Air distribution device

Abstract

An air distribution device for a vehicle seat comprises a top cover, a bottom cover and an air moving device. The top cover comprises one or more ports; a bottom cover connected to the top cover to form a housing, the bottom cover including an opening; the air moving device includes an impeller located in the housing between the top cover and the bottom cover, air being drawn by the air moving device through an opening in the bottom cover into the housing and then discharged from the housing through one or more ports in the top cover.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims priority to US 63 / 356,763, filed on June 29, 2022, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference for all purposes. Technical Field

[0003] These teachings relate to an air distribution device and to a vehicle seat having an air distribution device. Background Art

[0004] Some vehicle seats include one or more features for enhancing occupant comfort. For example, some vehicle seats include one or more conditioning systems for directing warm, cool, and / or ambient air toward or away from an occupant of the vehicle seat. The conditioning system may include an air moving device and an air distribution device configured to distribute or collect the air flow generated by the air moving device.

[0005] While some currently available regulation systems are suitable for their intended purposes, it may be desirable to improve the current state of the art.

[0006] For example, some air moving devices are connected to the air distribution device via one or more hoses, fittings, and / or clamps. It may be desirable to have an improved air distribution device that does not require one or more hoses, fittings, or clamps to connect the air moving device to the air distribution device. Instead, for example, it may be desirable to have an air moving device that is directly connected to the air distribution device and / or an air moving device that includes an integrated air distribution device. Having such an air distribution device may have many advantages, including reducing product assembly time, weight, and packaging space.

[0007] Some air distribution devices include a housing having one or more layers inside the housing. The one or more inner layers may be configured or designed to prevent the housing from collapsing under the weight of an occupant or object in a vehicle seat. It may be desirable to have an improved air distribution device having a housing without such inner layers. Having such an air distribution device may have many advantages, including, for example, reducing product assembly time, weight, cost, and packaging space. Summary of the invention

[0008] These teachings provide an air distribution device. The air distribution device can be added or incorporated into the construction of a vehicle seat. The air distribution device can include: a cover, an opposing cover, and an air moving device; the cover includes one or more ports; the opposing cover is connected to the cover to form a housing, the opposing cover includes an opening; the air moving device includes an impeller, the impeller is positioned in the housing between the cover and the opposing cover; wherein air is drawn by the air moving device through the opening in the opposing cover into the housing and then exhausted from the housing through one or more ports in the cover.

[0009] These teachings provide an air distribution device for a vehicle seat, comprising: a cover, an opposing cover, and an air moving device; the cover includes one or more ports; the opposing cover is connected to the cover to form a housing, and the opposing cover includes an opening; the air moving device includes an impeller, and the impeller is at least partially located in the housing between the cover and the opposing cover and at least partially located below the opposing cover; wherein air is drawn by the air moving device through one or more ports in the cover into the housing and then discharged from the housing through the opening in the opposing cover.

[0010] The covers and / or opposing covers described herein may also be referred to herein as bottom covers, top covers, side covers, opposing side covers, or combinations thereof. The description of the covers may be based on the orientation of the air distribution device before the air distribution device is added to or installed in a vehicle seat or other mounting location or after the air distribution device is added to or installed in a vehicle seat or other mounting location. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0011] Figure 1 A side view of the vehicle.

[0012] Figure 2 is a perspective view of a vehicle seat.

[0013] Figure 3 is a top or front perspective view of an air distribution unit.

[0014] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 A bottom or rear perspective view of an air distribution device.

[0015] Figure 5 yes Figure 3 and Figure 4 Exploded perspective view of an air distribution device.

[0016] Figure 6 yes Figure 3 and Figure 4 A perspective view of the exterior of a top cover or front cover of an air distribution device.

[0017] Figure 7 yes Figure 3 and Figure 4A perspective view of the interior of a top cover or front cover of an air distribution device.

[0018] Figure 8 yes Figure 3 and Figure 4 A perspective view of the interior of a bottom cover or rear cover of an air distribution device.

[0019] Fig. 9 yes Figure 3 and Figure 4 A perspective view of the exterior of the bottom cover or rear cover of an air distribution device.

[0020] Fig.10 yes Figure 3 and Figure 4 A cross-sectional view of an air distribution device.

[0021] Fig.11 Installed in the vehicle seat Figure 3 and Figure 4 A cross-sectional view of an air distribution device.

[0022] Fig.12 is a top or front perspective view of an air distribution unit.

[0023] Fig.13 yes Fig.12 A bottom or rear perspective view of an air distribution device.

[0024] Fig.14 yes Fig.12 and Fig.13 Exploded perspective view of an air distribution device.

[0025] Fig.15 yes Fig.12 and Fig.13 A three-dimensional cross-sectional view of an air distribution device.

[0026] Fig.16 is a top or front perspective view of an air distribution system.

[0027] Fig.17 yes Fig.16 Bottom or rear perspective view of an air distribution system.

[0028] Fig.18 yes Fig.16 and Fig.17 Exploded perspective view of an air distribution device.

[0029] Fig.19 yes Fig.16 and Fig.17 Exploded perspective view of an air distribution device.

[0030] Fig. 20 yes Fig.16 and Fig.17 A cross-sectional view of an air distribution device;

[0031] Fig.21 is a top or front perspective view of an air distribution unit.

[0032] Fig. 22 is a bottom or rear perspective view of an air distribution unit.

[0033] Fig.23 yes Fig.21 and Fig. 22 A perspective view of the exterior of the housing of an air distribution device.

[0034] Fig.24 yes Fig.21 and Fig. 22 A perspective view of the interior of a housing of an air distribution device.

[0035] Fig.25 It is a perspective view of an air distribution device.

[0036] Fig.26 yes Fig.25 A three-dimensional view of an air distribution device. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0037] These teachings provide an air distribution device. The air distribution device is illustrated and described herein with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that the drawings are merely exemplary in nature and are provided to explain the structure, elements and features of the air distribution device and their related functions. In this regard, the features or elements illustrated and described in the drawings may be rearranged, eliminated, copied and / or reconfigured and still within the scope of the teachings. In addition, it is contemplated that one or more features or elements from an exemplary drawing may be copied, rearranged and / or reconfigured and subsequently added to other features in another drawing. In this regard, the orientation, placement and / or size of the features or elements in the drawings should not be considered as rigid requirements. Further, unless otherwise indicated, the description related to the structure and / or function of the features in one figure may be applied to the structure and / or function of the related features in another figure.

[0038] It should also be understood that the top cover or layer of any air distribution device disclosed herein can be replaced with any other illustrated and / or described top cover or layer of the air distribution device. Similarly, the bottom cover or layer of any air distribution device can be replaced with any other illustrated and / or described bottom cover or layer of the air distribution device. Non-limiting examples of this are Figure 3 The top cover or layer 104 shown and described may be used Fig.12The top cover or layer 104 shown and described is substituted, and vice versa. The same applies to any air mover. In addition, although the layer or cover is described as "top", it should be understood that the same cover or layer can be "bottom", and this can depend on the orientation of the air distribution device before or after installation in the final position, such as a vehicle seat or any other adjustable seat (i.e., non-vehicle seat).

[0039] Figure 1 A vehicle 10 is illustrated. The vehicle 10 includes seats 12. The seats 12 may be front vehicle seats 14. The vehicle seats 12 may be rear vehicle seats 16. Although the description herein focuses on incorporating an air distribution device into a vehicle seat, it should be understood that the air distribution device may also or alternatively be added or installed in a non-vehicle seat, such as an office chair, wheelchair, couch, sofa, recliner, bed, or other seat support device. Further, although the teaching focuses on the vehicle 10 being an automobile, the vehicle may be any vehicle, such as an airplane, train, boat, ATV, UTV, motorcycle, etc.

