Heating device

Abstract

Heating device (20) with: a planar heating section (22) which is configured to generate heat when it is supplied with energy; a detection circuit (30) comprising a plurality of planar electrodes (241, 242) arranged on a surface side of the heating section (22), wherein the detection circuit (30) is configured to detect an approach of an object to, or contact of, an object with the plurality of electrodes (241, 242) based on a change in a capacitance between the plurality of electrodes (241, 242); and a control device (40) which is configured to control an amount of energy supply to the heating section (22) based on a detection result of the detection circuit (30), wherein the heating section (22) and the plurality of electrodes (241, 242) are arranged parallel to each other, the heating device (20) is configured to have a heating region in which the heating section (22) is present and a non-heating region in which the heating section (22) is not present when the plurality of electrodes (241, 242) and the heating section (22) are projected in a direction perpendicular to the plurality of electrodes (241, 242) and the heating section (22), and The plurality of electrodes (241, 242) includes a heat propagation promotion section (2412 to 2417, 2422 to 2427) which is provided to be included at least in the non-heating region, wherein the heat propagation promotion section (2412 to 2417, 2422 to 2427) is configured to promote the propagation of the heat transferred from the heating section (22) in a planar direction of the plurality of electrodes (241, 242).

Description

AREA OF INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to a heat generation device or heating device. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] This type of heat-generating or heating device is described in patent publication JP 2014-190674A. The heating device comprises a main body containing a heating section that generates heat when supplied with energy, and a sensing section comprising a plurality of conductive sections. The sensing section detects the approach or contact of an object in the vicinity of the main body based on a change in the electric field formed around the plurality of conductive sections. The heating device further comprises a control device that suppresses the energy supply to the heating section when the object in the vicinity of the main body is detected by the sensing section. Thus, if the approach or contact of the object continues, the user is prevented from experiencing thermal discomfort.

[0003] The device is configured such that the heating elements are distributed and arranged in a multitude of sections of the heating device, and an element with a thermal conductivity lower than that of the heating element is positioned around each heating element to suppress heat transfer in the plane of the heating elements. With this configuration, when the object comes into contact with the main body, the temperature of the contact area of ​​the main body is rapidly reduced.

[0004] Document WO 2016 / 117 376 A1 describes a heating device equipped with a heat generation unit for generating heat through energy input and a distance sensing unit for detecting the distance between the heat generation unit and an object surrounding the heat generation unit. Furthermore, the heating device is equipped with power supply control units for controlling the power supply to the heat generation unit, so that the heating temperature decreases accordingly when the distance to the object, as detected by the distance sensing unit, becomes smaller.

[0005] Publication JP 2014-944 A describes a radiant heating device comprising several radiant heating elements and several heat-generating elements. Each radiant heating element is in the form of a thin plate. The multiple radiant heating elements are arranged in a dispersed pattern. A low-conductivity element is provided between two adjacent radiant heating elements. This low-conductivity element is made of a resin material and primarily forms a substrate. The low-conductivity element surrounds the entire perimeter of the radiant heating elements to thermally separate them. The radiant heating elements emit the heat generated by the heat-generating elements. When a body comes into contact with a surface of the device, the heat from a specific heat-generating element located directly beneath the body is transferred to the body.Furthermore, the part with low thermal conductivity suppresses heat transfer from one periphery of the specific heat dissipation part to the specific heat dissipation part.

[0006] German patent application DE 11 2016 003 888 T5 describes a heating device comprising a heating unit that emits radiant heat generated by a heat generation unit to produce heat when energized. The heating device includes a contact detection unit with a contact detection area designed to superimpose on the heating unit to detect contact by an object. The heating device also includes a determination unit that, when contact by the object is detected by the contact detection unit at the contact detection area, determines whether the contact occurred for a predefined switching operation. Finally, the heating device includes a control unit.The control unit stops the power supply to the heat generation unit when the detection unit determines that the contact made by the object in the contact detection area is not a contact that resulted from the specified switching operation. The control unit toggles between starting and stopping the power supply to the heat generation unit when the detection unit determines that the contact made by the object in the contact detection area is a contact that resulted from the switching operation.

[0007] German patent application DE 11 2016 001 738 T5 describes a heater device comprising: a distance setting section that specifies a distance between a scanning subject, i.e., an occupant, and a heater main body as a scanned distance; and a movement mechanism that moves the heater main body. The heater device further comprises a heater position control section that controls the movement mechanism so that the distance between the scanning subject, i.e., the occupant, and the heater main body is set to a target distance based on the scanned distance specified by the distance setting section. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0008] According to the investigations carried out by the inventors, the device described in the aforementioned patent publication JP 2014 - 190 674 A does not sufficiently dissipate and transfer the heat generated by the heating elements in a plane. Consequently, the temperature distribution on the heating surface becomes uneven, thus failing to provide the user with a stable sensation of warmth.

[0009] The present disclosure is intended to provide the user with a more stable sensation of warmth and to prevent the user from experiencing discomfort with regard to heat as the approach or contact of an object continues.

[0010] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the heating device comprises: a planar heating section configured to generate heat when supplied with energy; a sensing circuit having a plurality of planar electrodes arranged on a surface side of the heating section and configured to detect an approach to or contact of an object with the plurality of electrodes based on a change in capacitance between the plurality of electrodes; and a control device configured to control the amount of energy supplied to the heating section based on a detection result of the sensing circuit. The heating section and the plurality of electrodes are arranged parallel to each other.The heating device is configured to have a heating region, in which the heating section is present, and a non-heating region, in which the heating section is not present, when the plurality of electrodes and the heating section are projected in a direction perpendicular to the plurality of electrodes and the heating section. Furthermore, the plurality of electrodes includes a heat propagation promotion section configured to promote heat propagation, whereby heat transferred by the heating section is spread in the plane of the plurality of electrodes.

