Adjusting device for adjusting face region of face of occupant in interior of motor vehicle

Abstract

The invention relates to an adjusting device for adjusting an interior area (12) in an interior (14) of a motor vehicle, having a control device for controlling at least one temperature control element (18) and having a temperature control surface (24), which can be temperature-controlled by means of the temperature control element (18) and is arranged in close proximity to a face area (20) of a face of a passenger (22), the interior region (12) is formed between the face region (20) and the temperature control surface (24), and wherein the interior region (12) is formed between the face region (20) and the temperature control surface (24).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to an adjusting device for adjusting an interior region in the interior of a motor vehicle according to claim 1. The invention also relates to a method according to claim 10. Background Art

[0002] The main idea of ​​the invention relates in particular to maintaining skin moisture, i.e. providing moisture to the skin of passengers in a motor vehicle, and thus to achieving a skin protection function, wherein, instead of the usual application of skin creams or other means, it is provided here that the air is cooled directly around the skin, thereby reducing the drying of the skin. Normally, the air in a vehicle is relatively too dry. Frequently, the relative air humidity is below 40%. This can lead to dry skin conditions. In particular, when this relatively too dry air passes over the skin surface or mucous membranes (eyes, nose). The drier the passing air, the easier it is for moisture to be drawn from the skin and / or mucous membranes.

[0003] In other words, the concept of targeted promotion of skin moisture is known in the field of natural skin care products or cosmetics, wherein no device for such purpose in a motor vehicle is disclosed in the prior art. Although devices for such situations are known in the field of cosmetics, no such invention has been disclosed for a motor vehicle or a passenger in a motor vehicle.

[0004] For example, it is known in motor vehicles to increase the relative air humidity in the interior and thus also in the area around the skin of the passengers by introducing fresh air. Alternatively, moisture is introduced directly into the interior in a fine atomized form, so that the humidity within the interior can be controlled. However, there is no known technology that uses the effect of a cold surface near the face, for example, to cool the air locally and in this way refresh the face.

[0005] EP 1 338 464 B1 discloses a motor vehicle seat with a backrest, the padding of which includes a ventilation layer that can be ventilated by means of a fan of a ventilation device, wherein the backrest is provided with a cover on its back side, and at least one air inlet for the ventilation device is left out of the cover. The air inlet is arranged in the upper area of ​​the cover of the backrest and in the area overlapping with the associated fan of the ventilation device, wherein the air inlet is concealed by a cover arranged on the cover.

[0006] Furthermore, for example, DE 20 2019 102 669 U1 discloses a mask through which a fluid for cosmetic treatment can be introduced. DE 10 2020 005 186 A1 describes a suction device for breathing air that is movably fastened to a vehicle seat.

[0007] The air inside a motor vehicle is usually significantly drier than outside it. The average value of the air humidity in Berlin over a year is, for example, >68% air humidity (RH). In a vehicle, on average, a maximum of 40% relative air humidity is achieved. Here, the lower the outside temperature, the drier the relative air humidity in the vehicle. Normally, the air humidity in a vehicle is mostly between 15% RH and 30% RH. The reason behind this is that cold air can only hold very little moisture. The warmer the air, the more moisture the air can hold. Therefore, when the cold air is heated, the moisture contained is dispersed and therefore diluted, which leads to lower and lower relative air humidity. Conversely, when the air cools, the so-called dew point is eventually reached. The dew point is the point at which the air reaches a humidity level of 100% and the water contained is no longer in the form of steam. The water condenses in the form of clouds and mist. Good comfort is achieved at RH values ​​of 40% to 60%. Values ​​below 40% RH for a long time lead to moisture being drawn away from the skin surface and mucous membranes. It is also known that enriching the inhaled air with salt is beneficial to health, for example in salt therapy or salt cave therapy. The surface of the face, eyes and upper respiratory tract are particularly exposed to this drying effect. This leads to an unpleasant dryness of the skin, a sensation of sand in the eyes and a greater susceptibility to infection due to the drying of the mucous membranes of the upper respiratory tract. Therefore, it may be helpful to increase the relative air humidity, especially in the face, nose and eye area. In addition, enriching the air with salt aerosols is helpful for the respiratory tract in order to reduce the susceptibility to infection. Summary of the invention

[0008] The object of the invention is therefore to condition the area around the facial area of ​​the face of an occupant to produce air humidity. This object is achieved by a conditioning device having the features of claim 1 and by a method having the features of claim 10. Advantageous embodiments of the conditioning device can be derived from the dependent claims. Advantageous embodiments of the conditioning device should be regarded as advantageous embodiments of the method and vice versa.