[0040] Figure 2 The seat 12 is illustrated. The vehicle seat 12 includes a back portion 18 and a seat portion 20. The back portion 18 includes a frame and / or suspension 22 for supporting a cushion 24. The seat portion 20 includes a frame and / or suspension 22 for supporting a cushion 24. The frame and / or suspension 22 can be the same for both the back portion 18 and the seat portion 20, or the frame and / or suspension 22 can be different components. Similarly, the cushion 24 can be the same for both the back portion 18 and the seat portion 20, or the cushion 24 can be different, separate components.

[0041] The vehicle seat 12 may include one or more air distribution devices 100. The air distribution device 100 may be located in the back portion 18. The air distribution device 100 may be located in the seat portion 20. The air distribution device 100 may be mounted or fastened to the frame suspension 22 and / or to the cushion 24 of the back portion 18 and / or the seat portion 20 of the vehicle seat 12. The air distribution device 100 may be located at the A side of the cushion 24, at the opposite B side of the cushion 24, or within the thickness of the cushion 24, between the A side and the B side. A cover, trim layer, cushion or other layer 25 may be provided in front of and / or behind the air distribution device 100.

[0042] Figure 3 and Figure 4An air distribution device 100 is illustrated. The air distribution device 100 includes a housing 102. The housing 102 may include a first or top cover or layer 104, an opposing second or bottom cover or layer 106, and an interior space 107 defined therebetween.

[0043] The top cover or layer 104 and the bottom cover or layer 106 can be made of a substantially rigid material. The top cover 104 and / or the bottom cover 106 can be made of a substantially flexible material. The top cover 104 and / or the bottom cover 106 can be made of plastic, metal, composite material, biodegradable material or printed material. For example, the top cover or layer and / or the bottom cover or layer can be made of polypropylene, nylon, polyethylene, polystyrene, acrylic acid, polyvinyl chloride, polyethylene terephthalate, low-density polyethylene, HDPE, aluminum, steel or a combination thereof. The top cover and / or the bottom cover can be formed via a plastic injection molding process, a stamping process, a printing process, a 3D printing process or a combination thereof. In some configurations, the top cover 104 and / or the bottom cover 106 can be made of a fabric material. The fabric material can be taped, welded or otherwise connected to another. For example, the bottom cover 106 may be made of a fabric material and then taped or welded to the top cover 104, which may be made of a rigid material, or vice versa. In some configurations, the top cover or layer or the bottom cover or layer may be eliminated. This means that the shell will be composed of only the top or bottom layer, and the omitted layer may be derived from another adjacent structure or feature, such as the cushioning or trim or suspension of a vehicle seat. In some configurations, the top cover or layer or the bottom cover or layer may be integrated. This means that the top cover or layer and the bottom cover or layer are a single integral element. For example, the shell may be formed from a single cover or layer, which is then folded, which then causes the top cover or layer and the bottom cover or layer to be formed due to their orientation (see, for example, FIG. 2 ). Fig.23 and Fig.24 ). Any of the above descriptions and / or the following descriptions may apply to any housing or air distribution device disclosed herein.

[0044] The top cover or layer 104 and the bottom cover or layer 106 can be combined together with one or more fasteners. One or more fasteners can extend into one or both of the cover or layer 104,106 and / or extend through one or both of the cover or layer 104,106. Additionally or alternatively, the cover or layer 104,106 can be combined together via one or more fasteners at its periphery or edge 109. For example, these edges or peripheries can be combined together by welding, RF welding, adhesive tape, double-sided tape, adhesive, lamination, pressure-sensitive adhesive, one or more mechanical fasteners or a combination thereof. In fact, any fastener can be used to connect and / or maintain two housings together.

[0045] Air distribution device 100 may include air moving device 108. Air moving device 108 may be a fan, a centrifugal fan, a 360 degree fan, and / or a radiant fan. Air moving device may also be referred to as a blower, a blowing device, a suction device, a ventilator, or any other device for generating air flow.

[0046] The air moving device 108 may include one or more impellers 110. The impeller 110 may include one or more blades or fins configured to rotate about a central axis A of the air distribution device 100 or blower 108 or impeller 110.

[0047] As will be discussed further below, the air distribution device 100, the air moving device 108, and / or the impeller 110 may be operated in a push mode, in which the impeller 110 rotates about the axis A and draws air through one of the covers (i.e., the bottom cover 106) into the housing 102, and then exhausts the drawn air through the other cover (i.e., the top cover 104), or vice versa. In some configurations, the impeller 110 may be operated in a push mode, in which the impeller 110 rotates about the axis A and draws air through one of the covers (i.e., the top cover 104) into the housing 102, and then exhausts the drawn air through the other cover (i.e., the bottom cover 106) or exhausts the drawn air out of the area between the top cover and the bottom cover.

[0048] Air distribution device 100 and / or air moving device 108 may include connector 112. Connector 112 may electrically connect air distribution device 100 and / or air moving device 108 to controller 114. Controller 114 may be or may be part of a computer or processor associated with a vehicle seat, an air conditioning system, a vehicle, or a combination thereof. Controller 114 may function to turn air distribution device 100 and / or air moving device 108 on and / or off and / or control the speed and / or temperature of air exhausted from air moving device 100 and / or the duration and / or frequency of operation of air moving device 108.

[0049] Figure 5 The air distribution device 100 is shown. The first or top cover 104 may have a generally flat base including an opening 116 through which a portion 118 of the air moving device 108 is configured to extend (see FIG. Figure 3). The opening 116 can be centered between the top and bottom edges of the cover 104 and / or the lateral side edges of the cover 104. In other configurations, the opening 116 can be offset toward one or more edges of the cover 104.

[0050] In some configurations, the opening 116 may be eliminated and the portion 118 of the air moving device 108 may be covered or encapsulated by the top cover. In some configurations, the portion 118 of the air moving device 108 may be integrated with the top cover 104. This may mean that the air moving device 108 or the housing 130 of the air moving device includes the top cover 104. The portion 118 may include at least a portion of the impeller, the electronics of the connector 112, a cover, cap or layer covering the impeller, or a combination thereof.

[0051] The first or top cover 104 may include one or more ports or orifices 120. The air flow generated by the air moving device 108 may be discharged from the housing 102 through the one or more ports or orifices 120. In some configurations, when the air distribution device 100 is operated in a reverse mode or a pull mode, the air flow may be directed into the housing 102 via the one or more ports 120 and then collected in the open space 107 of the housing 102 before being discharged from the housing 102. The top cover 104 may include one or more mounting holes 122. The one or more ports or orifices 120 may be evenly distributed on the cover 104 (i.e., symmetrical about the various axes of the cover 104 and / or the housing 102). The one or more ports or orifices 120 may be unevenly distributed on the cover 104 (i.e., asymmetrical about the various axes of the cover 104 and / or the housing 102). This means that the one or more ports or orifices 120 may be provided in virtually any position, spacing, pattern or orientation depending on the desired air flow and power. In addition, the size of one or more ports 120 may be the same for all ports 120, or the size may be different. Again, this may depend on the desired air flow and power in certain areas. The ports 120 may be circular or may be any other shape, such as oval, oblong, square, rectangular, slotted, etc. The ports 120 may include one or more grids or screens above them to direct the air flow and / or prevent dust or debris from entering the housing 102, 107. This understanding related to the size, shape, and location of the ports applies to all examples of air distribution devices disclosed herein.

[0052] The bottom cover 106 may have a generally flat base including an opening 124 through which air may be drawn into the housing 102 via a rotating impeller of the air moving device 108. In some configurations, the air moving device 108 ( Figure 5) may be integrated with bottom cover 106. This may mean that air moving device 108 or housing 130 includes bottom cover 106 for direct attachment to air moving device 108. Again, the shape, size, and location of opening 124 may vary, as disclosed above with respect to opening 116.