[0011] With this configuration, the multitude of electrodes includes the heat distribution promotion section, which is configured to be included in at least the non-heating region and promotes heat distribution in which heat transferred from the heating section is spread in the plane across the multitude of electrodes. Consequently, the heating device provides the user with a more stable sensation of warmth, preventing the user from experiencing thermal discomfort as the object continues to approach or be in contact with it.

[0012] It should be noted that a reference numeral with a bracket, attached to a particular component and the like, indicates an example of the correspondence relationship between the component and a specific component and the like, as described in the embodiment described below. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING Fig. Figure 1 shows a diagram illustrating a state in which a heating device according to a first embodiment is attached to a vehicle. Fig. Figure 2 shows a front view of the heating device according to the first embodiment. Fig. Figure 2B shows a representation of a multitude of electrodes through an insulating layer of the heating device from an occupant's side. Fig. Figure 2C shows a representation of heating sections through the insulating layer, the multitude of electrodes and an insulating substrate of the heating device from an occupant's side. Fig. Figure 3 shows a cross-sectional view along line III-III in Fig. 2 is taken from. Fig. Figure 4 shows an enlarged view showing the heating sections and electrodes of the heating device according to the first embodiment. Fig. Figure 5 shows a cross-sectional view along line VV in Fig. 4 is taken from. Fig. Figure 6 shows a cross-sectional view along line VI-VI in Fig. 4 is taken from. Fig. Figure 7 shows a diagram to explain an electric field formed between a transmitting electrode and a receiving electrode. Fig. Figure 8 shows a block diagram of the heating device according to the first embodiment. Fig. Figure 9 shows a flowchart of a control device in the heating device according to the first embodiment. Fig. Figure 10 shows a front view of a heating device according to a second embodiment, wherein heating sections and electrodes are shown by hatching. Fig. Figure 11 shows a front view of a heating device according to a third embodiment, wherein heating sections and electrodes are shown by hatching. Fig. Figure 12 shows a front view of a heating device according to a fourth embodiment, wherein heating sections and electrodes are shown by hatching. Fig. Figure 13 shows a front view of a heating device according to a fifth embodiment, wherein heating sections and electrodes are shown by hatching. Fig. Figure 14 shows a front view of the heating device according to a sixth embodiment. Fig. Figure 15 shows a representation of a multitude of electrodes through an insulating layer of the heating device from an occupant's side. Fig. Figure 16 shows a representation of a heating section through the insulating layer, the plurality of electrodes and an insulating substrate of the heating device from an occupant's side. DESCRIPTION OF THE EXAMPLES OF EXECUTION

[0013] Exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure are described below with reference to the drawing. In the respective exemplary embodiments described below, the same or equivalent parts are designated by the same reference numerals within the drawing. (First embodiment)

[0014] A heat-generating device or heating device according to a first embodiment is described with reference to the Fig. 1, Fig. 2, Fig. 3, Fig. 4, Fig. 5, Fig. 6, Fig. 7, Fig. 8 to Fig. 9 described. Fig. In the first embodiment, a heating device 20 is installed in the cabin of a moving body, such as a road vehicle. The heating device 20 forms part of an air heating system for the cabin. The heating device 20 is an electric heating device that generates heat by being supplied with electrical power from a power source, such as a battery or generator, located on the moving body. The heating device 20 is designed in the form of a thin plate. The heating device 20 generates heat when it is supplied with electrical power. The heating device 20 emits radiant heat primarily in a direction perpendicular to an associated surface to heat an object positioned in the same direction perpendicular to that surface.

[0015] A seat 11, in which an occupant 12 sits, is installed in the cabin. The heating device 20 is installed in the cabin to radiate heat towards the feet of the occupant 12. The heating device 20 can be used as a device that causes the occupant 12 to feel warm quickly, for example, immediately after another air heating device is started. The heating device 20 is installed on a wall surface of the interior of the cabin. The heating device 20 is installed to face the occupant 12 in a presumed normal posture. For example, the heating device 20 can be installed on a lower surface of a steering column cover 15, which is provided to cover a steering column 14 for holding a steering wheel 13, to face the occupant 12.Furthermore, the heating device 20 can be installed in a dashboard 16 which is located under the steering column cover 15 to face the occupant 12.

[0016] Next, the heating device 20 is described in accordance with the first embodiment, with reference to the Fig. 2, Fig. 3, Fig. 4, Fig. 5, Fig. 6, Fig. 7 to Fig. 8 described. In the Fig. 2 and Fig. 3. The heating device 20 extends along the XY plane, which is defined by the X-axis and the Y-axis. The heating device 20 has a thickness in the direction of the Z-axis. The heating device 20 is designed in a substantially rectangular, thin plate shape.

[0017] The heating device 20 comprises an insulating layer 21, a plurality of heating sections 22, an insulating substrate 23, electrodes 241 and 242, and an insulating layer 25. The heating sections 22, the insulating substrate 23, the electrodes 241 and 242, and the insulating layer 25 form a heat-generating main body or heating main body 200. The heating device 20 is also referred to as a planar heat-generating device or a planar heating device that primarily emits radiant heat in the direction perpendicular to an associated surface.

[0018] The heating sections 22 each form a rectangle extending in the direction of the X-axis, arranged side by side in the direction of the Y-axis. The individual heating sections 22 are connected to each other via a heating section electrode 26. The plurality of heating sections 22 is arranged regularly to cover a predetermined area on the XY plane in the drawing.

[0019] Each of the heating sections 22 is connected to the heating section electrode 26. Each heating section 22 generates heat when supplied with electrical power via the heating section electrode 26. The respective heating sections 22 are arranged on one surface side of the insulating substrate 23, i.e., on the side opposite the occupant side.

