Air supply unit for vehicle and automobile seat
By integrating the flexible air storage component with the air pump assembly in a sealed manner, the problems of sealing reliability and installation accuracy of separate installation of air tank and air pump are solved, thereby improving sealing performance and assembly efficiency and meeting the reliability and economy requirements of automotive seat pneumatic systems.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Applications(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- AEW TECHNOLOGY GROUP CO LTD
- Filing Date
- 2026-03-10
- Publication Date
- 2026-05-05
AI Technical Summary
The existing separate installation of air tank and air pump has problems such as insufficient sealing reliability, low installation positioning accuracy, easy air leakage and low assembly efficiency, which cannot meet the reliability and assembly economy requirements of automotive seat pneumatic systems.
The design adopts an integrated and sealed connection between the flexible air storage component and the air pump assembly. Through interference fit, sealant bonding and locking sleeve, a tight fit between the flexible air storage component and the air pump assembly is achieved. Combined with thermoforming technology, an inseparable one-piece structure is formed, which enhances sealing performance and connection reliability.
It improves sealing performance and installation stability, reduces the risk of air leakage, simplifies the assembly process, and increases production efficiency and service life.
Smart Images

Figure CN121973685A_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This invention belongs to the automotive field, specifically relating to an air supply unit for vehicles and an automotive seat. Background Technology
[0002] In automotive seat pneumatic systems, the air tank is a core energy storage and pressure stabilizing component. It not only reduces the frequency of air pump start-stop to achieve energy savings and noise reduction, and extends the service life of the air pump, but also significantly improves the system's response rate, playing a crucial role in ensuring the overall performance of the pneumatic system. The structural design, material selection, and installation method of the air tank directly determine the stability and reliability of the pneumatic system's operation.
[0003] Currently, air tanks and air pumps are generally designed for separate installation, with the two connected via quick-connect tubing. This connection method inherently suffers from insufficient sealing reliability and low installation positioning accuracy, making it prone to air leakage under conditions such as vibrations from vehicle movement and tubing strain. Furthermore, this installation method also suffers from poor installation stability and low assembly efficiency. These combined defects severely restrict the long-term stable operation of the pneumatic system and fail to meet the design requirements for reliability and assembly economy in automotive seat pneumatic systems. Summary of the Invention
[0004] To address the aforementioned problems in the prior art, namely the issues of air leakage and insecure installation due to the separate installation of existing air tanks and air pumps, this invention provides an air supply unit for vehicles and a car seat.
[0005] To solve the above-mentioned technical problems, the technical solution provided by the present invention is as follows:
[0006] An air supply unit for a vehicle, comprising: A gas storage assembly, including a flexible gas storage element for storing gas, configured to be freely coiled in a vehicle seat; An air pump assembly is inserted into the flexible air storage component and integrally and sealed with the flexible air storage component. The air outlet channel of the air pump assembly is connected to the inner cavity of the flexible air storage component for pumping compressed air into the inner cavity of the flexible air storage component. A connection assembly, one end of which is inserted into the flexible gas storage component and integrally and sealed with the flexible gas storage component, and the other end is used to output compressed gas; A locking sleeve is fitted onto the flexible gas storage component and tightly connected to it, so as to ensure a tight fit between the flexible gas storage component and the air pump assembly, as well as between the flexible gas storage component and the connecting assembly.
[0007] Furthermore, the locking sleeve includes a tapered section and a threaded section, and the flexible gas storage component is provided with a corresponding tapered section and a threaded section; The tapered hole section is fitted onto the tapered section to form a compression, and the threaded hole section is screwed onto the threaded section to form a threaded connection.
[0008] Furthermore, the flexible gas storage component is integrally and sealed with the gas pump assembly and the connecting assembly by hot pressing molding. The outer wall of the air pump assembly and the connecting assembly is provided with at least one annular sealing groove, and after hot pressing, an annular sealing protrusion corresponding to the annular sealing groove is formed on the inner wall of the flexible air storage component.
[0009] Furthermore, the flexible gas storage component is configured as a tubular gas storage structure; or, the flexible gas storage component is configured as a combination of multiple tubular gas storage structures connected in series and / or in parallel.
[0010] Furthermore, the flexible gas storage component is configured as a soft toothed tube, and the outer peripheral wall of the soft toothed tube is provided with multiple connecting ribs integrally formed along its own length direction, and the multiple connecting ribs are distributed circumferentially along the outer peripheral wall of the soft toothed tube; or, The flexible gas storage component is configured as a fabric-reinforced rubber-plastic tube, with one end integrally connected to the air pump assembly and the other end connected to the connecting assembly; or, The flexible gas storage component is configured as a soft corrugated pipe, with one end integrally connected to the gas pump assembly and the other end connected to the connecting assembly; or, The flexible gas storage component is configured as a cylindrical structure, with one end fitted onto the air pump assembly and in an interference fit with the air pump assembly, and the other end connected to the connecting assembly.
[0011] Furthermore, the gas storage assembly also includes a support sleeve, which is fitted onto the flexible gas storage component to limit the deformation of the flexible gas storage component.
[0012] Furthermore, the support sleeve is connected to or serves as part of the frame of the vehicle seat.
