1 represent a resting state or a stable state, and the focus mode M2 and the energy mode B2 represent an active state or an awake state.

The air conditioner ECU 40 selects one of these four modes based on the operation content of the occupant 3 to the state setting unit 21. Specifically, when the switch 211 is operated by the occupant 3, the relax mode M1 is selected. Further, when the switch 212 is operated by the occupant 3, the focus mode M2 is selected. Further, when the switch 213 is operated by the occupant 3, the sleep mode B1 is selected. When the switch 214 is operated by the occupant 3, the energy mode B2 is selected. In this way, the occupant 3 can adjust the environment in the vehicle interior so as to be guided to the mental state or physical state desired by the occupant 3.

Subsequently, in step S120, the air conditioner ECU 40 determines the target SET * for each of the plurality of body parts of the occupant 3 based on the mode determined in step S110. Here, as shown in FIG. 1, the plurality of body parts of the occupant 3 are the head 30, the neck 31, the chest 32, the left and right upper arms 33, the left and right forearms 34, the left and right hands 35, the waist 36, and the left and right thighs 37. , Left and right lower leg 38, and left and right toe 39.

Specifically, the air conditioner ECU 40 first sets the target thermal sensation distribution as shown in FIGS. 6, 7, 8 and 9 according to the mode determined in step S110. The target heat sensation distribution is data representing a plurality of target values of the heat sensation for each of the plurality of body parts 30 to 39. The target thermal sensation distribution of each mode is stored in advance as a standard thermal sensation distribution in a storage unit 402 such as a ROM or a flash memory of the air conditioner ECU 40. The air conditioner ECU 40 sets the target thermal sensation distribution by reading the target thermal sensation distribution according to the determined mode from the storage unit 402.

6, FIG. 7, FIG. 8, and FIG. 9 are target thermal sensation distributions corresponding to the relax mode M1, the focus mode M2, the sleep mode B1, and the energy mode B2, respectively. In FIGS. 6 to 9, the vertical axis represents the body part and the horizontal axis represents the target value of the thermal sensation of the corresponding body part. The larger the target value of the feeling of heat, the warmer the feeling of heat in the corresponding body part. The smaller the target value of the feeling of heat, the cooler the feeling of heat in the corresponding body part.

The target heat sensation distribution corresponding to each mode is created as a distribution that the occupant 3 is expected to feel comfortable in the mental state or physical state of that mode. These distributions have been experimentally determined in advance to satisfy an unspecified number of occupants on average. By being created in this way, if the target thermal sensation distribution for a certain mode is realized, the state of the occupant 3 is guided so that the mental state or the physical state of the mode is realized.

In the four modes, the distribution of the target value of the feeling of heat over a plurality of body parts 30 to 39 is different from each other. Further, in any of the four modes, the target values of the heat sensation in the left and right thighs 37, the left and right lower legs 38, and the left and right toes 39 are higher than the target values of the heat sensation in the head 30 and the neck 31. ,large.

Also, the target value of the thermal sensation of the head 30 is different from each other regardless of which of the four modes is taken. Specifically, the target value of the thermal sensation of the head 30 is larger in the order of sleep mode B1, relax mode M1, energy mode B2, and focus mode M2. Further, the target values of the warmth of the body parts 30 to 39 in the sleep mode B1 are all the same as or larger than the target values of the warmth of the same body parts in the other modes.

In addition, the target value of the warmth of each body part except the left and right toes 39 is larger in the focus mode M2 than in the relax mode M1. In addition, the target value of the thermal sensation of each body part is larger in the energy mode B2 than in the sleep mode B1. This is because, in order to activate the mind or body, it is desirable to lower the sensible temperature than when resting.

In step S120, the air conditioner ECU 40 further sets the plurality of body parts from the target values of the heat sensations of the plurality of body parts included in the target heat sensation distribution determined as described above, using the corresponding table shown in FIG. To identify. Then, the specified SET * is set as the target SET *. That is, from the 10 target values of the feeling of heat, the 10 target SETs * corresponding to each are specified. In FIG. 10, the horizontal axis represents SET *, and the vertical axis represents the target value of the feeling of heat of the body part. The corresponding table used by the air conditioner ECU 40 is stored in advance in a storage unit 402 such as a ROM or a flash memory of the air conditioner ECU 40.

Here, SET * will be explained. SET * is a temperature index called the standard new effective temperature. SET * is obtained in consideration of six factors: temperature, humidity, radiation, airflow and metabolism on the human body side, and clothing amount on the environment side. SET * defines the standard environment for ASHRAE. When a person who was in the real environment moves to the standard environment, the temperature of the standard environment when he / she feels the same as the real environment is the SET * in the real environment. The details of SET * are not explained because they are well-known techniques. SET * has a one-to-one correspondence with the thermal sensation shown in the target thermal sensation distribution. Therefore, SET * is also an index expressing a feeling of heat.

Subsequently, the air conditioner ECU 40 calculates SET * in each of the plurality of body parts 30 to 39 of the occupant 3 in step S130. The 10 SET * calculated here are not the target value but the current value, that is, the current SET *.

Since the method of calculating the SET * value is well known, detailed description will be omitted. For example, the air conditioner ECU 40 calculates the current SET * of each of the body parts 30 to 39 of the occupant 3 from various sensors. Various sensors include a thermo camera 9, an outside air temperature sensor 22, an inside air temperature sensor 23, a solar radiation sensor 24, and a temperature sensor (not shown) that detects the temperature of the air blown out from the face air outlet 42 and the foot air outlet 43. There is an illustrated humidity sensor and the like. Further, the air conditioner ECU 40 may use information on the operation contents of various actuators in order to calculate the current SET * in each of the body parts 30 to 39. Examples of various actuators include a fan actuator 131a, an air mix actuator 16a, a blowout mode actuator 17a, an inside / outside air mode actuator 12a, a wind direction actuator 110a, and the like. Further, in the calculation of SET *, the amount of clothing and the amount of metabolism for each body part of the occupant 3 may be fixedly determined in advance or may be set by the occupant 3.

Subsequently, in step S140, the air conditioner ECU 40 calculates the difference between the target SET * of the body parts 30 to 39 calculated in step S120 and the SET * of the body parts 30 to 39 calculated in step S130. The calculated difference is made by subtracting SET * from the target SET * for the same body part. As a result, the difference between the target SET * and the SET * is calculated for each of the body parts 30 to 39.

Subsequently, in step S150, the air conditioner ECU 40 selects one of the differences calculated in step S140 that has the maximum absolute value.

Subsequently, in step S160, the air conditioner ECU 40 determines whether or not the absolute value of the difference selected in step S150 is within the permissible range. The permissible range is a range that is considered to be unnecessary to reduce the absolute value of the difference. Therefore, the permissible range is a range of zero or more and less than the reference value. When the air conditioner ECU 40 determines that the range is within the allowable range, the air conditioner ECU 40 returns to step S110.

When the step S110 is executed following the step S160, the air conditioner ECU 40 operates the

switches

211, 212, 213, and 214 if the occupant 3 has operated the state setting unit 21 after the previous step S110. Select the mode corresponding to. If it is not in operation, the same mode selected in the previous step S110 is selected.

If the air conditioner ECU 40 determines in step S160 that the range is not within the permissible range, the air conditioner ECU 40 proceeds to step S170. In step S170, the air conditioner ECU 40 selects a body part corresponding to the absolute value of the difference selected in step S150, that is, a body part having the maximum absolute value of the difference between the target SET * and SET * as the target body part. .. Then, a thermal stimulus is individually given to the target body part. Applying a thermal stimulus to a target body part individually means mainly to the target body part so that the SET * of the target body part changes more than the other body parts among the body parts 30 to 39. It means giving a thermal stimulus.

For example, it is assumed that the target body part is one of the head 30, the neck 31, the chest 32, the left and right upper arms 33, the left and right forearms 34, and the left and right hands 35. In that case, the air conditioner ECU 40 controls the blowout mode actuator 17a to set the blowout mode to the face mode. Further, the air conditioner ECU 40 controls the wind direction actuator 110a to change the posture of the wind direction adjusting plate 110 so that the air blown from the face outlet 42 mainly hits the target body part.

Further, the air conditioner ECU 40 mainly gives a thermal stimulus to the target body part by adjusting the temperature of the air blown from the face outlet 42 to the target body part. For example, if the difference between the target SET * and the SET * in the target body part is a positive value, the target blowout is performed at a temperature higher than the temperature inside the vehicle body detected by the internal air temperature sensor 23 so as to increase the SET *. Set the temperature TAO. If the difference between the target SET * and the SET * in the target body part is a negative value, the target blowout is performed at a temperature higher than the temperature inside the vehicle body detected by the internal air temperature sensor 23 so as to reduce the SET *. Set the temperature TAO.

Posture data showing the posture of the wind direction adjusting plate 110 when each of the head 30, neck 31, chest 32, left and right upper arms 33, left and right forearms 34, and left and right hands 35 is a target body part. Is recorded in the air conditioner ECU 40 in advance. Specifically, it is recorded in a storage unit 402 such as a ROM or a flash memory of the air conditioner ECU 40. The air conditioner ECU 40 determines the attitude of the wind direction adjusting plate 110 using the attitude data. The value of the posture data may be modified by the setting operation of the occupant 3. Further, the value of the posture data may be corrected based on the positions of the body parts 30 to 35 captured by the thermo camera 9.

