Thermal adjustment device

Abstract

The thermal sensation adjustment device comprises: a thermal stimulation unit (5, 6, 7, 8) configured to apply thermal stimulation to multiple body parts of an occupant and capable of changing the distribution of thermal stimulation in different body parts; a selection unit (S110) for selecting a mode from two or more modes of a mode for calming the mind and a mode for activating the mind, and a mode for calming the body and a mode for activating the body; and a stimulation control unit (S170) for controlling the thermal stimulation unit based on a target thermal sensation distribution corresponding to the selected mode, wherein each target thermal sensation distribution is data representing a plurality of target values ​​of thermal sensation for each of the multiple body parts, the target values ​​of thermal sensation for a designated body part among the multiple body parts of the target thermal sensation distribution are different from each other, and the stimulation control unit controls the thermal stimulation unit so that the thermal stimulation applied to the designated body part when any mode is selected is different from the thermal stimulation applied to the designated body part when another mode is selected by the selection unit.

Description

[0001] Cross-reference to related applications

[0002] 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 contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] The invention relates to a thermal sensation adjusting device. Background Art

[0004] Patent document 1 discloses a control device that controls the operation of a thermal sense imparting device that imparts a sense of warmth to multiple parts of a body of a vehicle occupant independently of each other. The control device determines whether each of the multiple parts is an insufficient sense of warmth part with insufficient sense of warmth or a sufficient sense of warmth part with sufficient sense of warmth. Then, in the case of an insufficient sense of warmth part, the control device controls the operation of the thermal sense imparting device so that the insufficient sense of warmth part is preferentially imparted with a sense of warmth over the sufficient sense of warmth part.

[0005] Prior art literature

[0006] Patent Literature

[0007] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2018-62297

[0008] Patent Document 1 does not mention the mental state or physical state of the occupant. According to the inventor's research, the distribution of different parts of the occupant's body that feel comfortable warmth is different when the occupant's mind is in a quiet state and when it is in an active state. In addition, according to the inventor's research, the distribution of each part of the occupant's body is also different when the occupant is in a quiet state and when the occupant is in an active state. Summary of the invention

[0009] An object of the present invention is to adjust the distribution of thermal sensations in a plurality of body parts of an occupant according to a desired mental state or physical state of the occupant.

[0010] According to one aspect of the present invention, a thermal sensation adjustment device for adjusting the thermal sensation of a vehicle occupant comprises: a thermal stimulation unit configured to apply thermal stimulation to a plurality of body parts of the occupant and capable of changing the distribution of the thermal stimulation in different body parts; a selection unit configured to select a mode from at least two of 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; and a stimulation control unit configured to control the thermal stimulation unit based on a target thermal sensation distribution corresponding to the mode selected by the selection unit. , the target thermal sensation distributions corresponding to the at least two modes are data representing target values ​​of multiple thermal sensations for each of the multiple body parts, respectively, the target values ​​of thermal sensation for a specified body part among the multiple body parts of each target thermal sensation distribution are different from each other, and the stimulation control unit controls the thermal stimulation unit so that the thermal stimulation applied to the specified body part when any one of the at least two modes is selected by the selection unit is different from the thermal stimulation applied to the specified body part when the other one of the at least two modes is selected by the selection unit.

[0011] In addition, the reference symbols in parentheses attached to each component etc. are examples showing the correspondence relationship between the component etc. and the specific component etc. described in the embodiment described later. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0012] Figure 1 It is a schematic diagram showing the interior of the vehicle cabin in the first embodiment.

[0013] Figure 2 This is a diagram of the structure of the air conditioner casing and its surrounding equipment.

[0014] Figure 3 This is a block diagram showing the electrical structure of the thermal sensation adjusting device.

[0015] Figure 4 This is a flowchart of the processing executed by the air-conditioning ECU.

[0016] Figure 5 It is a diagram showing four modes.

[0017] Figure 6 This is a graph showing the target thermal sensation distribution corresponding to the relaxation mode.

[0018] Figure 7 This is a graph showing the target thermal sensation distribution corresponding to the focus mode.

[0019] Figure 8 This is a graph showing the target thermal sensation distribution according to the sleep pattern.

[0020] Fig. 9 This is a graph showing the target thermal sensation distribution corresponding to the vitality mode.

[0021] Fig.10 This is a graph showing the correspondence between the target value of thermal sensation and the target SET*.

[0022] Fig.11 This is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the thermal sensation adjusting device and its periphery in the second embodiment.

[0023] Fig.12 This is a flowchart showing the details of the process of determining the target SET*.

[0024] Fig.13 This is a graph showing the target thermal sensation distribution corresponding to the relaxation mode.

[0025] Fig.14 This is a graph showing the target thermal sensation distribution corresponding to the focus mode.

[0026] Fig.15 This is a graph showing the target thermal sensation distribution according to the sleep pattern.

[0027] Fig.16 This is a graph showing the target thermal sensation distribution corresponding to the vitality mode.

[0028] Fig.17 This is a flowchart of the display processing executed by the air conditioning ECU.

[0029] Fig.18 A diagram showing an example of a display screen on a display device.

[0030] Fig.19 A diagram showing an example of a display screen on a display device.

[0031] Fig. 20 A diagram showing an example of a display screen on a display device.

[0032] Fig.21 A diagram showing an example of a display screen on a display device.

[0033] Fig. 22 A diagram showing an example of a display screen on a display device.

[0034] Fig.23 This is a flowchart of a display process executed by the air-conditioning ECU in the third embodiment.

[0035] Fig.24 A diagram showing an example of a display screen on a display device.

[0036] Fig.25A diagram showing an example of a display screen on a display device. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0037] (First Embodiment)

[0038] The first embodiment is described below. Figure 1 The vehicle 1 shown in the figure adjusts the thermal sensation of the passenger 3 sitting in the driver's seat 2. The thermal sensation adjustment device includes: an air conditioning unit 5 arranged inside a baffle 4, a waist heater 6 installed on the driver's seat 2, a thigh heater 7, a calf heater 8, and a thermal imager 9. Hereinafter, up, down, left, and right refer to up, down, left, and right in the vehicle.

[0039] The air conditioning unit 5 is a device that blows out temperature-controlled air into the vehicle interior from a defroster outlet 41 , a face outlet 42 , and a foot outlet 43 attached to the surface of the damper 4 .

[0040] The lumbar heater 6 is an electric heater provided on the front surface side of the seat back of the driver's seat 2 below the vertical center of the seat back. The lumbar heater 6 mainly heats the lumbar region 36 of the occupant 3.

[0041] The thigh heater 7 is an electric heater provided on the upper surface side of the seat cushion of the driver's seat 2. The thigh heater 7 mainly heats the left and right thighs 37 of the occupant 3.

[0042] The calf heater 8 is an electric heater provided on the front surface side of the seat cushion of the driver's seat 2. The calf heater 8 mainly heats the left and right calf regions 38 of the occupant 3.

[0043] The air conditioning unit 5, waist heater 6, thigh heater 7, calf heater 8, and thermal imager 9 as a whole correspond to a thermal stimulation portion that applies thermal stimulation to the occupant 3. The thermal stimulation is a stimulation that the occupant 3 can feel as if thermal stimulation is applied to the skin.

[0044] The thermal imager 9 is a sensor that acquires infrared rays emitted from a predetermined imaging range and generates and outputs an image representing the surface temperature of each position in the imaging range as a pixel value based on the acquired infrared rays. The thermal imaging imaging range includes the entire body of the occupant 3 .

[0045] The air conditioning unit 5 includes an air conditioning housing 11, an indoor / outdoor air switching door 12, a centrifugal fan 131, an evaporator 14, a heater core 15, an air mixing door 16, a face door 17, and a foot door 18. In addition, the air conditioning unit 5 includes a face duct 51, a foot duct 52, a defrost duct 53, and a wind direction adjustment plate 110. In addition, the air conditioning unit 5 includes a fan actuator 131a, an air mixing actuator 16a, a blow mode actuator 17a, an indoor / outdoor air mode actuator 12a, a wind direction actuator 110a, and the like.

[0046] The air conditioning housing 11 surrounds a ventilation passage 111 through which temperature-adjusted air blown into the vehicle interior passes. The inside-outside air switching door 12 is a component that adjusts the opening area of ​​the inside air inlet 112 and the opening area of ​​the outside air inlet 113. The inside-outside air switching door 12 rotates in a manner that opens the opening of one of the inside air inlet 112 and the outside air inlet 113 and closes the opening of the other. Thus, the inside-outside air switching door 12 can adjust the ratio of the air volume of the inside air and the air volume of the outside air introduced into the ventilation passage 111 (i.e., the inside-outside air ratio). Here, the inside air is the air inside the vehicle interior, and the outside air is the air outside the vehicle exterior. The inside-outside air mode actuator 12a is an actuator that drives the inside-outside air switching door 12, such as Figure 3 As shown, the indoor and outdoor air mode actuator 12a is controlled by the air conditioning ECU 40. The air conditioning ECU 40 is also a component of the thermal sensation adjustment device.

[0047] If the inner air inlet 112 is open, the centrifugal fan 131 rotates to introduce the inner air from the inner air inlet 112 into the ventilation path 111. If the outer air inlet 113 is open, the centrifugal fan 131 rotates to introduce the outer air from the outer air inlet 113 into the ventilation path 111, and the centrifugal fan 131 delivers the introduced air to the air flow downstream side of the centrifugal fan 131 in the ventilation path 111. The fan actuator 131a is an actuator for driving the centrifugal fan 131. Figure 3 As shown, the fan actuator 131 a is controlled by the air-conditioning ECU 40 .

[0048] The evaporator 14 is arranged in the air flow downstream of the centrifugal fan 131 in the ventilation path 111. The evaporator 14 cools the air delivered from the centrifugal fan 131. The evaporator 14, together with the compressor, condenser, and expansion valve, which are not shown, constitute a well-known refrigeration cycle. The refrigeration cycle is also a structural element of the thermal sense adjustment device. When the refrigerant flowing in the refrigeration cycle circulates in the evaporator 14, the refrigerant exchanges heat with the air. Through this heat exchange, the refrigerant evaporates and the air is cooled.

[0049] The heater core 15 is arranged in the air flow downstream of the evaporator 14 in the ventilation path 111. The heater core 15 heats the air after passing through the evaporator 14. The engine cooling water flows in the heater core 15, and the air is heated by heat exchange between the engine cooling water and the air. In addition, the heater core 15 can also replace the air after passing through the evaporator 14 with a heating electric heater.

[0050] 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 the cold air that bypasses the heater core 15 after passing through the evaporator 14 to the air volume of the warm air that passes through the heater core 15 after passing through the evaporator 14, that is, the air mix ratio. The air mix actuator 16a is an actuator that drives the air mix door 16. Figure 3 As shown, the air mixing actuator 16 a is controlled by the air-conditioning ECU 40 .

[0051] like Figure 2 As shown, a face opening 114, a foot opening 115, and a defroster opening 116 are formed on the downstream side of the air flow direction of the ventilation path 111 of the air conditioning housing 11 for blowing air from the ventilation path 111 into the vehicle interior. Air flows into the face opening 114, the foot opening 115, and the defroster opening 116 from an air mixing space in the ventilation path 111 where air bypassing the heater core 15 and air passing through the heater core 15 are mixed.

[0052] Mode switching doors for opening and closing the face opening 114, the foot opening 115, and the defrost opening 116 are provided. The mode switching door is composed of a face door 17, a foot door 18, and a defrost 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 defrost door 19 opens and closes the defrost opening 116.

