Thermoelectric regulation system and method

Abstract

A system for thermally regulating and moving fluids includes a thermoelectric device configured to convert electrical energy into thermal energy and produce a temperature change in response to an electric current applied thereto. The thermoelectric device may include a primary side and a waste side. A fluid moving device may generate a fluid flow in thermal communication with the thermoelectric device such that thermal energy generated by the thermoelectric device is transferred to or from the fluid flow. A flow control valve may selectively direct fluid flow along a primary side fluid flow path and / or a waste side fluid flow path.

Description

[0001] Cross-application of related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 773,961, filed on November 30, 2018, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety for all purposes and is considered a part of this specification. background Technical Field

[0004] The present disclosure relates generally to climate control and, more particularly, to climate control systems. Background Art

[0006] Temperature-conditioned air for environmental control of living or working spaces is typically provided to a relatively wide area, such as an entire building, selected offices, or suites within a building. In the case of vehicles (e.g., cars), the entire vehicle is typically cooled or heated as a single unit. However, in many cases, more selective or restrictive air temperature control is required. For example, it is often desirable to provide personalized climate control for passenger seats, thereby enabling essentially instantaneous heating or cooling. For example, a motor vehicle exposed to summer weather (where the vehicle has been parked in an unshaded area for extended periods) can cause vehicle seats to become very hot, and even with proper air conditioning, occupants may experience discomfort for some time after entering and using the vehicle. Furthermore, even with proper air conditioning, seat occupants can still sweat on their backs and other pressure points while sitting in hot weather. In winter, the ability to quickly warm the passenger seat is highly desirable to enhance passenger comfort, especially when a normal vehicle heater is not able to quickly warm the vehicle interior.

[0007] For these reasons, various types of personalized climate control systems have been developed for vehicle seats and other climate-controlled environments. In such systems, a thermal conditioning system can thermally condition air and deliver the conditioned air to the environment to cool or heat the space. Summary of the Invention

[0008] A system for thermally regulating and moving fluids includes a thermoelectric device configured to convert electrical energy into thermal energy to produce a temperature change in response to an electric current applied thereto. The thermoelectric device has a primary side and a waste side. A fluid moving device generates a fluid flow in thermal communication with the thermoelectric device such that thermal energy generated by the thermoelectric device is transferred to or from the fluid flow. A flow control valve selectively directs fluid flow along a primary side fluid flow path and / or a waste side fluid flow path.

[0009] In another aspect, a control unit is operatively connected to the fluid moving device and the flow control valve, and operates the fluid moving device and the flow control valve.

[0010] In another aspect, the sensor provides a signal indicative of the temperature of the fluid flow.

[0011] In another aspect, the control unit operates the flow control valve based on the signal.

[0012] In another aspect, the control unit adjusts the flow control valves, and substantially equal proportions of fluid flow are directed to the waste-side fluid flow path and the main-side fluid flow path.

[0013] In another aspect, the control unit adjusts the flow control valve position based on a desired primary side temperature.

[0014] In another aspect, the control unit reduces the primary side temperature and / or increases the temperature difference between the primary and waste sides by adjusting the flow control valve to direct more fluid flow to the waste side fluid flow path than to the primary side fluid flow path.

[0015] In another aspect, the flow control valve is adjusted from a fully open position to a fully closed position.

[0016] In another aspect, the control unit adjusts the flow control valve wherein less than 20% of the total volume of fluid flow on the primary and waste side paths is directed to the primary side fluid flow path to achieve a high temperature difference between the primary and waste sides of the thermoelectric device.

[0017] In another aspect, the control unit adjusts the proportion of the fluid flow directed to the primary-side fluid flow path to prevent condensation in the fluid flow.

[0018] In another aspect, the control unit regulates the fluid flow provided by the fluid moving device based on the position of the flow control valve.

[0019] In another aspect, the control unit increases the fluid flow when the fluid flow is proportionally distributed toward the primary-side fluid flow path.

[0020] In another aspect, when the position of the flow control valve increases back pressure on the fluid moving device, the control unit maintains fluid flow by reducing the speed of the fluid moving device, such as by reducing the voltage applied to the fluid moving device.

[0021] In another aspect, the control unit adjusts the proportion of the fluid flow directed to the primary-side fluid flow path based on cabin ambient humidity.

[0022] In another aspect, the control unit adjusts the conditioned air temperature by adjusting a ratio of fluid flows along the primary-side fluid flow path and the bypass flow path and mixing cooler air from the primary-side fluid flow path with warmer air from the bypass flow path to produce conditioned air at an intermediate temperature.

[0023] On the other hand, the control unit directs more fluid flow to the primary side fluid flow path than to the waste side fluid flow path to prevent condensation in the fluid flow and increase the cooling capacity of the system under limited temperature difference between the primary side and the waste side of the thermoelectric device.

[0024] In another aspect, the control unit directs a first proportion of fluid flow to the primary side fluid flow path for a first period and a second proportion of fluid flow to the primary side fluid flow path for a second period, the first period being set to form an acceptable amount of condensation in the fluid flow.

[0025] In another aspect, the first period and / or the second period is set to maintain a preset temperature difference between the primary side and the waste side of the thermoelectric device.

[0026] In another aspect, the control unit directs substantially all of the fluid flow along the primary-side fluid flow path to provide a high ventilation rate.

[0027] In another aspect, the control unit operates the thermoelectric device as a heater and directs substantially all or most of the fluid along the primary side fluid flow path to increase heating capacity and avoid losses associated with heat removal and air flow on the waste side of the thermoelectric device.

[0028] In another aspect, the control unit adjusts the flow control valve position based on cabin air temperature and humidity.

[0029] A control method for a thermal regulation system includes powering a thermoelectric device of the thermal regulation system, the thermoelectric device having a primary side and a waste side. The thermal regulation system is operated for a first period of time in a first mode in which a fluid flows through the thermal regulation system. A first portion of the fluid flow is directed through the waste side at a first flow rate, and a second portion of the fluid flow is directed through the primary side at a second flow rate. The thermal regulation system is operated for a second period of time in a second mode in which a ratio between the first flow rate and the second flow rate is altered compared to the first mode.

[0030] In another aspect, the first mode is an initial mode.