The air conditioner ECU 40 determines the air flow amount, the air mix ratio, and the inside / outside air ratio of the centrifugal fan 131 by a well-known method according to the target blowing temperature TAO. Then, the fan actuator 131a, the air mix actuator 16a, and the inside / outside air mode actuator 12a are controlled so as to realize the determined amount. The higher the target blowout temperature TAO, the warmer the occupant feels, and the condition of the blown air is adjusted. In addition, the lower the target blowout temperature TAO, the more the condition of the blown air is adjusted so that the occupant feels warmer.

Further, for example, when the target body part is any of the waist 36, the left and right thighs 37, and the left and right lower legs 38, the air conditioner ECU 40 adjusts the output of the heater corresponding to the target body part. , Gives a thermal stimulus mainly to the target body part.

Specifically, if the difference between the target SET * and the SET * in the target body part is a positive value, the output of the corresponding heater is increased so as to increase the SET *. If the difference between the target SET * and the SET * in the target body part is a negative value, the output of the corresponding heater is reduced so as to reduce the SET *. The heaters corresponding to the waist 36, the left and right thighs 37, and the left and right lower legs 38 are the waist heater 6, the thigh heater 7, and the lower leg heater 8, respectively.

At this time, the air conditioner ECU 40 controls the fan actuator 131a to stop the centrifugal fan 131 so that air does not flow from the defroster outlet 41, the face outlet 42, and the foot outlet 43 to the occupant 3. Good.

Further, for example, when the target portion is the left and right toes 39, the air conditioner ECU 40 controls the blowout mode actuator 17a to set the blowout mode to the foot mode. Further, the air conditioner ECU 40 mainly gives a thermal stimulus to the left and right toes 39 by adjusting the temperature of the air blown from the foot outlet 43 to the left and right toes 39. The setting of the target blowout temperature TAO when giving a thermal stimulus is the same as when each of the head 30, neck 31, chest 32, left and right upper arms 33, left and right forearms 34, and left and right hands 35 is the target body part. Is.

After step S170, the air conditioner ECU 40 returns to step S110. When the step S110 is executed following the step S170, the air conditioner ECU 40 operates the

switches

The air conditioner ECU 40 reduces the absolute value of the difference by individually giving a thermal stimulus to the body part having the largest absolute value of the difference between the target SET * and SET * at each time point by such processing. By repeating this, the body part having the largest absolute value of the difference between the target SET * and SET * changes from moment to moment. Therefore, the absolute value of the difference between the target SET * and the SET * is individually reduced in each of the body parts 30 to 39. As a result, the absolute value of the difference between the target SET * and SET * is settled within the permissible range for any body part. That is, the similarity between the distribution of SET * by body part and the distribution of target SET * by body part increases. As a result, the occupant 3 is guided to the mental state or the physical state corresponding to the mode determined in step S110.

At this time, if the mode determined in step S110 is different, the target thermal sensation distribution is different, so the distribution of SET * of the body parts 30 to 39 realized by the thermal stimulation in step S170 is also different.

In particular, the target value of the thermal sensation of the head 30 is different from each other regardless of which of the four modes is taken. Therefore, in the same vehicle interior environment, if the mode selected in step S110 is different, the thermal stimulus given to the head 30 is different. The same applies to the other body parts 31 to 39. That is, it is assumed that the target value of the feeling of heat is different between a certain mode and another mode for a certain body part. In that case, in the same vehicle interior environment, the thermal stimulus given to the head 30 differs depending on whether the mode selected in step S110 is the certain mode or the other mode.

In this way, the air conditioner ECU 40 detects the thermal sensation for each body part of the occupant 3 for each mode, and aims at the target thermal sensation that is different for each mode and each body part, so that the air conditioning unit 5, the waist heater 6, and the large The thigh heater 7 and the lower leg heater 8 can be controlled.

As described above, the air conditioner ECU 40 selects one mode from the relax mode M1, the focus mode M2, the sleep mode B1, and the energy mode B2. Then, the operation of the air conditioning unit 5, the waist heater 6, the thigh heater 7, and the lower leg heater 8 is controlled based on one target heat sensation distribution corresponding to one selected mode. Then, the air conditioner ECU 40 gives different thermal stimuli to at least one body part if the selected mode is different. By doing so, it is possible to adjust the distribution of the thermal sensation of the body parts 30 to 39 of the occupant 3 according to the mental state or the physical condition of the occupant 3 to be achieved.

Specifically, the air conditioner ECU 40 gives different thermal stimuli to at least the body part of the head 30 regardless of the selected mode. The state of the occupant 3's brain has a strong correlation with both mental and physical activity. Therefore, different modes selected are designed to give different thermal stimuli to the head 30, so that the occupant 3 can achieve a more suitable form for the mental or physical condition of the occupant 3. It is possible to adjust the distribution of thermal sensation in multiple parts of the body.

Of course, if the selected mode is different for any of the body parts other than the head 30, at least the body part of the head 30 may be given different thermal stimuli.

Further, the air conditioner ECU 40 targets the one body part with the value of the heat sensation targeting the one body part based on the current value of the heat sensation targeting the one body part. A thermal stimulus is given to the one body part so as to approach the target value of the thermal sensation. In this way, by making the value of the feeling of heat approach the target value based on the current value of the feeling of heat, the occupant 3 is more effectively guided to the mental state or the physical state of the occupant to be achieved. can do.

Note that the air conditioner ECU 40 corresponds to the selection unit by executing step S110, and corresponds to the stimulus control unit by executing step S170.

(Second Embodiment)
Next, the second embodiment will be described. In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 11, a display device 60 and a touch panel 61 are added to the configuration of the first embodiment.

The display device 60 is a device that shows an image to the occupants of the vehicle. The display device 60 may be attached to the instrument panel or dashboard of the vehicle, or may be attached to the steering wheel. Alternatively, the display device 60 may be a head-up display that makes the occupant look as if there is an image as a virtual image in front of the windshield by utilizing the reflection of light in the windshield of the vehicle.

Alternatively, the display device 60 may be a terminal carried by the occupants of the vehicle. In that case, the air conditioner ECU 40 controls the display content of the display device 60 by wirelessly communicating with the display device 60.

The touch panel 61 is an operating device operated by the occupant according to the content of the image displayed by the display device 60. When a predetermined portion of the touch panel 61 is operated by an occupant, the image displayed by the display device 60 changes in tandem. The touch panel 61 is arranged so as to overlap the display screen of the display device 60.

Further, in the air conditioner ECU 40 of the present embodiment, the processing content of step S120 is changed in the processing of FIG. 4 shown in the first embodiment. In step 120 following step S110, the air conditioner ECU 40 determines the target SET * for each of the plurality of body parts of the occupant 3 based on the mode determined in step S110. This point is the same as that of the first embodiment, but the details of step S120 are different.

Specifically, the air conditioner ECU 40 performs the process shown in FIG. 12 in step S120. In the process of FIG. 12, the air conditioner ECU 40 first sets the target value of the feeling of heat for each of the plurality of body parts of the occupant 3 in step S122 according to the mode determined in step S110, based on the mode determined in step S110. decide. In the present embodiment, the plurality of body parts of the target occupant 3 are the head 30, neck 31, chest 32, left and right upper arms 33, left and right forearms 34, left and right hands 35, waist 36, and left and right large as shown in FIG. In addition to the thigh 37, the left and right lower legs 38, and the left and right toes 39, the back, buttocks, and the back of the thigh are also included. That is, the number of body parts of the target occupant 3 is 13.

Specifically, the air conditioner ECU 40 first has a target heat sensation distribution, which is a distribution of target values of the heat sensation, as shown in FIGS. 13, 14, 15, and 16, according to the mode determined in step S110. To set. The target heat sensation distribution of each mode is stored in advance in the storage unit 402 of the air conditioner ECU 40 as a standard heat sensation distribution. The air conditioner ECU 40 sets the target thermal sensation distribution by reading the target thermal sensation distribution according to the determined mode from the storage unit 402.

The diamond marks in FIGS. 13 to 16 are the target thermal sensation distributions (that is, default values) of the relax mode M1, the focus mode M2, the sleep mode B1, and the energy mode B2 determined in step S122, respectively. The format of the display in FIGS. 13 to 16 is the same as that in FIGS. 6 to 9. Head 30, neck 31, chest 32, left and right upper arms 33, left and right forearms 34, left and right hands 35, waist 36, left and right thighs 37, left and right lower legs 38, left and right legs in each mode M1, M2, B1, B2 The target value of the feeling of warmth of 39 is the same as that of the first embodiment. The back, buttocks, and back of the thigh are body parts located on the contact surface with the driver's seat 2, unlike the other body parts 31 to 39.

Subsequently, in step S124, the air conditioner ECU 40 determines the season. That is, it is determined whether the current season is summer, winter, or an interphase that is neither summer nor winter.

