Seat and vehicle

Abstract

The application provides a seat and a vehicle, and relates to the technical field of vehicles, the seat, the back cavity of which comprises a first back plate provided with a first hole array and a second hole array and a second back plate provided with a third hole array, and the back cavity is internally provided with: an air blower, an air inlet of the air blower being in butt joint with the first hole array; a thermoelectric device, the thermoelectric device comprising a channel part and a heat exchange element, one end of a main channel of the channel part being in butt joint with an air outlet of the air blower, the other end of the main channel leading out a first branch channel and a second branch channel, the first branch channel being used for sending air out from the second hole array, the second branch channel being used for sending air out from the third hole array, and the heat exchange element comprising a thermocouple pair array layer, a first end face of the thermocouple pair array layer being connected with the first branch channel, and a second end face of the thermocouple pair array layer being connected with the second branch channel. Based on the scheme, the cooling performance of the seat can be improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of vehicle technology, and more specifically, to seats and vehicles. Background Technology

[0002] With the development of vehicle technology, the comfort of the vehicle cabin has gradually become an important factor in attracting users. As the core component that users directly contact with the vehicle, the comfort of the seats directly affects the user's driving and riding experience. For example, in summer scenarios, the cooling performance of the seats will be an important factor in judging the user's driving and riding comfort.

[0003] To address this, current solutions propose using fans installed within the seat back cavity for active cooling. These fans draw air from the cabin and direct it to the seat surface, carrying away heat from the user's body. However, this fan-based cooling method has poor cooling performance, and in high-temperature environments, the fan speed needs to be increased to accelerate heat dissipation, resulting in significant noise and reducing the user's driving and riding experience. Utility Model Content

[0004] This application provides a seat and a vehicle that can increase the cooling performance of the seat.

[0005] In a first aspect, a seat is provided, the back cavity of which includes a first back panel and a second back panel. The first back panel is provided with a first hole array and a second hole array, and the second back panel is provided with a third hole array. The back cavity contains: a fan, the air inlet of which is connected to the first hole array; and a thermoelectric device, which includes a channel portion and a heat exchange element. One end of the main channel of the channel portion is connected to the air outlet of the fan, and the other end of the main channel leads to a first branch channel and a second branch channel. The first branch channel is used to send air out from the second hole array, and the second branch channel is used to send air out from the third hole array. The heat exchange element includes a thermocouple pair array layer, the first end face of which is connected to the first branch channel, and the second end face of which is connected to the second branch channel.

[0006] The operation principle of the thermocouple array layer is based on the Peltier effect.

[0007] For example, when the first end face of the thermocouple pair array layer is a hot end face, the second end face of the thermocouple pair array layer is a cold end face, which can achieve the function of cooling the seat; when the first end face of the thermocouple pair array layer is a cold end face, the second end face of the thermocouple pair array layer is a hot end face, which can achieve the function of heating the seat.

[0008] For example, the first end face of the thermocouple pair array layer and the first branch channel can be directly connected in contact with each other, or they can be indirectly connected through other components. Similarly, the second end face of the thermocouple pair array layer and the second branch channel can be directly connected in contact with each other, or they can be indirectly connected through other components.

[0009] For example, the first end face of the thermocouple pair array layer can serve as part of the sidewall of the first branch channel, and the second end face of the thermocouple pair array layer can serve as part of the sidewall of the second branch channel. This can also be understood as a special connection relationship between the first end face of the thermocouple pair array layer and the first branch channel, and a special connection relationship between the second end face of the thermocouple pair array layer and the second branch channel.

[0010] For example, the second back panel mentioned above is the front back panel of the seat, and the first back panel mentioned above is the rear back panel or side back panel of the seat.

[0011] Based on the above technical solution, by introducing a thermoelectric device inside the seat, the air output from the fan installed inside the seat is guided to two different branch channels through a specially designed channel section. One branch channel, affected by the Peltier effect of the thermoelectric device, can convert the air passing through it into cold air, which is then delivered to the side of the user's body sitting in the seat. The other branch channel, also affected by the Peltier effect of the thermoelectric device, transfers the heat generated from the cold air to this branch channel, thus converting the air passing through it into hot air, which is then delivered in other directions. This significantly increases the cooling efficiency of the seat. Moreover, the introduction of the thermoelectric device reduces the workload of the fan, thereby reducing the noise from the fan.

[0012] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the aforementioned thermocouple pair array layer includes a first electrode portion, a second electrode portion, and at least one thermocouple pair located between the first electrode portion and the second electrode portion. The thermocouple pair includes a P-type semiconductor and an N-type semiconductor. The first electrode portion and the second electrode portion are used to generate a current loop, the current loop passing through the P-type semiconductor and the N-type semiconductor.

[0013] For example, the P-type semiconductor and N-type semiconductor in a thermocouple pair can be directly connected by a metal conductor (such as copper) or solder to form the cold end and hot end of the thermocouple pair.

[0014] For example, when current passes through a thermocouple pair composed of a P-type semiconductor and an N-type semiconductor, electrons enter from the N-type semiconductor to the P-type semiconductor. At this time, one side of the thermocouple pair absorbs heat from the surroundings, causing the temperature of that area to decrease, which is used to form the cold end face of the heat exchange element (the surface where the cold end face is located can be referred to as the contact surface). Correspondingly, electrons return from the P-type semiconductor to the N-type semiconductor. At this time, the other side of the thermocouple pair releases the heat previously absorbed, causing the temperature of that area to increase, which is used to form the hot end face of the heat exchange element.