[0031] In another aspect, a target temperature of the fluid flow is detected using a temperature sensor, and based on the detected target temperature, operation is changed from a first mode to a second mode.

[0032] On the other hand, the target temperature is detected on the primary side.

[0033] In another aspect, a temperature difference between the primary side and the waste side is measured, and based on detecting the measured temperature difference, operation is changed from the first mode to the second mode.

[0034] In another aspect, condensation on the primary side is detected which changes operation from a first mode to a second mode based on the detected condensation.

[0035] On the other hand, in the second mode, relative to the first mode, a ratio between the first flow rate through the waste side and the second flow rate through the primary side is reduced.

[0036] In another aspect, in the second mode, the first flow rate through the waste side and the second flow rate through the primary side are approximately equal.

[0037] In another aspect, in the second mode, the first flow rate through the waste side is less than the second flow rate through the primary side.

[0038] In another aspect, the thermal conditioning system operates in a third mode for a third period in which at least one of total fluid flow through the thermal conditioning system and power to the TED is reduced relative to the second mode.

[0039] In another aspect, the fluid flow between the primary side and the waste side is directed through a valve.

[0040] A thermal regulation system includes a TED having a primary side and a waste side, a primary-side path along the primary side of the TED, and a waste-side path along the waste side of the TED. A controller operates the thermal regulation system in a first mode for a first period of time, wherein a first fluid stream flows along the waste-side path at a first flow rate and a second fluid stream flows along the primary-side path at a second flow rate; and operates the thermal regulation system in a second mode for a second period of time, wherein a ratio between the first flow rate and the second flow rate is varied.

[0041] In another aspect, the valve directs flow of the first fluid and the second fluid between the main-side path and the waste-side path. The controller operates the valve to switch between the first mode and the second mode.

[0042] In another aspect, the first mode is an initial mode.

[0043] In another aspect, the temperature sensor detects a temperature of the second fluid flow.The controller also receives a signal from the temperature sensor and changes operation from the first mode to the second mode based on the signal.

[0044] In another aspect, a temperature sensor detects a temperature difference between the first fluid flow and the second fluid flow. A controller receives a signal from the temperature sensor and changes operation from the first mode to the second mode based on the signal.

[0045] In another aspect, the humidity sensor detects humidity of the second fluid flow.The controller receives a signal from the humidity sensor and changes operation from the first mode to the second mode based on the signal.

[0046] In another aspect, the first flow rate and the second flow rate are approximately equal in the second mode.

[0047] On the other hand, in the second mode, the second flow rate is greater than the first flow rate.

[0048] In another aspect, the controller operates the thermal conditioning system in a third mode for a third period in which at least one of fluid flow through the thermal conditioning system and power to the TED is reduced relative to the second mode. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0049] Various examples are depicted in the accompanying drawings, which are for illustrative purposes and should not be construed as limiting the scope of the examples. Various features of the different disclosed examples can be combined to form additional examples, which are part of the present disclosure.

[0050] Figure 1 A thermal regulation system is shown including flow control valves for directing fluid flow along a main-side path and a waste-side path;

[0051] Figure 1A shows fluid flow through a thermal regulation system with a flow control valve in a neutral position;

[0052] Figure 1B shows fluid flow through a thermal regulation system with a flow control valve in a waste side blocking position;

[0053] Figure 1C shows fluid flow through a thermal regulation system with a flow control valve in a primary-side blocking position;

[0054] Figure 2 Another embodiment of a thermal regulation system is shown, comprising a flow control valve for directing fluid flow along a main-side path, a waste-side path, and a bypass path;

[0055] Figure 2A shows fluid flow through a thermal regulation system wherein a flow control valve blocks a bypass path and partially blocks a main-side path;

[0056] Figure 2B Fluid is shown flowing through a thermal regulation system with a flow control valve blocking a bypass path;

[0057] Figure 2C shows fluid flow through a thermal regulation system with a flow control valve blocking a waste side path;

[0058] Figure 3A A schematic thermal regulation system is shown including a flow control valve in a fully closed position, thereby blocking a primary side path;

[0059] Figure 3B The flow control valve is shown in an intermediate position between the main side path and the waste side path;

[0060] Figure 3C is a graph showing the relationship between the air flow through the main-side path and the position of the flow control valve;

[0061] Figure 3D is a graph showing the maximum temperature difference (Delta T) across the primary and waste sides of a thermoelectric device of a thermal conditioning system versus the position of a flow control valve;

[0062] Figure 4 A schematic thermal regulation system is shown including a flow control valve located midway between a main-side flow path and a waste-side flow path;

[0063] Figure 5 An illustrative thermal regulation system is shown wherein a flow control valve partially blocks a primary-side flow path;

[0064] Figure 6 A schematic thermal regulation system is shown wherein the flow control valve completely blocks the primary side flow path;

[0065] Figure 7 An illustrative thermal regulation system is shown wherein a flow control valve partially blocks a waste side flow path;

[0066] Figure 8 An illustrative thermal regulation system is shown wherein the flow control valve completely blocks the waste side flow path;

[0067] Figure 9 is a graph showing the maximum temperature difference (Delta T) across the primary and waste sides of a thermoelectric device of a thermal regulation system and the volume flow through the primary and waste sides versus the position of a flow control valve;

[0068] Figure 10 A flow chart for operating a thermal regulation module is shown;

[0069] Figure 11 Another embodiment of a thermal regulation module is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0070] Figure 1 An embodiment of a thermal conditioning system 100 is shown. The thermal conditioning system 100 can be used to deliver conditioned (e.g., heated, cooled, dried, and / or humidified) air to a climate-controlled device or environment. In an exemplary embodiment, the thermal conditioning system 100 can deliver conditioned air to a vehicle seat, for example, through one or more channels or pathways within the vehicle seat. The thermal conditioning system 100 can also be used to provide conditioned air to various other spaces or components, such as enclosed spaces, beds, spaces, and / or sofas.