The season determination may be performed based on the season input by the occupant 3 using, for example, an input device (not shown). Alternatively, the air conditioner ECU 40 reads the calendar data that defines whether each date belongs to summer, winter, or intermediate period from the storage unit 402, and applies the current date to the read calendar data to obtain the current date. The season may be determined. Alternatively, the air conditioner ECU 40 may determine the current season based on the information from the outside air temperature sensor 22, for example, by using the correspondence map between the outside air temperature and the season stored in the storage unit 402.

Subsequently, in step S126, the air conditioner ECU 40 corrects the target value of the thermal sensation of each body part determined in step S122, if necessary, according to the season determined in step S124. Specifically, if the season determined in step S124 is an interphase, no correction is performed.

If the season determined in step S124 is summer, the change such as the triangle mark in the figure corresponding to the mode determined in step S110 in FIGS. 13 to 16 is changed to the default value of the diamond mark in the same figure. Set the target thermal sensation distribution as a result of the above.

For example, when the relax mode is determined in step S110, as shown in FIG. 13, the target value of the warmth of the back, buttocks, and back of the thigh is changed from "warm" to 2 with respect to the default value of the diamond mark. The level is corrected to cool "neutral". At this time, the target value of the feeling of heat of the body parts other than the back, buttocks, and the back of the thigh is maintained without being corrected.

Further, for example, when the sleep mode is determined in step S110, as shown in FIG. 15, the target value of the warmth of the back, buttocks, and back of the thigh is changed from "warm" to the default value of the diamond mark. It is corrected to "slightly warm" which is one level cool.

The reason for doing this is that in the summer, it is easy to sweat at the contact part that is pressed against the driver's seat 2 when sitting. The target values for the feeling of heat on the back, buttocks, and back of the thighs are set to be cooler than in the middle period so that the heat comfort is not significantly impaired by sweating.

Sweating causes stuffiness, which greatly affects the comfort of people. Therefore, in the above-mentioned contact portion, the upper limit is the feeling of heat that does not cause sweating in the mode setting in which the feeling of comfort aimed at relaxation, concentration, and nap is closely related. Further, in the above-mentioned contact portion, when the activation is aimed at like energy, the activation is prioritized, sweating is allowed, and the minimum comfort can be ensured, and the upper limit of warmth is set.

When the focus mode and the energy mode are set in step S110, as shown in FIGS. 14 and 16, the heat of the back, buttocks, and back of the thigh is heated even if the season determined in step S124 is summer. The target value of the feeling does not have to be corrected. Alternatively, the target values of those feelings of heat may be corrected in the same manner as in the relax mode and the sleep mode.

Further, for example, when the season determined in step S124 is summer and the focus mode is determined in step S110, the target value of the warmth of the head is set from the default value of the diamond mark as shown in FIG. It will be corrected. That is, the default value "cool" is corrected to "slightly cold" which is one level cool. At this time, the target value of the feeling of warmth of the body part other than the head is maintained without being corrected. This is done because the head receives radiant heat from the sunlight through the window during driving, which greatly affects the comfort feeling of the occupant 3 due to the blazing fire and the like. In this way, the target value of the warmth of the head can be changed so as to compensate for the influence of solar radiation on the feeling of comfort.

Further, for example, when the season determined in step S124 is summer and the sleep mode is determined in step S110, as shown in FIG. 15, a plurality of body parts 31-39 with respect to the default value of the diamond mark. The target value of the feeling of warmth is corrected to a value that is one level cooler. At this time, the target value of the thermal sensation of the body part of the head 30 is maintained without being corrected. This is because, in the sleep mode, it is highly possible that the occupant 3 is in a posture of lying on his back with the seat back of the driver's seat 2 greatly tilted. In such a posture, the head is less susceptible to sunlight than in the driving posture. Therefore, the body parts other than the head receive the radiant heat from the sunlight through the window, which greatly affects the comfort feeling of the occupant 3. In this way, the target value of the warmth of the head can be changed so as to compensate for the influence of solar radiation on the feeling of comfort.

Further, for example, even if the season determined in step S124 is summer, if the energy mode is determined in step S110, the target value of the thermal sensation of any body part is maintained without being corrected.

The reason for doing this is to prevent people from getting cold due to excessive sweating. In the summer energy mode, the body of the occupant 3 is activated and sweat is likely to occur. In such a case, the correction to the warmer side causes unacceptable sweating, and when sweat chilling occurs, the comfort feeling of the occupant may be impaired.

If the season determined in step S124 is winter, the changes such as the circles in the figure corresponding to the mode determined in step S110 in FIGS. 13 to 16 are changed to the default values of the diamond marks in the same figure. Set the target thermal sensation distribution as a result of the above.

For example, when the relax mode or the focus mode is determined in step S110, as shown in FIGS. 13 and 14, the left and right hands 35 and the left and right toes 39, which are the peripheral parts of the human body, are heated with respect to the default values of the diamond marks. The target value of the feeling is corrected to a value that is one level warmer.

In this way, the target value of the warmth of the human body peripheral part is corrected to be warm because the peripheral part becomes cold in winter because the peripheral blood flow is narrowed to maintain the body temperature of the trunk. By warming the area around the peripheral part, the discomfort caused by the coldness of the peripheral part can be improved. By doing so, it is possible to create a thermal distribution suitable for the purpose while ensuring thermal comfort.

When the sleep mode is set in step S110, as shown in FIGS. 15 and 16, even if the season determined in step S124 is winter, the target of the warmth of the left and right hands 35 and the left and right toes 39 The value does not have to be corrected. Alternatively, the target values of those feelings of heat may be corrected in the same manner as in the relax mode and the focus mode.
In addition, since it is difficult to sweat in winter, when the energy mode is set in step S110, the target value of the warmth of the body part which is set to be cooler than "warm" by default. Is corrected to a value that is one level warmer than the default. The body parts that are set cooler than "warm" by default are the parts excluding the contact areas (ie, the back, buttocks, and back of the thighs) that do not cause excessive heat sensation.

Information on how to correct the target value of heat sensation with respect to the default value in summer and winter is recorded in advance in the storage unit 402 as a seasonal table for each mode and each body part. .. The air conditioner ECU 40 reads out this seasonal table from the storage unit 402 and uses it for correcting the target thermal sensation distribution according to the season determined by the seasonal determination.

In step S128 following step S126, the air conditioner ECU 40 corrects the target thermal sensation distribution according to the interlocking data. The interlocking data is data indicating a correction amount of a target value of a feeling of heat in each of a plurality of body parts, and is set in the storage unit 402 of the air conditioner ECU 40 based on a correction operation of the occupant 3 in the process of FIG. 17 described later. It has been recorded. The initial value of the interlocking data before being set in the process of FIG. 17 may be zero in all body parts or may be other than that. The interlocking data is data in which the value after the change of the target thermal sensation distribution in each mode can be specified.

For example, it is assumed that the interlocking data indicates that the target value of the thermal sensation of the head 30 is corrected to one step cooler and the target value of the thermal sensation of other body parts is maintained. In that case, the air conditioner ECU 40 corrects the target value of the heat sensation of the head 30 one step cooler with respect to the target heat sensation distribution determined in step S122 and corrected as necessary in step S126, and the like. Do not correct the target value of the feeling of heat of the body part.

Subsequently, the air conditioner ECU 40 proceeds to step S129. Then, from the target values of the thermal sensation of a plurality of body parts included in the target thermal sensation distribution determined in step S122 and corrected as necessary in S126 and S128, a plurality of the target values of the thermal sensation of a plurality of body parts are used using the correspondence table shown in FIG. Identify the SET * of the body part of the body. Then, the specified SET * is set as the target SET *. That is, 13 target SETs * corresponding to each are specified from the 13 target values of the feeling of heat. The corresponding table used by the air conditioner ECU 40 is stored in advance in the storage unit 402 of the air conditioner ECU 40. After step S129, the process of FIG. 12 is completed, and the air conditioner ECU 40 proceeds to step S130.

Further, the air conditioner ECU 40 executes the process shown in FIG. 17 in parallel with the process of FIG. 4 by the multitask process in addition to the process of FIG. In the process of FIG. 17, the air conditioner ECU 40 first displays the target heat sensation distribution, the current heat sensation distribution, and the like on the display screen of the display device 60 in step S205.

Specifically, as shown in FIG. 18, the air conditioner ECU 40 displays a mode display image 501, a human body image 502, a batch minus button 503a, a batch plus button 503b, a batch slide bar 503c, and a batch on the display screen of the display device 60. Display the slider 503d.

Further, as shown in FIG. 18, the air conditioner ECU 40 displays a plurality of body part widgets on the display screen. Each body part widget includes a part-specific minus button 504a, a part-specific plus button 504b, a part-specific slide bar 504c, a part-specific slider 504d, and a current indicator 504e.

The mode display image 501 is an image showing the mode currently selected in the process of FIG. 4 among the four modes. In the example of FIG. 18, it is indicated that the relax mode is selected by highlighting the name of the mode.

The human body image 502 is an image for showing which body part of the occupant 3 each of the plurality of body part widgets corresponds to. For this purpose, the human body image 502 has a shape that imitates the human body.

The batch minus button 503a and the batch plus button 503b are images that the occupant 3 can select and operate using the touch panel 61. The batch slide bar 503c is a bar-shaped image extending from the batch minus button 503a in the direction of the batch plus button 503b.

