Ventilation device for the interior of a motor vehicle, in particular in the area of ​​a second row of seats

Abstract

Ventilation device (10) for an interior area of ​​a motor vehicle, in particular in an area of ​​a second row of seats, comprising - at least one air duct element (18), - at least one supply device coupled to a first end of the at least one air duct element (18) as part of an air conditioning system of the motor vehicle, - at least one air outlet element (24) which is coupled to a second end of the at least one air duct element (18) and is arranged in the non-visible area of ​​the interior, - at least one directional element (25), wherein the arrangements of the at least one directional element (25) and the at least one air outlet element (24) together ensure that the ventilation device (10) is continuously adjustable between at least two ventilation states in the interior, which differ at least in each case by a direction of outflowing air directed directly into the interior and an indirect direction along a headliner designed for this purpose with respect to a seating area of ​​the motor vehicle, and - at least one light element (30), characterized in that the at least one directional element (25) is arranged in the non-visible roof area (14) of the interior, wherein activation of the at least one directional element (25) causes a change in shape of the adjacent visible roof area (14) or activation of the at least one directional element (25) causes this directional element (25) to fold out from the non-visible roof area (14) of the interior into the visible roof area (14), so that in both cases a direction of outflowing air from the at least one air outlet element (24) can be adjusted from one ventilation state to another ventilation state.

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a ventilation device for the interior of a motor vehicle, particularly in the area of ​​a second row of seats. Many of the climate control functions already known today are often only available to the front rows of seats. For example, air vents with spot-diffuse function or draft-free ventilation and fully-fledged climate control units for controlling the climate function are known for this purpose. If air vents are provided for other areas in the interior of a motor vehicle, for example in the form of rear vents, their size, functions, and position are often severely limited by the installation space restrictions in the second row of seats. Consequently, a development has emerged that provides fully-fledged climate control units for the rear area, for example in luxury vehicles, with air vents in the B-pillar or draft-free ventilation in the headliner.These solutions can be provided in addition to those integrated into the center console. Seat heating, seat ventilation, and neck warmers are already common features to support climate control. However, the accessibility of these features to occupants via B-pillar vents is limited and often only possible asymmetrically. Furthermore, the installation space for additional vent functions, such as diffuse or draft-free airflow, is not readily available in this area. This is due, among other things, to the position of the front seats, or the front seats alone, and the limited space in the center console. Additionally, the available space in the roof is often limited by the presence of a glass roof. Finally, the accessibility of upper body vents in the center console is only partially guaranteed.Recently, more and more solutions have been presented that focus on draft-free ventilation in the roof liner as a key aspect of technical innovations.

[0002] German patent application DE 101 10 191 A1 discloses a vehicle roof with a cover for closing a roof opening, which includes at least one air duct to direct an airflow onto the windshield. It also provides at least one means for directing at least part of the airflow towards a vehicle occupant. Thus, this solution demonstrates ways to provide direct airflow, enabling the desired result to be achieved. Indirect airflow is not provided.

[0003] German patent application DE 102 42 805 A1 discloses a ventilation device for a motor vehicle. This device includes an air outlet in the vehicle's headliner. The air outlet is visibly located at the front end of a roof crossmember, with the roof crossmember structure, including the roof crossmember itself or parts thereof, serving as an air duct. The ventilation device is designed for the indirect and uniform ventilation of the passenger compartment. No deliberate separation between at least two ventilation states within the interior is provided. Nor is a distinction made between a direct and an indirect direction of outgoing air.

[0004] German patent application DE 10 2014 222 139 A1 discloses a motor vehicle. The vehicle's interior, and thus the occupants, are cooled by means of outgoing air. Air outlets are provided on both sides of opposing longitudinal sections of the roof frame, corresponding to the number of seat rows. Furthermore, the vehicle is equipped with a system that detects when a person is seated. A control system then directs a specific airflow to the person seated. In particular, the system provides for an indirect airflow resulting from two converging airflows. The desired result can be achieved depending on how these two airflows are directed via throttle valves and air delivery systems.

[0005] German patent DE 10 2015 112 898 A1 discloses an air conditioning and ventilation system for a motor vehicle. At least one vehicle seat is equipped with a roof vent system, including at least one roof vent. The roof vent features means that allow for the segmentation of the active discharge areas. Each segment has a vertical air supply into the vehicle interior, with a selection of climate zones. A large roof vent has a series of openings, which assume a specific opening state depending on the selected segmentation and corresponding climate zone. Segmentation parallel to the direction of travel is also proposed. Furthermore, lighting is proposed that is switched on and off depending on the selected segmentation.Together, the roof vent and the openings cannot alter the preset direction of airflow, which is either vertical or parallel to the direction of travel, as determined by the respective design variant. An undirected vertical airflow into the passenger compartment is achieved solely due to the limited volume of air supplied. Changing the vertical direction, for example, to create an airflow along the headliner, is not possible. Therefore, the lighting cannot indicate such a condition.

