Method for controlling conductive or convective effectors

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a method for controlling a heat effect device in a vehicle. The method includes calculating a heat transfer rate with respect to the conditioned medium and calculating a target temperature of the heat effect device required to implement the heat transfer rate with respect to the conditioned medium. The heat transfer rate is required to reach the set point temperature of the conditioned medium. The heat transfer rate is based on a setpoint temperature and a dynamically estimated temperature of the conditioned medium. And controlling the heat effect device to reach the target temperature.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to methods for controlling a conductive thermoeffector or a convective thermoeffector. A conductive thermoeffector adjusts a surface temperature, and a convective thermoeffector adjusts an airflow temperature and / or a surface temperature. Background Art

[0002] Some climatized vehicle systems operate at a set of predetermined discrete set points selected by the occupant using actuation of buttons, dials, etc. One disadvantage of these systems is the inability to adjust the temperature between set points. Another disadvantage is the continuous change of temperature set points during vehicle operation.

[0003] To address these challenges, some climate responsive vehicle systems employ sensors for monitoring parameters such as temperature of thermoeffectors, blower speed, outside temperature, solar radiation, cabin air temperature, humidity, and number of occupants. The set points selected by the occupants are then associated with these parameters via a lookup table, and the operation of the thermoeffectors (e.g., duty cycle of the heater pad) is thus directed by both the set points and the parameters. These systems operate under a limited number of predetermined scenarios. One disadvantage of these systems is the large degree of calibration effort that is performed to take into account possible scenarios that the vehicle may face. As an example, the system is typically calibrated to take into account driving in different seasons, geographic climates, weather conditions, etc. In addition, because such parameters have different effects on different vehicle configurations (including the number and location of thermoeffectors), calibration is performed for each vehicle brand, model, model year, and trim level.

[0004] Typically, sensors and thermoeffectors are calibrated individually. Thus, calibration is performed for a single effector. Due to such individual treatment, thermoeffectors typically do not communicate with each other to collaboratively regulate vehicle or energy usage. Thus, where a surface is regulated by multiple thermoeffectors, the ramp-up to the set point temperature is typically done very slowly and with great care to avoid causing discomfort to the occupants.

[0005] Similarly, when calibration takes into account cabin air temperature rather than surface temperature, operation of the thermal effector is performed with caution to avoid overheating or overcooling the occupants, which could cause discomfort. As a result, it takes longer for the surface to reach the selected set point temperature than would otherwise be the case.

[0006] Some climate-adaptive vehicle systems calibrate thermoeffectors to a specific cabin air temperature. However, cabin air temperature does not accurately represent the temperature felt by the occupants at the surface and is subject to constant fluctuations. Although providing sensors close to the surface can detect the temperature felt at the surface, several challenges arise. Thermoeffector operation may require repeatable accuracy and precision of the location of these sensors to cooperate with the calibration of the system. However, consistent location of these sensors may be difficult during the manufacturing process. In addition, the automotive industry is concerned with cost reduction, so additional sensors with attendant costs are generally not a favorable solution. Sensors disposed in or on a compressible layer, such as a spacer layer in a seat, may be felt by the occupants, thereby negatively affecting comfort. In addition, the compressible layer exposes the sensor to repeated wear, which may degrade the integrity of the sensor over time.

[0007] A method is needed to control a conductive thermoeffector based on a dynamically estimated temperature felt by an occupant at a surface. A method is needed to control a convective thermoeffector based on a dynamically estimated temperature of the airflow at an outlet.

[0008] What is needed is a method to control thermoeffectors using existing sensor and / or controller hardware.

[0009] There is a need for a method for providing control of a thermoeffector to a dynamic surface temperature that is not constrained by a predetermined set point. There is a need for a method for providing control of a thermoeffector to a dynamic airflow temperature that is not constrained by a predetermined set point.

[0010] What is needed is a method for eliminating the need for calibration to populate the lookup table.

[0011] There is a need for methods to provide cooperation between thermoeffectors to condition a common surface and share energy usage. There is a need for methods to provide cooperation between thermoeffectors to condition a common airflow and share energy usage.

[0012] What is needed is a method for providing a faster attainment of an occupant selected set point (eg, temperature) relative to conventional methods. Summary of the invention

[0013] The present disclosure provides methods that can address at least some of the needs identified above. The present disclosure provides methods for controlling a thermoeffector in a vehicle. The method may include calculating a heat transfer rate relative to a conditioned medium. The heat transfer rate may be based on a set point temperature and a dynamically estimated temperature of the conditioned medium. The heat transfer rate may be required to achieve the set point temperature of the conditioned medium. The method may include calculating a target temperature of the thermoeffector required to achieve the heat transfer rate relative to the conditioned medium. The method may include controlling the thermoeffector to achieve the target temperature.

[0014] The conditioned medium may include a surface or an air stream.

[0015] The surface may be on a vehicle component. The vehicle component may include a steering wheel, a gear lever, a seat, a headrest, a door panel, an instrument panel, a headliner, a center console, a leg panel, a floor, or any combination thereof.

[0016] The airflow may be emitted from an exhaust port in or on a vehicle component. The vehicle component may include a steering wheel, a gear lever, a seat, a headrest, a door panel, an instrument panel, a roof lining, a center console, a leg panel, a floor, or any combination thereof.

[0017] The airflow at the outlet can be estimated dynamically.

[0018] The airflow may flow into a receiving device in a vehicle component. The vehicle component may include a steering wheel, a gear lever, a seat, a headrest, a door panel, an instrument panel, a roof lining, a center console, a leg panel, a floor, or any combination thereof.

[0019] The airflow within the containment device may be estimated dynamically.

[0020] The method may include calculating a target temperature of the transport medium required to achieve the heat transfer rate relative to the conditioned medium. The target temperature of the transport medium may be based on the heat transfer rate relative to the conditioned medium and any other heat transfer rates acting on the conditioned medium.

[0021] The method may include calculating a heat transfer rate relative to a transfer medium in thermal communication with the conditioned medium. The heat transfer rate may be based on a target temperature of the transfer medium and a dynamically estimated temperature of the transfer medium.

[0022] The transfer medium may comprise a material layer or a heat exchanger. The material layer may be a spacer layer.

[0023] The conditioned medium may be a surface. Other heat transfer rates acting on the surface may include a heat transfer rate between the cabin environment and the surface, a heat transfer rate between an occupant and the surface, or both.

[0024] The conditioned medium may be an air flow. Other heat transfer rates acting on the air flow may include a heat transfer rate between a conduit through which the air flow travels and the air flow.

[0025] The thermal effectors that apply the target temperature to the conditioned medium may include resistive elements, thermoelectric devices, or both.