[0015] For example, in the aforementioned current loop, the anode of the power supply can be connected to a P-type semiconductor of at least one thermocouple pair, and the cathode of the power supply can be connected to an N-type semiconductor of at least one thermocouple pair. Based on this, current in the current loop can flow from the P-type semiconductor to the N-type semiconductor, driving electrons from the N-type semiconductor into the P-type semiconductor. This causes one side of the thermocouple pair array layer to absorb heat from its surroundings, becoming the cold end face (corresponding to the contact surface) of the thermocouple pair array layer. Conversely, on the other side of the thermocouple pair array layer, heat transfer occurs based on at least one thermocouple pair, causing the thermocouple pair array layer to transfer the heat absorbed by the cold end face to that side to dissipate heat, becoming the hot end face of the thermocouple pair array layer 353.

[0016] Based on the above technical solution, cold and hot ends can be formed on the thermocouple array layer. Compared with seats based on fan cooling, the seat proposed in this application has stronger cooling performance.

[0017] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the heat exchange element further includes: a first heat-conducting part and a second heat-conducting part, wherein the first heat-conducting part is connected between the first end face and the first branch channel, and the second heat-conducting part is connected between the second end face and the second branch channel.

[0018] For example, the first heat-conducting part can be part of the sidewall of the first branch channel, and the second heat-conducting part can be part of the sidewall of the second branch channel.

[0019] For example, the first and second heat-conducting parts mentioned above can be a plate-shaped structure, a ring-shaped structure, or other shapes, such as L-shaped, U-shaped, etc.

[0020] For example, the materials of the first and second heat-conducting parts mentioned above can be copper, aluminum, ceramics, etc.

[0021] Based on the above technical solution, the cooling and heating efficiency of the thermoelectric device for air from the fan can be further improved.

[0022] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the first heat-conducting part is embedded in the side wall of the first branch channel, and the second heat-conducting part is embedded in the side wall of the second branch channel.

[0023] Based on the above technical solution, it helps to further improve the isolation between the first branch channel and the second branch channel, and also ensures the cooling and heating performance of the two branch channels for the wind.

[0024] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the aforementioned heat exchange element further includes: a current control element for controlling the direction of current in the current loop.

[0025] For example, the aforementioned current control element can be a double-pole double-throw switch. For instance, when the switch is flipped up, the anode of the power supply in the current loop is connected to a P-type semiconductor of at least one thermocouple pair, and the cathode of the power supply is connected to an N-type semiconductor of at least one thermocouple pair, thus achieving the seat cooling function; when the switch is flipped down, the cathode of the power supply is connected to a P-type semiconductor of at least one thermocouple pair, and the anode of the power supply is connected to an N-type semiconductor of at least one thermocouple pair, thus achieving the seat heating function.

[0026] For example, the aforementioned current control element can be a dual-channel relay. This dual-channel relay can be programmed for automatic control. For instance, when the relay is not in operation, the anode of the power supply in the current loop is connected to a P-type semiconductor of at least one thermocouple pair, and the cathode of the power supply is connected to an N-type semiconductor of at least one thermocouple pair, thus enabling the seat to cool down; when the relay is on, the cathode of the power supply is connected to a P-type semiconductor of at least one thermocouple pair, and the anode of the power supply is connected to an N-type semiconductor of at least one thermocouple pair, thus enabling the seat to heat up.

[0027] In some possible embodiments, the current control element described above can also be a switching circuit based on a transistor or a metal oxide semiconductor field effect transistor (MOSFET), which changes the current direction by controlling the conduction state of the transistor or MOSFET.

[0028] Based on the above technical solution, both cooling and heating functions of the seat can be achieved, increasing the flexibility of seat temperature control.

[0029] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the air inlet of the fan covers the first hole array, and the edge of the air inlet of the fan is sealed with the edge of the first hole array.

[0030] For example, the first array of holes described above could be a ventilation window, with the air inlet of the fan surrounding the ventilation window.

[0031] Based on the above technical solution, the fan can more easily draw air from outside the seat to form an airflow, which helps to reduce the workload of the fan and can reduce the noise generated by the fan to a certain extent.

[0032] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the first aperture array includes gradually expanding apertures.

[0033] For example, the outer diameter (the end furthest from the fan) of the expanding aperture used in the first empty array is larger than the inner diameter (the end closest to the fan).

[0034] Based on the above technical solutions, it is helpful to reduce airflow velocity and increase static pressure, thereby enhancing the intake efficiency and stability of the fan.

[0035] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the outlet of the second branch channel covers the third hole array, and the edge of the outlet of the second branch channel is sealed with the edge of the third hole array.

[0036] Based on the above technical solutions, it is helpful to deliver cold air (in cooling scenarios) or hot air (in heating scenarios) more efficiently from the seat back cavity, and to avoid the cold or hot air needed by the user being dispersed inside the back cavity and unable to be delivered from the back cavity, thus helping to improve the cooling or heating efficiency of the seat.

[0037] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the outlet of the first branch channel covers the second hole array, and the edge of the outlet of the first branch channel is sealed with the edge of the second hole array.

[0038] Based on the above technical solution, it helps to quickly expel unwanted hot or cold air from the back cavity, avoiding the accumulation of hot or cold air in the back cavity, which would affect the cooling or heating effect of the seat.

[0039] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the second aperture array includes tapered apertures, and / or, the third aperture array includes tapered apertures.

[0040] For example, the aforementioned third aperture array includes tapered apertures, where the inner diameter of the tapered aperture (the end closer to the outlet of the second branch channel) is larger than the outer diameter (the end farther from the outlet of the second branch channel).

[0041] For example, the second aperture array described above may also include tapered apertures, i.e., the inner diameter of the tapered aperture (the end closer to the outlet of the first branch channel) is larger than the outer diameter (the end farther from the outlet of the first branch channel).

[0042] Based on the above technical solutions, it is helpful to accelerate airflow and increase dynamic pressure, thereby enhancing the air delivery performance and coverage of the fan.