[0006] A known air conditioning register for a ceiling can be found in publication JP 2017 030 684 A. An air distribution element is designed to direct air from a designated air outlet in a cabin ceiling section of a vehicle to an interior surface of the vehicle cabin. The air distribution element comprises an air distribution plate, a shaft section, and another shaft section. The air distribution plate and the shaft sections are arranged in a channel. The degree of deformation of the air distribution plate is changed by the relative movement of the shaft sections in order to modify the path of the air supplied from an opening.

[0007] A known air conditioning system is described in publication JP H10 6745 A. The system aims to reduce noise by minimizing high-frequency noise generated in a louvered grille installed in a supply opening, without increasing the number of parts or product costs. The proposed solution involves providing a ventilation duct at the periphery of the supply opening, installed at the top of a roof-mounted duct, and enlarging this duct to enclose a supply opening through which an airflow is directed towards the head of a rear-seat passenger. This stabilizes the wind velocity distribution of cold air flowing through the louvered grille, thereby reducing any potential high-frequency noise generated within that grille.

[0008] Document FR 2 845 318 A1 also discloses a known heat regulation device for a motor vehicle passenger compartment. Such a heat regulation device comprises ventilation, heating, and air conditioning systems and a seat or row of seats. There is an additional ventilation, heating, and air conditioning system that works in conjunction with the seat to direct hot or cold air through the seat toward a compartment area where an occupant is located.

[0009] The invention is based on the objective of providing a ventilation device for the interior of a motor vehicle, which offers a high level of comfort due to a flexible adjustment of airflows that is intuitively recognizable for occupants.

[0010] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, a ventilation device is provided for the interior of a motor vehicle, particularly in the area of ​​a second row of seats. This ventilation device comprises at least one air duct element, at least one supply device coupled to a first end of the at least one air duct element as part of the vehicle's air conditioning system, at least one air outlet element coupled to a second end of the at least one air duct element and arranged in the non-visible area of ​​the interior, at least one directional element, and at least one light element.The arrangement of the at least one directional element and the at least one air outlet element together enables the ventilation device to be continuously adjustable between at least two ventilation states in the interior. These states differ at least in that the airflow is directed directly into the interior and indirectly along a headliner designed for this purpose, relative to a seating area of ​​the vehicle. In this way, a high level of comfort can be achieved through flexible adjustment of the airflow, which is intuitively perceptible to the occupants. In particular, the air outlet can be designed in such a way that the actual ventilation function is not visible in the ceiling area. This results in a high level of comfort due to an unobstructed interior space.For example, the center console air vent can be eliminated, freeing up space for other uses. This space can be used for new functions, such as storage compartments. The invention enables ventilation concepts for fully functional climate control in the second row of seats. A comprehensive, comfort-based climate control system is also possible. This allows for the monitoring of thermal passenger comfort and automated control of all climate control systems. Since the air conditioning system is coupled to the ventilation system via the supply unit, it can be used to control or program the ventilation system as desired. Any modules present in or coupled to the vehicle's air conditioning system can thus interact with the ventilation system.For example, sensors can be installed to assess the thermal comfort of the occupants. This could take the form of a combination of humidity and temperature sensors in the seat and infrared sensors for facial skin temperature. This would enable, for instance, a new climate architecture in the rear, such as ceiling ventilation and back-panel vents with programmable ventilation styles. The interior climate control can thus be individually tailored to the thermal comfort needs of the occupants. This allows for the provision of a comfort-oriented and predictive automatic climate control system. Indirect ventilation can be achieved through airflow along the ceiling. The design of the headliner could, for example, create a Coanda effect, i.e., the airflow being drawn along the ceiling line.A flow is thus created along the ceiling line in such a way that it distributes throughout the space and avoids direct airflow to the occupants. This results in indirect, draft-free ventilation for the rear of the vehicle. For example, at least some of the presented elements are integrated into the side ceiling area to convey air along the ceiling line from the outside to the interior of the vehicle. The integration of at least one air duct element can be achieved, for example, in the rear roof area of ​​the vehicle, perhaps via the B- or C-pillar. The design of the air outlet, in the form of the air discharge element, can be such that the actual ventilation function in the ceiling area is not visible.The technical implementation of a stepless switching system can be such that, for example, only the interior or only one pane of glass is supplied with air, or both—the interior and the pane or occupants—are supplied with air. Such transitions are adjustable. The directional element is positioned, for example, in the ceiling area in such a way that the airflow pattern of the air outlet is specifically influenced. For instance, the point at which the airflow separates can be precisely controlled. Thus, different ventilation functions can be achieved with a single outlet concept. For example, switching between defog / defrost function and interior ventilation can be implemented.Alternatively, the airflow direction can be switched between the interior and the side window, or the air can be simultaneously directed towards the window and the headliner, for example to reduce the entry of lateral solar radiation.

