Warmth sensation adjustment system

Abstract

A thermal sensation adjustment system that adjusts a thermal sensation of an occupant of a vehicle includes: a first air conditioning device (120) that blows air conditioning air toward a first space (S1); a second air conditioning device (140) that blows air conditioning air toward a second space (S2) that is an air-conditioned target space different from the first space; a thermal sensation detection unit (70) that detects information related to a thermal sensation of each of a plurality of body parts of the occupant; and a thermal sensation deviation calculation unit (84a) that calculates a difference between the thermal sensation of each of the plurality of body parts of the occupant and a target thermal sensation of each of the plurality of body parts of the occupant, the thermal sensation of each of the plurality of body parts of the occupant being calculated based on the information related to the thermal sensation detected by the thermal sensation detection unit, and in a case where there is a thermal sensation deviation part in which the calculated thermal sensation deviates from the target thermal sensation among the plurality of body parts of the occupant present in the second space, the first air conditioning device blows the air conditioning air toward the thermal sensation deviation part to cause the thermal sensation of the thermal sensation deviation part to approach the target thermal sensation.

Description

[0001] Cross-reference of related applications

[0002] This application is based on Japanese Patent Application No. 2021-133617, filed on August 18, 2021, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This invention relates to a temperature-sensing adjustment system. Background Technology

[0004] Conventional vehicle air conditioning systems are known to include a front-seat air conditioning unit that regulates the air temperature on the front side of the vehicle interior and a rear-seat air conditioning unit that regulates the air temperature on the rear side of the vehicle interior (see, for example, Patent Document 1). In this vehicle air conditioning system, the front-seat air conditioning unit primarily adjusts the temperature of the space on the front side of the vehicle interior, and the rear-seat air conditioning unit primarily adjusts the temperature of the space on the rear side of the vehicle interior, thereby adjusting the temperature sensation of occupants sitting in the front and rear seats respectively.

[0005] Existing technical documents

[0006] Patent documents

[0007] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2020-193725

[0008] However, humans have a temperature sensation distribution, which represents the comfortable temperature felt by each of multiple body parts. Furthermore, the comfortable temperature felt by each of these multiple body parts can sometimes differ. However, the vehicle air conditioning system described in Patent Document 1 adjusts the temperature of the front and rear seats without considering the temperature sensation distribution, thus making it difficult to adjust the occupant's temperature sensation to provide different sensations for each body part. In this situation, some parts of the occupant's body may feel uncomfortable.

[0009] To address this, there are methods that add radiant heaters, heated shawls, or other temperature adjustment devices to each of the various body parts of the occupant whose temperature needs to be adjusted, thereby adjusting the temperature of each individual body part. However, the main reason for this is the need for additional temperature adjustment devices for each part of the occupant's body, which requires a dedicated space and increases costs. This was discovered by the inventors of this application after in-depth research. Summary of the Invention

[0010] The purpose of this invention is to provide a temperature adjustment system that reduces the number of temperature adjustment devices and is able to adjust the temperature sensation of each part of the occupant's body.

[0011] According to one aspect of the present invention,

[0012] The temperature adjustment system for adjusting the body temperature of vehicle occupants includes:

[0013] A first air conditioning unit blows air conditioning air toward a first space, which is the space to be conditioned.

[0014] A second air conditioning unit blows air conditioning air toward a second space, which is an air conditioning target space that is different from the first space.

[0015] A temperature detection unit that detects information related to the temperature sensation of each of multiple body parts of the occupant; and

[0016] A temperature deviation calculation unit calculates the difference between the temperature sensation of each of the occupant's multiple body parts and the target temperature sensation of each of the occupant's multiple body parts. The temperature sensation of each of the occupant's multiple body parts is calculated based on temperature-related information detected by a temperature detection unit.

[0017] In cases where there are areas of calculated warmth that deviate from the target warmth among multiple body parts of the occupant in the second space, the first air conditioning unit blows air conditioning air toward the areas of deviated warmth to bring the warmth of the areas of deviated warmth closer to the target warmth.

[0018] Therefore, even when there are areas of body temperature disparity among the occupants in the second space, the occupant's temperature can be adjusted by blowing airflow towards these disparate areas using the first air conditioning unit. Thus, it is unnecessary to add an additional temperature adjustment device to each area where temperature adjustment is desired. Therefore, the number of temperature adjustment devices required can be reduced, and temperature adjustment can be applied to each part of the occupant's body.

[0019] Furthermore, the parenthesized reference symbols used to annotate each structural element indicate an example of the correspondence between that structural element and the specific structural elements described in the embodiments described later. Attached Figure Description

[0020] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram showing a vehicle equipped with the temperature sensing adjustment system of this embodiment.

[0021] Figure 2 This is a schematic structural diagram of the refrigeration cycle device and air conditioning unit in this embodiment.

[0022] Figure 3 This is a block diagram showing the electrical structure of the temperature sensing adjustment system in this embodiment.

[0023] Figure 4 This is a graph showing the distribution of the temperature reference values ​​for the summer default mode in this embodiment.

[0024] Figure 5 This is a graph showing the distribution of the temperature reference values ​​for the winter default mode in this embodiment.

[0025] Figure 6 This is a graph showing the distribution of the thermal reference values ​​for the relaxation mode in this embodiment.

[0026] Figure 7 This is a graph showing the distribution of the thermal reference values ​​in the focus mode of this embodiment.

[0027] Figure 8 This is a block diagram illustrating the general operation of the temperature sensing adjustment system in this embodiment.

[0028] Figure 9 This is a diagram illustrating the assumed operation of the temperature sensing adjustment system used to explain the operation of this embodiment.

[0029] Figure 10 This is a diagram showing the distribution of the target's temperature sensation and the direction of the air conditioning airflow in each operating mode of this embodiment.

[0030] Figure 11 This is a flowchart of the control process performed by the temperature adjustment unit of the departing part in this embodiment.

[0031] Figure 12 This diagram illustrates the operation of the temperature sensing adjustment system in this embodiment.

[0032] Figure 13 This diagram illustrates how the temperature adjustment system of this embodiment adjusts the temperature of each of the multiple body parts of an occupant.

[0033] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram showing a vehicle equipped with a temperature-sensing adjustment system as described in other embodiments. Detailed Implementation

[0034] based on Figures 1 to 13 This invention describes one embodiment of the present invention. The temperature sensing adjustment system of this embodiment is for... Figure 1 The temperature of the front seat occupant 3 (seated in the front seat 2) and the rear seat occupant 5 (seated in the rear seat 4) inside the vehicle 1 shown are adjusted. For example... Figure 1 and Figure 2As shown, the temperature adjustment system includes an air conditioning unit 10, which primarily adjusts the temperature of the space where the front seat occupant 3 and the rear seat occupant 5 exist within the vehicle 1, thereby adjusting the temperature sensation of the front seat occupant 3 and the rear seat occupant 5. Furthermore, the temperature adjustment system includes a seat air conditioning unit 40 for adjusting the temperature sensation of the rear seat occupant 5, an IR sensor 70 for detecting the temperature sensation of the rear seat occupant 5, and an air conditioning ECU 80 (described later) for controlling various components of the temperature adjustment system.

[0035] The interior space of the vehicle 1 equipped with the temperature-sensing adjustment system of this embodiment is divided into a first space S1 and a second space S2 by a space partition 6. The first space S1 is the space for air conditioning in the vehicle interior and is the space where the front seats 2 are located. The second space S2 is the space for air conditioning in the vehicle interior and is the space where the rear seats 4 are located.

[0036] Furthermore, although not illustrated, in the first space S1, a driver's seat and a front passenger seat are arranged side-by-side in the vehicle width direction; the driver's seat is the front seat 2. Additionally, although not illustrated, in the second space S2, two rear seats 4 are arranged side-by-side in the vehicle width direction. In this embodiment, the example where the front seat 2 is the driver's seat has been described, but it is also possible for the front seat 2 to be replaced by the front passenger seat. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the example where the rear seat 4 is provided on one side of the two rear seats has been described, but it is also possible for the rear seat 4 to be on the other side. And hereafter, "up," "down," "left," and "right" refer to "up," "down," "left," and "right" in vehicle 1.

[0037] The air conditioning unit 10 primarily functions to adjust the temperature inside the vehicle by blowing temperature-adjusted air into the vehicle interior, and to adjust the individual temperature sensation of the front seat occupant 3 and the rear seat occupant 5 by blowing air into them. Figure 2 As shown, the air conditioning unit 10 includes a refrigeration cycle device 110, a first air conditioning device 120, a second air conditioning device 140, etc.

[0038] The refrigeration cycle device 110 includes: a compressor 111 for compressing refrigerant, a radiator 112 for dissipating heat from the high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant discharged from the compressor 111, and a first expansion valve 113 and a second expansion valve 114 for depressurizing the refrigerant flowing out of the radiator 112. Additionally, the refrigeration cycle device 110 includes a first evaporator 115 for evaporating the refrigerant flowing out of the first expansion valve 113 and a second evaporator 116 for evaporating the refrigerant flowing out of the second expansion valve 114.

[0039] The compressor 111 draws in, compresses, and discharges refrigerant in the refrigeration cycle unit 110. The compressor 111 is an electric compressor with an electric motor that drives a fixed-capacity compressor mechanism with a fixed discharge capacity. The speed (i.e., refrigerant discharge capacity) of the compressor 111 is controlled according to a control signal output from the air conditioning ECU 80 (described later). The discharge port of the compressor 111 is connected to the radiator 112.

[0040] Radiator 112 is a heat exchanger that cools the refrigerant by exchanging heat between the high-pressure refrigerant discharged from compressor 111 and the outside air. The refrigerant outlet side of radiator 112 is connected to the first expansion valve 113 and the second expansion valve 114.

[0041] The first expansion valve 113 and the second expansion valve 114 are pressure reducers that reduce the pressure and expand the refrigerant flowing out of the radiator 112. The operation of the first expansion valve 113 and the second expansion valve 114 is controlled according to the control signal output from the air conditioning ECU 80. The refrigerant outlet side of the first expansion valve 113 is connected to the first evaporator 115. The refrigerant outlet side of the second expansion valve 114 is connected to the second evaporator 116.

[0042] The first evaporator 115 and the second evaporator 116 are heat exchangers used for heat absorption, in which the refrigerant, which is depressurized and expanded by the first expansion valve 113 and the second expansion valve 114 respectively, exchanges heat with the air flowing inside the air conditioning unit 10, thereby causing the refrigerant to evaporate and thus absorbing heat. The refrigerant outlet side of the first evaporator 115 and the refrigerant outlet side of the second evaporator 116 are connected to the refrigerant suction side of the compressor 111.

[0043] Next, the first air conditioning unit 120 and the second air conditioning unit 140 will be described. The first air conditioning unit 120 is an air conditioning unit that primarily regulates the air in the first space S1 by blowing air conditioning air towards the first space S1. Moreover, as described later, the first air conditioning unit 120 has the function of adjusting the temperature of the rear seat occupant 5 in the second space S2 when the second air conditioning unit 140 regulates the air in the second space S2. The first air conditioning unit 120 is disposed inside the dashboard (not shown).

[0044] The second air conditioning unit 140 is an air conditioning unit that regulates the air in the second space S2 by blowing air conditioning air towards the second space S2. The second air conditioning unit 140 is located under the floor of the vehicle 1, behind the rear seat 4.

[0045] The first air conditioning unit 120, which regulates the air in the first space S1 where the front seats 2 are located, is configured to have a greater air conditioning capacity than the second air conditioning unit 140, which regulates the air in the second space S2 where the rear seats 4 are located. In other words, the first air conditioning unit 120 is configured to blow out a larger volume of air than the second air conditioning unit 140. This is because the first space S1 where the front seats 2 are located is easily affected by radiant heat generated by sunlight through the windshield, and heat inside the vehicle is easily lost through the windshield, so the air conditioning unit regulating the air in the first space S1 needs to have a greater air conditioning capacity.

[0046] The first air conditioning unit 120 includes a first air conditioning housing 121, a first indoor / outdoor air switching door 122, a first centrifugal fan 123, a first front seat heater core 124, a first front seat air mixing door 125, a first front seat surface section 126, a first front seat foot section 127, and a defrost door 128. Additionally, the first air conditioning unit 120 includes a first rear seat heater core 129, a first rear seat air mixing door 130, a first rear seat surface section 131, and a first rear seat foot section 132. Furthermore, the first air conditioning unit 120 includes a first front seat surface duct 133, a first front seat foot duct 134, a defrost duct 135, a first rear seat surface duct 136, a first rear seat foot duct 137, and an airflow adjustment panel 138.

[0047] In addition, the first air conditioning unit 120 includes a first indoor / outdoor air actuator 122a, a first fan actuator 123a, a first front seat air mixing actuator 125a, and a first front seat mode actuator 126a. Furthermore, the first air conditioning unit 120 includes a first rear seat air mixing actuator 130a, a first rear seat mode actuator 131a, and an airflow direction actuator 138a, etc.