[0071] The thermal regulation system 100 may include or be used in conjunction with a fluid moving device (not shown). The fluid moving device may be a fan, blower, or similar device. The fluid moving device may include a motor for driving one or more blades. The speed of the fluid moving device may be controlled based on the amount of voltage and / or current applied to the motor. The fluid moving device may transport a fluid flow through the thermal regulation system 100. The fluid flow, or a portion thereof, may be regulated by passing through the thermal regulation system 100. The fluid flow may be transported through the thermal regulation system 100 along a flow path 110. In the illustrated embodiment, the fluid moving device may generally be located upstream of a regulating element of the thermal regulation system 100. However, in other embodiments, the fluid moving device may be located downstream of the regulating element in addition to or as an alternative to the upstream fluid moving device.

[0072] Thermal regulation system 100 may include a thermoelectric device (TED) 120. TED 120 may be a Peltier device. Thermoelectric device 120 may include a primary side 122 and a secondary side 124. TED 120 may be controlled based on the application of voltage and / or current. When used as a cooling device, primary side 122 may be cooler than secondary side 124. When used as a heating device, primary side 122 may be warmer than secondary side 124.

[0073] TED 120 can include a main-side heat exchanger 126 and / or a waste-side heat exchanger 128. In certain embodiments, the heat exchangers can include a plurality of thin metal fins. Flow path 110 can be divided into a main-side flow path 132 and a waste-side flow path 134. Main-side flow path 132 can pass through main heat exchanger 126. Waste-side flow path 134 can pass through waste heat exchanger 128. Main-side flow path 132 can terminate in a climate-controlled environment or device. Waste-side flow path 134 can terminate at an exhaust.

[0074] Thermal conditioning system 100 may include a flow control valve 140. Flow control valve 140 may be upstream of TED 120. However, it is contemplated that in other embodiments, the flow control valve may be located downstream of TED 120 and / or additional valves may be provided. For example, separate valves may be provided for each flow path 132, 134 for the primary and waste sides of the thermal conditioning system. Flow control valve 140 may include a louver or damper 144. The position of the louver may proportionately distribute the fluid flow provided by the fluid moving device between the primary flow path 132 and the waste flow path 134. Alternatively, the louver may proportionately distribute the fluid flow to a bypass flow path (not shown). The position of the louver may be controlled by a motor (e.g., a servo, stepper, or other type of motor) or actuator. In the illustrated embodiment, flow control valve 140 is in the form of a flap valve; however, other valve types, such as needle valves, barrel valves, or rotary valves, and / or combinations thereof, may also be used.

[0075] Figure 1A The pressure of the fluid flow through the thermal conditioning system 100 is shown with the flow control valve 140 in a neutral position. Figure 1B The pressure of the fluid flow through the thermal conditioning system 100 is shown with the flow control valve 140 in a position blocking the waste-side flow path 134 . Figure 1C The pressure of the fluid flow through the thermal conditioning system 100 is shown with the flow control valve 140 in a position blocking the primary-side flow path 132 .

[0076] Conventional climate-controlled systems can use fluid-moving devices and TEDs for climate control. These systems can operate by varying the total air flow provided by the fluid-moving device and the power supplied to the TED to achieve a desired conditioned air temperature and thermal conditioning capacity. The addition of flow control valve 140 provides thermal conditioning system 100 with additional control over fluid flow regulation compared to conventional systems. For example, thermal conditioning system 100 can provide greater air temperature variation, provide additional control over conditioned air temperature for any given fluid-moving device and TED operating conditions, and / or provide additional climate control operating modes or options, as described in greater detail below. Consequently, thermal conditioning system 100 can advantageously reduce sensing time and / or improve the efficiency of TED 120 and / or the fluid-moving device.

[0077] Figure 2Another embodiment of a thermal regulation system 200 is shown. The thermal regulation system 200 can operate similarly to the thermal regulation system 100 and / or include components similar to the thermal regulation system 100. The thermal regulation system can include a TED 220. The TED 220 can include a primary side 222 and a waste side 224. The TED 220 can include a primary side heat exchanger 226 and / or a waste side heat exchanger 228.

[0078] Thermal regulation system 200 may include a fluid flow path 210 for fluid flow from a fluid moving device (not shown). Fluid flow path 210 may pass through a flow control valve 240. Flow control valve 240 in the illustrated embodiment may be a rotary valve. Flow control valve 240 may direct fluid flow through a primary-side flow path 232, a waste-side flow path 234, and / or a bypass path 236.

[0079] Figure 2A The pressure of the fluid flow through the thermal conditioning system 200 is shown with the flow control valve 240 in a position blocking the bypass path 236 and partially blocking the main-side flow path 232 . Figure 2B The pressure of the fluid flow through the thermal conditioning system 200 is shown with the flow control valve 240 in a position blocking only the bypass path 236 . Figure 2C The pressure of the fluid flow through the thermal conditioning system 200 is shown with the flow control valve 240 in a position blocking the waste-side flow path 234 .

[0080] Figure 3A Thermal regulation system 300 is shown including flow control valve 340, TED 320, primary side flow path 332, and waste side flow path 334. Flow control valve 340 in a fully closed position (0%) may block the primary side of thermoelectric device 320. Figure 3B The flow control valve 340 is shown in a fully open position (100%), allowing fluid to flow through both the primary and waste sides of the TED 320 . Figure 3C is a graph showing air flow through the primary-side flow path 332 for different opening positions of the flow control valve 340 .

[0081] Figure 3D is a graph showing the maximum temperature difference (Delta T) across the primary and waste sides of the TED 320 for different opening positions of the flow control valve 340 .

[0082] As mentioned above, conventional climate control systems that are fixedly separated allow air to flow through the primary and waste sides of a TED. Figure 3DAs shown in the fully open (100%) position of the main side flow path 332, a conventional climate controlled system having fixed, separate air flows between the main side and waste sides of the TED 320 can achieve a maximum temperature difference (Delta T) of approximately 7 degrees (C). Closing or restricting fluid flow along the main side flow path 332 increases the Delta T (e.g., by reducing the total volume of air heated or cooled on the main side). In some embodiments, the flow control valve 340 is capable of achieving a Delta T of up to approximately 17 degrees (C). Improvements to Delta T can result in lower temperatures for the conditioned air from the main side flow path 332 that is delivered to the climate controlled environment. In some cases, such as in air conditioned seating units, lower temperatures may be desirable to produce an enhanced cooling sensation for the seat occupant. About Figure 3A and Figure 3B The configuration and operation shown and described may be similar to those described above with respect to Figure 1 and Figure 2 The thermal regulation system described herein is used in conjunction with an implementation thereof.

