AIR DISTRIBUTION DEVICE

Abstract

An air distribution device for a vehicle seat, comprising: an upper cover including one or more outlet openings; a lower cover connected to the upper cover to form a housing, the lower cover including an opening; and an air movement device comprising an impeller, the impeller being positioned in the housing between the upper cover and the lower cover; wherein air is drawn into the housing by the air movement device through the opening in the lower cover and then discharged from the housing through the one or more outlet openings in the upper cover.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority to US 63 / 356,763, filed June 29, 2022, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety for all purposes. AREA

[0002] These teachings relate to an air distribution device and to a vehicle seat having an air distribution device. BACKGROUND

[0003] Some vehicle seats include one or more features to enhance occupant comfort. For example, some vehicle seats include one or more climate control systems for directing warm, cool, and / or ambient air toward or away from an occupant of the vehicle seat. Such climate control systems may include an air moving device and an air distribution device configured to distribute or capture an airflow generated by the air moving device.

[0004] Although some of the air conditioning systems currently available are suitable for their intended purpose, it may be desirable to improve the current state of the art.

[0005] For example, some air movement devices are connected to an air distribution device via one or more hoses, one or more ducts, and / or one or more clamps. An improved air distribution device may be desirable that does not require one or more hoses, one or more ducts, or one or more clamps to connect the air movement device to the air distribution device. Instead, for example, an air movement device that is directly connected to the air distribution device and / or an air movement device that includes an integrated air distribution device may be desirable. Numerous advantages may be associated with such an air distribution device, including reduced product assembly time, reduced weight, and reduced package space.

[0006] Some air distribution devices include a housing with one or more layers within the housing. The one or more inner layers may be configured or designed to prevent the housing from collapsing under the weight of an occupant or object on the vehicle seat. An improved air distribution device with a housing that does not include such inner layers may be desirable. Numerous advantages may be associated with such an air distribution device, including, for example, reduced product assembly time, reduced weight, reduced cost, and reduced package space. SUMMARY

[0007] These teachings provide an air distribution device. The air distribution device can be added to or integrated into the structure of a vehicle seat. The air distribution device can comprise a cover comprising one or more outlet openings; an opposing cover connected to the cover to form a housing, the opposing cover comprising an opening; and an air moving device comprising an impeller, the impeller positioned in the housing between the cover and the opposing cover; wherein air from the air moving device is drawn into the housing through the opening in the opposing cover and then exhausted from the housing through the one or more outlet openings in the cover.

[0008] These teachings provide an air distribution device for a vehicle seat, comprising: a cover including one or more outlet openings; an opposing cover connected to the cover to form a housing, the opposing cover including an opening; and an air moving device including an impeller, the impeller being positioned at least partially within the housing between the cover and the opposing cover and at least partially beneath the opposing cover; wherein air from the air moving device is drawn into the housing through the one or more outlet openings in the cover and then exhausted from the housing through the openings in the opposing cover.

[0009] The cover and / or the opposing cover described herein may also be referred to as a lower cover, a top cover, a side cover, an opposite side cover, or a combination thereof. The description of the cover may be based on the orientation of the air distribution device before and after adding or installing the air distribution device to or into the vehicle seat or other installation location. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Fig. 1 is a side view of a vehicle. Fig. 2 is a perspective view of a vehicle seat. Fig. 3 is a perspective view of an air distribution device from above or from the front. Fig. 4 is a perspective view of the air distribution device of Fig. 3 from below or from behind. Fig. Figure 5 is an exploded perspective view of the air distribution device of Fig. 3 and Fig. 4. Fig. Figure 6 is a perspective view of the outside of the top or front cover of the air distribution device of Fig. 3 and Fig. 4. Fig. Figure 7 is a perspective view of the inside of the top or front cover of the air distribution device of Fig. 3 and Fig. 4. Fig. Figure 8 is a perspective view of the inside of the lower or rear cover of the air distribution device of Fig. 3 and Fig. 4. Fig. 9 is a perspective view of the outside of the lower or rear cover of the air distribution device of Fig. 3 and Fig. 4. Fig. 10 is a cross-sectional view of the air distribution device of Fig. 3 and Fig. 4. Fig. 11 is a cross-sectional view of the air distribution device of Fig. 3 and Fig. 4 when installed in a vehicle seat. Fig. 12 is a perspective view of an air distribution device from above or from the front. Fig. 13 is a perspective view of the air distribution device of Fig. 12 from below or from behind. Fig. 14 is an exploded perspective view of the air distribution device of Fig. 12 and Fig. 13. Fig. 15 is a perspective cross-sectional view of the air distribution device of Fig. 12 and Fig. 13. Fig. 16 is a perspective view of an air distribution system from above or from the front. Fig. 17 is a perspective view of the air distribution system of Fig. 16 from below or from behind. Fig. Figure 18 is an exploded perspective view of the air distribution device of Fig. 16 and Fig. 17. Fig. 19 is an exploded perspective view of the air distribution device of Fig. 16 and Fig. 17. Fig. 20 is a cross-sectional view of the air distribution device of Fig. 16 and Fig. 17. Fig. 21 is a perspective view of an air distribution device from above or from the front. Fig. 22 is a perspective view of an air distribution device from below or from the rear. Fig. 23 is a perspective view of the exterior of the housing of the air distribution device of Fig. 21 and Fig. 22. Fig. 24 is a perspective view of the inside of the housing of the air distribution device of Fig. 21 and Fig. 22. Fig. 25 is a perspective view of an air distribution device. Fig. 26 is a perspective view of the air distribution device of Fig. 25. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0010] These teachings provide an air distribution device. The air distribution device is illustrated and described herein with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that the accompanying drawings are merely exemplary and are provided to explain the structure, elements, and features of the air distribution device and their associated function. Features or elements illustrated and described in the drawings may be rearranged, omitted, duplicated, and / or reconfigured and still fall within the scope of the teachings. Furthermore, it is contemplated that one or more features or elements from an exemplary drawing may be duplicated, rearranged, and / or reconfigured and then added to other features in other drawings.The orientation, placement, and / or size of features or elements in the drawings should not be considered a fixed requirement. Furthermore, a description regarding the structure and / or function of a feature in one figure may apply to the structure and / or function of a related feature in another figure, unless otherwise noted.

[0011] It is also understood that a top cover or layer of any of the air distribution devices disclosed herein may be replaced by another illustrated and / or described top cover or layer of any air distribution device. Likewise, a bottom cover or layer of any air distribution device may be replaced by another illustrated and / or described bottom cover or layer of any air distribution device. One non-limiting example is that the top cover or layer 104 shown in Fig. 3, by the upper cover or layer 104, which in Fig. 12, and vice versa. The same applies to any of the air movement devices. Furthermore, it should be understood that despite the description of a layer or cover as an "upper" one, the same cover or layer may be a "lower" one, and that may depend on the orientation of the air distribution device before or after installation in its final location, such as the vehicle seat or any other air-conditioned seat (i.e., a seat other than a vehicle seat).

[0012] Fig. 1 illustrates a vehicle 10. The vehicle 10 includes a seat 12. The seat 12 may be a front vehicle seat 14. The vehicle seat 12 may be a rear vehicle seat 16. Although the focus of the description herein is on integrating an air distribution device into a vehicle seat, it should be understood that the air distribution device may also, or instead, be added to or installed in a non-vehicle seat, such as an office chair, wheelchair, couch, sofa, recliner, bed, or other supportive seating device. Further, although the teachings focus on a motor vehicle as the vehicle 10, the vehicle may be any vehicle, such as an aircraft, train, boat, off-road vehicle, multi-purpose vehicle, motorcycle, etc.

[0013] Fig. 2 illustrates a seat 12. The vehicle seat 12 includes a backrest portion 18 and a seat portion 20. The backrest portion 18 includes a frame and / or a suspension 22 supporting a cushion 24. The seat portion 20 includes a frame and / or a suspension 22 supporting a cushion 24. The frame and / or suspension 22 may be the same component for both the backrest portion 18 and the seat portion 20, or the frame and / or suspension 22 may be different components. Likewise, the cushion 24 may be the same component for both the backrest portion 18 and the seat portion 20, or the cushion 24 may be different individual components.