[0053] The second or bottom cover 106 and / or the top cover 104 may include an air guide structure or rib structure 126 surrounding the opening 124. The air guide structure or rib structure 126 may be located in the interior 107 of the housing 102. The air guide structure or rib structure 126 may be configured to direct the air flow in the direction of one or more ports 120. By ensuring that the air generated by the air moving device 108 is directed to the one or more ports 120, the air flow can be discharged toward the occupant of the vehicle seat, which can help increase the efficiency of the air distribution device. In some configurations, the air guide structure or ribs can also form a seal between the top cover 104 and the bottom cover 106 so that the generated air flow does not leak or escape between the two covers or layers 104, 106. In this regard, after the housing 102 is assembled, the air guide structure or rib structure can be at least partially collapsed or compressed between the two generally flat structures of the covers 104, 106. The bottom cover 106 may include one or more mounting holes 128 or bosses. The air guide structure or rib structure can be made of a plastic material. The air guide structure or rib structure may be made of rubber or sealing member or foam. The air guide structure or rib structure may be made of rigid or flexible or compressible material. The air guide structure or rib structure may be made of the same material or a different material as the top shell and / or bottom shell.

[0054] The air moving device 108 includes a housing or bracket 130. The air moving device 108 may include one or more mounting holes or mounting flanges 132.

[0055] To assemble the air distribution device 100, one or more fasteners 134 may be directed into and / or through the mounting holes or bosses 122, 132, 128 in the top cover 104, the air moving device 108, and the bottom cover 106. Opposing substantially flat areas or flanges 127 of the top cover 104 and the bottom cover 106 may be in contact with one of them. In some configurations, one or more fasteners (i.e., adhesives, sealants, seals, etc.) may be provided between the substantially flat areas 127. This may help ensure the structural integrity of the housing after it is assembled. This may also help ensure that the air flow directed into the housing does not leak or escape between the two covers 104, 106, but rather is discharged from one or more ports or orifices 120.

[0056] When the two covers 104, 106 are brought together, the top surface 129 of the air guide structure or rib structure 126 contacts the inner surface of the top cover 104. In some configurations, the air guide structure or rib structure 126 can be compressed between the two covers 104, 106. In some configurations, a slight gap or spacing can be defined between the top surface 129 of the air guide structure or rib structure 126 and the inner surface of the top cover 104.

[0057] In some configurations, the air guide structure or rib structure 126 may also or alternatively be provided on the inner surface of the top cover 104. In such a configuration, the air guide structure or rib structure 126 may function in a similar manner to the air guide structure or rib structure 126 provided on the bottom cover 106 described above.

[0058] After the device 100 is assembled, one or more cables or wires 131 connecting the air distribution device 108 to the connector 112 can be routed between the two cover halves 104, 106. In this regard, an opening or recessed area can be provided at or within one or both cover halves 104, 106 to allow one or more cables or wires 131 to pass between the cover halves 104, 106. Preferably, the opening or recessed area allows one or more cables or wires 131 to pass between the two parts 104, 106 without allowing a large amount of air flow to escape between them. In other configurations, one or more cables or wires 131 can extend out of the opening 116 (such as in Figure 3 ) or through one or more ports or openings 120, which may be used solely for passing cables or wires 131, or may also be used to direct air into and / or out of the housing 102.

[0059] Figure 6 and Figure 7 A first or top cover 104 is illustrated. The top cover 104 may have a generally flat and / or rectangular shape. However, in other configurations, the top cover 104 may have another shape, such as a square, a circle, an oval, a diamond, or any other polygonal shape. In other configurations, the shape may have any number of curved sides. The top cover 104 may have a concave or convex shape or structure, which may depend on the air flow generated and / or the environment in which the air distribution device is intended to be installed.

[0060] The first or top cover 104 may include a flange 136. The flange 136 may surround the periphery of the cover 104. A generally vertical or upright wall 138 may be defined between the flange 136 and the top surface 140. The top surface 140 includes an opening 116 and one or more ports 120. The wall 138 may be generally vertical relative to the flange 136 and / or the top surface 140; however, in some configurations, the wall 138 may be arranged at a non-vertical angle relative to the flange 136 and / or the top surface 140. In some configurations, the wall 138 may include one or more ports 120. In some configurations, the wall 138 may be eliminated and the flange 136 and the top surface 140 may be arranged in the same plane. In some configurations, the flange 136 may be eliminated.

[0061] The wall 138 may have a height that generally corresponds to the height of the air guide structure or rib structure 126 illustrated and discussed in the above figures. This may allow the air guide structure or rib structure 126 to be uncompressed or only slightly compressed when the two cover halves are brought together.

[0062] The opening 116 in the top cover 104 can be generally circular as shown. In other configurations, the opening 116 can have another shape, such as a square, an ellipse, a diamond or any other polygonal shape. In other configurations, the opening 116 can have any number of curved sides.

[0063] The opening 116 may be centered along the horizontal axis H and / or the vertical axis V. In other configurations, the opening 116 may be offset from one or both of the axes H, V. The opening 116 may be centered about the central axis A ( Figure 5 Alternatively, in some configurations, opening 116 may be offset from central axis A. Opening 116 may allow at least a portion of air moving device 108 to extend through after assembly of device 100. In other configurations, opening 116 may serve a similar purpose as port 120.

[0064] The first or top cover 104 can have one or more ports 120. The air flow generated by the air moving device 108 can be discharged from the housing 102 through the one or more ports 120. The one or more ports 120 in the top cover 104 can be generally circular as shown. In other configurations, the one or more ports 120 can have another shape, such as a square, an oval, a diamond, or any other polygonal shape. In other configurations, the one or more ports 120 can have any number of curved sides. In other configurations, air can be drawn into the housing through the one or more ports 107.

[0065] One or more ports 120 may be connected to a seat cushion 24 ( Fig.11) is aligned with one or more pipes or vents 26, 28 in the top cover 104. One or more ports 120 can be aligned along an axis H' that deviates from and is generally parallel to the horizontal axis H. One or more ports 120 can be aligned along an axis V' that deviates from and is generally parallel to the vertical axis V. In other configurations, one or more ports 120 can be randomly spaced apart on the top cover 104. In some configurations, the ports 120 can be arranged radially around the opening 116. In some configurations, the central opening 116 can be the port 120. One or more ports 120 can have a common size and shape. In some configurations, the size and shape of the port 120 can be different. For example, a larger size port 120 can be preferred in some areas to allow a larger amount of air to flow out of the port 120. For example, a smaller size port 120 can be preferred in some areas to allow a lower amount of air to flow out of the port 120.

[0066] Upright or vertical flanges or fittings 142 may surround one or more of the ports 120. The flanges or fittings 142 may raise or extend the ports 120 above the top surface 140 of the top cover 104. The flanges 142 may be used to connect the air distribution device 100 to the cushion 24 or seat cushion ( Fig.11 ). That is, the flange 142 can be received into a port or fitting or opening defined in the cushion 24. In some configurations, one or more of the flanges 142 can be eliminated. The flange 142 can have the same shape as the port 120 or a different shape. The flange 142 can be configured to lock the cover 104 and / or the device 100 to the cushion 24. In this regard, the size of the flange 142 can be slightly larger than the mating fitting or port in the cushion 24 to provide an interference fit to ensure that the device 100 is retained or connected to the cushion 24.

[0067] The layout of the mounting holes 122 in the top cover 104 can be generally aligned with each other along a horizontal axis and / or a vertical axis. In some configurations, the mounting holes 122 can be arranged to be offset or staggered with respect to one or more of the axes.

[0068] Features or geometries of the first or top cover 104 may be generally symmetrical about or relative to the horizontal axis H and / or the vertical axis V. In some configurations, features or geometries of the top cover 104 may be asymmetrical about or relative to the horizontal and / or vertical axis V.

[0069] Figure 8 and Fig. 9A second or bottom cover 106 is shown. The bottom cover 106 may have a generally flat and rectangular shape. However, in other configurations, the bottom cover 106 may have another shape, such as a square, a circle, an oval, a diamond, or any other polygonal shape. In other configurations, the shape may have any number of curved sides. The bottom cover 106 may have the same size, shape, geometry, and / or configuration as the first or top cover 104.