[0026] The controlling step may include adjusting power to the thermoeffector (eg, pulse width modulation duty cycle, constant current control, etc.) and / or the speed of the blower to achieve the set point temperature.

[0027] The set point temperature may be received from the occupant via a human machine interface.

[0028] The heat transfer rate relative to the conditioned medium may be based on the difference between the temperature applied to the conditioned medium and the dynamically estimated temperature of the conditioned medium, thermal resistance, surface area over which heat transfer occurs, or any combination thereof.

[0029] The heat transfer rate relative to the transfer medium may be based on the difference between the temperature applied to the transfer medium and the dynamically estimated temperature of the transfer medium, thermal resistance, surface area over which heat transfer occurs, or any combination thereof.

[0030] Two or more thermal effectors may cooperate to effect a heat transfer rate relative to the conditioned medium.

[0031] The method may include calculating a total heat transfer rate required from two or more thermal effectors to achieve a set point temperature of the conditioned medium.

[0032] The method may include dividing the total heat transfer rate equally or unequally between two or more thermal effectors.

[0033] The target temperature calculating step may include calculating a target temperature for each of the two or more thermoeffectors based on respective portions of the total heat transfer rate attributable to each of the two or more thermoeffectors. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0034] Figure 1 A method according to the present disclosure is shown.

[0035] Figure 2 A method according to the present disclosure is shown.

[0036] Figure 3 A thermally tuned surface is shown.

[0037] Figure 4 Thermally regulated airflow is shown.

[0038] Figure 5 Thermally regulated airflows and surfaces are shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0039] The present disclosure provides a method for controlling one or more thermoeffectors. The thermoeffector can adjust a surface, an airflow, or both. In this article, the surface or airflow to be adjusted can be referred to as a regulated medium. The regulated medium can play a role in exchanging heat with an occupant. As an example, an occupant can contact the regulated surface, be contacted by radiation emitted from the surface, and / or be contacted by the airflow. The regulated medium can be directly or indirectly thermally connected to one or more thermoeffectors. One or more transmission media can be arranged between the thermoeffector and the regulated medium. The transmission medium can play a role in transferring heat between the thermoeffector and the regulated medium. The transmission medium can include a material layer, a heat exchanger, or both.

[0040] The surface may be any surface of a vehicle component. The surface may be located within the cabin of a vehicle. The surface may be on a trim layer. That is, an exposed, visible surface of a vehicle that an occupant typically contacts (e.g., seat leather or fabric). A vehicle component may include any component that an occupant contacts. The surface may exchange heat with one or more thermal effectors, one or more material layers, an occupant, cabin air, a radiant heat source, or any combination thereof.

[0041] The airflow can be discharged at an outlet (e.g., an exhaust port). The outlet can be located in a vehicle assembly. Before reaching the outlet, the airflow can travel through one or more pipes and / or exchange heat with one or more pipes. One or more heat exchangers and / or thermoeffectors can be arranged in one or more pipes or on one or more pipes. The airflow can exchange heat with one or more thermoeffectors and / or heat exchangers. The airflow can be provided to the cabin of the vehicle. The airflow can be thermally connected to the cabin air and / or one or more occupants.

[0042] Vehicle components may include, but are not limited to, steering wheels, gear shifters, seats, headrests, door panels, dashboards, headliners, center consoles, leg panels, floor panels, or any combination thereof. Vehicle components may be any component within the cabin of a vehicle. Vehicle components may be climate controlled. That is, the components may be heated and / or cooled to provide comfort to the occupants.

[0043] Non-limiting examples of climate-controlled steering wheels are described in U.S. Patents 6,727,467 B1 and 9,399,480 B2, which are incorporated herein by reference for all purposes. Non-limiting examples of climate-controlled gear shift levers are described in U.S. Patents 9,298,207 B2, which are incorporated herein by reference for all purposes. Non-limiting examples of climate-controlled seats are described in U.S. Patents 7,338,117 B2 (describing ventilated seats) and 7,196,288 B2 (describing conductively heated seats), which are incorporated herein by reference for all purposes. Non-limiting examples of climate-controlled headrests are described in U.S. Patents 9,333,888 B2, which are incorporated herein by reference for all purposes.

[0044] Non-limiting examples of exhaust vents located in or on seats are described in U.S. Publications 2017 / 0129375A1 and 2021 / 0276463A1, which are incorporated herein by reference for all purposes. Non-limiting examples of exhaust vents located in headrests are described in U.S. Patent 9,333,888B2, which is incorporated herein by reference for all purposes. Non-limiting examples of exhaust vents located in doors are described in U.S. Publication 2017 / 0182861A1, which is incorporated herein by reference for all purposes. Non-limiting examples of exhaust vents located in a headliner are described in U.S. Patent 10,266,031B2, which is incorporated herein by reference for all purposes. Non-limiting examples of other systems for regulating airflow are described in U.S. Patents 9,103,573B2 and 9,555,686B2, which are incorporated herein by reference for all purposes.

[0045] The temperature of a surface and / or airflow may be adjusted by one or more thermal effectors ("effectors"). A thermal effector in thermal communication with a surface may be a conductive effector. A conductive effector may generate heat that is ultimately conducted to a surface contacted by an occupant. A conductive effector may absorb heat from their surroundings that ultimately absorbs heat from a surface contacted by an occupant. Non-limiting examples of conductive effectors are described in U.S. Pat. No. 9,657,963 B2 (describing a heater pad), which is incorporated herein by reference for all purposes.

[0046] The thermal effector in thermal communication with the airflow can be a convection effector. The convection effector can heat and / or cool one or more airflows, which are delivered to the occupants and / or one or more surfaces. The convection effector for conditioning the surface can deliver the airflow to a hermetically sealed or at least partially hermetically sealed container (e.g., a container bag). Therefore, conditioned air can be delivered to the container, and the air in the container can cause heat exchange with one or more media in contact with the container. The thermal effector can cooperate with one or more heat exchangers. The heat exchanger can function as a thermal communication with the airflow. The heat exchanger can be made from a thermally conductive material (e.g., a thermal conductivity of about 100 W / (m·K) or more, more preferably about 200 W / (m·K) or more, or even more preferably about 300 W / (m·K) or more). The heat exchanger can be adapted to the surface area through which the airflow travels. To this end, the heat exchanger may include a plurality of fins or corrugations, although the present teachings contemplate any other suitable shape.Non-limiting examples of suitable heat exchangers are described in US Pat. Nos. 7,178,344 B2 and 8,143,554 B2, which are incorporated herein by reference for all purposes.