[0020] Each heating element 22 is made of a material with low electrical resistance. Each heating element 22 can be made of a metal. The material of each heating element 22 is selected from a material with a thermal conductivity lower than that of copper. For example, the heating element 22 can be made using a metal such as copper, a copper-tin alloy, silver, tin, stainless steel, nickel, or nickel-chromium, or an alloy containing one or more of these metals.

[0021] The heating section 22 is heated to a predetermined radiant temperature and can thereby emit radiant heat to cause the occupant 12, i.e., a person, to feel warmth. Each heating section 22 is made of a material that has high thermal conductivity.

[0022] Each heating section electrode 26 forms a rectangular shape extending in the direction of the X-axis. The heating section electrodes 26 are arranged at both ends of the plurality of heating sections 22 in the direction of the Y-axis. Each heating section electrode 26 is made of a material that has a low electrical resistance.

[0023] The insulating layer 21, which has a lower thermal conductivity than that of the heating section 22, is arranged on one surface side of the insulating substrate 23, i.e., on the side opposite the occupant side. The insulating layer 21 is arranged to cover the heating sections 22 from one surface side of the insulating substrate 23. The insulating layer 21 has high insulating properties and is made, for example, of a film-like polyimide layer, an insulating resin or plastic, or the like.

[0024] The heating sections 22 each have a thin-film form and are distributed and arranged on one surface side of the insulating substrate 21. Consequently, according to the present embodiment, the heating section 22 has a lower heat capacity compared to a heating layer formed in a thick plate form.

[0025] In this way, the heating layer according to the present embodiment has a low heat capacity and a high thermal resistance, and it has the feature that, when it comes into contact with an object, the transfer of heat in the plane direction of the heating section 22 is suppressed, thus rapidly reducing the temperature of a contact part of the heating layer. The thickness of each of the plurality of heating sections 22 is preferably 50 micrometers or less, and further preferably 20 micrometers or less, in order to sufficiently reduce the transfer of heat in the plane direction of the heating layer.

[0026] The insulating substrate 23 is made of a resin or plastic material that provides excellent electrical insulating properties and withstands high temperatures. Specifically, the insulating substrate 23 is made of a plastic or resin film. A plurality of electrode pairs 24 are arranged on one surface side of the insulating substrate 23. The insulating substrate 23 has a thermal conductivity that is lower than that of the heating section 22.

[0027] Each of the electrodes 241 and 242 forms a comb shape. Electrode 241 is a transfer electrode, while electrode 242 is a receiving electrode. Electrodes 241 and 242 are formed on the opposite surface of the insulating substrate 23. That is, electrodes 241 and 242 are formed on the occupant-side surface.

[0028] The heating device 20 according to the present embodiment has a heating region in which the heating section 22 is present and a non-heating region in which the heating section 22 is not present when a plurality of electrodes 241 and 242 and the heating section 22 are projected in the direction perpendicular to the plurality of electrodes 241 and 242 and the heating section 22.

[0029] Furthermore, when a plurality of electrodes 241 and 242 and the heating section 22 are projected in the direction perpendicular to the plurality of electrodes 241 and 242 and the heating section 22, the heating device 20 according to the present embodiment has overlapping regions Ov, where the heating section 22 and the electrode 241 or 242 overlap, and non-overlapping regions, where the heating section 22 and the electrodes 241 and 242 do not overlap.

[0030] As it is in Fig. As shown in Figure 4, electrode 241 comprises a linear section 2411 having a predetermined line width D1, and a wide section 2412 having a line width D2 that is wider than the predetermined line width D1. Electrode 242 comprises a linear section 2421 having a predetermined line width D1, and a wide section 2422 having a line width D2 that is wider than the predetermined line width D1.

[0031] The wide sections 2412 and 2422 are designed to be located in the non-heating region. These wide sections promote heat propagation, whereby heat transferred from the heating section 22 to the electrodes 241 and 242 is distributed in the plane of the electrodes 241 and 242.

[0032] As it is in the Fig. 4, Fig. 5 to Fig. As shown in Figure 6, in each of the overlapping regions Ov, the volume V2 of the electrode 241 or 242 contained in the overlapping region Ov is less than or equal to the volume V1 of the heating section 22 contained in the overlapping region Ov. Specifically, in each of the overlapping regions Ov, the thickness of the electrode 241 or 242 contained in the overlapping region Ov is less than or equal to the thickness of the heating section 22 contained in the overlapping region Ov. That is, in each of the overlapping regions Ov, the heat capacity of the electrode 241 or 242 contained in the overlapping region Ov is less than or equal to the heat capacity of the heating section 22 contained in the overlapping region Ov.

[0033] Each electrode 241 and electrode 242 is made of a material with high thermal conductivity. Specifically, each electrode 241 and electrode 242 is made of a conductive metal, such as copper. It should be noted that electrodes 241 and 242 are made of the same material. Each electrode 241 and 242 has a thermal conductivity that is higher than that of the insulating substrate 23.

[0034] Electrode 241 and electrode 242 are each arranged regularly to cover a predetermined area on the XY plane in the drawing. Each of electrodes 241 and 242 has the predetermined area on the XY plane in the drawing to generate the capacitance required for capacitance measurement.

[0035] When a predetermined voltage is applied between electrodes 241 and 242, an electric field is formed between electrodes 241 and 242, as described in Fig. Figure 4 shows that when an object, such as a finger, approaches the heating device in this electric field, the capacitance between electrodes 241 and 242 changes due to the electric field formed between them. By detecting changes in capacitance, the approach or contact of the object, such as a finger, with each electrode 24 is detected. The heating device 20, according to the present embodiment, detects the approach or contact of the object by means of a counter-capacitance system.