[0083] Figure 4 A heat regulation system 400 similar to heat regulation system 100 is schematically shown. Heat regulation system 400 may include a fluid moving device 450 for moving a fluid flow along a fluid flow path 410. Fluid flow path 410 may follow a primary flow path 432 and / or a waste flow path 434. Heat regulation system 400 may include a TED 420. TED 420 may have a primary side 422 and a waste side 424. TED 420 may include one or more air heat exchangers (not shown). A flow control valve 440 may direct and / or proportion air along primary flow path 432 and / or waste flow path 434. Flow control valve 440 may include a motor 442 and / or louvers or rotors 444.

[0084] Thermal regulation system 400 may include a controller 460. Controller 460 may be a single controller or distributed across several control devices. Controller 460 may be operatively coupled to motor 442 for controlling flow control valve 440. Controller 460 may be operatively coupled to TED 420 and / or fluid movement device 450. Controller 460 may include a processor for executing instructions programmed on a computer-readable medium, configured to operate thermal regulation system 400 according to one or more operating modes.

[0085] Thermal conditioning system 400 may include one or more sensors 462. Sensors 462 may include temperature and / or humidity sensors and may be configured to measure fluid flow. Sensors 462 may be mounted in fluid flow path 410, in fluid moving device 450, in primary-side flow path 432 and / or waste-side flow path 434, and / or elsewhere within thermal conditioning system 400. In some embodiments, sensors 462 may be located upstream, downstream, and / or within a primary-side or waste-side heat exchanger. Sensors 462 may be communicatively coupled to controller 460. Controller 460 may operate thermal conditioning system 400 based, at least in part, on signals from sensors 462.

[0086] Figure 4-Figure 8 An exemplary thermal regulation system 400 is shown with a flow control valve 440 in open, closed, and intermediate (partially open) positions according to various operating modes, as described below.

[0087] In some embodiments, the controller 460 may Figure 4 4. The thermal conditioning system 400 is operated in a conventional mode, schematically illustrated in FIG. In conventional mode, fluid flow from the fluid moving device 450 flows through the primary side 422 and the waste side 424 at approximately equal and / or static predetermined ratios (e.g., the volumetric fluid flow rate between the primary side flow path 432 and the waste side flow path 434). The controller 460 varies (by operating the flow control valve 440) the conditioned air temperature by adjusting one or both of the power (e.g., voltage and / or current) supplied to the TED 420 and the total fluid flow from the fluid moving device 450 (e.g., by accelerating or decelerating).

[0088] The controller 460 can operate the thermal conditioning system 400 in High Delta T Mode, which Figure 5 and Figure 6Schematically shown in . In High Delta T Mode, the flow control valve 440 can partially or completely close the main-side flow path 432. The controller 460 can operate in High Delta T Mode in a high temperature and / or low humidity cabin air operating environment (e.g., an ambient temperature of 32-45 degrees (C) and a relative humidity of less than 20%). In High Delta T Mode, cabin air passing through the thermal conditioning system 400 can be cooled to a lower temperature than in Conventional Mode. The controller 460 (through operation of the flow control valve 440) can allocate a greater proportion of fluid flow to the waste-side flow path 434 to achieve a high Delta T and a low conditioned air temperature on the main-side flow path 432 (e.g., relative to the conditioned air temperature on the main-side flow path 432 if fluid flow along the main-side flow path 432 and the waste-side flow path 434 were equal). In High Delta T Mode, the conditioned air temperature can take precedence over the conditioned air flow. High Delta T Mode can include a conditioned air target temperature. In High Delta T Mode, the conditioned air temperature target may be 25 degrees (C). This may reduce occupant perception time and / or provide optimal conditioned air temperature for comfort.

[0089] Figure 9 The graph shows dT (temperature difference between the main side flow path 432 and the waste side flow path 434) and the flow rate ratio between the main side flow path 432 and the waste side flow path 434, and the total flow rate versus the position of the flow control valve 440 (P0-P10 in 10 ° In some embodiments, High Delta T Mode can be Figure 9is represented in the graph between P0 and any one of P1-P2. In certain embodiments of High Delta T Mode, the flow control valve 440 can be open between approximately 0% and 20%, between 0% and 10%, or between 0% and 5%. In certain embodiments of High Delta T Mode, the ratio of fluid flow along the main side flow path 432 and the waste side flow path 434 can be approximately between 0 and 0.3, between 0.1 and 0.3, between 0.1 and 0.2. In certain embodiments of High Delta T Mode, the fluid flow through the main side can be approximately between 0 and 3 CFM (cubic feet per minute), 0 and 2 CFM, and between 0 and 1 CFM. In certain embodiments of High Delta T Mode, dT (the temperature difference between the main side flow path 432 and the waste side flow path 434) can be approximately between 25°C and 12°C or between 25°C and 20°C.

[0090] The controller 460 can operate the thermal conditioning system 400 in High Air Flow Mode, which Figure 7 and Figure 8 Schematically shown in . In High Air Flow Mode, the flow control valve 440 can partially or completely close the waste side flow path 434. The controller 460 can operate in High Air Flow Mode in a cabin air environment where the humidity limit achieves a desired (high) Delta T without condensation (e.g., an ambient temperature of 25-32 degrees (C) and a relative humidity of less than 60%). The controller 460 can allocate a greater proportion of the fluid flow to the main side flow path 432 compared to the waste side flow path 434, or allocate all of the fluid flow to the main side flow path 432, thereby increasing the cooling capacity of the thermal system 400 (which can be at a higher conditioned air temperature) operating with a limited Delta T. In High Air Flow Mode, the cooling capacity of the thermal system 400 can be increased without generating condensation. In addition, the controller 460 can control the power to the TED 420 to achieve the desired conditioned air temperature and / or humidity.