[0009] The invention relates to an adjusting device for adjusting the facial area of ​​a passenger's face in the interior of a motor vehicle, which has an adjusting element adapted to the facial area of ​​the passenger's face, which is held in the vicinity of the facial area by means of a holding device, and at least one temperature regulating element is arranged on the adjusting element. In other words, an adjusting device is provided, which is designed to adjust the interior area near the face in the interior of a motor vehicle. Such an interior area is an area of ​​the interior, that is, the interior area is formed in the interior of the motor vehicle and thus forms a partial area of ​​the interior. The adjusting device is therefore designed to adjust exactly this interior area, in particular to regulate the temperature, that is to say to heat or cool, wherein the temperature change of the interior area caused thereby can be transmitted to the interior in a diffuse manner, but according to the invention, it is provided that at least the interior area reaches a predetermined temperature by cooling and / or by heating. In this case, the adjusting device has a control device for controlling the at least one temperature regulating element, wherein the adjusting device is particularly used for cooling. As a temperature control element, a Peltier element can be used in this case, for example, which can achieve a predetermined temperature as an electric heat converter, wherein the temperature control element is mainly arranged to be controlled by a signal of a control device to reach a predetermined temperature, and is particularly used to adjust temperature fluctuations. In addition to the Peltier element, other temperature control elements of thermoelectric materials with positive efficiency can also be used. The regulating element has a temperature control surface, which can be adjusted, particularly temperature-controlled, by means of the temperature control element, and is arranged adjacent to the facial area of ​​the passenger's face and faces the facial area, wherein the interior space area is formed between the facial area and the temperature control surface. "Adjacent" is used to describe the distance between the facial area and the temperature control surface, and the distance has, for example, a size between> 0cm and 10cm, particularly between 1cm and 9cm, particularly between 1.5cm and 8.5cm. Therefore, the interior space area is defined by the distance between the facial area and the temperature control surface and the size of the area of ​​the facial area and the area of ​​the temperature control surface. In particular, it is therefore possible to generate directional heat radiation from the temperature control surface to the facial area at a predetermined temperature.

[0010] In other words, the temperature of the interior area is adjusted by the temperature control surface, especially cooling, so that air humidity is generated in this interior area due to thermodynamics. In this case, the temperature control surface of the regulating element facing the face, for example, facing the forehead, is intended to cool the air in the interior area to the extent that the relative air humidity in the area is increased and the moisture in the mucous membrane or skin is prevented from being drawn away as a whole. In addition, the moisture contained in the air can be converted into fine mist according to the temperature and absolute air humidity of the temperature control surface, thereby moistening the face. The focus of the atomization is the face, especially the mucous membrane and upper respiratory tract of the forehead, nose and eyes. The air humidity therefore directly reaches the face of the passenger or the corresponding facial area of ​​the face, thereby increasing the air humidity in the facial area, or at least partially moistening the skin of the face. In particular, the temperature control surface should be set to a predetermined distance from the facial area in this case, so that the best possible humidity can be generated. In a motor vehicle, although it is known to increase the relative air humidity by introducing fresh air, it is arranged according to the present invention to increase the air humidity in the interior area in a targeted and oriented manner to the face of the passenger or the corresponding facial area. The regulating device thus uses the effect of a cold surface near the face to cool the air locally and in this way makes the face feel refreshed. In this case, the temperature regulating surface refers to a cold surface arranged in the immediate vicinity of the facial area. The regulating device with a temperature regulating surface or the cold surface provided by the temperature regulating surface can be freely implemented in terms of design and can, for example, be inspired by adjustable hair drying caps in natural skin care products. The most important thing is the possibility of integrating a cold surface, preferably by means of Peltier thermoelectric cooling elements, i.e. (English name) "Peltier-Thermoelectric Cooler Modules", which cool the air on the side facing the face, for example facing the forehead, to such an extent that the moisture contained therein moisturizes the face or at least prevents drying. In the case of cooling as temperature control, the thermoelectric temperature regulating element must be operated with such a current intensity that the current intensity defines the intensity of the cooling and therefore defines the speed and intensity of reaching the dew point and thus achieving the goal, i.e., achieving cooling.