[0043] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the inner wall of the back cavity and / or the interior of the channel portion are coated with sound-absorbing material.

[0044] Based on the above technical solution, the sound-absorbing material can absorb the noise generated inside the seat, thereby further reducing the noise impact caused by the operation of various hardware components in the seat.

[0045] Secondly, a vehicle is provided that includes a seat that is possible in any of the first aspects described above.

[0046] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some implementations of the second aspect, the vehicle further includes a temperature control module configured to control at least one of the following based on the temperature inside the cabin: the power of the fan, the power of the heat exchange element, and the direction of the current input to the heat exchange element.

[0047] For example, when the temperature control module detects that the temperature inside the cabin is higher than a first temperature threshold, it can send a control signal to the seat's fan and heat exchange element via a communication device or local area network. This control signal activates the fan and heat exchange unit, and, based on the real-time temperature, controls at least one of the following: the power of the fan, the power of the heat exchange element, and the direction of the current input to the heat exchange element. This achieves the seat's cooling function, and the higher the temperature inside the cabin, the higher the power of the fan and / or the heat exchange element.

[0048] For example, when the temperature control module detects that the temperature inside the cabin is lower than a second temperature threshold, it can send a control signal to the seat's fan and heat exchange components via a communication device or local area network. This control signal activates the fan and heat exchange unit, and based on the real-time temperature, it controls at least one of the following: the power of the fan, the power of the heat exchange components, and the direction of the current input to the heat exchange components. In this case, the seat can be heated, and the lower the temperature inside the cabin, the higher the power of the fan and / or the heat exchange components.

[0049] Based on the above technical solution, the working power of the seat temperature regulation equipment can be dynamically adjusted, so that the seat's cooling or heating efficiency can change with the ambient temperature, which helps to further improve the user's driving and riding comfort. Attached Figure Description

[0050] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a vehicle cabin scenario provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0051] Figure 2This is a structural diagram of a seat with a cooling function at present.

[0052] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a seat 300 according to an embodiment of this application;

[0053] Figure 4 This is a perspective view of the main hardware structure within the back cavity 310 as proposed in the embodiments of this application;

[0054] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of a heat exchange element 350 according to an embodiment of this application;

[0055] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram showing the connection between the fan 320 and the thermoelectric device 330 according to an embodiment of this application;

[0056] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of another heat exchange element 350 proposed in the embodiments of this application;

[0057] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the connection relationship between a fan 320 and a first hole array 301 as proposed in an embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0058] The technical solutions in this application will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0059] It should be noted that, in the description of the embodiments of this application, unless otherwise stated, " / " means "or". For example, A / B can mean A or B. The "and / or" in this article is merely a description of the relationship between related objects, indicating that there can be three relationships. For example, A and / or B can mean: A exists alone, A and B exist simultaneously, and B exists alone.

[0060] In the embodiments of this application, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of indicated technical features. Therefore, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature. Furthermore, in the description of the embodiments of this application, "multiple" refers to two or more, and "at least one" and "one or more" refer to one, two, or more than two. The singular expressions "a," "an," "the," "the," "the," and "this" are intended to also include expressions such as "one or more," unless the context explicitly indicates otherwise.

[0061] References to "one embodiment" or "some embodiments" as described in this specification mean that one or more embodiments of this application include a specific feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment. Therefore, the phrases "in one embodiment," "in some embodiments," "in other embodiments," "in still other embodiments," etc., appearing in different parts of this specification do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, but rather mean "one or more, but not all, embodiments," unless otherwise specifically emphasized. The terms "comprising," "including," "having," and variations thereof mean "including but not limited to," unless otherwise specifically emphasized.

[0062] In the description of the embodiments of this application, the terms "upper," "lower," "left," "right," "inner," "outer," "vertical," and "horizontal," etc., indicate orientations or positional relationships relative to the indicated placement of components in the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that these directional terms are relative concepts, used for relative description and clarification, and not to indicate or imply a specific orientation that the device or component must have, or its construction and operation in a specific orientation. They can change accordingly depending on the orientation of the components in the accompanying drawings, and therefore should not be construed as limiting this application. Furthermore, "vertical" in this application is not strictly vertical, but within the allowable error range. "Parallel" is not strictly parallel, but within the allowable error range.

[0063] In the embodiments of this application, the same reference numerals are used to denote the same component or part. For the same part in the embodiments of this application, only one part or component may be labeled with reference numerals in the figures. It should be understood that the reference numerals also apply to other identical parts or components. In addition, the various parts in the figures are not drawn to scale, and the dimensions and sizes of the parts shown in the figures are only exemplary and should not be construed as limiting this application.

[0064] The seat provided in this application can be applied to a mobile carrier, which can include road vehicles, water vehicles, air vehicles, industrial equipment, agricultural equipment, or entertainment equipment. For example, the mobile carrier can be a vehicle, which is a vehicle in a broad sense, including transportation vehicles (such as commercial vehicles, passenger cars, motorcycles, flying cars, trains, etc.), industrial vehicles (such as forklifts, trailers, tractors, etc.), engineering vehicles (such as excavators, bulldozers, cranes, etc.), agricultural equipment (such as lawnmowers, harvesters, etc.), amusement equipment, toy vehicles, etc. The embodiments of this application do not specifically limit the type of vehicle. Furthermore, the mobile carrier can be a means of transportation such as an airplane or a ship.

[0065] For ease of description, this application will use a smart car as an example for illustration.

[0066] With the rapid development of the automotive industry, automobiles have gradually evolved from simple means of transportation into mobile living spaces that integrate comfort, safety, and intelligence.