[0011] The invention can be used, for example, in all vehicles with rear seats. This includes mid-range and luxury vehicles that offer sufficient space for the integration of air ducts or functional surfaces. The invention can also be used in buses or minibuses. Furthermore, its use in airplanes, passenger trains, and tractors is conceivable.

[0012] Further preferred embodiments of the invention result from the other features mentioned in the dependent claims.

[0013] In a further preferred embodiment of the invention, it is provided that a lighting display can be adjusted by means of the at least one light element, depending on the at least two ventilation states. In this way, a corresponding ventilation state can also be visually indicated to the occupants. The light element can, for example, be a light guide or a lighting system for the display or indication of the ventilation function.

[0014] In a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the at least one air duct element, at least one air outlet element, and at least one directional element are arranged in a roof area of ​​the interior and / or in the rear of at least one seat element. This allows for particularly flexible adjustment, resulting in a particularly high level of comfort.

[0015] In a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the at least one directional element is provided to be manually or electrically adjustable. In the case of electrical adjustability, the ventilation device is coupled to a programmable air conditioning system such that the at least two ventilation states and the lighting effects can be adjusted depending on an activated program of the air conditioning system. This allows for particularly flexible adjustment, resulting in a high level of comfort. In particular, it also enables occupants to intuitively recognize the respective ventilation state based on the lighting effects.

[0016] Furthermore, according to the invention, the at least one directional element is arranged in the non-visible roof area of ​​the interior, wherein activation of the at least one directional element causes a change in the shape of the adjacent visible roof area, or activation of the at least one directional element causes this directional element to fold out from the non-visible roof area of ​​the interior into the visible roof area, so that in both cases the direction of the air flowing from the at least one air outlet element can be adjusted from one ventilation state to another. This allows for a high level of comfort. The interior space can be used to a large extent by the occupants, as this enables a space-saving and cost-effective concept.

[0017] Furthermore, in a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the at least one directional element is arranged on the at least one air outlet element, wherein activation of the at least one directional element causes the direction of the air flowing from the at least one air outlet element to be adjustable from one ventilation state to another. Thus, a high level of comfort can be achieved due to flexible adjustment of airflows.

[0018] In a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the at least one directional element comprises a set of louvers, wherein the set of louvers includes both louvers in the visible area and louvers in the non-visible area. This allows for a high level of comfort due to flexible adjustment of the airflow. In other words, the airflow can be shaped by means of louvers arranged within the air outlet element or the diffuser, thus achieving a desired ventilation function. For example, it is possible to provide draft-free ventilation or, alternatively, a more direct airflow. The ventilation function can therefore be switched by changing the position of the louvers within the diffuser.

[0019] In a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the at least one directional element comprises at least one locking element, wherein the locking element is adjustable either by means of a sliding mechanism and a gripping element provided for this purpose, which is arranged on the locking element, or by means of a folding mechanism. Thus, a high level of comfort can be achieved due to flexible adjustment of airflows.

[0020] In a further preferred embodiment of the invention, a portion of the directional element, which is located in the visible area of ​​the interior, can simultaneously be shaped as a decorative element. In this way, not only can a high level of comfort be achieved due to flexible adjustment of airflows, but at the same time, the interior space can be used very efficiently, as this enables a space-saving and cost-effective concept.

[0021] Furthermore, in another preferred embodiment of the invention, the supply device is coupled to the air conditioning system via a front / center console air conditioning unit or via a rear air conditioning unit. In this way, not only can a high level of comfort be achieved due to flexible adjustment of airflows, but at the same time, the interior space can be used very efficiently, as this enables a space-saving and cost-effective concept.

[0022] Finally, in a further preferred embodiment of the invention, a motor vehicle is provided with a ventilation device according to claims 1-9. In such a motor vehicle, a high level of comfort can be achieved due to the flexible adjustment of airflows, which is intuitively perceptible to the occupants.

[0023] Unless otherwise stated in individual cases, the various embodiments of the invention mentioned in this application can be advantageously combined with one another.