[0011] The present invention therefore makes use of the mechanism that the relative humidity of the air increases as the air temperature decreases. Air humidity refers to the proportion of gaseous water, i.e. water vapor, contained in the air. The relative air humidity indicates how much water vapor is currently present in the air compared to the maximum possible amount of water vapor. In contrast, the absolute humidity provides information about the actual amount of water vapor currently present in the air, expressed in g / m 3The air can only hold a certain amount of water vapor, which depends mainly on the temperature. Warm air can hold more water vapor than cold air. Therefore, at the same absolute humidity, warm air is always relatively drier. Thus, when the air is cooled, the relative proportion of humidity in the air increases. And thus possible drying effects on the skin or mucous membranes are reduced or even prevented.

[0012] An advantageous embodiment of the present invention provides that the temperature control surface can be moved forward to a position adjacent to the facial area and back by means of a first actuator, which can be controlled by a control device. A temperature control surface arranged in front of the passenger's face may seriously affect the passenger's field of vision even if an opening for perspective is arranged. Therefore, according to the present invention, it is provided that the temperature control surface is positioned in the vicinity of the facial area only when necessary. This means that the regulating device can be adjusted between a use position and a static position, wherein in the static position, the regulating device, in particular the temperature control surface, is adjusted out of the passenger's field of vision. For example, the adjustable temperature control surface can be arranged in the roof area of ​​a motor vehicle, so that when the regulating device is adjusted to the use position, the temperature control surface is adjusted to the vicinity of the facial area. An alternative embodiment in which the temperature control surface is adjusted in the direction toward the facial area is also feasible, wherein it is mainly set to linear movement in order to simply adjust the position of the regulating device.

[0013] According to a preferred embodiment, it is provided that the distance between the temperature control surface of the regulating element and the facial area of ​​the user is changed or set according to a predetermined or set temperature value and, if appropriate, according to the needs of the user. This means that the greater the temperature difference between the temperature control surface and the interior of the vehicle, the greater the distance between the temperature control surface and the facial area can be set. Thus, for example, the temperature difference between the temperature generated at the temperature control surface and the interior temperature, i.e., the temperature of the interior area of ​​the vehicle interior, can be selected as a parameter. Alternatively, the temperature of the facial area of ​​the user can be detected and the temperature difference between the facial area and the temperature control surface can be taken into account for the distance to be set. Preferably, the distance between the temperature control surface and the facial area can be automatically set as the temperature difference increases, preferably set larger, if appropriate, also smaller. For example, the user may be able to reduce or increase the automatically set or preset distance, especially by manual input. In order to adjust the distance, it should be possible to move forward and backward and back in the direction of the facial area from the use position of the temperature control surface, wherein the first actuator or control device is designed to automatically adjust the distance. In particular, the temperature control surface is thereby moved forward from the use position relative to the preset position in the direction of the facial area. That is, first adjust the adjustment device from the static position to the use position, so as to adjust the distance between the user's face and the temperature control surface more accurately. In addition to the first actuator, in this case, a sensor device, an optical detection device or other device for measuring the distance is also arranged on the control device, by means of which the actuator is controlled to control the movement of the temperature control surface in the direction of the facial area. Preferably, after reaching the predetermined distance, the temperature control is started by the temperature control element, and the air humidity in the interior space area between the temperature control surface and the facial area is increased. After the adjustment device is applied, the temperature control surface is adjusted back again, and the adjustment device is adjusted to the static position. This widens the user's field of vision again. The arrangement of the adjustment device within the interior space of the motor vehicle can be freely selected, as long as it is arranged according to the present invention that the temperature control surface is moved or adjusted to the vicinity of the face. In this case, the application of a robot arm, a telescopic rod or other device can also be integrated, wherein the corresponding actuator and the control device are arranged on the adjustment device, or the adjustment device is arranged on a movable device already present in the motor vehicle.