[0091] In some embodiments, High Air Flow Mode can be Figure 9In certain embodiments of the High Air Flow Mode, the flow control valve 440 may be opened between approximately 20% and 100%, between 10% and 100%, or between 5% and 100%. In certain embodiments of the High Air Flow Mode, the flow control valve 440 may be opened greater than approximately 5%, 10%, or 20%. In certain embodiments of the High Air Flow Mode, the ratio of fluid flow along the main side flow path 432 and the waste side flow path 434 may be approximately 1.0 or between 0.5 and 5.0 or greater. In certain embodiments of the High Air Flow Mode, the fluid flow through the main side may be between approximately 4 and 10 CFM, or greater than approximately 2, 3, or 4 CFM. In certain embodiments of the High Air Flow Mode, dT (the temperature difference between the main side flow path 432 and the waste side flow path 434) may be between approximately 13°C and 1°C, or less than approximately 13°C.

[0092] Controller 460 can operate thermal conditioning system 400 in Sequential High Delta T, High Air Flow Mode. Controller 460 can operate in Sequential High Delta T, High Air Flow Mode in a cabin air environment with humidity limitations (e.g., a relative humidity that causes condensation within thermal conditioning system 400 and an ambient temperature greater than 25 degrees Celsius). Controller 460 can operate in High Delta T Mode for a first period, during which an acceptable amount of condensation forms. Controller 460 can then switch to High Air Flow Mode to remove condensation for a second period. The operating cycle can be set to maintain a desired Delta T range. The Delta T range can be set, for example, to prevent occupants from perceiving the conditioned air temperature range and / or to maintain occupant comfort. Furthermore, controller 460 can control power to TED 420 to achieve the desired conditioned air temperature and / or humidity. In another operational example, the controller 460 may operate the High Delta T Mode above the condensation point and then operate in the High Air Flow Mode to dry out the thermal conditioning system 400. This process may be noisy and may be used as a pre-conditioning mode (no occupants in the climate controlled environment).

[0093] The controller 460 can operate the thermal conditioning system 400 in a Ventilation Mode, which is Figure 7 and Figure 8 Schematically shown in FIG. Controller 460 can operate in Ventilation Mode in a cabin air environment where the cabin air temperature is sufficient to achieve occupant comfort. Controller 460 will distribute substantially all fluid flow over primary flow path 432 and / or through the bypass flow path when TED 420 is de-energized. In Ventilation Mode, thermal regulation system 400 can provide high ventilation rates for rotary and louvered flow control valves. Controller 460 can operate in Ventilation Mode during a first period and in one or more of Conventional Mode, High Delta T Mode, High Air Flow Mode, and / or Sequential High Delta T, High Air Flow Mode during a second period.

[0094] The controller 460 can operate the thermal conditioning system 400 in a Modified Heating Mode. The controller 460 can operate in the Modified Heating Mode in a cabin air environment where the cabin air temperature is low and heating is required for occupant comfort. The TED 420 can operate with the opposite polarity relative to the cooling mode described above. The controller 460 can operate the flow control valve 440 to distribute all or most of the fluid flow to the main side 422 (acting as a heater) to increase heating capacity and avoid losses associated with heat removal and air flow on the waste side 424. To reduce the time that the heated air is sensed, the TED 420 can operate similar to the High Delta T Mode, wherein the flow control valve 440 partially or completely closes the main side path 432. This can increase the temperature of the cabin air flowing through the thermal conditioning system 400 relative to operation in the Modified Heating Mode.

[0095] In another mode, the thermal conditioning system 400 can operate in a cool and / or humid air cabin environment. The controller 460 can increase the fluid flow through the thermal conditioning system 400 (e.g., through operation of the fluid moving device 450) to reduce the dampness of the occupants and / or increase the drying of the occupants, which is Figure 7 and Figure 8 Controller 460 may adjust flow control valve 440 and / or power to TED 420 to increase the conditioned air temperature to counteract drying-related evaporative cooling of the occupants.

[0096] The controller 460 can adjust the speed of the fluid moving device based on the position of the flow control valve 440. To maintain a desired fluid flow as the position of the flow control valve 440 increases back pressure, it may be necessary to reduce the fluid moving device speed because, at higher back pressures, turbulence within the fluid flow path 410 may cause the fluid moving device speed to increase without a corresponding increase in air flow.

[0097] In High Delta T Mode, thermal conditioning system 400 can prevent condensation on primary side 422 by providing sufficient fluid flow through the primary side of TED 420. Sensors 462 can be located on both primary side flow path 432 and waste side flow path 434. Sensors 462 can be used to detect or measure the temperature difference between the fluid flows on primary side flow path 432 and waste side flow path 434. Alternatively, sensors 462 can be located upstream of TED 420 and downstream of TED 420 on primary side flow path 432. Controller 460 can receive a signal from sensor 462 indicating the temperature difference. For a given position of flow control valve 440, controller 460 can compare the temperature difference from the signal with an expected temperature difference between the primary and waste sides of TED 420. If the measured temperature difference is less than the expected temperature difference (e.g., within a certain tolerance), this may indicate the presence of condensation in the primary side flow path. Therefore, the controller 460 can change the operation of the control valve 440 and / or the fluid moving device 450 to increase the fluid flow through the primary-side flow path, thereby reducing condensation / humidity. In another embodiment, the thermal conditioning system 400 can include a humidity sensor on the primary-side flow path to detect humidity or condensation. Based on the signal from the humidity sensor, the controller 460 can change the operation of the control valve 440 and / or the fluid moving device 450 to increase the fluid flow through the primary-side flow path, thereby reducing condensation / humidity.

[0098] Figure 10 A control method for a thermal regulation system (e.g., systems 100, 200, 300, 400 described above) is outlined. At step 505, the method may be initiated. Initiation may be based on powering a vehicle or other system of which the thermal regulation system is a component, or the thermal regulation system itself. At step 510, the thermal regulation system may operate in a first mode for a first period of time. The first mode may be any of the operating modes described above. In one specific embodiment, the first mode is High Delta TMode. In the first mode, fluid flow passes through the thermal regulation system primarily along a waste side path. The first mode may include powering a TED having a primary side and a waste side. The first mode may be an initial mode. In one specific embodiment, High Delta TMode is the initial mode.

