Combined seat heating and pneumatic system and method for manufacturing and installing the same

Abstract

A comfort system for a vehicle seat comprising a heating system having a carrier and one or more heating elements configured to generate heat, and a pneumatic system having a carrier and one or more air cells configured to be inflated and deflated; wherein the carrier of the pneumatic system is connected to the carrier of the heating system at one or more connection areas before the comfort system is installed in the vehicle seat.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority to US 63 / 432,779, filed December 15, 2022, and US 63 / 462,574, filed April 28, 2023, which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety for all purposes. AREA

[0002] These teachings relate to a vehicle seat and, in particular, to a comfort system for a vehicle seat comprising a combined seat heater and a pneumatic system, to a method of manufacturing or assembling a combined seat heater and a pneumatic system, and to a method of installing the combined seat heater and the pneumatic system in a vehicle seat. BACKGROUND

[0003] Some vehicle seats incorporate one or more amenities to enhance occupant comfort. For example, some vehicle seats include one or more thermal systems to provide heating and / or cooling functions to the vehicle seat occupant. Other vehicle seats include one or more pneumatic systems to provide massage and / or lumbar functions to the occupant.

[0004] While such comfort features are provided to improve occupant comfort and satisfaction, such systems can undesirably complicate vehicle seat design, requiring multiple comfort systems from multiple suppliers to be supplied to a vehicle seat manufacturer, and complicating and increasing the time and number of procedures for vehicle seat assembly. It may be desirable to improve the current state of the art.

[0005] For example, it may be desirable to reduce the number of separate or individual comfort systems in a vehicle seat without reducing the number of comfort features available in a vehicle seat. It may be desirable to combine certain comfort systems or amenities to reduce the number of separate systems delivered to a vehicle seat assembly facility and to reduce the number of separate systems that must be installed into a vehicle seat. SUMMARY

[0006] These teachings provide a vehicle seat, a comfort system for a vehicle seat comprising a combined seat heater and a pneumatic system, a method of manufacturing or assembling a combined seat heater and a pneumatic system, and a method of installing the combined seat heater and the pneumatic system in a vehicle seat.

[0007] The present teaching provides a comfort system for a vehicle seat. The comfort system according to this teaching may include a thermal system and a pneumatic system. The thermal system and the pneumatic system may be combined or interconnected to form the comfort system. The comfort system may include a spacer layer between the thermal system and the pneumatic system. The comfort system according to this teaching may advantageously reduce the number of separate or individual systems in a vehicle seat without reducing the number of comfort features available in the vehicle seat.

[0008] These teachings provide a comfort system for a vehicle seat and a method of manufacturing the same, comprising: a thermal system having a carrier; a pneumatic system having a carrier; an optional spacer layer between the thermal system carrier and the pneumatic system carrier; and one or more connection regions where the thermal system carrier is connected to the pneumatic system carrier. The spacer layer may not be disposed between the thermal system carrier and the pneumatic system carrier in the one or more connection regions. The one or more connection regions may be located outside or beyond a perimeter or base of the spacer layer. The spacer layer may have a recess, and one or more connection regions may extend through the recess.The carrier of the thermal system can be directly connected to the carrier of the pneumatic system in one or more connection areas. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Fig. 1 is a side view of a vehicle and a vehicle seat. Fig. 2 is a perspective view of a vehicle seat incorporating a comfort system. Fig. Figure 3A is a perspective view of a heating system. Fig. Figure 4A is a perspective view of a pneumatic system. Fig. Figure 4B is a perspective view of a pneumatic system. Fig. 5 shows the comfort system. Fig. Figure 6A is a rear perspective view of the comfort system. Fig. Figure 6B is a front perspective view of the comfort system attached to a seat cushion of the backrest portion of a vehicle seat. Fig. Figure 7 is a detailed view showing the connection areas in the upper groove. Fig. Figure 8 is a detailed view showing the connection areas in the middle groove. Fig. 9 is a cross-section of the comfort system attached to a seat cushion of the vehicle seat. Fig. 10 is a perspective view of a thermal system. Fig. 11A is a perspective view of a massage system. Fig. 11B is a detailed view of the Fig. 11A and 11B designated areas. Fig. 12 is a front view of a spacer layer. Fig. 13 is a view from below or from behind of a comfort system. Fig. 14 is a view from below or from behind of a comfort system. Fig. 15 is a view from below or from behind of a comfort system. Fig. 16 is a bottom or rear view of a comfort system. Fig. 17 is a side exploded view of a comfort system and a seat cushion. Fig. 18 is a side exploded view of a comfort system and a seat cushion. Fig. 19 is a side exploded view of a comfort system and a seat cushion. Fig. 20 is a side exploded view of a comfort system and a seat cushion. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0009] These teachings provide a comfort system. The comfort system may be an insert or assembly that includes two or more comfort functions. The comfort system may be a combination of two or more systems that are typically installed into a vehicle seat as individual components. For example, the comfort system may include a pneumatic system, such as a massage or lumbar support system, and a thermal system, such as a heating system and / or a cooling system. Advantageously, the comfort system according to these teachings can be installed into a vehicle seat in a single installation process, as opposed to two or more individual steps or processes.