[0013] Furthermore, the gas storage assembly also includes a sealing sleeve, which is fitted onto the flexible gas storage component and inserted into the support sleeve, thereby sealing the gap between the flexible gas storage component and the support sleeve. The flexible gas storage component is provided with at least two sealing sleeves, which together with the supporting sleeve form a sealed space.
[0014] Furthermore, the air pump assembly includes a pressure control mechanism, and the pressure control mechanism includes a detection element; The detection element can be pushed along a first direction by the gas in the flexible gas storage device and has a movement tendency opposite to the first direction, so that it can reciprocate under the action of gas pressure change in the flexible gas storage device. A trigger point is provided on the reciprocating movement path of the detection element. When the detection element reaches the trigger point, the air pump assembly switches between start and stop states.
[0015] In another aspect of the present invention, an automobile seat is provided, including the above-described air supply unit for a vehicle, the automobile seat including a seat cushion and a backrest, wherein the air storage components are respectively installed on the seat cushion and the backrest, and a plurality of the air storage components are connected in series and / or in parallel.
[0016] In summary, the technical effects achieved by this invention are as follows: The air supply unit for a vehicle provided by the present invention includes: an air storage assembly, comprising a flexible air storage element for storing gas, configured to be freely coiled in the vehicle seat; an air pump assembly, inserted into the flexible air storage element and integrally and sealedly connected to the flexible air storage element, wherein the air outlet channel of the air pump assembly is connected to the inner cavity of the flexible air storage element for pumping compressed air into the inner cavity of the flexible air storage element; a connecting assembly, one end of which is inserted into the flexible air storage element and integrally and sealedly connected to the flexible air storage element, and the other end of which is used to output compressed gas; and a locking sleeve fitted onto the flexible air storage element and tightly fitted to the flexible air storage element for ensuring a tight fit between the flexible air storage element and the air pump assembly, and between the flexible air storage element and the connecting assembly.
[0017] The air supply unit for vehicles provided by this invention employs an integrated structure with a direct connection between the air pump and the flexible air storage component, enhancing sealing performance. Compared to existing designs with separate installation of the air tank and air pump, and quick-connect tubing, the integrated connection structure not only solves the inherent problems of insufficient sealing reliability and low installation positioning accuracy of traditional connection methods, but also avoids the potential for malfunctions caused by pipe pulling. Simultaneously, it simplifies the assembly process, improves production and assembly efficiency, and balances operational stability with assembly economy. Furthermore, the use of a locking sleeve enhances the reliability of the integrated sealing connection and extends its service life. Attached Figure Description
[0018] To more clearly illustrate the specific embodiments of the present invention or the technical solutions in the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the specific embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained from these drawings without creative effort.
[0019] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an air supply unit for a vehicle provided in an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 2 A perspective view of an air supply unit for a vehicle provided in an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 3 A schematic diagram of the installation structure of the locking sleeve provided by the present invention; Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the locking sleeve provided by the present invention; Figure 5 A schematic diagram of the structure of the flexible toothed tube provided by the present invention; Figure 6 A schematic diagram of the structure of the flexible corrugated pipe provided by the present invention; Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the connection component provided by the present invention; Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the air pump assembly provided by the present invention; Figure 9 An exploded view of the air pump assembly provided by the present invention; Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the installation of an air supply unit for a vehicle provided in an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 11 Another installation diagram of an air supply unit for a vehicle provided in an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of the air pump provided by the present invention; Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of the differential pressure switch provided by the present invention; Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram of the installation of the gas supply device provided by the present invention.
[0020] Icons: 100, Gas storage assembly; 110, Flexible gas storage component; 111, Conical section; 112, Threaded section; 200, Air pump assembly; 220, Air pump; 211, Detection component; 212, Reset component; 213, Detection end; 214, First sensing module; 215, Second sensing module; 216, Third sealing ring; 201, Gas outlet channel; 202, Detection chamber; 203, Mounting chamber; 204, Connecting chamber; 205, Pressure transmission hole; 206, Air inlet channel; 221, Nozzle cover; 222, Gas distribution layer; 223, Cover bottom; 224, Leather cup; 225, Gas chamber; 226, Display plate. ; 227, Torsion shaft; 228, Base; 229, Motor; 2210, Screw; 2211, Umbrella nail; 300, Connecting assembly; 310, Pagoda connector; 320, Plug connector; 400, Locking sleeve; 410, Tapered hole section; 420, Threaded hole section; 500, First sealing ring; 10, Differential pressure switch; 11, Switch body; 12, Slide rod; 13, First spring; 14, Pressure sleeve; 15, Second spring; 16, Adjusting rod; 17, First paddle; 18, Second paddle; 19, Second sealing ring; 20, Massage air bag; 30, Controller; 40, Clamp; 50, Seat frame. Detailed Implementation
[0021] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of the present invention clearer, the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, and not all embodiments. The components of the embodiments of the present invention described and shown in the accompanying drawings can generally be arranged and designed in various different configurations.
[0022] Therefore, the following detailed description of the embodiments of the invention provided in the accompanying drawings is not intended to limit the scope of the claimed invention, but merely to illustrate selected embodiments of the invention. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments of the invention without inventive effort are within the scope of protection of the invention.
[0023] The following detailed description of some embodiments of the present invention is provided in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Unless otherwise specified, the following embodiments and features can be combined with each other.