[0047] Heating and / or cooling may be achieved through the operation of one or more resistive elements, thermoelectric devices, or both. Non-limiting examples of resistive elements are described in U.S. Patent 9,657,963 B2, which is incorporated herein by reference for all purposes. Non-limiting examples of thermoelectric devices are described in U.S. Patent 9,857,107 B2, which is incorporated herein by reference for all purposes. Heating and / or cooling may utilize a fluid medium (e.g., air) that transfers heat to and / or from occupants, vehicle components, or both. The fluid medium may be moved by one or more blowers. Non-limiting examples of blowers are described in International Publication WO2008 / 115831 A1 and U.S. Patent 9,121,414 B2, which are incorporated herein by reference for all purposes.

[0048] Thermoeffectors can be controlled to provide heating and / or cooling corresponding to the operating mode and / or set point temperature. The operating mode and / or set point temperature can be determined by the interaction of the occupant with a human-machine interface (HMI). The operating mode and / or set point temperature can be determined by the actuation of one or more knobs, buttons, dials, toggle keys, switches, etc. or any combination thereof by the occupant. The operating mode and / or set point temperature can be determined by an autonomous control system. These systems can consider one or more sensor inputs and autonomously adjust the set point via one or more controllers. The operating mode can be turned on (ON) or turned off (OFF). Thermoeffectors can be operated by adjusting the power supply to the thermoeffector (e.g., pulse width modulation duty cycle and constant current control, etc.). The duty cycle can be operated to ramp up to achieve the set point temperature, and then maintain the set point temperature, at least until the operating mode is changed or the set point temperature is changed by the guidance of the occupant. The duty cycle can be operated according to the difference between the dynamically estimated surface temperature and the set point temperature.

[0049] The method of the present disclosure may rely at least in part on a dynamic estimate of temperature. A dynamic estimate of a surface temperature is disclosed in U.S. Application 63 / 316,762. A dynamic estimate of a gas flow temperature is disclosed in U.S. Application 63 / 316,779. The dynamic estimate may be based on one or more heat transfer rates, heat capacities, program cycle times, and temperatures from previous program cycles. The heat transfer rate between two media is typically based on a temperature difference between the two media, a surface area where heat transfer is occurring, one or more thermal resistances, or any combination thereof. Heat capacity, cycle time, thermal resistance, surface area, or any combination thereof may be a predetermined value. Other predetermined values ​​may be understood by the present teachings. Current and previous program cycle temperatures may be provided by previous dynamic estimates or sensor inputs. Thus, the heat transfer rate and dynamically estimated temperature through any number of continuous thermal media may be determined based on only one variable input (e.g., a thermoeffector temperature).

[0050] The disclosed method can estimate the temperature of the surface and / or airflow and continuously update the temperature estimate. Therefore, the disclosed method can adapt to fluctuating ambient cabin conditions. The disclosed method can adapt in real time to provide consistent thermal comfort for the occupants.

[0051] Compared to conventional methods and systems, the control method can be based on a relatively small set of predetermined values. These values ​​can include thermal resistance, thermal capacitance, surface area, time to achieve temperature, or any combination thereof. These values ​​are non-limiting, and other values ​​can be appreciated through the present disclosure. These values ​​can be stored in one or more transient or non-transient memory storage media.

[0052] The control method may employ one or more lookup tables, transfer functions, equations, or any combination thereof. The equations and / or transfer functions may be provided with inputs from a human-machine interface, calculations from other modules (e.g., a dynamic temperature estimation module and / or a heat transfer rate calculation module), predetermined values ​​(e.g., thermal resistance and thermal capacitance), or any combination thereof. Sensor inputs may be obtained in real time. Predetermined values ​​and / or calculations from other modules may be obtained from a transient or non-transient memory storage medium.

[0053] As referred to herein, estimation may mean the calculation of a parameter, understanding that the result of such calculation may not correspond exactly to the actual value (e.g., the temperature of a surface). Thus, the result of such calculation may be an estimate of the actual value. The systems and methods of the present disclosure may provide an estimate that deviates from the actual value by less than about 10%, more preferably less than 5%, or even more preferably less than 1%.

[0054] Any calculation, dynamic estimation, storage, transmission, determination and / or acquisition steps described herein can be performed by one or more controllers. The controller can include one or more dedicated effector controllers, dedicated system controllers, vehicle controllers, or any combination thereof. Calculations and dynamic estimations can be performed by one controller, or can be distributed between multiple controllers. Any non-transient value (e.g., predetermined value) or input can be stored locally on the controller and / or stored away from the controller. Any input calculated or estimated from other modules can be stored locally on the controller and / or stored away from the controller. Any input calculated or estimated from other modules can be temporarily stored on the controller. Any calculated or estimated input from other modules can be replaced or updated by newly provided input calculated or estimated from other modules. The above applies to all embodiments.

[0055] Any communication or transmission between different controllers, sensors and / or other devices may be via a local interconnect network (LIN) bus. Communication or transmission may occur from a sensor to a controller or from a controller to other controllers. As an example but not limitation, an occupancy sensor may transmit an occupancy state to a vehicle controller, which may then transmit an occupancy signal to a dedicated effector controller. The above applies to all embodiments.

[0056] As referred to herein, a vehicle may mean any automobile, recreational vehicle, sea vessel, air vessel, etc., or any combination thereof. Although the present disclosure discusses conditioning vehicles and surfaces thereof, the teachings herein may be adapted to any space that is conditioned through surfaces that can be in direct and / or radiant thermal communication with an individual. As an example, the present teachings may be applied to furniture (e.g., chairs and beds), buildings, etc., or any combination thereof.

[0057] Any reference to heat transfer rate and dynamic estimated temperature may refer to the current heat transfer rate and the current dynamic estimated temperature. That is, these values ​​may be ultimately determined by one or more sensor inputs from one or more sensors at the current time, and / or one or more calculations performed at the current time (e.g., from the immediately previous program cycle and / or the current program cycle).

[0058] The present method may be used to adjust the temperature of a surface. The surface temperature may be adjusted by one or more thermoeffectors. Ultimately, the adjustment to the surface temperature is determined by the difference between the current temperature of the surface and the set point temperature. That is, the amount of energy supplied to the thermoeffectors and the amount of time for which the energy is supplied in order to implement the set point surface temperature may be ultimately determined by the difference between the current temperature of the surface and the set point temperature.

[0059] The method may include achieving a set point surface temperature (T surf-set ) required for dynamic estimation of the surface temperature (T surf-est ) Calculate the surface temperature change (ΔT surf The surface temperature (T surf-est ) and set point temperature (T surf-set ) to determine the surface temperature change (ΔT surf The surface temperature (T ) may be estimated dynamically as taught in U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 316,762 (which is incorporated herein by reference for all purposes). surf-est ). Dynamically estimated surface temperature (T surf-est ) may be a current dynamically estimated surface temperature. That is, the dynamic estimate may ultimately be based on one or more sensor inputs currently obtained from one or more sensors (e.g., one or more sensors associated with one or more thermal effectors). The set point temperature (T ) may be received from the occupant via a human-machine interface (HMI). surf-set The surface temperature change (ΔT surf ).