[0036] The insulating layer 25, which has a lower thermal conductivity than electrodes 241 and 242, is arranged on the opposite surface of the insulating substrate 23 containing electrodes 241 and 242. The insulating layer 25 is positioned to cover the electrodes 241 and 242 from the opposite surface of the insulating substrate 23. The insulating layer 25 exhibits high insulating properties and is, for example, made of a film-like polyimide layer, an insulating resin or plastic, or the like.

[0037] In the present heating device 20, the insulating layer 25, which has a thermal conductivity lower than that of each of the transfer electrodes 241 and the receiving electrodes 242, is arranged between each transfer electrode 241 and each receiving electrode 242, thereby increasing the thermal resistance in the plane direction of the heating layer 220. The transfer electrodes 241 and the receiving electrodes 242 each form a thin film and are distributed and arranged on the opposite surface side of the insulating substrate 23. Consequently, each of the transfer electrodes 241 and the receiving electrode 242 has a low heat capacity according to the present embodiment.

[0038] In this way, each transfer electrode 241 and each receiving electrode 242 according to the present embodiment have a low heat capacity and a high thermal resistance and have a feature that, when they come into contact with an object, the transfer of heat in the plane direction of the heating layer is suppressed, thus rapidly reducing the temperature of the contact part of the heating layer.

[0039] The thickness of each of the plurality of transfer electrodes 241 and the plurality of receiving electrodes 242 is preferably 50 micrometers or less. To reduce the heat transfer in the plane direction of the plurality of transfer electrodes 241 and the plurality of receiving electrodes 242, the thickness of each of the transfer electrodes 241 and the receiving electrodes 242 is preferably 20 micrometers or less.

[0040] Next, a block configuration of the heating device 20 according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 8 described. The heating device 20 comprises the heat generating main body or heating main body 200, a detection circuit 30 and a control device 40.

[0041] The main heating element 200 includes the electrodes 241 and 242 and the heating sections 22.

[0042] The detection circuit 30 detects an object in the vicinity of electrodes 241 or 242 by generating an electric field between electrodes 241 and 242. Specifically, the detection circuit 30 generates the electric field between electrodes 241 and 242 by applying a predetermined voltage between them, thereby detecting any change in the electric field between electrodes 241 and 242. In this way, the sensing circuit 30 detects the approach of an object present in the vicinity of the electrodes 241 or 242, or the contact of an object with the electrode 241 or 242 via the insulating layer 25. When the approach or contact of the object to or with the electrode 241 or 242 is detected, the sensing circuit 30 sends a signal indicating the approach or contact of the object to the control device 40.

[0043] The control device 40 is configured as a computer comprising a CPU, memory, and the like, the CPU performing various types of processing according to a program stored in the memory. The control device 40 performs processing to control the quantity or amount of electricity supplied to the heating section 22 based on the signal from the sensing circuit 30. The memory is a non-temporary physical storage medium.

[0044] Next, the processing carried out by the control unit 40 will be described with reference to Fig. 9 described. When the heating device 20 is switched on, the control unit 40 starts a power supply to the heating section 22 and simultaneously repeats the processing that is described in Fig. Figure 9 shows that each control step in the flowchart configures one of the different types of function implementation devices included in control device 40.

[0045] In step S100, the control unit 40 determines whether the approach or contact of an occupant is detected. Specifically, a pulsed voltage is applied to the transmission electrode 241 to create an electric field between the transmission electrode 241 and the receiving electrode 242. Accordingly, as described in Fig. Figure 7 shows the electric field formed between the transmission electrode 241 and the receiving electrode 242.

[0046] The detection circuit 30 determines whether an object is approaching or coming into contact with the plurality of electrodes 241 and 242 based on whether a voltage between the transmitting electrode 241 and the receiving electrode 242 is higher than or equal to a prescribed threshold value when a predetermined time has elapsed since the pulsed voltage fell in step S100. If it is determined that the object is approaching or coming into contact with the electrodes, the detection circuit 30 outputs a signal indicating the object's approach or contact to the control unit 40. The control unit 40 determines whether the object is detected based on the signal output by the detection circuit 30.

[0047] When the object approaches or comes into contact with at least one of the transmission electrodes 241 or the receiving electrodes 242, a portion of the electric field formed between the transmission electrodes 241 and 242 shifts towards one side of the fingertip, resulting in a reduced electric field that is detected by the receiving electrodes 242. The detection circuit 30 then sends the signal indicating the object's approach or contact to the control unit 40.

[0048] In this case, in the next step, control unit S102 stops the heat generation device or the heating device for control unit 40. Specifically, control unit 40 stops the energy supply to the heating section 22.

[0049] If a signal indicating the approach or contact of the object is not output by the detection circuit 30 to the control unit 40, the control unit 40 terminates the current processing without performing the processing according to step S102.

[0050] In the heating device according to the present embodiment, as soon as the occupant comes into contact with the heating surface, the temperature of a contact part of the heating surface decreases rapidly, even if the heating temperature is increased to a temperature (for example, about 100°C) that can provide the occupant with a warm sensation. Specifically, the temperature of the contact part decreases to 52°C or less, at which point no reflex reaction of the occupant due to heat occurs. Accordingly, the safe heating device can be provided.

[0051] Furthermore, according to the present embodiment, the heating device stops the energy supply to the heating section 22 when the approach or contact of an object in the vicinity is detected. Consequently, the heating device can prevent the occupant from experiencing thermal discomfort, for example, even if the occupant's contact with the heating surface continues for a relatively long period of time without alerting the user to the contact with the surface of the heating device.