[0024] The following combination Figures 1-14 The structure and shape of the air supply unit for a vehicle provided in this embodiment will be described in detail below: To address the problems of separate installation of gas cylinders and pumps in vehicle air supply devices, which are prone to leakage and insecure installation due to quick-connect hoses, as well as the complexity of manufacturing rigid gas cylinders, their susceptibility to leakage in high-temperature environments, and difficulty in placement in confined spaces, this embodiment provides an air supply unit for vehicles. Through an integrated sealing structure design and a flexible gas storage structure, it balances sealing performance, installation adaptability, and operational stability. This vehicle air supply unit includes a gas storage component 100, a pump component 200, and a connection component 300. These components form an integrated structure, reducing connection points to mitigate leakage risks, while also adapting to the complex interior space layout of vehicle seats.
[0025] Specifically, the gas storage component 100 includes a flexible gas storage element 110, which stores gas. Made of flexible material, it can be freely mounted within the vehicle seat, adapting to the installation needs of different areas such as the seat frame 50 gap, backrest, and base 228. Compared to rigid gas tanks, it eliminates the need for pre-reserved installation space, significantly improving space utilization. The flexible gas storage element 110 can be made of flexible sealing materials such as TPU, TPEE, butyl rubber, and fluororubber. These materials possess excellent airtightness, resistance to high and low temperatures, and anti-aging properties, enabling them to adapt to temperature changes during long-term use in the vehicle interior and preventing gas leakage in high-temperature environments.
[0026] The flexible air-storage component can be bent and arranged to conform to the irregular contours of the seat frame without undergoing plastic deformation.
[0027] Considering the different space dimensions and air supply capacity requirements of different seats, the flexible air storage component 110 can be configured as a tubular air storage structure. The tubular structure is easy to be coiled along the seat frame 50 and can be adjusted in shape by bending.
[0028] Alternatively, the flexible air storage component 110 can be placed inside the seat frame 50, utilizing the internal space of the seat frame to accommodate the flexible air storage component 110.
[0029] It can also be composed of multiple tubular gas storage structures connected in series and / or in parallel. Series connection can extend the gas storage path to increase the gas storage capacity, while parallel connection can realize gas supply through multiple branches. At the same time, the gas supply can be regulated by controlling the on / off state of a single tubular gas storage structure.
[0030] Considering the structural strength and shape retention capability of the tubular flexible gas storage component 110 after coiling, in the optional embodiment, the flexible gas storage component 110 is configured as a soft toothed tube. Multiple connecting ribs are integrally formed along the length of the soft toothed tube on its outer peripheral wall. These connecting ribs are evenly distributed circumferentially along the outer peripheral wall of the soft toothed tube. Figure 5 As shown. The connecting ribs are integrally molded from the same flexible material as the soft toothed tube, which can enhance the radial compressive strength of the soft toothed tube, avoid excessive expansion and deformation after inflation, and improve the rigidity of the overall structure, so that the flexible gas storage component can maintain the preset shape after being folded 110 times, which is convenient for precise positioning and installation.
[0031] Besides the flexible toothed tube, the flexible gas storage component 110 can also be a fabric-reinforced rubber-plastic tube. The fabric-reinforced rubber-plastic tube has multiple layers of fiber-reinforced fabric inside. These fiber-reinforced fabric layers can be made of high-strength fiber materials such as polyester and nylon, which can further improve the tensile and burst resistance of the gas storage component. One end is integrally connected to the air pump assembly 200, and the other end is connected to the connecting assembly 300; alternatively, it can be a flexible corrugated tube, such as... Figure 6 As shown, the flexible corrugated pipe achieves bending flexibility through its corrugated structure. At the same time, the corrugated section can disperse the inflation pressure and reduce local stress concentration. One end is integrally connected to the air pump assembly 200, and the other end is connected to the connecting assembly 300.
[0032] To ensure the connection stability and sealing of the flexible gas storage component 110 and the air pump assembly 200, the flexible gas storage component 110 can be configured as a cylindrical structure, with one end fitted onto the air pump assembly 200 and interfering with it to form an initial seal through the interference fit, and the other end connected to a connecting component 300.
[0033] Considering that the interference fit may develop sealing gaps due to material aging after long-term use, the optional solution of this embodiment also provides a locking sleeve 400. The locking sleeve 400 is fitted onto the part of the flexible air storage component 110 that is fitted onto the air pump assembly 200. By applying radial clamping force to the flexible air storage component 110, the inner wall of the flexible air storage component 110 is made to fit tightly against the outer wall of the air pump assembly 200, further filling any possible gaps and improving the sealing performance and reliability of the integral connection.
[0034] Specifically, the locking sleeve 400 can be configured as a clamp, made of stainless steel or high-strength plastic. The tightening degree of the clamp can be adjusted by bolts to achieve adjustable clamping force. Alternatively, it can be an annular pressure ring, which is connected to the air pump assembly 200 via a threaded structure. During tightening, it applies axial and radial composite pressure to the flexible air storage component 110 to enhance the sealing effect. In addition, sealant can be applied to the mating surfaces of the flexible air storage component 110 and the air pump assembly 200. The sealant can be a silicone sealant or polyurethane sealant that is resistant to aging and gas corrosion. Applying sealant further enhances the sealing of the connection, providing double protection against gas leakage.