[0070] The opening 124 in the bottom cover 106 can be centered along the horizontal axis H and / or the vertical axis V of the bottom cover 106. In other configurations, the opening 124 can be offset from one or both of the axes H, V. The opening 124 can be centered about the central axis A ( Figure 5 ). Or in some configurations, the opening 124 may be offset from the central axis A. The opening 124 in the bottom cover may be aligned with the opening 116 in the top cover along the axis A. In some configurations, the openings 124, 116 may be offset from each other about the axis A. The bottom cover 106 may have one or more openings 124. The opening 124 may have the same size and / or shape as the opening 116 in the first cover 104. The openings 124, 116 may be generally aligned along the axis A or may be offset from each other.

[0071] The bottom cover 106 may include an inner surface 144. The inner surface 144 may face the inner surface or first or top cover 104. The inner surface 144 may face the interior of the housing 102. The inner surface 144 may include an air guide structure or rib structure 126. The rib structure may surround the opening 124. The rib structure 126 may surround one or more ports 120 in the top cover 104. The rib structure 126 may have a structure for guiding or directing air flow from the air moving device 108 to one or more ports 120. The rib structure 126 may be arranged to guide or direct approximately the same amount of air to the ports 120. The rib structure 126 may be arranged to guide or direct more air to some of the ports 120 and less air to other ports 120. The rib structure 126 may be a continuous structure. A continuous structure means that there are no breaks or gaps in the rib structure. In some configurations, the rib structure 126 may have one or more breaks or end areas where the rib structure is not positioned. In some configurations, the height of the continuous rib structure 126 can be substantially uniform. In some configurations, the height of the continuous rib structure 126 can vary. For example, there can be one or more regions 148 where the height of the rib structure is lower than the height of other regions 150, which may include ribs or other raised structures. For example, there can be one or more regions where the rib structure ends and begins in another region.

[0072] The rib structure 126 may include one or more petals 152. The petals 152 may be geometrically shaped areas of the rib structure 126 that surround the port 120 in the top cover 104 after the covers 104, 106 are connected together. The petals 152 may have a circular shape; however, the shape may be virtually any shape. Preferably, the shape causes air to be directed or guided to the port 120.

[0073] The rib structure 126 may include an apex 154. The apex 154 may be an area of ​​the rib structure 126 where two or more petals 152 are joined together. The apex 154 may be generally aligned along the horizontal axis H. Alternatively, the apex 154' may be generally offset from the horizontal axis H. The placement or arrangement of the apex 154 may be specified to direct the appropriate circumference of the air flow to one or more ports 120.

[0074] In some configurations, the rib structure 126 may additionally or alternatively be positioned on the top cover 104, such as at Figure 7 On the inner surface shown in .

[0075] The features or geometry of the bottom cover 106 may be generally symmetrical about the horizontal axis H and / or the vertical axis V. In some configurations, the features or geometry of the bottom cover 106 may be asymmetrical about the horizontal axis H and / or the vertical axis V.

[0076] An outer surface 156 of the bottom cover 106 opposite the inner surface 144 may include a flange 158. The flange 158 may surround the opening 124. The flange 158 may provide space to accommodate the impeller 110 of the air moving device 108 (see Fig.10 ). However, the air moving device 108 and / or the impeller 110 can be configured to fit within the housing 102 such that the flange 158 is not required. In some configurations, the flange 158 can be part of the housing 130 of the air moving device 108. The flange 158 can be integrally formed with the bottom cover 106. In other configurations, the flange 158 can be attached to the cover via one or more fasteners.

[0077] See now Fig.10 , after the housing 102 is assembled or connected together to form the first cover 104 and the second cover 106, the flange 136 of the top cover 104 contacts the inner surface 144 of the bottom cover 106. The air distribution device 100 may include fasteners or seals in the area where the flange 136 connects to the bottom cover 106. The fasteners or seals may reduce, minimize, or eliminate air flow leakage between the two cover halves 104, 106 and / or prevent the two halves 104, 106 from separating.

[0078] The rib structure 126 may have a height extending from the inner surface 144 of the bottom cover 106 to the inner surface 152 of the top cover 104. The rib structure 124 may contact the inner surface 151 of the top cover 104. In some configurations, the rib structure 126 may be shorter than the inner surface 151 of the top cover 104 so that the top of the rib structure 126 does not contact the inner surface 151 of the top cover 104. In some configurations, the rib structure 126 may contact the inner surface 151 of the top cover 104, and may not contact the inner surface 151 of the top cover 104 in other areas. The rib structure 126 may be used to guide the air flow inside the housing 102 between the impeller and the port 120. The rib structure 126 may be used to limit or prevent the housing 102 from collapsing or being crushed under the weight of an occupant or object in a vehicle seat. The rib structure 126 may be used to maintain the spacing of the interior area of ​​the housing 102.

[0079] The air distribution device 100 may include fasteners or seals in the area where the rib structure 126 contacts the inner surface 151 of the top cover 104 to reduce or minimize air flow leakage to undesired locations. The fasteners may include welds, RF welds, adhesive tape, sealing tape, etc. The fasteners or seals may be located in the area between the inner surfaces of the covers 104, 106. The fasteners or seals may be located in the peripheral area of ​​the covers 104, 106.

[0080] The rib structure 126 may limit or prevent collapse of the housing 102 , for example, under the weight of an occupant or load in a vehicle seat.

[0081] The housing 102 or interior space 107 may not have any layers or structures between the two halves 104, 106. The housing 102 or interior space 107 may not have any layers or structures between the two halves 104, 106 except for the rib structure 126, the impeller and / or the housing of the air moving device 108.

[0082] Fig.11 The air distribution device 100 is shown installed in a vehicle seat. The air distribution device 100 can be attached to the cushion 24 and / or the frame or suspension 22 of the vehicle seat. The air distribution device 100 can be received in a depression or recess formed in the bottom or B side of the cushion 24, or can be attached or supported on the B side of the cushion 24. The cushion can be part of the backrest portion and / or the seat portion, as described above in Figure 2The air distribution device 100 may be attached to the cushion and / or frame or suspension 22 via one or more fasteners (e.g., one or more pins, push pins, screws, tape, double-sided tape, adhesive, clips, or a combination thereof). In other configurations, the air distribution device 100 may be located at the opposite A side of the cushion, under the cushion layer and / or trim or cover layer. In such a configuration, the air flow will not need to pass through the thickness of the cushion 24.

[0083] During use, a computer or processor of the vehicle seat and / or vehicle may turn on the air moving device and rotate the impeller. This may be in response to a user or operator request to activate an associated comfort system. Air A may be drawn into the housing 102 via the rotating impeller 110 of the air moving device 108 via one or more openings 124 in the bottom cover 106. Air A is then directed by the rib structure 126 to one or more ports 120 in the top cover 104. The flange 142 surrounding the port 120 may be received in a tube 26 extending through the thickness of the cushion 24. The air flow AF may leave the housing 102 via one or more ports 120 and may be directed into the corresponding tube 26. The air flow AF may then flow through the opening 28 defined in the cushion 24 toward the occupant in the vehicle seat. This may be referred to as a push configuration or operation of the air moving device and / or air distribution device. The exhausted air may be ambient. In other configurations, the exhausted air may be conditioned, meaning that it is higher or lower than the ambient temperature. Conditioned air may be heated or cooled by passing the air through a suitable air conditioner (ie, a heating or cooling device).

[0084] In some configurations, the air distribution device 100 and / or the air moving device 108 may be operated in a reverse mode or a pull mode or configuration. In such a configuration, air may be drawn into the housing 102 through one or more ports 120, collected in the open space 108, and then exhausted from the housing 102 via one or more openings 124 in the bottom cover 106.

[0085] It should be understood that any feature, structure, element or portion of the air distribution device disclosed herein may be duplicated, eliminated, separated, added, rearranged. In addition, any feature, structure, element or portion of the air distribution device 100 may be added to the air distribution device 200, and vice versa.