[0014] The vehicle seat 12 may include one or more air distribution devices 100. An air distribution device 100 may be positioned in the backrest portion 18. An air distribution device 100 may be positioned in the seat portion 20. The air distribution device 100 may be installed or attached to the frame spring 22 and / or to the cushion 24 of the backrest portion 18 and / or the seat portion 20 of the vehicle seat 12. The air distribution device 100 may be positioned on the A-side of the cushion 24, on the opposite B-side of the cushion 24, or within the thickness dimension of the cushion 24 between the A-side and the B-side. A cover, cover layer, padding, or other layer 25 may be provided in front of and / or behind the air distribution device 100.

[0015] Fig. 3 and Fig. 4 illustrate an air distribution device 100. The air distribution device 100 includes a housing 102. The housing 102 may include a first or upper cover or layer 104, an opposing second or lower cover or layer 106, and a space 107 defined therebetween.

[0016] The top and / or bottom covers or layers 104, 106 may be made of a generally rigid material. The top and / or bottom covers 104, 106 may be made of a generally flexible material. The top and / or bottom covers 104, 106 may be made of a plastic, metal, composite, biodegradable material, or printed material. For example, the top and / or bottom covers or layers may be made of polypropylene, nylon, polyethylene, polystyrene, acrylic, polyvinyl chloride, polyethylene terephthalate, low density polyethylene, high density polyethylene (HDPE), aluminum, steel, or a combination thereof. The top and / or bottom covers may be formed by a plastic injection molding process, a stamping process, a printing process, a 3D printing process, and the like, or a combination thereof. In some configurations,The upper and / or lower covers 104, 106 may be made of a fabric material. The fabric material may be glued, welded, or otherwise joined to the other. For example, the lower cover 106 may be made of a fabric material and then glued or welded to the upper cover 104, which may be made of a rigid material, or vice versa. In some configurations, the upper or lower cover or layer may be omitted. This means that the housing would be composed of only the upper or lower layer, and the omitted layer may be obtained from another adjacent structure or feature, such as the cushion or cover or the suspension of the vehicle seat. In some configurations, the upper or lower cover or layer may be integrated.This means that the top and bottom covers or layers are a single, integral element. For example, the housing may be formed from a single cover or layer, which is then folded over, resulting in the formation of a top and bottom cover or layer based on their orientation (see, for example, . Fig. 23 and Fig. 24). Any portion of the above description and / or the following description may be applied to any of the enclosures or air distribution devices disclosed herein.

[0017] The top and bottom covers or layers 104, 106 may be connected together by one or more fastening means. The one or more fastening means may extend into and / or through one or both of the covers or layers 104, 106. Additionally or alternatively, the covers or layers 104, 106 may be connected together at their edge zones or edges 109 by one or more fastening means. For example, the edges or edge zones may be connected together by welding, high-frequency welding, adhesive tape, double-sided adhesive, bonding agent, lamination, pressure-sensitive adhesive, one or more mechanical fasteners, or a combination thereof. Virtually any fastening means may be used to connect and / or hold the two housings together.

[0018] The air distribution device 100 may include an air movement device 108. The air movement device 108 may be a fan, a centrifugal fan, a 360-degree rotating fan, and / or a radial fan. The air movement device may also be referred to as a blower, a blower, a suction device, a ventilator, or any other device for generating an airflow.

[0019] The air movement device 108 may include one or more impellers 110. The impeller 110 may include one or more blades or vanes configured to rotate about a central axis A of the air distribution device 100 or the fan 108 or the impeller 110.

[0020] As discussed in more detail below, the air distribution device 100, the air movement device 108, and / or the impeller 110 can be operated in a push mode, wherein the impeller 110 rotates about axis A and draws air into the housing 102 through one of the covers (i.e., the lower cover 106) and then expels the drawn air through the other cover (i.e., the upper cover 104), or vice versa. In some configurations, the impeller 110 can be operated in a pull mode, wherein the impeller 110 rotates about axis A and draws air into the housing 102 through one of the covers (i.e., the upper cover 104) and then expels the drawn air through the other cover (i.e., the lower cover 106) or from an area between the upper and lower covers.

[0021] The air distribution device 100 and / or the air movement device 108 may include a connector 112. The connector 112 may electrically connect the air distribution device 100 and / or the air movement device 108 to a controller 114. The controller 114 may be a computer or processor associated with, or part of, the vehicle seat, the climate control system, the vehicle, or a combination thereof. The controller 114 may be operable to turn the air distribution device 100 and / or the air movement device 108 ON and / or OFF, and / or to regulate a speed and / or temperature of air expelled from the air movement device 100, and / or a duration and / or frequency of operation of the air movement device 108.

[0022] Fig. 5 illustrates an air distribution device 100. The first or top cover 104 may comprise a generally planar substrate including an opening 116 through which a portion 118 of the air moving device 108 is configured to extend (see Fig. 3). The opening 116 may be centered between the top and bottom edges of the cover 104 and / or the lateral side edges of the cover 104. In other configurations, the opening 116 may be offset toward one or more of the edges of the cover 104.

[0023] In some configurations, this opening 116 may be omitted, and the portion 118 of the air moving device 108 may be covered or encapsulated by the top cover. In some configurations, the portion 118 of the air moving device 108 may be integrated into the top cover 104. This may mean that the air moving device 108 or the housing 130 of the air moving device encompasses the top cover 104. The portion 118 may include at least a portion of the impeller, the electronics of the port 112, a cover, cap, or sheet covering the impeller, or a combination thereof.

[0024] The first or top cover 104 may include one or more exit openings or recesses 120. An airflow generated by the air moving device 108 may be expelled from the housing 102 through the one or more exit openings or recesses 120. In some configurations, when the air distribution device 100 is operated in a reverse or draft mode, an airflow may be directed into the housing 102 via the one or more exit openings 120 and then captured in the open space 107 of the housing 102 before being expelled from the housing 102. The top cover 104 may include one or more mounting holes 122. The one or more exit openings or recesses 120 may be evenly distributed on the cover 104 (i.e., symmetrically about the various axes of the cover 104 and / or the housing 102).The one or more outlet openings or recesses 120 may be distributed unevenly on the cover 104 (i.e., not symmetrically around the various axes of the cover 104 and / or the housing 102). This means that the one or more outlet openings or recesses 120 may be provided at virtually any location, at any spacing, in any pattern, or in any orientation, depending on the desired airflow and dynamics. Furthermore, the size of the one or more outlet openings 120 may be the same for all outlet openings 120, or the sizes may vary. This may again depend on a desired airflow in certain areas and the dynamics. The outlet openings 120 may be circular or have any other shape, such as oval, oblong, square, rectangular, slot-shaped, etc.The outlet openings 120 may include one or more grilles or screens thereover to guide the airflow and / or prevent dust or foreign matter from entering the housing 102, 107. This explanation regarding the sizes, shapes, and positions of the outlet openings applies to all examples of the air distribution device disclosed herein.

[0025] The bottom cover 106 may comprise a generally planar substrate including an opening 124 through which air may be drawn into the housing 102 by the rotating impeller of the air moving device 108. In some configurations, the air moving device 108 ( Fig. 5) be integrated with the bottom cover 106. This may mean that the air moving device 108 or the housing 130 encompasses the bottom cover 106, since the bottom covers are attached directly to the air moving device 108. Again, the shape, size, and position of the opening 124 may vary, as disclosed above with respect to the opening 116.