[0067] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a vehicle cabin scenario provided in an embodiment of this application. The smart cabin includes one or more in-vehicle displays (or in-vehicle screens), including but not limited to display 101 (or central control screen), display 102 (or passenger entertainment screen), display 103 (or driver's headrest rear screen), display 104 (or passenger headrest rear screen), display 105 (or second-row entertainment screen) mounted on the cabin ceiling, door panel screen 106 and armrest screen 107 in the rear rows, and an instrument panel screen. Further, displays 101 to 107 can display a graphical user interface (GUI), which may include icons for one or more applications and / or one or more cards. In some possible implementations, display 101 may also be a long, continuous screen extending to the passenger area. Additionally, display 105 may be a projection screen associated with a projector, which may be associated with a desktop launcher, allowing management of applications projected onto the projection screen. Alternatively, display screen 105 can also be a rollable screen.

[0068] Figure 1 The cockpit can also be equipped with one or more cameras to capture images inside or outside the cockpit, such as cameras from a driver monitor system (DMS), a cabin monitor system (CMS), and a dashcam. These cameras can be the same or different cameras. In addition, one or more pressure sensors and acoustic sensors are installed in the cockpit to monitor the presence and location of users.

[0069] It should be understood that the following embodiments are based on Figure 1The embodiments shown are illustrated using a 5-seat vehicle as an example, but the present application is not limited to this. For example, for a 7-seat sport / suburban utility vehicle (SUV), the cabin may include a central control screen, a passenger entertainment screen, a screen behind the driver's headrest, a screen behind the passenger's headrest, entertainment screens in the left-hand area of ​​the third row, and entertainment screens in the right-hand area of ​​the third row. As another example, for a bus, the cabin may include front and rear entertainment screens; or, the cabin may include a display screen in the driver's area and an entertainment screen in the passenger area. Furthermore, the following embodiments use a left-hand drive vehicle (i.e., the driver is on the left side of the vehicle) as an example; in actual implementation, the vehicle may also be a right-hand drive vehicle (i.e., the driver is on the right side of the vehicle).

[0070] Optionally, the above-described internal structure of the smart cockpit is merely illustrative. In actual applications, the various components inside the smart cockpit can be added or removed as needed.

[0071] The aforementioned intelligent cockpit can provide users with intelligent services and also assist in the safety of driving. However, the comfort of the vehicle cabin is gradually becoming an important factor in attracting users. As the core component that users directly contact with the vehicle, the comfort of the seats directly affects the user's driving experience. For example, in summer scenarios, the cooling performance of the seats will be an important factor in evaluating user driving comfort.

[0072] Taking the need for seat cooling as an example, the current approach is to install a fan inside the seat back cavity to achieve the seat cooling function.

[0073] Figure 2 This is a structural diagram of a seat with a cooling function at present.

[0074] refer to Figure 2 As shown, a fan is installed inside the back cavity of the seat. The air inlet of the fan is connected to a ventilation window on the back panel away from the user in the back cavity, and the air outlet of the fan is connected to a ventilation window on the back panel closer to the user in the back cavity.

[0075] After the fan is activated, it can draw in air from outside the back cavity and direct it to the surface of the seat near the user. The air is then blown out through this surface and onto the user's body, carrying away heat from the user's body surface, thereby achieving active heat dissipation for the seat and the user, thus improving the user's driving and riding experience.

[0076] However, in the hot summer, especially after a vehicle has been parked outdoors for a long time, the surface temperature of the seats may be very high (far higher than the user's body temperature). Therefore, in order to increase the cooling speed of the seats as much as possible, the fan speed needs to be increased significantly. Since the operation of the fan inevitably produces some noise, increasing the fan speed significantly will produce even more noise, thus affecting the user's driving and riding comfort. Moreover, the air used by the fan for cooling comes from the cabin. When the air temperature inside the cabin is high, the above-mentioned conventional fan-based seat cooling technology is difficult to quickly reduce the seat temperature to a comfortable range.

[0077] In view of this, this application proposes a seat and vehicle in which a thermoelectric device is provided in the air supply channel of the fan. The thermoelectric device can cool the air delivered by the fan and deliver the cold air to the back panel of the seat near the user. The cold air is then delivered through the ventilation holes provided in the back panel, thereby significantly increasing the cooling efficiency of the seat. Moreover, the introduction of the thermoelectric device reduces the workload of the fan, thereby reducing the noise from the fan.

[0078] Figure 3 This is a structural schematic diagram of a seat 300 according to an embodiment of this application. Figure 3 (a) in the figure is a side perspective view of seat 300. Figure 3 (b) is a side sectional view of seat 300, which shows the main hardware structure and connection relationship inside the back cavity 310 of seat 300.

[0079] Figure 4 This is a three-dimensional view of the main hardware structure inside the back cavity 310 proposed in the embodiments of this application.

[0080] refer to Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the back cavity 310 of the seat 300 includes a first back plate 311 and a second back plate 312. The first back plate 311 is provided with a first hole array 301 and a second hole array 302, and the second back plate 312 is provided with a third hole array 303. The back cavity 310 is provided with:

[0081] Fan 320, the air inlet 321 of fan 320 is connected to the first hole array 301;

[0082] Thermoelectric device 330 includes a channel portion 340 and a heat exchange element 350. One end of the main channel 343 of the channel portion 340 is connected to the air outlet 322 of the fan 320. The other end of the main channel 343 leads to a first branch channel 341 and a second branch channel 342. The first branch channel 341 is used to send air out from the second hole array 302, and the second branch channel 342 is used to send air out from the third hole array 303. The heat exchange element 350 includes a thermocouple pair array layer 353. The first end face of the thermocouple pair array layer 353 is connected to the first branch channel 341, and the second end face of the thermocouple pair array layer 353 is connected to the second branch channel 342.