The batch slider 503d is an image arranged so as to be superimposed on the batch slide bar 503c. The batch slider 503d can be moved along the extending direction of the batch slide bar 503c according to the operation of the occupant 3 with respect to the batch minus button 503a and the batch plus button 503b.

The part-specific minus button 504a and the part-specific plus button 504b are images that the occupant 3 can select and operate using the touch panel 61. The part-specific slide bar 504c is a rod-shaped image extending in the direction of the part-specific plus button 504b from the part-specific minus button 504a belonging to the same body part widget.

The part-specific slider 504d is an image that is superposed on the part-specific slide bar 504c that belongs to the same body part widget. The part-specific slider 504d can be moved along the extending direction of the part-specific slide bar 504c according to the operation of the occupant 3 with respect to the part-specific minus button 504a and the part-specific plus button 504b belonging to the same body part widget.

The current indicator 504e is arranged so as to overlap the slide bar 504c for each part belonging to the same body part widget, and the position of the slide bar 504c for each part can be changed according to the current SET * calculated in step S130. Image.

A plurality of body part widgets are arranged side by side in the vertical direction of the human body image 502 next to the human body image 502. With such an arrangement, the correspondence between the plurality of body part widgets and the body parts targeted by the body part widgets is shown.

In the example of the display screen of FIG. 18, six body part widgets targeting six representative body parts out of the thirteen body parts in which the target value of the target heat sensation is set in the present embodiment are displayed. It is represented. For example, the body part widgets from the top to the bottom may target the head, chest, left and right hands, hips, left and right thighs, and left and right toes, respectively. The display screen may include 13 body part widgets for each of the 13 body parts.

In step S205, the air conditioner ECU 40 controls the display positions of the batch slider 503d, the slider 504d for each part, and the current status indicator 504e as follows.

The air conditioner ECU 40 determines the position of the batch slider 503d on the batch slide bar 503c based on the batch correction data recorded in the storage unit 402. The batch correction data is data having one correction value related to a feeling of heat (for example, a value of one-step warming). Specifically, the air conditioner ECU 40 determines the position of the batch slider 503d so that the larger the correction value of the feeling of heat included in the batch correction data, the closer the batch slider 503d is to the batch plus button 503b. For example, when the correction value is zero, the position of the batch slider 503d may be determined at a position equidistant from the batch minus button 503a and the batch plus button 503b. As will be described later, the batch correction data is updated as necessary in step S230 of FIG.

Further, the air conditioner ECU 40 determines the positions of the plurality of part-specific sliders 504d along the extending direction of the part-specific slide bars 504c belonging to the same body part widget as follows.

First, the air conditioner ECU 40 determines the target value of the thermal sensation of each body part by the same process as in steps S122, S124, S126, and S128 of FIG. 12, and further corrects it as necessary. Then, the position of the corresponding part-specific slider 504d is determined according to the target value of the thermal sensation of each body part obtained as a result. At this time, the position of the slider 504d for each part is determined so that the higher the target value of the feeling of warmth, the closer to the plus button 504b for each part that targets the same body part. As described above, the positions of the plurality of site-specific sliders 504d along the extending direction of the site-specific slide bars 504c belonging to the same body part widget are determined.

Further, the air conditioner ECU 40 determines the position of the current indicator 504e along the extending direction of the part-specific slide bar 504c belonging to the same body part widget based on the latest current SET * calculated in step S130 of FIG.

Specifically, for the part-specific slider 504d that targets each body part, the current value of the feeling of heat is specified from the latest current SET * of the body part using the corresponding table shown in FIG. Then, the position of the current state indicator 504e is determined so that the higher the value of the specified thermal sensation, the closer to the part-specific plus button 504b that targets the body part.

In step S215 following step S205, the air conditioner ECU 40 determines whether or not the operation of changing the target value of the feeling of heat for the touch panel 61 has been performed within a predetermined period. The predetermined period is, for example, the period from the execution opportunity of step S215 one time before this time to the present. If this is the first execution opportunity of step S215 since the process of FIG. 17 has started, the period from the start of the process of FIG. 17 to the present is a predetermined period.

For the operation of changing the target value of the feeling of heat, one of the batch minus button 503a, the batch plus button 503b, the minus button 504a for a plurality of parts, and the plus button 504b for a plurality of parts is selected by using the touch panel 61. It is an operation.

If the operation for changing the target value of the feeling of heat for the touch panel 61 is not performed within the predetermined period, the process returns to step S205. When the operation of changing the target value of the feeling of heat for the touch panel 61 is performed within a predetermined period, the process proceeds to step S218.

In step S218, it is determined whether or not the change layer determined in step S215 is a batch operation. The batch operation is to operate either the batch minus button 503a or the batch plus button 503b. The operation that is not a batch operation is a part-specific operation that operates either the part-specific minus button 504a or the part-specific plus button 504b. If it is determined that the operation is not a batch operation, the process proceeds to step S220, and if it is determined that the operation is not a batch operation, the process proceeds to step S225.

In step S220, the value of the interlocking data described in step S128 of the process of FIG. 12 is changed according to the content of the operation for each part, overwritten and recorded in the storage unit 402, and the process returns to step S205. As a result, the value of the interlocking data used in step S128 of the process of FIG. 12 and step S205 of the process of FIG. 17 to be executed later changes.

Specifically, when it is determined in step S215 that the change operation has been performed due to the selection of the minus button 504a for each part, the interlocking data is updated. That is, the correction amount of the target value of the feeling of heat of only the body part corresponding to the minus button 504a for each part in the interlocking data is changed by one step in the direction of cooling and overwritten and recorded.

Further, when it is determined in step S215 that the change operation has been performed due to the selection of the plus button 504b for each part, the interlocking data is updated. That is, the correction amount of the target value of the feeling of heat of only the body part corresponding to the plus button 504b for each part in the interlocking data is overwritten and recorded by changing it by one step in the warming direction.

The linked data changed in this way is used in step S128 of the process of FIG. 12 to be executed later, as described above. Further, the interlocking data changed in this way is used in step S205 of the process of FIG. 17 to be executed later, as described above.

That is, the correction amount for the target value of the thermal sensation according to the operation of the occupant 3 is updatablely stored as a learning value in the storage unit 402 and is used for the thermal sensation control and display. Moreover, this interlocking data is commonly used in all four modes.

In step S225, the value of the interlocking data is changed and overwritten and recorded in the storage unit 402 according to the contents of the batch operation, and the process proceeds to step S230. As a result, the value of the interlocking data used in step S128 of the process of FIG. 12 and step S205 of the process of FIG. 17 to be executed later changes.

Specifically, when it is determined in step S215 that the change operation has been performed due to the selection of the batch minus button 503a, the correction amount of the target value of the thermal sensation of all the body parts in the interlocking data is set. Overwrite and record by changing one step in the direction of coolness. Further, when it is determined that the change operation has been performed in step S215 due to the selection of the batch plus button 503b, the correction amount of the target value of the thermal sensation of all the body parts in the interlocking data is warmed. Overwrite recording by changing the direction by one step.

In these specific examples, the air conditioner ECU 40 corrects the target value of the thermal sensation of only all the body parts displayed on the display screen of the display device 60 in step S205, not all the body parts in the interlocking data. , It may be changed and overwritten.

In step S230 following step S225, the air conditioner ECU 40 changes the value of the batch correction data according to the content of the batch operation, overwrites and records it in the storage unit 402, and returns to step S205. As a result, the value of the batch correction data used in step S205, which is executed later, changes.

Specifically, when it is determined in step S215 that the change operation has been performed due to the selection of the batch minus button 503a, the correction value included in the batch correction data is changed by one step in the cool direction. Overwrite and record. Further, when it is determined that the change operation has been performed in step S215 due to the selection of the batch plus button 503b, the correction value included in the batch correction data is changed by one step in the warming direction and overwritten and recorded. ..

The batch correction data changed in this way is used in step S205 of the process of FIG. 17 to be executed later, as described above. That is, the collective correction amount for the target value of the feeling of heat according to the operation of the occupant 3 is stored in the storage unit 402 as a learning value and is used for displaying the feeling of heat. Moreover, this interlocking data is commonly used in all four modes.

Here, an example will be described in which an operation of changing the correction amount of the target value of the feeling of heat is performed only for a specific body part. For example, when the correction amount of the target value of the feeling of heat is zero in all the body parts in the interlocking data, the occupant 3 uses the touch panel 61 to display the minus button for each part in the body part widget at the top of the display screen. It is assumed that 504a is selected. It is assumed that the head 30 is the target of the minus button 504a for each part. At this time, it is assumed that the relax mode M1 is selected. In this example, the relax mode M1 corresponds to the first mode.

In this case, the air conditioner ECU 40 determines that there is a change operation in step S215 of FIG. 17, proceeds from step 218 to step S220, and changes the correction amount of only the head 30 in the interlocking data by one step in the cool direction. Overwrite recording is performed in the storage unit 402. As a result, the correction amount of only the head 30 in the interlocking data is updated.