[0026] The second or lower cover 106 and / or the upper cover 104 may include an air directing structure or a rib structure 126 surrounding the opening 124. The air directing or rib structure 126 may be located within the interior 107 of the housing 102. The air directing or rib structure 126 may be configured to direct airflow toward the one or more outlet openings 120. This may help increase the efficiency of the air distribution device by ensuring that the air generated by the air moving device 108 is directed to one or more outlet openings 120 so that the airflow can be expelled toward an occupant of the vehicle seat. In some configurations, the airflow structure or rib may also create a seal between the top and bottom covers 104, 106 so that the generated airflow does not leak or escape between the two covers or layers 104, 106.In this regard, the airfoil or fin structure may at least partially collapse or be compressed between the two generally planar structures of the covers 104, 106 after assembly of the housing 102. The bottom cover 106 may include one or more mounting holes 128 or bosses. The airfoil or fin structure may be made of a plastic material. The airfoil or fin structure may be made of rubber, a sealing member, or foam. The airfoil or fin structure may be made of a rigid, flexible, or compressible material. The airfoil or fin structure may be made of the same material as, or a different material than, the upper and / or lower housings.

[0027] The air movement device 108 includes a housing or bracket 130. The air movement device 108 may include one or more mounting holes or mounting flanges 132.

[0028] To install the air distribution device 100, one or more fasteners 134 may be inserted into and / or through the mounting holes or bosses 122, 132, and 128 in the top cover 104, the air movement device 108, and the bottom cover 106. The opposing generally planar portions or flanges 127 of the top and bottom covers 104, 106 may be brought into contact with each other. In some configurations, one or more fasteners (i.e., adhesive, sealant, gasket, etc.) may be provided between the generally planar portions 127. This may help ensure the structural integrity of the enclosure after it is installed.This may also help to ensure that airflow directed into the housing does not leak or escape between the two covers 104, 106 and is instead discharged from the one or more exit openings or recesses 120.

[0029] When the two covers 104, 106 are brought together, an upper surface 129 of the airfoil or fin structure 126 contacts an inner surface of the top cover 104. In some configurations, the airfoil or fin structure 126 may be compressed between the two covers 104, 106. In some configurations, a small gap or spacing may be defined between the upper surface 129 of the airfoil or fin structure 126 and the inner surface of the top cover 104.

[0030] In some configurations, the airfoil or fin structure 126 may also or instead be provided on the inner surface of the top cover 104. In such a configuration, the airfoil or fin structure 126 may function similarly to the above description of the airfoil or fin structure 126 provided on the bottom cover 106.

[0031] After the device 100 has been installed, one or more cables or wires 131 connecting the air distribution device 108 to the connector 112 can be routed between the two cover halves 104, 106. To this end, an opening or recessed area can be provided on or in one or both of the cover halves 104, 106 to allow the one or more cables or wires 131 to pass between the cover halves 104, 106. Preferably, the opening or recessed area is such that the one or more cables or wires 131 can pass between the two parts 104, 106 without allowing a large amount of airflow to escape therebetween. In further configurations, the one or more cables or wires 131 can extend out of the opening 116, as shown in Fig. 3, or through one or more of the outlet openings or recesses 120, which may be used only for passing the cable or wire 131 or may also be used to direct air into and / or out of the housing 102.

[0032] Fig. 6 and Fig. 7 illustrate the first or top cover 104. The top cover 104 may have a generally planar and / or rectangular shape. However, in other configurations, the top cover 104 may have a different shape, such as a square, round, oval, diamond, or any other polygonal shape. In further configurations, the shape may include any number of curved sides. The top cover 104 may have a concave or convex shape or structure, depending on the airflow generated and / or the environment in which the air distribution device is to be installed.

[0033] The first or top cover 104 may include a flange 136. The flange 136 may surround a periphery of the cover 104. A generally vertical or upright wall 138 may be defined between the flange 136 and the top surface 140. The top surface 140 includes the opening 116 and the one or more exit ports 120. The wall 138 may be generally perpendicular to the flange 136 and / or the top surface 140; however, in some configurations, the wall 138 may be disposed at a non-perpendicular angle to the flange 136 and / or the top surface 140. In some configurations, the wall 138 may include one or more exit ports 120. In some configurations, the wall 138 may be omitted and the flange 136 and the top surface 140 may be disposed in the same plane. In some configurations, the flange 136 may be omitted.

[0034] The wall 138 may have a height generally corresponding to a height of the airfoil or rib structure 126 illustrated in the preceding figures and discussed above. This may allow the airfoil or rib structure 126 to be compressed only slightly or not at all when the two cover halves are joined together.

[0035] The opening 116 in the top cover 104 may be generally circular, as shown. In other configurations, the opening 116 may have a different shape, such as a square, an oval, a diamond, or any other polygonal shape. In further configurations, the opening 116 may have any number of curved sides.

[0036] The opening 116 may be centered along a horizontal axis H and / or a vertical axis V. In further configurations, the opening 116 may be offset from one or both axes H, V. The opening 116 may be centered about the central axis A ( Fig. 5). Or, in some configurations, the opening 116 may be offset from the central axis A. The opening 116 may be provided so that at least a portion of the air movement device 108 extends therethrough after the device 100 is installed. In other configurations, the opening 116 may serve a similar purpose to the outlet openings 120.

[0037] The first or top cover 104 may include one or more outlet openings 120. An airflow generated by the air moving device 108 may be expelled from the housing 102 through the one or more outlet openings 120. The one or more outlet openings 120 in the top cover 104 may be generally circular, as shown. In other configurations, the one or more outlet openings 120 may have a different shape, such as a square, an oval, a diamond, or any other polygonal shape. In further configurations, the one or more outlet openings 120 may have any number of curved sides. In another configuration, air may be drawn into the housing through the one or more outlet openings 107.

[0038] The one or more outlet openings 120 may be aligned with one or more channels or vents 26, 28 defined in the seat cushion 24 ( Fig. 11). The one or more exit openings 120 may be aligned along an axis H' offset from and generally parallel to the horizontal axis H. The one or more exit openings 120 may be aligned along an axis V' offset from and generally parallel to the vertical axis V. In further configurations, the one or more exit openings 120 may be arbitrarily spaced on the top cover 104. In some configurations, the exit openings 120 may be arranged radially around the opening 116. In some configurations, the central opening 116 may be an exit opening 120. The one or more exit openings 120 may have the same size and shape. In some configurations, the size and shape of the exit openings 120 may be different.For example, a larger sized outlet opening 120 may be preferred in some areas to allow a larger amount of air to flow therefrom. For example, a smaller sized outlet opening 120 may be preferred in some areas to allow a smaller amount of air to flow therefrom.

[0039] An upright or upstanding flange or channel 142 may surround one or more of the outlet openings 120. The flange or channel 142 may raise or extend the outlet opening 120 above the upper surface 140 of the top cover 104. The flange 142 may be used to connect the air distribution device 100 to a cushion 24 or a seat cushion ( Fig. 11). This means that the flange 142 can be received in an exit opening, channel, or opening defined in the cushion 24. In some configurations, one or more of the flanges 142 can be omitted. The flange 142 can have the same shape as the exit opening 120 or a different shape. The flange 142 can be configured to lock the cover 104 and / or the device 100 to the cushion 24. To this end, the size of the flange 142 can be slightly larger than the mating channel or mating exit opening in the cushion 24 to provide an interference fit to ensure that the device 100 is held against or connected to the cushion 24.

[0040] The layout of the mounting holes 122 in the top cover 104 may be generally aligned with each other along the horizontal and / or vertical axes. In some configurations, the mounting holes 122 may be offset or staggered from one another with respect to one or more of the axes.

[0041] The features or geometry of the first or top cover 104 may be generally symmetrical about or with respect to the horizontal axis A and / or vertical axis V. In some configurations, the features or geometry of the top cover 104 may be asymmetrical about or with respect to the horizontal axis A and / or vertical axis V.

[0042] Fig. 8 and Fig. 9 illustrate the second or bottom cover 106. The bottom cover 106 may have a generally planar and rectangular shape. However, in other configurations, the bottom cover 106 may have a different shape, such as a square, round, oval, diamond, or any other polygonal shape. In further configurations, the shape may have any number of curved sides. The bottom cover 106 may have a size, shape, geometry, and / or configuration corresponding to that of the first or top cover 104.