[0083] The backrest cavity 310 can be constructed using the supporting frame of the seat 300 and corresponding panels, including side panels, a bottom panel, and a back panel. The side panels are located on both sides of the seat, supporting the lateral structure of the backrest and seat cushion. The bottom panel is the support plate at the bottom of the seat, connecting the seat rails and the vehicle floor. The back panel includes a front back panel and a rear back panel, serving as internal support plates to enhance the stability of the backrest. The front back panel faces the user and is located on the side of the seat back closest to the user, directly contacting the user's back. The rear back panel faces away from the user and is located on the side of the seat back furthest from the user. Considering that side panels typically perform similar supporting or connecting functions as back panels in their design, this embodiment of the application incorporates the side panels into the back panel, which can be referred to as side-back panels.

[0084] In some possible embodiments, the second back panel 312 is the front back panel of the seat 300, and the first back panel 311 is the rear back panel or side back panel of the seat 300.

[0085] The operating principle of the aforementioned thermoelectric device 330 is based on the Peltier effect (a type of thermoelectric effect). The Peltier effect refers to the phenomenon that when an electric current passes through two different conductors or semiconductors, the junction of the two conductors or semiconductors absorbs or releases heat. For example, if the current flows from one material to another, one end of the material will absorb heat (cooling) and the other end will release heat (heating); if the direction of the current is reversed, the heat-absorbing and heat-releasing ends will also be interchanged.

[0086] In some possible embodiments, the first end face of the thermocouple pair array layer 353 and the first branch channel 341 can be directly connected in contact with each other, or they can be indirectly connected through other components. Similarly, the second end face of the thermocouple pair array layer 353 and the second branch channel 342 can be directly connected in contact with each other, or they can be indirectly connected through other components.

[0087] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of a heat exchange element 350 according to an embodiment of this application. Wherein, Figure 5 (a) is a three-dimensional view of heat exchange element 350. Figure 5 (b) A longitudinal cross-sectional view of the heat exchange element 350, which is obtained based on the longitudinal section of AA.

[0088] The heat exchange element 350 can be a thermoelectric cooler (TEC) based on the Peltier effect, also known as a thermoelectric refrigerator. Its principle is to utilize the thermoelectric effect of semiconductor materials to achieve cooling or heating. (Reference) Figure 5 As shown, the thermocouple pair array layer 353 includes a first electrode portion 354, a second electrode portion 355, and at least one thermocouple pair 356, wherein at least one thermocouple pair 356 is located between the first electrode portion 354 and the second electrode portion 355. The thermocouple pair 356 includes a P-type semiconductor and an N-type semiconductor. The first electrode portion 354 and the second electrode portion 355 are used to generate a current loop, and the current loop passes through the P-type semiconductor and the N-type semiconductor.

[0089] In some possible embodiments, the first electrode portion 354 and the second electrode portion 355 may be an electrode plate, or a plate-like structure with a certain circuit pattern, or the first electrode portion 354 and the second electrode portion 355 may include a plurality of sub-electrodes with electrical connections.

[0090] It should be noted that P-type semiconductors are made by doping pure semiconductor materials with a small amount of trivalent elements (such as boron). This doping results in a large number of "holes," or sites lacking electrons, in the semiconductor material. These holes can move like positive charges, so P-type semiconductors can conduct electricity through holes. N-type semiconductors, on the other hand, are made by doping pure semiconductor materials with a small amount of pentavalent elements (such as phosphorus). This doping results in a large number of free electrons in the semiconductor material. These electrons can move like negative charges, so N-type semiconductors can conduct electricity through electrons. When P-type and N-type semiconductors are joined together using appropriate processes, a thermocouple is formed. Due to the different electronic properties of P-type and N-type semiconductors, when current passes through this thermocouple, a Peltier effect occurs at the junction of the P-type and N-type semiconductors.

[0091] In the thermocouple pair 356, the P-type semiconductor and the N-type semiconductor can be directly connected by a metal conductor (such as copper) or solder to form the cold end and hot end of the thermocouple pair 356.

[0092] For example, when current passes through a thermocouple pair 356 composed of a P-type semiconductor and an N-type semiconductor, electrons enter from the N-type semiconductor to the P-type semiconductor. At this time, one side of the thermocouple pair 356 absorbs heat from the surroundings, causing the temperature of that area to decrease, which is used to form the cold end face of the heat exchange element 350 (the surface where the cold end face is located can be referred to as the contact surface). Correspondingly, electrons return from the P-type semiconductor to the N-type semiconductor. At this time, the other side of the thermocouple pair 356 releases the heat previously absorbed, causing the temperature of that area to increase, which is used to form the hot end face of the heat exchange element 350.

[0093] In some possible embodiments, the anode (+) of the power supply 357 in the aforementioned current loop can be connected to the P-type semiconductor of at least one thermocouple pair 356, and the cathode (-) of the power supply 357 can be connected to the N-type semiconductor of at least one thermocouple pair 356. Based on this, current in the current loop can flow from the P-type semiconductor to the N-type semiconductor, driving electrons from the N-type semiconductor to the P-type semiconductor, causing one side of the thermocouple pair array layer 353 to absorb surrounding heat, becoming the cold end face (corresponding to the contact surface) of the thermocouple pair array layer 353.

[0094] In some possible embodiments, the positional relationship between the cold and hot ends of the thermocouple pair array layer 353 can be adaptively adjusted through corresponding hardware structure design or the arrangement of the thermocouple pairs. For example, the plane containing the cold end of the thermocouple pair array layer 353 and the plane containing the hot end can be parallel, perpendicular, or other intersecting.

[0095] Conversely, on the other side of the thermocouple pair array layer 353, heat transfer is performed based on at least one thermocouple pair 356, such that the thermocouple pair array layer 353 transfers the heat absorbed by the cold end face to that side to dissipate heat, thus becoming the hot end face of the thermocouple pair array layer 353.