Then, in step S205 immediately after that, based on the corrected amount of only the head 30 updated in this way, as shown in FIG. 19, on the display screen of the display device 60, each part belonging to the body part widget of the head 30 Move the slider 504d one step in the cool direction. In this way, the correction amount of the target value of the feeling of heat for each part by the occupant 3 is reflected in the display. In FIG. 19, the broken line 92 extending from the part-specific slider 504d is virtually shown to show the difference between the target value before the update and the target value after the update, and is actually shown by the display device 60. It is not displayed on the display screen.

Further, the air conditioner ECU 40 corrects the target value of the thermal sensation of the head 30 based on the correction amount of the head 30 in the updated interlocking data in step S128 of FIG. 12, and further corrects the target value of the thermal sensation of the head 30 in step S130-S170 of FIG. Then, the thermal stimulus is controlled to reflect the updated correction amount of the head 30. Such an operation is the same even when the correction amount of the body part other than the head 30 is updated, except that the target body part is different.

Further, for example, after the correction amount of the target value of the thermal sensation of the head 30 is updated as described above, as a result of the occupant 3 operating the state setting unit 21, the air conditioner ECU 40 selects a different mode in step S110. Suppose you did. As a result, for example, it is assumed that the selected mode is changed from the relax mode M1 to the sleep mode B1. In this example, sleep mode B1 corresponds to the second mode.

Even in that case, the linked data is applied to all modes in common. Therefore, in the subsequent step S205 of FIG. 17, the air conditioner ECU 40 follows the interlocking data in which the correction amount of the head 30 is set to be one step cooler, as shown in FIG. 20, even in the changed sleep mode B1. Is displayed. That is, the slider 504d for each part is displayed so that the target value of the thermal sensation of only the head 30 shows the target thermal sensation distribution corrected by one step to the cool eyes with respect to the standard thermal sensation distribution of the sleep mode B1. In FIG. 20, the broken line 91 extending from the part-specific slider 504d is virtually shown to show the difference between the target value in the standard thermal sensation distribution and the corrected target value, and is actually a display device. It is not displayed on the display screen of 60.

Next, an example will be described in which an operation of collectively changing the correction amount of the target value of the feeling of heat is performed for a plurality of body parts. For example, it is assumed that the occupant 3 selects the batch minus button 503a on the display screen using the touch panel 61 when the correction amount of the target value of the feeling of heat is zero in all the body parts in the interlocking data. At this time, it is assumed that the relax mode M1 is selected. In this example, the relax mode M1 corresponds to the first mode.

In this case, the air conditioner ECU 40 determines in step S215 of FIG. 17 that there is a change operation, and proceeds from step S218 to step S225. Then, the correction amount of all the body parts in the interlocking data or the correction amount of only all the body parts displayed on the display screen is changed by one step in the cooling direction and overwritten and recorded in the storage unit 402. .. As a result, the correction amount of each body part in the interlocking data is updated. Then, in step S230, the air conditioner ECU 40 changes the value of the correction value in the batch correction data to one step cooler than the current value and overwrites and records it in the storage unit 402.

Then, in step S205 immediately after that, based on the corrected amount of each body part updated in this way, as shown in FIG. 21, on the display screen, the part-specific slider 504d belonging to all the displayed body part widgets is displayed. Move one step in the cooler direction. At the same time, based on the batch correction data, the position of the batch slider 503d is moved by one step in a cooler direction than before. At this time, as shown in FIG. 21, the default position indicator 503e, which shows the position of the batch slider 503d at the start of the process of FIG. 17, may be displayed on the display screen.

In this way, the correction amount of the target value of the collective thermal sensation over a plurality of parts by the occupant 3 is reflected in the display. The broken line 90 in FIG. 21 is virtually shown to show the difference between the target value before the update and the target value after the update, and is not actually displayed on the display screen of the display device 60. ..

Further, the air conditioner ECU 40 corrects the target value of the thermal sensation of each body part based on the updated interlocking data in step S128 of FIG. 12, and further updates each body part in step S130-S170 of FIG. The thermal stimulus is controlled to reflect the correction amount of.

Further, for example, after the correction amount of the target value of each body part is updated according to the operation of the batch slider 503d as described above, as a result of the occupant 3 operating the state setting unit 21, the air conditioner ECU 40 has been operated in step S110 until now. Suppose you select a different mode. As a result, for example, it is assumed that the selected mode is changed from the relax mode M1 to the sleep mode B1. In this example, sleep mode B1 corresponds to the second mode.

Even in that case, the linked data is applied to all modes in common. Therefore, in the subsequent step S205 of FIG. 17, the air conditioner ECU 40 follows the interlocking data in which the correction amount of each body part is set to one step cooler even in the changed sleep mode B1 as shown in FIG. Is displayed. That is, the slider 504d for each part is displayed so that the target value of the heat sensation of each body part shows the target heat sensation distribution corrected by one step to the cool eyes with respect to the standard heat sensation distribution of the sleep mode B1. The broken line 90 in FIG. 22 is virtually shown to show the difference between the target value in the standard thermal sensation distribution and the corrected target value, and is not displayed on the display screen of the display device 60.

In the thermal sensation adjusting device, the inventor of the present application takes over and reflects the change operation by the occupant in the later target thermal sensation distribution adjustment for the purpose of finely controlling the thermal sensation stimulus according to the preference of each occupant's thermal sensation. We examined learning techniques.

In the thermal sensation control device of the first embodiment, when the conventional learning technique is simply applied, the thermal sensation of a specific body part (for example, the head) for a certain purpose (for example, to calm the mind). You will learn the target value. However, the learning is not reflected in the target value of the thermal sensation of the body part for another purpose (for example, wanting to activate the body). According to the study of the inventor of the present application, when the occupant changes the thermal stimulus to a certain body part, he / she tends to prefer to change the thermal stimulus to the body part for another purpose as well. Therefore, it is not possible to efficiently learn the change in the target thermal sensation distribution by simply applying the conventional learning technique.

Therefore, in order to efficiently reflect the occupant's preference for heat sensation in each heat sensation distribution, interlocking data is introduced in this embodiment.

Specifically, when the first mode is selected, the storage unit stores the interlocking data according to the change operation when there is a change operation with respect to the target thermal sensation distribution of the first mode. The department remembers. Then, the changing unit changes the target thermal sensation distribution of the first mode based on the interlocking data when the first mode is selected. At the same time, when the second mode is selected, the change unit interlocks with the change operation for the target heat sensation distribution of the first mode based on the interlocking data, and the target heat sensation distribution of the second mode. To change. By doing so, it is possible to efficiently learn the change of the target thermal sensation distribution by the occupant.

Further, when a change operation is performed in which a specific body part is selected as the change operation of the occupant 3, the air conditioner ECU 40 changes the target value of the thermal sensation of the one body part based on the change operation. The change operation for selecting one specific body part corresponds to the operation for the part-specific minus button 504a and the part-specific plus button 504b. By doing so, detailed learning for each body part becomes possible.

Further, when a change operation that does not select a specific body part is performed as the change operation of the occupant 3, the air conditioner ECU 40 changes the target value of the thermal sensation of two or more body parts based on the change operation. The change operation that does not select a specific body part corresponds to the operation for the batch minus button 503a and the batch plus button 503b. By doing so, it is less troublesome and simple adjustment is realized as compared with fine adjustment for each body part.

Further, the air conditioner ECU 40 changes the target heat sensation distribution of the selected mode according to the determined season. By doing so, it is possible to appropriately adjust the thermal sensation stimulus according to the seasonal fluctuation.

In the present embodiment, the air conditioner ECU 40 functions as a change unit by executing step S128 in FIG. 12, functions as a season determination unit by executing step S124, and corresponds to the season by executing step S126. Functions as a department.

Further, in the present embodiment, even if the Peltier element provided in the central portion in the vertical direction and the central portion in the horizontal direction of the seat back and heats the back portion at one time and cools it at another time, gives a thermal stimulus to the back portion. Good. Further, even if the Peltier element provided behind the center of the seat cushion in the front-rear direction and heats the buttocks at one time and cools at another time, gives a thermal stimulus to the buttocks. Further, a Peltier element provided on the front side of the seat cushion in the front-rear direction and heating the back of the thigh at one time and cooling at another time may be a device that gives a thermal stimulus to the back of the thigh.

(Third Embodiment)
Next, the third embodiment will be described. In the present embodiment, the air conditioner ECU 40 executes the process shown in FIG. 23 instead of the process shown in FIG. 17 with respect to the second embodiment. Others are the same as in the second embodiment.

In the process of FIG. 17 and the process of FIG. 23, steps having the same processing content are given the same step number. In the process of FIG. 23, step S210 is added to the process of FIG. Hereinafter, the differences from the second embodiment will be mainly described, and the description of the parts equivalent to those of the second embodiment will be omitted.

In the process of FIG. 23, the air conditioner ECU 40 executes step 210 following step S205, and executes step S215 following step S210. In step S210, the air conditioner ECU 40 calculates the time required to reach the target for the body part targeted by each body part widget. The time required to reach the target is a predicted value of the time until the actual feeling of heat of the target body part reaches the target value of the feeling of heat. The time required to reach the target is calculated based on a predetermined calculation formula stored in advance in the storage unit 402.