[0024] The invention is explained below using exemplary embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings. These show: Fig. 1 a ventilation device in an installed state; Fig. 2 a schematic sectional view of a ventilation device; Fig. 3 an air outlet element with an arranged directional element in a seat element; Fig. 4 a ventilation device in the installed state; Fig. 5a a sectional view of an air outlet element with an arranged directional element; Fig. 5b a guide element in an installed state; Fig. 6a a sectional view of a straightening element in an installed state; Fig. 6b a guide element in an installed state; Fig. 6c a straightening element in an installed state; Fig. 7a a sectional view of a straightening element in an installed state; Fig. 7b a guide element in an installed state; Fig. 8 A schematic top view of a ventilation device.

[0025] Fig. Figure 1 shows a ventilation device 10 in an installed state in the interior of a motor vehicle. In the settings shown, flow arrows 12 indicate the path of air flowing out of the ventilation device 10. In this embodiment, the Fig. The individual components of the ventilation device 10 are arranged both in a roof area 14 of the interior and on the respective backs of seating elements 16 in the non-visible area. The outflowing air is in a ventilation state that provides for an indirect direction of outflow. The flow arrows 12 are shown only as examples and indicate only one of several possible directions or at least partial paths of the outflowing air. In particular, the flow arrows 12 on the seating elements can also point at least partially towards the roof area 14, so that outflowing air from the seating elements could also spread along the roof area 14.Such an airflow would therefore spread from the seating elements to the roof area 14 and be deflected there in various directions, resulting in an indirect airflow. For example, an airflow can also occur along the roof area 14. The roof area 14 includes all areas located above the interior of a motor vehicle. In particular, this is the area between two opposing side window panes. Depending on the preferred direction of an installed ventilation device 10 and in conjunction with the individual components mentioned above, the roof area 14 can be designed accordingly for these purposes, for example, to also define an indirect direction of the outflowing air. Fig. Figure 2 shows a schematic sectional view of a ventilation device 10. This view includes an air duct element 18, which in this example comprises two air ducts 20a and 20b. The following are shown in the Fig. Figure 2 shows only the exemplary positions of these air ducts 20a and 20b. Furthermore, an air outlet point 22 can be seen. The air outlet point 22 is part of an air outlet element 24, which is located in this Fig. Figure 2 is shown only as an example. Such an air outlet element 24 could also be called a blade outlet. It is conceivable that the air outlet element 24 has a different function than the one shown in Figure 2. Fig. The form shown in Figure 2 is also shown. The arrangement of the air channels 20a, 20b and the air outlet element 24 are also shown here only as examples. A guide element 25 is also visible in this embodiment. Such a guide element 25 can, as shown, be at least partially integrated into the structure of the air outlet element 24 in such a way that components, for example, also connect to this or other components in terms of material. This is conceivable up to one degree of freedom, so that at least one component of the guide element 25 remains separately adjustable. This can be seen in Fig. 2. In particular, how the air outlet element 24 and the guide element 25 interact to direct an airflow moving from a non-visible area of ​​the ventilation device 10 towards a visible area at the air outlet point 22. Thus, different ventilation states can be achieved depending on the position of the guide element 25. Any other combination regarding the spatial arrangement of these components of the ventilation device 10 is conceivable at this point, as long as it is ensured that at least two ventilation states, namely indirect and direct airflow, are possible. The number of air channels in the air channel element 18 is not particularly limited.It would also be conceivable that the air duct element 18 is formed from only one air duct 20, which would then supply all the intended air outlet points 22 of a ventilation device 10 with air. The air duct 20a is provided in the visible area of ​​the lateral roof section 14. An exterior area 27 of the air outlet element 24 could be designed in such a way that this exterior area 27 integrates seamlessly into the appearance of the roof section 14 or is visually indistinguishable from it. The air duct 20b is located in the . Fig. 2 arranged outside the field of vision and represented only by means of its conceivable positioning. For example, such an air duct 20b could also be part of another component of the vehicle body. Such an air duct 20b could also be a separate component in the form of a pipe, a tubular object, or some other geometric shape designed to direct air to a designated air outlet point 22. A lighting effect, not shown, could, for example, be provided by means of light elements in the form of light guides. The embodiment of Fig. 2 is preferably intended for use in the roof area 14. A direct objective is to enable indirect ventilation by means of airflow along a ceiling line in a selected ventilation state of the ventilation device 10.