[0096] In some possible embodiments, if the second end face of the thermocouple pair array layer 353 is a cold end face, then when the heat exchange element 350 is working, the air passing near the second end face can be cooled to form cold air; correspondingly, the first end face of the thermocouple pair array layer 353 is a hot end face, and the air passing near the first end face can be heated to form hot air. The reverse is also true.

[0097] In some possible embodiments, the first end face of the thermocouple pair array layer 353 can be part of the sidewall of the first branch channel 341, and the second end face of the thermocouple pair array layer 353 can be part of the sidewall of the second branch channel 342. This can also be understood as a special connection relationship between the first end face of the thermocouple pair array layer 353 and the first branch channel 341, and a special connection relationship between the second end face of the thermocouple pair array layer 353 and the second branch channel 342.

[0098] In some possible embodiments, reference Figure 5 As shown in (b), the heat exchange element may further include: a first heat-conducting part 351 and / or a second heat-conducting part 352, wherein the first heat-conducting part 351 is connected between the first end face of the thermocouple pair array layer 353 and the first branch channel 341, and the second heat-conducting part 352 is connected between the second end face of the thermocouple pair array layer 353 and the second branch channel 342, thereby helping to increase the heat transfer efficiency of the thermocouple pair array layer 353.

[0099] Based on this, the first heat-conducting part 351 can be part of the sidewall of the first branch channel 341, and the second heat-conducting part 352 can be part of the sidewall of the second branch channel 342.

[0100] In some possible embodiments, the first heat-conducting part 351 and the second heat-conducting part 352 described above can be a plate-shaped structure, a ring-shaped structure, or other shapes, such as L-shaped, U-shaped, etc.

[0101] In some possible embodiments, the materials of the first heat-conducting part 351 and the second heat-conducting part 352 may be copper, aluminum, ceramic, etc.

[0102] Based on the operating mechanism of the thermoelectric device 330, the cooling function of the second back panel 312 of the seat can be achieved. In order to avoid mutual interference between the cold air and hot air generated by the heat exchange function of the heat exchange element 350 and reduce the cooling effect, the channel section 340 is designed as a branched channel structure.

[0103] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram showing the connection between the fan 320 and the thermoelectric device 330 according to an embodiment of this application.

[0104] In some possible embodiments, reference Figure 6As shown, the channel section 340 in the thermoelectric device 330 may include a main channel 343. One end of the main channel 343 is connected to the air outlet 322 of the fan 320, and the other end can be divided into two branch channels: a first branch channel 341 and a second branch channel 342. The main bodies of these two branch channels 342 are not connected, and they are only connected to the main channel 343.

[0105] In combination with the above Figure 3 or Figure 4 It is understood that the first branch channel 341 is used to send air out from the second hole array 302. This means the air output from the first branch channel 341 is not directed towards the surface of the seat 300 that contacts the user, or towards the user's body while sitting in the seat 300. Therefore, in a seat cooling scenario, the first branch channel 341 can be used to output hot air. Correspondingly, the second branch channel 342 is used to send air out from the third hole array 303. This means the air output from the second branch channel 342 is directed towards the surface of the seat 300 that contacts the user, or towards the user's body while sitting in the seat 300. Therefore, in a seat cooling scenario, the second branch channel 342 can be used to output cold air. Based on this channel section 340, the isolated delivery of hot and cold air can be achieved, avoiding the mixing of hot and cold air and reducing the cooling efficiency of the seat 300.

[0106] In some possible embodiments, to enable the first branch channel 341 to output hot air and the second branch channel 342 to output cold air, as described above, the first heat-conducting part 351 can correspond to the hot end face of the heat exchange element 350, and the second heat-conducting part 352 can correspond to the cold end face of the heat exchange element 350. When the heat exchange element 350 includes the first heat-conducting part 351 and the second heat-conducting part 352, in order to further improve the isolation between the first branch channel 341 and the second branch channel 342, and to ensure the cooling and heating performance of the two branch channels for air, the first heat-conducting part 351 can be embedded in the side wall of the first branch channel 341, and the second heat-conducting part 352 can be embedded in the side wall of the second branch channel 342.

[0107] Based on the above technical solution, by introducing a thermoelectric device inside the seat, the air output from the fan installed inside the seat is guided to two different branch channels through a specially designed channel section. One branch channel, affected by the Peltier effect of the thermoelectric device, can convert the air passing through it into cold air, which is then delivered to the side of the user's body sitting in the seat. The other branch channel, also affected by the Peltier effect of the thermoelectric device, transfers the heat generated from the cold air to this branch channel, thus converting the air passing through it into hot air, which is then delivered in other directions. This significantly increases the cooling efficiency of the seat. Moreover, the introduction of the thermoelectric device reduces the workload of the fan, thereby reducing the noise from the fan.

[0108] For example, when the current flows from the P-type semiconductor of at least one thermocouple pair 356 to the N-type semiconductor, the second heat-conducting part 352 is connected to the cold end face of the heat exchange element 350, and the first heat-conducting part 351 is connected to the hot end face of the heat exchange element 350. In this case, the thermoelectric device 330 can be used to cool the seat 300.

[0109] However, assuming that the current flows from the N-type semiconductor of at least one thermocouple pair 356 to the P-type semiconductor, the cold end and the hot end of the heat exchange element 350 will be reversed. Therefore, the second heat-conducting part 352 is connected to the hot end of the heat exchange element 350, and the first heat-conducting part 351 is connected to the cold end of the heat exchange element 350. In this case, the thermoelectric device 330 can be used to heat up the seat 300.

[0110] Considering that users may not use the vehicle during the hot summer, the basic architecture of the aforementioned thermoelectric device 330 can be reused in the cold winter. By changing the current direction of the current loop, the function of heating the back of the seat 300 can be achieved.

