THERMAL CONTROL SYSTEM FOR VARIABLE POSITION SEATING ARRANGEMENT

Abstract

A vehicle system comprises a floor with a first side and a second side opposite the first. The floor includes a multitude of openings. A seat is movably mounted on the floor. The seat comprises a frame with a support element. An anchoring system is attached to the support element. The anchoring system includes a selectively extendable anchor that secures the seat through one of the multiple openings in the floor. A heat control system is arranged within the seat. The heat control system includes a channel with an inlet and an outlet. The inlet can be selectively connected to a vehicle-based fluid supply system.

Description

INTRODUCTION

[0001] The present disclosure relates to the field of heat control systems for vehicle seats and in particular a heat control system for a seat that is assigned to a seat arrangement with variable position.

[0002] The vehicles include a number of seats for passengers, including a driver. In many cases, the seats are arranged in a first row and a second row behind the first. In some cases, a third row is located behind the second row. The seats are generally adjustable from front to back to accommodate passengers of different sizes. This means that the seats are attached to first and second support rails and can move forward and backward relative to them. While the seats can be adjusted and / or removed from the vehicle, their physical position within the vehicle is fixed.

[0003] The seat rails are fixed to the floor and cannot be easily relocated. Therefore, the seating arrangement in the vehicle is essentially unchangeable without extensive structural modifications performed by specialists in a dedicated repair or modification workshop. In addition to repositioning the seat rails, the ducts for seat-based climate control systems, if present, must also be relocated. Relocating seat rails and ducts is a costly and labor-intensive undertaking that is not feasible for all vehicle owners. Accordingly, it is desirable to provide a system that reduces the cost and complexity of rearranging seats while maintaining the fluid connections for seat-based climate control systems. SUMMARY

[0004] A vehicle system according to a non-restrictive example comprises a floor with a first side and a second side opposite the first. The floor includes a plurality of openings. A seat is movably mounted on the floor. The seat comprises a frame with a support element. An anchoring system is attached to the support element. The anchoring system includes a selectively extendable anchor that secures the seat to the floor through one of the plurality of openings. A heat control system is arranged in the seat. The heat control system includes a channel with an inlet and an outlet. The inlet is selectively connectable to a vehicle-based fluid supply system.

[0005] In addition to one or more of the features described in this document, a supply of processed fluid flows over the second side of the bottom, with the supply of processed fluid entering the inlet through selected openings of the multitude of openings.

[0006] In addition to one or more of the features described in this document, the seat comprises a backrest and a seat base; the channel comprises a first channel with a first inlet arranged on the support element and a first outlet arranged in the backrest, and a second channel with a second inlet arranged on the support element and a second outlet arranged in the seat base.

[0007] In addition to one or more of the features described in this document, a valve element is arranged in each of the plurality of openings, wherein the valve element is selectively opened when connected to the inlet.

[0008] In addition to one or more of the features described in this document, the valve element includes a flexible nozzle section comprising a first section and a second section, wherein the flexible nozzle section is selectively extended through the inlet.

[0009] In addition to one or more of the features described in this document, a distributor for processed fluid connected to the inlet, wherein the distributor for processed fluid comprises a plurality of inlet elements that selectively pass through selected openings of the plurality of openings.

[0010] In addition to one or more of the features described in this document, the anchor system includes a solenoid that encompasses the selectively extendable anchor, wherein the solenoid is excited to extend the selectively extendable anchor through one of the plurality of openings.

[0011] In addition to one or more of the features described in this document, the selectively extendable anchor includes a selectively extendable locking section that selectively prevents the selectively extendable anchor from being pulled out of one of the plurality of openings.

[0012] In addition to one or more of the features described in this document, the inlet projects to the rear of the seat, and the inlet can be selectively connected to a wall-mounted connection for the supply of processed fluid.

[0013] In addition to one or more of the features described in this document, a multitude of wheels connected to the frame.

[0014] A vehicle according to a non-restrictive example comprises a body that defines a passenger compartment with a floor having a first side and a second side opposite the first side, and a plurality of openings formed in the floor. A seat is movably mounted on the first side of the floor. The seat comprises a frame with a support element. An anchoring system is attached to the support element. The anchoring system includes a selectively extendable anchor that secures the seat through one of the plurality of openings in the floor. A heat control system is arranged in the seat. The heat control system comprises a channel with an inlet and an outlet. The inlet is selectively connectable to a vehicle-based fluid supply system.

[0015] In addition to one or more of the features described in this document, a supply of processed fluid flows over the second side of the bottom, with the supply of processed fluid entering the inlet through selected openings of the multitude of openings.