[0099] At step 515, the thermal regulation system may operate in a second mode for a second period of time, wherein the fluid flow through the thermal regulation system changes relative to the fluid flow during the first mode. The fluid flow during the second mode may be directed at a different ratio between the main side path and the waste side path than during the first mode. In the second mode, the fluid flow along the main side path may be increased relative to the fluid flow along the main side path in the first mode. This may increase the temperature of the fluid flow along the main side path (e.g., reduce the temperature difference between the main side and the waste side of TED420) and / or reduce condensation or humidity therein. In the second mode, the fluid flow along the main side path may be increased to match the fluid flow along the waste side path. In the second mode, the fluid flow may be primarily along the main side path. In some embodiments, the second mode may be a High AirFlow Mode or a Ventilation Mode.

[0100] The conversion between the main side path and the waste side path can be achieved using a valve to change the direction of fluid flow between the main side flow path and the waste side flow path. Converting the operation from the first mode to the second mode can be based on any one of a number of variables. The first time period can be based on a preselected time, after which the conversion occurs automatically. The conversion can be based on detecting a target temperature of the fluid flow using a temperature sensor (e.g., on the main side path) and / or maintaining that temperature for a specified time period. The conversion can be based on detecting condensation. The conversion can be based on measuring the temperature difference between the fluid flow on the main side path and the waste side path. A temperature difference that is too low may indicate condensation or humidity in the main side path. The conversion can be based on maintaining a preset temperature difference between the main side path and the waste side path. The first and second time periods can be set to maintain a preset temperature difference between the main side and the waste side of the thermoelectric device.

[0101] The control method may optionally include operating the thermal conditioning system in a third mode for a third period of time, wherein fluid flow through the thermal conditioning system may be reduced relative to the second mode. In the third mode, power to the TED may be reduced relative to the second mode. The third mode may be used to reduce power consumption of the thermal conditioning system. For example, the third mode may be operated once a comfortable cabin temperature is achieved through operation in the first and second modes.

[0102] Figure 11Another embodiment of a thermal regulation system 600 is shown, which includes a housing 610. The system 600 may include a TED 620. The TED 620 may be a single unit or include two or more independent TED units. The housing 610 of the system 600 may include a main side flow path 632 and a waste side flow path 634. The system 600 may include a flap valve 640. The flap valve 640 may include a louver 644. The louver 644 may be located between the main side flow path 632 and the waste side flow path 634. The louver 644 may be moved by a motor (e.g., a stepper motor). The louver 644 may be rotated about an axis by the motor. The louver 644 may be mounted on a central wall 646 of the housing 610. The central wall 646 may include one or more mounting members 648 for securing an axis 647. This arrangement may improve airflow over the louver 644.

[0103] To help describe the disclosed embodiments, terms such as upward, upper, downward, lower, vertical, horizontal, upstream, and downstream have been used above to describe the drawings. However, it should be understood that the illustrated embodiments can be positioned and oriented in various desired positions.

[0104] It should be noted that the terms "couple," "coupled," "coupled," or other variations of the word "coupled" as used herein may represent an indirect or direct connection. For example, if a first component is "coupled" to a second component, the first component may be indirectly connected to the second component via another component, or directly connected to the second component.

[0105] The functions of the controller described herein can be stored as one or more instructions on a processor-readable or computer-readable medium. The term "computer-readable medium" refers to any available medium that can be accessed by a computer or processor. As an example and not limitation, such a medium may include a random access memory (RAM), a read-only memory (ROM), an electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), a flash memory, a compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM) or other optical disc storage devices, a magnetic disk storage device or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium that can be used to store desired program codes in the form of instructions or data structures and can be accessed by a computer. It should be noted that computer-readable media can be tangible and non-temporary. As used herein, the term "code" can refer to software, instructions, code or data that can be executed by a computing device or processor.

[0106] Although several embodiments and examples are disclosed herein, this application extends beyond the specifically disclosed embodiments to other alternative embodiments and / or uses of the invention and modifications and equivalents thereof. It is also contemplated that various combinations or sub-combinations of the specific features and aspects of the embodiments may be made and still fall within the scope of the invention. Therefore, it should be understood that the various features and aspects of the disclosed embodiments may be combined or substituted with each other to form different forms of the disclosed invention. Therefore, the scope of the invention disclosed herein should not be limited by the specifically disclosed embodiments described above, but should be determined solely by a fair reading of the appended claims.

[0107] Although the foregoing description of the preferred embodiment has shown, described, and pointed out certain novel features, it should be understood that various omissions, substitutions, and changes may be made to the details of the illustrated apparatus and its use by those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit of the present disclosure. Therefore, the scope of the present invention should not be limited by the foregoing discussion, which is intended to illustrate and not to limit the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A system for thermally regulating and moving fluids, comprising: a thermoelectric device configured to convert electrical energy into thermal energy, producing a temperature change in response to an electric current applied thereto, the thermoelectric device having a primary side and a waste side; a fluid moving device configured to generate a fluid flow in thermal communication with a thermoelectric device such that thermal energy generated by the thermoelectric device is transferred to the fluid flow; as well as A flow control valve is positioned along a fluid flow path for the fluid flow, and the flow control valve is configured to divide the fluid flow path into a main-side fluid flow path along the main side of the thermoelectric device and a waste-side fluid flow path along the waste side of the thermoelectric device, to completely close the waste-side fluid flow path and direct fluid flow along the main-side fluid flow path, and to completely close the main-side fluid flow path and direct fluid flow along the waste-side fluid flow path.

2. The system according to claim 1, further comprising: A control unit is operatively connected to the fluid moving device and the flow control valve and configured to operate the fluid moving device and the flow control valve.

3. The system according to claim 2, further comprising: a sensor configured to provide a signal indicative of a temperature of the fluid flow; and Wherein, the control unit is configured to operate the flow control valve based on the signal.

4. The system according to claim 2 or 3, wherein: The control unit is configured to adjust the flow control valve so that equal proportions of fluid flow are directed to the waste-side fluid flow path and the main-side fluid flow path.

5. The system according to claim 2 or 3, wherein: The control unit is configured to adjust the flow control valve position based on a desired primary-side temperature.

6. The system according to claim 5, wherein: The control unit is configured to reduce the primary side temperature and / or increase the temperature difference between the primary and waste sides by adjusting the flow control valve to direct more fluid flow to the waste side fluid flow path than to the primary side fluid flow path.