[0035] The integrated sealing connection can be achieved through interference fit, sealant bonding, and locking with locking sleeve 400. To further improve the reliability of the integrated sealing connection, in this embodiment, the integrated sealing connection can also be achieved by thermoforming, that is, based on the housing of the air pump assembly 200, the flexible air storage component 110 is fixedly connected to the housing of the air pump assembly 200 by thermoforming.
[0036] Specifically, during hot pressing, the outer shell of the air pump assembly 200 is pre-fixed to the preset connection position of the molding die. Then, the hot pressing equipment is started to heat the flexible gas storage component 110 to a molten state. Under high pressure, the molten material tightly covers the outer shell of the air pump assembly 200, achieving mutual penetration and fusion at the material level. After the temperature drops to room temperature and cools and solidifies, the flexible gas storage component 110 and the outer shell of the air pump assembly 200 form an inseparable integrated structure with no splicing gaps at the contact surface, thus eliminating gas leakage at the source.
[0037] To further improve sealing reliability, 3-4 annular sealing grooves are uniformly arranged on the outer circumference of the outer wall of the air pump assembly 200. During the hot pressing process, the molten flexible air storage component 110 material fills the annular sealing grooves. After cooling, multiple annular sealing protrusions are formed, which interlock with the grooves to form a locking structure. This not only enhances the connection strength between the two, but also forms multiple airtight barriers, effectively preventing compressed gas from leaking from the connection.
[0038] Furthermore, to improve connection reliability, locking sleeves 400 are provided to ensure a seal. Two locking sleeves 400 are respectively fitted onto the air pump assembly 200 and the connecting assembly 300. Specifically, as follows... Figure 3 , Figure 4 As shown, the locking sleeve 400 includes a tapered section 410 and a threaded section 420. The flexible gas storage component 110 is provided with a corresponding tapered section 111 and a threaded section 112. The tapered section 410 is fitted onto the tapered section 111 to form a compression, and the threaded section 420 is screwed onto the threaded section 112 to form a threaded connection. That is, the tapered section 410 is fitted onto the tapered section 111 and the compression formed by the tapered surface achieves an interference fit, ensuring a tight fit between the flexible gas storage component 110 and the housing of the air pump assembly 200, thereby achieving reliable sealing and connection. At the same time, the fit between the threaded section 420 and the threaded section 112 further improves the stability of the connection.
[0039] Furthermore, the fit between the tapered hole section 410 and the tapered section 111 also improves the reliability of the threaded connection between the threaded hole section 420 and the threaded section 112, providing preload and preventing loosening of the connection. Specifically, such as... Figure 3 As shown, the end of the threaded section 112 away from the tapered section 111 is provided with a stepped surface. After assembly, the threaded hole section 420 abuts against this stepped surface. The engagement between the tapered hole section 410 and the tapered section 111 provides preload for the threaded connection under the limitation of the stepped surface.
[0040] To further improve the sealing performance of the integrated connection between the flexible air reservoir 110 and the air pump assembly 200, the air supply unit for the vehicle also includes a first sealing ring 500. The first sealing ring 500 is sleeved on the air pump assembly 200 and inserted into the flexible air reservoir 110 to fill the annular gap between the air pump assembly 200 and the flexible air reservoir 110. Furthermore, the first sealing ring 500 is disposed in the area covered by the tapered bore section 410, thereby improving the sealing effect of the first sealing ring 500 under the compression of the tapered bore section 410.
[0041] Obviously, the integrated sealed connection between the connection component 300 and the flexible gas storage component 110 can adopt the same solution as the air pump component 200.
[0042] To ensure service life and gas supply stability, in this embodiment, the gas storage assembly 100 also includes a support sleeve. The support sleeve is fitted onto the flexible gas storage component 110 to limit its deformation and provide support and protection. The support sleeve is made of a material with a certain degree of rigidity, such as hard plastic or thin steel plate. Its inner diameter matches the outer diameter of the flexible gas storage component 110, preventing excessive compression that could affect its gas storage capacity. It also limits the radial expansion of the flexible gas storage component 110 under high pressure, preventing pipe rupture. Furthermore, it prevents other components inside the seat from squeezing or scratching the flexible gas storage component 110, reducing the risk of damage.
[0043] Optionally, the support sleeve can be connected to the vehicle seat frame or be part of the vehicle seat frame, thereby further optimizing the structural layout, reducing the number of parts, and reducing installation difficulty. When the support sleeve is connected to the seat frame, it can be fixed by bolts, clips, or other connectors to ensure the stability of the support sleeve's position, thus providing stable support for the flexible air storage component 110. When the support sleeve is part of the seat frame, it can be integrally formed with the seat frame, saving installation space and making the seat frame and air supply device form an organic whole, improving the structural integrity of the seat and the utilization rate of the seat's internal space.
[0044] Considering the gap between the support sleeve and the flexible gas storage component 110, external dust, moisture and other impurities may enter between the two through the gap. Long-term accumulation will corrode the surface of the flexible gas storage component 110, affecting its sealing performance and service life. At the same time, the existence of the gap may also cause the flexible gas storage component 110 to shift inside the support sleeve, affecting the support effect.
[0045] Therefore, in the optional embodiment, the gas storage component 100 further includes a sealing sleeve. The sealing sleeve is fitted onto the flexible gas storage component 110 and inserted into the support sleeve, thereby sealing the gap between the flexible gas storage component 110 and the support sleeve. The sealing sleeve is made of an elastic sealing material, such as silicone or nitrile rubber. Its inner diameter fits tightly with the flexible gas storage component 110, and its outer diameter fits tightly with the support sleeve, achieving a seamless seal between the two. This effectively prevents dust, moisture, and other impurities from entering, protecting the flexible gas storage component 110.
