air vents

Abstract

The invention relates to an air outlet for supplying fresh air into the interior of a vehicle. An air outlet designed according to the invention comprises a housing G with an inlet opening G3 and an outlet opening G5 for an airflow W1, W2, W3, a front panel S1 which divides the outlet opening into two partial outlet openings, an air guide element E which is rotatably arranged in the housing between the inlet opening and the front panel about a rotational axis X2, is cylindrical in shape with at least one axially extending chamfered air guide surface E2, directs the airflow to the first partial outlet opening G51 in a first rotational position and thereby closes the second partial outlet opening G52, directs the airflow to the second partial outlet opening and thereby closes the first partial outlet opening in a second rotational position, and closes the inlet opening in a third rotational position, and a light element D.which is positioned on the front panel between the partial outlet openings such that its primary light emission D3 is directed outwards away from the housing, and is controlled during rotation of the air guide element E depending on the direction of rotation of the air guide element E. Such an air outlet offers the advantage that no air guide elements are visible to a person, that a person can deduce the respective flow setting of the air outlet by observing the light emission of the light element, and that, due to the most direct and unaltered light emission possible, the actual and logical perceptibility of the light emission to a person is significantly improved even under difficult visibility conditions.

Description

[0001] The invention relates to an air outlet for supplying fresh air into the interior of a vehicle.

[0002] Vehicles, especially passenger cars, trucks, trains, and aircraft, generally have an enclosed interior for people. To maintain a comfortable interior climate, fresh air is supplied to the interior of such vehicles.

[0003] For this purpose, particularly in vehicle interiors where the fresh air supply system should be as inconspicuous as possible, air vents can be used that are integrated into an existing interior structure, especially a dashboard or door panel, so that only the outlet openings of the air vents are visible to a person from the outside. Such air vents with concealed internal components are also known as "joint vents".

[0004] An example of such a generic air outlet is known from EP 3 702 185 A1. This outlet has a flow-through housing from which a first and a second air channel extend. A rotatable air guide structure is arranged in the housing, which allows the relative air supply to the air channels to be changed. This allows the direction of the overall outgoing airflow to be altered. Furthermore, by rotating the air guide structure, the air inlet into the housing can be blocked, preventing air from entering the air outlet.

[0005] Such air vents have the characteristic that their flow-guiding components are concealed, so that a person inside the vehicle cannot deduce the direction of airflow from the vent simply by observing the position of the air guide elements. To remedy this, air vents with integrated lighting are known. These emit a light signal from which a person can deduce operating parameters, in particular the direction and / or temperature of the outgoing air, by observing the air vent.

[0006] An example of such an air outlet is known from DE 10 2019 126 102 A1. This outlet comprises a body with an inlet and an outlet, and a guide element. The guide element divides the interior of the body into two passages. The guide element is movably mounted on the body, so that repositioning the guide element allows adjustment of the direction and / or quantity of the airflow exiting the air outlet. The air outlet has a lighting device integrated into the guide element. The guide element is thus illuminated from within. The lighting device includes a light source positioned between a mirror and a semi-reflective mirror. The light from the light source is reflected multiple times between the mirror and the semi-reflective mirror, so that for an observer, several offset images of the same light source are created, thus visually producing a mat of light points.

[0007] Another such air outlet is known by way of example from DE 10 2018 219 702 A1. This comprises a housing with an outlet opening, at least one pivotable airflow control element in the housing, a light source, and at least one optical component for influencing the beam path of the light source. The optical component is coupled to the airflow control element so that the beam path is emitted in the direction in which the airflow control element is directed.

[0008] These types of air vents have the problem that the light sources are located inside the airflow channel. Therefore, only indirect light escapes, the intensity of which may be reduced by reflection and transmission. This creates the risk that a light signal will not be clearly visible to a person, making it difficult for them to determine the operating parameters of such an air vent. Furthermore, the visibility of the light signal, and thus the ability to determine operating parameters, is further hampered, especially when the air vent is exposed to direct sunlight or viewed from the side.

[0009] Another such air outlet is known by way of example from DE 10 2019 105 121 A1. This has an air guide housing with a fan and, behind it, an upper and a lower air guide duct, which open into an upper and a lower air outlet slot, respectively. An upper and a lower auxiliary fan are arranged in the upper and lower air guide ducts, respectively, allowing the flow velocity in the upper and lower air guide ducts to be adjusted differently. This allows the resulting airflow to be directed in different directions. An upper and a lower temperature sensor and an upper and a lower air sensor are also arranged in the upper and lower air guide ducts, respectively. A display panel is arranged between the upper and lower air outlet slots, the display of which is controlled based on signals from the temperature and air sensors.This allows information about the resulting airflow to be transmitted.

[0010] This air outlet is based on the principle that the airflow is accelerated to different degrees in the upper and lower air channels to generate a resulting airflow and direct its direction. The two air channels are not closable and therefore always allow airflow. This principle requires a minimum airflow for effective direction of the resulting airflow, meaning that, especially at low flow velocities, for example, when a person desires only a weak airflow, the direction of the resulting airflow cannot be reliably controlled. In such a case, the blower supplies only a small amount of ambient air to the air outlet.Especially when a strong lateral airflow with low velocity is desired, the partial flow in one air duct must be accelerated significantly, creating the risk of exceeding the desired airflow volume. Simultaneously, the airflow through the other air duct is not restricted, resulting in undesired air escaping from that duct as well. This further increases the volume of the resulting airflow and undesirably alters its direction.

[0011] The invention is therefore based on the objective of demonstrating an air outlet that enables reliable airflow even at low flow velocities and at the same time better visibility of a light signal emitted by the air outlet for a person.

[0012] The problem is solved by the air outlet specified in claim 1. Advantageous further embodiments of the invention are specified in the dependent claims.

[0013] According to the invention, the air outlet comprises a housing with an inlet opening and an outlet opening for an airflow, a front panel that divides the outlet opening into two partial outlet openings, an air guide element rotatably arranged in the housing between the inlet opening and the front panel about an axis of rotation, which is cylindrical with at least one axially extending chamfered air guide surface, directs the airflow to the first partial outlet opening in a first rotational position and thereby closes the second partial outlet opening, directs the airflow to the second partial outlet opening in a second rotational position and thereby closes the first partial outlet opening, and closes the inlet opening in a third rotational position, and a light element that is arranged on the front panel between the partial outlet openings such that its primary light emission is directed outwards from the housing.and is controlled during a rotation of the air guide element depending on the direction of rotation of the air guide element.

[0014] According to the invention, the housing is permeable to an airflow that enters the housing through an inlet opening and exits the housing through an outlet opening. For this purpose, the housing can, for example, be designed as a hollow body or have a flow-through channel provided for this purpose.

[0015] The front panel is arranged within the flow cross-section of the outlet opening, thus dividing the outlet opening into two partial outlet openings according to the invention. The front panel is therefore surrounded by the partial airflows on both sides. For this purpose, the front panel does not need to be arranged directly in the plane of the outlet opening, but can also be slightly recessed into the housing in front of the outlet opening or slightly recessed out of the housing behind the outlet opening. The front panel and / or the housing can be shaped in the area of ​​the outlet opening such that the partial airflows from the partial outlet openings are directed in different directions. In this way, the airflow can be directed into different areas of the interior of a vehicle.In particular, the front panel and / or the housing in the area of ​​the outlet opening can be shaped such that the partial airflows exiting the partial outlet openings are inclined towards each other. The partial airflows thus cross behind the outlet opening and form a resulting overall airflow. The direction of this overall airflow can be changed by altering the proportions of the airflows exiting from the two partial outlet openings.