[0060] Formula AΔT surf =T surf-set -T surf-est

[0061] The method may include calculating the rate of change of surface temperature The surface temperature change (ΔT surf ) (see Equation A) and the time it takes to achieve the set point temperature (t to-set ) to determine the surface temperature change rate The time taken to achieve the set point temperature may be a fixed value or may vary. The time taken to achieve the set point temperature may be stored in a memory storage medium. The surface temperature change rate may be calculated according to the following formula:

[0062] Formula B

[0063] The method may include calculating the rate of change of surface temperature The desired target overall heat transfer rate to the surface The rate of change of surface temperature can be (see Equation B) and the surface heat capacity (C surf ) to determine the target total heat transfer rate The target total heat transfer rate to the surface can be calculated according to the following formula

[0064] Formula C

[0065] The method may include calculating a target heat transfer rate between a material layer (e.g., a spacer layer) and a surface Reference is made herein to spacers. Spacers may serve the following functions: to space the thermoeffector from the surface, to provide electrical insulation, to protect the thermoeffector and / or sensor from wear and / or damage, or any combination thereof. However, the present teachings are not limited to material layers being spacers. One or more material layers may be arranged between the thermoeffector and the surface. Typically, a spacer is arranged between the thermoeffector and the surface.

[0066] A target heat transfer rate with a surface can be achieved by the sum of all heat transfers relative to the surface. Heat can be transferred to the surface by any medium that is in thermal communication with the surface. Heat can be transferred to the surface by one or more thermoeffectors, one or more material layers, cabin environment, occupants, or any combination thereof. The present method ultimately focuses on heat transfer attributable to thermoeffectors. The heat generated by the thermoeffectors can be ultimately transferred to the surface by one or more material layers. In another aspect where the thermoeffectors are adapted to cool the surface, the heat can be ultimately transferred to the thermoeffectors by one or more material layers. Therefore, a target heat transfer rate from any material layer to the surface can be determined.

[0067] The target total heat transfer rate can be obtained from the surface (See Equation C), the heat transfer rate between the environment and the surface Heat transfer rate between occupants and surfaces or any combination thereof to determine the target heat transfer rate between the spacer and the surface The heat transfer rate between the environment and the surface may be determined as taught in U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 316,762, which is incorporated herein by reference for all purposes. and / or heat transfer rate between occupants and surfaces The following formula D takes into account the positive Value and values ​​(e.g., heat flow from the environment and occupants into the surface). minus and The present disclosure contemplates that heat may flow from or into the environment and / or occupants relative to a surface, and thus these conditions may guide whether heat is directed to the surface. Plus and Or from minus and The target heat transfer rate between the spacer and the surface can be calculated according to the following formula:

[0068] Formula D

[0069] The method may include calculating a target heat transfer rate between the spacer and the surface The desired target interval temperature (T spcr-tgt ). The target heat transfer rate between the spacer and the surface can be (see Equation D), the thermal resistance between the surface and the space (R surf-spcr ) and the current dynamically estimated interval temperature (T spcr-est ) to determine the target interval temperature (T spcr-tgt The current dynamically estimated interval temperature (T ) may be determined as taught in U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 316,762 (which is incorporated herein by reference for all purposes). spcr-est The target heat transfer rate between the gap and the surface can be calculated according to the following formula: The desired target interval temperature (T spcr-tgt ).

[0070] Formula E

[0071] The method may include achieving a target interval temperature (T spcr-tgt ) The current dynamic estimated interval temperature (T spcr-est ) to calculate the temperature change (ΔT spcr ). The interval temperature (T spcr-est ) and target interval temperature (T spcr-tgt ) (see Equation E) to determine the temperature change (ΔT spcrThe current dynamically estimated interval temperature (T ) may be determined as taught in U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 316,762 (which is incorporated herein by reference for all purposes). spcr-est The temperature change (ΔT spcr ).

[0072] Formula FΔT spcr =T spcr-tgt -T spcr-est

[0073] As will be understood by the present teaching, the calculation process presented in equations A to E can be repeated for each layer in the system from the surface to be adjusted to one or more thermoeffectors. That is, the heat transfer and associated temperature of each layer can be determined. Typically, a spacing layer is arranged between the surface and one or more thermoeffectors. However, one or more other material layers may be present. In addition, the present teaching contemplates that one or more thermoeffectors are directly in thermal communication with the surface without an intermediate layer arranged between them.

[0074] The method may include calculating the interval temperature change rate The interval temperature change (ΔT spcr ) (see Formula F) and the time it takes to achieve the target temperature (t to-tgt ) to determine the interval temperature change rate The time taken to achieve the target temperature may be a fixed value or may vary. The time taken to achieve the target temperature may be stored in a memory storage medium. The interval temperature change rate may be calculated according to the following formula:

[0075] Formula G

[0076] The method may include calculating the temperature change rate of the interval Required target total heat transfer rate with interval The temperature change rate can be obtained from the interval (See Formula G) and the heat capacity of the interval (C spcr ) to calculate the target total heat transfer rate with interval The target total heat transfer rate with respect to the interval can be calculated according to the following formula

[0077] Formula H

[0078] The method may include calculating a target total heat transfer rate between one or more thermal effectors and a spacer layer. The total heat transfer rate can be obtained from the (see Equation H) and the heat transfer rate between the space and any other medium (e.g., surface) To calculate the target total heat transfer rate between one or more thermal effectors and the spacer layer The following formula I takes into account the negative value (e.g., heat flows from the gap to the surface). Plus The present disclosure contemplates that heat may flow from or into the space relative to the surface, and thus these conditions may guide whether heat is directed to the space. Plus Or from minus The target heat transfer rate from one or more thermal effectors to the spacer layer can be calculated according to the following formula:

[0079] Formula I

[0080] The above steps may be performed by a dedicated system controller, and the steps discussed below may be performed by a dedicated effector controller.Both the above steps and the following steps may be performed by a dedicated effector controller.

[0081] The method may include calculating a target heat transfer rate for a specific (single) thermal effector One or more thermoeffectors may act on the material layer. Where two or more thermoeffectors are employed, they may collaborate to effect heat transfer to the material layer. Multiple thermoeffectors may act in a hierarchical fashion. That is, each active thermoeffector may contribute progressively less heat transfer. Not all thermoeffectors may be active at any given time. The number of thermoeffectors active at a time may depend on the amount of temperature change required. As an example, a temperature change of 1°C may require only one thermoeffector to act, whereas a temperature change of 10°C may require two or more thermoeffectors to act.