[0046] To further improve the sealing effect, the flexible gas storage component 110 is provided with at least two sealing sleeves, which together with the supporting sleeve form a sealed space. The at least two sealing sleeves are spaced apart along the length of the flexible gas storage component 110, and together with the inner wall of the supporting sleeve and the outer wall of the flexible gas storage component 110, they form a closed sealed space. Optionally, the number of sealing sleeves can be flexibly set according to the length of the flexible gas storage component 110 and the length of the supporting sleeve, such as three or four, and the spacing can be adjusted according to actual sealing requirements.
[0047] In this embodiment, the air pump assembly 200 is integrally and sealed with the flexible air storage component 110. The air outlet channel 201 of the air pump assembly 200 is connected to the inner cavity of the flexible air storage component 110, and is used to pump compressed air into the inner cavity of the flexible air storage component 110. The air pump assembly 200 includes a pressure control mechanism and an air pump 220. The air pump 220 includes an air nozzle cover 221, an air distribution layer 222, a cover bottom 223, a leather cup 224, an air chamber 225, a swivel plate 226, a torsion shaft 227, a base 228, a motor 229, screws 2210, and umbrella nails 2211, as shown. Figure 8 As shown, the valve cover 221 is fitted onto the air distribution layer 222 and fixedly connected to the air distribution layer 222. An annular groove is provided on the outer wall of the valve cover 221 for installing the first sealing ring 500. The valve cover 221 is provided with an air outlet channel 201 extending along its own axis. The air distribution layer 222 has an air inlet channel 206 extending along its own axis. One end of the air inlet channel 206 is connected to the air outlet channel 201, and the other end is connected to the cup 224. The bottom cover 223 is connected to the air distribution layer 222. The air chamber 225 accommodates the cup 224 and is connected to the bottom cover 223 to fix the cup 224. The swivel plate 226 is connected to the cup 224. The torsion shaft 227 is connected to the swivel plate 226. The motor 229 is connected to the base 228 and is used to drive the torsion shaft 227 to rotate. The screw 2210 connects the base 228, the air chamber 225, the cup 224 and the bottom cover 223 in sequence. The umbrella nail 2211 connects the bottom cover 223 and the cup 224 to ensure the installation stability of the cup 224.
[0048] During operation, the motor 229 starts and drives the torsion shaft 227 to rotate. The torsion shaft 227 drives the swing plate 226 to perform eccentric motion. The swing plate 226 squeezes the leather cup 224, causing the internal space of the leather cup 224 to change periodically, thereby drawing in and compressing external gas. The compressed gas passes sequentially through the bottom cover 223, the air inlet channel 206 of the gas distribution layer 222, and the air outlet channel 201 before entering the flexible gas storage component 110, realizing the inflation operation of the flexible gas storage component 110. Considering different gas supply pressure and flow requirements, the air pump 220 can also adopt other structural forms, such as a piston air pump 220, which compresses gas through the reciprocating motion of the piston, suitable for high-pressure gas supply scenarios; or a diaphragm air pump 220, which uses a corrosion-resistant diaphragm to isolate the gas from the moving parts, suitable for scenarios with requirements for gas purity, and is not limited to the above-mentioned swing plate air pump solution. In addition, since the air nozzle cover 221 also has a pagoda connector 310, the air pump assembly 200 can be integrally and sealed with the flexible air storage component 110, or it can be connected by a conventional quick-connect tube. The quick-connect tube connection method is suitable for scenarios where the flexible air storage component 110 needs to be replaced later for maintenance.
[0049] One end of the connecting component 300 is integrally and sealed with the flexible air storage component 110, and the other end is used to connect to the air-using unit inside the vehicle seat to output compressed gas, realizing the function of transferring the compressed gas stored in the flexible air storage component 110 to the air-using unit. The connecting component 300 includes a pagoda connector 310 and a plug connector 320. The plug connector 320 is inserted into the end of the flexible air storage component 110 away from the air pump component 200. The mating part of the plug connector 320 and the flexible air storage component 110 can also be provided with a first sealing ring 500 and a locking sleeve 400 to ensure the connection is sealed. The pagoda connector 310 is used to connect to the air pipe of the air-using unit. The pagoda structure achieves quick positioning through its inverted buckle action, and at the same time, it works with the air pipe clamp 40 to enhance the connection firmness and prevent the air pipe from falling off. Considering the interface types and sealing requirements of different gas-using units, the connection component 300 can also be a threaded connector structure. The threaded connector uses fine-pitch threads for connection and works with a sealing gasket to achieve high-pressure sealing, suitable for scenarios with high requirements for connection stability. Alternatively, it can be a quick-connect connector structure. The quick-connect connector uses an automatic sealing design with a valve core to achieve quick insertion and removal of the gas tube while ensuring sealing during insertion and removal, facilitating the maintenance and replacement of the gas-using unit. In addition, the connection between the connection component 300 and the flexible gas storage component 110 can also adopt an integral molding structure. The connection component 300 and the flexible gas storage component 110 are integrally molded through injection molding, completely eliminating connection gaps and further improving sealing performance.