[0016] In addition to one or more of the features described in this document, the seat comprises a backrest and a seat base, wherein the channel includes a first channel with a first inlet arranged on the support element and a first outlet arranged in the backrest, and a second channel with a second inlet arranged on the support element and a second outlet arranged in the seat base.

[0017] In addition to one or more of the features described in this document, a valve element is arranged in each of the multiple openings. The valve element opens selectively when it is connected to the inlet.

[0018] In addition to one or more of the features described in this document, the valve element includes a flexible nozzle section comprising a first section and a second section, wherein the flexible nozzle section is selectively extended through the inlet.

[0019] In addition to one or more of the features described in this document, a distributor for processed fluid is connected to the inlet, wherein the distributor for processed fluid comprises a plurality of inlet elements that selectively pass through selected openings of the plurality of openings.

[0020] In addition to one or more of the features described in this document, the anchor system includes a solenoid that encompasses the selectively extendable anchor, wherein the solenoid is excited to extend the selectively extendable anchor through one of the plurality of openings.

[0021] In addition to one or more of the features described in this document, the selectively extendable anchor includes a selectively extendable locking section that selectively prevents the selectively extendable anchor from being pulled out of one of the plurality of openings.

[0022] In addition to one or more of the features described in this document, the passenger compartment includes a side wall with a connection for the supply of processed fluid, the inlet projecting rearward from the seat and being selectively connectable to the connection for the supply of processed fluid.

[0023] In addition to one or more of the features described in this document, a multitude of wheels connected to the frame.

[0024] The aforementioned features and advantages, as well as further features and advantages of the disclosure, are readily apparent from the following detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0025] Further features, advantages and details are included only as examples in the following detailed description, which refers to the drawings in which: Fig. 1 a left-hand perspective view of a vehicle that includes variable-position seats having a heat control system, according to a non-restrictive example; Fig. 2 a perspective view of a variable-position seat that has a heat control system, according to a non-restrictive example; Fig. 3 a side cross-sectional view of the seat with variable position from Fig. 2 is, which is connected to floor-mounted connections for the supply of treated fluid, according to a non-restrictive example; Fig. 4 a cross-sectional view of a frame and support element of the seat with variable position, which has a heat regulation system, according to a further non-restrictive example; Fig. 5 a perspective view of a valve element that can be inserted into one of the ports for the supply of treated fluid, in a closed configuration, according to a non-restrictive example; Fig. 6 a perspective view of the valve element from Fig. 5 in an open configuration according to a non-restrictive example; Fig. 7. A top view of the vehicle, which includes connections arranged along the passenger compartment walls for the supply of treated fluid, according to a further non-restrictive example; and Fig. Figure 8 shows a perspective side view of a variable-position seat that incorporates a heat control system connected to the fluid supply ports. Fig. 7 is connectable, according to a non-restrictive example. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0026] The following description is merely exemplary and is not intended to limit the present disclosure, its application, or its use. It is understood that in the drawings, corresponding reference numerals denote identical or corresponding parts and features. As used herein, the term "module" refers to a processing circuit that may include an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), an electronic circuit, a processor (common, dedicated, or group), memory executing one or more software or firmware programs, a combinational logic circuit, and / or other suitable components that provide the described function.

[0027] A vehicle according to a non-restrictive example is in Fig. 1 generally denoted by 10. The vehicle 10 comprises a body 12, which is mounted on a plurality of wheels 16. The body 12 partially defines a passenger compartment 20 with a floor 22 comprising a first surface 24 and a second surface 26, Fig. 2, that is, an opposite side of the first surface 24. A multitude of openings, one of which is designated 28, extends through the floor 22. The passenger compartment 20 also includes a multitude of walls, one of which is designated 30.

[0028] In a non-restrictive example, the floor 22 supports a number of seats, one of which is designated 34, forming a variable-position seating arrangement. That is, the seats 34 can be easily moved within the passenger compartment 20 and positioned anywhere on the floor 22 where openings 28 are located. As explained in more detail below, the openings 28 define anchor points for the seat 34. The openings 28 can also define connections for the supply of treated fluid, directing treated fluid to each seat 34, as also explained in this document.

[0029] Referring to Fig. 2 and Fig. The seat 34 comprises a backrest 38 and a seat base 40 with a frame 42. The frame 42 includes a support element 44, which not only provides a base for a plurality of wheels 46 but also supports an anchoring system 50 and a heat control system 60. As described in more detail in this document, the anchoring system 50 is selectively actuated to release the seat 34 from the floor 22 and / or secure it to it. In a non-limiting example, the anchoring system 50 comprises a plurality of solenoids, one of which is designated 64. Each solenoid 64 comprises a selectively extendable anchor 68 with a selectively extendable locking section 70. Each solenoid 64 is coupled to a control device 74, which extends and / or retracts the selectively extendable anchor 68 and engages and / or releases the selectively extendable locking section 70.