[0016] According to the invention, the air guide element is arranged in the housing between the inlet opening and the front panel and is rotatably mounted about an axis of rotation. Thus, viewed in the direction of airflow, the air guide element is positioned in front of the front panel. The air guide element is positioned within the airflow so that it can also be surrounded by air from two sides. According to the invention, the air guide element is cylindrical in shape with at least one axially extending chamfered air guide surface and therefore has a largely cylindrical basic shape and a largely round cross-section. The at least one air guide surface is formed as an axially extending chamfer in the outer surface of the air guide element.This external shape gives the air guide element a closed, largely homogeneous, and aerodynamically efficient outline, allowing the airflow to flow homogeneously along the cylindrical surface, particularly during rotation. This advantageously reduces the formation of undesirable zones of high dynamic pressure on the air guide element, thereby reducing both the stress on the mechanical components of the air outlet and the undesirable occurrence of air turbulence audible to a person inside the vehicle.

[0017] The air guide element can be rotated around its axis of rotation into different positions. According to the invention, in a first position, the airflow is directed to the first partial outlet opening, while the air guide element closes the second partial outlet opening. In a second position, the airflow is directed to the second partial outlet opening, while the air guide element closes the first partial outlet opening. In these positions, the entire airflow is directed through the air outlet of one of the partial outlet openings, while simultaneously ensuring that no unwanted airflow occurs through the other partial outlet opening. This ensures effective airflow to the partial outlet openings, particularly at low flow velocities, and thus reliable airflow direction even at low flow velocities.According to the invention, in a third rotational position, the air guide element in the housing closes the inlet opening. In this way, the amount of airflow through the air outlet can be reduced to zero. Such a rotational position of the air guide element can also be referred to as a "locking position." This advantageously improves the versatility of an air outlet according to the invention. The air guide element can have further rotational positions, specifically adapted for a particular purpose.

[0018] Furthermore, the air guide element can be rotated into positions between the specific positions mentioned. This makes it possible to change the amount of airflow through the housing or the proportion of airflow directed to the first and second outlet openings. In particular, by continuously rotating the air guide element between the first and second positions, the proportion of airflow supplied to the first and second outlet openings can be continuously adjusted.

[0019] According to the invention, the air outlet has a light element. This light element is located on the front panel, not inside it, but rather on an outer surface of the front panel. This prevents the light emitted by the light element from having to penetrate the material of the front panel and thus potentially being attenuated undesirably by transmission. The light element can also be arranged on the surface of a recess or groove incorporated into the front panel. According to the invention, the light element is positioned between the partial outlet openings. The light element is thus placed as close as possible to the side of the air outlet where the air flows out. In this way, a particularly effective and largely unobstructed direct emission of light is achieved. This further improves the visibility of the light emission to a person.

[0020] According to the invention, the light element is arranged such that its primary light emission is directed outwards, away from the housing. This prevents secondary or scattered light from entering the environment and ensures that the majority of the light emission is emitted into the environment as undamped and unattenuated as possible, directed away from the air outlet. A light element positioned and oriented in this way has the advantageous effect of producing light emission that is as direct and unaltered as possible, and in particular, as little attenuation as possible, allowing it to be perceived clearly and unimpeded by a person. This significantly improves the actual visibility of the light emission for a person, even under difficult viewing conditions, especially in bright environments such as direct sunlight or when viewed from a sharp angle.

[0021] According to the invention, the light element is controlled during rotation of the air guide element, i.e., during adjustment of the air outlet's discharge characteristics by rotating the air guide element. The light element is directly controlled in such a way that its operating state, i.e., its light emission, changes. For example, the intensity, color, content, dynamics, or animation can be changed by appropriate control. In this way, it is possible to convey information to a person perceiving the light emission by means of controlled changes in the light emission.

[0022] According to the invention, the light element is controlled depending on the direction of rotation. The light element is controlled in such a way that it emits a light emission that is characteristic of each direction of rotation. Since the rotation of the air guide element changes the outflow characteristics of an air outlet according to the invention—that is, the proportion of outflowing air between the first and second outlet openings is changed, or the air outlet is moved into a closed position—a person can determine, by perceiving and interpreting the light emission of the light element, how the outflow characteristics of an air outlet according to the invention are being changed.

[0023] An air outlet designed according to the invention thus offers the particular advantage that a person can deduce the respective flow setting of the air outlet by observing the characteristics of the light emission of the light element, and that, due to the light emission being as direct and unchanged as possible, the actual and logical recognizability of the light emission for a person is significantly improved even under difficult visibility conditions.

[0024] In a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the air outlet has a diffuser in front of the light element. This diffuser has a structure suitable for distributing the light emission of the light element diffusely. Such a structure can be created, for example, by a rough or profiled surface or by incorporating scattering particles into the material of the diffuser. This makes it possible to reduce local concentrations of light emission and distribute the light emission over a larger area. The result is a more homogeneous and glare-free light distribution, which is particularly noticeable when viewed by a person. This advantageously improves the visibility of the light emission from the light element to a person.

[0025] In a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the light element comprises a two-dimensional, row- and column-shaped arrangement of at least two light-emitting diodes (LEDs) arranged one above the other and at least two side by side. The use of light-emitting diodes, or LEDs for short, enables a compact design of the light element and high luminous efficacy with low energy consumption. This advantageously further improves the visibility of a light signal emitted by the air outlet to a person.

[0026] The LEDs can be activated simultaneously, thus increasing the amount of light emitted by the light element. This advantageously improves the actual perceptibility of a light signal emitted by the air outlet to a person. Furthermore, the LEDs can be activated unevenly, in particular serially or alternately. This allows for the creation of various switching scenarios that can be perceived by a person as a code or animation, from which a person can advantageously derive diverse information related to the rotational position of the air guide element.

[0027] In this advantageous embodiment, the LEDs are arranged vertically in a columnar configuration and simultaneously horizontally in a row. This advantageously forms an LED matrix. This arrangement of LEDs is particularly suitable for simultaneously conveying information to a person about both the vertical and horizontal orientation of the airflow. The advantageous effect is achieved that, on the one hand, the use of multiple LEDs improves the actual perceptibility of the light emission to a person, and on the other hand, the arrangement and wiring of the LEDs can convey additional information to a person, especially regarding the vertical and horizontal parameters of the air outlet. This thus also improves the logical perceptibility of the light emission to a person.

[0028] In a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the light element has a light barrier between the light-emitting diodes (LEDs). This barrier expediently extends in the form of a wall or a bridge between and overlying LEDs arranged one above the other or side by side. This makes it possible to shield the light emission of individual LEDs or groups of LEDs from one another, thus preventing the light emission from individual LEDs or groups of LEDs from spilling over onto adjacent, possibly inactive, LEDs or areas of LEDs. As a result, the light emission emitted by the light element is as clearly defined as possible and has the sharpest possible outline. Particularly when several LEDs are activated, this improves the sharpness of the LED pattern recognizable to a person.This further improves the actual and logical perceptibility of the light emission of the light element to a person.

[0029] In a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the light element is controlled during a rotation of the air guide element in the direction of one of the partial outlet openings in such a way that superimposed light-emitting diodes (LEDs) of the two-dimensional row and column arrangement emit light individually or in groups, which is progressively displayed in the manner of a light animation in the direction of the respective other partial outlet opening by the superimposed light-emitting diodes (LEDs).

[0030] Progressive control means that LEDs are not activated simultaneously, but rather sequentially, following a continuous pattern of parallel or overlapping LEDs. After activating a single LED or group of LEDs as a starting point, further individual LEDs or groups of LEDs are activated after a predetermined time. These are arranged in a specific direction next to or above the initial LED or group. Then, after another predetermined time, further individual LEDs or groups of LEDs are activated, positioned in roughly the same direction behind the previously activated LED(s). The LEDs or groups of LEDs do not necessarily have to be activated in immediate succession; rather, they can be activated in a specific order.Groups of LEDs can also be activated only intermittently, for example, only every third consecutive LED. The resulting dynamic activation sequence of individual LEDs or groups of LEDs in a progressive direction can thus be perceived by a person as a light animation in a specific direction.