[0050] Considering that excessively high air pressure within the flexible gas storage component 110 may cause structural damage, while excessively low air pressure will fail to meet the operational requirements of the gas-using unit, the air pump assembly 200 is also equipped with a pressure control mechanism to automatically control the start and stop of the air pump assembly 200, maintaining the air pressure within the flexible gas storage component 110 within a preset range. The pressure control mechanism includes a detection element 211; the detection element 211 can be pushed by the gas within the flexible gas storage component 110 along a first direction and has a movement tendency opposite to the first direction, thus enabling it to reciprocate under the influence of air pressure changes in the flexible gas storage component 110; a trigger point is provided along the reciprocating movement path of the detection element 211, and when the detection element 211 reaches the trigger point, the air pump assembly 200 switches between start and stop states.
[0051] Furthermore, the pressure control mechanism also includes a reset element 212, a detection end 213, a first sensing module 214, a second sensing module 215, and a third sealing ring 216. The nozzle cover 221 and the air distribution layer 222 form an annular detection cavity 202, and the detection element 211 is slidably installed within the detection cavity 202. Specifically, the detection element 211 is sleeved on the air distribution layer 222 and inserted into the nozzle cover 221, dividing the detection cavity 202 into a non-communicating installation cavity 203 and a communicating cavity 204. To ensure the isolation between the installation cavity 203 and the communicating cavity 204, a third sealing ring 216 is installed on the inner wall of the nozzle cover 221. The third sealing ring 216 is sleeved on the detection element 211 and used to seal the annular gap between the detection element 211 and the nozzle cover 221. Meanwhile, a sealing ring is also provided between the detection element 211 and the gas distribution layer 222. The sealing ring is fitted onto the gas distribution layer 222 and fits against the inner wall of the detection element 211. The double sealing prevents gas leakage between the two chambers and ensures the accuracy of pressure detection.
[0052] In this embodiment, the connecting cavity 204 is connected to the inner cavity of the flexible gas storage component 110 through the pressure transmission hole 205 opened in the gas nozzle cover 221, so that the gas pressure in the connecting cavity 204 is consistent with the gas pressure in the flexible gas storage component 110; the mounting cavity 203 is located on the side away from the flexible gas storage component 110. The reset component 212 is disposed in the mounting cavity 203, with one end abutting against the detection component 211 and the other end abutting against the gas distribution layer 222, and is used to apply a force to the detection component 211 opposite to the direction of the gas thrust in the flexible gas storage component 110, so that the detection component 211 has a movement tendency opposite to the first direction. Specifically, the reset component 212 is set as a compression spring, which has a simple structure, high reliability and low cost.
[0053] In this embodiment, the detection end 213 is installed on the detection element 211 and moves synchronously with the detection element 211. The detection end 213 can be a magnet or a metal induction sheet, with a compact structure and sensitive response. The first sensing module 214 and the second sensing module 215 are both installed on the inner wall of the gas nozzle cover 221 as trigger points. The second sensing module 215 is located at the end of the first sensing module 214 away from the flexible gas storage element 110. The two are arranged at intervals along the sliding direction of the detection element 211. The first sensing module 214 and the second sensing module 215 can be Hall sensors, photoelectric sensors or limit switches, and are selected according to the type of the detection end 213.
[0054] When the air pressure inside the flexible gas storage component 110 rises to the first set value, the gas in the connecting cavity 204 applies a thrust to the detection component 211 in a direction away from the flexible gas storage component 110. This thrust overcomes the elasticity of the compression spring to push the detection component 211 to move away from the flexible gas storage component 110. The detection component 211 drives the detection end 213 to move synchronously. When the detection end 213 moves to the position of the first sensing module 214, the first sensing module 214 triggers a stop signal. After the signal is transmitted to the controller 30, the controller 30 controls the air pump assembly 200 to stop pumping air to the flexible gas storage component 110 to avoid the continuous rise in air pressure causing damage to the flexible gas storage component 110. When the air pressure inside the flexible air storage component 110 drops to the second set value, the spring force of the compression spring is greater than the thrust of the gas in the connecting cavity 204 on the detection component 211. The compression spring pushes the detection component 211 to move closer to the flexible air storage component 110. The detection component 211 drives the detection end 213 to move synchronously. When the detection end 213 moves to the position of the second sensing module 215, the second sensing module 215 triggers a start signal. After this signal is transmitted to the controller 30, the controller 30 controls the air pump assembly 200 to start and pump air into the flexible air storage component 110, so that the air pressure rises back to the working range. By integrating the pressure control mechanism into the air pump assembly 200, the sealing reliability is improved, the space occupation is reduced, and it is beneficial for installation layout in limited spaces. Obviously, the first set value is greater than the second set value.
[0055] Based on the air supply unit for vehicles provided in this embodiment, this embodiment also provides a car seat, including the aforementioned air supply unit for vehicles, which solves the problems of structural clutter, large space occupation, and inconvenient installation caused by the separate installation of traditional car seat air supply devices, and improves the integration of car seats.