[0030] In a non-restrictive example, the control device 74 signals each solenoid to release its respective selectively extendable locking section 70 when the seat 34 is to be repositioned. After signaling, each selectively extendable locking section 70 rotates to align with the corresponding selectively extendable anchor 68. At this point, the control device 74 signals each solenoid 64 to retract its respective selectively extendable anchor 68 from the floor 22. The seat 34 can then be moved into a desired position on the first surface 24 of the floor 22. Once the desired position is reached, the control device 74 can signal each solenoid 64 to extend its respective selectively extendable anchor 68 through the openings 28 in the floor 22 and to rotate its respective selectively extendable locking section 70 to secure the seat 34 in the passenger compartment 20.

[0031] In addition to securing the seat 34 to the floor 22, extending and / or retracting the selectively extendable anchors 68 also establishes a fluid connection for the heat control system 60. In a non-restrictive example, the seat 34 comprises a first channel 78 extending from the support element 44 into the backrest 38, and a second channel 80 extending from the support element 44 into the seat base 40. The first channel 78 includes a first inlet 82 and a first outlet 84. The second channel 80 includes a second inlet 88 and a second outlet 90. The number and arrangement of the channels, as well as the number and location of the outlets, can vary.

[0032] In a non-restrictive example, a first extendable nozzle 94 is connected to the first inlet 82, and a second extendable nozzle 96 is connected to the second inlet 88. The first extendable nozzle 94 is also connected via a first bridge 98 to one of the selectively extendable armatures 68, and the second extendable nozzle 96 is connected via a second bridge 100 to another selectively extendable armature 68. In this arrangement, activation of the solenoids 64 not only extends and retracts the selectively extendable armatures 68, but also extends the extendable nozzles 94 and 96 to create a fluid connection for the heat control system 60. That is, when the selectively extendable armatures 68 are extended, the first extendable nozzle 94 and the second extendable nozzle 96 enter the openings 28.Processed fluid (F) flowing under the second surface 26 of the floor 22 can enter the first extendable nozzle 94 and the second extendable nozzle 96 and reach the first channel 78 and the second channel 80.

[0033] When describing a distributor 104 for treated fluid according to another non-restrictive example, reference is made to Fig. 4. Reference is made to the first channel 78 and the second channel 80, which are connected to the distributor 104 for treated fluid. In this arrangement, instead of a single nozzle assigned to each channel, the distributor 104 for treated fluid comprises a plurality of extendable inlet elements 106, which can be inserted as a group into and / or withdrawn from corresponding openings 28 in the base 22. The number and arrangement of the inlet elements 106 can vary. That is to say, the distributor 104 for treated fluid is connected to one or more of the extendable anchors 68 in a manner similar to that discussed here. When the solenoid(s) 64 are activated to extend the anchor(s) 68, the extendable inlet elements 106 are inserted into the openings 28 to establish a fluid connection.

[0034] To prevent uncontrolled leakage of the treated fluid through the base 22, each opening 28 is provided with a valve element 114, as shown in a non-restrictive example. Fig. 5 and Fig. Figure 6 shows the valve element 114 comprising a base 118 installed in the opening 28 and a flexible nozzle section 122 that opens selectively to allow treated fluid to flow through the base 22. The treated fluid can be directed directly into a channel or into the treated fluid distributor 104. The flexible nozzle section 122 comprises a first section 124 and a second section 126, which are connected to the base 118 via a first flexible hinge 128 and a second flexible hinge 130. The first section 124 and the second section 126 together form a barrier for the treated fluid. Fig. 5, and can spread out, Fig. 6, when an inlet element 106 is passed through the opening 28 through which processed fluid flows.

[0035] When describing a feed system 140 for treated fluid according to another non-restrictive example, reference is made to Fig. 7 and Fig.Reference is made to Figure 8. The supply system 140 for treated fluid comprises a central channel 147 and a plurality of secondary channels 150. The central channel 147 and the secondary channels 150 run below the first surface 24 of the floor 22. The central channel 147 comprises an inlet 154 and a termination 158. Each of the plurality of secondary channels 150 comprises a first end section 160, which is fluidically connected to the central channel 147, and a termination section 162. The termination 158 and each termination section 162 comprise a connection 165 for the supply of treated fluid. Each connection 165 for the supply of treated fluid comprises a valve element or a pivoting flap 167 and is provided in the wall 30.