[0053] The blow-out mode actuator 17a is an actuator for driving the face door 17, the foot door 18, and the defrost door 19. Figure 3 As shown, the blow-out mode actuator 17a is controlled by the air conditioning ECU 40. The blow-out mode is controlled by the air mixing actuator 16a. The blow-out mode includes, for example, a face mode, a foot mode, and a defrost mode. The face mode is a blow-out mode in which the face door 17 is open and the foot door 18 and the defrost door 19 are closed. The foot mode is a blow-out mode in which the foot door 18 is open and the face door 17 and the defrost door 19 are closed. The defrost mode is a blow-out mode in which the defrost door 19 is open and the face door 17 and the foot door 18 are closed.

[0054] One end of the face duct 51 is connected to the face opening 114, and the face outlet 42 as the other end is opened at a position of the air conditioning unit 5 that is opposite to the seat back of the driver's seat 2. The air passing through the face opening 114 from the ventilation path 111 is blown into the vehicle compartment from the face outlet 42 after passing through the face duct 51. The air blown out from the face outlet 42 flows toward the upper body of the occupant 3 sitting on the driver's seat 2 or around it.

[0055] One end of the foot duct 52 is connected to the foot opening 115, and the foot outlet 43 as the other end is opened in the baffle 4 to face the foot space in front of the seat cushion of the driver's seat 2. The air passing through the foot opening 115 from the ventilation path 111 is blown into the vehicle compartment from the foot outlet 43 after passing through the foot duct 52. The air blown out from the foot outlet 43 flows toward the left and right feet of the occupant 3 sitting on the driver's seat 2 and their surroundings.

[0056] One end of the defrost duct 53 is connected to the defrost opening 116, and the defrost outlet 41 is opened in the baffle 4 opposite to the windshield. The air passing through the defrost opening 116 from the ventilation path 111 is blown into the vehicle compartment from the defrost outlet 41 after passing through the defrost duct 53. The air blown out from the defrost outlet 41 flows toward the windshield or its surroundings.

[0057] In this way, the defrost outlet 41, the face outlet 42, and the foot outlet 43 are opened at different positions in the vehicle interior. Moreover, the upper body of the passenger 3 is most strongly affected by the air blown out of the face outlet 42. In addition, the left and right feet of the passenger 3 are most strongly affected by the air blown out of the foot outlet 43.

[0058] In addition, if Figure 2 As shown in FIG. 1 , a wind direction adjusting plate 110 is installed at the face outlet 42. The wind direction adjusting plate 110 adjusts the direction of the air blown from the face outlet 42 into the vehicle interior. Specifically, by changing the posture of the wind direction adjusting plate 110, the direction of the flow 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. Figure 3 As shown, the wind direction actuator 110 a is controlled by the air-conditioning ECU 40 .

[0059] In addition, if Figure 3As shown, the thermal sense adjustment device includes an outside air temperature sensor 22, an inside air temperature sensor 23, a sunshine sensor 24, and a state setting unit 21. The outside air temperature sensor 22 outputs a detection signal corresponding to the temperature of the air outside the vehicle (i.e., the outside air). The inside air temperature sensor 23 outputs a detection signal corresponding to the temperature of the air inside the vehicle (i.e., the inside air). The sunshine sensor 24 outputs a detection signal corresponding to the amount of sunshine into the vehicle.

[0060] The state setting unit 21 is a device that receives an input operation from the occupant 3. Specifically, the state setting unit 21 includes four switches 211, 212, 213, and 214 that can be operated individually.

[0061] The air conditioning ECU 40 has a processing unit 401, a storage unit 402, etc. The storage unit 402 includes various memories such as RAM, ROM, and flash memory. RAM is a writable volatile storage medium. ROM is a non-writable non-volatile storage medium. Flash memory is a writable non-volatile storage medium. The processing unit 401, which is equivalent to a CPU, executes a program not shown in the figure stored in the ROM and the flash memory, and implements various processing described later by using the RAM as a work area during execution. RAM, ROM, and flash memory are all non-transient physical storage media. In the following, for simplicity, the processing performed by the processing unit 401 is described as the processing performed by the air conditioning ECU 40.

[0062] In addition, the thermal stimulation part including the air conditioning unit 5, the waist heater 6, the thigh heater 7, and the calf heater 8 is configured to change the distribution of different body parts to which the thermal stimulation is applied to the occupant 3. In fact, the waist heater 6, the thigh heater 7, and the calf heater 8 can be independently adjusted in output by the air conditioning ECU 40. In addition, the temperature and air volume of the air delivered to the vehicle interior by the air conditioning unit 5 can also be adjusted independently of the operation of the waist heater 6, the thigh heater 7, and the calf heater 8 by the air conditioning ECU 40. In addition, the air conditioning ECU 40 can switch between blowing air from the face outlet 42 and blowing air from the foot outlet 43 by changing the outlet mode. In addition, the air conditioning ECU 40 can control the direction of the air blown out from the face outlet 42 by controlling the direction of the wind direction adjustment plate 110. Thus, for example, the distribution of different body parts to which the thermal stimulation is applied can be adjusted so that the strongest thermal stimulation is applied to any one of the multiple body parts 30 to 39 of the occupant 3.

[0063] The operation of the thermal sensation adjustment device configured as described above will be described below. In order to guide the mental state or physical state of the occupant 3 to a desired state, the air conditioning ECU 40 provides a thermal sensation to a plurality of body parts of the occupant 3 as needed.

[0064] Therefore, the air conditioning ECU 40 executes the following Figure 4 The air conditioning ECU 40 executes the processing shown in the figure when the main switch of the vehicle 1 is turned on. Figure 4 The main switch is a switch that switches the main power supply of the vehicle 1 on and off. When the main switch is turned on, the main power supply of the vehicle 1 is turned on. Figure 4 When processing, there may be a situation where the vehicle 1 is traveling, and there may also be a situation where the vehicle 1 is stopped.

[0065] exist Figure 4 In the process of, first, in step S110, the air conditioning ECU 40 selects a mode from four modes. Here, the mode refers to a mode that represents the mental or physical state that the occupant 3 is expected to achieve. Specifically, Figure 5 As shown, the four modes are relaxation mode M1, focus mode M2, sleep mode B1, and vitality mode B2.

[0066] The relaxation mode M1 is a mode for calming the mind of the occupant. As described later, in the relaxation mode M1, the thermal sensation adjustment device applies thermal stimulation to the occupant 3 so that the occupant 3 can relax. For example, when the vehicle 1 is stopped and the vehicle 1 is performing an automatic driving operation that does not require any driving operation by the occupant 3, the relaxation mode M1 can be selected.

[0067] The concentration mode M2 ​​is a mode for activating the mind of the occupant. As described later, in the concentration mode M2, the thermal sensation adjustment device applies thermal stimulation to the occupant 3 so that the occupant can concentrate on intellectual work such as driving operation of the vehicle 1.

[0068] Sleep mode B1 is a mode for calming the body of the occupant. As described later, in sleep mode B1, the thermal sensation adjustment device applies thermal stimulation to the occupant 3 so that the occupant 3 can take a nap. For example, when the vehicle 1 is stopped and the vehicle 1 is performing an automatic driving operation that does not require any driving operation by the occupant 3, the sleep mode B1 can be selected.

[0069] The vitality mode B2 is a mode for activating the body of the occupant and eliminating fatigue. As described later, in the vitality mode B2, the thermal sensation adjustment device applies thermal stimulation to the occupant 3 so that the occupant 3 can concentrate on the driving operation of the vehicle 1.

[0070] As such, the relaxation mode M1 and the focus mode M2 ​​represent the mental state that the occupant 3 wants to achieve, and the sleep mode B1 and the vitality mode B2 represent the physical state that the occupant 3 wants to achieve. In addition, the relaxation mode M1 and the sleep mode B1 represent a quiet state or a stable state, and the focus mode M2 ​​and the vitality mode B2 represent an active state or a wakeful state.

[0071] The air conditioning ECU 40 selects one of the four modes based on the operation of the state setting unit 21 by the passenger 3. Specifically, when the switch 211 is operated by the passenger 3, the relaxation mode M1 is selected. In addition, when the switch 212 is operated by the passenger 3, the concentration mode M2 ​​is selected. In addition, when the switch 213 is operated by the passenger 3, the sleep mode B1 is selected. In addition, when the switch 214 is operated by the passenger 3, the vitality mode B2 is selected. In this way, the passenger 3 can adjust the environment in the vehicle interior to guide the mental state or physical state that he or she wants.

[0072] Next, in step S120, the air conditioning ECU 40 determines a target SET* for each of the plurality of body parts of the occupant 3 based on the pattern determined in step S110. Figure 1 As shown, the multiple body parts of the occupant 3 include a head 30 , a neck 31 , a chest 32 , left and right upper arms 33 , left and right forearms 34 , left and right hands 35 , a waist 36 , left and right thighs 37 , left and right calves 38 , and left and right feet 39 .

[0073] Specifically, first, Figure 6 , Figure 7 , Figure 8 , Fig. 9 As shown, the air conditioning ECU 40 sets the target thermal sensation distribution according to the mode determined in step S110. The target thermal sensation distribution is data indicating a plurality of target values ​​of thermal sensation for each of the plurality of body parts 30 to 39. The target thermal sensation distribution of each mode is pre-stored as a standard thermal sensation distribution in a storage unit 402 such as a ROM or flash memory of the air conditioning ECU 40. The air conditioning ECU 40 sets the target thermal sensation distribution by reading the target thermal sensation distribution corresponding to the determined mode from the storage unit 402.

[0074] Figure 6 , Figure 7 , Figure 8 , Fig. 9 These are the target thermal sensation distributions corresponding to relaxation mode M1, focus mode M2, sleep mode B1, and vitality mode B2. Figure 6 to Figure 9 In the figure, 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 thermal sensation, the warmer the thermal sensation at the corresponding body part. The smaller the target value of the thermal sensation, the cooler the thermal sensation at the corresponding body part.

[0075] The target thermal sensation distribution corresponding to each mode is created so as to assume that the occupant 3 feels comfortable in the mental state or physical state of the mode. These distributions are determined through experiments so that a large number of non-specific occupants feel average satisfaction. By creating them in this way, as long as the target thermal sensation distribution for a certain mode is achieved, the state of the occupant 3 is guided to achieve the mental state or physical state of the mode.

[0076] The four modes have different distributions of target values ​​of thermal sensation over the multiple body parts 30 to 39. In addition, in any of the four modes, the target values ​​of thermal sensation at the left and right thighs 37, the left and right calves 38, and the left and right feet 39 are larger than the target values ​​of thermal sensation at the head 30 and the neck 31.

[0077] In addition, no matter which two of the four modes are selected, the target values ​​of the warmth sensation of the head 30 are different from each other. Specifically, the target value of the warmth sensation of the head 30 increases in the order of sleep mode B1, relaxation mode M1, vitality mode B2, and concentration mode M2. In addition, the target value of the warmth sensation of the body parts 30 to 39 in the sleep mode B1 is the same as or greater than the target value of the warmth sensation of the same body parts in other modes.

[0078] In addition, the target value of the warmth sensation of each body part except the left and right feet 39 in the focus mode M2 ​​is larger than that in the relaxation mode M1. In addition, the target value of the warmth sensation of each body part in the vitality mode B2 is larger than that in the sleep mode B1. This is because in order to activate the mind or body, it is desirable to reduce the body temperature compared to the case of quieting it.