[0031] In this advantageous embodiment of the invention, the column-shaped, i.e., predominantly vertically stacked, LEDs are progressively controlled as described above, such that the individual LEDs or groups of LEDs are activated progressively in the vertical direction. This allows a light animation to be generated in the vertical direction. The activation of the individual LEDs or groups of LEDs occurs during a rotation of the air guide element, so that a person can deduce from the activation that a rotation of the air guide element and thus a change in the outflow characteristics of an air outlet according to the invention is underway. Furthermore, when the air guide element is rotated in the direction of one of the partial outlet openings, the activation of the individual LEDs or groups of LEDs occurs in the direction of the respective other partial outlet opening. For example,When the air guide element is rotated towards the upper partial outlet, the LEDs are progressively activated towards the lower partial outlet. Thus, when observing such a vertical light animation, a person can deduce how the airflow changes in the vertical direction and how the vertical outlet characteristic of an air outlet according to the invention changes. This further improves the logical perceptibility of the light emission for a person.

[0032] According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the air outlet has at least one air guide flap in the housing in front of the outlet opening, which is rotatable transversely to the axis of rotation of the air guide element. The air guide flap enables variable control or deflection of the airflow about a second spatial axis. Together with the deflection of the airflow by rotation of the air guide element, this allows for variable two-dimensional deflection of the airflow. This advantageously further improves the versatility of an air outlet according to the invention.

[0033] In a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the light element is controlled such that the intensity of the emitted light is increased during rotation of at least one air guide flap. By observing the light element, a person can thus deduce from the perceived intensity of the emitted light whether the air guide flap is currently rotating. This provides the person with additional feedback on an interaction, for example, indicating that a change in the rotational position initiated by the person, which results in a change in the outflow characteristics of the air outlet, is currently being executed. Due to the increased intensity of the emitted light, both the actual and the logical perceptibility of the light emission during rotation of the air guide flap are improved for the person.

[0034] In a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the light element is controlled during rotation of at least one air guide flap such that adjacent light-emitting diodes (LEDs) in a two-dimensional row and column arrangement emit light individually or in groups, creating a progressive light animation in the direction of the position of the at least one air guide flap. This involves the progressive control of individual LEDs or groups of LEDs as described above. In this advantageous embodiment of the invention, the LEDs, arranged in a row, i.e., predominantly horizontally adjacent, are progressively controlled such that the individual LEDs or groups of LEDs are progressively activated in the horizontal direction. This allows a light animation to be generated in the horizontal direction.The direction of the activation sequence of the individual LEDs or groups of LEDs is advantageously aligned with the direction of rotation of an air damper. Thus, when observing such a horizontal light animation, a person can deduce how a change in the horizontal airflow occurs and how the horizontal discharge characteristic of an air outlet according to the invention changes. This further improves the logical perceptibility of the light emission for a person.

[0035] According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the light element is controlled during oscillating rotations of the air guide element and air guide flap such that light-emitting diodes (LEDs) of the two-dimensional row and column arrangement emit light individually or in groups, which is progressively displayed in the manner of a light animation of a wave by the light-emitting diodes (LEDs) arranged side by side and one above the other. This results in a simultaneous oscillating change in the direction of the airflow in the vertical and horizontal directions. Such control of the air guide element and air guide flap enables a large-area supply of air from changing directions into the interior of a vehicle, which is perceived by a person as a kind of light gust of wind and can therefore be described as a "breeze effect".

[0036] This involves the progressive control of individual LEDs or groups of LEDs, as described above. In this advantageous embodiment of the invention, the two-dimensional row and column arrangement can be controlled such that the wave-like light animation is displayed progressively, for example, as a longitudinal wave in the vertical or horizontal direction, or as a transverse wave. A person viewing such a wave-like light animation can thus deduce that a simultaneous oscillating change in the airflow is occurring in both the vertical and horizontal directions, similar to light gusts of wind. This further improves the logical recognizability of the light emission for a person.

[0037] In a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the speed of the light animations emitted by the light element is controlled as a function of the airflow speed. A person can thus derive information about the airflow speed from the perceived speed of the light animations when observing the light element. Advantageously, the speed of the light animations is controlled directly proportionally to the airflow speed. This further improves the logical perceptibility of the light emission from the light element to a person.

[0038] In a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the light element is controlled such that the intensity of the emitted light is increased during rotation of the air guide element. By observing the light element, a person can thus deduce from the perceived intensity of the emitted light whether the air guide element is currently rotating. This provides feedback to the person, for example, indicating that a change in the rotational position initiated by the person, which results in a change in the outflow characteristics of the air outlet, is currently being executed. Due to the increased intensity of the emitted light, both the actual and the logical perceptibility of the light emission during rotation of the air guide element are improved for the person.

[0039] The invention and further advantageous embodiments thereof are explained in more detail below with reference to the briefly mentioned figures. These figures show Fig. 1 an exemplary air outlet designed according to the invention in a lateral sectional view along the section axis X5 of Fig. 5, wherein the air guide element is aligned in a third rotational position in which the inlet opening is closed, Fig. 2 the exemplary air outlet designed according to the invention Fig. 1 in a side sectional view along the section axis X5 of Fig. 5, wherein the air guide element is aligned in a first rotational position in which the airflow is directed towards the first partial discharge opening, Fig. 3 the exemplary air outlet designed according to the invention Fig. 1 in a side sectional view along the section axis X5 of Fig. 5, wherein the air guide element is aligned in a second rotational position in which the airflow is directed to the second partial outlet opening, Fig. 4 the exemplary air outlet designed according to the invention Fig. 1 in a side sectional view along the section axis X5 of Fig. 5, wherein the air guide element is aligned in a fourth rotational position in which the airflow is directed to both the first partial outlet opening and the second partial outlet opening, Fig. 5 exemplary air outlets designed according to the invention Fig. 1 in a frontal top view of the front frame, Fig. 6 Three frontal views of the light element of the exemplary air outlet designed according to the invention Fig. 1, where each view represents a step in an upward-progressing light animation, Fig. 7 Three frontal views of the light element of the exemplary air outlet designed according to the invention Fig. 1, where each view represents a step in a downward-progressing light animation, Fig. 8 Four frontal views of the light element of the exemplary air outlet designed according to the invention Fig. 1, where each view represents a step in a rightward-progressing light animation, Fig. 9 Four frontal views of the light element of the exemplary air outlet designed according to the invention Fig. 1, where each view represents one step of a leftward progressing light animation, Fig. 10 Four frontal views of the light element of the exemplary air outlet designed according to the invention Fig. 1, where each view represents a step in a light animation progressing upwards to the right, Fig. 11 Four frontal views of the light element of the exemplary air outlet designed according to the invention Fig. 1, where each view represents a step in a light animation progressing upwards to the left, Fig. 12 Four frontal views of the light element of the exemplary air outlet designed according to the invention Fig. 1, where each view represents a step in a light animation progressing downwards to the right, Fig. 13 Four frontal views of the light element of the exemplary air outlet designed according to the invention Fig. 1, where each view represents a step in a light animation progressing downwards to the left, and Fig. 14 Four frontal views of the light element of the exemplary air outlet designed according to the invention Fig. 1, where each view represents a step in a wave-like progressive light animation.

[0040] In the Fig. 1 to Fig. Figure 4 shows the same advantageous air outlet L designed according to the invention, with the air guide element E oriented in different rotational positions. The air outlet L is elongated and extends along the transverse axis X2, wherein in the Fig. 1 to 4 each only one sectional view along the section axis X5 of Fig. Figure 5 is shown. Furthermore, the air outlet L and its components shown in the figures are only depicted schematically and in a technically simplified manner.

[0041] According to the representation in Fig. Figure 1 of the air outlet L comprises a housing G designed as a hollow body with an inlet opening G1 and a feed channel G2 arranged behind it. This feed channel opens into the air chamber G4 of the housing G via an inlet opening G3. An outlet opening G5 is arranged on the side of the housing G opposite the inlet opening G1. The housing G is thus open to airflow along its longitudinal axis X1. The housing G of the air outlet L is largely mirror-symmetrical about its longitudinal axis X1.