[0111] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of another heat exchange element 350 proposed in the embodiments of this application.

[0112] refer to Figure 7 As shown, compared to the heat exchange element 350 proposed in any of the aforementioned embodiments, Figure 7 The heat exchange element 350 shown also includes a current control element 358 for controlling the direction of current in the current loop.

[0113] In some possible embodiments, the current control element 358 described above can be a double-pole double-throw switch. For example, when the switch is flipped up, the anode of the power supply 357 is connected to the P-type semiconductor of at least one thermocouple pair 356, and the cathode of the power supply 357 is connected to the N-type semiconductor of at least one thermocouple pair 356, thereby achieving the cooling function of the seat 300; when the switch is flipped down, the cathode of the power supply 357 is connected to the P-type semiconductor of at least one thermocouple pair 356, and the anode of the power supply 357 is connected to the N-type semiconductor of at least one thermocouple pair 356, thereby achieving the heating function of the seat 300.

[0114] In some possible embodiments, the current control element 358 described above can be a dual-channel relay. This dual-channel relay can be programmed for automatic control. For example, when the relay is not in operation, the anode of the power supply 357 is connected to the P-type semiconductor of at least one thermocouple pair 356, and the cathode of the power supply 357 is connected to the N-type semiconductor of at least one thermocouple pair 356, thus enabling the cooling function of the seat 300; when the relay is on, the cathode of the power supply 357 is connected to the P-type semiconductor of at least one thermocouple pair 356, and the anode of the power supply 357 is connected to the N-type semiconductor of at least one thermocouple pair 356, thus enabling the heating function of the seat 300.

[0115] In some possible embodiments, the current control element 358 described above can also be a switching circuit based on a transistor or MOSFET, which changes the current direction by controlling the conduction state of the transistor or MOSFET.

[0116] The principle of heating the seat 300 through the aforementioned thermoelectric device 330 is detailed in the corresponding content of the previous embodiment and will not be repeated here. In terms of the result of functional implementation, compared with the cooling scenario, the second branch channel 342 in the heating scenario is used to deliver hot air to one side of the user's body sitting on the seat, and the first branch channel 341 is used to deliver cold air to other directions.

[0117] Based on the above technical solution, both cooling and heating functions of the seat can be achieved, increasing the flexibility of seat temperature control.

[0118] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the connection relationship between a fan 320 and a first hole array 301 as proposed in an embodiment of this application.

[0119] In some possible embodiments, reference Figure 8As shown, the air inlet 321 of the aforementioned fan 320 covers the first hole array 301, and the edge of the air inlet 321 of the fan 320 is sealed to the edge of the first hole array 301. Based on this, the fan 320 can more easily draw air from outside the seat 300 to form an airflow, which helps to reduce the workload of the fan 320 and can reduce the noise generated by the fan 320 to a certain extent.

[0120] For example, the first hole array 301 described above can be a ventilation window, and the air inlet 321 of the fan 320 surrounds the ventilation window.

[0121] In some possible embodiments, the first aperture array 301 described above includes a gradually expanding aperture, such as a flared aperture, where the outer diameter of the expanding aperture (the end furthest from the fan 320) is larger than the inner diameter (the end closest to the fan 320). This helps to reduce airflow velocity and increase static pressure, thereby enhancing the fan's intake efficiency and stability.

[0122] In some possible embodiments, similar to the docking relationship between the air inlet of the aforementioned fan 320 and the first hole array 301, the outlet of the aforementioned second branch channel 342 can also cover the third hole array 303, and the edge of the outlet of the aforementioned second branch channel 342 is sealed with the edge of the third hole array 303. Based on this, it helps to deliver cold air (in cooling scenarios) or hot air (in heating scenarios) more efficiently from the back cavity 310 of the seat 300, and can prevent the cold or hot air needed by the user from being dispersed inside the back cavity 310 and unable to be delivered from the back cavity 310, thus helping to improve the cooling or heating efficiency of the seat 300.

[0123] For example, the aforementioned third hole array 303 can be a ventilation window, and the outlet of the aforementioned second branch channel 342 surrounds the ventilation window.

[0124] In some possible embodiments, the third aperture array 303 described above includes tapered apertures, meaning that the inner diameter of the tapered aperture (the end closer to the outlet of the second branch channel 342) is larger than the outer diameter (the end farther from the outlet of the second branch channel 342). This helps to accelerate airflow, increase dynamic pressure, and thus enhance the air delivery performance and coverage of the fan 320.

[0125] In some possible embodiments, when the edge of the outlet of the second branch channel 342 is sealed with the edge of the third hole array 303, the air outlet of the first branch channel 341 can be suspended inside the back cavity 310. Since the first hole array 301 and the third hole array 303 provided on the back plate of the back cavity 310 have been sealed, the hot or cold air that the user does not need dispersed inside the back cavity 310 can be dispersed out through the second hole array 302.

[0126] In some possible embodiments, similarly, the outlet of the first branch channel 341 can directly cover the second hole array 302, and the edge of the outlet of the first branch channel 341 is sealed to the edge of the second hole array 302. Based on this, it helps to quickly expel unwanted hot or cold air from the back cavity 310, preventing hot or cold air from accumulating in the back cavity 310 and affecting the cooling or heating effect of the seat 300.

[0127] For example, the second hole array 302 described above can be a ventilation window, and the outlet of the first branch channel 341 described above surrounds the ventilation window.

[0128] In some possible embodiments, the second aperture array 302 described above may also include a tapered aperture, wherein the inner diameter of the tapered aperture (the end closer to the outlet of the first branch channel 341) is larger than the outer diameter (the end farther from the outlet of the first branch channel 341).