[0079] Furthermore, in step S120, the air conditioning ECU 40 uses the target values ​​of thermal sensation of the plurality of body parts included in the target thermal sensation distribution determined as described above to determine the target thermal sensation distribution. Fig.10 The correspondence table shown in the figure specifies SET* for multiple body parts. Then, the specified SET is used as the target SET*. That is, ten corresponding target SET* are specified according to the ten target values ​​of thermal sensation. Fig.10 In FIG. 1 , the horizontal axis represents SET*, and the vertical axis represents the target value of the thermal sensation of the body part. The correspondence table used by the air conditioning ECU 40 is stored in advance in a storage unit 402 such as a ROM or a flash memory of the air conditioning ECU 40 .

[0080] Here, SET* is explained. SET* is a temperature index called the standard new effective temperature. SET* is calculated by taking into account six factors: air temperature, humidity, radiation, and airflow on the environmental side, and metabolic rate and clothing amount on the human body side. The ASHRAE standard environment is defined in SET*. When a person in an actual environment moves to the standard environment and feels the same sensation as in the actual environment, the temperature of the standard environment is the SET* in the actual environment. Since SET* is a well-known technology, its description is omitted. SET* has a one-to-one correspondence with the thermal sensation shown in the target thermal sensation distribution. Therefore, SET* is also an indicator of thermal sensation.

[0081] Next, in step S130, the air conditioning ECU 40 calculates each SET* for each of the plurality of body parts 30 to 39 of the occupant 3. The ten SET* calculated here are current values, that is, current SET*, not target values.

[0082] The calculation method of the SET* value is well known, so detailed description is omitted. For example, the air conditioning ECU 40 calculates the current SET* for each of the body parts 30 to 39 of the occupant 3 based on various sensors. The various sensors include the thermal imager 9, the outside air temperature sensor 22, the inside air temperature sensor 23, the sunlight sensor 24, and a temperature sensor (not shown) that detects the temperature of the air blown out from the face outlet 42 and the foot outlet 43, and a humidity sensor (not shown). In addition, in order to calculate the current SET* of each of the body parts 30 to 39, the air conditioning ECU 40 may also use information on the operation content of various actuators. The various actuators include the fan actuator 131a, the air mixing actuator 16a, the blowing mode actuator 17a, the inside and outside air mode actuator 12a, the wind direction actuator 110a, etc. In addition, in the calculation of SET*, the amount of clothing and the metabolic rate of each body part of the occupant 3 may be fixedly set in advance or may be set by the occupant 3.

[0083] Next, in step S140, the air conditioning 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 difference is calculated by subtracting SET* from the target SET* for the same body part. As a result, the difference between the target SET* and SET* is calculated for each of the body parts 30 to 39.

[0084] Next, in step S150 , the air-conditioning ECU 40 selects the one having the largest absolute value from among the differences calculated in step S140 .

[0085] Next, in step S160, the air conditioning ECU 40 determines whether the absolute value of the difference selected in step S150 is within the permissible range. The permissible range is a range in which it is considered unnecessary to specifically reduce the absolute value of the difference. Therefore, the permissible range is a range above zero and below a reference value. If it is determined that the absolute value is within the permissible range, the air conditioning ECU 40 returns to step S110.

[0086] When step S110 is executed after step S160, if the occupant 3 operates the state setting unit 21 after the previous step S110, the air conditioning ECU 40 selects a mode corresponding to the operated switch among switches 211, 212, 213, and 214. If no operation is performed, the same mode as the mode selected in the previous step S110 is selected.

[0087] In step S160, if it is determined that the absolute value is not within the permissible range, the air conditioning ECU 40 proceeds to step S170. In step S170, the air conditioning ECU 40 selects the body part corresponding to the absolute value of the difference selected in step S150, that is, the body part with the largest absolute value of the difference between the target SET* and SET* as the target body part. Then, thermal stimulation is applied to the target body part alone. Applying thermal stimulation to the target body part alone means applying thermal stimulation mainly to the target body part so that the SET* of the target body part changes more than that of the other body parts among the body parts 30 to 39.

[0088] For example, the target body part is set to any 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 this case, the air conditioning ECU 40 controls the blow mode actuator 17a to set the blow outlet mode to the face mode. Furthermore, the air conditioning ECU 40 controls the wind direction actuator 110a to change the posture of the wind direction adjustment plate 110 so that the air blown out from the face blow outlet 42 mainly contacts the target body part.

[0089] Furthermore, the air conditioning ECU 40 mainly applies thermal stimulation to the target body part by adjusting the temperature of the air blown from the face blow-out port 42 to the target body part. For example, if the difference between the target SET* and SET* at the target body part is a positive value, the target blow-out temperature TAO is set to a temperature higher than the temperature in the vehicle interior detected by the indoor air temperature sensor 23 to increase SET. In addition, if the difference between the target SET* and SET* at the target body part is a negative value, the target blow-out temperature TAO is set to a temperature lower than the temperature in the vehicle interior detected by the indoor air temperature sensor 23 to decrease SET.

[0090] The posture data indicating how to set the posture of the wind direction adjustment plate 110 when 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 are the target body parts are recorded in advance in the air conditioning ECU 40. Specifically, it is recorded in the storage unit 402 such as the ROM or flash memory of the air conditioning ECU 40. The air conditioning ECU 40 determines the posture of the wind direction adjustment plate 110 using the posture data. In addition, the value of the posture data can also be corrected by the setting operation of the occupant 3. In addition, the value of the posture data can also be corrected according to the positions of the above-mentioned body parts 30 to 35 photographed by the thermal imager 9.

[0091] In addition, the air conditioning ECU 40 determines the air supply volume, air mixing ratio, and internal and external air ratio of the centrifugal fan 131 according to the target blowing temperature TAO and by a known method. Then, the fan actuator 131a, the air mixing actuator 16a, and the internal and external air mode actuator 12a are controlled to achieve the determined volume. The higher the target blowing temperature TAO, the state of the blown air is adjusted to apply a warm feeling that makes the occupants feel warmer. In addition, the lower the target blowing temperature TAO, the state of the blown air is adjusted to apply a warm feeling that makes the occupants feel cooler.

[0092] In addition, for example, when the target body part is any one of the waist 36, the left and right thighs 37, and the left and right calves 38, the air conditioning ECU 40 mainly applies thermal stimulation to the target body part by adjusting the output of the heater corresponding to the target body part.

[0093] Specifically, if the difference between the target SET* and SET* at the subject's body part is a positive value, the output of the corresponding heater is increased to increase SET*. On the other hand, if the difference between the target SET* and SET* at the subject's body part is a negative value, the output of the corresponding heater is reduced to reduce SET*. In addition, the heaters corresponding to the waist 36, the left and right thighs 37, and the left and right calf 38 are the waist heater 6, the thigh heater 7, and the calf heater 8, respectively.

[0094] At this time, the air conditioning ECU 40 may stop the centrifugal fan 131 by controlling the fan actuator 131 a so as to prevent the air from flowing toward the occupant 3 from the defroster outlet 41 , the face outlet 42 , and the foot outlet 43 .

[0095] In addition, for example, when the target body part is the left and right feet 39, the air conditioning ECU 40 controls the blow mode actuator 17a to set the blow outlet mode to the foot mode. Furthermore, the air conditioning ECU 40 mainly applies thermal stimulation to the left and right feet 39 by adjusting the temperature of the air blown from the foot blow outlet 43 to the left and right feet 39. The setting of the target blow temperature TAO when applying thermal stimulation is the same as when 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 are each the target body part.

[0096] After step S170, the air conditioning ECU 40 returns to step S110. When step S110 is executed following step S170, if the occupant 3 operates the state setting unit 21 after the previous step S110, the air conditioning ECU 40 selects a mode corresponding to the switch operated among switches 211, 212, 213, and 214. If no operation is performed, the same mode as the mode selected in the previous step S110 is selected.

[0097] The air conditioning ECU 40 applies thermal stimulation to the body part where the absolute value of the difference between the target SET* and SET* is the largest at each time through such processing, thereby reducing the absolute value of the difference. By repeating this operation, the body part where the absolute value of the difference between the target SET* and SET* is the largest changes from moment to moment. Therefore, the absolute value of the difference between the target SET* and SET* is reduced individually at each of the body parts 30 to 39. As a result, the absolute value of the difference between the target SET* and SET* is limited within the allowable range for any body part. That is, the similarity between the distribution of SET* in different body parts and the distribution of the target SET* in different body parts becomes high. As a result, the occupant 3 is guided to the mental state or physical state corresponding to the mode determined in step S110.

[0098] At this time, when the pattern determined in step S110 is different, the target thermal sensation distribution is different, and therefore the distribution of SET* of the body parts 30 to 39 achieved by the thermal stimulation in step S170 is also different.

[0099] In particular, no matter which two of the four modes are selected, the target values ​​of the thermal sensation of the head 30 are different from each other. Therefore, in the same in-vehicle environment, if the modes selected by step S110 are different, the thermal stimulation applied to the head 30 is different. The same is true for other body parts 31 to 39. That is, for a certain body part, the target value of the thermal sensation is set to be different in a certain mode or another mode. At this time, in the same in-vehicle environment, the thermal stimulation applied to the head 30 is different when the mode selected by step S110 is the certain mode and when it is the other mode.

[0100] In this way, the air conditioning ECU 40 can detect the thermal sensation of each body part of the occupant 3 according to different modes, and control the air conditioning unit 5, waist heater 6, thigh heater 7, and calf heater 8 in a manner targeting a different target thermal sensation for each mode and each body part.

[0101] As described above, the air conditioning ECU 40 selects a mode from the relaxation mode M1, the concentration mode M2, the sleep mode B1, and the vitality mode B2. Then, based on a target thermal distribution corresponding to the selected mode, the air conditioning unit 5, the waist heater 6, the thigh heater 7, and the calf heater 8 are controlled. Then, if the selected mode is different, the air conditioning ECU 40 applies different thermal stimulation to at least one body part. In this way, the distribution of the thermal sensation of the body parts 30 to 39 of the occupant 3 can be adjusted according to the mental state or physical state of the occupant 3 to be achieved.

[0102] Specifically, regardless of the selected mode, the air conditioning ECU 40 applies different thermal stimulation to at least the body part of the head 30. The brain state of the occupant 3 is strongly related to both mental and physical activities. Therefore, by applying different thermal stimulation to the head 30 when the selected mode is different, the distribution of the thermal sensation of multiple parts of the body of the occupant 3 can be adjusted in a manner more suitable for the mental state or physical state of the occupant 3 to be achieved.

[0103] Of course, if the selected mode is different, a thermal stimulation different from the thermal stimulation applied to at least the head 30 may be applied to any body part other than the head 30 .

[0104] In addition, the air conditioning ECU 40 applies thermal stimulation to a certain body part based on the current value of the thermal sensation for the certain body part so that the value of the thermal sensation for the certain body part approaches the target value of the thermal sensation for the certain body part. In this way, by making the value of the thermal sensation approach the target value based on the current value of the thermal sensation, the occupant 3 can be more effectively guided to the desired mental state or physical state of the occupant.

[0105] Furthermore, the air-conditioning ECU 40 corresponds to a selection unit by executing step S110 , and corresponds to a stimulation control unit by executing step S170 .

[0106] (Second Embodiment)

[0107] Next, the second embodiment will be described. Fig.11 As shown, this embodiment adds a display device 60 and a touch panel 61 to the structure of the first embodiment.

[0108] The display device 60 is a device that allows the vehicle's passengers to see images. The display device 60 may be mounted on the vehicle's dashboard or fender, or may be mounted on the steering wheel. Alternatively, the display device 60 may be a head-up display that uses the reflection of light from the vehicle's windshield to allow the passengers to see an image as a virtual image in front of the windshield.