[0043] The opening 124 in the bottom cover 106 may be centered along a horizontal axis H and / or a vertical axis V of the bottom cover 106. In further configurations, the opening 124 may be offset from one or both axes H, V. The opening 124 may be centered about the central axis A ( Fig. 5). Or, in some configurations, the opening 124 may be offset from the central axis A. The opening 124 in the lower cover may be aligned with the opening 116 in the upper cover along the axis A. In some configurations, the openings 124, 116 may be offset from each other about the central axis A. The lower cover 106 may have one or more than one opening 124. The opening 124 may have the same size and / or shape as the opening 116 in the first cover 104. The openings 124, 116 may be generally aligned along the axis A or may be offset from each other.

[0044] The bottom cover 106 may include an inner surface 144. The inner surface 144 may face an inner surface of the first or top cover 104. The inner surface 144 may face the interior of the housing 102. The inner surface 144 may include an air directing or rib structure 126. The rib structure may surround the opening 124. The rib structure 126 may surround the one or more exit openings 120 in the top cover 104. The rib structure 126 may include a structure that acts to direct or guide airflow from the air moving device 108 to the one or more exit openings 120. The rib structure 126 may be arranged to direct or guide generally the same amount of air to the exit openings 120. The rib structure 126 may be arranged to guide or direct more air to some of the outlet openings 120 and less air to other outlet openings 120.The rib structure 126 may be a continuous structure. Continuous structure means that there are no interruptions or gaps in the rib structure. In some configurations, the rib structure 126 may have one or more interruptions or end regions where no rib structure is present. In some configurations, the height of the entire rib structure 126 may be generally uniform. In some configurations, the height of the entire rib structure 126 may vary. For example, there may be one or more regions 148 where the height of the rib structure is less than in other regions 150, which may include a rib or other raised structure. For example, there may be one or more regions where the rib structure ends and begins in another region.

[0045] The rib structure 126 may include one or more petals 152. A petal 152 may be a geometric region of the rib structure 126 that, after the covers 104, 106 are connected together, surrounds an outlet opening 120 in the top cover 104. A petal 152 may have a rounded shape; however, the shape may be virtually any shape. Preferably, the shape is such that the air is guided or directed to the outlet opening 120.

[0046] The rib structure 126 may include an apex 154. An apex 154 may be a region of the rib structure 126 where two or more petals 152 are connected together. The apex 154 may be generally aligned along the horizontal axis H. Alternatively, the apex 154' may be generally offset from the horizontal axis H. The placement or arrangement of the apex 154 may be determined to direct the correct amount of airflow to the one or more exit openings 120.

[0047] In some configurations, the rib structure 126 may additionally or instead be positioned on the top cover 104, for example, on the inner surface as shown in Fig. 7.

[0048] The features or geometry of the bottom cover 106 may be generally symmetrical about the horizontal axis H and / or vertical axis V. In some configurations, the features or geometry of the bottom cover 106 may be asymmetrical about the horizontal and / or vertical axis V.

[0049] An outer surface 156 of the lower cover 106, opposite the inner surface 144, may include a flange 158. The flange 158 may surround the opening 124. The flange 158 may provide space for accommodating the impeller 110 of the air moving device 108 (see Fig. 10). However, the air moving device 108 and / or the impeller 110 may be configured to fit within the housing 102, so that a flange 158 is not required. In some configurations, the flange 158 may be part of the housing 130 of the air moving device 108. The flange 158 may be integrally formed with the bottom cover 106. And in other configurations, the flange 158 may be attached to the cover by one or more fasteners.

[0050] With reference now to Fig. 10, after the housing 102 is installed or the first and second covers 104, 106 are connected, the flange 136 of the upper cover 104 is in contact with the inner surface 144 of the lower cover 106. The air distribution device 100 may include a fastener or seal in the area where the flange 136 is connected to the lower cover 106. The fastener or seal may reduce, minimize, or eliminate airflow leakage between the two cover halves 104, 106 and / or prevent separation of the two halves 104, 106.

[0051] The rib structure 126 may have a height that extends from the inner surface 144 of the lower cover 106 to the inner surface 152 of the upper cover 104. The rib structure 124 may contact the inner surface 151 of the upper cover 104. In some embodiments, the rib structure 126 may be shorter than the inner surface 151 of the upper cover 104 such that the top of the rib structure 126 does not contact the inner surface 151 of the upper cover 104. In some embodiments, the rib structure 126 may contact the inner surface 151 of the upper cover 104 and may not have contact with the inner surface 151 of the upper cover 104 in other areas. The rib structure 126 may function to direct airflow within the housing 102 between the impeller and the exhaust ports 120.The rib structure 126 may act to limit or prevent the housing 102 from collapsing or crushing under the weight of an occupant or object on the vehicle seat. The rib structure 126 may act to maintain the spacing of the interior of the housing 102.

[0052] The air distribution device 100 may include a fastener or seal in the area where the rib structure 126 contacts the inner surface 151 of the top cover 104 to reduce or minimize airflow leakage to undesired locations. The fastener could include welding, high-frequency welding, adhesive tape, sealing tape, or the like. The fastener or seal may be positioned in an area between the inner surfaces of the covers 104, 106. The fastener or seal may be positioned in a peripheral area of ​​the covers 104, 106.

[0053] The rib structure 126 may limit or prevent the housing 102 from collapsing under the weight of an occupant or a load on the vehicle seat, for example.

[0054] The housing 102 or the interior space 107 may not have any layers or structures between the two halves 104, 106. The housing 102 or the interior space 107 may not have any layers or structures between the two halves 104, 106 other than the rib structure 126, the impeller, and / or the housing of the air movement device 108.

[0055] Fig. 11 illustrates an air distribution device 100 installed in a vehicle seat. The air distribution device 100 may be attached to the cushion 24 and / or to a frame or suspension 22 of the vehicle seat. The air distribution device 100 may be received in a depression or recess formed in the bottom or B-side of the cushion 24, or may be attached to or supported on the B-side of the cushion 24. The cushion may be part of the backrest portion or the seat portion, as discussed above. Fig. 2. The air distribution device 100 may be attached to the cushion and / or the frame or suspension 22 with one or more fastening means, such as one or more pins, thumbtacks, screws, tape, double-sided tape, an adhesive, clips, or a combination thereof. In other configurations, the air distribution device 100 may be positioned on the opposite A-side of the cushion, beneath a cushioning layer and / or a cover or cover layer. In such a configuration, the airflow would not need to pass through any thickness dimension of the cushion 24.

[0056] During use, a computer or processor of the vehicle seat and / or vehicle may turn the air movement device ON and rotate the impeller. This may occur in response to a user or operator requesting activation of the associated comfort system. Air A may be drawn into the housing 102 through one or more openings 124 in the lower cover 106 by the rotating impeller 110 of the air movement device 108. The air A is then directed by the rib structure 126 to the one or more exit openings 120 in the upper cover 104. The flange 142 surrounding the exit opening 120 may be received in a channel 26 extending through a thickness dimension of the cushion 24. The air flow AF may exit the housing 102 through the one or more exit openings 120 and may be directed into the corresponding channels 26.The air flow AF can then flow through an opening 28 defined in the cushion 24 to an occupant on the vehicle seat. This can be referred to as a push configuration or push operation of the air movement device and / or the air distribution device. The expelled air can be at ambient temperature. In further configurations, the expelled air can be conditioned, i.e., warmer or cooler than the ambient temperature. The conditioned air can be heated or cooled by passing air past a suitable air conditioning device (i.e., a heating or cooling device).

[0057] In some configurations, the air distribution device 100 and / or the air movement device 108 can be operated in a reverse or draft mode or configuration. In such a configuration, air can be drawn into the housing 102 through the one or more exhaust openings 120, captured in the open space 108, and then exhausted from the housing 102 through the one or more openings 124 in the bottom cover 106.

[0058] It is understood that any feature, structure, element, or part of the air distribution device disclosed herein may be duplicated, omitted, separated, added, or relocated. Furthermore, any feature, structure, element, or part of air distribution device 100 may be added to air distribution device 200, and vice versa.