[0129] In some possible embodiments, in order to further reduce the noise caused by the operation of the various hardware components in the seat 300, sound-absorbing material may be coated on the inner wall of the back cavity 310 and / or the interior of the channel portion 340 to absorb the noise generated inside the seat 300.

[0130] Furthermore, this application also proposes a vehicle that includes any of the seats 300 proposed in this application.

[0131] In some possible embodiments, the vehicle may further include a temperature control module configured to control at least one of the following based on the temperature inside the cabin: the power of the fan 320, the power of the heat exchange element 350, and the direction of the current input to the heat exchange element 350.

[0132] For example, when the temperature control module detects that the temperature inside the cabin is higher than a first temperature threshold, it can send a control signal to the fan 320 and heat exchange element 350 of the seat 300 via a communication device or local area network. This control signal activates the fan and heat exchange element 350, and, based on the real-time temperature, controls at least one of the following: the power of the fan 320, the power of the heat exchange element 350, and the direction of the current input to the heat exchange element 350. In this case, the seat 300 can be cooled, and the higher the temperature inside the cabin, the higher the power of the fan 320 and / or the heat exchange element 350.

[0133] Similarly, when the temperature control module detects that the temperature inside the cabin is lower than a second temperature threshold, it can send a control signal to the fan 320 and heat exchange element 350 of the seat 300 via a communication device or local area network. This control signal activates the fan and heat exchange element 350, and, based on the real-time temperature, controls at least one of the following: the power of the fan 320, the power of the heat exchange element 350, and the direction of the current input to the heat exchange element 350. This enables the seat 300 to be heated, and the lower the temperature inside the cabin, the higher the power of the fan 320 and / or the heat exchange element 350.

[0134] Based on the above technical solution, the working power of the seat temperature regulation equipment can be dynamically adjusted, so that the seat's cooling or heating efficiency can change with the ambient temperature, which helps to further improve the user's driving and riding comfort.

[0135] In the several embodiments provided in this application, it should be understood that the disclosed systems, apparatuses, and methods can be implemented in other ways. For example, the apparatus embodiments described above are merely illustrative; for instance, the division of units is only a logical functional division, and in actual implementation, there may be other division methods. For example, multiple units or components may be combined or integrated into another system, or some features may be ignored or not executed. Furthermore, the coupling or direct coupling or communication connection shown or discussed may be through some interfaces; the indirect coupling or communication connection between apparatuses or units may be electrical, mechanical, or other forms.

[0136] The units described as separate components may or may not be physically separate. The components shown as units may or may not be physical units; that is, they may be located in one place or distributed across multiple network units. Some or all of the units can be selected to achieve the purpose of this embodiment according to actual needs.

[0137] The above description is merely a specific embodiment of this application, but the scope of protection of this application is not limited thereto. Any variations or substitutions that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art within the technical scope disclosed in this application should be covered. Therefore, the scope of protection of this application should be determined by the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A seat, characterized in that, The seat back cavity includes a first back panel and a second back panel. The first back panel is provided with a first hole array and a second hole array, and the second back panel is provided with a third hole array. The back cavity is provided with: A fan, wherein the air inlet of the fan is connected to the first hole array; A thermoelectric device includes a channel section and a heat exchange element. One end of the main channel of the channel section is connected to the air outlet of the fan, and the other end of the main channel leads to a first branch channel and a second branch channel. The first branch channel is used to send air out from a second hole array, and the second branch channel is used to send air out from a third hole array. The heat exchange element includes a thermocouple pair array layer. The first end face of the thermocouple pair array layer is connected to the first branch channel, and the second end face of the thermocouple pair array layer is connected to the second branch channel.

2. The seat of claim 1, wherein The thermocouple pair array layer includes a first electrode portion, a second electrode portion, and at least one thermocouple pair. The at least one thermocouple pair is located between the first electrode portion and the second electrode portion. The thermocouple pair includes a P-type semiconductor and an N-type semiconductor. The first electrode portion and the second electrode portion are used to generate a current loop, and the current loop passes through the P-type semiconductor and the N-type semiconductor.

3. The seat according to claim 2, characterized in that, The heat exchange element further includes: a first heat-conducting part and / or a second heat-conducting part, wherein the first heat-conducting part is connected between the first end face and the first branch channel, and the second heat-conducting part is connected between the second end face and the second branch channel.

4. The seat according to claim 3, characterized in that, The first heat-conducting part is embedded in the side wall of the first branch channel, and the second heat-conducting part is embedded in the side wall of the second branch channel.

5. The seat according to any one of claims 2 to 4, characterized in that, The heat exchange element further includes: A current control element is used to control the direction of current in the current loop.

6. The seat according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The air inlet of the fan covers the first hole array, and the edge of the air inlet of the fan is sealed to the edge of the first hole array.

7. The seat according to claim 6, characterized in that, The first aperture array includes gradually expanding apertures.

8. The seat according to claim 7, characterized in that, The outlet of the second branch channel covers the third hole array, and the edge of the outlet of the second branch channel is sealed with the edge of the third hole array.

9. The seat according to claim 8, characterized in that, The outlet of the first branch channel covers the second hole array, and the edge of the outlet of the first branch channel is sealed with the edge of the second hole array.

10. The seat according to any one of claims 7 to 9, characterized in that, The second aperture array includes tapered apertures, and / or the third aperture array includes tapered apertures.

11. The seat according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The inner wall of the back cavity and / or the interior of the channel portion are coated with sound-absorbing material.

12. A vehicle, characterized in that, The vehicle's cabin includes seats as described in any one of claims 1 to 11.

13. The vehicle according to claim 12, characterized in that, The vehicle further includes a temperature control module configured to control at least one of the following based on the temperature inside the cabin: the power of the fan, the power of the heat exchange element, and the direction of the current input to the heat exchange element.

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