[0048] The first air conditioning housing 121 surrounds the first ventilation passage 121a through which the temperature-adjusted air blown into the vehicle interior passes. The first indoor / outdoor air switching door 122 is a component that adjusts the opening area of ​​the first indoor air inlet 121b and the opening area of ​​the first outdoor air inlet 121c. The first indoor / outdoor air switching door 122 rotates in such a way that the more one of the openings of the first indoor air inlet 121b and the first outdoor air inlet 121c is opened, the more the other opening is closed. Thus, the first indoor / outdoor air switching door 122 can adjust the ratio (i.e., the indoor / outdoor air ratio) of the indoor air volume to the outdoor air volume introduced into the first ventilation passage 121a. Here, indoor air refers to the air inside the vehicle interior, and outdoor air refers to the air outside the vehicle interior.

[0049] The first internal / external air actuator 122a is the actuator that drives the first internal / external air switching valve 122, such as Figure 3 As shown, the first internal and external air actuator 122a is controlled by the air conditioning ECU 80.

[0050] With the first internal air inlet 121b open, the first centrifugal fan 123 rotates to draw internal air from the first internal air inlet 121b into the first ventilation path 121a, and delivers the drawn air downstream of the airflow of the first centrifugal fan 123 within the first ventilation path 121a. Conversely, with the first external air inlet 121c open, the first centrifugal fan 123 rotates to draw external air from the first external air inlet 121c into the first ventilation path 121a, and delivers the drawn air downstream of the airflow of the first centrifugal fan 123 within the first ventilation path 121a.

[0051] The first fan actuator 123a is the actuator that drives the first centrifugal fan 123, such as Figure 3 As shown, the first fan actuator 123a is controlled by the air conditioning ECU 80. The downstream side of the airflow from the first centrifugal fan 123 in the first ventilation path 121a is divided into a front seat first ventilation path 121aa and a rear seat first ventilation path 121ab by a ventilation path partition wall 121d. Downstream of the airflow from the first centrifugal fan 123 in the first ventilation path 121a, the first evaporator 115 is configured to span both the front seat first ventilation path 121aa and the rear seat first ventilation path 121ab.

[0052] The first evaporator 115 cools the air supplied from the first centrifugal fan 123. The first evaporator 115, together with the compressor 111, radiator 112, and first expansion valve 113, forms a refrigeration cycle. When the refrigerant flowing through this refrigeration cycle passes through the first evaporator 115, it exchanges heat with the air. Through this heat exchange, the refrigerant evaporates, and the air is cooled. A first front seat heater core 124 is disposed downstream of the airflow from the first evaporator 115 in the first ventilation passage 121aa of the front seat. Additionally, a first rear seat heater core 129 is disposed downstream of the airflow from the first evaporator 115 in the first ventilation passage 121ab of the rear seat.

[0053] The first front seat heater core 124 is disposed within the first front seat ventilation passage 121aa, downstream of the airflow from the first evaporator 115. Engine coolant flows through the first front seat heater core 124. The first front seat heater core 124 heats the air by exchanging heat between the air passing through the first evaporator 115 and the engine coolant. Alternatively, the first front seat heater core 124 can be replaced with an electric heater that heats the air passing through the first evaporator 115. A first front seat air mixing gate 125 is provided upstream of the airflow from the first front seat heater core 124.

[0054] A first front seat air mixing door 125 is disposed between the first evaporator 115 and the first front seat heater core 124. The first front seat air mixing door 125 is a door that adjusts the ratio of the volume of cold air flowing around the first front seat heater core 124 after passing through the first evaporator 115 to the volume of warm air passing through the first front seat heater core 124 after passing through the first evaporator 115. In other words, the first front seat air mixing door 125 adjusts the air mixing ratio.

[0055] The first front seat air mixing actuator 125a is an actuator that drives the first front seat air mixing door 125, such as Figure 3 As shown, the first front seat air mixing actuator 125a is controlled by the air conditioning ECU 80.

[0056] The basic structure of the first rear seat heater core 129 is the same as that of the first front seat heater core 124, so its description is omitted. Similarly, the basic structure of the first rear seat air mixing door 130 is the same as that of the first front seat air mixing door 125, so its description is omitted.

[0057] like Figure 2 As shown, in the first air conditioning housing 121, a plurality of openings are formed downstream of the first ventilation passage 121aa in the airflow direction of the front seat for blowing air conditioning air from the first ventilation passage 121aa into the first space S1. Specifically, in the first air conditioning housing 121, a first front seat face opening 121e, a first front seat foot opening 121f, and a defrost opening 121g are formed downstream of the first ventilation passage 121aa in the airflow direction of the front seat. Air conditioning air flows from an air mixing space, in which air bypassing the first front seat heater core 124 is mixed with air passing through the first front seat heater core 124, to these first front seat face openings 121e, first front seat foot openings 121f, and defrost openings 121g.

[0058] Furthermore, in the first air conditioning housing 121, a first rear seat face opening 121h and a first rear seat foot opening 121k are formed downstream of the airflow direction of the rear seat first ventilation passage 121ab for blowing air conditioning air from the rear seat first ventilation passage 121ab to the second space S2. Air conditioning air flows from the air mixing space in the rear seat first ventilation passage 121ab, where air bypassing the first rear seat heater core 129 is mixed with air passing through the first rear seat heater core 129, to these first rear seat face openings 121h and first rear seat foot openings 121k.

[0059] Front seat mode switching doors for opening and closing their respective openings are provided in the first front seat front opening 121e, the first front seat foot opening 121f, and the defrost opening 121. The front seat mode switching doors consist of a first front seat front section 126, a first front seat foot section 127, and a defrost door 128. The first front seat front section 126 opens and closes the first front seat front opening 121e. The first front seat foot section 127 opens and closes the first front seat foot opening 121f. The defrost door 128 opens and closes the defrost opening 121g.

[0060] The first front seat mode actuator 126a is an actuator that drives the first front seat surface section 126, the first front seat foot section 127, and the defrost door 128, such as Figure 3 As shown, the first front seat mode actuator 126a is controlled by the air conditioning ECU 80. The first front seat mode actuator 126a controls the first front seat airflow mode of the first air conditioning unit 120. The first front seat airflow mode includes, for example, a first front seat face mode, a first front seat foot mode, and a defrost mode.

[0061] The first front seat face mode is a blowing mode with the first front seat face section 126 open and the first front seat foot section 127 and defrost door 128 closed. The first front seat foot mode is a blowing mode with the first front seat foot section 127 open and the first front seat face section 126 and defrost door 128 closed. The defrost mode is a blowing mode with the defrost door 128 open and the first front seat face section 126 and first front seat foot section 127 closed.

[0062] One end of the first front seat facial conduit 133 is connected to the first front seat facial opening 121e, such as Figure 1 As shown, the first front seat face air outlet 133a, which is the other end, opens in the dashboard at a position opposite to the back of the front seat 2. Air from the first front seat ventilation passage 121aa passes through the first front seat face opening 121e, and after passing through the first front seat face duct 133, it is blown out from the first front seat face air outlet 133a into the first space S1. The air blown out from the first front seat face air outlet 133a mainly flows toward or around the upper body of the front seat occupant 3 seated in the front seat 2.

[0063] One end of the first front seat foot passage 134 is connected to the first front seat foot opening 121f, such as Figure 1As shown, the first front seat footwell air outlet 134a, at the other end, opens in the dashboard opposite to the footwell space in front of the seat cushion of the front seat 2. Air from the first front seat ventilation passage 121aa, passing through the first front seat footwell opening 121f, passes through the first front seat footwell duct 134 and is then blown out from the first front seat footwell air outlet 134a into the first space S1. The air blown out from the first front seat footwell air outlet 134a flows toward and around the lower legs of the front seat occupant 3 seated in the front seat 2.

[0064] One end of the defrosting pipe 135 is connected to the defrosting opening 121g, such as Figure 1 As shown, the defrost outlet 135a, at the other end, opens in the dashboard opposite the windshield. Air from the front seat first ventilation passage 121aa, passing through the defrost opening 121g, passes through the defrost duct 135 and is then blown out from the defrost outlet 135a into the first space S1. The air blown out from the defrost outlet 135a flows toward or around the windshield.

[0065] Rear seat mode switching doors for opening and closing their respective openings are provided in the first rear seat front opening 121h and the first rear seat foot opening 121k. The rear seat mode switching doors are composed of a first rear seat front section 131 and a first rear seat foot section 132. The first rear seat front section 131 opens and closes the first rear seat front opening 121h. The first rear seat foot section 132 opens and closes the first rear seat foot opening 121k.

[0066] The first rear seat mode actuator 131a is an actuator that drives the first rear seat surface sections 131 and the first rear seat foot sections 132, such as Figure 3 As shown, the first rear seat mode actuator 131a is controlled by the air conditioning ECU 80. The first rear seat mode actuator 131a controls the first rear seat airflow mode of the first air conditioning unit 120. The first rear seat airflow mode includes, for example, a first rear seat face mode and a first rear seat foot mode.

[0067] The first rear seat face mode is a blowing mode in which the first rear seat face section 131 is open and the first rear seat foot section 132 is closed. The first rear seat foot mode is a blowing mode in which the first rear seat foot section 132 is open and the first rear seat face section 131 is closed.

[0068] The first rear seat airflow mode can switch airflow modes independently of the first front seat airflow mode. That is, the first air conditioning unit 120 can operate in a mode that freely combines one of the three first front seat airflow modes with one of the two first rear seat airflow modes.

[0069] One end of the first rear seat facial tube 136 is connected to the first rear seat facial opening 121h, such as Figure 1As shown, the first rear seat face air outlet 136a, which is the other end, opens in the space partition wall 6 at a position opposite to the back of the rear seat 4. Air from the first rear seat ventilation passage 121ab passes through the first rear seat face opening 121h, and after passing through the first rear seat face duct 136, it is blown out from the first rear seat face air outlet 136a into the second space S2. The air blown out from the first rear seat face air outlet 136a mainly flows towards or around the upper body and thighs of the rear seat occupant 5 seated in the rear seat 4.

[0070] One end of the first rear seat foot tube 137 is connected to the first rear seat foot opening 121k, such as Figure 1 As shown, the first rear seat footwell air outlet 137a, at the other end, opens in the space partition wall 6 opposite to the footwell space in front of the seat cushion of the rear seat 4. Air from the first rear seat ventilation passage 121ab, passing through the first rear seat footwell opening 121k, passes through the first rear seat footwell duct 137 and is then blown out from the first rear seat footwell air outlet 137a into the second space S2. The air blown out from the first rear seat footwell air outlet 137a flows toward and around the left and right feet of the rear seat occupant 5 seated in the rear seat 4.

[0071] Thus, the first front seat face air outlet 133a, the first front seat foot air outlet 134a, the defrost air outlet 135a, the first rear seat face air outlet 136a, and the first rear seat foot air outlet 137a open at different locations inside the vehicle.

[0072] The first air conditioning unit 120 can regulate the air inside the vehicle by using air conditioning air blown out from vents that open at different locations, thereby affecting the temperature sensation of the body parts of the front seat occupant 3 and the rear seat occupant 5. Specifically, the first air conditioning unit 120 can regulate the air in the first space S1 by using air conditioning air blown out from the first front seat face vent 133a, and has the greatest impact on the temperature sensation of the upper body part of the front seat occupant 3. In addition, the first air conditioning unit 120 can regulate the air in the first space S1 by using air conditioning air blown out from the first front seat foot vent 134a, and has the greatest impact on the temperature sensation of the left and right lower legs of the front seat occupant 3.

[0073] Furthermore, the first air conditioning unit 120 can regulate the air in the second space S2 by using the air conditioning air blown out from the first rear seat face air outlet 136a, and has the greatest impact on the warmth of the upper body and thighs of the rear seat occupant 5. In addition, the first air conditioning unit 120 can regulate the air in the second space S2 by using the air conditioning air blown out from the first rear seat foot air outlet 137a, and has the greatest impact on the warmth of the left and right feet of the rear seat occupant 5.

[0074] The air conditioning capacity of the first air conditioning unit 120 for conditioning the air in the first space S1 is greater than its air conditioning capacity for conditioning the air in the second space S2. In other words, the first air conditioning unit 120 is configured such that the air volume of the air conditioning air blown into the first space S1 is greater than the air volume of the air conditioning air blown into the second space S2. Therefore, the first air conditioning unit 120 primarily conditions the air in the first space S1 inside the vehicle. Moreover, the first air conditioning unit 120 assists the second air conditioning unit 140 in conditioning the air in the second space S2.

[0075] In addition, such as Figure 2 As shown, an airflow adjustment plate 138 is installed at the first rear seat face air outlet 136a. The airflow adjustment plate 138 is an airflow adjustment unit that adjusts the direction of the air conditioning air blown from the first rear seat face air outlet 136a into the second space S2. By changing its posture, the airflow adjustment plate 138 changes the direction of the air conditioning air blown from the first rear seat face air outlet 136a to the left-right direction (i.e., the vehicle width direction) and the up-down direction of the vehicle 1. As a result, the airflow adjustment plate 138 can change the body parts of the rear seat occupant 5 that are affected by the temperature sensation caused by the air conditioning air blown from the first air conditioning unit 120. In this embodiment, the airflow adjustment plate 138 functions as an airflow adjustment mechanism.

[0076] Wind direction actuator 138a is an actuator that drives the wind direction adjustment plate 138, such as Figure 3 As shown, the air direction actuator 138a is controlled by the air conditioning ECU 80.