[0026] In Fig. Figure 3 shows an air outlet element 24 with an arranged directional element 25 in a seat element 16. The directional element 25 is shown here in the form of louvers, which can be movably mounted. Due to their positioning and adjustment, the louvers can ensure a uniform air distribution along the ceiling line. For example, electrical directional control can be achieved using an electric device in the form of an electric motor to enable different ventilation styles. The air outlet element 24 is coupled to an air duct 20, which in turn is part of an air duct element 18. Air can be supplied to the air duct 20, relative to the plane of the image, either from the left by a supply device (not shown) in the form of a rear air conditioning unit, or from the right by a supply device (not shown) in the form of a front / center console air conditioning unit.Furthermore, in . Fig. Figure 3 shows a baffle 28, which is arranged as a separating element between the air outlet element 24 with the arranged directional element 25 and a visible area of ​​the seat element 16. In other words, this baffle 28 limits the air outlet element 24 with the arranged directional element 25 in such a way that an observer perceives the ventilation device 10 only by virtue of its effect in the form of supplied air and not visually as a separate component that stands out directly from the other components of the seat element 16. The baffle 28 can also include a light element 30 in the form of a light guide, so that a lighting effect corresponding to the selected ventilation function is possible. By means of the Fig. In the exemplary embodiment shown in section 3, air could thus be coupled into a seating structure, accompanied by a lighting effect if a user has additionally selected this function. Integration into a back panel is therefore possible. It is also conceivable that a lighting effect could be deliberately switched on and off or functionally linked to a selected air conditioning program.

[0027] Fig. Figure 4 shows a ventilation device 10 in its installed state. A window pane 32 in the rear of a motor vehicle and a headrest area 34 of a seat structure in the rear of this motor vehicle are visible. The ventilation device 10 comprises, for example, two air outlet elements 24, each with a guide element 25 (not shown in detail). In this example, the air outlet elements 24 with their respective guide elements 25 (not shown in detail) are arranged in the visible area such that they stand out clearly from the rest of the roof area 14. The flow arrows 12 indicate both a possible direct and an indirect ventilation state.It is conceivable that in one or both of the at least two adjustable ventilation states, at least a portion of the window pane 32 is exposed to air in such a way that a desired effect, such as an unobstructed view to the outside, is achieved. Thus, it is also possible, for example, to implement indirect ventilation from the rear and from roof beams not shown.

[0028] The Fig. Figure 5a shows a sectional view of an air outlet element 24 with an arranged guide element 25, as components of a ventilation device 10. The guide element 25 is designed in the form of louvers. The louvers are divided into louvers 36a in the visible area and louvers 36b in the non-visible area. Two louvers 36a are visible in the visible area and two louvers 36b are also visible in the non-visible area. A total of four louvers are thus provided. The number of louvers can differ in a variant not shown and can have any advantageous number of louvers. The shape of the louvers in this figure is also only exemplary, and any other shape of louvers is conceivable as long as a desired direction of airflow can be set. The invention is not limited to the embodiment shown.The louvers 36b are thus arranged in the background of the air outlet element 24. In the figure shown, one of these louvers 36b is adjusted such that it disappears, at least partially or completely, into a wall of the air outlet element 24, which is at least partially exposed to the airflow, and together with the wall of the air outlet element 24, has a desired effect on the outflowing air. The shape of the wall of the air outlet element 24 can accordingly be adapted to a shape of the louvers, so that the interaction ultimately provides at least partial effect on the outflowing air. In other words, at least one louver 36b can be adjusted such that it forms an extension of an outer line of the wall or, together with the wall in which it is attached, has a joint effect on the outflowing air.Such a louver 36b can, for example, be rotatably attached to the wall by means of a hinge, screw, or other fastening device. The wall, or more generally the air outlet element 24, can have a recess in which the louver 36b, when folded, can at least partially fit snugly. The opposite louver 36b is installed in a similar manner and is shown in the figure. In a variant not shown, it is conceivable that only one of these at least two louvers 36b interacts with the wall, while the other louver 36b merely rests against an adjacent area of ​​the wall.These and other arrangements of the various louvers, not shown, are to be seen before the desired interaction of the overall concept, whereby a change to one louver has an effect on the resulting airflow pattern, so that this state can be further modified by changing another louver. The louvers 36a can, at least partially, assume the function of a decorative element in the visible area. In other words, the design of the guide element 25 can be such that it allows for visual integration into the desired overall appearance of the vehicle's interior. The louvers 36a and 36b are in the . Fig. 5a is adjusted to achieve the desired flow path of the flow arrow 12 shown. The louvers 36a and 36b can, for example, be connected to the air outlet element 24 by means of hinges. Any other type of connection is also conceivable. It is conceivable that the louvers 36a and 36b can assume a wide variety of positions to achieve the desired flow path of the flow arrow 12. The louvers 36a and 36b can be adjustable independently of each other. In another variant, it is also conceivable that the louvers 36a and 36b can be at least partially coupled and movable together. In other words, a deflection of any louver would then cause a movement of one or more other louvers. It is also conceivable that all the aforementioned louvers can be aligned in the desired manner with just one operation.In particular, the interaction of each pair of lamellae and their resulting arrangement relative to each other can produce a desired flow path of the flow arrow 12. It is also conceivable that the lamellae 36a and 36b are each individually adjustable and that their interaction is centrally controlled, ultimately resulting in an arrangement that produces a desired flow path of the flow arrow 12.

