Multiple convective cushion seating and sleeping systems and methods

Abstract

A multiple convective cushion seating and sleeping system for providing temperature modified air to multiple surfaces, such as a seating surface and a sleeping surface, with the same air cooling or heating source. The invention includes the use of tubular spacer material including tubular spacer fabric. A power unit including a heat pump and blower is in fluid communication with a first convective cushion by a first duct and with a second convective cushion by a second duct to provide the temperature modified air to both convective cushions for controllably heating or cooling multiple users. A thermoelectric heat pump, a Stirling cycle heat pump or other type of heat pump can be used. The invention includes the use or one or more valves to control the air flow to one or more of the convective cushions and provides for manual operation, electronic control and operation by a remote telecommunications unit. The invention can be utilized in vehicles, such as tractor trailers and recreational vehicles, and in buildings such as apartments, dorm rooms and houses.

Description

RELATED APPLICATION DATA[0001]This application is a continuation-in-part of the U.S. patent application entitled “Improved Convective Seating and Sleeping Systems” filed on Jun. 19, 2007.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0002]1. Field of the Invention[0003]This present invention relates to convective cooling and heating of seats, mattresses, mattress pads and other articles used as a cushioning device.[0004]2. Description of Related Art[0005]There are many applications and situations where it is desirable to provide for convective cooling or heating of various articles including seats, mattresses and other articles used for supporting individuals while either sitting or laying down on the article. Many of the conventional devices that have been used suffer from serious drawbacks. As one example, the resistance heated type prior art mattresses and cushions do not provide for cooling or ventilation, a major disadvantage in many parts of the world that lack adequate air conditioning. Moreove...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0009]With respect to large trucks, it is known that conventional air conditioning space cooling systems use too much energy to run for eight hours on the vehicle battery or batteries. The invention advantageously uses an air convection cooled and / or heated mattress or mattress pad which is more energy efficient at cooling and eating the sleeper than a space cooling and heating device. The invention is much quieter, enabling a better sleep for light sleepers and, because of much higher efficiency, the invention can be powered by a typical truck electrical system without running the battery down. The invention saves space and weight by utilizing a single air cooling and / or heating source and with respect to use in vehicles, advantageously allows for the simultaneous use of both a convectively cooled or heated seating surface and sleeping surface when two drivers are taking turns driving and sleeping.

Problems solved by technology

With respect to large trucks, it is known that conventional air conditioning space cooling systems use too much energy to run for eight hours on the vehicle battery or batteries.

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