[0077] The second air conditioning unit 140 includes a second air conditioning housing 141, a second indoor / outdoor air switching door 142, a second centrifugal fan 143, a second heater core 144, a second air mixing door 145, a second rear seat surface section 146, and a second rear seat foot section 147. Additionally, the second air conditioning unit 140 includes a second rear seat surface duct 148 and a second rear seat foot duct 149. Furthermore, the second air conditioning unit 140 includes a second indoor / outdoor air actuator 142a, a second fan actuator 143a, a second rear seat air mixing actuator 145a, and a second rear seat mode actuator 146a, etc.

[0078] The second air conditioning housing 141 surrounds a second ventilation duct 141a through which temperature-adjusted air is blown into the vehicle interior. The basic structure of the second air conditioning housing 141 is largely the same as that of the first air conditioning housing 121. However, the second air conditioning housing 141 differs from the first air conditioning housing 121 in that it does not have a component equivalent to the ventilation duct partition wall 121d in the first air conditioning housing 121, and it has fewer openings for blowing air into the vehicle interior than the first air conditioning housing 121.

[0079] Specifically, the second air conditioning housing 141 has a second internal air inlet 141b and a second external air inlet 141c on the upstream side in the airflow direction. In addition, the second air conditioning housing 141 has a second rear seat face opening 141h and a second rear seat foot opening 141k on the downstream side in the airflow direction of the second ventilation passage 141a for blowing air conditioning air from the second ventilation passage 141a to the second space S2.

[0080] The second air conditioning housing 141 adjusts the ratio of indoor air volume to outdoor air volume introduced into the second ventilation path 141a via the second indoor / outdoor air switching door 142. The second indoor / outdoor air actuator 142a is the actuator that drives the second indoor / outdoor air switching door 142, such as... Figure 3 As shown, the second internal and external air actuator 142a is controlled by the air conditioning ECU 80.

[0081] A rear seat mode switching door is provided at the second rear seat front opening 141h and the second rear seat foot opening 141k for opening and closing their respective openings. The rear seat mode switching door is composed of a second rear seat front section 146 and a second rear seat foot section 147. The second rear seat front section 146 opens and closes the second rear seat front opening 141h. The second rear seat foot section 147 opens and closes the second rear seat foot opening 141k.

[0082] The second rear seat mode actuator 146a is an actuator that drives the second rear seat surface sections 146 and the second rear seat foot sections 147, such as Figure 3 As shown, the second rear seat mode actuator 146a is controlled by the air conditioning ECU 80. The second rear seat mode actuator 146a controls the second rear seat airflow mode of the second air conditioning unit 140. The second rear seat airflow modes include, for example, a second rear seat face mode and a second rear seat foot mode.

[0083] The second rear seat face mode is a blowing mode in which the second rear seat face section 146 is open and the second rear seat foot section 147 is closed. The second rear seat foot mode is a blowing mode in which the second rear seat foot section 147 is open and the second rear seat face section 146 is closed. The second rear seat blowing mode can switch blowing modes independently of the first front seat blowing mode and the first rear seat blowing mode.

[0084] Additionally, the second air conditioning housing 141 houses the second centrifugal fan 143, the second heater core 144, and the second air mixing door 145. The basic structure of the second centrifugal fan 143 is the same as that of the first centrifugal fan 123. The basic structure of the second heater core 144 is the same as that of the first front seat heater core 124. The basic structure of the second air mixing door 145 is the same as that of the first front seat air mixing door 125. Therefore, detailed descriptions of the second centrifugal fan 143, the second heater core 144, and the second air mixing door 145 are omitted.

[0085] The second fan actuator 143a is the actuator that drives the second centrifugal fan 143, such as Figure 3 As shown, the second fan actuator 143a is controlled by the air conditioning ECU 80. The second rear seat air mixing actuator 145a is the actuator that drives the second air mixing door 145, as shown... Figure 3 As shown, the second rear seat air mixing actuator 145a is controlled by the air conditioning ECU 80.

[0086] In the second ventilation path 141a, air conditioning air flows from the air mixing space where the air that bypasses the second heater core 144 and the air that passes through the second heater core 144 are mixed to the second rear seat face opening 141h and the second rear seat foot opening 141k.

[0087] One end of the second rear seat facial tube 148 is connected to the second rear seat facial opening 141h, such as Figure 1 As shown, the second rear seat face air outlet 148a, which is the other end, has two openings at the top of the second space S2, opposite to the rear seat 4. Air that has passed through the second ventilation passage 141a and the second rear seat face opening 141h passes through the second rear seat face duct 148 and is then blown out of the second rear seat face air outlet 148a into the second space S2. The air blown out of the second rear seat face air outlet 148a mainly flows toward or around the upper body of the rear seat occupant 5 seated in the rear seat 4.

[0088] One end of the second rear seat foot tube 149 is connected to the second rear seat foot opening 141k, such as Figure 1 As shown, the second rear seat footwell air outlet 149a, at the other end, opens opposite to the footwell space below the seat cushion of the rear seat 4 on the bottom plate forming the second space S2. Air passing through the second rear seat footwell opening 141k from the second ventilation passage 141a passes through the second rear seat footwell duct 149 and is then blown out from the second rear seat footwell air outlet 149a into the second space S2. The air blown out from the second rear seat footwell air outlet 149a flows toward and around the feet of the rear seat occupant 5 seated in the rear seat 4.

[0089] Next, the seat air conditioning unit 40 will be described. The seat air conditioning unit 40 is installed in the rear seat 4 and is a temperature adjustment device that adjusts the temperature of the rear seat occupant 5 by cooling and heating multiple body parts of the occupant 5 seated in the rear seat 4. For example... Figure 1 and Figure 3 As shown, the seat air conditioning unit 40 has a back ventilation channel 41, a back ventilation vent 41a, a back fan 42, a back fan actuator 42a, a seat ventilation channel 43, a seat surface ventilation vent 43a, a seat fan 44, a seat fan actuator 44a, a head heater 45, a back heater 46, and a thigh heater 47.

[0090] The back ventilation duct 41 is an airflow path located inside the backrest of the rear seat 4. One side of the back ventilation duct 41 is connected to the back ventilation vent 41a, and the other side communicates with the space inside the backrest of the rear seat 4. In addition, a back fan 42 is housed in the back ventilation duct 41.

[0091] The rear ventilation vent 41a is located approximately at the center of the backrest of the rear seat 4 in the vertical direction on the front surface of the backrest. In other words, the rear ventilation vent 41a is located in the backrest at a position assumed to be opposite to the back of the rear seat occupant 5 when the rear seat occupant 5 is seated in the rear seat 4.

[0092] The back fan 42 is an electric fan used to generate airflow within the back ventilation duct 41 and blow air drawn in from the back vent 41a into the space inside the backrest of the rear seat 4. The back fan actuator 42a is an actuator that drives the back fan 42, such as... Figure 3 As shown, the rear fan actuator 42a is controlled by the air conditioning ECU 80.

[0093] The seat ventilation passage 43 is an airflow passage provided inside the seat cushion of the rear seat 4. One side of the seat ventilation passage 43 is connected to the seat surface ventilation opening 43a, and the other side communicates with the space on the lower surface side of the seat cushion of the rear seat 4. In addition, a seat fan 44 is housed in the seat ventilation passage 43.

[0094] The seat vent 43a is located approximately at the center of the seat cushion in the front-rear direction on the upper surface of the seat cushion of the rear seat 4. In other words, the seat vent 43a is located in the seat cushion at a position that is assumed to be opposite to the periphery of the buttocks and left and right thighs of the rear seat occupant 5 when the rear seat occupant 5 is seated in the rear seat 4.

[0095] The seat fan 44 is an electric fan used to generate airflow within the seat ventilation passage 43 and blow air drawn in from the seat surface vent 43a into the space on the lower surface side of the seat cushion of the rear seat 4. The seat fan actuator 44a is an actuator that drives the seat fan 44, such as... Figure 3 As shown, the seat fan actuator 44a is controlled by the air conditioning ECU 80.

[0096] The head heater 45 is an electric heater located at the uppermost part of the backrest of the rear seat 4 in the vertical direction, on the front surface side of the backrest.

[0097] The back heater 46 is an electric heater located approximately at the center of the backrest of the rear seat 4 in the vertical direction, on the front surface side of the backrest. The back heater 46 is located around the rear air vent 41a.

[0098] The thigh heater 47 is an electric heater installed on the upper surface of the seat cushion in the rear seat 4. The thigh heater 47 is located around the seat surface vent 43a.

[0099] The head heater 45, back heater 46, and thigh heater 47 control their heat output according to the control signal output from the air conditioning ECU 80.

[0100] When the rear fan 42 is activated, the seat air conditioning unit 40 draws in air from the rear vent 41a around the back of the rear seat occupant 5 seated in the rear seat 4. This primarily cools the back of several body parts of the rear seat occupant 5.

[0101] Additionally, when the seat fan 44 is activated, the seat air conditioning unit 40 draws in air from the seat vent 43a around the buttocks and thighs of the rear seat occupant 5 seated in the rear seat 4. This primarily cools the buttocks and thighs of the rear seat occupant 5.

[0102] The seat air conditioning unit 40 can influence the temperature of the rear seat occupant 5 based on the rotation speed of the back fan 42 and the seat fan 44. Specifically, the faster the rotation speed of the back fan 42 of the seat air conditioning unit 40, the more cooling it provides to the back of the rear seat occupant 5. In addition, the faster the rotation speed of the seat fan 44 of the seat air conditioning unit 40, the more cooling it provides to the buttocks and thighs of the rear seat occupant 5.

[0103] Furthermore, when the head heater 45 of the seat air conditioning unit 40 is activated, the head heater 45 heats up. This primarily warms the neck, one of the various body parts of the rear seat occupant 5. Additionally, when the back heater 46 of the seat air conditioning unit 40 is activated, the back heater 46 heats up. This primarily warms the back, one of the various body parts of the rear seat occupant 5. Furthermore, when the thigh heater 47 of the seat air conditioning unit 40 is activated, the thigh heater 47 heats up. This primarily warms the buttocks and thighs, one of the various body parts of the rear seat occupant 5.

[0104] The seat air conditioning unit 40 can influence the warmth of the rear seat occupant 5 based on the heat output of the head heater 45, back heater 46, and thigh heater 47. Specifically, the more heat output of the head heater 45, the more warmth the rear seat occupant 5's neck receives. Similarly, the more heat output of the back heater 46, the more warmth the rear seat occupant 5's back receives. Furthermore, the more heat output of the thigh heater 47, the more warmth the rear seat occupant 5's buttocks and thighs receive.

[0105] In addition, the back ventilation duct 41, back fan 42, seat ventilation duct 43, seat fan 44, head heater 45, back heater 46, and thigh heater 47 of the seat air conditioning unit 40 can also be replaced with a device that includes Peltier elements for heating and cooling multiple body parts of the rear seat occupant 5.

[0106] The IR sensor 70 is a sensor that acquires infrared radiation emitted from a predetermined shooting range, generates and outputs an image representing the surface temperature of each location within that shooting range as pixel values ​​based on the acquired infrared radiation. The IR sensor 70 consists of a light sensor that illuminates and receives infrared radiation, a microcomputer configured to include storage units such as a CPU, ROM, or RAM, and its peripheral circuitry. The shooting range of the IR sensor 70 includes the rear seat occupant 5 and the area surrounding the rear seat occupant 5 inside the vehicle. Then, the IR sensor 70 detects information related to the temperature sensation of the rear seat occupant 5 based on the image data generated from the images of the rear seat occupant 5 and its surroundings. Furthermore, the ROM and RAM of the IR sensor 70 are composed of non-transient physical storage media.

[0107] In addition, the IR sensor 70 is connected to the air conditioning ECU 80 and is configured to obtain information related to the operation of the air conditioning unit 10 from the air conditioning ECU 80. This information related to the operation of the air conditioning unit 10 includes, for example, the rotational speed of the compressor 111, the rotational speed of the first centrifugal fan 123, the rotational speed of the second centrifugal fan 143, and the target blowing temperature of the air conditioning air blown out by the air conditioning unit 10.

[0108] The IR sensor 70 infers the temperature sensation of each of the multiple body parts of the rear seat occupant 5 by performing various calculations and processing based on temperature information contained in the generated image and a control mapping stored in the storage unit. This control mapping is predetermined based on the expected temperature sensation of each body part of the rear seat occupant 5, the temperature information contained in the generated image, and information related to the operation of the air conditioning unit 10, and can be derived from the results of previously conducted experiments. The IR sensor 70 detects the ambient temperature of the rear seat occupant 5 and outputs the temperature sensation of each of the multiple body parts of the rear seat occupant 5 inferred using the detected ambient temperature as information on the current temperature sensation of each of the multiple body parts of the rear seat occupant 5 to the air conditioning ECU 80. In this embodiment, the IR sensor 70 functions as a temperature sensation detection unit.

[0109] The air conditioning ECU 80 consists of a microcomputer including a CPU, ROM, and RAM, along with its peripheral circuitry. Furthermore, the air conditioning ECU 80 performs various calculations, processes, and controls the operation of various controlled devices connected to its output side based on the air conditioning control program stored in the ROM. In addition, the ROM and RAM of the air conditioning ECU 80 are composed of non-transient physical storage media.