[0109] Alternatively, the display device 60 may be a terminal carried by a vehicle occupant. In this case, the air-conditioning ECU 40 controls the display content of the display device 60 by wirelessly communicating with the display device 60 .

[0110] The touch panel 61 is an operating device that the passenger operates according to the content of the image displayed on the display device 60. When the passenger operates a predetermined part of the touch panel 61, the image displayed on the display device 60 changes in conjunction. The touch panel 61 is arranged to overlap with the display screen of the display device 60.

[0111] In addition, the air conditioning ECU 40 of the present embodiment is Figure 4 In the process of , the processing content of step S120 is changed. In step 120 following step S110, the air conditioning ECU 40 determines the target SET* for each of the plurality of body parts of the occupant 3 based on the pattern determined in step S110. Although this point is the same as the first embodiment, the details of step S120 are different.

[0112] Specifically, the air conditioning ECU 40 performs in step S120 Fig.12 The processing shown. Fig.12 In the process of step S110, first, the air conditioning ECU 40 determines the target value of the thermal sensation for each of the multiple body parts of the occupant 3 based on the mode determined in step S110. In the present embodiment, the multiple body parts of the occupant 3 that are the target are Figure 1 The back, buttocks, and inner thighs are included in addition to 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, left and right thighs 37, left and right calves 38, and left and right feet 39. That is, the number of body parts of the passenger 3 that are the subject is thirteen.

[0113] Specifically, first, according to the mode determined in step S110, the air conditioning ECU 40 Fig.13 , Fig.14 , Fig.15 , Fig.16The target thermal sense distribution as the distribution of the target value of the thermal sense is set as shown. The target thermal sense distribution of each mode is pre-stored as a standard thermal sense distribution in the storage unit 402 of the air conditioning ECU 40. The air conditioning ECU 40 sets the target thermal sense distribution by reading the target thermal sense distribution corresponding to the determined mode from the storage unit 402.

[0114] Figure 13 to Figure 16 The diamond marks in the figure represent the target thermal sensation distributions (i.e., default values) of the relaxation mode M1, the focus mode M2, the sleep mode B1, and the vitality mode B2 determined in step S122. Figure 13 to Figure 16 The display format is Figure 6 to Figure 9 The target values ​​of the warmth sensation of 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, left and right thighs 37, left and right calves 38, and left and right feet 39 in each mode M1, M2, B1, and B2 are the same as those in the first embodiment. The back, buttocks, and inner thighs are different from the other body parts 31 to 39 and are body parts located on the contact surface with the driver's seat 2.

[0115] Next, in step S124, the air-conditioning ECU 40 performs season determination, that is, determines whether the current season is summer, winter, or an intermediate season that is neither summer nor winter.

[0116] For example, the season determination may be performed based on the season input by the occupant 3 using an input device (not shown). Alternatively, the air conditioning ECU 40 may read calendar data specifying whether each date belongs to summer, winter, or mid-term from the storage unit 402, and apply the current date to the read calendar data to determine the current season. Alternatively, the air conditioning ECU 40 may determine the current season based on information from the outside air temperature sensor 22, using, for example, a map of correspondence between outside air temperature and season stored in the storage unit 402.

[0117] Next, in step S126, the air conditioning 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 the middle period, no correction is performed.

[0118] In addition, if the season determined by step S124 is summer, then the Figure 13 to Figure 16 The target thermal sensation distribution is the result of changing the default value of the diamond mark in the figure corresponding to the mode determined in step S110 as shown in the triangle mark in the figure.

[0119] For example, Fig.13As shown, when the relaxation mode is determined in step S110, the target values ​​of the thermal sensation of the back, buttocks, and inner thighs are corrected from "warm" to "neutral" of two levels of coolness relative to the default values ​​of the diamond marks. At this time, the target values ​​of the thermal sensation of the body parts other than the back, buttocks, and inner thighs are not corrected and are maintained.

[0120] In addition, for example, Fig.15 As shown, when the sleep mode is determined by step S110, the target value of the thermal sensation of the back, buttocks, and inner thighs is corrected from "warm" to "slightly warm", which is one level cooler, relative to the default value of the diamond mark.

[0121] The reason for doing so is that, relative to the middle period, when sitting in the summer, the contact portion pressed against the driver's seat 2 is prone to sweating. In order to prevent the thermal comfort from being greatly impaired due to sweating, the target value of the thermal sensation of the back, buttocks, and inner thigh is set to be cool relative to the middle period.

[0122] Since sweating causes stuffiness, it has a great impact on people's comfort. Therefore, in the above-mentioned contact part, in the mode setting that is closely related to the comfort for the purpose of relaxation, concentration, and nap, the warm feeling without sweating is set as the upper limit. In addition, in the above-mentioned contact part, in the case of activation such as being energetic, the activation is given priority, and a warmer upper limit is set that allows sweating and can ensure the minimum comfort.

[0123] In addition, if Fig.14 , Fig.16 As shown, when the focus mode or vitality mode is set in step S110, the target values ​​of the warmth sensation of the back, buttocks, and inner thighs may not be corrected even if the season determined in step S124 is summer. Alternatively, the target values ​​of the warmth sensation may be corrected in the same manner as in the relaxation mode or the sleep mode.

[0124] In addition, for example, when the season determined by step S124 is summer and the focus mode is determined by step S110, Fig.14 The target value of the thermal sensation of the head is corrected from the default value of the diamond mark. That is, it is corrected from the default value of "cool" to "slightly cool", which is one level cooler. At this time, the target value of the thermal sensation of the body parts other than the head is not corrected but maintained. This is because during driving, the head is subjected to radiant heat from the sunlight passing through the window, which has a great influence on the comfort of the occupant 3 due to heat generation, etc. In this way, the target value of the thermal sensation of the head can be changed to compensate for the influence of sunlight on the comfort.

[0125] In addition, for example, when the season determined by step S124 is summer and the sleep mode is determined by step S110, Fig.15As shown, the target values ​​of the sense of warmth for multiple body parts 31 to 39 are corrected to a value that is one level cooler relative to the default values ​​marked with diamonds. At this time, the target value of the sense of warmth for the body part 30 of the head is not corrected but maintained. This is done because in the sleeping mode, the occupant 3 is likely to tilt the backrest of the driver's seat 2 significantly and take a supine position. Compared with the driving position, in such a position, the head is less likely to be exposed to sunlight. Accordingly, body parts other than the head are exposed to the radiant heat of the sunlight that passes through the window, which has a greater impact on the comfort of the occupant 3. In this way, the target values ​​of the sense of warmth for body parts other than the head can be changed to compensate for the impact of sunlight on comfort.

[0126] For example, even if the season determined in step S124 is summer, if the active mode is determined in step S110 , the target value of the thermal sensation of any body part is not corrected and is maintained.

[0127] This is done to prevent excessive sweating that causes the person to sweat and chill. In the summer active mode, the body of the occupant 3 is active and prone to sweating. At this time, further correction to the warm side will cause sweating to exceed the allowable level. If sweating and chilling occur, the comfort of the occupant may be impaired.

[0128] In addition, if the season determined by step S124 is winter, then the Figure 13 to Figure 16 The target thermal sensation distribution is the result of changing the default values ​​of the diamond marks in the figure corresponding to the mode determined in step S110 as shown in the circle marks in the figure.

[0129] For example, Fig.13 , 14 As shown, when the relaxation mode or the focus mode is determined by step S110, the target values ​​of the warmth sensation of the left and right hands 35 and the left and right feet 39 as the extremities of the human body are corrected to a value of one level warmer relative to the default value of the diamond mark.

[0130] The reason why the target value of the thermal sensation of the human extremities is corrected in this way is that in winter, the blood flow in the extremities is reduced in order to maintain the body temperature of the trunk, so the extremities become cold. By heating the periphery of the extremities as the center, the discomfort caused by the coldness of the extremities can be improved. In this way, it is possible to ensure thermal comfort and make a thermal distribution suitable for the purpose.

[0131] In addition, if Fig.15 , Fig.16As shown, when the sleep mode is set in step S110, even if the season determined in step S124 is winter, the target values ​​of the thermal sensation of the left and right hands 35 and the left and right feet 39 may not be corrected. Alternatively, the target values ​​of the thermal sensation may be corrected in the same manner as in the relaxation mode and the sleep mode.

[0132] In addition, since it is not easy to sweat in winter, when the active mode is set in step S110, the target value of the thermal sensation of the body parts that are set to be cooler than "warm" by default is corrected to a value one level warmer than the default value. The body parts that are set to be cooler than "warm" by default are parts other than the contact parts (i.e., the back, buttocks, and inner thighs) where the thermal sensation is not excessive.

[0133] In this way, information on how to correct the target value of thermal sensation relative to the default value in summer and winter is pre-recorded in the storage unit 402 as a season correspondence table for each mode and each body part. The air conditioning ECU 40 reads the season correspondence table from the storage unit 402 and uses it to correct the target thermal sensation distribution corresponding to the season determined by the season determination.

[0134] In step S128 following step S126, the air conditioning ECU 40 corrects the target thermal sensation distribution based on the linkage data. The linkage data is data indicating the correction amount of the target value of the thermal sensation in each of the plurality of body parts, and is described later. Fig.17 In the process of , the linkage data is set based on the correction operation of the occupant 3 and recorded in the storage unit 402 of the air conditioning ECU 40. Fig.17 The initial value of the linkage data before the processing setting of may be zero for all body parts or may be a value other than zero. The linkage data is data that can specify the value after the change of the target thermal sensation distribution of each mode.

[0135] For example, the linkage data indicates that the target value of the thermal sensation of the head 30 is corrected by one level to be cooler while the target values ​​of the thermal sensation of other parts of the body are maintained. In this case, the air conditioning ECU 40 corrects the target value of the thermal sensation of the head 30 by one level to be cooler without correcting the target values ​​of the thermal sensation of other parts of the body, based on the target thermal sensation distribution determined in step S122 and corrected as needed in step S126.

[0136] Next, the air conditioning ECU 40 proceeds to step S129. Then, using Fig.10The correspondence table shown in FIG. 1 specifies SET* for multiple body parts according to the target values ​​of the thermal sensation of multiple body parts included in the target thermal sensation distribution determined in step S122 and corrected as needed in S126 and S128. Then, the specified SET* is used as the target SET*. In other words, the corresponding thirteen target SET* are respectively specified according to the thirteen target values ​​of thermal sensation. Here, the correspondence table used by the air conditioning ECU 40 is pre-stored in the storage unit 40 of the air conditioning ECU 40. After step S129, Fig.12 After the processing is completed, the air-conditioning ECU 40 proceeds to step S130.

[0137] In addition, the air conditioning ECU 40 Figure 4 In addition to processing, through multitasking, Figure 4 Execute the processing at the same time Fig.17 The processing shown. Fig.17 In the process, the air-conditioning ECU 40 first displays the target thermal sensation distribution, the current thermal sensation distribution, etc. on the display screen of the display device 60 in step S205.

[0138] Specifically, if Fig.18 As shown, the air conditioning ECU 40 displays a mode display image 501 , a human image 502 , a batch minus button 503 a , a batch plus button 503 b , a batch slide bar 503 c , and a batch slider 503 d on the display screen of the display device 60 .

[0139] In addition, if Fig.18 As shown, the air conditioning ECU 40 displays a plurality of body part controls on the display screen, each of which includes a minus button 504a for a different body part, a plus button 504b for a different body part, a slide bar 504c for a different body part, a slider 504d for a different body part, and a status indicator 504e.

[0140] Mode display image 501 is a display showing the four modes. Figure 4 The image of the currently selected mode is processed. Fig.18 In the example shown in FIG. 1 , the selection of the relaxation mode is indicated by inverting the name of the relaxation mode.