[0082] The thermoeffectors may be in signal communication with each other to communicate their energy usage to each other. The thermoeffectors may be in signal communication with a dedicated system controller, and the dedicated system controller may communicate the energy usage of the thermoeffectors to other thermoeffectors.

[0083] The target heat transfer rate from all thermal effectors to the spacer layer can be (See Equation 1) and the target heat transfer rate relative to any other single thermal effector lower in the hierarchy To determine the target heat transfer rate relative to a single thermal effector Where the system includes two or more thermoeffectors, the thermoeffectors may cooperate to implement a set point temperature on the surface. The heat transfer rate may be equally or unequally distributed between the two or more thermoeffectors. Where the heat transfer rate is implemented unequally, the thermoeffectors may function in a hierarchy. That is, the highest thermoeffector in the hierarchy may contribute a heat transfer rate of the greatest magnitude, the next thermoeffector in the hierarchy may contribute a heat transfer rate of a smaller magnitude relative to the immediately higher level thermoeffector, and so on. It will be appreciated that any number of individual thermoeffectors (e.g., The target heat transfer rate for a specific thermal effector can be calculated according to the following formula:

[0084] Formula J

[0085] The method may include calculating a target temperature (T eff-tgt ). The heat flow rate that can be achieved from a single thermal effector (see Equation J) and the thermal resistance between the effector and the spacer (R eff-spcr ) to determine the target temperature (T eff-tgt ).

[0086] Formula K

[0087] Therefore, the thermal effector can be adjusted to achieve a target effector temperature (T eff-tgt A temperature sensor local to the thermal effector may be used to determine when a target effector temperature (T eff-tgt ).

[0088] The method may be used to adjust the temperature of an airflow. The airflow temperature may be adjusted by one or more thermoeffectors. Ultimately, the adjustment of the airflow temperature is determined by the difference between the current temperature and the set point temperature. That is, the amount of energy supplied to the thermoeffector and the amount of time for supplying the energy to implement the set point airflow temperature may be ultimately determined by the difference between the current temperature and the set point temperature.

[0089] The method may include achieving a set point airflow temperature (T air-set ) The required dynamic estimated airflow temperature (T air-est ) to calculate the air flow temperature change (ΔT air ). The airflow temperature (T air-est ) and set point temperature (T air-set ) to determine the air flow temperature change (ΔT airThe current airflow temperature (T ) may be dynamically estimated as taught in U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 316,779 (which is incorporated herein by reference for all purposes). air-est The set point temperature (T air-set The temperature change (ΔT air ).

[0090] Formula LΔT air =T air-set -T air-est

[0091] The method may include calculating the rate of change of airflow temperature It can be seen from the change of air flow temperature (ΔT air ) (see Equation L) and the time it takes to achieve the set point temperature (t to-set ) to determine the air flow temperature change rate The time taken to achieve the set point temperature may be a fixed value or may vary. The time taken to achieve the set point temperature may be stored in a memory storage medium. The airflow temperature change rate may be calculated according to the following formula:

[0092] Formula M

[0093] The method may include calculating the rate of change of airflow temperature Required target overall heat transfer rate with airflow The air flow temperature change rate can be (see Equation M) and the heat capacity of air (C air ) to determine the total heat transfer rate The total heat transfer rate can be calculated according to the following formula

[0094] Formula N

[0095] Since the heat flow rate includes a time component, the time during which heat flows between two media affects the temperature imparted to the media. In the case where the air flow travels through a pipe and / or travels on a heat exchanger, the time that a portion of the air flow contacts the medium (e.g., a pipe and / or a heat exchanger) that exchanges heat with it affects the temperature imparted to the air flow. The air flow can be generated by a blower. The blower can include a fan (e.g., a radial or axial fan). The speed of the fan can guide the speed of the air flow, and therefore guide the time that the air flow contacts the pipe, the heat exchanger, or both. The power supply to the blower can be controlled (e.g., a pulse width modulation duty cycle, a constant current control, etc.) to achieve the set point temperature.

[0096] The method may include calculating a target overall heat transfer rate between the heat exchanger and the airflow One or more heat exchangers may exchange heat with the airflow. In the case of using multiple heat exchangers, the target total heat transfer rate may be shared among the multiple heat exchangers. (See formula N), the heat transfer rate between the pipe and the airflow or any combination thereof to determine the target overall heat transfer rate between the heat exchanger and the airflow The heat transfer rate between the duct and the airflow may be determined as taught in U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 316,779 (which is incorporated herein by reference for all purposes). The following formula O takes into account the positive value (e.g., heat flowing from a duct into an air stream). minus The present disclosure contemplates that heat may flow out of or into the air stream relative to the duct, and thus these conditions may guide whether to Plus Or from minus The target heat transfer rate from the heat exchanger to the airflow can be calculated as follows:

[0097] Formula O

[0098] The method may include calculating a target total heat transfer rate between the heat exchanger and the airflow The desired target heat exchanger temperature (T exch-tgt ). The target total heat transfer rate between the heat exchanger and the airflow can be (see formula O), the thermal resistance between the heat exchanger and the airflow (R exch-air ) and the current dynamically estimated heat exchanger temperature (T exch-est ) to determine the target heat exchanger temperature (T exch-tgt The current dynamically estimated heat exchanger temperature (T ) may be determined as taught in U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 316,779 (which is incorporated herein by reference for all purposes). exch-est The target total heat transfer rate between the heat exchanger and the airflow can be calculated according to the following formula: The desired target heat exchanger temperature (T exch-tgt ).

[0099] Formula P

[0100] The method may include achieving a target heat exchanger temperature (T exch-tgt) The current dynamic estimated heat exchanger temperature (T exch-est ) to calculate the temperature change (ΔT exch The heat exchanger temperature (T exch-est ) and the target heat exchanger temperature (T exch-tgt )(see Formula P) to determine the temperature change (ΔT exch The current dynamically estimated heat exchanger temperature (T ) may be determined as taught in U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 316,779 (which is incorporated herein by reference for all purposes). exch-est The temperature change (ΔT exch ).

[0101] Formula QΔT exch =T exch-tgt -T exch-est

[0102] As will be understood by this teaching, the calculation process presented in equations L to Q can be repeated for each layer in the system. That is, the heat transfer and associated temperature of each layer can be determined from the airflow to be adjusted to one or more thermal effectors. Typically, the heat exchanger is in thermal communication with the thermal effector and the airflow. There may be one or more other layers (e.g., thermal glue between the heat exchanger and the thermal effector).