[0014] Another advantageous embodiment of the present invention provides that the temperature control surface can be rotated around its own axis by means of a second actuator, which can be controlled by a control device, and can be adjusted to the vicinity of the facial area by rotation. With regard to adjusting the adjustment device from the static position to the use position, rotation is another possibility of applying other degrees of freedom. This means that the temperature control surface can not only be controlled to be adjusted to the passenger's face in a linear forward and backward movement, but also can be adjusted around a predetermined axis, so that the formation of the internal space area where moisture is generated is better adapted to the face, or can be better moved to the face from different angles. Therefore, rotational movement and flipping movement can be introduced into the adjustment process. In one embodiment of the adjustment device, the temperature control surface is arranged, for example, at the headrest of the vehicle seat of the motor vehicle where the passenger sits. The temperature control surface is integrated, for example, in the side cushions of the side of the headrest, which are rotated forward relative to the passenger's head in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle by means of corresponding actuators and by rotation around the corresponding axis. Thus, the corresponding temperature control surface is guided to the passenger's face, in particular the corresponding facial area, such as the cheek, so as to form the internal space area to be adjusted. In this example, it is particularly clear that the temperature control surface does not necessarily have to have a mask-shaped design, but rather that the corresponding temperature control surface can be guided from other areas of the interior to the corresponding facial area. For example, the temperature control surface can also be adjusted around the user's head starting from the side pad of the headrest via the corresponding track, so that the entire face can be covered by the temperature control surface and then temperature-controlled. In this case, the corresponding temperature control surface is designed as a convex surface, for example, and forms a semicircle around the user's head when displaced relative to each other, thereby defining the interior area. In other words, the side headrest with the temperature control surface is guided to move around the passenger's face by the corresponding mechanism and actuator, so that different facial areas can be temperature-controlled.

[0015] In another advantageous embodiment of the present invention, it is provided that the temperature control surface has a predetermined contour, in particular corresponding to the facial area. This means that the temperature control surface is not designed as a flat surface, but has at least one contour corresponding to the facial area, that is, the surface can be designed as a convex surface, so that it can better adapt to the curve of the face. However, in particular, the entire temperature control surface can also be designed so that the contour of the face is embossed, and the contour can then be guided to the vicinity of the face in close proximity. For example, the temperature control surface has two openings for perspective when the temperature control surface is placed on the face, and is correspondingly formed into a mask shape in this case. This mask-shaped temperature control surface can now be placed on the face by means of the first and second actuators, and can be moved forward, returned and also adjusted at its angle via the corresponding actuators. However, for example, this temperature control surface or the contour corresponding to the facial area can be formed by different temperature control surfaces, which are then adapted to the passenger's face in the corresponding relative movement to each other, so that the interior space area near the face can be temperature controlled. Therefore, the corresponding temperature control surface can be pushed in front of the face, for example, on both sides of the head or both sides of the headrest, and thus the face can be adjusted. In addition, such mask-shaped solutions of the temperature control surface can be designed by means of 3D printing, or also by using 3D knitting technology. In particular, the temperature control surface can have a cover layer made of a soft material or fabric, which protects the skin when the skin is in direct contact with the temperature control surface.

[0016] In another advantageous embodiment of the invention, it is provided that the temperature-control surface has a first wall and a second wall different from the first wall, between which a cavity is arranged. In this case, for example, the first wall is temperature-controlled so that the second wall, which is at a predetermined distance from the first wall, provides a protective function for the user's face, similar to a cover. By filling the cavity with a medium, it is also possible to achieve temperature isolation, so that a time-delayed temperature control can be produced.

[0017] Likewise advantageously, another embodiment of the invention has been demonstrated in which a ventilation device (Durchlüftungseinrichtung) for adjusting the temperature control surface is arranged in the cavity. In particular, a spacer fabric of the ventilation device is arranged in the cavity, through which the temperature-controlled air flow can flow. In other words, a ventilation device is arranged to adjust the temperature control surface, which is connected to an air conditioner, for example, to convey the air flow through the cavity. In this case, the regulating device has inlets and outlets for the air flow at the respectively required positions, which are realized via valves or other components, and these inlets and outlets are arranged to correspond to the connection of the air conditioner. The ventilation device in this case has, for example, a connection to the air conditioner of the motor vehicle, so that cooling is no longer carried out via the temperature control element, but rather via the ventilation device.

[0018] Further advantageous is a further embodiment of the invention in which a signal for adjusting a vehicle seat of a motor vehicle can be generated by means of a control device. This means that the control device sends a signal to the environment, by means of which the vehicle adjusts the vehicle seat to a predetermined position, so that the seat position of the passenger is adapted when the adjusting device is applied. For example, the vehicle seat can be tilted backwards after receiving the signal, and the corresponding actuator of the adjusting device moves one and / or more temperature-control surfaces to the face of the passenger, so that a predetermined interior area is temperature-controlled at least partially. Likewise, the vehicle seat can not only be tilted backwards, but also raised, so that the arrangement of the adjusting device in an area, for example, at the rear of the interior in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle can be realized more quickly and without complex mechanical movements for placing the temperature-control surface to the face of the passenger. In other words, in this case, the adjusting device can be coupled, for example, to a driver assistance system in order to control the vehicle seat.