[0042] According to the invention, the air outlet L has a front panel S1 which is arranged in the outlet opening G5 of the housing G and thus divides it into a first partial outlet opening G51 and a second partial outlet opening G52. Advantageously, the first partial outlet opening G51 is formed above the front panel S1 and the second partial outlet opening G52 is formed below the front panel S1.

[0043] The front panel S1 is advantageously offset into the housing G along the longitudinal axis X1 and thus positioned in the direction of flow upstream of the outlet opening G5. The resulting offset between the outlet opening G5 and the front panel S1 means that the first and second partial outlet openings G51, G52 are not arranged in the same plane as the outlet opening G5 of the housing G. Rather, the planes of the first and second partial outlet openings G51, G52 are shifted obliquely into the housing G. The first partial outlet opening G51, the front panel S1, and the second partial outlet opening thus form a U-shaped arrangement located upstream of the outlet opening G5 of the housing G in the air chamber G4. For a clearer understanding of this U-shaped arrangement, the planes of the first and second partial outlet openings G51, G52 are shown in Fig. 1 each highlighted with dashed lines.

[0044] In the air outlet L shown in the figures, the first and second partial outlet openings G51, G52 are advantageously designed as slots. These therefore have a significantly greater length along the transverse axis X2 than their width along the longitudinal axis X1.

[0045] According to the invention, the air outlet L has an air guide element E which is rotatably arranged in the air chamber G4 of the housing G between the inlet opening G3 and the front panel S1 about the transverse axis X2. In the air outlet L shown in the figures, the air guide element E is essentially cylindrical and has a circular arc-shaped outer segment E1 and a chamfered air guide surface E2 extending along the rotation or transverse axis X2. This surface advantageously has a convex outwardly curved shape. The essentially cylindrical basic shape of the air guide element E is shown in the Fig. 1 to 4 are represented by the dashed envelope of the air guide element E.

[0046] In the air outlet L shown in the figures, the shape of the housing G and the shape and arrangement of the air guide element E in the housing G are coordinated in such a way that, depending on the rotational position of the air guide element E, the airflow can be regulated or directed. According to the invention, the air guide element E directs the airflow in a first rotational position, which is shown in Fig. Figure 2, which will be explained in more detail below, directs the airflow to the first partial outlet opening G51 and, in a second rotational position, which is shown in Fig. Figure 3 shows and will be explained in more detail below the airflow to the second partial outlet opening G52.

[0047] The front panel S1 of the air outlet L shown in the figures is flat, oriented approximately transversely to the longitudinal axis X1, and extends along the transverse axis X2 across the entire width of the outlet opening G5. The air guide element E is largely obscured by the front panel S1 when viewed from the outlet opening G5. The front panel S1 has a first side rail S2 along its upper transverse edge and a second side rail S3 along its lower transverse edge. These run obliquely to the front panel S1, approximately following the shape of the housing wall G in the area of ​​the outlet opening G5, and approaching the dashed outline of the air guide element E.The first side panel S2, together with the wall of the housing G, thus forms an upper air channel to the first partial outlet opening G51, and the second side panel S3, together with the wall of the housing G, forms a lower air channel to the second partial outlet opening G52. In a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, not shown separately, the front panel has a groove or channel extending along the transverse axis in its front surface, into which the light element is inserted.

[0048] The housing G advantageously has a nozzle-like narrowing towards the outlet opening G5. Thus, the air channels formed by the wall of the housing G and the first and second side ribs S2 and S3, respectively, have oblique, converging profiles. The upper air channel to the first partial outlet opening G51 runs obliquely downwards relative to the longitudinal axis X1, and the lower air channel to the second partial outlet opening G52 runs obliquely upwards relative to the longitudinal axis X1. In the air outlet L shown in the figures, the first and second side ribs S2 and S3 form a flow profile S that is essentially U-shaped and runs along the transverse axis X2. Therefore, by selectively directing the airflow into the upper air channel to the first partial outlet opening G51, or vice versa, the airflow can be directed towards the first partial outlet opening G51.By rotating the air guide element E, it is possible to change the direction of the airflow into the interior of a vehicle in a vertical direction transverse to the longitudinal and transverse axes X1, X2 in the lower air duct to the second partial outlet opening G52. Airflow from the first partial outlet opening G51 into the interior of a vehicle is directed downwards, and airflow from the second partial outlet opening G52 into the interior of a vehicle is directed upwards.

[0049] The air outlet L advantageously comprises at least one air guide flap K in the housing G. The air outlet L shown in the figures has several air guide flaps K arranged one behind the other along the transverse axis X2. These are each designed in two parts and are rotatable about an axis oriented transversely to the longitudinal axis X1. A first air guide flap K1 is arranged in the upper air duct to the first partial outlet opening G51 between the first side panel S2 and the wall of the housing G and is rotatable about a first pivot axis X3 via a first pivot pin K3. A second air guide flap K2 is arranged in the lower air duct to the second partial outlet opening G52 between the second side panel S3 and the wall of the housing G and is rotatable about a second pivot axis X4, which is aligned with the first pivot axis X3, via a second pivot pin K4.By means of the air guide flaps K it is possible to change the direction of the airflow in a horizontal direction along the transverse axis Q2.

[0050] The air outlet L also features a front frame F, which is mounted on the housing G in the area of ​​the outlet opening G5. The front frame F can be used as a flush finish when integrating an air outlet L into an existing structure. The front frame F has a through-hole F1, which has an outline largely corresponding to the outlet opening G5 and through which an airflow can exit into the interior of a vehicle.

[0051] According to the invention, the air outlet L has a light element D arranged on the front panel S1 in the area of ​​the outlet opening G5, the primary light emission of which is directed outwards away from the housing G. In the air outlet L shown in the figures, the light element D is arranged on the front surface S11 of the front panel S1, which faces the outlet opening G5, so that its light emission passes through the outlet opening G5 and the passage opening F1 of the front panel F almost unimpeded to the outside and can be seen by a person in the interior of a vehicle with almost no attenuation.

[0052] In the air outlet L shown in the figures, the light element D has a two-dimensional row- and column-shaped arrangement of several light-emitting diodes D2, or LEDs for short, arranged one above the other and several next to each other. In the sectional views of Fig. Figures 1 to 4 show a column-shaped arrangement of the LEDs of light element D; the horizontal arrangement of the LEDs of light element D is shown by... Fig. 5 will be explained. The three LEDs arranged one above the other are as shown in the illustration of Fig. 1 arranged on a carrier board D1 on the front surface S11 of the front panel S1. In further advantageous embodiments of the invention, not shown separately, the light element is designed as a planar light-emitting film or LCD display or OLED display.

[0053] Advantageously, an additional diffuser D4 is arranged on the light element D. This enables a diffuse light distribution and thus prevents local concentrations in the light emission that might be perceived as undesirably bright by a person. The diffuser can also have an additionally frosted surface on the outside, so that while the light emission from the light element penetrates to the outside and can be seen by a person inside a vehicle, the internal structure of the light element remains invisible to a person.

[0054] Furthermore, the light element D advantageously features a light barrier D5 between the LEDs D2. In the advantageous air outlet L shown in the figures, this barrier is designed as horizontal ribs arranged between the individual LEDs D2 of the column-shaped arrangements of three LEDs D2 stacked one above the other, and extending along the transverse axis X2 across the width of the light element D. This shades the LEDs D2 of the light element D from each other in the vertical direction, so that the light emissions of the individual LEDs are clearly visible and distinguishable from one another when the light element is viewed by a person. In the advantageous air outlet L shown in the figures, the ribs of the light barrier D5 extend from the carrier board D1 to the diffuser D4. The light barrier D5 is in the Fig. Figures 1 to 4 are represented symbolically by lines between LEDs D2. In further advantageous embodiments of the invention, not shown separately in the figures, the light barrier is designed as vertical struts between adjacent LEDs or as a grid between LEDs arranged one above the other and side by side.