In the calculation formula, the time required to reach each target is stipulated so that the greater the difference between the current value and the target value of the feeling of warmth of the target body part, the greater the time. Further, in the calculation formula, the time required to reach each target is defined to be zero if the difference between the current value and the target value of the feeling of warmth of the target body part is zero. Further, in the calculation formula, the time required to reach each target is defined so that the larger the output value (for example, power consumption) of the device that applies the thermal stimulus to the target portion of the thermal stimulus unit, the smaller the time required.

Further, in the same step S210, the air conditioner ECU 40 displays the calculated information corresponding to each target arrival time on the display screen of the display device 60. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 24, the information according to the time required to reach the target for a certain body part is displayed in the vicinity of the body part widget for the body part.

At this time, the air conditioner ECU 40 obtains information according to the target arrival time, depending on whether the former is smaller than the latter or the former is larger than the latter, based on the comparison between the target arrival time and the predetermined threshold value. Switch the type.

Here, the predetermined threshold value may be a predetermined fixed time (for example, 1 hour). Alternatively, the predetermined threshold value may be the time required to reach the destination until the vehicle 1 reaches the destination. The time required to reach the destination may be obtained from a navigation device (not shown). In this case, when the destination is input, the navigation device calculates the planned route from the departure point of the vehicle 1 to the destination and guides the vehicle 1 to proceed along the planned route. While the vehicle 1 is in progress, the navigation device calculates the destination arrival time based on the mileage in each section of the planned route from the current position of the vehicle 1 to the destination and the predicted value of the vehicle speed in each section. Then, the navigation device outputs the calculated time required to reach the destination to the air conditioner ECU 40.

When the target arrival time is smaller than the predetermined threshold value, the air conditioner ECU 40 displays a number indicating the target arrival time on the display screen of the display device 60. As a result, the occupant 3 can understand that the target value of the thermal sensation and the current value deviate from each other, but the thermal sensation adjusting device is operating.

Further, when the target arrival time is longer than a predetermined threshold value, the air conditioner ECU 40 displays an image such as a horizontal line indicating that the target warmth is reached on the display screen instead of a number indicating the target arrival time. Display it.

Further, when the target arrival time and the predetermined threshold value are the same, the air conditioner ECU 40 may display a number indicating the target arrival time on the display screen, or the target warmth such as a horizontal line may be reached. An image indicating that it is slow may be displayed on the display screen.

Further, when the target arrival time becomes zero from a value larger than zero, the air conditioner ECU 40 may delete the information according to the target arrival time from the display screen, or the number of zero, which is the target arrival time. May be displayed on the display screen. In the former case, the display form of the time required to reach the target has changed. Further, when the target arrival time is changed from a value larger than zero to zero, the air conditioner ECU 40 displays the target arrival time itself as information according to the target arrival time, so that a predetermined pattern indicating the target arrival is displayed. You may display the icon of. By doing so, it becomes possible to understand that the feeling of heat is realized according to the target value.

The display of information according to the time required to reach this goal changes with the passage of time. For example, when the display as shown in FIG. 24 is displayed and the time elapses without changing the mode, the current indicator 504e approaches the part-specific slider 504d as shown in FIG. 25. As a result, the occupant 3 can visually recognize that the feeling of heat is approaching the target value not only from the sensation but also from the display screen.

Further, the air conditioner ECU 40 displays the current value and the target value of the feeling of heat of the occupant 3 for each body part, and changes the display form when the current value reaches the target value and before it reaches the target value. Further, the air conditioner ECU 40 displays the time until the current value reaches the target value for each body part. By doing so, it is possible to visually confirm not only the physical sensation but also the distinction between the body part in which the target thermal sensation distribution is realized and the body part in which the target thermal sensation distribution is not realized.

In the present embodiment, the air conditioner ECU 40 functions as a change unit by executing step S128 in FIG. 12, functions as a season determination unit by executing step S124, and corresponds to the season by executing step S126. Functions as a department. Further, the air conditioner ECU 40 functions as a display control unit by executing steps S205 and S210 in FIG. 23.

(Other embodiments)
The present disclosure is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and can be changed as appropriate. Further, the plurality of embodiments are not unrelated to each other, and can be appropriately combined except when the combination is clearly impossible. Further, in the above-described embodiment, the elements constituting the embodiment are not necessarily essential except when it is clearly stated that they are essential and when it is clearly considered to be essential in principle. Further, in the above embodiment, when numerical values such as the number, numerical value, amount, and range of the constituent elements of the embodiment are mentioned, when it is clearly stated that they are particularly essential, and in principle, the number is clearly limited to a specific number. It is not limited to the specific number except when In particular, when a plurality of values are exemplified for a certain quantity, it is also possible to adopt a value between the plurality of values unless otherwise specified or when it is clearly impossible in principle. .. Further, in the above embodiment, when referring to the shape, positional relationship, etc. of a component or the like, the shape, position, etc., unless otherwise specified or limited in principle to a specific shape, positional relationship, etc. It is not limited to relationships. Further, in the above embodiment, when it is described that the external environment information of the vehicle 1 (for example, the humidity outside the vehicle) is acquired from the sensor, the sensor is abolished and the external environment information is obtained from the server or cloud outside the vehicle 1. It is also possible to receive. Alternatively, it is also possible to abolish the sensor, acquire related information related to the external environment information from the server or cloud outside the vehicle 1, and estimate the external environment information from the acquired related information. The present disclosure also allows the following modifications and equal range modifications to the above embodiments. In addition, the following modified examples can be independently selected to be applied or not applied to the above embodiment. That is, any combination of the following modifications except for clearly contradictory combinations can be applied to the above embodiment.

Further, the air conditioner ECU 40 and its method described in the present disclosure are provided by a dedicated computer provided by configuring a processor and a memory programmed to execute one or more functions embodied by a computer program. , May be realized. Alternatively, the air conditioner ECU 40 and its method described in the present disclosure may be realized by a dedicated computer provided by configuring a processor with one or more dedicated hardware logic circuits. Alternatively, the air conditioner ECU 40 and its method described in the present disclosure are based on a combination of a processor and memory programmed to perform one or more functions and a processor composed of one or more hardware logic circuits. It may be realized by one or more dedicated computers configured. Further, the computer program may be stored in a computer-readable non-transitional tangible recording medium as an instruction executed by the computer.

(Modification example 1)
In each of the above embodiments, based on the difference between the current value and the target value of the thermal sensation distribution of the body parts 30 to 39 of the occupant 3 seated in the driver's seat 2, the body parts 30 to 39 of the occupant 3 by the thermal stimulation unit are reached. Thermal stimulation is adjusted. That is, the object of adjusting the heat sensation distribution is the occupant 3 seated in the driver's seat 2.

However, the object of adjusting the heat sensation distribution may be an occupant seated in the passenger seat or an occupant seated in the rear seat. Further, the object of adjusting the heat sensation distribution may be not only one occupant but also a plurality of occupants seated in different seats. In these cases, the arrangement, configuration, and operation of the thermal stimulus unit and various sensors are changed according to the seat position of the occupant to be adjusted.

(Modification 2)
In each of the above embodiments, the air conditioning unit 5 is exemplified as a device for individually applying thermal stimulation to the head 30, neck 31, chest 32, left and right upper arms 33, left and right forearms 34, and left and right toes 39. A waist heater 6, a thigh heater 7, and a lower leg heater 8 are exemplified as devices for individually applying thermal stimulation to the waist 36, the left and right thighs 37, and the left and right lower legs 38, respectively. However, the devices that individually give thermal stimulation to the body parts 30 to 39 are not limited to these.

For example, the waist heater 6, the thigh heater 7, and the lower leg heater 8 may be replaced with a blower having a function for cooling a target body part. Further, for example, the lumbar heater 6, the thigh heater 7, and the lower leg heater 8 may be replaced with a device including a Peltier element capable of heating or cooling a target body portion. Further, the lumbar portion 36, the left and right thigh portions 37, and the left and right lower leg portions 38 may also be individually subjected to thermal stimulation by the air conditioning unit 5.

Further, the air conditioning unit 5 using the steam refrigeration cycle is more energy efficient than the electric heater when the outside air temperature is higher than the reference temperature. This relationship is reversed when the outside air temperature is lower than the reference temperature. Therefore, when the outside air temperature of the waist 36, the left and right thighs 37, and the left and right lower legs 38 is higher than the reference temperature (for example, -2 ° C), the air conditioning unit 5 individually gives a thermal stimulus to the waist, and the temperature exceeds the reference temperature. If it is also low, thermal stimulation may be individually applied by an electric heater.

Further, in each embodiment, the head 30, the neck 31, the chest 32, the left and right upper arms 33, the left and right forearms 34, the left and right hands 35, the waist 36, the left and right thighs 37, the left and right lower legs 38, and the left and right toes 39. 10 devices may be separately provided at 10 locations of the above.