[0086] Fig.12 and Fig.13 An air distribution device 100 is illustrated. Fig.12 and Fig.13 The air distribution device may be substantially similar to the above and / or Figure 3 and Figure 4The air distribution device 100 is shown and described. Therefore, unless otherwise indicated, Figure 3 and Figure 4 The description can be applied to Fig.12 and Fig.13 The air distribution device 100 (and / or any other distribution device disclosed herein) of the present invention may be used to distribute the air to the user, or vice versa. The air distribution device 100 includes a housing 102. The housing 102 may include a first top cover or layer 104, an opposing second bottom cover or layer 106, and an interior space 107 defined between the first top cover or layer 104 and the opposing second bottom cover or layer 106.

[0087] The top cover or layer 104 and the bottom cover or layer 106 may be joined together using one or more fasteners. The one or more fasteners may be one or more of any fasteners disclosed herein or may include one or more of any fasteners disclosed herein. Fig.14 To better illustrate, one or more fasteners may include one or more forks, tabs or projections 119 configured to engage one or more corresponding apertures or recesses 121 in the opposing cover. For example, the top cover 104 may include one or more forks, tabs or projections 119, and the bottom cover 106 may include one or more apertures or recesses 121 for the forks, tabs or projections 119 to engage or snap into. Of course, one or more forks, tabs or projections 119 may alternatively or also be included on the bottom cover 106, and one or more corresponding apertures 121 may alternatively or also be included on the top cover 104. This may additionally or alternatively use screws or other fastening techniques. Using projections 119 may advantageously reduce cost, assembly time, weight, or a combination thereof compared to screws.

[0088] The first or top cover 104 may include one or more attachment features 123. The attachment features 123 may be structures configured to attach the housing 100 to a vehicle seat and / or one or more components of a vehicle seat. For example, the one or more attachment features 123 may be clips or clamps configured to engage or connect the dispensing device 100 to a seat cushion, a seat frame, a seat suspension, or a combination thereof. Fig.14In the example shown, the attachment feature 123 is a channel, slot, clamp or groove configured to engage wires or other structures of a seat frame or suspension. In other configurations, one or more attachment features 123 may be pins, fasteners, adhesives, double-sided tape, hook and loop fasteners, pressure sensitive tape or adhesives, or combinations thereof. The first or top cover 104 may include an opening or aperture 125 through which the cables or wires 132 may pass or extend.

[0089] Air distribution device 100 may include air moving device 108. Air distribution device 100 and / or air moving device 108 may include connector 112. Connector 112 may electrically connect air distribution device 100 and / or air moving device 108 to a controller. The controller may be or may be part of a computer or processor associated with a vehicle seat, an air conditioning system, a vehicle, or a combination thereof. The controller may function to turn air distribution device 100 and / or air moving device 108 on and / or off and / or control the speed and / or temperature of air exhausted from air moving device 100 and / or the duration and / or frequency of air moving device 108 operation.

[0090] The second or bottom cover 106 may include one or more air guide structures or rib structures 126. The one or more air guide structures or rib structures 126 may also be referred to as one or more baffles. The one or more air guide structures, rib structures, or baffles 126 may have similar structure and / or function to the baffles illustrated and described in applicant's co-owned PCT publication WO 2019 / 112823A1 (PCT / US2018 / 062425 filed on November 26, 2018), the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference for all purposes. For example, the one or more air guide structures or rib structures or baffles 126 may have similar structure and / or function to element 62 of the above-mentioned PCT publication WO 2019 / 112823A1. Fig.11 B. Fig.11 C. Fig.12 B. Fig.12 C has a similar size, structure, shape, orientation and / or position to the baffle 62 shown in FIG.

[0091] The one or more air guide structures or rib structures 126 may have similar purposes and / or functions as those illustrated and described above in the previous figures, including directing or guiding air flow to the one or more ports 120. Figure 6 Compared to the continuous air guide structure or rib structure 126, Fig.14 and Fig.15One or more air guide structures or rib structures 126 in the embodiment are discontinuous. Discontinuous means that there is a space or gap between adjacent rib structures 126 or baffles. One or more air guide structures or rib structures 126 may include virtually any shape. For example, one or more air guide or rib structures 126 may have a teardrop shape or arrow shape, wherein one end of the structure 126 is smaller than or narrower than the opposite end of the structure 126. Other air guide or rib structures 126 or baffles may have a curved or arcuate shape, such as those at reference numeral 126'. Baffle 126' may be curved in the direction of rotation of the impeller or in the opposite direction of the direction of rotation of the impeller.

[0092] Fig.15 The operation of the air distribution device 100 is illustrated. During use, a computer or processor of the vehicle seat and / or vehicle can turn on the air moving device and rotate the impeller 110. Air A can be drawn into the housing 102 via the rotating impeller 110 of the air moving device 108 via one or more openings 124 in the bottom cover 106. The air A is then directed by the rib structure or baffle 126 to one or more ports 120 in the top cover 104. The air flow AF can exit the housing 102 via the one or more ports 120 and can be directed into one or more ducts or vents in the cushion (see, for example, FIG. 1 ). Fig.11 ).

[0093] Fig.16 and Fig.17 An air distribution device 200 is illustrated. Features of the air distribution device 200 may be similar to features of the air distribution device 100 described above in the previous figures. Similar elements of the air distribution device 200 in structure and / or function compared to the air distribution device 100 are indicated with reference numerals increased by 100. Unless otherwise indicated, statements made with respect to the structure of the air distribution device 100 may apply to the air distribution device 200 and vice versa.

[0094] The air distribution device 200 includes a housing 202. The housing 202 may include a first or top cover 204 and an opposing second or bottom cover 206 and an interior space 207 defined therebetween.

[0095] Air distribution device 200 may include an air moving device 208 including an impeller 210 ( Fig.18). Air distribution device 200 and / or air moving device 208 may include a connector 212 for electrically connecting air distribution device 200 and / or air moving device 208 to a controller 214. Controller 214 may be part of a computer or processor associated with the vehicle seat, the air conditioning system, the vehicle, or a combination thereof.

[0096] Fig.18 An air distribution device 200 is illustrated. A first or top cover 204 may have a generally flat base. The top cover 204 may include one or more ports 220 through which air may be pulled, sucked, or drawn into the housing 202. The top cover 204 may include one or more mounting holes 222.

[0097] The second or opposing bottom cover 206 can have a generally flat base including an opening 224 through which the air moving device 208 and / or a portion 218 of the impeller 210 can extend. The opening 224 can be defined in a dome or raised area 225. The dome or raised area can be elevated relative to a flat surface 227 or an inner surface 244 of the bottom cover 206. In some configurations, the air moving device 208 can be integrated with the bottom cover 206. This can mean that the air moving device 208 or the housing 230 includes the bottom cover 206.

[0098] The domed area 225 in the bottom cover 206 may be complementary to or opposite a corresponding domed or raised area 229 of the top cover 204 .

[0099] To assemble the air distribution device 200, one or more fasteners 234 may be introduced into and / or through the mounting holes 232, 228, 222 in the top cover 204, the air moving device 208, and the bottom cover 206. One or more adhesives, tapes, welds, RF welds, etc. may be used to secure or connect the peripheries of the top and bottom covers and / or prevent air from leaking between the top and bottom covers. In the assembled state, the domes 225, 229 may be in contact or a gap may be defined between the domes 225, 229. In other configurations, one or more prongs or projections may be used to join the two halves 204, 206 together, as described above. Fig.14 discussed in .

[0100] In the assembled state, the impeller 210 may be arranged between the top cover 204 and the bottom cover 206. In the assembled state, the impeller 210 may be arranged below the top cover. In the assembled state, the impeller 210 may be arranged below the bottom cover. In the assembled state, the impeller 210 may be positioned in the dome or raised area 225 and below the dome or raised area 229. In the assembled state, the impeller 210 may be at least partially located within both the dome or raised areas 225, 229.