[0110] In addition, such as Figure 3 As shown, the temperature adjustment system includes a first interior air temperature sensor 71, a second interior air temperature sensor 72, an exterior air temperature sensor 73, a sunlight sensor 74, a first setting unit 75, and a second setting unit 76. The first interior air temperature sensor 71 outputs a detection signal to the air conditioning ECU 80 corresponding to the temperature of the air in the first space S1 inside the vehicle (hereinafter referred to as the first interior air temperature FrTr). The second interior air temperature sensor 72 outputs a detection signal to the air conditioning ECU 80 corresponding to the temperature of the air in the second space S2 inside the vehicle (hereinafter referred to as the second interior air temperature RrTr). The exterior air temperature sensor 73 outputs a detection signal to the air conditioning ECU 80 corresponding to the temperature of the air outside the vehicle (hereinafter referred to as the exterior air temperature Tam). The sunlight sensor 74 outputs a detection signal to the air conditioning ECU 80 corresponding to the amount of sunlight Ts illuminating the vehicle interior.

[0111] The first setting unit 75 is a device that receives input operations from the front seat occupant 3. Specifically, the first setting unit 75 is located near an instrument panel (not shown) in the first space S1 and has various operation switches that can be operated individually by the front seat occupant 3. The first setting unit 75 outputs information input through the operation of the front seat occupant 3 to the air conditioning ECU 80.

[0112] Various operating switches provided in the first setting section 75 include, for example, an air conditioning power switch for setting the start or stop of operation of the air conditioning unit 10, and an automatic switch for setting or deactivating the automatic control operation of the air conditioning unit 10. Additionally, various operating switches include temperature setting switches for separately setting the first target temperature FrTset of the first space S1 and the second target temperature RrTset of the second space S2 within the vehicle interior, and mode selection switches for selecting the operating mode of the air conditioning unit 10.

[0113] The second setting unit 76 is a device that receives input operations from the rear seat occupant 5. Specifically, the second setting unit 76 is disposed in a center console (not shown) located between the two rear seats 4 in the second space S2, and has various operation switches that can be operated individually by the rear seat occupant 5. The second setting unit 76 outputs information input through the operation of the rear seat occupant 5 to the air conditioning ECU 80.

[0114] As various operating switches provided in the second setting section 76, there are, for example, an air conditioning power switch for setting the start or stop of operation of the air conditioning unit 10, and an automatic switch for setting or deactivating the automatic control operation of the air conditioning unit 10. In addition, there are temperature setting switches for setting the second target temperature RrTset of the second space S2 inside the vehicle, and mode selection switches for selecting the operating mode of the air conditioning unit 10.

[0115] Among the various operating switches are a correction switch for setting the target temperature for the rear seat occupants 5, and a seat air conditioning power switch for setting the start or stop of the seat air conditioning unit 40. Additionally, among the various operating switches are an automatic switch for setting or deactivating the automatic control operation of the seat air conditioning unit 40, and a temperature setting switch for setting the target seat temperature STset for the rear seats 4.

[0116] The operation of starting or stopping the air conditioning unit 10, setting or deactivating automatic control, selecting the operating mode, and setting the second target temperature RrTset can all be performed through either the first setting unit 75 or the second setting unit 76. However, setting the first target temperature FrTset of the first space S1 cannot be performed through the second setting unit 76, but only through the first setting unit 75. Furthermore, setting the target temperature for the rear seat occupant 5, starting or stopping the seat air conditioning unit 40, setting or deactivating automatic control, and setting the seat target temperature STset cannot be performed through the first setting unit 75, but only through the second setting unit 76.

[0117] The air conditioning ECU 80 can switch the operation of the temperature adjustment system to different operating modes based on the operation of the mode selection switch of the first setting unit 75 and the mode selection switch of the second setting unit 76. Specifically, the air conditioning ECU 80 can switch the operating mode to one of the following modes based on the operation of the first setting unit 75 and the second setting unit 76: default mode, relaxation mode, and focus mode. Furthermore, when the air conditioning ECU 80 is set to the default mode based on the operation of the first setting unit 75 and the second setting unit 76, it can set the operating mode to either the summer default mode or the winter default mode based on the external environment.

[0118] The summer default mode is primarily designed for use during the hot summer months and is a mode for cooling the vehicle interior. As described later, in summer default mode, the temperature adjustment system cools the entire second space S2 and the body parts of the rear seat occupant 5 to bring the temperature of the rear seat occupant 5 closer to the target temperature.

[0119] The winter default mode is primarily used in winter when temperatures are low, and it is the mode for heating the vehicle interior. As will be described later, in the winter default mode, the temperature adjustment system heats the entire second space S2 and heats the body parts of the rear seat occupant 5 to make the temperature of the rear seat occupant 5 close to the target temperature.

[0120] The relaxation mode is designed to calm the mind of the rear-seat occupant 5. As described later, in relaxation mode, the temperature adjustment system adjusts the overall air quality of the second space S2 and the temperature of the rear-seat occupant 5's body parts to bring the rear-seat occupant 5's temperature closer to the target temperature in order to put the rear-seat occupant 5 into a relaxed state.

[0121] The focus mode is designed to keep the rear-seat occupant 5 alert. As described later, in focus mode, the temperature adjustment system adjusts the overall air quality of the second space S2 and the temperature of the rear-seat occupant 5's body parts to improve the rear-seat occupant 5's concentration, so that the rear-seat occupant 5's temperature is close to the target temperature.

[0122] When the air conditioning ECU80 is set to one of the following operating modes: summer default mode, winter default mode, relaxation mode, or focus mode, it controls various components of the temperature adjustment system to make the temperature sensation of the rear seat occupant 5 approach the target temperature sensation. The target temperature sensation is data representing multiple target values ​​of temperature sensation for multiple body parts of the rear seat occupant 5.

[0123] In each operating mode, it has the ability to Figures 4-7 Each operating mode shown represents a different baseline temperature distribution. For example... Figure 1 As shown, when the rear seat occupant 5 is divided into four regions along the vertical direction: head region A1, chest region A2, leg region A3, and foot region A4, the temperature distribution that serves as the reference is preset in the air conditioning ECU 80 according to each of these regions.

[0124] Head region A1 includes the head and neck, one of the multiple body parts of the rear seat occupant 5. Chest region A2 includes the chest and torso, one of the multiple body parts of the rear seat occupant 5. Leg region A3 includes the thighs, one of the multiple body parts of the rear seat occupant 5. Foot region A4 includes the lower legs and feet, one of the multiple body parts of the rear seat occupant 5.

[0125] Here, the values ​​for the sensation of warmth as felt by a person are set as follows: feeling very cold is "-5", feeling cold is "-4", feeling slightly cold is "-3", feeling cool is "-2", and feeling slightly cool is "-1". Additionally, the values ​​for the sensation of warmth as felt by a person are set as follows: feeling very hot is "+5", feeling hot is "+4", feeling slightly hot is "+3", feeling warm is "+2", and feeling slightly warm is "+1". Furthermore, the value for the sensation of warmth that is neither warm nor cold is set to "0".

[0126] The temperature distribution that serves as the reference for each operating mode is set in the head area A1, chest area A2, leg area A3, and foot area A4, with values ​​ranging from "-2" to "+2" indicating the temperature that the rear-seat occupant 5 would find comfortable. Hereinafter, the reference values ​​for the temperature that a typical rear-seat occupant 5 would find comfortable in each area will also be referred to as the temperature reference values.

[0127] Among the body parts corresponding to each area, the warmer the rear-seat occupant 5 feels comfortably warm, the higher the baseline value for warmth. Conversely, among the body parts corresponding to each area, the cooler the rear-seat occupant 5 feels comfortably warm, the lower the baseline value for warmth. Furthermore, in... Figures 4-7 In the middle, the range of the temperature reference value in each area is marked with a dotted pattern of shaded area.

[0128] The distribution of temperature reference values ​​for each operating mode is generated as a distribution of temperature that assumes the rear-seat occupant 5 feels comfortable under that operating mode. Moreover, the distribution of these temperature reference values ​​is determined in advance through experiments as a distribution that evenly satisfies a large number of unspecified occupants. By generating it in this way, if the distribution of temperature reference values ​​for a certain mode is realized, the body parts corresponding to each area of ​​the rear-seat occupant 5 can easily feel comfortable.

[0129] Specifically, such as Figure 4 As shown, the default summer mode's temperature reference value is set so that rear-seat occupants 5 can feel a cool temperature across the head area A1, chest area A2, leg area A3, and foot area A4. Furthermore, the default summer mode's temperature reference value is set as follows: head area A1 is set to a range of -2 to -1, which is cooler compared to other areas; while chest area A2, leg area A3, and foot area A4 are set to a range of -1 to 0, which is larger than the value for head area A1.

[0130] The rationale for setting the distribution of the temperature reference values ​​in this way is that by implementing a so-called "head-cooling, feet-warming" system, which cools the head and warms the feet, the comfort of the rear seat occupant 5 can be improved. Additionally, this is because the temperature of the air in the upper part of the vehicle interior tends to rise more easily due to radiant heat from the windows, which are warmed by sunlight; therefore, it is necessary to provide a cooler temperature sensation to the upper parts of the rear seat occupant 5's body.

[0131] Moreover, the temperature reference value of this default summer mode is generally the temperature distribution that people feel comfortable with when the car interior is cooled.

[0132] like Figure 5As shown, the default winter mode's warmth reference value is set for the head area A1, chest area A2, leg area A3, and foot area A4 as a total warmth level that allows the rear seat occupant 5 to feel warm. Furthermore, the warmth reference values ​​for the head area A1, chest area A2, and leg area A3 are set to a range of "0 to +1". The warmth reference value for the foot area A4 is set to a range of "+1 to +2". Thus, the default winter mode's warmth reference value is set so that the foot area A4 provides a warmer feeling compared to other areas.

[0133] The reason for setting the temperature reference value distribution in this way is that, similar to the default summer mode, by implementing a so-called "head-cooling, feet-warming" system that cools the head and warms the feet, the comfort of the rear seat occupant 5 can be well maintained. Furthermore, this is also because even if the temperature around the head of the rear seat occupant 5 rises due to the increased air temperature in the upper part of the cabin caused by heating, discomfort to the head of the rear seat occupant 5 is avoided.

[0134] Moreover, the temperature reference value of the default winter mode is generally the temperature distribution that people feel comfortable with when the car interior is heated.

[0135] like Figure 6 As shown, the baseline value for warmth in the relaxation mode is set across the head area A1, chest area A2, leg area A3, and foot area A4 to provide a warm feeling for the rear seat occupant 5. Furthermore, the baseline value for warmth in the relaxation mode is set to the same value across all four areas, within the range of +1 to +2.

[0136] like Figure 7 As shown, the warmth reference value for the Focus Mode is set such that the rear seat occupant 5 experiences a cool warmth in the head area A1 and chest area A2, and a warm warmth in the leg area A3 and foot area A4. Furthermore, the warmth reference value for the Focus Mode is set such that the warmth value increases in the order of head area A1, chest area A2, leg area A3, and foot area A4. Specifically, the warmth reference value for the Focus Mode is set as follows: head area A1 is set to a range of -2 to -1; chest area A2 is set to a range of -1 to 0; leg area A3 is set to a range of 0 to +1; and foot area A4 is set to a range of +1 to +2.

[0137] Thus, the temperature reference value for each operating mode is individually set to a value that corresponds to the area of ​​comfort for the head region A1, chest region A2, leg region A3, and foot region A4, respectively. However, the temperature that the rear-seat occupant 5 finds comfortable in the head region A1, chest region A2, leg region A3, and foot region A4 varies depending on the external environment and the desired mental state of the rear-seat occupant 5. In this embodiment, the temperature reference value for each operating mode is individually set to a value that corresponds to the area of ​​comfort for the head region A1, chest region A2, leg region A3, and foot region A4, varying depending on the external environment and the desired mental state of the rear-seat occupant 5.

[0138] Furthermore, by inputting the correction switch, the target temperature value for each operating mode can be corrected from the temperature reference value to the desired value. Specifically, based on the operation of the correction switch, the target temperature value for one or more selected areas among the head area A1, chest area A2, leg area A3, and foot area A4 in each operating mode is individually corrected from the temperature reference value to either the negative or positive side.

[0139] Based on the structure of the aforementioned temperature adjustment system, the air conditioning unit 10 and the seat air conditioning unit 40 are configured to change the temperature sensation of each body part of the rear seat occupant 5 in each operating mode. The first air conditioning unit 120, the second air conditioning unit 140, and the seat air conditioning unit 40 of the air conditioning unit 10 can be independently adjusted in terms of output via the air conditioning ECU 80.

[0140] Furthermore, the air conditioning unit 10 can adjust the temperature and airflow of the air conditioning air delivered to the vehicle interior by the first air conditioning unit 120 and the second air conditioning unit 140 independently of the seat air conditioning unit 40 via the air conditioning ECU 80. Moreover, by changing the blowing mode of the first air conditioning unit 120 and the second air conditioning unit 140 via the air conditioning ECU 80, the outlet from which the air conditioning air is blown can be switched.

[0141] Furthermore, the air conditioning ECU 80 can adjust the direction of the air blown from the first rear seat face air outlet 136a by controlling the orientation of the airflow adjustment plate 138. Additionally, the seat air conditioning unit 40 can independently adjust the heat output of the head heater 45, back heater 46, and thigh heater 47 via the air conditioning ECU 80, independent of the operation of the first air conditioning unit 120 and the second air conditioning unit 140. Moreover, the seat air conditioning unit 40 can independently adjust the speed of the back fan 42 and the seat fan 44 via the air conditioning ECU 80, independent of the operation of the first air conditioning unit 120 and the second air conditioning unit 140.