[0019] Another embodiment of the invention is also advantageous, in which a plurality of temperature control surfaces can be temperature controlled by means of at least one temperature control element. In particular, the respective temperature control surface is equipped with a respective temperature control element, wherein the respective temperature control surface covers a part of the facial area to be adjusted and thus forms a contour. This means that the adjustable mask is formed by a plurality of temperature control surfaces, wherein the respective temperature control surface can be temperature controlled by one or the respective temperature control elements. Thus, a plurality of different facial shapes or facial areas can be cooled with the respective temperature control surfaces, or adapted to these facial areas. In particular, adapted adjustments can be made to the respective passengers of the motor vehicle, wherein presettings according to the passengers can be stored.

[0020] Finally, in another advantageous embodiment of the invention, it is provided that the control device is coupled to a driver assistance system of the motor vehicle in order to be used at least semi-automatically. In this case, the interior design is changed in an audiovisual manner, for example, by ambience, wherein, for example, when the control device is used, the vehicle seats are tilted back and the lights are dimmed and soothing music is played, so that a calm atmosphere can be created during the use of the control device. By coupling with the driver assistance system, it is also provided that the control device is used, for example, by voice control. In particular, a variety of conformity functions of the control device are provided.

[0021] Furthermore, in an advantageous embodiment of the invention, it is provided that a sensor device with a temperature sensor is arranged in the control device in order to determine the temperature in the interior area and to control and regulate the temperature control as required. In particular, such a sensor device is supplemented by a humidity sensor for calculating the relative air humidity. Likewise, the sensor device can be supplemented by a pollutant sensor and by a CO2 sensor, an O2 sensor, an ion measuring device or a salt aerosol detection device.

[0022] Another aspect of the present invention relates to a method for operating a regulating device for regulating an interior space region in the interior space of a motor vehicle. In this method, at least one temperature regulating element is controlled by means of a control device, and a temperature regulating surface arranged in the facial region of the face of a passenger and facing the facial region is temperature-regulated by means of the temperature regulating element, wherein the interior space region is formed between the facial region and the temperature regulating surface. In particular, the temperature regulating surface is moved forward to the vicinity of the facial region and returned by means of a first actuator and a second actuator controllable by the control device, and rotated around an axis, thereby adjusting the regulating device, in particular the temperature regulating surface, from a static position to a use position. The temperature regulating surface in this case particularly has a predetermined contour corresponding to the facial region, wherein in order to realize the contour, a plurality of temperature regulating surfaces with corresponding temperature regulating elements can also be arranged. Further, the regulating device can be designed to have a first wall and a second wall different from the first wall, wherein a cavity is arranged between the two walls. A spacer fabric can be installed in this cavity, which is a component of a ventilation device in or surrounding the cavity. In particular, for adjusting the temperature control surface, a ventilation device is arranged instead of a temperature control element, which ventilation device is in turn coupled to the air conditioning of the motor vehicle. The control device is also designed to generate a signal for adjusting a vehicle seat of the motor vehicle or to be coupled to a driver assistance system for at least semi-automatically using the driver assistance system of the motor vehicle. Further method steps for operating other designs of the adjustment device can be included in the method.

[0023] In other words, the passenger's face can be at least partially moistened. In this case, the present invention has a temperature-regulating surface or a temperature-regulating surface with a predetermined contour, for example, also a mask or a mask-like structure, which is arranged at a defined distance from the driver's face or the passenger's facial area, and also roughly imitates the facial contour, so as to maintain a defined distance from the eyes and nose, i.e. a direct distance. In this case, a plurality of temperature-regulating surfaces can be applied, which are then also arranged around the face, thereby forming the contour. With the help of such a mask or with the help of such a contour, for example, also formed by 3D printing, or also by applying 3D knitting technology, the facial area of ​​the passenger's face can be regulated, or the inner space area between the facial area and the temperature-regulating surface can be regulated. In this case, a double wall can also be produced, through which the air can be regulated, and the air can then be guided to the temperature-regulating surface via a ventilation device between the walls or directly. Such an adjustment device or temperature-control surface can be fixed, for example, on the upper side of the backrest or on the headrest in this case and can be pulled in front of the face when necessary and can also be moved away again. In particular, the adjustment device has corresponding actuators in this case, by means of which forward and backward movement and rotation adjustment around the axis can be realized. However, different mechanisms are also feasible in this case, so that the temperature-control surface can be used flexibly, for example by folding, folding, pivoting or by fully automatic or manual movement. In this case, it is particularly provided that the temperature-control surface can be adjusted in a heating and cooling manner, in particular cooling, and that the facial area or the inner space area can be enriched with plant sols or salt aerosols, thereby also enriched with oxygen or ionized.