[0059] Fig. 12 and Fig. 13 illustrate an air distribution device 100. The air distribution device of Fig. 12 and Fig. 13 can be the illustrated and described air distribution device 100, which is above and / or to Fig. 3 and Fig. 4. Thus, unless otherwise stated, the description with respect to Fig. 3 and Fig. 4 to the air distribution device 100 of Fig. 12 and Fig. 13 (and / or any other distribution device disclosed herein) and vice versa. The air distribution device 100 includes a housing 102. The housing 102 may include a first upper cover or layer 104, an opposing second lower cover or layer 106, and a space 107 defined therebetween.

[0060] The upper and lower covers or layers 104, 106 may be connected to each other by one or more fastening means. The one or more fastening means may be or include any one or more of the fastening means disclosed herein. As may be Fig. 14, the one or more fastening means may include one or more prongs, tabs, or projections 119 configured to engage one or more corresponding recesses or notches 121 in the opposing cover. For example, the top cover 104 may include one or more prongs, tabs, or projections 119, and the bottom cover 106 may include one or more recesses or notches 121 for engaging the prongs, tabs, or projections 119. Of course, the one or more prongs, tabs, or projections 119 may be included instead of, or on, the bottom cover 106, and the one or more corresponding recesses 121 may be included instead of, or on the top cover 104. This may be in addition to, or instead of, the use of screws or other fastening means.The use of bosses 119 instead of screws may be advantageous for reducing costs, assembly time, weight, or a combination thereof.

[0061] The first or upper cover 104 may include one or more attachment features 123. An attachment feature 123 may be a structure configured to secure the housing 100 to the vehicle seat and / or to one or more components of the vehicle seat. For example, the one or more attachment features 123 may be a clip or clamp configured to engage or connect the distribution device 100 to the seat cushion, the seat frame, the seat suspension, or a combination thereof. In the Fig. In the example illustrated in Figure 14, the attachment feature 123 is a groove, slot, clip, or notch configured to engage a wire or other structure of the seat frame or seat suspension. In other configurations, the one or more attachment features 123 may be a pin, a fastener, an adhesive, double-sided tape, hook-and-loop fastener, a pressure-sensitive adhesive or glue, or a combination thereof. The first or top cover 104 may include an opening or recess 125 through which the cable or wire 132 may pass or extend.

[0062] The air distribution device 100 may include an air moving device 108. The air distribution device 100 and / or the air moving device 108 may include a connector 112. The connector 112 may electrically connect the air distribution device 100 and / or the air moving device 108 to a controller. The controller may be a computer or processor associated with, or part of, the vehicle seat, the climate control system, the vehicle, or a combination thereof. The controller may be operative to turn the air distribution device 100 and / or the air moving device 108 ON and / or OFF, and / or to regulate a speed and / or temperature of air expelled from the air moving device 100, and / or a duration and / or frequency of operation of the air moving device 108.

[0063] The second or lower cover 106 may include one or more air guiding structures or rib structures 126. The one or more air guiding structures or rib structures 126 may also be referred to as one or more vanes. The one or more air guiding structures, rib structures, or vanes 126 may have a similar structure and / or function to the vanes shown and described in Applicant's own PCT publication WO 2019 / 112823A1 (PCT / US2018 / 062425 filed November 26, 2018), which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety for all purposes. For example, the one or more air guiding structures or rib structures or vanes 126 may have a size, structure, shape, orientation, and / or position like the vanes 62 shown in Fig. 11B, Fig. 11C, Fig. 12B, Fig. 12C at element 62 of the aforementioned PCT publication WO 2019 / 112823A1.

[0064] The one or more air guiding structures or rib structures 126 may have a similar purpose or function as those illustrated and described above in the previous figures, including guiding or directing the air flow to the one or more outlet devices 120. In contrast to the continuous air guiding structure or rib structure 126 in Fig. 6, the one or more air guiding structures or rib structures 126 are in Fig. 14 and Fig. 15 is not continuous. Not continuous means that there is a space or gap between adjacently positioned rib structures 126 or vanes. The one or more air vanes or rib structures 126 may comprise virtually any shape. For example, the one or more air vanes or rib structures 126 may have a teardrop or arrow shape, with one end of the structure 126 being narrower or smaller than an opposite end of the structure 126. Other air vanes or rib structures 126 or vanes may have a curved or arcuate shape, such as those at reference numeral 126'. The vanes 126' may be curved in the direction of impeller rotation or in a direction opposite to the direction of impeller rotation.

[0065] Fig. 15 illustrates the operation of the air distribution device 100. During use, a computer or processor of the vehicle seat and / or the vehicle can turn the air movement device ON and rotate the impeller 110. Air A can be drawn into the housing 102 through one or more openings 124 in the lower cover 106 by the rotating impeller 110 of the air movement device 108. The air A is then directed by the rib structure or the guide devices 126 to the one or more outlet openings 120 in the upper cover 104. The air flow AF can exit the housing 102 through the one or more outlet openings 120 and can be directed into the one or more channels or vents in the cushion (see, for example, Fig. 11).

[0066] Fig. 16 and Fig. 17 illustrate an air distribution device 200. The features of the air distribution device 200 may be similar to the features of the above-described air distribution device 100 in the previous figures. Elements that are similar to the air distribution device 100 in terms of structure and / or function of the air distribution device 200 are designated by reference numerals with the suffix 100. Statements regarding the structure of the air distribution device 100 may apply to the air distribution device 200 and vice versa, unless otherwise noted.

[0067] The air distribution device 200 includes a housing 202. The housing 202 may include a first or upper cover 204 and an opposite second or lower cover 206 and a space 207 defined therebetween.

[0068] The air distribution device 200 may include an air movement device 208 comprising an impeller 210 ( Fig. 18). The air distribution device 200 and / or the air movement device 208 may include a connector 212 for electrically connecting the air distribution device 200 and / or the air movement device 208 to a controller 214. The controller 214 may be part of a computer or processor associated with the vehicle seat, the climate control system, the vehicle, or a combination thereof.

[0069] Fig. Figure 18 illustrates the air distribution device 200. The first or top cover 204 may comprise a generally planar substrate. The top cover 204 may include one or more exit openings 220 through which air may be drawn, sucked, or drawn into the housing 202. The top cover 204 may include one or more mounting holes 222.

[0070] The second or opposite lower cover 206 may include a generally planar substrate including an opening 224 through which a portion 218 of the air moving device 208 and / or the impeller 210 may extend. The opening 224 may be defined in a curved or raised area 225. The curved or raised area may be elevated relative to a planar surface 227 or inner surface 244 of the lower cover 206. In some configurations, the air moving device 208 may be integrated with the lower cover 206. This may mean that the air moving device 208 or the housing 230 encompasses the lower cover 206.

[0071] The curved region 225 in the lower cover 206 may be complementary or opposite to a corresponding curved or raised region 229 of the upper cover 204.

[0072] To install the air distribution device 200, one or more fasteners 234 can be inserted into and / or through the mounting holes 232, 228, 222 in the top cover 204, the air movement device 208, and the bottom cover 206. One or more adhesives, tapes, welds, high-frequency welds, etc. can be used to secure or connect the periphery of the top and bottom covers and / or to prevent air leakage therebetween. In the installed state, the curved portions 225, 229 can be in contact, or a gap can be defined therebetween. In other configurations, one or more prongs or projections can be used to connect the two halves 204, 206 together, as described above. Fig. 14 is discussed.

[0073] In the installed state, the impeller 210 can be arranged between the upper and lower covers 204, 206. In the installed state, the impeller 210 can be arranged under the upper cover. In the installed state, the impeller 210 can be arranged under the lower cover. In the installed state, the impeller 210 can be positioned in the curved or raised area 225 and under the curved or raised area 229. In the installed state, the impeller 210 can be at least partially positioned in both curved or raised areas 225, 229.