7. The system according to claim 6, wherein: The flow control valve is adjusted from a fully open position to a fully closed position.

8. The system according to claim 2 or 3, wherein: The control unit is configured to adjust the flow control valve so that less than 20% of the total volume of the fluid flow on the primary side fluid flow path and the waste side fluid flow path is directed to the primary side fluid flow path to achieve a high temperature difference between the primary side and the waste side of the thermoelectric device.

9. The system according to claim 2 or 3, wherein: The control unit is configured to adjust a proportion of the fluid flow directed to the primary-side fluid flow path to prevent condensation in the fluid flow.

10. The system according to claim 2 or 3, wherein: The control unit is configured to regulate a fluid flow provided by the fluid moving device based on a position of the flow control valve.

11. The system according to claim 10, wherein: The control unit is configured to increase the fluid flow when the fluid flow is proportionally distributed toward the primary-side fluid flow path.

12. The system according to claim 10, wherein: The control unit is configured to maintain the fluid flow by reducing a speed of the fluid moving device and by reducing a voltage applied to the fluid moving device when the position of the flow control valve is increasing back pressure on the fluid moving device.

13. The system according to claim 2 or 3, wherein: The control unit is configured to adjust a proportion of the fluid flow directed to the primary-side fluid flow path based on cabin ambient humidity.

14. The system according to claim 2 or 3, wherein: The control unit is configured to adjust the conditioned air temperature by adjusting a ratio of fluid flows along the main-side fluid flow path and the bypass flow path and mixing cooler air from the main-side fluid flow path with warmer air from the bypass flow path to produce conditioned air at an intermediate temperature.

15. The system according to claim 2 or 3, wherein: The control unit is configured to direct more fluid flow to the primary-side fluid flow path than to the waste-side fluid flow path to prevent condensation in the fluid flow and increase the cooling capacity of the system within a limited temperature difference between the primary and waste sides of the thermoelectric device.

16. The system according to claim 2 or 3, wherein: The control unit is configured to direct a first proportion of fluid flow to the primary-side fluid flow path for a first period of time and a second proportion of fluid flow to the primary-side fluid flow path for a second period of time, the first period of time being set to form an acceptable amount of condensation in the fluid flow.

17. The system according to claim 16, wherein: The first period and / or the second period is configured to maintain a preset temperature difference between the primary side and the waste side of the thermoelectric device.

18. The system of claim 2, wherein: The control unit is configured to direct all or most of the fluid flow along the primary side fluid flow path to provide a high ventilation rate.

19. The system according to claim 2 or 3, wherein: The control unit is configured to operate the thermoelectric device as a heater and direct all or most of the fluid flow along the primary side fluid flow path to increase heating capacity and avoid losses associated with heat removal and air flow on the waste side of the thermoelectric device.

20. The system according to claim 2 or 3, wherein: The control unit is configured to adjust the flow control valve position based on cabin air temperature and humidity.

21. The system of claim 1, further comprising: The housing includes an inlet of a fluid flow path, an outlet of the primary-side fluid flow path, and an exhaust of the waste-side fluid flow path, wherein the thermoelectric device is located between the primary-side fluid flow path and the waste-side fluid flow path.

22. The system of claim 21, wherein: The housing includes a central wall between the primary-side fluid flow path and the waste-side fluid flow path.

23. The system of claim 22, wherein: The flow control valve is aligned with the central wall and is located upstream of the thermoelectric device along the fluid flow path.

24. The system of claim 21, wherein: The primary side fluid flow path terminates in a climate controlled environment.

25. The system of claim 21, wherein: The housing also includes a bypass path around the thermoelectric device.

26. The system of claim 21, wherein: The flow control valve includes a rotary valve.

27. The system of claim 1, wherein: The fluid moving device is located upstream of the thermoelectric device and the flow control valve along the fluid flow path.

28. The system of claim 1 further comprising a primary side heat exchanger and a waste side heat exchanger, wherein the primary side heat exchanger comprises a plurality of metal fins coupled to a primary side of the thermoelectric device, and the waste side heat exchanger comprises a plurality of metal fins coupled to a waste side of the thermoelectric device.

29. The system of claim 1, wherein: Fluid flow through the primary side of the thermoelectric device on the primary side fluid flow path is parallel to and in the same direction as fluid flow through the waste side of the thermoelectric device on the waste side fluid flow path.

30. The system of claim 1, wherein: The flow control valve includes a first valve on the primary-side fluid flow path.

31. The system of claim 30, wherein: The first valve is located downstream from the thermoelectric device along a fluid flow path of the thermoelectric device.

32. The system of claim 30, wherein: The flow control valve includes a second valve on the waste-side fluid flow path.

33. The system of claim 32, wherein: The second valve is located downstream from the thermoelectric device along a fluid flow path of the thermoelectric device.

34. The system of claim 1, wherein: The flow control valve includes a louver coupled to a rotatable shaft of a motor.

35. The system of claim 34, wherein: The motor is a stepper motor.

36. The system of claim 1, wherein: The flow control valve includes a rotary valve, a barrel valve or a needle valve.

37. The system of claim 2, wherein: The control unit is configured to adjust a position of the flow control valve to partially close the primary-side fluid flow path.

38. The system of claim 2, wherein: The control unit is configured to adjust a position of the flow control valve to partially close the waste-side fluid flow path.

39. The system of claim 2, wherein: The control unit is configured to adjust a position of the flow control valve to fully close the primary-side fluid flow path.

40. The system of claim 2, wherein: The control unit is configured to adjust the position of the flow control valve to fully close the waste-side fluid flow path.

41. A control method for a heat regulation system, comprising: Powering a thermoelectric device of a heat regulation system having a primary side and a waste side; operating the thermal regulation system in a first mode for a first period of time, wherein a fluid flows through the thermal regulation system; splitting the fluid flow with a valve during the first period such that a first portion of the fluid flow is directed through a waste-side flow path along a waste side of the thermoelectric device at a first flow rate and a second portion of the fluid flow is directed through a primary-side flow path along a primary side of the thermoelectric device at a second flow rate; measuring a temperature difference between the primary side and the spent side and changing operation from a first mode to a second mode based on detecting the measured temperature difference; operating the thermal conditioning system in the second mode for a second period of time; and Compared to the first mode, the ratio between the first flow rate and the second flow rate is adjusted.