[0052] As described above, the present heating device comprises the planar heating section 22, which generates heat by being supplied with energy. The heating device includes a plurality of planar electrodes 241 and 242 arranged on one surface side of the heating section, and the sensing circuit 30, which detects the approach of the object to the plurality of electrodes or contact with them based on a change in the capacitance between the plurality of electrodes. The heating device further includes the control device 40, which controls the quantity or amount of electricity supplied to the heating section based on the detection result provided by the sensing circuit 30. The heating section 22 and the plurality of electrodes 241 and 242 are arranged parallel to each other.When a plurality of electrodes 241 and 242 and the heating section 22 are projected in the direction perpendicular to the plurality of electrodes 241 and 242 and the heating section 22, the heating device has a heating region in which the heating section 22 is present and a non-heating region in which the heating section 22 is not present. The plurality of electrodes includes a heat propagation promotion section configured to be included in at least the non-heating region. The heat propagation promotion section promotes heat propagation in which heat transferred by the heating section is spread in the plane direction of the plurality of electrodes. The heat propagation promotion sections are wide sections 2412 and 2422.

[0053] With this configuration, the array of electrodes 241 and 242 includes the heat propagation promotion section, which is designed to be included in at least the non-heating region and promotes heat propagation in which heat transferred from the heating section 22 is distributed in the plane of the array of electrodes 241 and 242. The heat propagation promotion sections are the wide sections 2412 and 2422. Consequently, the heating device provides the user with a more stable sensation of warmth, preventing the user from experiencing thermal discomfort as the object continues to approach or be in contact with it.

[0054] In each of the overlapping regions where the heating section 22 and the plurality of electrodes 241 and 242 overlap, the volume of electrode 241 or 242 contained in the overlapping region is less than or equal to the volume of heating section 22 contained in the overlapping region when the plurality of electrodes 241 and 242 and the heating section 22 are projected in the direction perpendicular to the plurality of electrodes 241 and 242 and the heating section 22. That is, in each of the overlapping regions, the heat capacity of electrode 241 or 242 contained in the overlapping region is less than or equal to the heat capacity of heating section 22 contained in the overlapping region.Consequently, when the object comes into contact with the electrode 241 or 242, the temperature of the contact part can be rapidly reduced, since the heat capacity of each of the electrodes 241 and 242 is less than or equal to the heat capacity of the heating section 22, thus making it possible to reduce the user's discomfort with regard to heat.

[0055] The array of electrodes 241 and 242 comprises linear sections 2411 and 2421, as well as wide sections 2412 and 2422. Each of the linear sections 2411 and 2421 has a predetermined line width. Each of the wide sections 2412 and 2422 is configured to be included in at least the non-heating region and has a line width that is wider than the predetermined line width. The heat propagation-enhancing section is the wide section.

[0056] Thus, the heat propagation promotion section can be configured by the wide section 2412 or 2422, which is designed to be included in at least the non-heating region and has a linewidth wider than the predetermined linewidth. The temperature distribution in the plane direction of the plurality of electrodes 241 and 242 can be balanced by the wide sections 2412 and 2422. (Second example)

[0057] A heating device according to a second embodiment is described with reference to Fig. 10. In the present embodiment, the plurality of electrodes 241 and 242 comprises linear sections 2411 and 2421 and helical sections 2413 and 2423. Each of the linear sections 2411 and 2421 has a predetermined line width. Each of the helical sections 2413 and 2423 extends from at least the non-heating region, while winding through the heating region in the non-heating region. The heat propagation-enhancing sections are the helical sections 2413 and 2423.

[0058] The coiled section 2413 is configured to branch off from electrode 241 and extend while winding between the non-heating region and the heating region. The coiled section 2423 is configured to branch off from electrode 242 and extend while winding between the non-heating region and the heating region.

[0059] Heat transferred from the heating section 22 to the coiled sections 2413 and 2423 in the heating region is disseminated in the coiled sections 2413 and 2423 into the non-heating region in the plane direction of the multiple electrodes 241 and 242. In this way, the coiled sections 2413 and 2423 promote heat dissipation, in which heat transferred from the heating section 22 is disseminated in the plane direction of the electrodes 241 and 242.

[0060] In the present embodiment, the same effects as those shown by the configuration common to the first embodiment can be obtained in the same way as in the first embodiment.

[0061] The heat propagation promotion section can be configured by the winding sections 2413 and 2423, which extend from at least the non-heating region while winding through the heating region in the non-heating region. (Third embodiment)

[0062] The heating device according to a third embodiment is described with reference to Fig. 11. In the present embodiment, the plurality of electrodes 241 and 242 comprises linear sections 2411 and 2421, as well as first branching sections 2414 and 2424. Each of the linear sections 2411 and 2421 has a predetermined line width. Each of the first branching sections 2414 and 2424 is configured to be included in at least the non-heating region and to branch off from the linear section. The heat propagation sections are the first branching sections 2414 and 2424. The plurality of electrodes 241 and 242 further comprises second branching sections 2415 and 2425, which are configured to be included in at least the heating region and to branch off from the first branching sections 2414 and 2424, respectively. The heat propagation promotion section is configured by the first branch section 2414 or 2424 and the second branch section 2415 or 2425.

[0063] Consequently, the heat transferred from the heating section 22 to the linear sections 2411 and 2421 can be spread in the plane direction of the plurality of electrodes through the first branching sections 2414 and 2424, which are designed to be included in at least the non-heating region.

[0064] The heating device according to the present embodiment comprises the second branching sections 2415 and 2425, which are configured to be included in at least the heating region and to branch off from the first branching sections 2414 and 2424, respectively. Consequently, the heat transferred from the heating section 22 to the second branching sections 2415 and 2425 can be transferred to the first branching sections 2414 and 2424 and distributed in the plane direction of the electrodes 241 and 242 through the second branching sections 2415 and 2425, respectively.

[0065] In the present embodiment, the same effects as those shown by the configuration common to the first embodiment can be obtained in the same way as in the first embodiment.