[0074] The top cover 204 may have a generally planar and / or rectangular shape. However, in other configurations, the top cover 204 may have a different shape, such as a square, a round, an oval, a diamond, or any other polygonal shape. In further configurations, the shape may have any number of curved sides.

[0075] The top cover 204 may include a flange 236. The flange 236 may surround a periphery of the cover 204. A wall 238 may be defined between the flange 236 and the top or outer surface 240. The top surface 240 includes the opening and the one or more exit ports 220. The wall 238 may be generally perpendicular to the flange 236 and / or the top surface 240; however, in some configurations, the wall 238 may be disposed at a non-perpendicular angle to the flange 236 and / or the top surface 240. In some configurations, the wall 238 may include one or more exit ports 220. In some configurations, the wall 238 may be omitted and the flange 236 and the top surface 240 may be disposed in the same plane.

[0076] The top cover 204 may include one or more outlet openings 220. An airflow generated by the air moving device 208 may be drawn out of the housing 202 through the one or more outlet openings 220. The one or more outlet openings 220 in the top cover 204 may be generally circular, as shown. In other configurations, the one or more outlet openings 220 may have a different shape, such as a square, an oval, a diamond, or any other polygonal shape. In further configurations, the one or more outlet openings 220 may have any number of curved sides.

[0077] The one or more outlet openings 220 may be aligned with one or more channels or vents 26, 28 defined in the seat cushion 24 ( Fig. 11).

[0078] The top cover 204 may include an interior surface 251. The interior surface 251 may face an interior surface 244 of the bottom cover 206. The interior surface 251 may face the interior 207 of the housing 202. The interior surface 251 may include a rib structure 226 or baffles. The rib structure 226 or baffles may surround the opening 216 in the top cover 204. The rib structure 226 may surround the one or more exit openings 220 in the top cover 204. The rib structure 226 may include a structure effective to direct or guide airflow from the one or more exit openings 220 in the top cover 204 to the air moving device 208. The rib structure 226 may have similar features and functions as the rib structure or vanes discussed above.

[0079] In some configurations, the rib structure 226 may be positioned in addition to or instead of the bottom cover 204.

[0080] Fig. Figure 20 illustrates the air distribution device 200 in use. Like the air distribution device 100, the air distribution device 200 may be mounted to the cushion and / or to a frame or suspension of the vehicle seat. The air distribution device 200 may be received in a recess or depression formed in the bottom or B-side of the cushion. The air distribution device 200 may be mounted to the cushion and / or to the frame or suspension with one or more fastening means, such as pins, screws, tape, double-sided tape, an adhesive, or a combination thereof. The air distribution device 200 may include any of the fastening mechanisms disclosed herein.

[0081] During use, a computer or processor of the vehicle seat and / or the vehicle can turn the air movement device 208 ON. Air A can be drawn from the vehicle seat or cushion into the housing 202 via one or more openings 220 in the top cover 204 through the rotating impeller 210 of the air movement device 208. The air A is then directed by the rib structure 226 to the impeller 210 of the air movement device 208. The air flow AF can exit the housing 202 in an area between a lower surface 209 of the bottom cover 206 and the housing of the air movement device 208. This can be referred to as a draft configuration or draft operation of the air movement device and / or the air distribution device. As shown in Fig. 20, in the air moving device 208, the blades of the impeller are positioned partly in or inside the housing 202 and partly outside or below the bottom cover 106 of the housing 202.

[0082] Fig. 21 and Fig. 22 illustrate an air distribution device 200. The features of the air distribution device 200 may be similar to the features of the above-described air distribution device 100, 200 in the previous figures. Elements that are similar in structure and / or function of the air distribution device 200 to the previously mentioned air distribution devices are designated by the same reference numerals or by reference numerals to which 100 has been added. Statements regarding the structure of the air distribution device 100 may apply to the air distribution device 200 and vice versa, unless otherwise noted. The air distribution device 200 comprises a housing 202. The housing 202 may comprise a first or upper cover 204 and an opposite second or lower cover 206 and a space 207 defined therebetween. As may be seen in Fig. 23 and Fig. 24, the upper and lower covers 204, 206 are connected to each other via a connector 260. The connector 260 can be a film hinge or material from the manufacturing process of the covers 204, 206. This means that the covers 204, 206 can be formed in an injection molding or stamping process and connected to each other via the connector 260. The two halves 204, 206 can then be joined at the connector 260 or the hinge in the Fig. 23 and Fig. 24. Although the connector 260 is shown at the long ends of the covers 204, 206, the connector may instead be positioned at the short ends of the covers 204, 206 (i.e., at the side walls perpendicular to where the connector 260 is shown here).

[0083] The air distribution device 200 may include an air movement device 208 that includes an impeller. The air distribution device 200 and / or the air movement device 208 may include a connector 212 for electrically connecting the air distribution device 200 and / or the air movement device 208 to a controller 214. The controller 214 may be part of a computer or processor associated with the vehicle seat, the climate control system, the vehicle, or a combination thereof.

[0084] The upper and / or lower covers 204, 206 may include the attachment feature 223 for connecting the housing 202 to the seat, cushion, or suspension structure thereof.

[0085] Fig. 23 and Fig. 24 illustrate the housing 202 in its preassembled configuration. The housing 202 includes the top and bottom covers or layers 204, 206, which are connected together by a connector or hinge 260. Fig. Figure 23 illustrates the exterior surfaces of the covers 204 that would be visible to a user after the covers 204, 206 have been folded or pivoted about the connector or hinge 260. Fig. 24 illustrates the inner surfaces of the covers 204 facing each other after the covers 204, 206 are folded around the hinge or connector 260 and define the interior space 207 of the housing 202.

[0086] The upper and lower covers 204, 206 may include one or more prongs, projections, and / or locating notches for connecting or locking the halves 204, 206 together after the covers 204, 206 are folded about the hinge or connector 260. One or more additional fastening means (adhesives, screws, welding, etc.) may also or instead be used to connect and secure the halves 204, 206 to each other. The inner surface 251 of the upper cover 204 and / or the inner surface 244 of the lower cover 206 may include one or more airfoil or rib structures 226 having the structure and / or function described herein.Additionally or instead, the outer surface 256 of the bottom cover 206 may include one or more air directing or rib structures for guiding or directing airflow as air is drawn from the housing and discharged between the bottom or outer surface 256 of the second half 206 and the housing 230 of the air moving device, such as described above. Fig. 20. The air guide or fin structure 226 and its position relative to the housing 230 of the air moving device is also discussed in Fig. 22 shown.

[0087] Fig. 25 and Fig. 26 illustrate an air distribution device 300. The features of the air distribution device 300 may be similar to the features of any of the above-described air distribution devices 100, 200 in the previous figures. Elements that are similar in structure and / or function to the air distribution device 300 of the air distribution device 100 and / or 200 are designated by reference numerals to which 200 and / or 100 have been added, respectively. Statements regarding the structure of the air distribution devices 200 and / or 100 may apply to the air distribution device 300 and vice versa, unless otherwise noted.

[0088] The air distribution device 300 may include only one cover or layer. For example, the air distribution device 300 may include the lower cover 306 and not include the upper cover (i.e., 106 and / or 206 in the previous figures). Alternatively, the air distribution device 300 may include the upper cover and not include the lower cover.

[0089] An inner surface 344 of the lower cover 306 may include one or more air baffle or rib structures 326 for guiding or directing airflow, as described above. Additionally or instead, the outer surface 356 of the lower cover 306 may include one or more air baffle or rib structures 326 for guiding or directing airflow when air is drawn from the housing and discharged between the lower or outer surface 356 of the second half 306 and the housing 330 of the air moving device, such as described above. Fig. 20 is discussed.

[0090] The air movement device 308 may be secured to the outer surface 356 of the bottom cover 306 by one or more fasteners 334. In this embodiment, the one or more fasteners 334 may be one or more ribs, prongs, or projections that engage corresponding notches or openings in the housing 330 of the air movement device 308.