[0101] The top cover 204 can have a generally flat and / or rectangular shape. However, in other configurations, the top cover 204 can have another shape, such as a square, a circle, an oval, a diamond, or any other polygonal shape. In other configurations, the shape can have any number of curved sides.

[0102] The top cover 204 may include a flange 236. The flange 236 may surround the periphery of the cover 204. A wall 238 may be defined between the flange 236 and a top or outer surface 240. The top surface 240 includes openings for one or more ports 220. The wall 238 may be substantially vertical relative to the flange 236 and / or the top surface 240; however, in some configurations, the wall 238 may be arranged at a non-vertical angle relative to the flange 236 and / or the top surface 240. In some configurations, the wall 238 may include one or more ports 220. In some configurations, the wall 238 may be eliminated and the flange 236 and the top surface 240 may be arranged in the same plane.

[0103] The top cover 204 can have one or more ports 220. The air flow generated by the air moving device 208 can be drawn from the housing 202 through the one or more ports 220. The one or more ports 220 in the top cover 204 can be generally circular as shown. In other configurations, the one or more ports 220 can have another shape, such as a square, an oval, a diamond, or any other polygonal shape. In other configurations, the one or more ports 220 can have any number of curved sides.

[0104] One or more ports 220 may be connected to a seat cushion 24 ( Fig.11 ) are aligned with one or more pipes or vents 26, 28 therein.

[0105] The top cover 204 may include an inner surface 251. The inner surface 251 may face the inner surface 244 of the bottom cover 206. The inner surface 251 may face the interior 207 of the housing 202. The inner surface 251 may include a rib structure 226 or a baffle. The rib structure 226 or baffle may surround the opening 216 in the top cover 204. The rib structure 226 may surround one or more ports 220 in the top cover 204. The rib structure 226 may have a structure for directing or guiding air flow from one or more ports 220 in the top cover 204 to the air moving device 208. The rib structure 226 may have similar features and functions as the rib structures or baffles described above.

[0106] In some configurations, the rib structure 226 may additionally or alternatively be located on the bottom cover 204 .

[0107] Fig. 20 The air distribution device 200 is shown in use. Similar to the air distribution device 100, the air distribution device 200 can be attached to the cushion and / or the frame or suspension of the vehicle seat. The air distribution device 200 can be received in a depression or recess formed in the bottom or B side of the cushion. The air distribution device 200 can be attached to the cushion and / or the frame or suspension via one or more fasteners (such as pins, screws, tape, double-sided tape, adhesive, or a combination thereof). The air distribution device 200 can have any fastening mechanism disclosed herein.

[0108] During use, a computer or processor of the vehicle seat and / or vehicle can turn on the air moving device 208. Air A can be drawn from the vehicle seat or cushion into the housing 202 via the rotating impeller 210 of the air moving device 208 via one or more ports 220 in the top cover 204. The air A is then directed to the impeller 210 of the air moving device 208 by the rib structure 226. The air flow AF can exit the housing 202 in the area between the bottom surface 209 of the bottom cover 206 and the housing of the air moving device 208. This can be referred to as a pull configuration or operation of the air moving device and / or air distribution device. As shown in FIG. Fig. 20 As can be seen in FIG. 2 , the blades of the impeller of air moving device 208 are partially located within or internal to housing 202 and partially located outside or below bottom cover 106 of housing 202 .

[0109] Fig.21 and Fig. 22An air distribution device 200 is illustrated. Features of the air distribution device 200 may be similar to features of the air distribution devices 100, 200 described above in the previous figures. Similar elements in structure and / or function of the air distribution device 200 compared to the previously described air distribution devices are indicated by the same reference numerals or by increasing the reference numerals by 100. Unless otherwise indicated, statements made with respect to the structure of the air distribution device 100 may apply to the air distribution device 200 and vice versa. The air distribution device 200 includes a housing 202. The housing 202 may include a first or top cover 204 and an opposing second or bottom cover 206 and an interior space 207 defined between the first or top cover 204 and the opposing second or bottom cover 206. As described below Fig.23 and Fig.24 As may be better illustrated in FIG. 2 , the top and bottom covers 204, 206 are joined together via a connector 260. The connector 260 may be a living hinge or a material from the manufacturing process of the covers 204, 206. That is, the covers 204, 206 may be formed during an injection molding or stamping process and joined together via the connector 260. The two halves 204, 206 may then be folded or hinged around the connector 260 to form a Fig.23 and Fig.24 Although the connector 260 is shown on the long ends of the covers 204, 206, the connector may alternatively be located on the short ends of the covers 204, 206 (ie, on a side wall perpendicular to where the connector 260 is currently shown).

[0110] Air distribution device 200 may include air moving device 208 including an impeller. Air distribution device 200 and / or air moving device 208 may include connector 212 for electrically connecting air distribution device 200 and / or air moving device 208 to controller 214. Controller 214 may be part of a computer or processor associated with the vehicle seat, the air conditioning system, the vehicle, or a combination thereof.

[0111] The top cover 204 and / or the bottom cover 206 may have attachment features 223 for connecting the housing 202 to a seat, cushion, or suspension structure thereof.

[0112] Fig.23 and Fig.24 The housing 202 is shown in its pre-assembled configuration. The housing 202 includes a top cover or layer 204 and a bottom cover or layer 206 joined together with a connector or hinge 260. Fig.23 An outer surface of the cover 204 is illustrated that is visible to a user after the covers 204 , 206 are folded or pivoted about the connector or hinge 260 . Fig.24The inner surface of the cover 204 is illustrated, and after the covers 204 , 206 are folded about the hinge or connector 206 , the covers 204 , 206 will face each other and define an interior space 207 of the housing 202 .

[0113] The top cover 204 and the bottom cover 206 may include one or more prongs, protrusions and / or mating recesses for joining or locking the halves 204, 206 together after the covers 204, 206 are folded about the hinge or connector 260. One or more additional fasteners (adhesives, screws, welds, etc.) may also or alternatively be used to join and secure the halves 204, 206 together. The inner surface 251 of the top cover 204 and / or the inner surface 244 of the bottom cover 206 may include one or more air guide structures or rib structures 226 having the structure and / or function described herein. In addition, or alternatively, the outer surface 256 of the bottom cover 206 may include one or more air guide structures or rib structures that are used to guide or direct the air flow when air is drawn from the housing and discharged between the bottom surface or outer surface 256 of the second half 206 and the housing 230 of the air mover, for example, as described above in Fig. 20 The air guide structure or rib structure 226 and its position relative to the housing 230 of the air moving device are also discussed in Fig. 22 Shown in.

[0114] Fig.25 and Fig.26 An air distribution device 300 is illustrated. Features of the air distribution device 300 may be similar to features of either of the air distribution devices 100, 200 described above in the previous figures. Similar elements of the air distribution device 300 in structure and / or function compared to the air distribution devices 100 and / or 200 are indicated with reference numerals increased by 200 or 100, respectively. Unless otherwise indicated, statements made with respect to the structure of the air distribution devices 200 and / or 100 may apply to the air distribution device 300, and vice versa.

[0115] The air distribution device 300 may include only one cover or layer. For example, the air distribution device 300 may include a bottom cover 306 and omit the top cover (i.e., 106 and / or 206 in the previous figures). Alternatively, the air distribution device 300 may include a top cover and omit the bottom cover.

[0116] The inner surface 344 of the bottom cover 306 may include one or more air guide structures or rib structures 326 for guiding or directing the air flow as described above. In addition, or alternatively, the outer surface 356 of the bottom cover 306 may include one or more air guide structures or rib structures 326 for guiding or directing the air flow as air is drawn from the housing and discharged between the bottom surface or outer surface 356 of the second half 306 and the housing 330 of the air mover, for example, as described above. Fig. 20 discussed in .

[0117] Air moving device 308 may be attached to outer surface 356 of bottom cover 306 via one or more fasteners 334. In this embodiment, one or more fasteners 334 may be one or more ribs or prongs or projections that engage corresponding recesses or openings in housing 330 of air moving device 308.