[0055] According to the invention, the light element D is controlled during a rotation of the air guide element E, depending on the direction of rotation of the air guide element E. This is now demonstrated using the Fig. 1 to 4 explained. Since in the Fig. Since the same air outlet L is depicted in figures 1 to 4, only in different operating states, the preceding description of the air outlet L also applies to the Fig. 2 to 4. Therefore, the following will only address the differences between the figures.

[0056] In Fig. Figure 1 shows the air outlet L, with the air guide element E positioned in an advantageous third rotational position, in which it closes the inlet opening G3. Such a rotational position of the air guide element can also be referred to as the "blocking position". The path of the airflow is shown schematically in the figure with dashed arrows.

[0057] In this rotational position, the arc-shaped defect segment E1 of the air guide element E rests against the upper or lower wall of the housing G in such a way that it closes the inlet opening G3, thus preventing an incoming airflow W1 from entering the air chamber through the air guide element E. Consequently, no airflow escapes from the first or second partial outlet opening G51, G52.

[0058] The illustrated third rotational position of the air guide element L can be seen as a kind of starting position for an air outlet L according to the invention, before a person puts it into operation. In the advantageous air outlet L shown in the figures, the light element D is controlled in this third rotational position of the air guide element in such a way that it does not produce any light emission.

[0059] In Fig. Figure 2 shows the air outlet L, with the air guide element E aligned in a first rotational position according to the invention, in which the airflow is directed to the first partial outlet opening G51. The path of the airflow is shown schematically in the figure with dashed arrows.

[0060] To transfer the air outlet L from the operating state according to Fig. 1 into operating condition according to Fig. 2. The air guide element E is rotated towards the first partial outlet opening G51 until the angled air guide surface E2 is flush with the wall of the housing G at its lower end and flush with the first side edge S2 of the airflow profile S at its upper end. An airflow W1 supplied to the housing G through the inlet opening G1 is deflected upwards by the angled air guide surface E2 after entering the interior G4 through the inlet opening G3. As a deflected airflow W2, it passes along the upper air duct, passes the first side edge S2, and is fed to the first partial outlet opening G51 above the front panel S1. It then exits the air outlet L into the vehicle interior as a downward-directed airflow W3. The lower air duct towards the second partial outlet opening G52 is thus closed by the arc-shaped outer segment E1 of the air guide element E.This prevents air from escaping through the second partial outlet opening G52.

[0061] During the transition of the air outlet L to the operating state according to Fig. 2, i.e., during the rotation of the air guide element E, the light element D is controlled depending on the direction of rotation of the air guide element E. In the advantageous air outlet L shown in the figures, designed according to the invention, the light element D is advantageously controlled during the rotation of the air guide element E depending on the direction of rotation of the air guide element E such that the light element D emits a vertical light animation. This is demonstrated by the Fig. 6 and Fig. 7 will be described in more detail. Fig. Figure 2 shows the final state of this control. In this final state, a lower LED D2 of the column-shaped arrangement of three vertically stacked LEDs of the light element D is activated. The light D3 emitted by the light element D is symbolically indicated in the figure by three lines. A person observing the light element can deduce from the activation of the lower LED of the light element D that the air guide element E is in a rotational position in which a downward outflow from the air outlet L occurs.

[0062] In Fig. Figure 3 shows the air outlet L, with the air guide element E aligned in a second rotational position according to the invention, in which the airflow is directed to the second partial outlet opening G52. The path of the airflow is shown schematically in the figure with dashed arrows.

[0063] To transfer the air outlet L from the operating state according to Fig. 2 into operating condition according to Fig. 3. The air guide element E is rotated towards the second partial outlet opening G52 until the beveled air guide surface E2 is flush with the wall of the housing G at its upper end and flush with the second side strip S3 of the flow profile S at its lower end. An airflow W1 supplied to the housing G through the inlet opening G1 is deflected downwards by the beveled air guide surface E2 after entering the interior G4 through the inlet opening G3. As a deflected airflow W2, it passes along the lower air duct, passes the second side strip S3, and is fed to the second partial outlet opening G52 below the front panel S1. It then exits the air outlet L into the vehicle interior as an upward-directed airflow W3. The upper air duct towards the first partial outlet opening G51 is thus closed by the arc-shaped outer segment E1 of the air guide element E.This prevents air from escaping through the first partial exhaust opening G51.

[0064] During the transition of the air outlet L to the operating state according to Fig. 3, i.e., during the rotation of the air guide element E, the light element D is controlled depending on the direction of rotation of the air guide element E. In the advantageous air outlet L shown in the figures, designed according to the invention, the light element D is advantageously controlled during the rotation of the air guide element E depending on the direction of rotation of the air guide element E such that the light element D emits a vertical light animation. This is demonstrated by the Fig. 6 and Fig. 7 will be described in more detail. Fig. Figure 3 shows the final state of this control process. In this final state, an upper LED D2 of the column-shaped arrangement of three vertically stacked LEDs of the light element D is activated. The light D3 emitted by the light element D is symbolically indicated in the figure by three lines. A person observing the light element can deduce from the activation of the upper LED of the light element D that the air guide element E is in a rotational position in which an upward outflow from the air outlet L occurs.

[0065] In Fig. Figure 4 shows the air outlet L, with the air guide element E positioned in an advantageous fourth rotational position in which the airflow is directed, particularly advantageously in equal proportions, to both the first partial outlet opening G51 and the second partial outlet opening G51. Such a rotational position of the air guide element can also be referred to as the "center position" or "neutral position". The path of the airflow is shown schematically in the figure with dashed arrows.

[0066] In this rotational position, the arc-shaped mantle segment E1 of the air guide element E is aligned approximately transversely to the longitudinal axis X1. An airflow W1 supplied to the housing G through the supply opening G1 is split after entering the interior G4 through the inlet opening G3 by the advantageously convexly curved surface of the arc-shaped mantle segment E1 and deflected both upwards and downwards. The upwardly deflected portion of the airflow passes as a redirected airflow W2 along the upper air duct, along the first side panel S2, and is fed to the first partial outlet opening G51 above the front panel S1. The downwardly deflected portion of the airflow passes as a redirected airflow W2 along the lower air duct, along the second side panel S3, and is fed to the second partial outlet opening G52 below the front panel S1. Due to the obliquely opposing orientations of the first and second side panels, respectively, the airflow is distributed evenly.In the second partial outlet opening G51, G52, the downwardly directed outflow from the first partial outlet opening G51 and the upwardly directed outflow from the second partial outlet opening G52 are combined, so that the opposing flow directions are balanced and a common, largely straight outflowing airflow W3, directed along the longitudinal axis X1, exits from the air outlet L into the interior of a vehicle.

[0067] During the transition of the air outlet L to the operating state according to Fig. 4, i.e., during the rotation of the air guide element E, the light element D is controlled depending on the direction of rotation of the air guide element E. In the advantageous air outlet L shown in the figures, designed according to the invention, the light element D is advantageously controlled during the rotation of the air guide element E depending on the direction of rotation of the air guide element E such that the light element D emits a vertical light animation. This is demonstrated by the Fig. 6 and Fig. 7 will be described in more detail. Fig. Figure 4 shows the final state of this control process. In this final state, a central LED D2 of the column-shaped arrangement of three stacked LEDs of the light element D is activated. The light D3 emitted by the light element D is symbolically indicated in the figure by three lines. A person observing the light element can deduce from the activation of the central LED of the light element D that the air guide element E is in a rotational position in which a straight outflow from the air outlet L occurs.