[0142] Thus, for example, the warmth of the rear seat occupant 5 can be adjusted for each body part in a way that makes the warmth of multiple body parts of the rear seat occupant 5 approach the target warmth.

[0143] Next, refer to Figures 8-13 The operation of the temperature and heat adjustment system controlled by the air conditioning ECU80 of this embodiment will be explained. Figure 8 As shown, the air conditioning ECU 80 includes a first air conditioning control unit 81, a second air conditioning control unit 82, a target setting unit 83, and a temperature adjustment unit for the off-center area 84. When the automatic switch to start the automatic control operation of the air conditioning unit 10 is turned on, the air conditioning ECU 80 functions as the first air conditioning control unit 81, the second air conditioning control unit 82, the target setting unit 83, and the temperature adjustment unit for the off-center area 84 by executing the air conditioning control program. Alternatively, the air conditioning ECU 80 may also include multiple circuit components that correspond one-to-one with the first air conditioning control unit 81, the second air conditioning control unit 82, the target setting unit 83, and the temperature adjustment unit for the off-center area 84.

[0144] The functions of the first air conditioning control unit 81, the second air conditioning control unit 82, the target setting unit 83, and the temperature adjustment unit 84 for the away part will be explained below. First, the first air conditioning control unit 81 will be explained. When the temperature and heat sensing adjustment system adjusts the temperature and heat sensing of the front seat occupant 3 existing in the first space S1, the first air conditioning control unit 81 calculates the target temperature of the air conditioning air blown by the first air conditioning unit 120 toward the first space S1.

[0145] The first air conditioning control unit 81 calculates the first target blowing temperature FrTAO of the air conditioning air blown by the first air conditioning device 120 into the first space S1 according to the following mathematical formula 1, based on the detection signals of various sensors input to the air conditioning ECU 80.

[0146] (Mathematical Formula 1)

[0147] FrTAO=Kset×FrTset-Kr×FrTr-Kam×Tam-Ks×Ts+C

[0148] Here, FrTset is the target temperature of the first space S1 set by the temperature setting switch. FrTr is the temperature of the first space S1 detected by the first interior air temperature sensor 71. Tam is the temperature outside the vehicle body detected by the exterior air temperature sensor 73. Ts is the amount of sunlight detected by the sunlight sensor 74. Kset, Kr, Kam, and Ks are control gains, and C is a correction constant.

[0149] Thus, the air conditioning ECU80 determines the first target blowing temperature FrTAO based on information about the indoor and outdoor environments, such as the first interior air temperature FrTr, the outside air temperature Tam, and the amount of sunlight Ts, as well as the first target temperature FrTset. Then, as... Figure 9 As shown, the air conditioning ECU80 controls the operation of various components of the first air conditioning unit 120 based on the first target blowout temperature FrTAO.

[0150] Next, the second air conditioning control unit 82 will be described. When the temperature and heat adjustment system adjusts the temperature and heat of the rear seat occupant 5 existing in the second space S2, the second air conditioning control unit 82 calculates the target temperature of the air conditioning air blown by the second air conditioning unit 140 toward the second space S2.

[0151] However, as described above, the temperature adjustment system of this embodiment is configured to adjust the temperature of the rear seat occupant 5 in a manner that makes the temperature of multiple body parts of the rear seat occupant 5 approach the target temperature. In other words, when adjusting the temperature of the rear seat occupant 5, the temperature adjustment system of this embodiment can adjust the temperature of the rear seat occupant 5 taking into account the distribution of the temperature of the rear seat occupant 5.

[0152] To illustrate the effect of adjusting the temperature of the rear seat occupants 5 considering the distribution of their temperature sensations, we will first explain the case where the temperature adjustment system does not consider the distribution of their temperature sensations. In this case, the second air conditioning control unit 82 calculates the second target blowing temperature RrTAO of the air conditioning air blown into the second space S2 by the temperature adjustment system according to the following mathematical formula 2, based on the detection signals from various sensors input to the air conditioning ECU 80. The calculated second target blowing temperature RrTAO is the target temperature of the air conditioning air blown into the second space S2 by the first air conditioning unit 120 and the second air conditioning unit 140.

[0153] (Mathematical Formula 2)

[0154] RrTAO=Kset×RrTset-Kr×RrTr-Kam×Tam-Ks×Ts+C

[0155] Here, RrTset is the target temperature of the second space S2 set by the temperature setting switch. RrTr is the temperature of the second space S2 detected by the second interior air temperature sensor 72. Tam is the temperature outside the vehicle body detected by the exterior air temperature sensor 73. Ts is the amount of sunlight detected by the sunlight sensor 74. Kset, Kr, Kam, and Ks are control gains, and C is a correction constant.

[0156] Thus, the air conditioning ECU80 determines the second target blowing temperature RrTAO based on information about the indoor and outdoor environments, such as the second interior air temperature RrTr, the outside air temperature Tam, and the amount of sunlight Ts, as well as the second target temperature RrTset. Then, as... Figure 9 As shown, it is assumed that the air conditioning ECU80 controls the operation of various components of the first air conditioning unit 120 and the second air conditioning unit 140 based on the second target blowout temperature RrTAO.

[0157] Next, the hypothetical operation of the various constituent devices of the first air conditioning unit 120, the second air conditioning unit 140, and the seat air conditioning unit 40 when determining the first target air outlet temperature FrTAO and the second target air outlet temperature RrTAO will be explained.

[0158] The air conditioning ECU 80 determines the first front seat airflow mode of the first air conditioning unit 120 based on the first target airflow temperature FrTAO calculated by the first air conditioning control unit 81. Then, the air conditioning ECU 80 controls the operation of the first front seat mode actuator 126a so that the air conditioning air is blown out from the air outlet corresponding to the determined first front seat airflow mode.

[0159] Furthermore, the air conditioning ECU 80 determines the first rear seat airflow mode of the first air conditioning unit 120 based on the second target airflow temperature RrTAO calculated by the second air conditioning control unit 82. Then, the air conditioning ECU 80 controls the operation of the first rear seat mode actuator 131a so that the air conditioning air is blown out from the air outlet corresponding to the determined first rear seat airflow mode.

[0160] The air conditioning ECU 80 also determines the second rear seat airflow mode of the second air conditioning unit 140 based on the second target airflow temperature RrTAO calculated by the second air conditioning control unit 82. Then, the air conditioning ECU 80 controls the operation of the second rear seat mode actuator 146a so that the air conditioning air is blown out from the air outlet corresponding to the determined second rear seat airflow mode.

[0161] Then, the air conditioning ECU 80 controls the operation of the compressor 111 and the first indoor / outdoor air actuator 122a to make the temperature of the air conditioning air blown out from the outlet corresponding to the determined first front seat air blowing mode close to the first target blowing temperature FrTAO. The air conditioning ECU 80 also controls the operation of the first fan actuator 123a and the first front seat air mixing actuator 125a to make the temperature of the air conditioning air close to the first target blowing temperature FrTAO.

[0162] In addition, the air conditioning ECU 80 controls the operation of the compressor 111 to ensure that the temperature of the air conditioning air blown from the outlet corresponding to the determined first rear seat airflow mode and the outlet corresponding to the determined second rear seat airflow mode is close to the second target airflow temperature RrTAO. The air conditioning ECU 80 also controls the operation of the first indoor / outdoor air actuator 122a, the first fan actuator 123a, and the first rear seat air mixing actuator 130a to ensure that the temperature of the air conditioning air is close to the second target airflow temperature RrTAO. Furthermore, the air conditioning ECU 80 controls the operation of the second indoor / outdoor air actuator 142a, the second fan actuator 143a, and the second rear seat air mixing actuator 145a to ensure that the temperature of the air conditioning air is close to the second target airflow temperature RrTAO.

[0163] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the compressor 111 of the air conditioning unit 10, which together forms a refrigeration cycle with the first evaporator 115 housed in the first air conditioning unit 120, and the second evaporator 116 housed in the second air conditioning unit 140, form a refrigeration cycle. Therefore, the air conditioning ECU 80 controls various components of the air conditioning unit 10 to make the air conditioning air blown into the first space S1 approach the first target blowing temperature FrTAO, and to make the air conditioning air blown into the second space S2 approach the second target blowing temperature RrTAO.

[0164] Furthermore, the first air conditioning unit 120 adjusts the temperature of the front seat occupant 3 while simultaneously regulating the air in the first space S1 by blowing air from an outlet corresponding to the determined first front seat airflow mode. Additionally, the first air conditioning unit 120 adjusts the temperature of the rear seat occupant 5 while simultaneously regulating the air in the second space S2 by blowing air from an outlet corresponding to the determined first rear seat airflow mode.

[0165] Furthermore, the second air conditioning unit 140 adjusts the air conditioning in the second space S2 and the heat sensation of the rear seat occupants 5 by blowing air conditioning air from the outlet corresponding to the determined second rear seat blowing mode.

[0166] Furthermore, when the seat air conditioning power switch is turned on, the seat air conditioning unit 40 starts operating based on the second interior air temperature RrTr and the seat target temperature STset. For example, if the second interior air temperature RrTr is higher than the seat target temperature STset, the air conditioning ECU 80 activates the back fan actuator 42a and the seat fan actuator 44a. Conversely, if the second interior air temperature RrTr is lower than the seat target temperature STset, the air conditioning ECU 80 activates the head heater 45, the back heater 46, and the thigh heater 47.

[0167] In this case, the air conditioning in the second space S2 and the temperature of the rear seat occupants 5 were adjusted without considering the temperature distribution of the rear seat occupants 5, referring to Figure 10 This describes the warmth provided to the rear seat occupants.

[0168] The following describes the case where the temperature adjustment system adjusts the temperature of the rear seat occupant 5 in summer without considering temperature sensation. For example, the first air conditioning unit 120 blows air from the first rear seat face air outlet 136a into the second space S2, with the temperature adjusted to be close to the second target air outlet temperature RrTAO. Similarly, the second air conditioning unit 140 blows air from the second rear seat face air outlet 148a into the second space S2, with the temperature adjusted to be close to the second target air outlet temperature RrTAO. Furthermore, the seat air conditioning unit 40 draws in air from the rear air vent 41a and the seat surface air vent 43a.

[0169] Thus, as Figure 10 As shown, when the first air conditioning unit 120 and the second air conditioning unit 140 blow temperature-adjusted air conditioning air into the second space S2, the overall temperature of the second space S2 is adjusted to be close to the second target temperature RrTset. Then, the seat air conditioning unit 40 activates the back fan 42 and the seat fan 44 as needed to cool the back, buttocks and thighs of the rear seat occupant 5.

[0170] In this situation, the temperature adjustment system tends to provide most body parts of the rear-seat occupant 5 with the same temperature reference value, but struggles to provide certain body parts with the same temperature reference value. Specifically, the temperature adjustment system tends to provide a comfortable temperature to the chest area A2, leg area A3, and foot area A4, but tends to provide a higher temperature to the head area A1 than the comfortable temperature. Therefore, it is difficult to provide the head area A1 with the same temperature reference value.

[0171] This is because, in a method of blowing air conditioning into the second space S2 without considering the distribution of warmth felt by the rear-seat occupant 5, the radiant heat from the windows, which are warmed by sunlight, makes it difficult to provide a comfortable warmth to the upper part of the rear-seat occupant 5, namely the head area A1. In this case, the head and neck of the rear-seat occupant 5 may experience discomfort.

[0172] Furthermore, the method for adjusting the temperature of the rear seat occupant 5 without considering temperature sensitivity in winter will be explained. For example, the first air conditioning unit 120 blows air from the first rear seat footwell outlet 137a into the second space S2, with the temperature adjusted to be close to the second target outlet temperature RrTAO. Additionally, the second air conditioning unit 140 blows air from the second rear seat footwell outlet 149a into the second space S2, with the temperature adjusted to be close to the second target outlet temperature RrTAO. Furthermore, the seat air conditioning unit 40 activates the head heater 45, back heater 46, and thigh heater 47 as needed.

[0173] Thus, as Figure 10 As shown, when the first air conditioning unit 120 and the second air conditioning unit 140 blow temperature-adjusted air conditioning air into the second space S2, the overall temperature of the second space S2 is adjusted to be close to the second target temperature RrTset. Then, the seat air conditioning unit 40 heats the neck, back, buttocks and thighs of the rear seat occupant 5.

[0174] When the second target blowing temperature RrTAO is the specified temperature, the warmth adjustment system easily provides a comfortable warmth to the head region A1 and chest region A2, but easily provides a lower warmth to the leg region A3 and foot region A4 than a comfortable warmth. Therefore, it is difficult to provide the leg region A3 and foot region A4 with the same warmth as the warmth reference value. Here, the specified temperature is set to a temperature that provides a comfortable warmth to the head region A1 and chest region A2.

[0175] This is because if the second target airflow temperature RrTAO is set to a predetermined temperature to achieve a target warmth sensation in the head area A1 and chest area A2, the upper part of the cabin tends to be filled with warmer air, while the lower part tends to be filled with cooler air. In this case, the lower body of the rear seat occupant 5 may experience discomfort.