[0091] The air distribution device 300 may be installed in a vehicle seat such that the inner surface 326 of the lower cover 306 faces a back side of the cushion or one or more layers of the vehicle seat. Accordingly, the back side of the cushion or one or more layers of the vehicle seat may form an upper cover for the air distribution device 300. In this case, the air movement device 308 may draw air into the interior of the device 300 (defined between the back side of the cushion and / or the cover layer of the vehicle seat) and then draw or pull air from the interior of the device 300 through the opening in the lower cover and between the housing 330 of the air movement device, similar to the above-described Fig. 16-24 depicted and described.

[0092] The air-directing structure, a fin structure, or a baffle may act to distribute air within the open space of the enclosure, to distribute air to the one or more ventilation ducts, holes, or recesses, to provide a uniform distribution of air, a laminar distribution of airflow, a turbulent distribution of airflow, or a combination thereof. The one or more baffles may create a path between the one or more ventilation ducts, holes, or recesses and the air-moving device such that air flows through each of the ventilation ducts, holes, or recesses, rather than just the ventilation ducts, holes, or recesses positioned closest to the air-moving device.

[0093] The one or more baffles may be a portion of the top cover, the bottom cover, or both that extends into the open space to create a fluid barrier. The one or more baffles may be inserted into an open space between layers prior to assembling or sealing the housing. The one or more baffles may be curved, substantially straight, teardrop-shaped, triangular or airplane wing-shaped, crescent-shaped, serpentine-shaped, with a curved portion, with a straight portion, or a combination thereof. The baffles may be rounded at both ends. The baffles may be teardrop-shaped, with the width of a body decreasing from one end to the other. Baffles that are teardrop-shaped may have sides that are substantially straight, concave, convex, curved, or a combination thereof.For example, the teardrop-shaped vane may have substantially straight sides with rounded ends. For example, the teardrop-shaped vane may have a central body whose diameter is smaller than at either end of the vane. The one or more vanes may vent outwardly away from the opening where the fan or air moving device is connected to the housing. The one or more vanes may be positioned proximate a fan mounting feature (an area where the air moving device is connected to the housing) and assist in allowing air to flow between the fan and the one or more vent channels, holes, or recesses. For example, the vanes may assist the fan in directing equal amounts of air through a vent channel, hole, or recess provided on the fan.that is less than 2 cm from the fan, and simultaneously through a vent duct that is between 10 cm and 20 cm from the fan. The one or more guide devices may assist in directing air from a non-centrally positioned fan to ducts, holes, or recesses distal to the fan. For example, a fan may be positioned in an upper quarter of an enclosure, and the guide devices may assist vent ducts, holes, or recesses in a lower quarter to distribute substantially the same volume of air as vent ducts, holes, or recesses in the other three-quarters of the air distribution enclosure.For example, if the ventilation ducts, holes, or recesses are not symmetrically spaced, the vanes assist in distributing the air more evenly to each of the ventilation ducts, holes, or recesses (e.g., there may be a difference in volume distribution from vent hole to vent hole of about 50 percent or less, about 40 percent or less, preferably about 30 percent or less, more preferably about 20 percent or less, and most preferably about 10 percent or less). The symmetry of the enclosure, the position of the ventilation ducts, holes, or recesses, the position of the fan, or a combination thereof may be directly proportional to the number of vanes present in the enclosure.For example, if a fan is centrally located and the ventilation ducts, holes, or recesses are positioned symmetrically along one or more of them, two vanes may be required. If the fan is not centrally located and the ventilation ducts, holes, or recesses are positioned asymmetrically (with respect to a 4-quadrant grid, with the center being in the center of the housing), 4 or 5 or more vanes may be required. The one or more vanes may be shaped to promote the flow of air from the fan to the one or more ventilation ducts, holes, or recesses at a uniform fluid velocity. The one or more vanes may have a shape that promotes laminar flow.For example, the vanes may be generally straight, linear, with no curved sections, no concave areas, no acute angles, or a combination thereof. An acute angle may be present where the vane rotates at an angle, and the angle between two walls of the vane may be formed as an angle of about 120 degrees or less, about 105 degrees or less, about 90 degrees or less, about 65 degrees or less, or about 50 degrees or less. The one or more vanes may be configured to prevent turbulent flow, prevent open space occlusion, or both. For example, the vanes may be straight, linear, with no curved sections, no concave areas, no acute angles, or a combination thereof.An acute angle may be present where the vane rotates at an angle, and the angle between two walls of the vane may be formed as an angle of about 120 degrees or less, about 105 degrees or less, about 90 degrees or less, about 65 degrees or less, or about 50 degrees or less. For example, the cross-sectional width of the vanes may increase in the direction in which air moves away from the fan connection feature. For example, the cross-sectional width of the vanes may increase in the direction in which air moves toward the fan connection feature. The vanes may have a height that is substantially the same height as a distance between an upper layer and a lower layer of the housing. The vanes may have a height that is less than a distance between the upper layer and the lower layer of the housing.The baffles can divide the housing so that more than one fan can be used. The baffles can divide a housing so that one section can be a push section and one section can be a pull section. The housing can also be referred to as an air distribution housing.

[0094] The explanations and illustrations presented herein are intended to introduce the invention, its principles, and its practical application to others skilled in the art. The above description is intended to be illustrative and not restrictive. Those skilled in the art may adapt and apply the invention in its numerous forms as best suited to the needs of a particular application.

[0095] Accordingly, the specific embodiments of the present invention set forth herein are not intended to be exhaustive or limiting of the teachings. The scope of the teachings should therefore be determined not by reference to the above description, but instead by reference to the appended claims, along with the full range of equivalence to which such claims are entitled. The omission of any aspect of the subject matter disclosed herein in the following claims is neither a waiver of such subject matter nor should it be construed that the inventors did not consider such subject matter to be part of the disclosed subject matter.

[0096] Multiple elements or steps can be provided by a single integrated element or step. Alternatively, a single element or step can be split into separate multiple elements or steps.

[0097] The disclosure of "a" to describe an element or step is not intended to exclude additional elements or steps. For example, the disclosure of "an engine" does not limit the teachings to a single engine. Instead, the disclosure of, for example, "an engine" may include "one or more engines."

[0098] Although the terms first, second, third, etc. are used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers, and / or sections, these elements, components, regions, layers, and / or sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms may be used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer, or section from another region, layer, or section. Terms such as "first," "second," and other numerical terms used herein do not imply a sequence or order unless clearly indicated by the context. Thus, a first element, component, region, layer, or section discussed below could be referred to as a second element, component, region, layer, or section without departing from the teachings.

[0099] Spatial terms such as "inner," "outer," "beneath," "under," "lower," "above," "upper," and the like may be used herein for convenience of description to more easily describe the relationship of one element or feature to one or more other elements or features as illustrated in the figures. Spatial terms may be intended to encompass various orientations of the device in use or operation, in addition to the orientation illustrated in the figures. For example, if the device in the figures is turned over, elements described as being "below" or "below" other elements or features would then be oriented "above" the other elements or features. Thus, the exemplary term "below" can encompass both an above and below orientation.The device may also be oriented differently (rotated by 90 degrees or in other orientations), and the spatial descriptive terms used herein will be interpreted accordingly.

[0100] The invention disclosed herein by way of example may be suitably practiced in the absence of any element not specifically disclosed herein.

[0101] None of the elements, components, regions, layers, and / or sections disclosed herein are necessarily limited to a single embodiment. Rather, any of the elements, components, regions, layers, and / or sections disclosed herein may be substituted, combined, and / or modified with any of the elements, components, regions, layers, and / or sections disclosed herein to form one or more embodiments that may not be specifically illustrated or described herein.