[0141] The human body image 502 is an image used to indicate which body parts of the occupant 3 the plurality of body part controls respectively correspond to. For this purpose, the human body image 502 has a shape imitating a human body.

[0142] The batch minus button 503a and the batch plus button 503b are images that the passenger 3 can select using the touch panel 61. The batch slider 503c is a bar-shaped image extending from the batch minus button 503a toward the batch plus button 503b.

[0143] The batch slider 503d is an image arranged to overlap the batch slider bar 503c. The batch slider 503d can move along the extending direction of the batch slider bar 503c as the passenger 3 operates the batch minus button 503a or the batch plus button 503b.

[0144] The different part minus button 504a and the different part plus button 504b are images that the occupant 3 can select using the touch panel 61. The different part slide bar 504c is a bar-shaped image extending from the different part minus button 504a belonging to the same body part control toward the different part plus button 504b.

[0145] The different part slider 504d is an image overlapped with the different part slider bar 504c belonging to the same body part control. The different part slider 504d can move along the extension direction of the different part slider bar 504c as the passenger 3 operates the different part minus button 504a and the different part plus button 504b belonging to the same body part control.

[0146] The status indicator 504e is an image which is arranged to overlap with the different body part slider 504c belonging to the same body part control and whose position can be changed along the extending direction of the different body part slider 504c according to the current SET* calculated in step S130.

[0147] A plurality of body part controls are arranged side by side in the vertical direction of the human body image 502 beside the human body image 502. Such an arrangement indicates the correspondence between the plurality of body part controls and the body parts to which the body part controls are applied.

[0148] exist Fig.18 In the example of the display screen of , six body part controls are shown, and these six body part controls are based on six representative body parts among the thirteen body parts for which the target values ​​of the target thermal sensation are set in this embodiment. For example, the body part controls from the top layer to the bottom layer can be based on the head, chest, left and right hands, waist, left and right thighs, and left and right feet, respectively. In addition, the display screen can also include thirteen body part controls that are based on the thirteen body parts, respectively.

[0149] In step S205 , the air-conditioning ECU 40 controls the display positions of the batch slider 503 d , the respective different-part sliders 504 d , and the respective status indicators 504 e as follows.

[0150] The air conditioning 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 a correction value regarding the thermal sensation (for example, a value of one level warmer). Specifically, the air conditioning ECU 40 determines the position of the batch slider 503d in such a way that the larger the correction value of the thermal sensation contained 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 is determined to be at a position equidistant from the batch minus button 503a and the batch plus button 503b. As described below, the batch correction data is Fig.17 In step S230, it is updated as needed.

[0151] In addition, the air conditioning ECU 40 determines the positions of the plurality of different body part sliders 504 d along the extending direction of the different body part slide bar 504 c belonging to the same body part control as follows.

[0152] First, the air conditioning ECU 40 communicates with Fig.12 The same processing as steps S122, S124, S126, and S128 is used to determine the target value of the warmth sensation of each body part, and then to make corrections as needed. Then, the position of the corresponding different-part slider 504d is determined based on the target value of the warmth sensation of each body part obtained as a result. At this time, the position of the different-part slider 504d is determined so that the higher the target value of the warmth sensation, the closer it is to the different-part plus button 504b for the same body part. As described above, the positions of the plurality of different-part sliders 504d are determined along the extension direction of the different-part slider bar 504c belonging to the same body part control.

[0153] In addition, the air conditioning ECU 40 is based on Figure 4 The latest current SET* calculated in step S130 determines the position of the status indicator 504e along the extension direction of the different body part slider 504c belonging to the same body part control.

[0154] Specifically, for each body part as the target different part slider 504d, according to the latest current SET* of the body part, use Fig.10 The correspondence table shown specifies the current value of the thermal sensation. Then, the position of the status indicator 504e is determined so that the higher the value of the specified thermal sensation, the closer it is to the different part plus button 504b targeting the body part.

[0155] In step S215 following step S205, the air conditioning ECU 40 determines whether the target value of the thermal sensation of the touch panel 61 has been changed within a predetermined period. The predetermined period is, for example, the period from the execution opportunity of the previous step S215 to the present. Fig.17 This is the first time that step S215 is executed since the start of the process. Fig.17 The period from the start of the processing to the present is the prescribed period.

[0156] The operation of changing the target value of the thermal sensation is an operation of selecting one of the batch minus button 503 a , the batch plus button 503 b , the plurality of different-part minus buttons 504 a , and the plurality of different-part plus buttons 504 b using the touch panel 61 .

[0157] If the target value of the thermal sensation of the touch panel 61 has not been changed within the predetermined period, the process returns to step S205. If the target value of the thermal sensation of the touch panel 61 has been changed within the predetermined period, the process proceeds to step S218.

[0158] In step S218, it is determined whether the changed layer determined in step S215 is a batch operation. A batch operation is an operation of any one of the batch minus button 503a and the batch plus button 503b. An operation that is not a batch operation is an operation of a different part of any one of the different part minus button 504a and the different part plus button 504b. If it is determined that it is not a batch operation, the process proceeds to step S220, and if it is determined that it is a batch operation, the process proceeds to step S225.

[0159] In step S220, according to the content of the operation of different parts, change Fig.12 The value of the linkage data described in step S128 of the processing is overwritten and recorded in the storage unit 402, and the process returns to step S205. Fig.12 The processing step S128 and Fig.17 The value of the linkage data used in step S205 of the processing changes.

[0160] Specifically, when the different part minus button 504a is selected and it is determined in step S215 that a change operation has been performed, the linkage data is updated. That is, only the correction amount of the target value of the thermal sensation of the body part corresponding to the different part minus button 504a in the linkage data is changed by one level in the direction of cooling and the record is overwritten.

[0161] In addition, when it is determined in step S215 that a change operation has been made due to the selection of the different part plus button 504b, the linkage data is updated. That is, only the correction amount of the target value of the thermal sensation of the body part corresponding to the different part plus button 504b in the linkage data is changed by one level in the direction of warming and the record is overwritten.

[0162] The changed linkage data is used in the subsequent execution as described above. Fig.12 In addition, the linkage data thus changed is used in the subsequent execution as described above. Fig.17 The processing step S205.

[0163] That is, the correction amount to the target value of thermal sensation according to the operation of the occupant 3 is stored in the storage unit 402 in an updateable manner as a learning value, and is used for thermal sensation control and display. Moreover, the linkage data is common to any of the four modes.

[0164] In step S225, the value of the linkage data is changed according to the content of the batch operation, and the data is overwritten and recorded in the storage unit 402, and the process proceeds to step S230. Fig.12 The processing step S128 and Fig.17 The value of the linkage data used in step S205 of the processing changes.

[0165] Specifically, when the batch minus button 503a is selected and it is determined in step S215 that a change operation has been performed, the correction amount of the target value of the thermal sensation of all body parts in the linkage data is changed by one level in the direction of cooling and the record is overwritten. In addition, when the batch plus button 503b is selected and it is determined in step S215 that a change operation has been performed, the correction amount of the target value of the thermal sensation of all body parts in the linkage data is changed by one level in the direction of warming and the record is overwritten.

[0166] In addition, in these specific examples, the air conditioning ECU 40 may not change the correction amount of the target value of the thermal sensation of all parts of the body in the linkage data, but only change the correction amount of the target value of the thermal sensation of all parts of the body displayed on the display screen of the display device 60 in step S205 and overwrite the record.

[0167] The changed linkage data is used in the subsequent execution as described above. Fig.12 In addition, the linkage data thus changed is used in the subsequent execution as described above. Fig.17 The processing step S205.

[0168] That is, the correction amount to the target value of thermal sensation according to the operation of the occupant 3 is stored in the storage unit 402 in an updateable manner as a learning value, and is used for thermal sensation control and display. Moreover, the linkage data is common to any of the four modes.

[0169] In step S230 following step S225, the air conditioning 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 the next step S205 is changed.

[0170] Specifically, when the batch minus button 503a is selected and it is determined in step S215 that a change operation has been performed, the correction value included in the batch correction data is changed by one level in the direction of cooling and the record is overwritten. In addition, when the batch plus button 503b is selected and it is determined in step S215 that a change operation has been performed, the correction value included in the batch correction data is changed by one level in the direction of warming and the record is overwritten.

[0171] The batch correction data thus changed is used in the subsequent execution as described above. Fig.17 In other words, the batch correction amount for the target value of the thermal sensation corresponding to the operation of the occupant 3 is stored in the storage unit 402 in an updateable manner as a learning value, and is used for displaying the thermal sensation. Moreover, the batch correction data is common to any of the four modes.

[0172] Here, an example of a case where the correction amount of the target value of the sense of warmth is changed only for a specified body part is described. For example, when the correction amount of the target value of the sense of warmth in all body parts in the linkage data is zero, the occupant 3 uses the touch panel 61 to select the different part minus button 504a in the top body part control on the display screen. The different part minus button 504a is for the head 30. In addition, the relaxation mode M1 is selected at this time. In this example, the relaxation mode M1 corresponds to the first mode.

[0173] In this case, the air conditioning ECU 40 is Fig.17 Step S215 determines that there is a change operation, and the process proceeds from step 218 to step S220, where the correction amount of only the head 30 in the linkage data is changed by one level in the direction of cooling and is overwritten and recorded in the storage unit 402. Thus, only the correction amount of the head 30 in the linkage data is updated.

[0174] Then, in the following step S205, as Fig.19As shown in FIG. 1 , based on the updated correction amount of only the head 30, the different part slider 504d of the body part control belonging to the head 30 is moved one level in the direction of cooling in the display screen of the display device 60. In this way, the correction amount of the target value of the thermal sensation of different parts of the occupant 3 is reflected in the display. Fig.19 The dotted line 92 extending from the different-position slider 504 d is a line virtually indicated for indicating the difference between the target value before updating and the target value after updating, and is not actually displayed on the display screen of the display device 60 .

[0175] In addition, Fig.12 In step S128, the air conditioning 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 linkage data, and then Figure 4 In steps S130 to S170, thermal stimulation control is performed reflecting the updated correction amount of the head 30. Such operation is the same when the correction amount of a body part other than the head 30 is updated, except that the target body part is different.

[0176] In addition, 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 conditioning ECU 40 selects a mode different from that in step S110. Thus, for example, the selected mode is changed from the relaxation mode M1 to the sleep mode B1. In this example, the sleep mode B1 corresponds to the second mode.

[0177] In this case, the linkage data is also universally applicable to all modes. Fig. 20 As shown, the air conditioning ECU 40 is Fig.17 In step S205, even in the changed sleep mode B1, the correction amount of the head 30 is displayed according to the linkage data set to the first level of cooling. That is, the different parts slider 504d is displayed to indicate that only the target value of the thermal sensation of the head 30 is corrected to the target thermal sensation distribution of the first level of cooling relative to the standard thermal sensation distribution of the sleep mode B1. Fig. 20 The dotted line 91 extending from the different-part slider 504 d is a line virtually indicated for indicating the difference between the target value and the corrected target value in the standard thermal sensation distribution, and is not actually displayed on the display screen of the display device 60 .

[0178] Next, an example of a case where the correction amount of the target value of the thermal sensation is changed in batches for multiple body parts is described. For example, when the correction amount of the target value of the thermal sensation in all body parts in the linkage data is zero, the occupant 3 selects the batch minus button 503a in the display screen using the touch panel 61. At this time, the relaxation mode M1 is selected. In this example, the relaxation mode M1 corresponds to the first mode.