[0176] Furthermore, if the second target blowing temperature RrTAO is set to a temperature higher than the specified temperature to provide a comfortable warmth to the leg area A3 and foot area A4, the warmth adjustment system easily provides a comfortable warmth to the leg area A3 and foot area A4. However, in this case, the warmth adjustment system tends to provide a higher warmth to the head area A1 and chest area A2 than a comfortable warmth, making it difficult to provide the head area A1 and chest area A2 with the same warmth as the warmth reference value.

[0177] This is because if the second target airflow temperature RrTAO is set to a temperature higher than the specified temperature and the air in the second space S2 is conditioned, the air on the upper side of the cabin will be heated to a temperature higher than the required temperature. In this case, the upper body of the rear seat occupant 5 may experience discomfort.

[0178] Thus, in a method that blows air conditioning into the second space S2 without considering the distribution of heat sensation of the rear seat occupants 5, and adjusts the overall temperature of the second space S2 to be close to the second target temperature RrTset, it is difficult to make the various body parts of the rear seat occupants 5 feel comfortable individually.

[0179] In this embodiment, the temperature adjustment system adjusts the temperature of the rear seat occupants 5 by considering the distribution of their temperature sensations, thereby providing a comfortable temperature sensation to multiple body parts of the rear seat occupants 5. The processing performed by the air conditioning ECU 80 when the temperature adjustment system adjusts the temperature of the rear seat occupants 5 by considering their temperature sensation distribution will be explained below.

[0180] In order to set the temperature distribution of the target, the target setting unit 83 performs the following processing. First, the target setting unit 83 selects the operating mode based on the operation of the mode selection switch of the first setting unit 75 or the second setting unit 76.

[0181] Specifically, the target setting unit 83 selects a mode from the default mode, relaxation mode, and focus mode based on the operation of the mode selection switch of the first setting unit 75 or the second setting unit 76. Then, when the default mode is set, the target setting unit 83 selects an operating mode from the summer default mode and the winter default mode by referring to a control mapping diagram predetermined based on the outside air temperature Tam and the solar radiation Ts.

[0182] Then, the target setting unit 83 refers to the temperature sensitivity reference value corresponding to the selected operating mode and determines the temperature sensitivity value of the assumed target for each of the head region A1, chest region A2, leg region A3, and foot region A4 in that operating mode. Hereinafter, the temperature sensitivity of the assumed target will also be referred to as the assumed target SET*.

[0183] Then, when the second setting unit 76 receives input from the directed correction switch, the target setting unit 83 determines the correction value for the assumed target SET*.

[0184] When a correction operation is performed on one of the following regions—head region A1, chest region A2, leg region A3, and foot region A4—using the correction switch, the target setting unit 83 determines a correction value for the assumed target SET* of the selected region. Furthermore, when multiple regions—head region A1, chest region A2, leg region A3, and foot region A4—are corrected using the correction switch, the target setting unit 83 determines a correction value for the assumed target SET* of each of the multiple regions selected based on the operation.

[0185] Then, the target setting unit 83 determines the warmth sensation of the target in the head region A1, chest region A2, leg region A3, and foot region A4 as the target SET* based on the assumed target SET* and the determined correction value. Specifically, the target setting unit 83 adds or subtracts the correction value of each region from all the assumed target SET* in the head region A1, chest region A2, leg region A3, and foot region A4 to determine the target SET*.

[0186] Furthermore, without input to the correction switch, the target setting unit 83 assumes that the value of target SET* is determined as the target SET* for each of the head region A1, chest region A2, leg region A3, and foot region A4.

[0187] Here, we will explain SET*. SET* is a temperature index known as the New Standard Effective Temperature. SET* is calculated considering six factors: ambient temperature, humidity, radiation, and airflow; and human metabolism and clothing levels. In SET*, the ASHRAE standard environment is defined. When a person moves from a real environment to this standard environment, the temperature of that standard environment that they perceive as identical to the actual environment is the SET* of that actual environment. Details of SET* are well-known technology and therefore omitted. SET* has a one-to-one correspondence with the distribution of thermal sensitivity reference values, indicating thermal sensitivity. Therefore, SET* is also an index representing thermal sensitivity.

[0188] In this way, the temperature sensing adjustment system of this embodiment can change the temperature sensing reference value for each operating mode and set the target temperature sensing distribution to the desired value.

[0189] Next, the second air conditioning control unit 82 will be described. The second air conditioning control unit 82 calculates the second target blow-out temperature RrTAO by performing the following process. First, the second air conditioning control unit 82 selects the operating mode based on the operation of the mode selection switch of the first setting unit 75 or the second setting unit 76, using the same method as described in the operation of the target setting unit 83.

[0190] Then, the second air conditioning control unit 82 reads the second target temperature RrTset set by the operation of the temperature setting switch. In addition, the second air conditioning control unit 82 reads the second interior air temperature RrTr, the outside air temperature Tam, and the solar radiation Ts detected by the second interior air temperature sensor 72, the outside air temperature sensor 73, and the solar radiation sensor 74.

[0191] Then, the second air conditioning control unit 82 reads the temperature sensation deviation amount Dt for each of the head region A1, chest region A2, leg region A3, and foot region A4 calculated by the temperature sensation deviation calculation unit 84a (described later). The temperature sensation deviation amount Dt is the deviation of the rear seat occupant 5's current temperature sensation relative to the target SET*.

[0192] The second air conditioning control unit 82 calculates the assumed second target air outlet temperature VRrTAO based on the second target temperature RrTset, the second indoor air temperature RrTr, the outdoor air temperature Tam, and the solar radiation Ts. Specifically, the second air conditioning control unit 82 first calculates the assumed second target air outlet temperature VRrTAO according to the following mathematical formula 3.

[0193] (Mathematical Formula 3)

[0194] VRrTAO=Kset×RrTset-Kr×RrTr-Kam×Tam-Ks×Ts+C

[0195] Here, RrTset is the target temperature of the second space S2 set by the temperature setting switch. RrTr is the temperature of the second space S2 detected by the second interior air temperature sensor 72. Tam is the temperature outside the vehicle body detected by the exterior air temperature sensor 73. Ts is the amount of sunlight detected by the sunlight sensor 74. Kset, Kr, Kam, and Ks are control gains, and C is a constant used for correction.

[0196] Then, the second air conditioning control unit 82 sets the second target air outlet temperature RrTAO based on the assumed second target air outlet temperature VRrTAO and the temperature deviation amount Dt. The second target air outlet temperature RrTAO is set so that the temperature sensation of the part corresponding to the area with the largest temperature deviation amount Dt among the head area A1, chest area A2, leg area A3, and foot area A4 is close to the target SET*.

[0197] For example, if the temperature deviation Dt in the region with the largest temperature deviation is positive, then to increase the temperature perceived, the second target blowing temperature RrTAO is set to a temperature higher than the assumed second target blowing temperature VRrTAO. Conversely, if the temperature deviation Dt in the region with the largest temperature deviation is negative, then to decrease the temperature perceived, the second target blowing temperature RrTAO is set to a temperature lower than the assumed second target blowing temperature VRrTAO.

[0198] Next, the temperature adjustment unit 84 for the separation area will be described. The temperature adjustment unit 84 for the separation area includes a temperature-sensing separation calculation unit 84a, a wind direction determination unit 84b, and a FrRrTAO calculation unit 84c. The temperature adjustment unit 84 for the separation area functions as the temperature-sensing separation calculation unit 84a, the wind direction determination unit 84b, and the FrRrTAO calculation unit 84c by executing a predetermined program. Alternatively, the temperature adjustment unit 84 for the separation area may also include multiple circuit components corresponding one-to-one with the temperature-sensing separation calculation unit 84a, the wind direction determination unit 84b, and the FrRrTAO calculation unit 84c.

[0199] Temperature adjustment unit 84 of the off-center part Figure 11 The process shown calculates the direction and volume of the air conditioning air blown by the first air conditioning unit 120 into the second space S2, as well as the third target blowing temperature FrRrTAO. The third target blowing temperature FrRrTAO is the target temperature of the air conditioning air blown by the first air conditioning unit 120 into the second space S2.

[0200] First, in step S10, the temperature difference calculation unit 84a calculates the difference between the current temperature sensation (SET*) of the rear seat occupant 5 and the target SET* determined by the target setting unit 83, based on the detection signal from the IR sensor 70. The temperature difference calculation unit 84a subtracts the current SET* from the target SET* in the same area of ​​each of the head region A1, chest region A2, leg region A3, and foot region A4.

[0201] The result is that, in each of the head region A1, chest region A2, leg region A3, and foot region A4, the amount of thermal sensation divergence Dt, which is the amount by which the target SET* deviates from the current SET*, is calculated. Additionally, the locations of the various body parts of the rear-seat occupant 5 corresponding to the region where the target SET* deviates from the current SET* are thermal sensation divergence locations.

[0202] In step S12, the temperature deviation calculation unit 84a calculates the maximum deviation value Dmax, which is the maximum absolute value of the temperature deviation amount Dt in each of the head region A1, chest region A2, leg region A3, and foot region A4. Then, the temperature deviation calculation unit 84a selects the region in the head region A1, chest region A2, leg region A3, and foot region A4 where the temperature deviation amount Dt is the maximum deviation value Dmax.

[0203] The temperature deviation calculation unit 84a outputs the calculated temperature deviation amount Dt to the second air conditioning control unit 82 and the FrRrTAO calculation unit 84c. Thus, as described above, the second air conditioning control unit 82 sets the second target air outlet temperature RrTAO based on the assumed second target air outlet temperature VRrTAO and the temperature deviation amount Dt.

[0204] Furthermore, the temperature deviation calculation unit 84a outputs the calculated maximum deviation value Dmax to the wind direction determination unit 84b and the FrRrTAO calculation unit 84c. Then, the temperature deviation calculation unit 84a outputs information about the region where the temperature deviation amount Dt is the maximum deviation value Dmax to the wind direction determination unit 84b.

[0205] In step S14, the wind direction determination unit 84b determines the direction of the air conditioning air when the first air conditioning unit 120 blows the air conditioning air out to the second space S2.

[0206] Specifically, the airflow direction determination unit 84b designates the body part of the rear seat occupant 5 corresponding to the region where the temperature deviation amount Dt in the head region A1, chest region A2, leg region A3, and foot region A4 is at its maximum deviation Dmax as the temperature adjustment unit. Then, when the temperature adjustment unit is designated as the part corresponding to any one of the head region A1, chest region A2, or leg region A3, the airflow direction determination unit 84b determines the first rear seat airflow pattern as the first rear seat face pattern, so that air conditioning air is blown out from the first rear seat face airflow outlet 136a. Furthermore, the airflow direction determination unit 84b determines the posture of the airflow adjustment plate 138 so that the air conditioning air blown out from the first rear seat face airflow outlet 136a comes into contact with the temperature adjustment unit.

[0207] In contrast, when the temperature adjustment part is determined to be the part corresponding to the foot area A4, the air direction determination unit 84b determines the first rear seat blowing mode to the first rear seat foot mode so as to blow air conditioning air out from the first rear seat foot blowing outlet 137a.

[0208] In step S16, the FrRrTAO calculation unit 84c reads the second target blowing temperature RrTAO calculated by the second air conditioning control unit 82.

[0209] In step S18, the FrRrTAO calculation unit 84c calculates the third target blowing temperature FrRrTAO of the air conditioning air blown from the first rear seat face air outlet 136a and the first rear seat foot air outlet 137a. The third target blowing temperature FrRrTAO is set based on the temperature sensation deviation amount Dt and the second target blowing temperature RrTAO, with reference to a predetermined control mapping diagram.

[0210] Specifically, the third target blowout temperature FrRrTAO is set to make the warmth sensation of the temperature adjustment part close to the target SET*. For example, if the warmth sensation deviation Dt of the temperature adjustment part is positive, then in order to increase the warmth sensation value of the temperature adjustment part, the third target blowout temperature FrRrTAO is set to a temperature higher than the second target blowout temperature RrTAO. Conversely, if the warmth sensation deviation Dt of the temperature adjustment part is negative, then in order to decrease the warmth sensation value of the temperature adjustment part, the third target blowout temperature FrRrTAO is set to a temperature lower than the second target blowout temperature RrTAO.

[0211] In step S20, the FrRrTAO calculation unit 84c determines the rotational speed of the first centrifugal fan 123 to blow sufficient airflow toward the temperature sensing adjustment part. The rotational speed of the first centrifugal fan 123 is set based on the second target blowing temperature RrTAO and the third target blowing temperature FrRrTAO, with reference to a predetermined control mapping diagram.

[0212] Thus, as Figure 8 As shown, in addition to information about the indoor and outdoor environments such as the second indoor air temperature RrTr, the outdoor air temperature Tam, and the amount of sunlight Ts, as well as the second target temperature RrTset, the air conditioning ECU 80 also determines the second target blowing temperature RrTAO based on the temperature difference Dt felt by the rear seat occupant 5. Furthermore, the air conditioning ECU 80 determines the third target blowing temperature FrRrTAO and the direction and airflow of the air conditioning air blown by the first air conditioning unit 120 into the second space S2 based on the second target blowing temperature RrTAO and the temperature difference Dt felt by the rear seat occupant 5.

[0213] Then, as Figure 12 As shown, the air conditioning ECU 80 controls the operation of various components of the first air conditioning unit 120 based on a first target air outlet temperature FrTAO and a third target air outlet temperature FrRrTAO. Additionally, the air conditioning ECU 80 controls the operation of various components of the second air conditioning unit 140 based on a second target air outlet temperature RrTAO.