[0118] The air distribution device 300 can be installed in a vehicle seat such that the inner surface 326 of the bottom cover 306 faces the back side of the cushion or one or more layers of the vehicle seat. Thus, the back side of the cushion or one or more layers of the vehicle seat can form the top cover of the air distribution device 300. In this aspect, the air moving device 308 can draw air into the interior of the device 300 (defined between the back side of the cushion and / or the trim layers of the vehicle seat) and then draw or pump the air out of the interior of the device 300 through the opening in the bottom cover and the opening between the housing 330 of the air mover, similar to the above description of the invention. Figure 16-Figure 24 illustrated and described.

[0119] The air guide structure, rib structure or baffle can be used to distribute air within the open space of the housing, distribute air to one or more ventilation ports, holes or orifices, provide uniform distribution of air, laminar distribution of air flow, turbulent distribution of air flow or a combination thereof. One or more baffles can form a path between one or more ventilation ports, holes or orifices and the air mover so that air passes through each of the ventilation ports, holes or orifices, not just the ventilation ports, holes or orifices located closest to the air mover.

[0120] One or more baffles can be a part of the top cover, bottom cover, or both that extend into the open space to create a fluid barrier. One or more baffles can be added to the open space between the layers before the shell is assembled or sealed. One or more baffles can be curved, generally straight, teardrop-shaped, triangular or air plane wing-shaped, crescent-shaped, serpentine, with a curved portion, with a straight portion, or a combination thereof. The baffle can be rounded on either end. The baffle can have a teardrop shape, wherein the width of the body decreases from one end to the other. The teardrop-shaped baffle can have sides that are generally straight, concave, convex, curved, or any combination thereof. For example, a teardrop-shaped baffle can have generally straight sides with rounded ends. For example, a teardrop-shaped baffle can have a middle body with a diameter smaller than either end of the baffle. The one or more baffles can radiate outward away from the opening, where a blower or air mover is connected to the shell. One or more baffles can be positioned adjacent to the blower attachment feature (the area where the air mover is connected to the housing) and help facilitate air between the blower and one or more ventilation ports, holes or orifices. For example, when the blower moves through the ventilation holes between 10cm and 20cm, the baffle can help the blower move an equal amount of air through the ventilation ports, holes or orifices that are within 2cm of the blower. One or more baffles can help direct air from a blower that is not centrally positioned to a ventilation port, hole or orifice that is away from the blower. For example, the blower can be located in the top quarter of the housing, and the baffle can assist the ventilation ports, holes or orifices in the bottom quarter to distribute approximately the same volume of air as the ventilation ports, holes or orifices in the other three quarters of the plenum. For example, if the ventilation ports, holes or orifices are not symmetrically spaced, the baffles will help distribute the air to distribute the air more evenly to each of the ventilation ports, holes or orifices (e.g., the volume distribution from vent to vent may have a difference of about 50% or less, about 40% or less, preferably about 30% or less, more preferably about 20% or less and most preferably about 10% or less). The symmetry of the housing, the location of the ventilation ports, holes or orifices, the location of the blower, or a combination thereof may be proportional to the number of baffles present in the housing. For example, if the blower is located in the center, and the ventilation ports, holes or orifices may need to be symmetrically positioned along one or more of the two baffles. If the blower is not centrally positioned and the ventilation ports, holes or orifices are asymmetrically positioned (relative to a 4-quadrant grid centered at the center of the housing), 4 or 5 or more baffles may be required. One or more baffles may be shaped to help air flow from the blower to one or more ventilation ports, holes or orifices at a uniform fluid velocity. One or more baffles may have a shape that promotes laminar flow. For example, the baffles may be generally straight, linear, have no curved portions, no concave areas, no sharp angles, or any combination thereof.The acute angle can be a situation where the baffle is rotated at an angle, and the angle between the two walls of the baffle forms an angle of about 120 degrees or less, about 105 degrees or less, about 90 degrees or less, about 65 degrees or less, or about 50 degrees or less. One or more baffles can be configured to prevent turbulence, prevent the closure of an open space, or prevent turbulence or the closure of an open space. For example, the baffle can be straight, linear, without a curved portion, without a concave area, without an acute angle, or any combination thereof. The acute angle can be a situation where the baffle is rotated at an angle and the angle between the two walls of the baffle forms an angle of about 120 degrees or less, about 105 degrees or less, about 90 degrees or less, about 65 degrees or less, or about 50 degrees or less. For example, when the air moves away from the blower connection feature, the cross-sectional width of the baffle can increase. For example, when the air moves toward the blower connection feature, the cross-sectional width of the baffle can increase. The baffle may have a height that is roughly the same height as the distance between the top and bottom layers of the housing. The height of the baffle may be less than the distance between the top and bottom layers of the housing. The baffles may divide the housing so that more than one blower may be used. The baffles may divide the housing so that one area may be a push area and one area may be a pull area. The housing may also be referred to as a plenum.

[0121] The explanations and descriptions presented herein are intended to enable other persons skilled in the art to understand the present invention, its principles, and its practical applications. The above description is intended to be illustrative and not restrictive. Those skilled in the art may adapt and apply the present invention in its various forms (such as may be best suited to the requirements of a particular application).

[0122] Therefore, the specific embodiments of the invention set forth are not intended to be exhaustive or limiting of the teachings. Therefore, the scope of the teachings should be determined not with reference to this specification, but with reference to the appended claims and the full scope of equivalents to which the appended claims are entitled. The omission of any aspect of the subject matter disclosed herein in the following claims is not a waiver of such subject matter, nor should it be considered that the inventors did not consider such subject matter to be part of the disclosed inventive subject matter.

[0123] A plurality of elements or steps may be provided by a single integral element or step. Alternatively, a single element or step may be divided into separate plurality of elements or steps.

[0124] Disclosure of "a" or "an" to describe an element or step is not intended to exclude additional elements or steps. For example, disclosure of "a motor" does not limit the teaching to a single motor. Conversely, for example, disclosure of "a motor" may include "one or more motors."

[0125] Although the terms first, second, third, etc. can be used herein 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 another region, layer or section. Terms such as "first", "second" and other numerical terms do not imply order or sequence when used in this article unless the context clearly indicates. Therefore, without departing from this teaching, the first element, first component, first region, first layer or first section discussed below may be referred to as the second element, second component, second region, second layer or second section.

[0126] 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 one element or feature to another element or feature as shown in the figures. Spatially relative terms may be intended to include different orientations of the device in use or operation other than the orientation depicted in the figures. For example, if the device in the figure is turned over, elements described as being "below" or "beneath" other elements or features will be oriented to be "above" the other elements or features. Thus, the example term "below" may include both above and below orientations. The device may be oriented in other ways (rotated 90 degrees or in other orientations) and the spatially relative descriptors used herein may be interpreted accordingly.

[0127] The invention illustratively disclosed herein may suitably be practiced in the absence of any element which is not specifically disclosed herein.

[0128] Any of the elements, components, regions, layers and / or sections disclosed herein are not necessarily limited to a single embodiment. On the contrary, any element, component, region, layer and / or section disclosed herein may be replaced, combined and / or modified with any element, component, region, layer and / or section disclosed herein to form one or more embodiments that may be specifically illustrated or described herein or one or more embodiments that may not be specifically illustrated or described herein.

[0129] The disclosures of all articles and references (including patent applications and publications, test specifications) are incorporated herein by reference for all purposes. Other combinations are possible as can be seen from the appended claims, which are also incorporated by reference into this written description.