[0068] By deflecting the air guide element E from the in Fig. In the central position shown in 4, in the direction of one of the air channels towards the first or second partial outlet opening, it is possible to continuously change the proportions of the airflow directed to the first or second partial outlet opening, so that when the partial airflows are combined or superimposed as described, the direction of the airflow released from the air outlet into the interior of a vehicle can be continuously changed.

[0069] In Fig. Figure 5 shows the advantageous air outlet L, designed according to the invention, in a frontal top view of the front frame F. The housing G is arranged behind the front frame F in perspective. The front surface S11 of the front strip S1 is visible in the passage opening F1, which has an outline largely corresponding to the outlet opening G5 behind it. The light element D with the carrier board D1 and the LEDs D2 mounted thereon is arranged on this surface. The diffuser D4 and the light barrier D5 are shown in Fig. 5 and in the Fig. Figures 6 to 14 are not shown for better visibility of the arrangements.

[0070] From this illustration, it is particularly evident that an air outlet designed according to the invention has a light element D with a two-dimensional row- and column-shaped arrangement of at least two light-emitting diodes (LEDs) arranged one above the other and at least two side by side. The advantageous air outlet L shown in the figures has a two-dimensional row- and column-shaped arrangement, which is particularly advantageously formed by a superposition of the eleven adjacent vertical columns Dv1, Dv2, Dv3, Dv4, Dv5, Dv6, Dv7, Dv8, Dv9, Dv10, Dv11 and three horizontal rows Dh1, Dh2, Dh3 of LEDs. This advantageously forms a rectangular pattern of 33 LEDs, which can also be referred to as an "11 x 3 LED matrix".

[0071] The LEDs of this LED matrix of the light element D can be controlled individually or in groups in a variety of ways, in particular according to the invention depending on the rotational position of the air guide element. In the following Fig. Figures 6 to 14 show exemplary control configurations of the LEDs in the LED matrix of light element D. Only the carrier board D1 with the LEDs D2 of light element D is shown in each case. Activated LEDs D2, which emit light, are symbolically represented with a black fill, and the light emitted by the LEDs D3 is symbolically represented with short lines.

[0072] According to the presentation of Fig. 6 and Fig. 7. During a rotation of the air guide element E towards one of the partial outlet openings, the light element D is controlled such that superimposed light-emitting diodes D2 of the two-dimensional row and column arrangement Dv1, Dv2, Dv3, Dv4, Dv5, Dv6, Dv7, Dv8, Dv9, Dv10, Dv11; Dh1, Dh2, Dh3 individually or in groups emit a light D3, which is displayed progressively in the direction of the other partial outlet opening by the superimposed light-emitting diodes D2 in the manner of a light animation. Such exemplary animations are shown in Fig. 6 and Fig. 7 shown.

[0073] In Fig. Figure 6 shows an advantageous first light animation A1. In a first animation step A11, the lower LEDs D2 of each of the eleven columns consisting of LEDs Dv1, Dv2, Dv3, Dv4, Dv5, Dv6, Dv7, Dv8, Dv9, Dv10, Dv11 are activated; in a second animation step A12, the middle LEDs of each of the eleven columns consisting of LEDs Dv1, Dv2, Dv3, Dv4, Dv5, Dv6, Dv7, Dv8, Dv9, Dv10, Dv11 are activated; and in a third animation step A13, the upper LEDs of each of the eleven columns consisting of LEDs Dv1, Dv2, Dv3, Dv4, Dv5, Dv6, Dv7, Dv8, Dv9, Dv10, Dv11 are activated. In this exemplary light animation, the LEDs of the individual columns are switched in the same way, resulting in a progressive light animation that gives a person the impression of a vertically moving line of light.According to the invention, such a light animation by the two-dimensional arrangement of LEDs in the direction of the upper partial outlet opening takes place during a rotation of the air guide element E in the direction of the lower partial outlet opening, so that a person can recognize that the total airflow flowing out of the air outlet L after completion of the adjustment will be directed upwards due to the shape of the housing and front panel.

[0074] In Fig. Figure 7 shows an advantageous second light animation A2, which runs in the opposite direction to the first light animation A1. In a first animation step A21, the upper LEDs D2 of each of the eleven columns consisting of LEDs Dv1, Dv2, Dv3, Dv4, Dv5, Dv6, Dv7, Dv8, Dv9, Dv10, Dv11 are activated; in a second animation step A22, the middle LEDs of each of the eleven columns consisting of LEDs Dv1, Dv2, Dv3, Dv4, Dv5, Dv6, Dv7, Dv8, Dv9, Dv10, Dv11 are activated; and in a third animation step A23, the lower LEDs of each of the eleven columns consisting of LEDs Dv1, Dv2, Dv3, Dv4, Dv5, Dv6, Dv7, Dv8, Dv9, Dv10, Dv11 are activated. In this exemplary light animation, the LEDs of the individual columns are switched simultaneously, resulting in a progressive light animation that gives a person the impression of a vertically downward moving line of light.According to the invention, such a light animation by the two-dimensional arrangement of LEDs in the direction of the lower partial outlet opening takes place during a rotation of the air guide element E in the direction of the upper partial outlet opening, so that a person can recognize that the total airflow flowing out of the air outlet L after completion of the adjustment will be directed downwards due to the shape of the housing and front panel.

[0075] In the Fig. 6 and Fig. In the animations shown in Figure 7, the LEDs within the respective columns (LEDs Dv1, Dv2, Dv3, Dv4, Dv5, Dv6, Dv7, Dv8, Dv9, Dv10, Dv11) are advantageously controlled individually in succession. In further advantageous embodiments of the invention, the LEDs within a column can also be controlled in groups, so that during an animation, individual LEDs of a column are not activated alternately, but rather in groups of several LEDs, e.g., in pairs.

[0076] According to the presentation of Fig. 8 and Fig. 9. The LEDs of the three rows of LEDs Dh1, Dh2, Dh3 of the light element are controlled during a rotation of at least one air guide flap such that adjacent light-emitting diodes D2 of the two-dimensional row- and column-shaped arrangement Dv1, Dv2, Dv3, Dv4, Dv5, Dv6, Dv7, Dv8, Dv9, Dv10, Dv11; Dh1, Dh2, Dh3 individually or in groups emit a light D3, which is displayed progressively in the direction of the position of the at least one air guide flap by the adjacent light-emitting diodes D2 in the manner of a light animation. Such exemplary animations are shown in Fig. 8 and Fig. 9 shown.

[0077] In Fig. Figure 8 shows a favorable third light animation, A3. In the first animation step, A31, the fourth-to-last LEDs of each of the three rows of LEDs Dh1, Dh2, Dh3 are activated. In the second animation step, A32, the third-to-last LEDs of each of the three rows of LEDs Dh1, Dh2, Dh3 are activated. In the third animation step, A33, the penultimate LEDs of each of the three rows of LEDs Dh1, Dh2, Dh3 are activated. In the fourth animation step, A34, the last LEDs of each of the three rows of LEDs Dh1, Dh2, Dh3 are activated. In this example light animation, the outermost LEDs of each row are thus switched simultaneously, resulting in a progressive light animation that gives a person the impression of a horizontally moving slit of light to the right.Such a light animation is advantageously performed during a rotation of the air guide flaps K to the right, so that the air outlet then emits air directed to the right.

[0078] In Fig. Figure 9 shows an advantageous fourth light animation A4. In the first animation step A41, the fourth LEDs of each of the three rows of LEDs Dh1, Dh2, Dh3 are activated; in the second animation step A42, the third LEDs of each of the three rows of LEDs Dh1, Dh2, Dh3 are activated; in the third animation step A43, the second LEDs of each of the three rows of LEDs Dh1, Dh2, Dh3 are activated; and in the fourth animation step A44, the first LEDs of each of the three rows of LEDs Dh1, Dh2, Dh3 are activated. In this example light animation, the outermost LEDs of each row are thus switched simultaneously, resulting in a progressive light animation that gives a person the impression of a horizontally moving slit of light to the left.Such a light animation is advantageously performed during a rotation of the air guide flaps K to the left, so that the air outlet then emits air directed to the left.