[0214] The specific procedures for determining the first target blowing temperature FrTAO, the second target blowing temperature RrTAO, and the third target blowing temperature FrRrTAO are explained.

[0215] The air conditioning ECU 80 determines the first front seat airflow mode based on the calculated first target airflow temperature FrTAO. Then, the air conditioning ECU 80 controls the operation of the first front seat mode actuator 126a to blow air conditioning air from the air outlet corresponding to the determined first front seat airflow mode.

[0216] Additionally, the air conditioning ECU 80 determines the first rear seat airflow mode based on the direction of the air conditioning air determined in step S14. Then, the air conditioning ECU 80 controls the operation of the first rear seat mode actuator 131a to blow air conditioning air from the outlet corresponding to the determined first rear seat airflow mode.

[0217] Additionally, when the first rear seat airflow mode is determined to be the first rear seat face mode, the air conditioning ECU80 controls the operation of the airflow actuator 138a to position the airflow adjustment plate 138 in the posture determined in step S14.

[0218] The posture data for setting the airflow adjustment plate 138 when one of the head area A1, chest area A2, or leg area A3 is a temperature-sensing adjustment area is pre-recorded in the air conditioning ECU 80. The air conditioning ECU 80 uses this posture data to determine the posture of the airflow adjustment plate 138. Furthermore, the posture data value can be corrected through the setting operation of the rear seat occupant 5. Additionally, the posture data value can be corrected based on the position of the aforementioned body parts captured by the IR sensor 70.

[0219] Furthermore, the air conditioning ECU 80 determines the second rear seat airflow mode based on the second target airflow temperature RrTAO calculated by the second air conditioning control unit 82. Then, the air conditioning ECU 80 controls the operation of the second rear seat mode actuator 146a to blow air conditioning air from the outlet corresponding to the determined second rear seat airflow mode.

[0220] In addition, the air conditioning ECU80 controls the first fan actuator 123a to make the first centrifugal fan 123 rotate at the speed determined in step S20.

[0221] In addition, the air conditioning ECU 80 determines the compressor speed 111, the rotation position of the first indoor / outdoor air switching door 122, and the opening degree of the first front seat air mixing door 125 based on the first target air outlet temperature FrTAO, the second target air outlet temperature RrTAO, and the third target air outlet temperature FrRrTAO. Furthermore, the air conditioning ECU 80 determines the opening degree of the first rear seat air mixing door 130, the rotation position of the second indoor / outdoor air switching door 142, the speed of the second centrifugal fan 143, and the opening degree of the second air mixing door 145.

[0222] Then, the air conditioning ECU80 controls these devices to make the temperature of the air conditioning air blown out from the outlets corresponding to the determined first front seat blowing mode, first rear seat blowing mode, and second rear seat blowing mode close to the individually set target temperature.

[0223] Specifically, the air conditioning ECU 80 determines the rotational speed of the compressor 111 and the rotational position of the first indoor / outdoor air switching door 122, so that the temperature of the air conditioning air blown out by the first air conditioning unit 120 is close to the average temperature of the first target air outlet temperature FrTAO and the second target air outlet temperature RrTAO. In addition, the air conditioning ECU 80 determines the opening degree of the first front seat air mixing door 125 and the first rear seat air mixing door 130, so that the temperature of the air conditioning air is close to the average temperature of the first target air outlet temperature FrTAO and the second target air outlet temperature RrTAO.

[0224] Furthermore, the air conditioning unit 10 in this embodiment may also be configured such that the air conditioning ECU 80 controls various components to prioritize providing a comfortable temperature for the rear seat occupants 5 compared to the temperature of the front seat occupants 3. In this case, the air conditioning ECU 80 may also control various components to ensure that the temperature of the air conditioning air blown out by the air conditioning unit 10 is closer to the second target airflow temperature RrTAO and the third target airflow temperature FrRrTAO than to the temperature of the first target airflow temperature FrTAO.

[0225] Additionally, the air conditioning ECU 80 can also control various components to make the temperature of the air-conditioned air blown out by the air conditioning unit 10 closer to the third target blowing temperature FrRrTAO than the temperature of the second target blowing temperature RrTAO. Alternatively, the air conditioning ECU 80 can also control various components to make the temperature of the blown air closer to the second target blowing temperature RrTAO than the temperature of the third target blowing temperature FrRrTAO.

[0226] When the various components are controlled in this way, the first air conditioning unit 120, when operating in the first front seat face mode, blows air conditioning air from the first front seat face air outlet 133a, thereby regulating the air in the first space S1 while primarily adjusting the temperature of the upper body of the front seat occupant 3. Furthermore, when operating in the first front seat foot mode, the first air conditioning unit 120 blows air conditioning air from the first front seat foot air outlet 134a, thereby regulating the air in the first space S1 while primarily adjusting the temperature of the lower body of the front seat occupant 3. Moreover, when operating in defrost mode, the first air conditioning unit 120 blows air conditioning air from the defrost air outlet 135a, thereby regulating the air in the first space S1 and ensuring the air conditioning air contacts the windshield to prevent fogging.

[0227] In addition, when the first air conditioning unit 120 is operating in the first rear seat face mode, it blows air conditioning air out of the first rear seat face air outlet 136a, thereby adjusting the air conditioning in the second space S2 and adjusting the temperature of the rear seat occupant 5's temperature adjustment part.

[0228] Furthermore, when operating in the first rear seat foot mode, the first air conditioning unit 120 blows air conditioning air from the first rear seat foot outlet 137a, thereby adjusting the air conditioning in the second space S2 and adjusting the temperature of the rear seat occupant 5's temperature adjustment area.

[0229] Specifically, the first air conditioning unit 120 adjusts the air conditioning airflow so that a higher target outlet temperature FrRrTAO results in a warmer temperature sensation in the temperature adjustment area, thereby bringing the temperature sensation in the temperature adjustment area closer to the target temperature sensation. Conversely, the first air conditioning unit 120 also adjusts the air conditioning airflow so that a lower target outlet temperature FrRrTAO results in a cooler temperature sensation in the temperature adjustment area, thereby bringing the temperature sensation in the temperature adjustment area closer to the target temperature sensation.

[0230] Therefore, the first air conditioning unit 120 blows air individually towards the body part with the greatest temperature deviation at each time, thereby reducing the absolute value of the temperature deviation Dt at that part. By repeatedly performing this process, the body part with the greatest absolute value of temperature deviation Dt changes at all times. Therefore, the absolute value of temperature deviation Dt is reduced individually at the parts corresponding to the head region A1, chest region A2, leg region A3, and foot region A4.

[0231] As a result, for any body part, the absolute value of the temperature deviation Dt is close to the target temperature. That is, the similarity between the distribution of body parts of the current SET* and the distribution of body parts of the target SET* increases. As a result, the temperature sensations of multiple body parts of the rear seat occupant 5 are directed toward the target SET* determined in step S18.

[0232] Furthermore, when the second air conditioning unit 140 is operated in the second rear seat face mode, it blows air conditioning air from the second rear seat face air outlet 148a, thereby regulating the air in the second space S2 while primarily adjusting the temperature of the upper body of the rear seat occupant 5. Additionally, when operated in the second rear seat foot mode, the second air conditioning unit 140 blows air conditioning air from the second rear seat foot air outlet 149a, thereby regulating the air in the second space S2 while primarily adjusting the temperature of the lower body of the rear seat occupant 5.

[0233] Furthermore, when the seat air conditioning power switch is turned on, the air conditioning ECU 80 determines the start and stop of the operation of the back fan 42 and the seat fan 44 based on the second interior air temperature RrTr and the seat target temperature STset. Then, while the seat fan 44 is operating, the air conditioning ECU 80 determines the speed of the back fan 42 and the speed of the seat fan 44.

[0234] In addition, when the seat air conditioning power switch is turned on, the air conditioning ECU 80 determines the start and stop of operation of the head heater 45, back heater 46, and thigh heater 47 based on the second interior air temperature RrTr and the seat target temperature STset. Then, while the head heater 45, back heater 46, and thigh heater 47 are activated, the air conditioning ECU 80 determines the heat output of each of the head heater 45, back heater 46, and thigh heater 47.

[0235] For example, when the second interior air temperature RrTr is higher than or equal to the seat target temperature STset, the air conditioning ECU 80 determines the speed of the rear fan 42 and the seat fan 44 based on the difference between the second interior air temperature RrTr and the seat target temperature STset. Specifically, when the difference between the second interior air temperature RrTr and the seat target temperature STset is higher than or equal to a predetermined cooling threshold, the air conditioning ECU 80 increases the speed of the rear fan 42 and the seat fan 44 compared to when the difference is less than the predetermined cooling threshold.

[0236] The specified cooling threshold is a value used to determine whether the airflow drawn in from the rear vent 41a and the seat vent 43a is relatively large, and it is preset in the air conditioning ECU 80.

[0237] Thus, the seat air conditioning unit 40 primarily cools the back of the rear seat occupant 5 by drawing in air from the rear air vent 41a. Furthermore, the seat air conditioning unit 40 primarily cools the buttocks and thighs of the rear seat occupant 5 by drawing in air from the seat surface air vent 43a.

[0238] Furthermore, when the second interior air temperature RrTr is lower than the seat target temperature STset, the air conditioning ECU 80 determines the heat output of the head heater 45, back heater 46, and thigh heater 47 based on the difference between the second interior air temperature RrTr and the seat target temperature STset. Specifically, when the difference between the second interior air temperature RrTr and the seat target temperature STset is above a predetermined heating threshold, the air conditioning ECU 80 increases the heat output of the head heater 45, back heater 46, and thigh heater 47 compared to when the difference is below the predetermined heating threshold.

[0239] The specified heating threshold is used to determine whether the heat output of the head heater 45, back heater 46, and thigh heater 47 is relatively large, and it is preset in the air conditioning ECU 80.

[0240] Therefore, the seat air conditioning unit 40 primarily warms the neck of the rear seat occupant 5 through the head heater 45. Additionally, the seat air conditioning unit 40 primarily warms the back of the rear seat occupant 5 through the back heater 46. Furthermore, the seat air conditioning unit 40 primarily warms the buttocks and thighs of the rear seat occupant 5 through the thigh heater 47.

[0241] Through this action, the temperature adjustment system does not adjust the overall temperature of the second space S2, but rather... Figure 13 As shown, the temperature of each of the multiple body parts of the rear seat occupant 5 can be adjusted. Thus, the temperature adjustment system can adjust the temperature of the rear seat occupant 5 to achieve the target temperature distribution for each operating mode set by the target setting unit 83.

[0242] For example, when operating in the default summer mode, the second air conditioning unit 140 blows air conditioning air towards the second space S2, thereby regulating the overall air quality of the second space S2 while providing a cool and comfortable feeling to the rear seat occupant 5. Additionally, the seat air conditioning unit 40 cools the rear seat occupant 5 by drawing in air from the rear air vent 41a and the seat surface air vent 43a. Furthermore, the first air conditioning unit 120 blows air conditioning air towards the head area A1, which tends to require a cooler and more comfortable feeling compared to other areas, thereby providing a cool and comfortable feeling to the area corresponding to the head area A1 of the rear seat occupant 5.

[0243] Therefore, without the need for additional temperature adjustment devices to adjust the warmth of the area corresponding to head region A1, it is possible to make the area corresponding to that region comfortable.

[0244] Furthermore, when operating in the default winter mode, for example, the second target airflow temperature RrTAO is set to a temperature that provides a comfortable warmth to the areas corresponding to the head region A1 and chest region A2. In this case, the second air conditioning unit 140 blows air conditioning air towards the second space S2, thereby providing a warm feeling to the rear seat occupant 5 while simultaneously regulating the overall airflow of the second space S2. Additionally, the seat air conditioning unit 40 warms the rear seat occupant 5 by generating heat through the head heater 45, back heater 46, and thigh heater 47. Furthermore, by blowing air conditioning air towards the lower side of the second space S2, where cooler air tends to fill, a warm feeling is provided to the area corresponding to the leg region A3 of the rear seat occupant 5.

[0245] Therefore, it is not necessary to add a temperature adjustment device, different from the seat air conditioning unit 40, for adjusting the temperature of the area corresponding to the leg area A3, to make the area corresponding to that area comfortable.

[0246] In this way, even if the temperature of each part of the rear passenger 5 is comfortable to feel changes depending on the external environment and the mental state desired by the rear passenger 5, the temperature adjustment system can still provide each part of the body with a temperature that is comfortable to feel. Furthermore, even if the temperature values ​​of each part of the rear passenger 5 are different, the system can still provide each part of the body with a temperature that is comfortable to feel.

[0247] Therefore, when cooling or heating the vehicle interior, the temperature adjustment system can make the rear passenger 5 comfortable by adjusting the temperature of each of several body parts. Furthermore, the temperature adjustment system can provide the rear passenger 5 with a calming or invigorating temperature by adjusting the temperature of each of several body parts.

[0248] As described above, in the temperature adjustment system of this embodiment, when there are areas of inconsistent temperature sensation among multiple body parts of the rear seat occupant 5, the temperature sensation of the rear seat occupant 5 can be adjusted by blowing air conditioning air towards those areas from the first air conditioning unit 120. Therefore, it is not necessary to add a temperature adjustment device to each part of the rear seat occupant 5 where temperature sensation needs to be adjusted. Therefore, the number of temperature adjustment devices can be reduced, and the temperature sensation of each body part of the rear seat occupant 5 can be adjusted.