[0179] In this case, the air conditioning ECU 40 is Fig.17 In step S215, it is determined that there is a change operation, and the process proceeds from step S218 to step S225. Then, the correction amount of all body parts in the linkage data, or only the correction amount of all body parts displayed on the display screen, is changed by one level in the direction of cooling and recorded in the storage unit 402. Thus, the correction amount of each body part in the linkage data is updated. Then, in step S230, the air conditioning ECU 40 changes the value of the correction value in the batch correction data to one level cooler than the current one, and records it in the storage unit 402.

[0180] Then, in the following step S205, as Fig.21 As shown, based on the correction amount of each body part updated in this way, the different part sliders 504d belonging to all the displayed body part controls are moved one level in the direction of cooling. At the same time, based on the batch correction data, the position of the batch slider 503d is moved one level further in the direction of cooling than before. At this time, it is also possible to Fig.21 As shown, the display screen is fixedly displayed. Fig.17 At the start of the process the batch slider 503d is positioned at the default position indicator 503e.

[0181] In this way, the correction amount of the target value of the thermal sensation of the occupant 3 in batches covering a plurality of parts is reflected on the display. Fig.21 The dotted line 90 in FIG. 8 is a line virtually indicated for indicating the difference between the target value before updating and the target value after updating, and is not actually displayed on the display screen of the display device 60 .

[0182] In addition, Fig.12 In step S128, the air conditioning ECU 40 corrects the target value of the thermal sensation of each body part based on the updated linkage data, and then Figure 4 In steps S130 to S170, thermal stimulation control is performed reflecting the updated correction amount for each body part.

[0183] In addition, 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 conditioning ECU 40 selects a mode different from the previous one in step S110. Thus, for example, the selected mode is changed from the relaxation mode M1 to the sleep mode B1. In this example, the sleep mode B1 corresponds to the second mode.

[0184] In this case, the linkage data is also universally applicable to all modes. Fig. 22 As shown, the air conditioning ECU 40 is Fig.17In step S205, even in the changed sleep mode B1, the correction amount of each body part is displayed according to the linkage data set to the first level of cooling. That is, the different body part sliders 504d are displayed to indicate that the target value of the thermal sensation of each body part is corrected to the target thermal sensation distribution of the first level of cooling relative to the standard thermal sensation distribution of the sleep mode B1. In addition, Fig. 22 The dotted line 90 in FIG. 1 is a line virtually indicated for indicating the difference between the target value and the corrected target value in the standard thermal sensation distribution, and is not actually displayed on the display screen of the display device 60 .

[0185] The inventors of the present application have studied a so-called learning technique for continuously reflecting the occupant's change operation in the subsequent target thermal sensation distribution adjustment in order to finely control the thermal sensation stimulation according to each occupant's thermal sensation preference in a thermal sensation adjustment device.

[0186] In the thermal sensation control device of the first embodiment, when the previous learning technology is simply applied, the target value of the thermal sensation of a specified body part (e.g., the head) is learned for a certain purpose (e.g., wanting to calm the mind). However, for other purposes (e.g., wanting to activate the body), the learning is not reflected in the target value of the thermal sensation of the body part. According to the research of the inventors of the present application, when the occupant changes the thermal stimulation of the body part for a certain purpose, there is a tendency to like to change the thermal stimulation of the body part in the same way for other purposes. Therefore, simply citing the previous learning technology cannot effectively learn the change of the target thermal sensation distribution.

[0187] Therefore, in order to effectively reflect the thermal sensation preference of the occupant in each thermal sensation distribution, linkage data is introduced in the present embodiment.

[0188] Specifically, when the first mode is selected, the storage unit stores linkage data according to the change operation when there is a change operation on the target thermal sensation distribution of the first mode. Then, when the first mode is selected, the change unit changes the target thermal sensation distribution of the first mode based on the linkage data. And, when the second mode is selected, the change unit changes the target thermal sensation distribution of the second mode in linkage with the change operation on the target thermal sensation distribution of the first mode based on the linkage data. In this way, the change of the target thermal sensation distribution by the occupant can be effectively learned.

[0189] In addition, when a change operation of selecting a designated body part is performed as a change operation by the occupant 3, the air conditioning ECU 40 changes the target value of the thermal sensation of the body part based on the change operation. The change operation of selecting a designated body part corresponds to the operation of the different part minus button 504a and the different part plus button 504b. In this way, detailed learning of different body parts can be performed.

[0190] In addition, when the occupant 3 performs a change operation without selecting a designated body part as a change operation, the air conditioning ECU 40 changes the target values ​​of the thermal sensation of two or more body parts based on the change operation. The change operation without selecting a designated body part corresponds to the operation of the batch minus button 503a and the batch plus button 503b. By doing so, compared with the fine adjustment of different body parts, the complexity is reduced and simple adjustment is achieved.

[0191] The air-conditioning ECU 40 also changes the target thermal sensation distribution of the selected mode in accordance with the determined season. This allows for appropriate adjustment of the thermal sensation stimulation in accordance with seasonal changes.

[0192] In addition, in the present embodiment, the air conditioning ECU 40 executes Fig.12 By executing step S128, it functions as a changing unit, by executing step S124, it functions as a season determining unit, and by executing step S126, it functions as a season corresponding unit.

[0193] In addition, in this embodiment, the Peltier element provided in the center of the vertical direction and the center of the horizontal direction of the chair back, which heats when the back is present and cools at other times, can also be a device for applying thermal stimulation to the back. In addition, the Peltier element provided at the rear side compared to the center of the front-back direction of the seat cushion, which heats when the buttocks are present and cools at other times, can also be a device for applying thermal stimulation to the buttocks. In addition, the Peltier element provided at the front side compared to the center of the front-back direction of the seat cushion, which heats when the inner thigh is present and cools at other times, can also be a device for applying thermal stimulation to the inner thigh.

[0194] (Third Embodiment)

[0195] Next, the third embodiment will be described. Compared with the second embodiment, the air conditioning ECU 40 of the present embodiment executes Fig.23 Instead of Fig.17 The rest is the same as the second embodiment.

[0196] exist Fig.17 Processing and Fig.23In the processing, the same step number is marked on the steps with the same processing content. Fig.23 The processing in Fig.17 Step S210 is added to the processing of . Hereinafter, the difference from the second embodiment will be mainly described, and the description of the same parts as the second embodiment will be omitted.

[0197] exist Fig.23 In the process, the air conditioning ECU 40 executes step 210 following step S205, and then executes step S215 following step S210. In step S210, the air conditioning ECU 40 calculates the target reaching time for the body part with each body part control as the object. The target reaching time is a predicted value of the time until the actual warmth sensation of the body part as the object reaches the target value of the warmth sensation. The target reaching time is calculated based on a predetermined calculation formula pre-stored in the storage unit 402.

[0198] In this calculation formula, the time required to reach each target is defined as follows: the greater the difference between the current value of the thermal sensation of the target body part and the target value, the greater the time required to reach the target. In addition, in this calculation formula, the time required to reach each target is defined as follows: if the difference between the current value of the thermal sensation of the target body part and the target value is zero, the time required to reach the target is zero. In addition, in this calculation formula, the time required to reach each target is defined as follows: the greater the output value (e.g., power consumption) of the device in the thermal stimulation section that applies thermal stimulation to the target part, the shorter the time required to reach the target.

[0199] In addition, in the same step S210, the air conditioning ECU 40 displays information corresponding to the calculated required time to reach each target on the display screen of the display device 60. Specifically, Fig.24 As shown, information corresponding to the time required to reach a target with respect to a certain body part as the target is displayed near the body part control with respect to the body part as the target.

[0200] At this time, the air conditioning ECU 40 switches the type of information corresponding to the target arrival required time when the former is smaller than the latter or when the former is larger than the latter based on the comparison between the target arrival required time and a predetermined threshold.

[0201] Here, the prescribed threshold value may be a time determined to be fixed in advance (e.g., one hour). Alternatively, the prescribed threshold value may be the time taken for the vehicle 1 to reach the destination. The time taken 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 a planned route from the departure point of the vehicle 1 to the destination, and guides the vehicle 1 along the planned route. While the vehicle 1 is moving forward, the navigation device calculates the time taken to reach the destination based on the travel distance of each section in the planned route from the current position of the vehicle 1 to the destination and the predicted vehicle speed of each section. The navigation device then outputs the calculated time taken to reach the destination to the air conditioning ECU 40.

[0202] When the target time is less than a predetermined threshold, the air conditioning ECU 40 displays a number indicating the target time on the display screen of the display device 60. The occupant 3 can thereby understand that the thermal sensation adjustment device is operating even though the target value of thermal sensation deviates from the current value.

[0203] When the time required to reach the target is longer than a predetermined threshold, the air conditioning ECU 40 does not display the numerals indicating the time required to reach the target on the display screen, but displays an image such as a horizontal line indicating that the target thermal sensation is reaching slowly.

[0204] When the time required to reach the target is the same as the predetermined threshold, the air conditioning ECU 40 may display a number indicating the time required to reach the target on the display screen, or may display an image such as a horizontal line indicating that the target thermal sensation is reaching the target slowly.

[0205] In addition, when the time required to reach the target changes from a value greater than zero to zero, the air conditioner ECU 40 may erase the information corresponding to the time required to reach the target from the display screen, or may display a number of zero as the time required to reach the target on the display screen. In the former, the display method of the time required to reach the target changes. In addition, when the time required to reach the target changes from a value greater than zero to zero, the air conditioner ECU 40 displays the time required to reach the target itself as information corresponding to the time required to reach the target, and therefore may also display an icon of a prescribed pattern indicating the target reaching. By doing so, it can be understood that a warm feeling can be achieved as the target value.

[0206] The information displayed corresponding to the time required to reach the target changes with the passage of time. Fig.24 If time passes without changing the mode, the display will be displayed as shown. Fig.25As shown, the current indicator 504e is close to the different part slider 504d. As a result, the occupant 3 can recognize that the thermal sensation is close to the target value not only physically, but also visually from the display screen.

[0207] In addition, the air conditioning ECU 40 displays the current value and target value of the thermal sensation of the occupant 3 for each body part, and changes the display mode when the current value reaches the target value and before reaching it. Furthermore, the air conditioning ECU 40 displays the time until the current value reaches the target value for each body part. By doing so, the difference between the body parts where the target thermal sensation distribution has been achieved and the body parts where it has not been achieved can be confirmed not only physically but also visually.

[0208] In addition, in the present embodiment, the air conditioning ECU 40 executes Fig.12 The air conditioning ECU 40 functions as a change unit by executing step S128, functions as a season determination unit by executing step S124, and functions as a season corresponding unit by executing step S126. Fig.23 Steps S205 and S210 function as a display control unit.

[0209] (Other embodiments)

[0210] In addition, the present invention is not limited to the above-mentioned embodiments, and can be appropriately changed. In addition, the above-mentioned multiple embodiments are not unrelated to each other, and can be appropriately combined except for the case where it is obviously impossible to combine. In addition, in the above-mentioned embodiments, the elements constituting the embodiments are not necessary except for the case where it is particularly clearly indicated that it is necessary and the case where it is considered to be obviously necessary in principle. In addition, in the above-mentioned embodiments, when the number, value, quantity, range and other numerical values ​​of the structural elements of the embodiments are mentioned, except for the case where it is particularly clearly indicated that it is necessary and the case where it is obviously limited to the specified number in principle, it is not limited to the specified number. In particular, when multiple values ​​are illustrated for a certain amount, except for the case where it is particularly noted and the case where it is obviously impossible in principle, the value between these multiple values ​​can also be adopted. In addition, in the above-mentioned embodiments, when the shape, positional relationship, etc. of the structural elements, etc. are mentioned, except for the case where it is particularly clearly indicated and the case where it is limited to the specified shape, positional relationship, etc. in principle, it is not limited to the shape, positional relationship, etc. In addition, in the above-mentioned embodiment, when it is recorded that the external environment information of the vehicle 1 (for example, the humidity outside the vehicle) is obtained from a sensor, the sensor can be abolished and the external environment information can be received from a server or cloud outside the vehicle 1. Alternatively, the sensor can be abolished, and related information related to the external environment information can be obtained from a server or cloud outside the vehicle 1, and the external environment information can be inferred from the obtained related information. In addition, the present invention also allows for the following modifications and modifications of equal scope for the above-mentioned embodiment. In addition, the following modifications can be independently selected to be applied or not applied to the above-mentioned embodiment. That is, any combination of the following modifications except for obviously contradictory combinations can be applied to the above-mentioned embodiment.