[0066] The heat propagation promotion section can be configured by the first branching sections 241 and 242, which are designed to be included in at least the non-heating region and to branch off from the linear sections. (Fourth example)

[0067] A heating device according to a fourth embodiment is described with reference to Fig. 12 described. The heating section 22 of the heating device according to the present embodiment comprises a plurality of straight sections 221 arranged at specific intervals. The plurality of electrodes 241 and 242 comprises rectangular heat dissipation sections 2416 and 2426, respectively, configured to be included in at least the non-heating region. Each of the rectangular heat dissipation sections 2416 and 2426 forms a rectangular shape having one side longer than the width of the straight section. The minimum length of a gap between the plurality of rectangular heat dissipation sections 2416 and 2426 is shorter than an interval between the plurality of straight sections 221. The heat propagation sections are the rectangular heat dissipation sections 2416 and 2426.

[0068] Each of the rectangular heat dissipation sections 2416 and 2426 has a rectangular space formed therein, thereby reducing the amount or quantity of conductive metal used to form the rectangular heat dissipation sections 2416 and 2426.

[0069] Each side of the rectangular heat dissipation sections 2416 and 2426 is designed to extend in a direction that intersects a direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the straight sections 221.

[0070] In the present embodiment, the same effects as those shown by the configuration common to the first embodiment can be obtained in the same way as in the first embodiment.

[0071] In the heating device according to the present embodiment, the plurality of electrodes 241 and 242 comprise the rectangular heat dissipation sections 2416 and 2426, respectively, which are configured to be included in at least the non-heating region. Each of the rectangular heat dissipation sections 2416 and 2426 forms a rectangular shape having one side longer than the width of the straight section. The minimum length of a gap between the plurality of rectangular heat dissipation sections 2416 and 2426 is shorter than an interval between the plurality of straight sections 221.

[0072] This means that the rectangular heat dissipation sections 2416 and 2426 are designed to be included in at least one non-heating region and to be oriented in the plane direction of the electrodes 241 and 242. Consequently, the heat transferred from the heating sections 22 to the rectangular heat dissipation sections 2416 and 2426 can be dissipated by the rectangular heat dissipation sections 2416 and 2426 in the plane direction of the electrodes 241 and 242.

[0073] The first side of at least one of the plurality of rectangular heat dissipation sections 2416 is opposite a side of one of the rectangular heat dissipation sections 2426. The second side, which is adjacent to the first side, is arranged to be opposite a side of an adjacent rectangular heat dissipation section 2426, which is adjacent to the rectangular heat dissipation section 2426, which is arranged to be opposite the first side of the rectangular heat dissipation section 2416.

[0074] Consequently, as it is in Fig. As shown in Figure 4, the approach or contact of the object can be detected with higher accuracy when the capacities of a wide section 2412 and a wide section 2422 are combined. (Fifth example)

[0075] A heating device according to a fifth embodiment is described with reference to Fig. 13 described. The heating section 22 of the heating device according to the present embodiment comprises the plurality of straight sections 221 arranged at specific intervals. The plurality of electrodes 241 and 242 have honeycomb-shaped heat dissipation sections 2417 and 2427 configured to be included in at least the non-heating region. Each of the honeycomb-shaped heat dissipation sections 2417 and 2427 has a hexagonal shape, with one side longer than the width of the straight section. The minimum length of a gap between the plurality of honeycomb-shaped heat dissipation sections 2417 and 2427 is shorter than the interval between the plurality of straight sections 221. The heat propagation sections are the honeycomb-shaped heat dissipation sections 2417 and 2427.

[0076] Each side of the honeycomb-shaped heat dissipation sections 2417 and 2427 is designed to extend in a direction that intersects a direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the straight section 221.

[0077] In the present embodiment, the same effects as those shown by the configuration common to the first embodiment can be obtained in the same way as in the first embodiment.

[0078] In the heating device according to the present embodiment, the plurality of electrodes 241 and 242 comprises the honeycomb-shaped heat dissipation sections 2417 and 2427, which are configured to be included in at least the non-heating region. Each of the honeycomb-shaped heat dissipation sections 2417 and 2427 forms a hexagonal shape, having one side longer than the width of the straight section. The minimum length of a gap between the plurality of honeycomb-shaped heat dissipation sections 2417 and 2427 is shorter than an interval between the plurality of straight sections 221.

[0079] This means that the honeycomb-shaped heat dissipation sections 2417 and 2427 are designed to be included in at least one non-heating region and to be oriented in the plane direction of the electrodes 241 and 242. Consequently, the heat transferred from the heating section 22 to the rectangular heat dissipation sections 2416 and 2426 can be dissipated by the honeycomb-shaped heat dissipation sections 2417 and 2427 in the plane direction of the electrodes 241 and 242.

[0080] The first side of at least one of the plurality of honeycomb-shaped heat dissipation sections 2417 is opposite a side of one of the plurality of honeycomb-shaped heat dissipation sections 2427. The second side, which is adjacent to the first side, is arranged to be opposite a side of an adjacent rectangular heat dissipation section 2426, which is adjacent to the honeycomb-shaped heat dissipation section 2427, which is arranged to be opposite the first side of the honeycomb-shaped heat dissipation section 2417.

[0081] Consequently, as it is in Fig. As shown in Figure 4, the approach or contact of the object is detected with higher accuracy when the capacities of a wide section 2412 and a wide section 2422 are combined. (Sixth embodiment example)

[0082] A heating device according to a sixth embodiment is described with reference to the Fig. 14, Fig. 15 to Fig. 16. The heating device according to the present embodiment comprises a receiving electrode 242 and a transfer electrode 241, which are arranged to surround the receiving electrode 242. The receiving electrode 242 comprises a plurality of rectangular sections 2428, each of which has a rectangular shape, and a linear section 2429 that connects each adjacent rectangular section 2428. The receiving electrode 242 is configured to extend as it winds in the plane. The transfer electrode 241 is configured to surround the circumferences of the rectangular sections 2428 and the linear sections 2429. The transfer electrode 241 is formed in a metal mesh.