[0249] (1) In the above embodiment, the front seat 2 is disposed in the first space S1, and the rear seat 4 is disposed in the second space S2. Furthermore, the first air conditioning unit 120 blows air conditioning air towards the area of ​​the rear seat occupant 5 who is seated in the rear seat 4 where the temperature is not being monitored. Additionally, the air conditioning capacity of the first air conditioning unit 120 is greater than that of the second air conditioning unit 140. Therefore, by using the first air conditioning unit 120, which has a greater air conditioning capacity, the temperature of the rear seat occupant 5 in the second space S2, where the air conditioning is being conditioned by the second air conditioning unit 140, which has a lower air conditioning capacity, can be adjusted.

[0250] Therefore, compared to the case where the second air conditioning unit 140 with lower air conditioning capacity adjusts the temperature of the front seat occupant 3 in the first space S1 where the air conditioning unit 120 with higher air conditioning capacity is used to adjust the temperature of the rear seat occupant 5, it is easier to adjust the temperature of the rear seat occupant 5.

[0251] (2) In the above embodiment, the first air conditioning device 120 has an air direction adjustment plate 138 for adjusting the direction of the air conditioning air. Moreover, the air direction adjustment plate 138 changes the direction of the air conditioning air so that the air conditioning air blows out towards the heat-sensitive areas of multiple body parts of the rear seat occupant 5, thereby making the heat sensation of the heat-sensitive areas closer to the target heat sensation.

[0252] Therefore, compared to the case where the first air conditioning unit 120 has an air outlet that is set according to the number of body parts and corresponds to multiple body parts of the rear seat occupant 5, the air conditioning can be blown towards the parts that are not sensitive to heat with a simple structure.

[0253] (3) In the above embodiment, the IR sensor 70 detects the ambient temperature of the rear seat occupant 5 and uses the detected ambient temperature to infer the heat sensation of each of the multiple body parts of the rear seat occupant 5. Thus, compared with the structure of setting a heat sensor to detect the heat sensation of each of the multiple body parts of the rear seat occupant 5, the heat sensation of the rear seat occupant 5 can be detected with a simple structure.

[0254] (Other implementation methods)

[0255] The above describes representative embodiments of the present invention, but the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments, and various modifications can be made as described below.

[0256] In the above embodiment, an example has been described where the first rear seat face air outlet 136a, which blows air conditioning air from the first air conditioning unit 120 toward the second space S2, is located on the space partition wall 6, but this is not a limitation. For example, such as Figure 14 As shown, the first rear seat face blowing outlet 136a can also be set on the central pillar 7 in addition to the space partition wall 6.

[0257] In the above embodiments, an example of the second air conditioning unit 140 being able to cool and heat the second space S2 has been described, but it is not limited thereto. For example, the second air conditioning unit 140 may be a structure capable of performing either cooling or heating.

[0258] In the above embodiment, an example has been described where the first air conditioning unit 120, which regulates the air in the first space S1 where the front seat 2 is located, adjusts the temperature of the rear seat occupant 5 in the second space S2 where the rear seat 4 is located, in a way that is not limited to this. For example, the temperature adjustment system could also be such that the second air conditioning unit 140 has an outlet that blows air conditioning air toward the front seat occupant 3, and the second air conditioning unit 140 adjusts the temperature of the front seat occupant 3 in a way that is not conducive to temperature adjustment.

[0259] In the above embodiments, an example has been described where the temperature adjustment system is configured to include a seat air conditioning unit 40, which, in addition to the first air conditioning unit 120, can also adjust the temperature of multiple body parts of the rear seat occupant 5, but this is not a limitation. The temperature adjustment system may also be configured to not include a seat air conditioning unit 40 and to adjust the temperature of each of the multiple body parts of the rear seat occupant 5 solely through the first air conditioning unit 120.

[0260] In the above embodiments, an example of changing the direction of the air conditioning air blown from the first air conditioning unit 120 by changing the first rear seat air blowing mode has been described, but it is not limited to this. For example, the first air conditioning unit 120 may also be a structure that does not provide the first rear seat foot air outlet 137a and adjusts the direction of the air conditioning air blown by the first air conditioning unit 120 only by the air direction adjustment plate 138.

[0261] In the above-described embodiment, an example was described whereby the airflow adjustment plate 138 adjusts the direction of the air conditioning air blown from the first rear seat face air outlet 136a, thereby adjusting the temperature sensation of multiple body parts of the rear seat occupant 5, but this is not a limitation. For example, the first air conditioning unit 120 may not have the airflow adjustment plate 138 but may have multiple air outlets corresponding to multiple body parts of the rear seat occupant 5, and the temperature sensation of multiple body parts of the rear seat occupant 5 may be adjusted by switching the air outlets that blow out the air conditioning air.

[0262] In the above embodiment, the temperature sensing unit is composed of an IR sensor 70, which detects the ambient temperature of the rear seat occupant 5 and uses the detected ambient temperature to infer the surface temperature of each of the multiple body parts of the rear seat occupant 5. However, this is not a limitation. For example, the temperature sensing adjustment system may also have the following structure: the IR sensor 70 detects the surface temperature of each of the multiple body parts of the rear seat occupant 5, and the air conditioning ECU 80 calculates the surface temperature of each of the multiple body parts of the rear seat occupant 5 based on the temperature information detected by the IR sensor 70. Alternatively, for example, the temperature sensing unit may be composed of multiple temperature sensors corresponding to the multiple body parts of the rear seat occupant 5, and the temperature of each of the multiple body parts of the rear seat occupant 5 may be detected by these multiple temperature sensors.

[0263] In the above embodiments, Figures 4-7 The distribution of temperature reference values ​​under each operating mode is shown, but the distribution of temperature reference values ​​is not limited to this. Figures 4-7 The distribution of temperature reference values ​​for each operating mode shown is an example and can be changed appropriately.

[0264] In the above embodiment, an example was described where the first air conditioning unit 120 blows air conditioning air towards the body part of the rear seat occupant 5 where the absolute value of the temperature deviation amount Dt is the largest among multiple body parts, but this is not a limitation. For example, if the temperature of multiple body parts of the rear seat occupant 5 deviates from the target temperature, the first air conditioning unit 120 may also adjust the temperature of these multiple body parts in a predetermined fixed order. In addition, if the temperature of multiple body parts of the rear seat occupant 5 deviates from the target temperature, the first air conditioning unit 120 may simultaneously adjust the temperature of multiple body parts by blowing air conditioning air from the first rear seat face outlet 136a and the first rear seat foot outlet 137a.

[0265] In the above embodiments, an example of using SET* as an indicator of temperature sensation has been described, but it is not limited to this. For example, the temperature environment assessment index PMV (Predicted Mean Vote) can be used instead of SET* as an indicator of temperature sensation.

[0266] In the above-described embodiment, the air conditioning ECU 80 has been described as an example of selecting an operating mode based on the operation of the first setting unit 75 and the second setting unit 76, but it is not limited to this. For example, the air conditioning ECU 80 may determine the posture of the rear seat occupant 5 using image recognition technology based on the image obtained from the IR sensor 70, and select an operating mode based on the determined posture. For example, if the posture of the backrest of the rear seat 4 changes from a predetermined posture, the air conditioning ECU 80 may also select a relaxation mode.

[0267] In the above implementation method, the air conditioning ECU80 is executed. Figure 11 The example shown illustrates the process, but is not limited to it. For instance, the temperature adjustment system could also have a processing unit separate from the air conditioning ECU 80, which performs... Figure 11 The processing is performed. In this case, the processing device corresponds to the temperature and heat deviation calculation unit 84a by executing step S12.

[0268] In the above embodiment, the adjustment of the temperature of the front seat occupant 3 seated in the driver's seat (which serves as the front seat 2) by the first air conditioning unit 120 has been described, but it is not limited to this. For example, the first air conditioning unit 120 may also adjust the temperature of the front seat occupant 3 seated in the passenger seat in addition to the front seat occupant 3 seated in the driver's seat. In this case, for example, the front seat first ventilation duct 121aa and the rear seat first ventilation duct 121ab may be divided by a partition into ventilation ducts corresponding to the driver's seat and the passenger seat, respectively. Moreover, the temperature adjustment system may also be a structure that independently adjusts the temperature of the front seat occupant 3 seated in the driver's seat and the front seat occupant 3 seated in the passenger seat.

[0269] In the above embodiment, an example of a single passage for the second ventilation path 141a has been described, but it is not limited to this. For example, the second ventilation path 141a in the second air conditioning unit 140 may be divided into ventilation paths corresponding to the two rear seats 4 by a partition. Moreover, the temperature adjustment system may be a structure that independently adjusts the temperature of the rear seat occupants 5 seated in the two rear seats 4 respectively.

[0270] In the above embodiments, an example was described where the air conditioning ECU 80 obtains the outside air temperature Tam from the outside air temperature sensor 73 and the solar radiation Ts from the solar radiation sensor 74, but this is not a limitation. For example, the temperature and humidity adjustment system could also be a structure that eliminates the outside air temperature sensor 73 and the solar radiation sensor 74 and receives the outside air temperature Tam and solar radiation Ts from a server or cloud outside the vehicle 1. Alternatively, the temperature and humidity adjustment system could also be a structure that eliminates the outside air temperature sensor 73 and the solar radiation sensor 74 and obtains association information associated with the outside air temperature Tam and solar radiation Ts from a server or cloud outside the vehicle 1. Furthermore, the temperature and humidity adjustment system could also be a structure that infers the outside air temperature Tam and solar radiation Ts based on the obtained association information.

[0271] In the above embodiments, the elements constituting the embodiments are not necessarily essential, except where they are specifically stated to be necessary or are considered obviously necessary in principle.

[0272] In the above embodiments, when referring to the number, value, quantity, range, or other numerical values ​​of the structural elements of the embodiments, they are not limited to that specific number, except where it is specifically stated that they are necessary or where they are clearly limited to a specific number in principle.

[0273] In the above embodiments, when referring to the shape, positional relationship, etc. of structural elements, etc., the references are not limited to that shape, positional relationship, etc., except in cases where they are specifically indicated or where they are limited to a specific shape, positional relationship in principle.

Claims

1. A temperature sensing adjustment system for adjusting the temperature sensation of vehicle occupants, characterized in that, have: A first air conditioning unit blows air conditioning air toward a first space, which is the object of air conditioning, and a front seat is provided in the first space; A second air conditioning unit blows air conditioning air toward a second space, which is an air conditioning target space different from the first space, and a rear seat is provided in the second space; A temperature sensing unit that detects information related to the temperature sensation of each of the multiple body parts of the occupant; as well as A temperature deviation calculation unit calculates the difference between the temperature sensation of each of the occupant's multiple body parts and the target temperature sensation of each of the occupant's multiple body parts, the temperature sensation of each of the occupant's multiple body parts being calculated based on information related to the temperature sensation detected by the temperature detection unit. The first air conditioning unit includes a first air conditioning housing. The first air conditioner housing is divided into a front seat first ventilation duct and a rear seat first ventilation duct by a ventilation duct partition wall. In the first air conditioning housing, downstream of the airflow direction of the first ventilation duct in the rear seat, a first rear seat face opening and a first rear seat foot opening are formed for blowing air conditioning air from the first ventilation duct in the rear seat to the second space. A first rear seat face section is provided at the first rear seat face opening for opening and closing the first rear seat face opening. A first rear seat foot compartment is provided at the first rear seat foot opening for opening and closing the first rear seat foot opening. The first air conditioning unit also includes: The first rear seat face pipe has one end connected to the first rear seat face opening, and the other end of the first rear seat face pipe has a first rear seat face outlet opening in the space partition wall at a position opposite to the back of the chair in the second space. as well as A first rear seat foot passage, one end of which is connected to a first rear seat foot opening, and a first rear seat foot outlet, which is the other end of the first rear seat foot passage, opens in the space partition wall opposite to the foot space in front of the seat cushion of the second space. In the event that there is a location in the plurality of body parts of the occupant existing in the second space where the calculated temperature sensation deviates from the target temperature sensation, the first air conditioning unit blows air conditioning air towards the location where the temperature sensation deviates from the target temperature sensation from the first rear seat face outlet of the first rear seat ventilation duct or the first rear seat foot outlet of the first rear seat ventilation duct, so that the temperature sensation of the location where the temperature sensation deviates from the target temperature sensation approaches the target temperature sensation.

2. The temperature adjustment system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first air conditioning unit has a higher air conditioning capacity than the second air conditioning unit, and blows air conditioning air towards the part of the occupant in the rear seat that is away from the heat.

3. The temperature adjustment system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first air conditioning unit has an airflow adjustment mechanism for adjusting the direction of the blown air. The airflow adjustment mechanism changes the direction of the air conditioning air to blow the air conditioning air towards the part where the temperature sensation is reversed, so that the temperature sensation of the part where the temperature sensation is reversed is close to the temperature sensation of the target.

4. The temperature adjustment system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The temperature sensing unit detects the ambient temperature of the occupant and uses the detected ambient temperature to infer the temperature sensation of each of the multiple body parts of the occupant.

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