[0103] The method may include calculating the rate of change of the heat exchanger temperature The change in heat exchanger temperature (ΔT exch ) (see equation Q) and the time it takes to achieve the target temperature (t to-tgt ) to determine the rate of change of the heat exchanger temperature The time taken to achieve the target temperature may be a fixed value or may vary. The time taken to achieve the target temperature may be stored in a memory storage medium. The heat exchanger temperature change rate may be calculated according to the following formula:

[0104] Formula R

[0105] The method may include calculating the rate of change of the temperature of the heat exchanger The desired target overall heat transfer rate to the heat exchanger The rate of change of the heat exchanger temperature can be (see formula R) and the heat capacity of the heat exchanger (C exch ) to determine the target total heat transfer rate with the heat exchanger The target total heat transfer rate with the heat exchanger can be calculated according to the following formula

[0106] Formula S

[0107] The temperature change rate of the heat exchanger can be provided by one or more thermal effectors The required total heat transfer rate to the heat exchanger The method may include calculating a target temperature (T eff-tgt ). The required total heat transfer rate to the heat exchanger can be (see formula S) and the thermal resistance between the thermal effector and the heat exchanger (R eff-exch ) to determine the target temperature (T eff-tgt ).

[0108] Formula T

[0109] Therefore, the thermal effector can be adjusted to achieve a target effector temperature (T eff-tgt A temperature sensor local to the thermal effector may be used to determine when a target effector temperature (T eff-tgt ).

[0110] The airflow can be delivered to a containment device (e.g., a containment bag). The containment device can be located in a vehicle to ultimately exchange heat with the surface. As an example, the containment device can be located below the material layer, and the material layer can be arranged between the containment device and the surface.

[0111] The containment device can be used as a thermoeffector that is ultimately in thermal communication with the surface. The airflow delivered to the containment bag can be in thermal communication with one or more thermoeffectors (e.g., thermoelectric devices). The one or more thermoeffectors can be located upstream of the containment device. Therefore, both the airflow temperature control method and the surface temperature control method described herein can be used in a collaborative manner to control the surface temperature.

[0112] The surface temperature can be adjusted. Therefore, a method for surface temperature control can be used to determine a target containment device temperature. The target containment device temperature can be similar to the target effector temperature discussed above. The method can be used in an order that is the same as or different from the order disclosed above. The method can include all or at least a portion of the steps disclosed above. The target containment device temperature can be similar to the set point airflow temperature. Therefore, a method for airflow temperature control can be used to determine a target thermal effector temperature to implement the target containment device temperature. The method can be used in an order that is the same as or different from the order disclosed above. The method can include all or at least a portion of the steps disclosed above.

[0113] The above steps may be performed by a dedicated system controller, an effector controller, or both.

[0114] Figure 1 A method according to the present disclosure is shown. The method is adapted to adjust the temperature of a surface. The surface temperature is ultimately enforced by one or more thermoeffectors. As shown, a spacer layer disposed between the surface and the thermoeffector is taken into account in the methodology. The thermoeffector is in thermal communication with the spacer layer, which in turn is in thermal communication with the surface. The present disclosure contemplates that no material layer is disposed between the thermoeffector and the surface. The present disclosure contemplates that multiple material layers (e.g., including the spacer layer) are disposed between the thermoeffector and the surface.

[0115] The method includes determining a target total heat transfer rate to a surface, and using as input a surface set point temperature, a current dynamically estimated surface temperature, a target time to achieve the set point temperature, and a heat capacity of the surface.

[0116] The method includes determining a target compartment temperature required to achieve a target total heat transfer rate between the surface and the compartment, using as input the target total heat transfer rate between the surface and the compartment, the heat transfer rate between the surface and the cabin environment, the heat transfer rate between the surface and the occupant, the thermal resistance between the surface and the compartment, and a current dynamically estimated compartment temperature.

[0117] The target bay temperature is used in the following calculations. The method includes determining a target total heat transfer rate to the bay. To this end, the target bay temperature, the current dynamically estimated bay temperature, the target time to achieve the target bay temperature, and the thermal capacity of the bay are used as inputs.

[0118] The method includes determining a target total heat transfer rate between the spacer and one or more co-located thermoeffectors. To this end, the target total heat transfer rate to the spacer and the heat transfer rate between the spacer and the surface are used as inputs.

[0119] A target overall heat transfer rate between a compartment and one or more co-located thermoeffectors is used in the following calculations. The method includes determining a target heat transfer rate between a compartment and a single thermoeffector. To this end, the target heat transfer rate between the compartment and all co-located thermoeffectors and the current heat transfer rate between the compartment and certain other co-located thermoeffectors are used as inputs.

[0120] The method includes determining a target individual thermoeffector temperature required to achieve a target heat transfer rate between the spacer and the individual thermoeffector. To this end, the target heat transfer rate between the spacer and the individual thermoeffector and the thermal resistance between the thermoeffector and the spacer are used as inputs.

[0121] Figure 2A method according to the present disclosure is shown. The method is adapted to adjust the temperature of an airflow. The airflow temperature is ultimately implemented by one or more thermoeffectors. As shown, a heat exchanger arranged between the airflow and the thermoeffector is taken into account in the methodology. The thermoeffector is in thermal communication with the heat exchanger and in turn in thermal communication with the airflow. The present disclosure contemplates that no heat exchanger is arranged between the thermoeffector and the airflow.

[0122] The method includes determining a target overall heat transfer rate with the airflow, and to this end, using as inputs an airflow setpoint temperature, a current dynamically estimated airflow temperature, a target time to achieve the setpoint temperature, and a thermal capacity of the airflow.

[0123] The method includes determining a target heat exchanger temperature required to achieve a target overall heat transfer rate between the heat exchanger and the airflow, using as input the target overall heat transfer rate to the airflow, the heat transfer rate between the airflow and the pipe, the thermal resistance between the heat exchanger and the airflow, and the current dynamically estimated heat exchanger temperature.

[0124] The target heat exchanger temperature is used in the following calculations. The method includes determining a target overall heat transfer rate between the heat exchanger and the heat effector. To this end, the target heat exchanger temperature, the current dynamically estimated heat exchanger temperature, the target time to achieve the target temperature, and the heat capacity of the heat exchanger are used as inputs.

[0125] The method includes determining a target thermoeffector temperature required to achieve a target overall heat transfer rate between the heat exchanger and the thermoeffector. To this end, the thermal resistance between the thermoeffector and the heat exchanger is used as an input.

[0126] Figure 3 A thermally conditioned surface 10 is shown. Surface 10 is a trim layer in a vehicle seat 12, although any surface within a vehicle cabin is contemplated in the methods of the present disclosure. Surface 10 is thermally conditioned by a thermoeffector 14 (e.g., a resistive heater pad). Heat generated by thermoeffector 14 is ultimately conducted to surface 10. As shown, a material layer 16 (e.g., a spacer layer) is disposed between thermoeffector 14 and surface 10. The present teachings contemplate more than one material layer 16 disposed between thermoeffector 14 and surface 10 as well as no material layer 16 disposed therebetween.