42. The control method according to claim 41, wherein: The first mode is an initial mode.

43. The control method of claim 41, further comprising detecting a target temperature of the fluid flow using a temperature sensor, and changing the operation from the first mode to the second mode based on the detected target temperature.

44. The control method according to claim 43, wherein: The target temperature is detected on the primary side.

45. The control method according to claim 41, wherein: The valve is configured to fully close the waste-side flow path and direct fluid flow along the main-side flow path, and to fully close the main-side flow path and direct fluid flow along the waste-side flow path.

46. ​​The control method of claim 41 further comprising detecting condensation on the primary side and changing operation from the first mode to the second mode based on the detected condensation.

47. The control method according to claim 41, wherein: In the second mode, a ratio between a first flow rate through the waste side and a second flow rate through the primary side is reduced relative to the first mode.

48. The control method according to claim 41, wherein: In the second mode, the first flow rate through the waste side and the second flow rate through the primary side are approximately equal.

49. The control method according to claim 41, wherein: In the second mode, a first flow rate through the waste side is less than a second flow rate through the primary side.

50. The control method of claim 41, further comprising operating the thermal conditioning system in a third mode for a third period of time, in which at least one of total fluid flow through the thermal conditioning system and power to the thermoelectric device is reduced relative to the second mode.

51. The control method of claim 41 further comprising directing fluid flow between the primary side and the waste side using a valve.

52. A thermal regulation system comprising: a TED having a primary side and a waste side; a housing including a fluid flow path, the housing comprising: a primary side path of the fluid flow path along a primary side of the TED; a waste side path of the fluid flow path along a waste side of the TED; a fluid moving device configured to generate a fluid flow from an inlet conduit along the fluid flow path toward the primary-side path and the waste-side path; a valve located in the inlet conduit, the valve configured to completely block fluid communication between the inlet conduit and the primary-side path based on a position of the valve, and to completely block fluid communication between the inlet conduit and the waste-side path based on a position of the valve; and A controller configured to: operating the thermal conditioning system in a first mode for a first period of time, wherein the fluid moving device generates a first fluid flow along a waste side path at a first flow rate and a second fluid flow along a main side path at a second flow rate; and The thermal regulation system is operated in a second mode for a second period, wherein the position of the valve is adjusted relative to the position of the valve during the first mode to change the ratio between the first flow rate and the second flow rate.

53. The system of claim 52, wherein: The first mode is an initial mode.

54. The system of claim 52, further comprising: a temperature sensor configured to detect a temperature of the second fluid stream; Wherein, the controller is further configured to receive a signal from the temperature sensor and change the operation from the first mode to the second mode based on the signal.

55. The system of claim 52, further comprising: a temperature sensor configured to detect a temperature difference between the first fluid flow and the second fluid flow; Wherein, the controller is further configured to receive a signal from the temperature sensor and change the operation from the first mode to the second mode based on the signal.

56. The system of claim 52, further comprising: a humidity sensor configured to detect humidity of the second fluid stream; The controller is further configured to receive a signal from a humidity sensor and change the operation from the first mode to the second mode based on the signal.

57. The system of claim 52, wherein: In the second mode, the first flow rate and the second flow rate are equal.

58. The system of claim 52, wherein: In the second mode, the second flow rate is greater than the first flow rate.

59. The system of claim 52, wherein: The controller is further configured to operate the thermal conditioning system in a third mode for a third period, wherein at least one of fluid flow through the thermal conditioning system and power to the TED is reduced relative to the second mode.

60. The system of claim 52, wherein: The housing includes an inlet, an outlet of the main side path, and a drain outlet of the waste side path, and the TED is located between the main side path and the waste side path.

61. The system of claim 60, wherein: The housing includes a central wall between the main side path and the waste side path.

62. The system of claim 61, wherein: The valve is aligned with the central wall and is located upstream of the TED along the fluid flow path.

63. The system of claim 60, wherein: The primary side path terminates in a climate controlled environment.

64. The system of claim 60, wherein: The housing also includes a bypass path around the TED.

65. The system of claim 64, wherein: The valve comprises a rotary valve.

66. The system of claim 52, wherein: The fluid moving device is located upstream of the TED and the valve along the fluid flow path.

67. The system of claim 52, further comprising a main side heat exchanger comprising a plurality of metal fins coupled to a main side of the TED and a waste side heat exchanger comprising a plurality of metal fins coupled to a waste side of the TED.

68. The system of claim 52, wherein: The fluid flow flowing through the primary side of the TED on the primary side path is parallel to and in the same direction as the fluid flow flowing through the waste side of the TED on the waste side path.

69. The system of claim 52, wherein: The valves include a first valve on the main-side path.

70. The system of claim 69, wherein: The first valve is located downstream of the TED along a fluid flow path of the TED.

71. The system of claim 69, wherein: The valves include a second valve on the waste side path.

72. The system of claim 71, wherein The second valve is located downstream of the TED along a fluid flow path of the TED.

73. The system of claim 52, wherein: The valve includes a louver coupled to a rotatable shaft of a motor.

74. The system of claim 73, wherein: The motor is a stepper motor.

75. The system of claim 52, wherein: The valve includes a rotary valve, a barrel valve or a needle valve.

76. The system of claim 52, wherein: The controller is configured to adjust a position of the valve to partially close the primary-side path.

77. The system of claim 52, wherein: The controller is configured to adjust the position of the valve to partially close the waste side path.

78. The system of claim 52, wherein: The controller is configured to adjust the position of the valve to fully close the primary-side path.

79. The system of claim 52, wherein: The controller is configured to adjust the position of the valve to fully close the waste side path.

80. The system of claim 52, wherein: The valve is configured to partially open the waste side path depending on the position of the valve.

81. The system of claim 52, wherein: The valve includes a first louver configured to open and close fluid communication between the inlet conduit and the primary-side path depending on a position of the valve.

82. The system of claim 81, wherein The valve includes a rotary valve having the first louver.

83. The system of claim 52, wherein: The housing also includes a bypass path configured to direct at least a portion of the fluid flow around the main-side path and the waste-side path.

Images