[0036] In a non-restrictive example, the seat 34 includes a nozzle 170 attached to the support element 44 and extending rearward. With this arrangement, the seat 34 can be moved on the floor 22 to a desired position along the wall 30. In the desired position, the seat 34 can be pushed against the wall 30, so that the nozzle 170 enters the port 165 for the supply of treated fluid and opens the valve element 167. The seat 34 is thus fluidically connected to the supply system 140 for treated fluid. At this point, the anchoring system 50 can be activated to lock the seat 34 to the floor 22.

[0037] It should be noted that the non-restrictive examples presented here describe a vehicle seat with a variable position, e.g., a seat that can be positioned almost anywhere on the vehicle floor. In the chosen position, the seat can be anchored to the floor and connected to a supply system for treated fluid. This connection to the fluid supply system can be made simultaneously with or prior to anchoring the seat to the floor. The seat can then be released and moved to the desired position within the passenger compartment without the need for special tools, trained technicians, or similar personnel.

[0038] The terms "a" and "an" do not imply a limitation of quantity, but rather denote the presence of at least one of the elements mentioned. The term "or" means "and / or" unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. When the entire description refers to "an aspect," this means that a particular element (e.g., a feature, a structure, a step, or a property) described in connection with that aspect is contained in at least one of the aspects described in this document and may or may not be present in other aspects. It is understood that the described elements in the various aspects can be combined in any suitable way.

[0039] When an element such as a layer, film, area, or substrate is described as lying "on" another element, it may lie directly on top of the other element, or there may be elements in between. Conversely, when an element is described as lying "directly on" another element, there are no elements in between.

[0040] Unless otherwise stated in this document, all testing standards are the latest standard in force on the filing date of this application, or, if priority is claimed, on the filing date of the application with the earliest priority in which the testing standard appears.

[0041] Unless otherwise defined, the technical and scientific terms used in this document have the same meanings as generally understood by a person skilled in the field to which this disclosure relates.

[0042] Although the above disclosure has been described with reference to exemplary embodiments, the person skilled in the art will understand that various modifications can be made and equivalent elements substituted without altering its scope. Furthermore, many modifications can be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the disclosure without deviating from its essential scope. Therefore, it is intended that the present disclosure is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed, but includes all embodiments that fall within its scope.

Claims

[1] Vehicle system comprising: a bottom having a first side and a second side opposite the first side, the bottom including a plurality of openings; a seat movably mounted on the floor, the seat comprising a frame with a support member; an anchor system attached to the support member, the anchor system comprising a selectively extendable anchor that secures the seat through one of the plurality of openings in the floor; and a thermal control system disposed in the seat, the thermal control system comprising a channel having an inlet and an outlet, the inlet being selectively connectable to a vehicle-based fluid delivery system. [2] The vehicle system of claim 1, further comprising a supply of conditioned fluid flowing across the second side of the floor, the supply of conditioned fluid entering the inlet through selected ones of the plurality of openings. [3] The vehicle system of claim 2, wherein the seat comprises a backrest and a seat base, wherein the channel comprises a first channel having a first inlet disposed on the support member and a first outlet disposed in the backrest, and a second channel having a second inlet disposed on the support member and a second outlet disposed in the seat base. [4] The vehicle system of claim 2, further comprising a valve element disposed in each of the plurality of openings, the valve element being selectively opened when connected to the inlet. [5] The vehicle system of claim 4, wherein the valve member comprises a flexible nozzle portion comprising a first portion and a second portion, the flexible nozzle portion being selectively expanded by the inlet. [6] The vehicle system of claim 4, further comprising a conditioned fluid manifold connected to the inlet, the conditioned fluid manifold comprising a plurality of inlet elements selectively passing through selected ones of the plurality of openings. [7] The vehicle system of claim 1, wherein the armature system comprises a solenoid surrounding the selectively deployable armature, the solenoid being energized to extend the selectively deployable armature through the one of the plurality of openings. [8] The vehicle system of claim 1, wherein the inlet projects rearwardly from the seat, the inlet being selectively connectable to a wall-mounted port for supplying conditioned fluid. [9] Vehicle comprising: a body defining a passenger compartment with a floor having a first side and a second side opposite the first side, and a plurality of openings formed in the floor; a seat movably mounted on the first side of the floor, the seat comprising a frame with a support member; an anchor system attached to the support member, the anchor system comprising a selectively extendable anchor that secures the seat through one of the plurality of openings in the floor; and a thermal control system disposed in the seat, the thermal control system comprising a channel having an inlet and an outlet, the inlet being selectively connectable to a vehicle-based fluid delivery system. [10] The vehicle of claim 9, further comprising a supply of conditioned fluid flowing across the second side of the floor, the supply of conditioned fluid entering the inlet through selected ones of the plurality of openings.

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