[0211] In addition, the air conditioning ECU40 and its methods described in the present invention can be implemented by a special-purpose computer, which is provided by constituting a programmed processor and a memory, and the processor is programmed to perform one or more functions embodied by a computer program. Alternatively, the air conditioning ECU40 and its methods described in the present invention can also be implemented by a special-purpose computer, which is provided by constituting a processor composed of one or more special-purpose hardware logic circuits. Alternatively, the air conditioning ECU40 and its methods described in the present invention can also be implemented by one or more special-purpose computers, which are composed of a processor and a memory programmed to perform one or more functions and a processor composed of one or more hardware logic circuits. In addition, the computer program can also be stored in a computer-readable non-transient physical storage medium as an instruction executed by a computer.

[0212] (Variant 1)

[0213] In the above-mentioned embodiments, the thermal stimulation of the body parts 30 to 39 of the occupant 3 seated in the driver's seat 2 by the thermal stimulation portion is adjusted based on the difference between the current value of the thermal sensation distribution of the body parts 30 to 39 of the occupant 3 seated in the driver's seat 2 and the target value. In other words, the thermal sensation distribution is adjusted for the occupant 3 seated in the driver's seat 2.

[0214] However, the object of adjustment of the thermal sensation distribution may also be the passenger seated in the front passenger seat or the passenger seated in the back seat. In addition, the object of adjustment of the thermal sensation distribution may not only be one passenger, but also multiple passengers seated in different seats. In these cases, the configuration, structure, and operation of the thermal stimulation part and various sensors are changed according to the seat position of the passenger of the adjustment object.

[0215] (Variant 2)

[0216] In the above-mentioned embodiments, the air conditioning unit 5 is exemplified as a device for applying thermal stimulation to 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 feet 39. In addition, the waist heater 6, the thigh heater 7, and the calf heater 8 are exemplified as devices for applying thermal stimulation to the waist 36, the left and right thighs 37, and the left and right calf 38. However, the devices for applying thermal stimulation to the body parts 30 to 39 are not limited to these components.

[0217] For example, the waist heater 6, thigh heater 7, and calf heater 8 may be replaced by a blower having a function of cooling the target body part. In addition, for example, the waist heater 6, thigh heater 7, and calf heater 8 may be replaced by a device including a Peltier element that can heat the target body part and cool the target body part. In addition, the air conditioning unit 5 may be used to apply thermal stimulation to the waist 36, the left and right thighs 37, and the left and right calves 38 separately.

[0218] In addition, when the outside air temperature is higher than the reference temperature, the energy efficiency of the air conditioning unit 5 using the steam refrigeration cycle is higher than that of the electric heater. When the outside air temperature is lower than the reference temperature, the relationship is reversed. Therefore, when the outside air temperature is higher than the reference temperature (e.g., -2°C), the air conditioning unit 5 may apply thermal stimulation to the waist 36, the left and right thighs 37, and the left and right calves 38 separately, and when the outside air temperature is lower than the reference temperature, the electric heater may apply thermal stimulation separately.

[0219] In addition, in each embodiment, ten devices can be provided for applying thermal stimulation to ten parts of 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, left and right thighs 37, left and right calves 38, and left and right feet 39 separately.

[0220] In this case, the head outlet provided in the headrest and blowing air mainly to the head 30 may be a device for applying thermal stimulation to the head 30. In addition, the neck outlet provided in the upper end of the seat back and blowing air mainly to the neck 31 may be a device for applying thermal stimulation to the neck 31. In addition, the chest outlet provided in the baffle 4 and blowing air mainly to the chest 32 may be a device for applying thermal stimulation to the chest 32. Moreover, the left and right upper arm outlets provided in the left and right armrests of the driver's seat 2 in an upwardly opening manner and blowing air mainly to the left and right upper arm 33 may be a device for applying thermal stimulation to the left and right upper arm 33. Moreover, the left and right forearm outlets provided in the steering wheel and blowing air mainly to the left and right forearm 34 may be a device for applying thermal stimulation to the left and right forearm. Moreover, the Peltier element provided in the steering wheel and heated when there is a grip portion of the steering wheel and cooled at other times may be a device for applying thermal stimulation to the left and right hands. Furthermore, the left and right thigh outlets that are provided at the left and right armrests of the driver's seat 2 in a downwardly opening manner and blow air mainly to the left and right thighs 37 serve as a device for applying thermal stimulation to the left and right thighs 37. Furthermore, the heating and cooling device that is provided in the portion surrounding the foot space in the baffle 4 and heats when the left and right calf portions 38 are present and cools at other times serves as a device for applying thermal stimulation to the left and right calf portions 38. The heating and cooling device may be, for example, a Peltier element, or a radiation heater may be combined with a foot outlet that blows out cold air. Then, the Peltier element that is provided in the bottom plate portion of the foot space and heats when the left and right feet 39 are present and cools at other times serves as a device for applying thermal stimulation to the left and right feet 39.

[0221] Alternatively, the air blown out from the five outlets, namely, the outlet for the head, the outlet for the neck, the outlet for the chest, the outlet for the left and right upper arms, the outlet for the left and right forearms, and the outlet for the left and right thighs, can be independently temperature-controlled. In this case, the air conditioning housing 11 has five separated air passages dedicated to these outlets, and air mixing doors that independently adjust the air volume ratio of cold air and warm air are provided in these air passages.

[0222] (Variant 3)

[0223] The target values ​​of the body parts 30 to 39 in the target thermal sensation distribution of each pattern are not limited to the target values ​​in the above-described embodiments.

[0224] (Variant 4)

[0225] In each of the above embodiments, the air conditioning ECU 40 applies thermal stimulation to the body part having the largest absolute value of the difference between the current value of the thermal sensation and the target value. However, the object to which the thermal stimulation is applied may also be selected based on factors other than the difference between the current value of the thermal sensation and the target value. For example, a predetermined fixed order may be assigned to a plurality of body parts, and the air conditioning ECU 40 may apply thermal stimulation to the body part according to the order.

[0226] (Variant 5)

[0227] In each of the above embodiments, the air conditioning ECU 40 preferentially applies thermal stimulation to the body part having the largest absolute value of the difference between the target SET* and SET*. However, in addition to the absolute value of the difference between the target SET* and SET*, the priority of thermal stimulation to each body part may also be determined based on the difference in the effect of the thermal stimulation part.

[0228] For example, when the difference in the above absolute values ​​between a certain body part and another body part is below a specified value, the priority of thermal stimulation between these body parts may be determined based on the difference in the effect of the thermal stimulation part. For example, during heating, a body part to which thermal stimulation is applied by a steering heater or a seat heater that is in contact with or close to the human body and can effectively provide thermal stimulation may be given priority over a body part to which thermal stimulation is applied by a heater provided on the interior wall surface of the vehicle 1. Furthermore, a body part to which thermal stimulation is applied by a heater provided on the interior wall surface of the vehicle 1 may be given priority over a body part to which thermal stimulation is applied by a heater provided on the interior wall surface of the vehicle 1.

[0229] (Variant 6)

[0230] In the above-mentioned embodiments, the individual thermal stimulation is applied to only one body part at a time. However, the individual thermal stimulation may be applied to multiple body parts at the same time.

[0231] (Variant 7)

[0232] In the above-mentioned embodiments, SET* is used as an index indicating thermal sensation. However, a thermal environment evaluation index PMV (Predicted Mean Vote: predicted thermal sensation report) may be used as an index indicating thermal sensation instead of SET*.

[0233] (Variant 8)

[0234] In each of the above-mentioned embodiments, in step S110, the air conditioning ECU 40 selects one mode from the four modes based on the operation of the state setting unit 21 by the occupant 3. However, the air conditioning ECU 40 may select one mode from the four modes based on other than the operation of the occupant 3. For example, the air conditioning ECU 40 may specify the action of the occupant through image recognition technology based on the image obtained from the thermal imager 9, and select one mode from the four modes based on the specified action. That is, the air conditioning ECU 40 may select one mode from the four modes based on the biological information of the occupant obtained from the on-board sensor.

[0235] For example, when the occupant is performing driving operations, the concentration mode M2 ​​may be selected. Also, for example, when the occupant takes his hands off the steering wheel and falls asleep, the sleep mode B1 may be selected.

[0236] (Variant 8)

[0237] In the above-mentioned embodiments, four standard thermal sensation distributions are recorded in the storage unit 402 corresponding to the four modes of the relaxation mode M1, the focus mode M2, the sleep mode B1, and the vitality mode B2. Moreover, the air conditioning ECU 40 selects one mode from the four modes in step S110. That is, the mode options are the four modes of the relaxation mode M1, the focus mode M2, the sleep mode B1, and the vitality mode B2.

[0238] However, the number of mode options can be two or three. In this case, when manufacturing or designing the thermal sensation adjustment device, the mode to enter the option can be arbitrarily selected from the relaxation mode M1, the focus mode M2, the sleep mode B1, and the vitality mode B2. In this case, the standard thermal sensation distribution stored in the storage unit 402 only records the content corresponding to the two or three modes determined among the relaxation mode M1, the focus mode M2, the sleep mode B1, and the vitality mode B2.

[0239] (Variant 9)

[0240] In the above embodiment, Figure 4 The processing is performed by the air conditioning ECU 40. However, it is also possible to perform the processing by a processing device provided separately from the air conditioning ECU 40. Figure 4 In this case, the processing device corresponds to the selection unit by executing step S110, and corresponds to the stimulation control unit by executing step S170.

[0241] (Variant 10)

[0242] In the above embodiment, the ventilation path 111 of the air conditioning unit 5 is a single path, but the ventilation path 111 may be divided into a plurality of small ventilation paths by a partition plate. For example, the ventilation path 111 may be divided into an inner air path for guiding the inner air to the foot outlet 43 and an outer air path for guiding the outer air to the defrost outlet 41 and the face outlet 42 by a partition plate.

[0243] In addition, there may be a plurality of defrost outlets 41, face outlets 42, and foot outlets 43, one of which is arranged on the driver's seat side and the other on the passenger seat side. In this case, the inner air passage may be divided by a partition plate into an inner air passage on the driver's seat side that directs the inner air to the foot outlet 43 on the driver's seat side and an inner air passage on the passenger seat side that directs the inner air to the foot outlet 43 on the passenger seat side. In addition, the outer air passage may be divided by a partition plate into an outer air passage on the driver's seat side that directs the outer air to the defrost outlet 41 and face outlet 42 on the driver's seat side and an outer air passage on the passenger seat side that directs the outer air to the defrost outlet 41 and face outlet 42 on the passenger seat side.