[0056] The car seat provided in this embodiment also includes a massage airbag 20, a controller 30, clamps 40, and a seat frame 50, whereby the seat frame 50 is the frame of the vehicle seat. Multiple clamps 40 fix the flexible air storage component 110 to the seat frame 50. The clamps 40 are made of elastic plastic or metal, and their inner walls are equipped with anti-slip pads to prevent displacement of the flexible air storage component 110 during vehicle operation. Simultaneously, the anti-slip pads buffer the impact of vibrations on the flexible air storage component 110, protecting its structural integrity. The connecting assembly 300 is connected to the controller 30 via an air pipe. The controller 30 is connected to the massage airbag 20 and is used to control the inflation and deflation of the massage airbag 20. The controller 30 has a built-in solenoid valve assembly, which controls the on / off state of different massage airbags 20 to achieve independent control. This, combined with a pressure control mechanism, ensures stable adjustment of the air supply pressure, guaranteeing the working effect of the massage airbag 20.
[0057] Considering the multifunctional needs of car seats, the air supply unit can also be a lumbar support air bag, a leg support air bag, or a seat ventilation airbag, used to realize the posture adjustment or ventilation function of the seat. The controller 30 can switch the working state of different air supply units according to the user's operation instructions.
[0058] In one embodiment, the air supply unit for a vehicle provided by the present invention includes a pressure control mechanism, wherein a differential pressure switch 10 of the pressure control mechanism is installed on the connecting pipeline between the air pump 220 and the flexible air storage component 110, such as... Figure 12 and Figure 14 As shown.
[0059] Specifically, the differential pressure switch 10 includes a switch body 11, a slide rod 12, a first spring 13, a pressure sleeve 14, a second spring 15, an adjusting rod 16, a first lever 17, a second lever 18, and a second sealing ring 19, as shown below. Figure 13 As shown. The adjusting rod 16 has a threaded part and a guide part. The threaded part is threadedly connected to the switch body 11. The second spring 15, the pressure sleeve 14, the first spring 13 and the slide rod 12 are sequentially sleeved on the guide part. The second paddle 18 is fixedly connected to the pressure sleeve 14. The first spring 13 and the second spring 15 are both compression springs. The pressure triggering accuracy is adjusted through the double spring structure.
[0060] The switch body 11 has a pressure chamber inside, which is connected to the flexible gas storage component 110. Specifically, the connection is made by connecting an air pipe between the air pump 220 and the flexible gas storage component 110, allowing the pressure chamber to sense changes in air pressure within the flexible gas storage component 110 in real time. The slide rod 12 is slidably mounted on the switch body 11, and the second sealing ring 19 is installed on the switch body 11 and sleeved around the outer circumference of the slide rod 12 to seal the fit gap between the slide rod 12 and the switch body 11, preventing gas leakage in the pressure chamber from affecting the accuracy of air pressure sensing.
[0061] When the air pressure in the flexible air storage device 110 is higher than the set value, the gas in the pressure chamber generates a thrust that acts on the slide rod 12. This thrust overcomes the preload of the first spring 13 and the second spring 15, pushing the slide rod 12 to move. During the movement of the slide rod 12, the first spring 13 is compressed, which in turn pushes the pressure sleeve 14 to move synchronously and compress the second spring 15. The pressure sleeve 14 drives the second lever 18 to move away from the first lever 17, causing the first lever 17 to disconnect from the second lever 18, thereby de-energizing the motor 229 and stopping the air supply. When the air pressure in the flexible air storage device 110 gradually decreases to below the set value, the preload of the first spring 13 and the second spring 15 is greater than the thrust of the gas in the pressure chamber on the slide rod 12. Under the reset force of the double springs, the slide rod 12, the pressure sleeve 14, and the second lever 18 reset sequentially until the second lever 18 re-contacts the first lever 17, and the motor 229 is energized again and starts supplying air, forming a closed-loop control of the air pressure.
[0062] Considering the different gas pressure range requirements of various gas usage scenarios, the preload of the first spring 13 and the second spring 15 can be changed through the threaded part of the adjusting rod 16, thereby enabling energization and de-energization under different gas pressures. Furthermore, the first spring 13 and the second spring 15 can also be disc springs, which have the advantages of high stiffness and small footprint, making them suitable for installation in confined spaces.
[0063] Car seats typically include a seat cushion and a backrest, both of which can be equipped with air-supply units. To ensure a stable supply of compressed gas to each air-supply unit and increase the air supply capacity, thereby meeting the needs of multiple air-supply units operating simultaneously, air storage components 100 can be installed on both the seat cushion and the backrest. Multiple air storage components 100 can be connected in series and / or in parallel. In series configuration, multiple air storage components 100 are connected sequentially. An air pump assembly 200 pumps compressed air into one air storage component 100, and the gas flows into the other air storage components 100 through connecting pipes, achieving synchronous inflation of multiple air storage components 100. This method increases the overall gas storage capacity, meeting the needs of multiple air-supply units operating simultaneously. In parallel configuration, multiple air storage components 100 are each connected to an air pump assembly 200. The air pump assembly 200 can simultaneously inflate multiple air storage components 100. Each air storage component 100 can independently supply air to the corresponding air-supply unit. When one air storage component 100 fails, the remaining air storage components 100 can still operate normally, improving the reliability of the air supply. Figure 11 As shown; it should be noted that the structure of the gas nozzle cover 221 can be designed according to the number of gas storage components 100 so that the gas nozzle cover 221 has multiple connectors for sealing connection with the flexible gas storage component 110.