[0102] The disclosures of all articles and references, including patent applications and publications, and test conditions, are incorporated herein by reference for all purposes. Other combinations are also possible, as will be apparent from the following claims, which are hereby incorporated by reference into the written description. List of reference symbols 10 vehicles 12 vehicle seat 14 front vehicle seat 16 rear vehicle seat 18 Backrest section 20 seating section 22 Frame / Seat suspension 12 24 cushions 25 Cover layer or other position of the seat 12 26, 28 Channels and vents in the cushion 24 100 air distribution device 102 housings 104 first or upper cover layer 106 second or lower cover layer 107 open space of the housing between the first and second layers 104, 106 108 Air movement device 110 Impeller of the air movement device 108 112 connection 114 Control 116 Opening in the first or upper cover 104 118 Section of the air movement device 108 119 prongs, lugs, projections that connect the covers 104, 106 120 Outlet openings or recesses in the first or upper cover 104 122 Mounting hole or shoulder 123 Fastening feature 124 Opening in the second or lower cover 106 125 Opening for the passage of a cable 131 126 Air guiding or rib structure 127 opposite planar areas or flanges of the covers 104, 107 128 mounting holes or shoulder 130 Air movement device housing 131 Cable or wire 132 mounting holes or flange 134 fasteners 136 Cover flange 104 140 upper surface of the cover 104 142 Flange or channel of the outlet opening 120 144 Inner surface of the second cover 106 151 Inner surface of the top cover 104 152 petals 156 Outer surface of the lower cover 106 158 flange 200 air distribution device 202 housings 204 first or upper cover 206 second or lower cover 207 Space between the covers 204, 206 208 Air movement device 209 lower surface of the lower cover 206 210 wheel 212 connection 214 Control 218 Section of the air movement device 208 220 outlet openings 222 mounting holes 223 Fastening feature 224 Opening in the second or lower cover 206 225 arched or raised area 226 Air guiding or rib structure 228 mounting holes 227 planar surface of the lower cover 206 232 mounting holes 236 Top cover flange 204 238 Wall of the upper cover 204 240 upper or outer surface of the top cover 204 244 Inner surface of the lower cover 206 251 Inner surface of the top cover 204 256 Outer surface of the lower cover 206 260 connector, hinge 300 air distribution devices QUOTES CONTAINED IN THE DESCRIPTION

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

[0000] US 63 / 356,763

[0001] WO 2019 / 112823A1

[0063] US 2018 / 062425

[0063]

Claims

[1] Air distribution device for a vehicle seat, comprising: a top cover including one or more outlet openings; a lower cover connected to the upper cover to form a housing, the lower cover including an opening; and an air moving device comprising an impeller, the impeller being positioned in the housing between the top cover and the bottom cover; wherein air is drawn into the housing by the air movement device through the opening in the bottom cover and then exhausted from the housing through the one or more outlet openings in the top cover. [2] The air distribution device of claim 1, wherein the lower cover includes a rib structure that directs the air from the opening to the one or more outlet openings. [3] The air distribution device according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the rib structure extends from an inner surface of the lower cover and contacts an inner surface of the upper cover. [4] An air distribution device according to claim 1 or any preceding claim, wherein the air distribution device has no layers in the housing between the top cover and the bottom cover. [5] An air distribution device according to claim 1 or any preceding claim, wherein the upper cover comprises a plurality of outlet openings and the plurality of outlet openings are laterally offset with respect to the opening in the lower cover. [6] An air distribution device according to claim 5 or any preceding claim, wherein each of said plurality of outlet openings comprises a flange, and said flange is received in a channel defined in a cushion of said vehicle seat. [7] Air distribution device according to claim 6 or any one of the preceding claims, wherein the air distribution device is connected to a suspension or a frame of the vehicle seat and / or the air distribution device is received in a recess defined in the cushion of the vehicle seat. [8] An air distribution device according to claim 2 or any preceding claim, wherein the rib structure comprises a plurality of petals. [9] An air distribution device according to claim 8 or any preceding claim, wherein the rib structure comprises one or more vertices. [10] An air distribution device according to claim 9 or any preceding claim, wherein the rib structure comprises two vertices and one of the two vertices is offset from a horizontal central axis of the housing. [11] An air distribution device according to claim 9 or any preceding claim, wherein the rib structure comprises two vertices and one of the two vertices is aligned with a horizontal central axis of the housing. [12] An air distribution device according to claim 5 or any preceding claim, wherein the air distribution system comprises outlet openings aligned along an axis parallel to and offset from a horizontal central axis of the air distribution device. [13] An air distribution device according to claim 12 or any preceding claim, wherein the air distribution system comprises outlet openings aligned along an axis parallel to and offset from a vertical central axis of the air distribution device. [14] An air distribution device according to claim 1 or any preceding claim, wherein the air moving device is connected to an inner surface of the upper cover, an inner surface of the lower cover, or both. [15] An air distribution device according to claim 1 or any preceding claim, wherein the air distribution device comprises a seal surrounding a peripheral edge of the housing. [16] An air distribution device according to claim 1 or any preceding claim, wherein the air moving device comprises an impeller and an axis of rotation of the impeller is aligned with a central axis of the housing. [17] An air distribution device according to claim 1 or any preceding claim, wherein the upper cover, the lower cover or both are made of a rigid material. [18] Air distribution device for a vehicle seat, comprising: a top cover including one or more outlet openings; a lower cover connected to the upper cover to form a housing, the lower cover including an opening; and an air movement device comprising an impeller, the impeller being positioned at least partially beneath the lower cover; wherein air is drawn into the housing by the air movement device through the one or more outlet openings in the top cover and then exhausted from the housing through the opening in the bottom cover. [19] The air distribution device of claim 18, wherein the upper cover includes a rib structure that directs the air from the one or more outlet openings to the opening in the lower cover. [20] An air distribution device according to claim 18 or claim 19, wherein the rib structure extends from an inner surface of the upper cover and contacts an inner surface of the lower cover. [21] An air distribution device according to claim 18 or any preceding claim, wherein the air distribution device has no layers in the housing between the top cover and the bottom cover. [22] An air distribution device according to claim 18 or any preceding claim, wherein the upper cover comprises a plurality of outlet openings and the plurality of outlet openings are laterally offset with respect to the opening in the lower cover. [23] An air distribution device according to claim 20 or any preceding claim, wherein each of said plurality of outlet openings comprises a flange, and said flange is received in a channel defined in a cushion of said vehicle seat. [24] An air distribution device according to claim 23 or any preceding claim, wherein the air distribution device is connected to a suspension or frame of the vehicle seat and / or the air distribution device is received in a recess defined in the cushion of the vehicle seat. [25] An air distribution device according to claim 19 or any preceding claim, wherein the rib structure comprises a plurality of petals. [26] An air distribution device according to claim 25 or any preceding claim, wherein the rib structure comprises one or more vertices. [27] An air distribution device according to claim 26 or any preceding claim, wherein the rib structure comprises two vertices and one of the two vertices is offset from a horizontal central axis of the housing. [28] An air distribution device according to claim 26 or any preceding claim, wherein the rib structure comprises two vertices and one of the two vertices is aligned with a horizontal central axis of the housing. [29] An air distribution device according to claim 22 or any preceding claim, wherein the air distribution system comprises outlet openings aligned along an axis parallel to and offset from a horizontal central axis of the air distribution device. [30] An air distribution device according to claim 29 or any preceding claim, wherein the air distribution system comprises outlet openings aligned along an axis parallel to and offset from a vertical central axis of the air distribution device. [31] An air distribution device according to claim 18 or any preceding claim, wherein the air movement device is connected to an outer surface of the lower cover. [32] An air distribution device according to claim 18 or any preceding claim, wherein the air distribution device comprises a seal surrounding a peripheral edge of the housing. [33] An air distribution device according to claim 18 or any preceding claim, wherein the air moving device comprises an impeller and an axis of rotation of the impeller is aligned with a central axis of the housing. [34] An air distribution device according to claim 18 or any preceding claim, wherein the upper cover, the lower cover or both are made of a rigid material. [35] An air distribution device according to claim 18 or any preceding claim, wherein the lower cover comprises a planar surface and a curved or raised portion relative to the planar surface, the impeller being positioned at least partially in the curved or raised portion. [36] An air distribution device according to claim 35 or any preceding claim, wherein the curved or raised portion extends in a direction of the top cover.

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