[0244] (Variant 11)

[0245] In each of the above embodiments, the storage unit 402 mounted on the vehicle 1 stores standard thermal sensation distribution, linkage data, batch correction data, etc. However, this may not necessarily be the case. Alternatively, only a portion or all of these standard thermal sensation distribution, linkage data, and batch correction data may be stored in one or more servers (e.g., a cloud) provided at a location other than the vehicle 1. In this case, the air conditioning ECU 40 communicates with the server to read and write the data in the server among the standard thermal sensation distribution, linkage data, and batch correction data.

[0246] Alternatively, the air-conditioning ECU 40 itself may be provided in one or more servers installed at a location other than the vehicle 1. In this case, the air-conditioning ECU 40 communicates with the devices in the vehicle by using communication, thereby realizing the above-mentioned processing.

[0247] (Variant 12)

[0248] In the second and third embodiments described above, the air conditioning ECU 40 Fig.17 , Fig.23 In step S220 of , the linkage data is changed, but the standard target thermal sensation distribution of all modes may be changed. In this case, the standard target thermal sensation distribution of all modes recorded in the storage unit 402 is equivalent to linkage data that can specify the changed value of the target thermal sensation distribution of each mode.

[0249] (Variant 13)

[0250] In the second and third embodiments, the air conditioning ECU 40 can reset additional modes different from the relaxation mode M1, the focus mode M2, the sleep mode B1, and the vitality mode B2 according to the operation of the touch panel 61 by the passenger 3. The standard thermal distribution in this mode can be determined according to the setting operation of the touch panel 61 by the passenger 3. When the additional mode set in this way is set by step S110, it is corrected according to the linkage data and the season as with other modes. By doing so, the passenger 3 can reset and enjoy the thermal distribution they like.

[0251] (Variant 14)

[0252] In the second and third embodiments, the air conditioning ECU 40 may invalidate the linkage data when a predetermined operation is performed on the touch panel 61. When the linkage data is invalidated, the correction of step S128 is not performed. In addition, when the linkage data is invalidated, the air conditioning ECU 40 may validate the linkage data based on a predetermined operation on the touch panel 61. When the linkage data is validated, the correction of step S128 is performed.

[0253] In addition, the prescribed operation on the touch panel 61 may be, for example, that a prescribed position of the touch panel 61 is pressed continuously for a prescribed time or longer, i.e., long pressing the prescribed position of the touch panel 61. Alternatively, the prescribed operation on the touch panel 61 may be that a prescribed position of the touch panel 61 is pressed twice within a prescribed period, i.e., double-clicking the prescribed position of the touch panel 61.

[0254] (Variant 15)

[0255] In the second and third embodiments, the linkage data is changed based on the operation of the touch panel 61. However, the linkage data may be changed based on the voice of the passenger 3 acquired by a voice recognition device (not shown) from a microphone (not shown). In other words, the linkage data may be changed by the voice operation of the passenger 3.

[0256] (Variant 16)

[0257] In the above embodiment, the relaxation 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 these modes. The combination of the first mode and the second mode may be any combination as long as they are different modes from each other.

[0258] (Variant 17)

[0259] In the above embodiment, as an operation for moving the batch slider 503d to change the batch correction data, the operation of the batch minus button 503a or the batch plus button 503b is exemplified. However, as an operation for moving the batch slider 503d to change the batch correction data, for example, the operation of selecting the batch slider 503d and dragging it may be used. In addition, in the above embodiment, as an operation for moving the different part slider 504d to change the linkage data, the operation of the different part minus button 504a and the different part plus button 504b is exemplified. However, as an operation for moving the different part slider 504d to change the linkage data, for example, the operation of selecting the different part slider 504d and dragging it may be used.

[0260] (Summarize)

[0261] According to a first viewpoint representing part or all of the above-mentioned embodiments, a thermal sensation adjustment device for adjusting the thermal sensation of a vehicle occupant comprises: a thermal stimulation unit configured to apply thermal stimulation to multiple body parts of the occupant and capable of changing the distribution of the thermal stimulation in different body parts; a selection unit configured to select a mode from at least two of 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; and a stimulation control unit configured to control the occupant's thermal sensation based on a target thermal sensation distribution corresponding to the mode selected by the selection unit. The thermal stimulation part, the target thermal sensation distributions corresponding to the at least two modes are data representing target values ​​of multiple thermal sensations for each of the multiple body parts, the target values ​​of thermal sensations for a designated body part among the multiple body parts of each target thermal sensation distribution are different from each other, and the stimulation control part controls the thermal stimulation part so that the thermal stimulation applied to the designated body part when any one of the at least two modes is selected by the selection part is different from the thermal stimulation applied to the designated body part when the other modes of the at least two modes are selected by the selection part.

[0262] In addition, according to the second viewpoint, the designated body part is the head of the occupant, and the stimulation control unit controls the thermal stimulation unit so that the thermal stimulation applied to the head when the arbitrary mode is selected by the selection unit is different from the thermal stimulation applied to the head when the other mode is selected by the selection unit.

[0263] The state of the occupant's brain is strongly related to both mental and physical activities. Therefore, by applying different thermal stimulations to the head when the mode selected by the selection unit is different, the distribution of the thermal sensation in multiple parts of the occupant's body can be adjusted in a manner that is more suitable for the occupant's desired mental or physical state.

[0264] In addition, according to the third viewpoint, the stimulation control unit applies thermal stimulation to the one body part based on the current value of the thermal sensation targeting the one body part so that the value of the thermal sensation targeting the one body part approaches the target value of the thermal sensation targeting the one body part.

[0265] In this way, by bringing the value of the thermal sensation closer to the target value based on the current value of the thermal sensation, the occupant can be more effectively guided to the desired mental state or physical state of the occupant.

[0266] In addition, according to a fourth aspect, the thermal sense adjustment device comprises: a storage unit, which stores linkage data according to the change operation when the first mode of the at least two modes is selected by the selection unit, and when the occupant performs a change operation on the target thermal sense distribution of the first mode; and a change unit, which changes the target thermal sense distribution of the first mode based on the linkage data when the first mode is selected by the selection unit. Moreover, when a second mode different from the first mode of the at least two modes is selected by the selection unit, the change unit changes the target thermal sense distribution of the second mode based on the linkage data in linkage with the change operation on the target thermal sense distribution of the first mode.

[0267] The inventors of the present application have studied a so-called learning technique for continuously reflecting the occupant's change operation in the subsequent target thermal sensation distribution adjustment in order to finely control thermal sensation stimulation according to the thermal sensation preferences of each occupant in a thermal sensation adjustment device.

[0268] In a thermal sensation control device, when the previous learning technology is simply applied, the target value of the thermal sensation of a specified body part (e.g., the head) is learned for a certain purpose (e.g., wanting to calm the mind). However, for other purposes (e.g., wanting to activate the body), the learning is not reflected in the target value of the thermal sensation of the body part. According to the research of the inventor of the present application, when the occupant changes the thermal stimulation of the body part for a certain purpose, there is a tendency to like to change the thermal stimulation of the body part in the same way for other purposes. Therefore, simply citing the previous learning technology cannot effectively learn the change of the target thermal sensation distribution.

[0269] Therefore, linkage data is introduced to effectively reflect the thermal sensation preferences of the occupant in each thermal sensation distribution, thereby making it possible to effectively learn the occupant's changes to the target thermal sensation distribution.

[0270] According to the fifth aspect, when a change operation of selecting and designating one body part is performed as the change operation, the change unit changes only the target value of the thermal sensation of the one body part based on the change operation. This enables detailed learning of different body parts.

[0271] According to the sixth aspect, when a change operation without selecting a designated body part is performed as the change operation, the change unit changes the target values ​​of the thermal sensation of two or more body parts based on the change operation. By doing so, compared with fine adjustment of different body parts, the complexity is reduced and simple adjustment is achieved.

[0272] In addition, according to the seventh aspect, the thermal sensation adjustment device comprises: a season determination unit that determines a season; and a season corresponding unit that applies a change corresponding to the season determined by the season determination unit to the target thermal sensation distribution of the mode selected by the selection unit. By doing so, it is possible to adjust the thermal sensation stimulation appropriately corresponding to the change of seasons.

[0273] In addition, according to the eighth aspect, the thermal sensation adjustment device includes a display control unit, which displays the current value and target value of the thermal sensation of the occupant according to different body parts, and changes the display mode when the current value reaches the target value and before reaching it, and further displays the time until the current value reaches the target value according to different body parts. By doing so, the difference between the body parts where the target thermal sensation distribution has been achieved and the body parts where it has not been achieved can be confirmed not only physically but also visually.

Claims

1. A thermal sensation adjustment device for adjusting the thermal sensation of a vehicle occupant, characterized in that: have: A thermal stimulation unit (5, 6, 7, 8), which is configured to apply thermal stimulation to multiple body parts of the occupant and can change the distribution of the thermal stimulation in different body parts; a selection unit (S110) for selecting a mode from at least two of a mode for calming the mind of the occupant, a mode for activating the mind of the occupant, a mode for calming the body of the occupant, and a mode for activating the body of the occupant; as well as a stimulation control unit (S170) for controlling the thermal stimulation unit based on a target thermal sensation distribution corresponding to the mode selected by the selection unit, The target thermal sensation distributions corresponding to the at least two modes are data indicating target values ​​of a plurality of thermal sensations for each of the plurality of body parts. The target thermal sensation values ​​of the target thermal sensation distributions for the designated body parts among the plurality of body parts are different from each other. The stimulation control unit controls the thermal stimulation unit so that the thermal stimulation applied to the designated body part when any one of the at least two modes is selected by the selection unit is different from the thermal stimulation applied to the designated body part when the other one of the at least two modes is selected by the selection unit.

2. The thermal sensation adjustment device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The designated body part is the head of the occupant, and the stimulation control unit controls the thermal stimulation unit so that the thermal stimulation applied to the head when the arbitrary mode is selected by the selection unit is different from the thermal stimulation applied to the head when the other mode is selected by the selection unit.

3. The thermal sensation adjustment device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The stimulation control unit applies thermal stimulation to the designated body part based on the current value of the thermal sensation for the designated body part so that the value of the thermal sensation for the designated body part approaches the target value of the thermal sensation for the designated body part.

4. The thermal sensation adjustment device according to claim 1, characterized in that: have: a storage unit (402) for storing linkage data according to a change operation of the target thermal sensation distribution of the first mode when the first mode of the at least two modes is selected by the selection unit and the occupant performs a change operation on the first mode; as well as a changing unit (S128) that changes the target thermal sensation distribution of the first mode based on the linkage data when the first mode is selected by the selecting unit, When a second mode different from the first mode is selected from among the at least two modes by the selection unit, the changing unit changes the target thermal sensation distribution of the second mode in conjunction with the change operation of the target thermal sensation distribution of the first mode based on the linkage data.

5. The thermal sensation adjustment device according to claim 4, characterized in that: When a change operation of selecting and designating one body part is performed as the change operation, the change unit changes only the target value of the thermal sensation of the one body part based on the change operation.

6. The thermal sensation adjustment device according to claim 4, characterized in that: When a change operation of not selecting a designated body part is performed as the change operation, the change unit changes the target values ​​of thermal sensations of two or more body parts based on the change operation.

7. The thermal sensation adjustment device according to claim 1, characterized in that: have: a season determination unit (S124) for determining a season; and A season corresponding unit (S126) is configured to change the target thermal sensation distribution of the mode selected by the selection unit in accordance with the season determined by the season determination unit.

8. The thermal sensation adjustment device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that: A display control unit (S205, S210) is provided, which displays the current value and target value of the occupant's thermal sensation according to different body parts, and changes the display mode when the current value reaches the target value and before reaching it, and further displays the time until the current value reaches the target value according to different body parts.

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