[0024] In addition, a larger or smaller gap can be provided between the face and the temperature control surface by means of an adjustment device, so that the air quality in the area below the temperature control surface reaches the positive range, and the exhaled air can also be discharged smoothly. However, the core of the present invention lies in a mechanism for reducing the surface temperature of the side of the temperature control surface facing the face, the purpose of which is to reduce the temperature of the air between the temperature control surface and the face. In order to relatively reduce the surface temperature, a Peltier element can be applied as a temperature control element in this case, which is arranged at the temperature control surface and transfers the generated cold or heat to the temperature control surface. The material for the temperature control surface can be selected to transfer cold. In other words, the temperature control surface is formed by means of a material that can pass cold and heat. In particular, it is also possible to introduce a cold-conducting material or a wire by selecting the material for 3D printing, so that the temperature can be conducted. In addition, a heating wire can also be introduced or embossed, so that the temperature in the facial area can be increased in particular.

[0025] Alternatively, the temperature regulating surface can be formed as a 3D knitted fabric within the scope of a spacer fabric, through which the ventilation layer is moved by means of a fan or a breathable device of the ventilation device. For this purpose, at least one air inlet is provided, for example at the contact surface with the mask and for example at the upper part of the backrest of the vehicle seat. Such a transition point is covered with a trim and is particularly arranged to provide an air inlet. Similarly, a low-pressure fan, for example with a radial fan, can be arranged, with the help of which the air can be moved into the air inlet and then through the ventilation layer. In order to enrich the air in the facial area under the mask with salt aerosol, the salt aerosol can be mixed with the air flow, for example, wherein the salt is kept as a solid in a breathable container as an obstacle in the air flow and is therefore mixed with the air flow. This is also feasible when applying a plant sol, for example, lavender flowers can be applied so that they are introduced into the air flow on a breathable nonwoven.

[0026] In other words, the object of the invention is to provide a control device or a controller for controlling the interaction between cooling, ventilation or heating components as a function of air temperature and air humidity. In this case, the target state can be cooling the facial surface or heating the facial surface. It is also provided that the relative humidity of the inhaled air is regulated and the relative humidity of the air around the eyes is increased. Finally, it is also provided that the humidity of the facial surface is increased. In this case, algorithms are stored in the controller or at the control device for each target state, thereby controlling the interaction of sensors and actuators. In order to enable the passenger to select these target states, it must be possible to select the options and set the continuous target states and their duration by some form of user interaction, for example with the help of a driver assistance system. Alternatively, these settings are coded by numbers or names so that the passenger clearly knows which function he or she enjoys. Alternatively, the form and duration of the target state can be prepared via an external mobile data device, i.e. an external input medium or an application on a smartphone.

[0027] Finally, the adjustment device is designed so that it can obtain more application possibilities by adding materials or material layers. For example, an acoustic layer placed on top can block sound in order to further optimize privacy and quiet areas. In addition, a layer for eliminating breathing noise can also be added or embedded locally in the interior. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0028] Further advantages, features and details of the invention are derived from the following description of preferred embodiments and from the drawings. The above-mentioned features and combinations of features mentioned in the description, as well as the features and combinations of features mentioned in the description of the drawings and / or shown alone in the drawings, can be used not only in the respective combination but also in other combinations or alone without departing from the scope of the invention.

[0029] The accompanying drawings show:

[0030] Figure 1 A perspective view showing an embodiment of an adjustment device in the interior of a motor vehicle according to the invention; and