In that case, the head outlet provided on the headrest and blowing air mainly toward the head 30 may be a device that gives a thermal stimulus to the head 30. The neck outlet provided at the upper end of the seat back and blows air mainly toward the neck 31 serves as a device for giving a thermal stimulus to the neck 31. A chest outlet provided on the dashboard 4 that blows air mainly toward the chest 32 serves as a device for giving a thermal stimulus to the chest 32. The left and right armrests of the driver's seat 2 are provided so as to open upward, and the left and right upper arm outlets that blow air mainly toward the left and right upper arm 33 serve as a device that gives a thermal stimulus to the left and right upper arm 33. .. The left and right forearm outlets provided on the steering wheel and mainly blowing air toward the left and right forearms 34 serve as a device for giving thermal stimulation to the left and right forearms. A Peltier element provided on the steering wheel that heats the grip portion of the steering wheel at one time and cools it at another time serves as a device that gives thermal stimulation to the left and right hands. Then, the left and right thigh outlets provided so as to open downward in the left and right armrests of the driver's seat 2 and blow air mainly toward the left and right thighs 37 give thermal stimulation to the left and right thighs 37. It becomes a device. A heating / cooling device provided in a portion of the dashboard 4 surrounding the foot space to heat the left and right lower leg portions 38 at one time and cool the left and right lower leg portions 38 at another time serves as a device for giving a thermal stimulus to the left and right lower leg portions 38. This heating / cooling device may be, for example, a Peltier element, or may be a combination of a radiant heater and a foot outlet for blowing cold air. A Peltier element provided on the floor of the foot space to heat the left and right toes 39 at one time and cool the left and right feet 39 at another time serves as a device for giving a thermal stimulus to the left and right toes 39.

In addition, the air is blown out from five types of air outlets: head air outlet, neck air outlet, chest air outlet, left and right upper arm air outlets, left and right forearm air outlets, and left and right thigh air outlets. The temperature of the air may be adjusted independently. In this way, the inside of the air conditioning case 11 has five partitioned air passages dedicated to these outlets, and air that independently adjusts the ratio of the air volume of cold air and warm air to each of these air passages. It suffices if a mixed door is provided.

(Modification 3)
The target values of the body parts 30 to 39 in the target heat sensation distribution of each mode are not limited to those of each of the above embodiments.

(Modification example 4)
In each of the above embodiments, the air conditioner ECU 40 gives individual thermal stimuli to the body part having the largest absolute value of the difference between the current value and the target value of the thermal sensation. However, the target to which the individual thermal stimulus is given may be selected based on factors other than the difference between the current value and the target value of the thermal sensation. For example, a predetermined fixed order may be assigned to a plurality of body parts, and the air conditioner ECU 40 may give individual thermal stimuli according to the order.

(Modification 5)
In each of the above embodiments, the air conditioner ECU 40 preferentially gives a thermal stimulus to the body part having the maximum absolute value of the difference between the target SET * and the SET *. However, the priority of thermal stimulation to each body part may be determined based on the difference in the effect of the thermal stimulation part in addition to the absolute value of the difference between the target SET * and SET *.

For example, when the difference between the above absolute values is less than or equal to a predetermined value between one body part and another body part, even if the priority of the heat stimulation between these body parts is determined based on the difference in the effect of the heat stimulation part. Good. For example, in heating, the body part to which the heat stimulus is given by the steering heater or the seat heater that comes into contact with or is close to the human body and can effectively perform the heat stimulus is more than the body part to which the heat stimulus is given by the heater installed on the interior wall surface of the vehicle 1. May also be prioritized. The body part to which the thermal stimulus is given by the heater installed on the interior wall surface of the vehicle 1 may be prioritized over the body part warmed by the air conditioner that blows out warm air.

(Modification 6)
In each of the above embodiments, the individual thermal stimuli are applied to only one body part at a time. However, individual thermal stimuli may be applied to multiple body parts at the same time.

(Modification 7)
In each of the above embodiments, SET * is used as an index indicating a feeling of heat. However, as an index expressing the feeling of heat, the thermal environment evaluation index PMV (Predicted Mean Vote, Predicted Mean Vote) may be used instead of SET *.

(Modification 8)
In each of the above embodiments, the air conditioner ECU 40 selects one mode from the four modes based on the operation of the occupant 3 with respect to the state setting unit 21 in step S110. However, the air conditioner ECU 40 may select one mode from the four modes based on the operation other than the operation of the occupant 3. For example, the air conditioner ECU 40 may specify the behavior of the occupant from the image obtained from the thermo camera 9 by the image recognition technology, and select one mode from the four modes according to the specified behavior. That is, the air conditioner ECU 40 may select one mode from the four modes based on the biological information of the occupant acquired from the in-vehicle sensor.

For example, when the occupant is driving, the focus mode M2 may be selected. Further, for example, when the occupant is sleeping with his / her hand off the steering wheel, the sleep mode B1 may be selected.

(Modification 8)
In each of the above embodiments, the storage unit 402 records four standard thermal sensation distributions corresponding to four modes of relax mode M1, focus mode M2, sleep mode B1, and energy mode B2. Then, the air conditioner ECU 40 selects one mode from the four modes in step S110. That is, there were four mode options: relax mode M1, focus mode M2, sleep mode B1, and energy mode B2.

However, the number of mode options may be two or three. In that case, the mode to be selected may be arbitrarily determined from the relax mode M1, the focus mode M2, the sleep mode B1, and the energy mode B2 at the time of manufacturing or designing the thermal sensation adjusting device. In that case, the standard heat sensation distribution stored in the storage unit 402 is limited to the relax mode M1, the focus mode M2, the sleep mode B1, and the energy mode B2, which correspond to two or three determined modes. Recorded.

(Modification 9)
In the above embodiment, it is the air conditioner ECU 40 that performs the process of FIG. However, the process of FIG. 4 may be executed by a processing device provided separately from the air conditioner ECU 40. In that case, the processing device corresponds to the selection unit by executing step S110, and corresponds to the stimulus control unit by executing step S170.

(Modification example 10)
In the above embodiment, in the air conditioning unit 5, the ventilation passage 111 is a single passage, but the ventilation passage 111 may be divided into a plurality of small ventilation passages by a partition plate. For example, the ventilation passage 111 may be divided by a partition plate into an inside air passage that guides the inside air to the foot outlet 43 and an outside air passage that guides the outside air to the defroster outlet 41 and the face outlet 42.

Further, there may be a plurality of each of the defroster outlet 41, the face outlet 42, and the foot outlet 43, one of which is arranged on the driver's seat side and the other of which is arranged on the passenger's seat side. In that case, the inside air passage is divided into a driver side inside air passage that guides the inside air to the foot outlet 43 on the driver seat side and a passenger seat side inside air passage that guides the inside air to the foot outlet 43 on the passenger seat side by a partition plate. It may be divided. The outside air passage includes a driver's side outside air passage that guides the outside air to the driver's side defroster outlet 41 and the face outlet 42, and a passenger seat that guides the outside air to the passenger's side defroster outlet 41 and the face outlet 42. It may be divided into a side outside air passage by a partition plate.

(Modification 11)
In each of the above embodiments, the standard thermal sensation distribution, interlocking data, batch correction data, and the like are stored in the storage unit 402 mounted on the vehicle 1. However, this is not always the case. Only a part or all of the standard thermal sensation distribution, interlocking data, and batch correction data may be stored in one or a plurality of servers (for example, cloud) installed in a place other than the vehicle 1. In that case, the air conditioner ECU 40 reads and writes the data in the server among the standard thermal sensation distribution, the interlocking data, and the batch correction data by communicating with the server.

Alternatively, the air conditioner ECU 40 itself may be provided in one or a plurality of servers installed in a place other than the vehicle 1. In that case, the air conditioner ECU 40 realizes the above-mentioned processing by communicating with the equipment in the vehicle by communication.

(Modification 12)
In the second and third embodiments, the air conditioner ECU 40 changes the interlocking data in step S220 of FIGS. 17 and 23, but the standard target thermal sensation distribution in all modes may be changed. In this case, the standard target thermal sensation distribution of all modes recorded in the storage unit 402 corresponds to the interlocking data in which the changed value of the target thermal sensation distribution of each mode can be specified.

(Modification 13)
In the second and third embodiments, the air conditioner ECU 40 newly sets an additional mode different from the relax mode M1, the focus mode M2, the sleep mode B1, and the energy mode B2 according to the operation of the occupant 3 on the touch panel 61 or the like. May be set to. The standard thermal sensation distribution in that mode may be determined according to the setting operation of the occupant 3 on the touch panel 61 or the like. When the additional mode set in this way is set in step S110, it is corrected according to the interlocking data and the season as in the other modes. By doing so, the occupant 3 can newly set and enjoy the desired thermal sensation distribution.

(Modification 14)
In the second and third embodiments, the air conditioner ECU 40 may invalidate the interlocking data when a predetermined operation is performed on the touch panel 61. If the linked data is invalidated, the correction in step S128 is not executed. Further, when the interlocking data is invalidated, the air conditioner ECU 40 may enable the interlocking data based on the predetermined operation on the touch panel 61. When the interlocking data is enabled, the correction in step S128 is executed.

The predetermined operation on the touch panel 61 may be, for example, pressing and holding the predetermined position of the touch panel 61 for a predetermined time or longer, that is, pressing and holding the predetermined position of the touch panel 61. Alternatively, the predetermined operation on the touch panel 61 may be that the predetermined position of the touch panel 61 is pressed twice within the predetermined period, that is, the double click of the predetermined position of the touch panel 61.

(Modification 15)
In the second and third embodiments, the interlocking data is changed based on the operation on the touch panel 61. However, the interlocking data may be changed based on the voice of the occupant 3 acquired by the voice recognition device (not shown) from the microphone (not shown). That is, the interlocking data may be changed by the voice operation of the occupant 3.