[0079] In the Fig. 8 and Fig. In the animations shown in Figure 9, individual LEDs within each row of LEDs Dh1, Dh2, Dh3 are advantageously controlled individually in succession. In further advantageous embodiments of the invention, the LEDs within a row can also be controlled in groups, so that during an animation, individual LEDs of a row are not activated alternately, but rather in groups of several LEDs, e.g., in pairs.

[0080] According to the presentation of Fig. 10, Fig. 11, Fig. 12 and Fig. 13 The LEDs of the two-dimensional arrangement consisting of eleven columns of LEDs Dv1, Dv2, Dv3, Dv4, Dv5, Dv6, Dv7, Dv8, Dv9, Dv10, Dv11 and three rows of LEDs Dh1, Dh2, Dh3 are advantageously controlled individually or in groups in such a progressive manner that the light element D emits a light emission D3 during simultaneous rotation of the air guide element in the direction of one of the partial discharge openings and rotation of the air guide flaps, which is progressively displayed in the manner of a light animation in the direction of the other partial discharge opening and in the direction of the rotation of the air guide flaps by the LEDs of the two-dimensional arrangement consisting of eleven columns of LEDs Dv1, Dv2, Dv3, Dv4, Dv5, Dv6, Dv7, Dv8, Dv9, Dv10, Dv11 and three rows of LEDs Dh1, Dh2, Dh3.

[0081] In Fig. Figure 10 shows an advantageous fifth light animation A5. In a first animation step A51, the fourth-to-last and third-to-last LEDs D2 of the third row of LEDs Dh3 are activated, i.e., the lower LEDs of the eighth and ninth columns of LEDs Dv8 and Dv9, respectively. In a second animation step A52, the third-to-last and second-to-last LEDs D2 of the second row of LEDs Dh2 are activated, i.e., the middle LEDs of the ninth and tenth columns of LEDs Dv9 and Dv10, respectively. In a third animation step A53, the second-to-last LED D2 of the first row of LEDs Dh1 is activated, i.e., the upper LED of the tenth column of LEDs Dv10. The last LEDs of the first and second rows of LEDs Dh1 and Dh2, i.e., the upper and middle LEDs of the eleventh column of LEDs Dv11, are also activated. In this example light animation, the outermost LEDs of the rows are thus activated.The LEDs in the outer slits are switched to the right and ascending slit by slit, creating a progressive light animation that gives a person the impression of the airflow continuing diagonally upwards and to the right. This light animation is advantageously achieved when the air guide element is rotated towards the lower partial outlet opening and the air guide flaps K are rotated to the right, so that a person can recognize that the total airflow exiting the air outlet L after the adjustment is complete will be directed upwards and to the right.

[0082] In Fig. Figure 11 shows a favorable sixth light animation A6. In a first animation step A61, the third and fourth LEDs D2 of the third row of LEDs Dh3, i.e., the lower LEDs of the third and fourth columns of LEDs Dv3 and Dv4 respectively, are activated. In a second animation step A62, the second and third LEDs D2 of the second row of LEDs Dh2, i.e., the middle LEDs of the second and third columns of LEDs Dv2 and Dv3, are activated. In a third animation step A63, the second LED D2 of the first row of LEDs Dh1, i.e., the upper LED of the second column of LEDs Dv2, and the first LED of the first and second rows of LEDs Dh1 and Dh2, i.e., the upper and middle LEDs of the first column of LEDs Dv1, are activated. In this example light animation, the outer LEDs of the rows, or...The LEDs in the outer slits are switched to the left and ascending slit by slit, creating a progressive light animation that gives a person the impression of the airflow continuing diagonally upwards and diagonally to the left. This light animation is advantageously achieved during rotation of the air guide element towards the lower partial outlet opening and rotation of the air guide flaps K to the left, so that a person can recognize that the total airflow exiting the air outlet L after the adjustment is complete will be directed upwards and to the left.

[0083] In Fig. Figure 12 shows an advantageous seventh light animation A7. In a first animation step A71, the fourth-to-last and third-to-last LEDs D2 of the first row of LEDs Dh1 are activated, i.e., the top LEDs of the eighth and ninth columns of LEDs Dv8 and Dv9, respectively. In a second animation step A72, the third-to-last and second-to-last LEDs D2 of the second row of LEDs Dh2 are activated, i.e., the middle LEDs of the ninth and tenth columns of LEDs Dv9 and Dv10, respectively. In a third animation step A73, the second-to-last LED D2 of the third row of LEDs Dh3 is activated, i.e., the bottom LED of the tenth column of LEDs Dv10. The last LEDs of the second and third rows of LEDs Dh2 and Dh3, i.e., the middle and bottom LEDs of the eleventh column of LEDs Dv11, are also activated. In this example light animation, the outermost LEDs of the rows are thus activated.The LEDs in the outer slits are switched to the right, descending slit by slit, creating a progressive light animation that gives a person the impression of the airflow continuing diagonally downwards and to the right. This light animation is advantageously achieved when the air guide element is rotated towards the upper partial outlet opening and the air guide flaps K are rotated to the right, so that a person can recognize that the total airflow exiting the air outlet L after the adjustment is complete will be directed downwards and to the right.

[0084] In Fig. Figure 13 shows a favorable eighth light animation A8. In a first animation step A81, the third and fourth LEDs D2 of the first row of LEDs Dh1, i.e., the top LEDs of the third and fourth columns of LEDs Dv3 and Dv4 respectively, are activated. In a second animation step A82, the second and third LEDs D2 of the second row of LEDs Dh2, i.e., the middle LEDs of the second and third columns of LEDs Dv2 and Dv3, are activated. In a third animation step A83, the second LED D2 of the third row of LEDs Dh3, i.e., the bottom LED of the second column of LEDs Dv2, and the first LEDs of the second and third rows of LEDs Dh2 and Dh3, i.e., the middle and bottom LEDs of the first column of LEDs Dv1, are activated. In this example light animation, the outer LEDs of the rows, or...The LEDs in the outer slits are switched to the left and in a downward, descending direction, creating a progressive light animation that gives a person the impression of the airflow continuing diagonally downwards and diagonally to the left. This light animation is advantageously achieved when the air guide element is rotated towards the upper partial outlet opening and the air guide flaps K are rotated to the left, so that a person can recognize that the total airflow exiting the air outlet L after the adjustment is complete will be directed downwards and to the left.

[0085] According to the presentation of Fig. 14 The light element D is controlled during oscillating rotations of the air guide element and air guide flap in such a way that light-emitting diodes D2 of the two-dimensional row and column arrangement Dv1, Dv2, Dv3, Dv4, Dv5, Dv6, Dv7, Dv8, Dv9, Dv10, Dv11; Dh1, Dh2, Dh3 individually or in groups emit a light emission D3, which is progressively displayed in the manner of a light animation of a wave by the light-emitting diodes D2 arranged next to and above each other.

[0086] In Fig. Figure 14 shows an advantageous ninth light animation A9 with such an exemplary wave-like light animation. In a first animation step A91, a first zero state is shown in which all LEDs of the second row of LEDs Dh2 are activated. In a second animation step A92, a subsequent first oscillation state is shown in which, of the third row of LEDs Dh3, the first three and the last three LEDs D2 are activated; of the second row of LEDs Dh2, the third, fourth, fifth, seventh, eighth, and ninth LEDs D2 are activated; and of the first row of LEDs Dh1, the middle three LEDs are activated. The oscillation state shown in this animation step thus exhibits a sub-oscillation at the outer ends of the light element and a super-oscillation in the center of the light element.In a third animation step, A93, a subsequent second zero state is depicted, in which all LEDs of the second row of LEDs Dh2 are again activated. In a fourth animation step, A93, a subsequent second oscillation state is depicted, in which, from the first row of LEDs Dh1, the first three and the last three LEDs D2 are activated; from the second row of LEDs Dh2, the third, fourth, fifth, seventh, eighth, and ninth LEDs D2 are activated; and from the third row of LEDs Dh3, the middle three LEDs are activated. The ninth light animation, A9, is thus controlled in the manner of a transverse wave, in which the LEDs within the columns of LEDs Dv1, Dv2, Dv3, Dv4, Dv5, Dv6, Dv7, Dv8, Dv9, Dv10, Dv11 "oscillate" in a vertical direction. However, such a wave-like light animation can also be controlled in the manner of a longitudinal wave, in which the LEDs within the rows of LEDs Dh1, Dh2, Dh3 "oscillate".