[0130] Reference numerals list

[0131] 10 Vehicles

[0132] 12 Vehicle seats

[0133] 14Front seats of vehicles

[0134] 16 Vehicle rear seats

[0135] 18 backrest

[0136] 20-seat section

[0137] 22 Seats 12 Frame / Suspension

[0138] 24 cushions

[0139] 25 Decorative layer or other layer of seat 12

[0140] 26, 28 Pipe fittings and vents in cushion 24

[0141] 100 Air distribution device

[0142] 102 Shell

[0143] 104 First or top cover layer

[0144] 106 Second or bottom cover layer

[0145] 107 is an open space of the housing between the first layer 104 and the second layer 106

[0146] 108 Air moving device

[0147] 110 Impeller of air moving device 108

[0148] 112 Connector

[0149] 114 Controller

[0150] 116 opening in the first or top cover 104

[0151] 118 Part of air moving device 108

[0152] 119 Forks, tabs and projections that hold covers 104 and 106 together

[0153] 120 Port or orifice in first or top cover 104

[0154] 122 Mounting holes or bosses

[0155] 123 Attachment Features

[0156] 124 opening in the second or bottom cover 106

[0157] 125 opening for cable 131 to pass through

[0158] 126 Air guide structure or rib structure

[0159] 127 Opposing flat areas or flanges of covers 104, 107

[0160] 128 mounting holes or bosses

[0161] 130 Air moving device housing

[0162] 131 Cables or wires

[0163] 132 Mounting holes or flanges

[0164] 134 Fasteners

[0165] 136 flange of cover 104

[0166] 140 The top surface of the cover 104

[0167] 142 Flange or pipe fitting for port 120

[0168] 144 Inner surface of the second cover 106

[0169] 151 Inner surface of top cover 104

[0170] 152 Petal

[0171] 156 Outer surface of bottom cover 106

[0172] 158 flange

[0173] 200 air distribution device

[0174] 202 Shell

[0175] 204 First or top cover

[0176] 206 Second or bottom cover

[0177] 207 covers the inner space between 204 and 206

[0178] 208 Air Moving Device

[0179] 209 bottom surface of the bottom cover 206

[0180] 210 impeller

[0181] 212 Connector

[0182] 214 Controller

[0183] 218 Part of air moving device 208

[0184] Port 220

[0185] 222 mounting holes

[0186] 223 Attachment Features

[0187] 224 opening in the second or bottom cover 206

[0188] 225 Dome or raised area

[0189] 226 Air guide structure or rib structure

[0190] 228 mounting holes

[0191] 227 Flat surface of bottom cover 206

[0192] 232 mounting holes

[0193] 236 flange of top cover 204

[0194] 238 wall of top cover 204

[0195] 240 The top surface or outer surface of the top cover 204

[0196] 244 inner surface of the bottom cover 206

[0197] 251 Inner surface of top cover 204

[0198] 256 The outside of the bottom cover 206

[0199] 260 connector, hinge

[0200] 300 air distribution device

Claims

1. An air distribution device for a vehicle seat, comprising: a top cover comprising one or more ports; a bottom cover connected to the top cover to form a housing, the bottom cover including an opening; as well as an air moving device including an impeller located in the housing between the top cover and the bottom cover; wherein air is drawn by the air moving device through the opening in the bottom cover into the housing and then exhausted from the housing through the one or more ports in the top cover.

2. The air distribution device according to claim 1, wherein: The bottom cover includes a rib structure that directs air from the opening to the one or more ports.

3. The air distribution device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The rib structure extends from an inner surface of the bottom cover and contacts an inner surface of the top cover.

4. An air distribution device according to claim 1 or any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The air distribution device is free of any layers inside the housing between the top cover and the bottom cover.

5. An air distribution device according to claim 1 or any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The top cover includes a plurality of ports, and the plurality of ports are laterally offset relative to the opening in the bottom cover.

6. An air distribution device according to claim 5 or any one of the preceding claims, wherein: Each port of the plurality of ports includes a flange, and the flange is received in a tube defined in a cushion of the vehicle seat.

7. An air distribution device according to claim 6 or any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The air distribution device is connected to a suspension or frame of the vehicle seat and / or the air distribution device is received in a recess defined in the cushion of the vehicle seat.

8. An air distribution device according to claim 2 or any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The rib structure includes a plurality of petals.

9. An air distribution device according to claim 8 or any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The rib structure includes one or more apexes.

10. An air distribution device according to claim 9 or any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The rib structure includes two vertices, and one of the two vertices is offset from a central horizontal axis of the housing.

11. An air distribution device according to claim 9 or any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The rib structure includes two vertices, and one of the two vertices is aligned with a central horizontal axis of the housing.

12. An air distribution device according to claim 5 or any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The air distribution system includes ports aligned along an axis parallel to and offset from a central horizontal axis of the air distribution device.

13. An air distribution device according to claim 12 or any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The air distribution system includes ports aligned along an axis parallel to and offset from a central vertical axis of the air distribution device.

14. An air distribution device according to claim 1 or any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The air moving device is connected to an inner surface of the top cover, an inner surface of the bottom cover, or both inner surfaces of the top cover and the bottom cover.

15. An air distribution device according to claim 1 or any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The air distribution device includes a seal surrounding a peripheral edge of the housing.

16. An air distribution device according to claim 1 or any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The air moving device includes an impeller, and a rotational axis of the impeller is aligned with a central axis of the housing.

17. An air distribution device according to claim 1 or any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The top cover, the bottom cover, or both the top cover and the bottom cover are made of a rigid material.

18. An air distribution device for a vehicle seat, comprising: a top cover comprising one or more ports; a bottom cover connected to the top cover to form a housing, the bottom cover including an opening; as well as an air moving device, the air moving device including an impeller, the impeller being at least partially located below the bottom cover; wherein air is drawn by the air moving device through the one or more ports in the top cover into the housing and then exhausted from the housing through the opening in the bottom cover.

19. The air distribution device according to claim 18, wherein: The top cover includes a rib structure that directs air from the one or more ports to the one or more openings in the bottom cover.

20. An air distribution device according to claim 18 or claim 19, wherein: The rib structure extends from an inner surface of the top cover and contacts an inner surface of the bottom cover.

21. An air distribution device according to claim 18 or any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The air distribution device is free of any layers inside the housing between the top cover and the bottom cover.

22. An air distribution device according to claim 18 or any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The top cover includes a plurality of ports, and the plurality of ports are laterally offset relative to the opening in the bottom cover.

23. An air distribution device according to claim 20 or any one of the preceding claims, wherein: Each of the plurality of ports includes a flange, and the flange is received in a tube defined in a cushion of the vehicle seat.

24. An air distribution device according to claim 23 or any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The air distribution device is connected to a suspension or frame of the vehicle seat and / or the air distribution device is received in a recess defined in the cushion of the vehicle seat.

25. An air distribution device according to claim 19 or any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The rib structure includes a plurality of petals.

26. An air distribution device according to claim 25 or any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The rib structure includes one or more apexes.

27. An air distribution device according to claim 26 or any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The rib structure includes two vertices, and one of the two vertices is offset from a central horizontal axis of the housing.

28. An air distribution device according to claim 26 or any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The rib structure includes two vertices, and one of the two vertices is aligned with a central horizontal axis of the housing.

29. An air distribution device according to claim 22 or any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The air distribution system includes ports aligned along an axis parallel to and offset from a central horizontal axis of the air distribution device.

30. An air distribution device according to claim 29 or any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The air distribution system includes ports aligned along an axis parallel to and offset from a central vertical axis of the air distribution device.

31. An air distribution device according to claim 18 or any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The air moving device is connected to an outer surface of the bottom cover.

32. An air distribution device according to claim 18 or any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The air distribution device includes a seal surrounding a peripheral edge of the housing.

33. An air distribution device according to claim 18 or any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The air moving device includes an impeller, and a rotational axis of the impeller is aligned with a central axis of the housing.

34. An air distribution device according to claim 18 or any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The top cover, the bottom cover, or both the top cover and the bottom cover are made of a rigid material.

35. An air distribution device according to claim 18 or any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The bottom cover includes a flat surface and a dome region or a raised region relative to the flat surface, wherein the impeller is at least partially located in the dome region or the raised region.

36. An air distribution device according to claim 35 or any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The dome region or the raised region extends in the direction of the top cover.

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