(Modification 16)
In the above embodiment, the relax mode M1 is exemplified as the first mode, and the sleep mode B1 is exemplified as the second mode. However, the combination of the first mode and the second mode is not limited to such a combination. The combination of the first mode and the second mode may be any combination as long as they are different modes from each other.

(Modification 17)
In the above embodiment, the operation of the batch minus button 503a or the batch plus button 503b is exemplified as an operation for moving the batch slider 503d to change the batch correction data. However, the operation for moving the batch slider 503d to change the batch correction data may be, for example, an operation of selecting and dragging the batch slider 503d. Further, in the above embodiment, as an operation for moving the part-specific slider 504d to change the interlocking data, the operation of the part-specific minus button 504a and the part-specific plus button 504b is exemplified. However, the operation for moving the part-specific slider 504d to change the interlocking data may be, for example, an operation of selecting and dragging the part-specific slider 504d.

(Summary)
According to the first aspect shown in part or all of the above embodiments, the thermal sensation adjusting device for adjusting the thermal sensation of the occupant of the vehicle gives a thermal stimulus to a plurality of body parts of the occupant and at the same time. A thermal stimulus unit configured to change the distribution of the thermal stimulus for each body part, a mode for calming the occupant's mind, a mode for activating the occupant's mind, and the occupant's body for resting. The thermal stimulus is based on a selection unit that selects one mode from at least two modes among the modes and modes that activate the body of the occupant, and a target thermal sensation distribution corresponding to the mode selected by the selection unit. Each of the target thermal sensation distributions including a stimulus control unit for controlling the unit and corresponding to the at least two modes is data representing a plurality of thermal sensation target values for each of the plurality of body parts. In each of the target heat sensation distributions, the target value of the heat sensation targeting a specific body part among the plurality of body parts is different from each other, and any of the at least two modes depending on the selection unit. Thermal stimulation given to the specific body part when is selected, and given to the specific body part when the other mode of at least two modes is selected by the selection unit. The stimulus control unit controls the thermal stimulus unit so as to be different from the thermal stimulus to be performed.

Further, according to the second aspect, the specific body part is the head of the occupant, and the thermal stimulus given to the head when any of the modes is selected by the selection unit. The stimulus control unit controls the thermal stimulus unit so as to be different from the thermal stimulus given to the head when the other mode is selected by the selection unit.

The occupant's brain condition has a strong correlation with both mental and physical activity. Therefore, different modes selected for the selection section are designed to give different thermal stimuli to the head, so that the occupant's mental or physical condition is more suitable for the occupant's mental or physical condition. It is possible to adjust the distribution of thermal sensation in multiple parts of the body.

Further, according to the third viewpoint, the stimulus control unit sets the value of the heat sensation targeting the one body part based on the current value of the heat sensation targeting the one body part. A thermal stimulus is given to the one body part so as to approach the target value of the feeling of heat for the one body part.

In this way, by making the value of the feeling of heat approach the target value based on the current value of the feeling of heat, the occupant is more effectively guided to the mental state or the physical state of the occupant to be achieved. be able to.

Further, according to the fourth aspect, the thermal sensation adjusting device sets the target thermal sensation distribution of the first mode when the first mode among the at least two modes is selected by the selection unit. On the other hand, when there is a change operation of the occupant, a storage unit that stores the interlocking data corresponding to the change operation and when the first mode is selected by the selection unit, based on the interlocking data. It is provided with a changing unit for changing the target thermal sensation distribution in the first mode. Then, when the second mode different from the first mode among the at least two modes is selected by the selection unit, the changing unit of the first mode is based on the interlocking data. In conjunction with the change operation for the target heat sensation distribution, the target heat sensation distribution in the second mode is changed.

In the thermal sensation control device, when the conventional learning technique is simply applied, the target value of the thermal sensation of a specific body part (for example, the head) is learned for a certain purpose (for example, to calm the mind). It will be. However, the learning is not reflected in the target value of the thermal sensation of the body part for another purpose (for example, wanting to activate the body). According to the study of the inventor of the present application, when the occupant changes the thermal stimulus to a certain body part, he / she tends to prefer to change the thermal stimulus to the body part for another purpose as well. Therefore, it is not possible to efficiently learn the change in the target thermal sensation distribution by simply applying the conventional learning technique.

Therefore, interlocking data has been introduced in order to efficiently reflect the occupant's preference for thermal sensation in each thermal sensation distribution. As a result, it is possible to efficiently learn the change of the target thermal sensation distribution by the occupant.

Further, according to the fifth viewpoint, when a change operation in which a specific body part is selected is performed as the change operation, the change part sets a target value of a feeling of heat of only the one body part. Change based on the change operation. By doing so, detailed learning for each body part becomes possible.

Further, according to the sixth viewpoint, when a change operation that does not select a specific body part is performed as the change operation, the change part changes the target value of the thermal sensation of two or more body parts. Change based on. By doing so, it is less troublesome and simple adjustment is realized as compared with fine adjustment for each body part.

Further, according to the seventh viewpoint, the thermal sensation adjusting device sets the season determined by the seasonal determination unit with respect to the seasonal determination unit for determining the season and the target thermal sensation distribution of the mode selected by the selection unit. It has a seasonal department that makes changes according to the situation. By doing so, it is possible to appropriately adjust the thermal sensation stimulus according to the seasonal fluctuation.

Further, according to the eighth viewpoint, the thermal sensation adjusting device displays the current value and the target value of the thermal sensation of the occupant for each body part, and when the current value reaches the target value and before it reaches the target value. A display control unit is provided which changes the display form with the above and displays the time until the current value reaches the target value for each body part. By doing so, it is possible to visually confirm not only the physical sensation but also the distinction between the body part in which the target thermal sensation distribution is realized and the body part in which the target thermal sensation distribution is not realized.

Claims

It is a thermal sensation adjusting device that adjusts the thermal sensation of the occupants of the vehicle.
Thermal stimulus units (5, 6, 7, 8) that are configured to give thermal stimuli to a plurality of body parts of the occupant and to change the distribution of the thermal stimuli for each body part.
One of at least two modes: a mode for calming the occupant's mind, a mode for activating the occupant's mind, a mode for calming the occupant's body, and a mode for activating the occupant's body. The selection unit (S110) to be selected and
A stimulus control unit (S170) that controls the thermal stimulus unit based on the target thermal sensation distribution corresponding to the mode selected by the selection unit is provided.
Each of the target thermal sensation distributions corresponding to the at least two modes is data representing a plurality of thermal sensation target values for each of the plurality of body parts.
Each of the target heat sensation distributions has different target values for the heat sensation targeting a specific body part among the plurality of body parts.
The thermal stimulus given to the specific body part when any one of the at least two modes is selected by the selection unit, and the other mode of the at least two modes is selected by the selection unit. A thermal sensation adjusting device in which the stimulus control unit controls the thermal stimulus unit so that the thermal stimulus given to the specific body part is different from that of the thermal stimulus.
The specific body part is the occupant's head, the thermal stimulus given to the head when any of the modes is selected by the selection, and the other modes selected by the selection. The thermal sensation adjusting device according to claim 1, wherein the stimulus control unit controls the thermal stimulus unit so that the thermal stimulus given to the head is different from the thermal stimulus given to the head.
In the stimulus control unit, the value of the heat sensation targeting the specific body part is based on the current value of the heat sensation targeting the specific body part, and the value of the heat sensation targeting the specific body part is the heat targeting the specific body part. The thermal sensation adjusting device according to claim 1 or 2, which gives a thermal stimulus to the specific body part so as to approach a target value of sensation.
When the first mode of the at least two modes is selected by the selection unit, if there is an operation of changing the occupant with respect to the target thermal sensation distribution of the first mode, the change operation A storage unit (402) that stores the corresponding interlocking data,
When the first mode is selected by the selection unit, a change unit (S128) that changes the target thermal sensation distribution of the first mode based on the interlocking data is provided.
The change unit is a target of the first mode based on the interlocking data when a second mode different from the first mode among the at least two modes is selected by the selection unit. The thermal sensation adjusting device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the target thermal sensation distribution in the second mode is changed in conjunction with the change operation for the thermal sensation distribution.
When a change operation is performed in which a specific body part is selected as the change operation, the change part changes the target value of the thermal sensation of only the one body part based on the change operation. The thermal sensation adjusting device according to 4.
According to claim 4, when a change operation that does not select a specific body part is performed as the change operation, the change part changes the target value of the thermal sensation of two or more body parts based on the change operation. The above-mentioned thermal sensation adjusting device.
Seasonal determination unit (S124) that determines the season,
Any one of claims 1 to 6, further comprising a seasonal response unit (S126) that changes the target thermal sensation distribution of the mode selected by the selection unit according to the season determined by the season determination unit. The thermal sensation adjusting device according to one.
The current value and the target value of the occupant's feeling of heat are displayed for each body part, and the display form is changed when the current value reaches the target value and before the target value is reached. Further, the current value is the target value. The thermal sensation adjusting device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, further comprising a display control unit (S205, S210) for displaying the time required to reach the above for each body part.