[0087] The benefits in the Fig. The light animations shown in sections 6 to 14 are only displayed during the rotation of the air guide element and / or air guide flaps by the light element. No animations are displayed during the stationary operation of an air outlet L to avoid any potential disturbance to occupants inside a vehicle.

[0088] According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, not shown separately in the figures, the speed of the components in the Fig. The light animations shown in 6 to 14 demonstrate that the light emission from the light element is controlled depending on the speed of the airflow.

[0089] According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, not shown separately in the figures, the light element is controlled such that the intensity of the emitted light is increased during rotation of the air guide element and / or air guide flap. This further improves the visibility of the light element to a person during the rotation of the air guide element. After the rotation of the air guide element is complete, the intensity of the emitted light can be reduced, i.e., dimmed, advantageously even to the point of near or total deactivation of the light element. Similarly, the intensity of the emitted light can also be continuously increased, i.e., dimmed, again when a rotation of the air guide element is initiated. Reference symbol list L air vent G Housing G1 Feed opening G2 feed channel G3 Inlet opening G4 air chamber G5 outlet G51 first partial exhaust opening G52 second partial exhaust opening E cylindrical air guide element E1 circular arc-shaped mantle segment E2 beveled air guide surface S Flow profile S1 front panel S11 front surface S2, S3 first, second sidebar K Air guide flaps K1, K2 first, second air guide flap K3, K4 first, second pivot pin F Front frame F1 through-hole D light element D1 carrier board D2 Light-emitting diode (LED) D3 emitted light D4 diffuser D5 light barrier Dh1 first row of LEDs Dh2 second row of LEDs Dh3 third row of LEDs Dv1 first column of LEDs Dv2 second column of LEDs Dv3 third column of LEDs Dv4 fourth column of LEDs Dv5 fifth column of LEDs Dv6 sixth column of LEDs Dv7 seventh column of LEDs Dv8 eighth column of LEDs Dv9 ninth column of LEDs Dv10 tenth column of LEDs Dv11 eleventh column of LEDs X1 Longitudinal axis X2 transverse axis X3, X4 first, second pivot axis X5 cutting axis W1 supplied airflow W2 deflected airflow W3 outgoing airflow A1 first light animation A11, A12, A13 first, second, third animation step A2 second light animation A21, A22, A23 first, second, third animation step A3 third light animation A31, A32, A33, A34 first, second, third, fourth animation step A4 fourth light animation A41, A42, A43, A44 first, second, third, fourth animation step A5 fifth light animation A51, A52, A53 first, second, third animation step A6 sixth light animation A61, A62, A63 first, second, third animation step A7 seventh light animation A71, A72, A73 first, second, third animation step A8 eighth light animation A81, A82, A83 first, second, third animation step A9 ninth light animation A91, A92, A93, A94 first, second, third, fourth animation step QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents cited by the applicant was automatically generated and is included solely for the reader's convenience. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA accepts no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] EP 3 702 185 A1

[0004] DE 10 2019 126 102 A1

[0006] DE 10 2018 219 702 A1

[0007] DE 10 2019 105 121 A1

[0009]

Claims

[1] Air outlet (L), with - a housing (G) with an inlet opening (G3) and an outlet opening (G5) for an airflow (W1, W2, W3), - a front panel (S1) that divides the outlet opening (G5) into two partial outlet openings (G51, G52), - an air guide element (E) that - is rotatably arranged in the housing (G) between the inlet opening (G3) and the front panel (S1) about a rotational axis (X2), - is cylindrical in shape with at least one axially extending chamfered air guide surface (E2), - in a first rotation position, directs the airflow (W1, W2, W3) to the first partial outlet opening (G51) and thereby closes the second partial outlet opening (G52), - in a second rotation position, directs the airflow (W1, W2, W3) to the second partial outlet opening (G52) and thereby closes the first partial outlet opening (G51), and - in a third rotation position, the inlet opening (G3) is closed, and - a light element (D) that - on the front panel (S1) between the partial outlet openings (G51, G52) is arranged such that its primary light emission (D3) is directed outwards away from the housing (G), and - is controlled during a rotation of the air guide element (E) depending on the direction of rotation of the air guide element (E). [2] Air outlet (L) according to claim 1, with a diffusing disc (D4) in front of the light element (D). [3] Air outlet (L) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the light element (D) has a two-dimensional row- and column-shaped arrangement (Dv1, Dv2, Dv3, Dv4, Dv5, Dv6, Dv7, Dv8, Dv9, Dv10, Dv11; Dh1, Dh2, Dh3) of at least two light-emitting diodes (LEDs) (D2) arranged one above the other and at least two next to each other. [4] Air outlet (L) according to claim 3, wherein The light element (D) between light-emitting diodes (LED) (D2) has a light barrier (D5). [5] Air outlet (L) according to claim 3 or 4, wherein The light element (D) is controlled during a rotation of the air guide element (E) in the direction of one of the partial outlet openings (G51, G52) such that superimposed light-emitting diodes (LEDs) (D2) of the two-dimensional row and column arrangement (Dv1, Dv2, Dv3, Dv4, Dv5, Dv6, Dv7, Dv8, Dv9, Dv10, Dv11; Dh1, Dh2, Dh3) emit light individually or in groups, which is progressively displayed in the manner of a light animation in the direction of the other partial outlet opening (G51, G52) by the superimposed light-emitting diodes (LEDs) (D2). [6] Air outlet (L) according to any one of the preceding claims 3 to 5, comprising at least one air guide flap (K) in the housing (G) in front of the outlet opening (G5), which is rotatable transversely to the axis of rotation (X2) of the air guide element (E). [7] Air outlet (L) according to claim 6, wherein the light element (D) is controlled in such a way that the strength of the emitted light emission (D3) is increased during a rotation of at least one air guide flap (K). [8] Air outlet (L) according to claim 6 or 7, wherein the light element (D) is controlled during a rotation of at least one air guide flap (K) such that adjacent light-emitting diodes (LEDs) (D2) of the two-dimensional row and column arrangement (Dv1, Dv2, Dv3, Dv4, Dv5, Dv6, Dv7, Dv8, Dv9, Dv10, Dv11; Dh1, Dh2, Dh3) individually or in groups emit a light emission (D3) which is progressively displayed in the direction of the position of the at least one air guide flap (K) by the adjacent light-emitting diodes (LEDs) (D2). [9] Air outlet (L) according to any one of the preceding claims 6 to 8, wherein The light element (D) is controlled during oscillating rotations of the air guide element (E) and air guide flap (K) such that light-emitting diodes (LED) (D2) of the two-dimensional row and column arrangement (Dv1, Dv2, Dv3, Dv4, Dv5, Dv6, Dv7, Dv8, Dv9, Dv10, Dv11; Dh1, Dh2, Dh3) individually or in groups emit a light emission (D3) which is progressively displayed in the manner of a light animation of a wave by the light-emitting diodes (LED) (D2) arranged next to and above each other. [10] Air outlet (L) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein The speed of light animations is controlled by the light emission (D3) emitted by the light element (D) as a function of the speed of the airflow (W1, W2, W3). [11] Air outlet (L) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the light element (D) is controlled in such a way that the strength of the emitted light emission (D3) is increased during a rotation of the air guide element (E).

Images