[0031] Figure 2 A side view is shown of a passenger located within an interior space during use of an embodiment of an adjustment device according to the invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0032] Figure 1 A perspective view of an embodiment of an adjusting device 10 according to the invention is shown, which is used for adjusting an interior region 12 in an interior 14 or passenger compartment of a motor vehicle. The adjusting device 10 in this case has a control device 16, not shown in detail, for controlling at least one temperature control element 18, not shown, and a temperature control surface 24 which can be temperature-controlled by means of the temperature control element 18 and which faces a facial region 20 of the face of an occupant 22 or user. The temperature control surface 24 is formed on a shaped or contoured adjusting element and faces the user 22. In this case, the interior region 12 is formed between the facial region 20 and the temperature control surface 24 and in the immediate vicinity of the facial region 20. In this case, the adjusting device 10 is shown in a simplified embodiment, which in particular has a temperature control surface 24 which can be moved forward and back, in particular linearly, by means of a first actuator 26, not shown in detail, which can be controlled by the control device 16, and can also be moved around by means of a second actuator 28 which can be controlled by the control device 16. Figure 2 The axis A shown is rotated. In other words, the adjusting device 10 for adjusting the interior area 12 is adjusted with its adjusting element to a position in the vicinity of the facial area 20 of the passenger 22 and is used to adjust the interior area 12, wherein the temperature control surface 24 is guided in the direction of the face of the passenger 22 by means of the control device 16 by means of the actuators 26, 28. The arrangement of the adjusting device 10 within the interior 14 of the motor vehicle is freely selectable in this case, wherein, however, it is provided that the temperature control surface 24 is moved or adjusted to a position in the vicinity of the face. In this case, the use of a robot arm, a telescopic rod or the like can also be provided, wherein the corresponding actuators 26, 28 and the control device 16 are arranged at the adjusting device 10, or the adjusting device 10 is arranged at a mobile device already present in the motor vehicle. In this case, it is provided that the relative air humidity in the interior area 12, i.e. in the area around the facial skin of the passenger, is increased.

[0033] Figure 2A side view of a passenger 22 located in an interior 14 during application of an embodiment of the conditioning device 10 according to the invention is shown. The conditioning device 10 for conditioning an interior region 12 in an interior 14 of a motor vehicle is designed to condition, in particular cool, the interior region 12 at a facial region 20 of the face of the passenger 22 in order to generate air humidity and thus moisten the skin of the passenger 22 in the facial region.

[0034] The interior region 12 is in this case a region of the interior 14, that is to say the interior region 12 is formed in the interior 14 of the motor vehicle. The regulating device 10 is therefore designed for regulating precisely this interior region 12, that is to say for heating or cooling, wherein the resulting temperature change of the interior region 12 can be transferred to the interior 14 in a diffuse manner, but it is provided that at least this interior region 12 reaches a predetermined temperature T by cooling and / or heating. For this purpose, the regulating device 10 has a control device 16 for controlling the at least one temperature control element 18, wherein the regulating device 10 is used in particular for cooling. As the temperature control element 18, for example, a Peltier element can be used in this case, which as an electrothermal converter can achieve a predetermined temperature T, wherein it is provided primarily that the temperature control element 18 is controlled by a signal of the control device 16 to reach the predetermined temperature T, in particular also for regulating temperature fluctuations.

[0035] The control device 10 has a temperature control surface 24 which can be temperature controlled by means of a temperature control element 18 and is arranged in the immediate vicinity of a facial region 20 and faces the facial region 20, wherein the interior region 12 is arranged between the facial region 20 and the temperature control surface 18. "In the immediate vicinity" describes a distance between the facial region 20 and the temperature control surface 18 which has a dimension between >0 cm and 10 cm, in particular between 1 cm and 9 cm, in particular between 1.5 cm and 8.5 cm. The interior region 12 is thus defined by the distance between the facial region 20 and the temperature control surface 24 and by the dimensions of the area of ​​the facial region 20 and the area of ​​the temperature control surface 24. The distance between the temperature control surface 24 of the control element and the facial region 20 of the user 22 can be varied or set according to a predetermined or set temperature value at the temperature control surface 24 and, if appropriate, according to the needs of the user. This means that the greater the temperature difference between the temperature control surface 24 and the interior area 12 or the interior 14 of the vehicle or motor vehicle, the greater the distance between the temperature control surface 24 and the facial area 20 can be set, preferably automatically; thus, for example, the temperature difference between the temperature to be generated at the temperature control surface 24 and the interior temperature of the vehicle interior (interior area 12 and / or interior 14) can be selected as a parameter. The setting or regulation of the distance between the temperature control surface 24 and the facial area 20 is preferably undertaken by a first actuator 26 having a control device 16 and at least one temperature sensor (not shown).

[0036] The interior area 12 is located between the facial area 20 of the face of the passenger 22 and the temperature control surface 24 facing the face. The temperature control surface 24 is designed in this case so that it presents a predetermined contour 30 corresponding to the facial area 20. This contour 30 is particularly configured to correspond to the facial area 10, which means that the temperature control surface 24 is as far as possible from the face of the passenger 22, including the nose, mouth, eye sockets, forehead, etc. The adjustment element has a first wall 32 and a second wall 34 spaced therefrom, so that there is a cavity between the two, in which, for example, a spacer fabric or a temperature control medium can be arranged. In addition, the corresponding temperature control element 18 is arranged at the second wall 34, for example, and the first wall 32 has a protective layer made of textile, for example, which protects the face from direct contact with the temperature control surface 24. Similarly, a ventilation device 36 for adjusting the temperature control surface 24 can be arranged between the two walls 32, 34, wherein the ventilation device 36 can be coupled to an air conditioner, for example, which in turn has an opening at the headrest 39 of the vehicle seat 38, but it is not shown here.