[0083] The heating device according to the present embodiment comprises two linear heating sections 22. The respective heating sections 22 are formed side by side in order to extend as they wind on the plane.

[0084] The receiving electrode 242 is configured to extend from at least the non-heating region while winding through the heating region on the non-heating region. Furthermore, the transfer electrode 241 is configured to wind from at least the non-heating region through the heating region and back to the non-heating region.

[0085] The overlapping relationship between the heating section 22 and each of the receiving electrode 242 and the transfer electrode 241 differs depending on their positions when the plurality of electrodes 241 and 242 and the heating section 22 are projected in the direction perpendicular to the plurality of electrodes 241 and 242 and the heating section 22.

[0086] In the present embodiment, the same effects as those shown by the configuration common to the first embodiment can be obtained in the same way as in the first embodiment.

[0087] The heating device according to the present embodiment comprises two linear heating sections 22, but it may have one heating section 22 or three or more heating sections 22. (Other examples) (1) The heating device is installed in a road vehicle as described by way of example in the respective embodiments described above, but it is not limited to the road vehicle and can also be installed in a cabin of a moving body, such as a ship or an aircraft. (2) In the fourth and fifth embodiments described above, a space is provided within the rectangular heat dissipation section 2416 or 2426 or the honeycomb-shaped heat dissipation section 2417 or 2427, although such a space can be dispensed with. (3) In the fourth and fifth embodiments, the rectangular heat dissipation section 2416 or 2426 or the honeycomb-shaped heat dissipation section 2417 or 2427 is configured as part of the plurality of electrodes 241 and 242. In contrast, parts of the plurality of electrodes 241 and 242 can be configured in any shape other than the rectangle and the hexagon, such as a triangle, an octagon, and a circle.

[0088] It should be noted that the present disclosure is not limited to the embodiments described above, and various modifications to these embodiments may be appropriately implemented. The aforementioned embodiments are not independent of one another and may be appropriately combined, except where such combination is obviously impossible. It is evident in the embodiments described above that the elements included in the embodiment are not necessarily essential, particularly except where they are explicitly stated as essential, unless it is otherwise considered that they are unambiguously essential in principle, and so forth.In the aforementioned respective embodiments, where reference is made to a specific value with regard to the number, numerical value, size, area, and the like of a component of the embodiments, the component is not limited to the specific value, in particular except where it is clearly stated that it is essential, unless otherwise considered to be clearly limited to the specific value in principle, and the like.In the respective embodiments described above, when reference is made to the material, shape, positional relationship, and the like of the component, the component is not specifically limited to the specific material, shape, positional relationship, and the like, unless otherwise specified, except where it is limited in principle to the specific material, shape, positional relationship, or the like. (Summary)

[0089] According to a first embodiment, as described in some or all of the aforementioned respective embodiments, a heat-generating device or heating device comprises a planar heating section that generates heat by being supplied with energy. The heating device comprises: a sensing circuit comprising a plurality of planar electrodes arranged on a surface side of the heating section, wherein the sensing circuit detects an approach to or contact of an object with the plurality of electrodes based on a change in capacitance between the plurality of electrodes; and a control device that controls the amount of energy supplied to the heating section based on a detection result of the sensing circuit. The heating section and the plurality of electrodes are arranged parallel to each other.The heating device has a heating region in which the heating section is present and a non-heating region in which the heating section is not present, when the plurality of electrodes and the heating section are projected in a direction perpendicular to the plurality of electrodes and the heating section. The plurality of electrodes includes a heat propagation promotion section configured to be included in at least the non-heating region, wherein the heat propagation promotion section promotes heat propagation in which heat transferred by the heating section is spread in a plane direction across the plurality of electrodes.

[0090] According to a second embodiment, in each of the overlapping regions where the heating element and the plurality of electrodes overlap, the volume of the electrode contained in the overlapping region is smaller than the volume of the heating element contained in the overlapping region when the plurality of electrodes and the heating element are projected in the direction perpendicular to the plurality of electrodes and the heating element. That is, in each of the overlapping regions, the heat capacity of the electrode contained in the overlapping region is smaller than the heat capacity of the heating element contained in the overlapping region. Consequently, when the object comes into contact with the electrode, the temperature of the contact area can be rapidly reduced, thus making it possible to lessen the user's discomfort with regard to heat.

[0091] According to a third embodiment, the plurality of electrodes can be configured by a linear section having a predetermined linewidth and a wide section, which is designed to be included in at least the non-heating region and has a linewidth wider than the predetermined linewidth. The temperature distribution in the planar direction of the plurality of electrodes can be balanced by the wide section.

[0092] According to a fourth embodiment, the plurality of electrodes comprises a coiled section extending from at least the non-heating region, while winding through the heating region on the non-heating region, wherein the heat propagation promotion section is the coiled section.

[0093] Thus, the heat propagation promotion section can be configured by the winding section that extends from at least the non-heating region while winding through the heating region on the non-heating region.

[0094] According to a fifth embodiment, the plurality of electrodes comprises: a linear section having a predetermined line width; and a first branching section configured to be included in at least the non-heating region and to branch off from the linear section, wherein the heat propagation promotion section is the first branching section.

[0095] Thus, the heat propagation promotion section can be configured by the first branching section, which is designed to be included in at least the non-heating region and to branch off from the linear section.

[0096] According to a sixth embodiment, the multitude of electrodes includes a second branching section, which is designed to be included in at least the heating region and to branch off from the first branching section.

[0097] Consequently, the heat transferred from the heating section 22 to the second branching section can be transferred to the first branching section and spread in the plane direction of the electrodes through the second branching section.