[0029] The Fig. Figure 5b shows, as components of a ventilation device 10, the air outlet element 24 with an arranged directional element 25. Fig. Figure 5a shows the view from the perspective of an observer seated inside a motor vehicle in which these ventilation device components are arranged. The louvers 36a are visible in the visible area and at least partially function as decorative elements. A decorative element preferably serves to visually separate the ventilation device 10 from the visible interior of the motor vehicle. A portion of the air outlet element 24 is also visible, which at least in this portion also functions as a decorative element. However, other arrangements of the air outlet element 24 with the arranged guide element 25 are conceivable, not shown. For example, the louvers 36a could also completely fulfill the function of the decorative element.

[0030] In Fig. Figure 6a shows another example of a directional element 25 in an installed state. This directional element 25 is arranged in an air outlet element 24. Both components are part of a ventilation device 10. The directional element 25 shown is arranged on the air outlet element 24 by means of a sliding mechanism 40, so that different ventilation states can be set either manually or electrically. In the figure, the sliding mechanism 40 is arranged centrally and has a straight path from (relative to the plane of the image) bottom right to top left. In a variant not shown, this sliding mechanism 40 could also have an arc-shaped path or any other shape. In the example shown, the Fig. 6a is the setting such that a desired flow path of a flow arrow 12 is established. The guiding element 25 comprises a locking element 26, which can have the essentially diamond-shaped geometry shown. In addition, the sliding mechanism 40 is arranged approximately centrally on the locking element 26 in the figure. Here, too, further variations not shown are conceivable. However, any other geometric shapes that allow for a direct or indirect airflow are also conceivable. It should be noted, however, that the geometric shape is chosen such that in a stop position, as shown in the embodiment, the locking element 26 bears at least substantially against a corresponding wall of the air outlet element 24, so that air passage is prevented or at least largely avoided at this point.In other words, at this point, the shape of the locking element 26 and the shape of the wall of the air outlet element 24, which is reached by the locking element 26 in a given stop position, must be at least partially aligned so that essentially no air can pass through. This is shown in the figure by the fact that a flat side of the rhomboid body of the locking element 26 lies flat against the wall of the air outlet element 24, so that essentially no air can escape and the flow direction arrow 12 can be directed as shown in the desired direction. It is particularly evident how the air outlet element 24 and the guide element 25 together cause a desired airflow pattern to be established from within the ventilation device 10 into an interior area of ​​a motor vehicle (not shown).For example, the geometries of the two aforementioned components are advantageously coordinated. Furthermore, a gripping element 42, which can also simply be referred to as a handle, is visible on the directional element 25. This gripping element 42 can be grasped manually by a user, for example, to move the directional element 25 into a desired position, thus establishing a defined ventilation state. This ventilation state can then, for example, exhibit a direct or indirect airflow. It is also conceivable that the directional element 25 can be actuated by means of an electrical device, such as an electric motor, whereby operation is possible, for example, via the climate control system of a motor vehicle in which the ventilation device 10 is installed.

[0031] The Fig. Figure 6b shows, as components of a ventilation device 10, the air outlet element 24 with an arranged directional element 25. Fig. 6a in a viewpoint from an observer seated inside a motor vehicle in which these components of the ventilation device are arranged. A roof area 14 and part of a window pane 32 are visible. The guide element 25 is in the Fig. Figure 6b is shown without the handle 42 and is in an upper position, so that a flow arrow 12 points towards the window pane 32. A direct ventilation condition is thus set towards the pane.

[0032] The Fig. Figure 6c shows, as components of a ventilation device 10, the air outlet element 24 with an arranged directional element 25. Fig. 6a in a viewpoint from the perspective of an observer seated inside a motor vehicle in which these components of the ventilation device 10 are arranged. A roof area 14 and part of a window pane 32 are visible. The guide element 25 is in the Fig. Figure 6c is shown without handle 42 and is in a lower position, so that a flow arrow 12 points towards the roof area 14. An indirect ventilation state is thus established.