[0037] Likewise, signals for adjusting the position of the vehicle seat 38 and the position of the headrest 39 can be provided by means of the control device 16, so that the vehicle seat 38 can be raised and tilted back, for example. Thus, when using the adjustment device 10, a relaxed posture can be provided for the passenger 22, when the latter is using the adjustment device 10. Likewise, the adjustment device 10 can be designed with a plurality of temperature control surfaces 24, in which corresponding temperature control elements 18 can be arranged, but it is also possible that the temperature of the corresponding temperature control surface 24 can be adjusted by means of a single temperature control element 18, for example by means of the air permeable device 36. Finally, the control device 16 is coupled to a driver assistance system of the motor vehicle so that it can be used at least semi-automatically, so that during the use of the adjustment device 10, the ambience or the acoustic and visual interior design of the interior 14 of the motor vehicle can be adjusted.

[0038] The control device 10 is operated by means of a method according to the invention, in which a control device 16 is used for controlling at least one temperature control element 18 in order to control the interior region 12. In the method, a temperature control surface 24 arranged adjacent to and facing the facial region 20 is also temperature-controlled by means of the temperature control element 18, wherein the interior region 12 is arranged between the facial region 20 and the temperature control surface 24. In particular, the temperature control surface 24 is to be moved to a position adjacent to the facial region 20 and back and rotated about the axis A by means of actuators 26, 28 controllable by the control device 16, so that the control device 10, in particular the temperature control surface 24, is adjusted from a rest position to a use position. In this case, the temperature control surface 24 has in particular a predefined contour 30 corresponding to the facial region 20, wherein a plurality of temperature control surfaces 24 with corresponding temperature control elements 18 can also be arranged to realize the contour 30.

[0039] In summary, the conditioning device 10 is an alternative device for a facial humidifying hood for moistening the facial area 20 of an occupant 22 in a motor vehicle.

Claims

1. An adjusting device (10) for adjusting a facial area (20) of the face of an occupant (22) in an interior space (14) of a motor vehicle, comprising an adjusting element adapted to the facial area (20) of the face of the occupant (22), the adjusting element comprising a temperature control surface (24), the temperature control element being held in the vicinity of the facial area (20) by means of a holding device, and at least one temperature control element (18) being arranged on the adjusting element.

2. The adjustment device (10) according to claim 1, It is characterized in that The adjusting element can be moved forward to a position immediately adjacent to the facial region (20) and back by means of a first actuator (26), which can be controlled by a control device (16).

3. The adjustment device (10) according to claim 1 or 2, It is characterized in that The distance between the temperature regulating surface (24) and the user's facial area (20) can be automatically set according to a predetermined or set temperature value.

4. The adjustment device (10) according to claim 1, 2 or 3, It is characterized in that The adjusting element can be rotated about its own axis (A) by means of a second actuator (28) which can be controlled by the control device (16) and can be adjusted by means of the rotation to a position in close proximity to the facial area (20).

5. Adjustment device (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, It is characterized in that The adjustment element has a predetermined profile (30).

6. Adjustment device (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, It is characterized in that The adjustment element has a first wall (32) and a second wall (34) spaced apart from the first wall (32), and a cavity is formed between the first wall and the second wall.

7. The adjustment device (10) according to claim 5, It is characterized in that A venting device (36) for adjusting the adjusting element is arranged in the cavity.

8. Adjustment device (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, It is characterized in that The control device (16) can be used to generate a signal for adjusting a vehicle seat (38) of the motor vehicle.

9. Adjustment device (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, It is characterized in that A plurality of control elements can be temperature-controlled by means of corresponding temperature control elements (18).

10. Adjustment device (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, It is characterized in that The control device (16) is coupled to a driver assistance system of the motor vehicle for at least semi-automatic use.

11. A method for operating an adjustment device (10) for adjusting a facial area (20) of the face of an occupant (22) in an interior space (14) of a motor vehicle, wherein an adjustment element adapted to the facial area (20) is retained in a vicinity of the facial area (20) by means of a retaining device, the adjustment element comprising a temperature control surface (24) on which at least one temperature control element (18) is arranged.

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