[0098] According to a seventh embodiment, the heating section comprises a plurality of straight sections arranged at a specific interval, wherein the plurality of electrodes includes a rectangular heat dissipation section configured to be contained in at least the non-heating region and forming a rectangular shape having one side longer than the width of the straight section. A minimum length of any gap between the plurality of rectangular heat dissipation sections is shorter than the interval between the plurality of straight sections, wherein the heat propagation-promoting section is the rectangular heat dissipation section.

[0099] This means that the rectangular heat dissipation section is designed to be oriented in the plane direction of the electrode, so that it is contained within at least one non-heating region. Consequently, the heat transferred from the heating section to the rectangular heat dissipation section can be dissipated by the rectangular heat dissipation section in the plane direction of the electrode.

[0100] According to an eighth embodiment, the heating section comprises a plurality of straight sections arranged at a specific interval, wherein the plurality of electrodes includes a honeycomb-shaped heat dissipation section configured to be contained in at least the non-heating region and forming a hexagonal shape having one side longer than the width of the straight section. A minimum gap length between the plurality of honeycomb-shaped heat dissipation sections is shorter than the interval between the plurality of straight sections, wherein the heat propagation-promoting section is the honeycomb-shaped heat dissipation section.

[0101] This means that the honeycomb-shaped heat dissipation section is designed to be contained within at least one non-heating region and to be oriented in the plane of the electrodes. Consequently, the heat transferred from the heating section to the honeycomb-shaped heat dissipation section can be dissipated through the rectangular heat dissipation section in the plane of the electrodes.

Claims

Heating device (20) comprising: a planar heating section (22) configured to generate heat when energized; a sensing circuit (30) comprising a plurality of planar electrodes (241, 242) arranged on a surface side of the heating section (22), wherein the sensing circuit (30) is configured to detect an approach of an object to, or contact of, an object with the plurality of electrodes (241, 242) based on a change in capacitance between the plurality of electrodes (241, 242); and a control device (40) configured to control an amount of energy supplied to the heating section (22) based on a sensing result of the sensing circuit (30), wherein the heating section (22) and the plurality of electrodes (241, 242) are arranged in parallel to each other, and the heating device (20) is configured to form a heating region in which the heating section (22) is present.and to have a non-heating region in which the heating section (22) is not present, when the plurality of electrodes (241, 242) and the heating section (22) are projected in a direction perpendicular to the plurality of electrodes (241, 242) and the heating section (22), and the plurality of electrodes (241, 242) includes a heat propagation promotion section (2412 to 2417, 2422 to 2427) which is provided to be included at least in the non-heating region, wherein the heat propagation promotion section (2412 to 2417, 2422 to 2427) is configured to promote the propagation of the heat transferred by the heating section (22) in a plane direction of the plurality of electrodes (241, 242). Heating device (20) according to claim 1, wherein in each of overlapping regions in which the heating section (22) and the plurality of electrodes (241, 242) overlap each other, a volume of the electrode included in the overlapping region is less than or equal to a volume of the heating section (22) included in the overlapping region when the plurality of electrodes (241, 242) and the heating section (22) are projected in the direction perpendicular to the plurality of electrodes (241, 242) and the heating section (22). Heating device (20) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the plurality of electrodes (241, 242) comprises: a linear section (2411, 2421) having a predetermined line width; and a wide section (2412, 2422) configured to be included in at least the non-heating region, wherein the wide section has a line width wider than the predetermined line width, and the heat propagation promotion section (2412 to 2417, 2422 to 2427) is the wide section. Heating device (20) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the plurality of electrodes (241, 242) comprises a coiled section (2413, 2423) extending from at least the non-heating region while winding through the heating region on the non-heating region, and the heat propagation promotion section (2412 to 2417, 2422 to 2427) is the coiled section (2413, 2423). Heating device (20) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the plurality of electrodes (241, 242) comprises: a linear section (2411, 2421) having a predetermined line width; and a first branching section (2414, 2424) configured to be included in at least the non-heating region, wherein the first branching section (2414, 2424) branches off from the linear section (2411, 2421), and the heat propagation promotion section (2412 to 2417, 2422 to 2427) is the first branching section (2414, 2424). Heating device (20) according to claim 5, wherein the plurality of electrodes (241, 242) comprises a second branching section (2415, 2425) which is configured to be included in at least the heating region, wherein the second branching section (2415, 2425) branches off from the first branching section (2414, 2424). Heating device (20) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the heating section (22) comprises a plurality of straight sections (221) arranged at a certain interval, the plurality of electrodes (241, 242) comprises a plurality of rectangular heat dissipation sections (2416, 2426) configured to be included at least in the non-heating region, each of the rectangular heat dissipation sections (2416, 2426) having a rectangular shape having one side longer than the width of each of the plurality of straight sections (221), the minimum length of any gap between the plurality of rectangular heat dissipation sections (2416, 2426) being shorter than any interval between the plurality of straight sections (221), and the heat propagation promotion section (2412 to 2417, 2422 to 2427) comprising the plurality of rectangular heat dissipation sections (2416, 2426) are included. Heating device (20) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the heating section (22) comprises a plurality of straight sections (221) arranged at a certain interval, the plurality of electrodes (241, 242) comprises a plurality of honeycomb-shaped heat dissipation sections (2417, 2427) configured to be included at least in the non-heating region, each of the honeycomb-shaped heat dissipation sections (2417, 2427) forming a hexagonal shape having one side longer than the width of each of the plurality of straight sections (221), the minimum length of a gap between the plurality of honeycomb-shaped heat dissipation sections (2417, 2427) being shorter than the interval between the plurality of straight sections (221), and the heat propagation promotion section (2412 to 2417, 2422 to 2427) the multitude of honeycomb-shaped heat dissipation sections (2417, 2427) are included.

Images