[0127] Control of the thermoeffector 14 is ultimately determined by the heat transfer rate relative to the surface 10 required to achieve the set point temperature. The heat transfer rate is indicated by the labeled arrow. The set point temperature can be directed by the occupant and / or the autonomous control system. Because the surface 10 is subject to multiple different heat transfer rates relative to different elements in the system, the thermoeffector 14 can act cooperatively or in a manner to offset those different heat transfer rates. As an example, where the surface 10 is to be heated, the heat transfer from the thermoeffector 14 to the surface 10 can act cooperatively with the heat transfer from the occupant 18 to the surface 10. As another example, where the surface 10 is to be heated, the heat transfer from the thermoeffector 14 to the surface 10 can act to offset the heat transfer from the surface 10 to the cold (cold relative to the temperature of the surface 10) cabin environment 20.

[0128] Figure 4 A thermally conditioned airflow 22 is shown. As shown, the airflow 22 is exhausted from a headrest 24, but any airflow 22 emitted from an exhaust port within the cabin of a vehicle may be considered in the method of the present disclosure. The airflow 22 is thermally conditioned by a thermal effector 26 (e.g., a thermoelectric device). The heat generated by the thermal effector 26 is ultimately conducted to the airflow 22. As shown, the thermal effector 26 and the airflow 22 are thermally connected to a heat exchanger 28. The present teachings contemplate the absence of the heat exchanger 26.

[0129] The control of the thermoeffector 26 is ultimately determined by the heat transfer rate relative to the airflow 22 required to achieve the set point temperature. The heat transfer rate is indicated by the labeled arrow. The set point temperature can be directed by the occupant and / or the autonomous control system. Since the airflow 22 is subjected to multiple different heat transfer rates relative to different elements in the system, the thermoeffector 26 can act cooperatively or in a manner that offsets those different heat transfer rates. As an example, where the airflow 22 is to be heated, the heat transfer from the thermoeffector 26 to the airflow 22 can act cooperatively with the heat transfer from the duct 30 through which the airflow 22 travels to the airflow 22. As another example, where the airflow 22 is to be heated, the heat transfer from the thermoeffector 26 to the airflow 22 can act to offset the heat transfer from the airflow 22 to the cold (cold relative to the temperature of the airflow 22) duct 30.

[0130] Figure 5 The thermally conditioned airflow 32 and surface 34 are shown. The airflow 32 is thermally conditioned and delivered to a containment device 36. The containment device 36 then thermally conditions the surface 34. In effect, the containment device 36 and the Figure 3 The thermoeffector 14 shown functions similarly.

[0131] The airflow 32 is thermally conditioned by a thermoeffector 38 (e.g., a thermoelectric device). The heat generated by the thermoeffector 38 is ultimately conducted to the airflow 32. As shown, the thermoeffector 38 and the airflow 32 are in thermal communication with a heat exchanger 40. The present teachings contemplate the absence of the heat exchanger 40.

[0132] The control of the thermoeffector 38 is ultimately determined by the heat transfer rate relative to the airflow 32 required to achieve the set point temperature. The heat transfer rate is indicated by the labeled arrow. The set point temperature can be directed by the occupant and / or the autonomous control system. Since the airflow 32 is subjected to multiple different heat transfer rates relative to different elements in the system, the thermoeffector 38 can act cooperatively or in a manner to offset those different heat transfer rates. As an example, where the airflow 32 is to be heated, the heat transfer from the thermoeffector 38 to the airflow 32 can act cooperatively with the heat transfer from the duct 42 through which the airflow 32 travels to the airflow 32. As another example, where the airflow 32 is to be heated, the heat transfer from the thermoeffector 38 to the airflow 32 can act to offset the heat transfer from the airflow 32 to the cold (cold relative to the temperature of the airflow 32) duct 42.

[0133] The airflow is exhausted into a containment device 36 (e.g., a containment bag). The containment device 36 can be airtightly sealed or at least partially airtightly sealed. The containment device 36 can thermally condition the surface 34 by the airflow 22 flowing into the containment device 36. As shown, the surface 34 is a decorative layer in a vehicle seat 44, although any surface in the cabin of a vehicle is contemplated in the method of the present disclosure.

[0134] Heat generated by containment device 36 is ultimately conducted to surface 34. As shown, a material layer 46 (e.g., a spacer layer) is disposed between containment device 36 and surface 34. The present teachings contemplate more than one material layer 46 disposed between containment device 36 and surface 34 as well as no material layer 46 disposed therebetween.

[0135] Control of the airflow 32 flowing into the containment device 36 is ultimately determined by the heat transfer rate relative to the surface 34 required to achieve the set point temperature. The heat transfer rate is indicated by the labeled arrow. The set point temperature can be directed by the occupant and / or the autonomous control system. Because the surface 34 is subject to multiple different heat transfer rates relative to different elements in the system, the containment device 36 can act cooperatively or in a manner to offset those different heat transfer rates. As an example, where the surface 34 is to be heated, the heat transfer from the containment device 36 to the surface 34 can act cooperatively with the heat transfer from the occupant 48 to the surface 34. As another example, where the surface 34 is to be heated, the heat transfer from the containment device 36 to the surface 34 can act to offset the heat transfer from the surface 34 to the cold (cold relative to the temperature of the surface 34) cabin environment 50.

[0136] The explanations and illustrations presented herein are intended to familiarize other persons skilled in the art with the present invention, its principles and its practical applications. It should be understood that the above descriptions are intended to be illustrative and not restrictive. Those skilled in the art will appreciate many embodiments and many applications in addition to the examples provided when reading the above descriptions.

[0137] Therefore, the specific embodiments of the invention set forth are not intended to be exhaustive or limiting of the teachings. Accordingly, the scope of the teachings should be determined not by reference to the above description, but rather by reference to the appended claims and the full scope of equivalents to such claims. The omission of any aspect of the subject matter disclosed herein in the appended claims is neither a disclaimer of that subject matter nor an indication that the inventors do not consider that subject matter to be part of the disclosed inventive subject matter.

[0138] Multiple elements or steps may be provided using a single integrated element or step. Alternatively, a single element or step may be divided into separate multiple elements or steps.

[0139] The disclosure of "a" or "an" to describe an element or step is not intended to exclude additional elements or steps.

[0140] The method may include one or more than one step described herein. Some steps may be repeated, removed or eliminated, rearranged relative to other steps, combined into one or more than one step, divided into two or more than two steps, or a combination thereof.