[0064] Optionally, multiple air storage components 100 can be connected in series and / or in parallel via connecting pipes. These connecting pipes are connected to the air storage components 100 via connecting components 300, and sealing elements are provided to ensure the airtightness of the connections and prevent gas leakage. Furthermore, control valves can be installed on the connecting pipes to control the inflation and deflation of each air storage component 100, enabling independent control of different air-using units and improving the flexibility of the car seat. For example, when only the air-using unit of the seat cushion needs to operate, the connecting pipe of the backrest air storage component 100 can be closed via the control valve, inflating only the seat cushion air storage component 100 and saving energy. When multiple air-using units need to be used simultaneously, all control valves can be opened to achieve synchronized air supply.
[0065] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of the present invention, and not to limit them; although the present invention has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can still be made to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or equivalent substitutions can be made to some or all of the technical features; and these modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention.
Claims
1. An air supply unit for a vehicle, characterized in that, include: The gas storage assembly (100) includes a flexible gas storage element (110) for storing gas and configured to be freely coiled in a vehicle seat; An air pump assembly (200) is inserted into the flexible air storage component (110) and integrally and sealed with the flexible air storage component (110). The air outlet channel (201) of the air pump assembly (200) is connected to the inner cavity of the flexible air storage component (110) for pumping compressed air into the inner cavity of the flexible air storage component (110). A connection assembly (300) is provided, one end of which is inserted into the flexible gas storage component (110) and integrally sealed with the flexible gas storage component (110), and the other end is used to output compressed gas. A locking sleeve (400) is fitted onto the flexible gas storage component (110) and is tightly connected to the flexible gas storage component (110) to ensure a tight fit between the flexible gas storage component (110) and the air pump assembly (200) and between the flexible gas storage component (110) and the connecting assembly (300).
2. The air supply unit for a vehicle according to claim 1, characterized in that, The locking sleeve (400) includes a tapered section (410) and a threaded section (420), and the flexible gas storage component (110) is provided with a corresponding tapered section (111) and a threaded section (112). The tapered hole section (410) is fitted onto the tapered section (111) to form a compression, and the threaded hole section (420) is screwed onto the threaded section (112) to form a threaded connection.
3. The air supply unit for a vehicle according to claim 2, characterized in that, The flexible gas storage component (110) is integrally and sealed with the gas pump assembly (200) and the connecting assembly (300) by hot pressing molding. The outer walls of the air pump assembly (200) and the connecting assembly (300) are provided with at least one annular sealing groove, and after hot pressing, an annular sealing protrusion corresponding to the annular sealing groove is formed on the inner wall of the flexible air storage component (110).
4. The air supply unit for a vehicle according to claim 1, characterized in that, The flexible gas storage component (110) is configured as a tubular gas storage structure; or, the flexible gas storage component (110) is configured as a combination of multiple tubular gas storage structures connected in series and / or in parallel.
5. The air supply unit for a vehicle according to claim 1, characterized in that, The flexible gas storage component (110) is configured as a flexible toothed tube, and the outer peripheral wall of the flexible toothed tube is provided with multiple connecting ribs integrally formed along its own length direction, and the multiple connecting ribs are distributed circumferentially along the outer peripheral wall of the flexible toothed tube; or, The flexible gas storage component (110) is configured as a fabric-reinforced rubber-plastic tube, one end of which is integrally connected to the air pump assembly (200), and the other end is connected to the connecting assembly (300); or, The flexible gas storage component (110) is configured as a soft corrugated pipe, with one end integrally connected to the gas pump assembly (200) and the other end connected to the connecting assembly (300); or, The flexible gas storage component (110) is configured as a cylindrical structure, with one end fitted onto the air pump assembly (200) and in an interference fit with the air pump assembly (200), and the other end connected to the connecting assembly (300).
6. The air supply unit for a vehicle according to claim 1, characterized in that, The gas storage assembly (100) further includes a support sleeve, which is fitted onto the flexible gas storage component (110) to limit the deformation of the flexible gas storage component (110).
7. The air supply unit for a vehicle according to claim 6, characterized in that, The support sleeve is connected to the frame of the vehicle seat or is part of the frame of the vehicle seat.
8. The air supply unit for a vehicle according to claim 6, characterized in that, The gas storage assembly (100) also includes a sealing sleeve, which is fitted onto the flexible gas storage component (110) and inserted into the support sleeve, thereby sealing the gap between the flexible gas storage component (110) and the support sleeve. The flexible gas storage component (110) is provided with at least two of the sealing sleeves, which together with the supporting sleeve form a sealed space.
9. The air supply unit for a vehicle according to claim 1, characterized in that, The air pump assembly includes a pressure control mechanism, which includes a detection element (211). The detection element (211) can be pushed along the first direction by the gas in the flexible gas storage element (110) and has a movement tendency opposite to the first direction, so that it can reciprocate under the action of the gas pressure change of the flexible gas storage element (110); A trigger point is provided on the reciprocating path of the detection element (211). When the detection element (211) reaches the trigger point, the air pump assembly (200) switches between start and stop states.
10. A car seat, characterized in that, The vehicle seat includes an air supply unit for a vehicle as described in any one of claims 1-9, the vehicle seat including a cushion and a backrest, the air storage assembly (100) being mounted on the cushion and the backrest respectively, and a plurality of the air storage assemblies (100) being connected in series and / or in parallel.