[0033] In Fig. Figure 7a shows another example of a directional element 25 in an installed state. This directional element 25 is arranged in an air outlet element 24. Both components are parts of a ventilation device 10. The directional element 25 shown is attached to the air outlet element 24 by means of a hinge mechanism 44, so that different ventilation states can be set either manually or electrically. In the example shown, the Fig. 7a The setting is such that a desired flow path of a flow arrow 12 is established. The guiding element 25 comprises a locking element 26, which in the figure can essentially have the shape of a rhombus or a rhombic body or shape shown. This rhombic shape is modified in the depicted manner, particularly in the visible area, by means of a curved profile of an outwardly visible front. In other words, the rhombic locking element 26 is bounded outwards in the visible area by a surface (sketched in the figure by a line) that protrudes into the interior of a motor vehicle (not shown). This convex profile can be adapted to the immediate surroundings of the interior of the motor vehicle in such a way that a smooth transition from the immediate surroundings to the locking element 26 is achieved.In the figure shown, this is indicated (relative to the image plane) in the upper left area by the arc-shaped line, which essentially represents an extension of an outer line from the roof section 14 shown in the upper left. In other words, the transom element 26 is shaped in such a way in the visible area that a substantially flat transition is created from the roof section 14 to an outer surface of the transom element 26. However, any other geometric shape of the transom element 26 is also conceivable, which allows for direct or indirect airflow. The aforementioned features can also be achieved or taken into account with a different shape or a slightly modified shape. In particular, the interplay between the contour of the roof section 14 and an outer surface of the transom element 26 can be considered.It is particularly evident how the air outlet element 24 and the guide element 25 together ensure that a desired airflow pattern is established from within the ventilation device 10 into an interior area of ​​a motor vehicle (not shown). For this purpose, the geometries of the two aforementioned components are advantageously coordinated. In this example, the folding mechanism 44 comprises both a hinge 46, which is arranged centrally on the guide element 25, and an internal support element 48, which is arranged on a rail element 50 in the air outlet element 24. The figure also shows only one possible further position for the folding mechanism 44. Any intermediate position can be assumed between the currently depicted position and the further position shown.The support element 48 can then also assume a different position, which is not shown. The interaction between the folding mechanism 44 and the support element 48 can assume any arrangement permitted by the mechanical properties of the installed arrangement, so that a desired flow path 12 is achieved. Here, too, a coupling (not shown) is conceivable. Any type of coupling element, or even just a single coupling element, is possible. Furthermore, an individually controllable arrangement with independent movement modes is conceivable, in which case the specific arrangement is centrally controlled, so that a desired flow path 12 is achieved or can be achieved.Depending on the intensity of the applied flow and in particular through the interaction of the folding mechanism 44 and the mounting element 48, a wide variety of ventilation concepts can be continuously adjusted, so that a particularly flexible and easy-to-use arrangement can be provided.

[0034] The Fig. Figure 7b shows, as components of a ventilation device 10, the air outlet element 24 with an arranged directional element 25. Fig. 7a in a viewpoint from an observer seated inside a motor vehicle in which these components of the ventilation device 10 are arranged. A roof area 14 and part of a window pane 32 are visible. The guide element 25 is in the Fig. Figure 7b is shown without handle 42 and is in a lower position, so that a flow arrow 12 points towards the roof area 14. An indirect ventilation state is thus established.