[0141] The flow diagrams described herein do not imply a fixed order to the steps, and unless otherwise specified herein, embodiments of the invention may be practiced in any order that can be practiced.

[0142] Although the terms first, second, third, etc. can be used in this article to describe various elements, components, regions, layers and / or sections, these elements, components, regions, layers and / or sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms can be used to distinguish an element, component, region, layer or section from other regions, layers or sections. Unless the context clearly indicates, terms such as "first", "second", etc. and other digital terms do not imply order or sequence when used in this article. Therefore, without departing from the teaching, the first element, component, region, layer or section discussed herein can be referred to as the second element, component, region, layer or section.

[0143] For ease of description, spatially relative terms such as "inner", "outer", "beneath", "below", "lower", "above", "upper", etc. may be used herein to describe the relationship of an element or feature as shown in the figures to other (one or more) elements or (one or more) features. Spatially relative terms may be intended to cover different orientations of the device when in use or operation other than the orientation depicted in the figure. For example, if the device in the figure is turned over, the elements described as "below other elements or features" or "below other elements or features" will be oriented as "above other elements or features". Thus, the example term "below" can cover both the above and below orientations. The device can be oriented in other ways (rotated 90 degrees or in other orientations), and the spatially relative descriptors used in this article are interpreted accordingly.

[0144] Unless otherwise stated, all ranges include both endpoints and all numbers between the endpoints. The use of "about" or "approximately" in connection with a range applies to both ends of the range. Thus, "about 20 to 30" is intended to encompass "about 20 to about 30" including at least the specified endpoint.

[0145] The disclosures of all articles and documents, including patent applications and publications, are incorporated by reference for all purposes.

[0146] Reference numerals

[0147] 10 Surface

[0148] 12 Vehicle Seats

[0149] 14 Thermo-effector

[0150] 16 Material Layers

[0151] 18 Crew

[0152] 20 Cabin environment

[0153] 22 Airflow

[0154] 24 Headrest

[0155] 26 Thermo-effector

[0156] 28 Heat exchanger

[0157] 30 Pipe

[0158] 32 Airflow

[0159] 34 Surface

[0160] 36 Container

[0161] 38 Thermo-effector

[0162] 40 Heat exchanger

[0163] 42 Pipe

[0164] 44 Vehicle Seats

[0165] 46 Material Layers

[0166] 48 Crew

[0167] 50 Cabin environment

Claims

1. A method for controlling a thermal effector in a vehicle, the method comprising: calculating a heat transfer rate relative to a conditioned medium based on a set point temperature and a dynamically estimated temperature of the conditioned medium, wherein the heat transfer rate is required to achieve the set point temperature of the conditioned medium; calculating a target temperature of the thermal effector required to achieve a heat transfer rate relative to the conditioned medium; and The thermal effector is controlled to achieve the target temperature.

2. The method according to claim 1, wherein: The conditioned medium includes a surface or an air flow.

3. The method according to claim 2, wherein: The surface is on a vehicle component; wherein the vehicle component includes a steering wheel, a gear lever, a seat, a headrest, a door panel, a dashboard, a roof lining, a center console, a leg panel, a floor, or any combination thereof.

4. The method according to claim 2, wherein: The airflow is emitted from an exhaust port in or on a vehicle component; wherein the vehicle component includes a steering wheel, a gear lever, a seat, a headrest, a door panel, a dashboard, a roof lining, a center console, a leg panel, a floor, or any combination thereof.

5. The method according to claim 2 or 4, wherein: The airflow at the outlet is estimated dynamically.

6. The method according to claim 2, wherein: The airflow flows into a receiving device in a vehicle component; wherein the vehicle component includes a steering wheel, a gear lever, a seat, a headrest, a door panel, a dashboard, a roof lining, a center console, a leg panel, a floor, or any combination thereof.

7. The method according to claim 2 or 6, wherein: Airflow within the containment device is dynamically estimated.

8. A method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The method comprises: calculating a target temperature of a transfer medium required to achieve a heat transfer rate relative to the conditioned medium, the target temperature of the transfer medium being based on the heat transfer rate relative to the conditioned medium and one or more other heat transfer rates acting on the conditioned medium; and A heat transfer rate relative to the transfer medium in thermal communication with the conditioned medium is calculated based on the target temperature of the transfer medium and the dynamically estimated temperature of the transfer medium.

9. The method according to claim 8, wherein: The transfer medium comprises a material layer or a heat exchanger.

10. The method according to claim 8 or 9, wherein: The material layer is a spacer layer.

11. The method according to claim 8 or 9, wherein: The conditioned medium is the surface; and wherein the one or more other heat transfer rates acting on the surface include the heat transfer rate between the cabin environment and the surface or the heat transfer rate between the occupant and the surface, or include both the heat transfer rate between the cabin environment and the surface and the heat transfer rate between the occupant and the surface.

12. The method according to claim 8 or 9, wherein: The conditioned medium is an airflow; and wherein the one or more other heat transfer rates acting on the airflow include a heat transfer rate between a conduit through which the airflow travels and the airflow.

13. A method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The thermal effector that applies the target temperature to the conditioned medium includes a resistive element or a thermoelectric device, or both.

14. A method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: Controlling the thermoeffector to achieve the target temperature includes adjusting power to the thermoeffector (eg, adjusting pulse width modulation duty cycle, constant current control, etc.) and / or a blower speed to achieve the set point temperature.

15. A method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The set point temperature is received from an occupant via a human machine interface.

16. A method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The heat transfer rate relative to the conditioned medium is based on the difference between the temperature applied to the conditioned medium (e.g., by the thermal effector or transfer medium) and the dynamically estimated temperature of the conditioned medium, thermal resistance, surface area where heat transfer occurs, or any combination thereof.

17. A method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The heat transfer rate relative to the transport medium is based on the difference between the temperature applied to the transport medium (eg, by the thermal effector) and the dynamically estimated temperature of the transport medium, thermal resistance, surface area where heat transfer occurs, or any combination thereof.

18. A method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The thermoeffector and one or more other thermoeffectors cooperate to effectuate a heat transfer rate relative to the conditioned medium.

19. The method according to claim 18, wherein: The method comprises: calculating a total heat transfer rate required from the thermoeffector and the one or more other thermoeffectors to achieve a set point temperature of the conditioned medium; and The total heat transfer rate is divided equally or unequally between the thermoeffector and the one or more other thermoeffectors.

20. The method according to claim 18 or 19, wherein: Calculating a target temperature of the thermoeffector required to effectuate a heat transfer rate relative to the conditioned medium includes separately calculating the target temperature of the one or more other thermoeffectors based on respective portions of the total heat transfer rate attributable to the thermoeffector and the one or more other thermoeffectors.

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