[0035] The Fig. Figure 8 shows a schematic top view of a ventilation device 10. Two schematically depicted air outlet elements 24 are visible, from which air flows, the flow path being represented in this embodiment by dashed flow arrows 12. These air outlet elements 24 can also be referred to as static outlets. A roof area 14 is also shown schematically. This roof area 14 curves above two schematically depicted seating elements 16, relative to the plane of the image. Again relative to the plane of the image, a guide element 25 is schematically shown on the left side above the seating element 16, which is located in this Fig.Figure 8 is represented as a downward-pointing arrow. This guide element 25 is in an extended position, causing the section of the roof area 14 directly below it to curve downwards. In other words, the positioning of the guide element 25, which in this case can also be referred to as an actuator, results in a change in the shape of the headliner above the seat element 16 located on the left side, thus enabling targeted control of the airflow by means of the guide element 25 or the actuator. In an alternative scenario not shown, it is also conceivable that the guide element 25 can be folded out from the roof area 14 to create a desired ventilation condition. In both cases, a direct ventilation condition results, which can also be described as direct airflow.By positioning one or more of these directional elements 25 behind the air outlet surface, direct ventilation can be achieved. On the opposite side, to the right of the image plane, no directional element 25 is shown, as it is in an inactive state. This results in an indirect airflow pattern for the air exiting the air outlet element 24, thus providing indirect ventilation to the interior of the vehicle, which can also be referred to as the cabin. This indirect ventilation causes the outgoing air to spread along the headliner, as the headliner is now smooth and free of airflow obstructions. In this example, either manual adjustment or electric actuation, such as via the climate control system, can be provided.Since the air outlet elements 24 are opposite each other, the ventilation device 10 can also be directed in a way that is characterized by reciprocal or alternating airflow. In other words, a reciprocal, alternating airflow can be established or achieved on the left and right sides of the vehicle, reminiscent of air currents in a natural environment. The air outlet elements 24 on the left and right sides can, for example, be directed towards each other, so that the two competing airflows can cause turbulence of the air, so-called air vortices, in the center of the vehicle. This turbulence can be perceived as pleasant by a passenger or, more generally, by an occupant, since its direction is not easily discernible and its speed is not constant. Reference symbol list 10 Ventilation device 12 flow arrows 14 Roof area 16 seating elements 18 air duct element 20 air duct 20a Air duct 20b Air duct 22 Air outlet point 24 Air outlet element 25 Directional element 26 bar element 27 Outdoor area 28 aperture 30 light elements 32 window pane 34 Headrest area 36a Slats in the visible area 36b Slats in the non-visible area 40 sliding mechanism 42 Handle element 44 Folding mechanism 46 hinge 48 Mounting element 50 rail elements

Claims

[1] Ventilation device (10) for an interior area of ​​a motor vehicle, in particular in an area of ​​a second row of seats, comprising - at least one air duct element (18), - at least one supply device coupled to a first end of the at least one air duct element (18) as part of an air conditioning system of the motor vehicle, - at least one air outlet element (24) which is coupled to a second end of the at least one air duct element (18) and is arranged in the non-visible area of ​​the interior, - at least one directional element (25), wherein the arrangements of the at least one directional element (25) and the at least one air outlet element (24) together ensure that the ventilation device (10) is continuously adjustable between at least two ventilation states in the interior, which differ at least in each case by a direction of outflowing air directed directly into the interior and an indirect direction along a headliner designed for this purpose with respect to a seating area of ​​the motor vehicle, and - at least one light element (30), characterized by, that the at least one directional element (25) is arranged in the non-visible roof area (14) of the interior, wherein activation of the at least one directional element (25) causes a change in shape of the adjacent visible roof area (14) or activation of the at least one directional element (25) causes this directional element (25) to fold out from the non-visible roof area (14) of the interior into the visible roof area (14), so that in both cases a direction of outflowing air from the at least one air outlet element (24) can be adjusted from one ventilation state to another ventilation state. [2] Ventilation device (10) according to claim 1, characterized by , that depending on the at least two ventilation states, a lighting design can be set using the at least one light element (30). [3] Ventilation device (10) according to claim 1 or claim 2, characterized by, that the at least one air duct element (18) and at least one air outlet element (24) and at least one directional element (25) are arranged in a roof area (14) of the interior area and / or in a rear side of at least one seat element (16). [4] Ventilation device (10) according to one of claims 2 or 3, characterized by , that the at least one directional element (25) is manually or electrically adjustable, wherein in the case of electrical adjustability the ventilation device (10) is coupled to a programmable air conditioning system in such a way that the at least two ventilation states and the lighting effects can be adjusted depending on an activated program of the air conditioning system. [5] Ventilation device (10) according to any one of the preceding claims 1-4, characterized by, that the at least one directional element (25) is arranged on the at least one air outlet element (24), wherein activation of the at least one directional element (25) causes the direction of outflowing air from the at least one air outlet element (24) to be adjustable from one ventilation state to another ventilation state. [6] Ventilation device (10) according to claim 5, characterized by , that the at least one guiding element (25) comprises a set of louvers, wherein the set of louvers includes both louvers (36a) in the visible area and louvers (36b) in the non-visible area. [7] Ventilation device (10) according to claim 6, characterized by, that the at least one aligning element (25) comprises at least one locking element (26), wherein the locking element (26) is adjustable either by means of a sliding mechanism (40) and a gripping element (42) provided for this purpose, which is arranged on the locking element (26), or is adjustable by means of a folding mechanism (44). [8] Ventilation device (10) according to one of the preceding claims 6 or 7, characterized by , that an area of ​​the directional element (25), which is located in the visible area of ​​the interior, can simultaneously be shaped as a decorative element. [9] Ventilation device (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the supply device is coupled to the air conditioning system via a front / center console air conditioning unit or via a rear air conditioning unit. [10] Motor vehicle with a ventilation device (10) according to one of claims 1-9.

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