[0010] The comfort system according to this teaching can be assembled or connected away from the vehicle seat installation location or offline. Alternatively, the comfort system according to this teaching can be assembled or connected online before the comfort system is attached to or installed in the vehicle seat. In some configurations, the two systems or components of the system can be attached before the comfort system is installed in the vehicle seat. Alternatively, the two systems or components of the system can be attached during installation of the comfort system in the vehicle seat or after installation of the comfort system in the vehicle seat.

[0011] The comfort system according to this teaching utilizes one or more spacer layers. A spacer layer may serve to reduce the show-through or visibility of one or more elements or components of the comfort system through an A-surface of the vehicle seat. The spacer layer may serve to provide additional cushioning and / or support to an occupant of the vehicle seat. The spacer layer may be sufficiently thick to provide cushioning and additional comfort to the occupant and to reduce the show-through of the comfort features through an A-side of the vehicle seat, but in such a way that the massage or lumbar functions of the pneumatic system are not impaired.The spacer layer can serve to change or modify the feel of the seat, or to increase or decrease the intensity of the massage or lumbar functions of the pneumatic system as seen and / or felt by an occupant, or both. The spacer layer can be an air-permeable material or a layer. The spacer layer can serve to facilitate even airflow distribution. The spacer layer can be an air-impermeable material or a layer. The spacer layer can be made of fabric, nonwoven and / or felt material, spunbond, polyester, PET (polyethylene terephthalate), foam, plush foam, or a combination thereof. The spacer layer can be made of felt or similar material, or of a spacer fabric such as that offered by Mueller Textile in Germany.

[0012] The spacer layer may be designed to generally maintain its three-dimensional shape when subjected to compression and / or other types of forces. The spacer layer may have internal pores or passageways through which air or other fluid can flow. For example, the spacer layer may have an internal grid or other structure with internal openings. The spacer layer may be a screen or a mesh. The spacer layer may be compressible, elastic, resilient, or a combination thereof. The spacer layer may be breathable, compression-resistant, and / or made of a foam, plastic, and / or polymer material. The spacer layer may have sufficient resilience to prevent the spacer layer from collapsing when an occupant sits on or leans against the vehicle seat.The spacer layer may comprise an upper mesh layer, a lower mesh layer, and a plurality of fibers extending between them.

[0013] The spacer layer may be composed of one or a variety of materials, such as a honeycomb foam, a material having channels and passages formed therein, 3D materials or spacer fabrics, mesh netting, spacer sheets, etc. For example, a preferred material is sold under the trade name 3MESH® and is commercially available from Mueller Textil GmbH, Germany, or Mueller Textiles, Inc. in Rhode Island, USA. Other preferred spacer layers are disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 8,777,320, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0014] The carrier of the heating system can serve to carry or support the one or more conductors. The carrier can be a flexible substrate. The carrier can be elastic. The carrier can be elastically deformable. The carrier can be plastically deformable. The carrier can be wrinkle-free. The carrier can be shaped to complement the vehicle seat, the backrest portion, the seat portion, the massage system, or a combination thereof. The carrier can be spandex, rubber, an elastomer, woven, nonwoven, extruded, a solid material, a porous film, woven, nonwoven, polyester, or a combination thereof. The carrier can be a flexible substrate. The carrier can be extensible. The carrier can be extensible about 1 mm or more, about 2 mm or more, about 3 mm or more, or about 5 mm or more. The extensibility of the carrier can be about 5 cm or less, about 3 cm or less, or about 1 cm or less.The support can be sufficiently stretchable so that the substrate moves with the pneumatic system without wrinkling or hindering the pneumatic system in its predetermined movements. The material properties of the support can make the substrate flexible. The support can have one or more features that provide flexibility, such as one or more slots, recesses, openings, through-holes, or the like. The heating system support can be made of the same material as the pneumatic system support. The heating system support can be made of a different material than the pneumatic system support. In some configurations, the support can prevent stretching or deformation. That is, the support can be made of a rigid or substantially rigid material.

[0015] The one or more heating elements may be configured to generate heat. The one or more heating elements may be connected to the flexible substrate. The one or more heating elements may generate heat when powered. The one or more heating elements may include an insulator surrounding a metallic portion of the heating elements. The one or more heating elements may be a wire. The one or more heating elements may be connected to one or more power cables, one or more temperature sensors, or both.

[0016] The one or more heating elements may be conductors composed of one or a variety of materials. Such materials may include metals, plastics, polymeric materials, elastomers, glass and optical materials, organic materials, inorganic materials, combinations thereof, or the like. Example metals from which the conductive element may be partially or entirely composed include, but are not limited to, copper, aluminum, silver, tin, tungsten, gold, platinum, and the like. Example polymeric materials from which the conductive element may be partially or entirely composed include conductive polymers such as polyaniline, conjugated polymers, doped polymers, combinations thereof, or the like. In one embodiment, the conductive element may be provided as polymeric material comprising a dispersion of metal or carbon black.

[0017] The carrier of the pneumatic system may serve to support or support the one or more bladders or air cells. The carrier may be a flexible substrate. The carrier may be elastic. The carrier may be elastically deformable. The carrier may be plastically deformable. The carrier may be wrinkle-free. The carrier may be shaped to complement the vehicle seat, the backrest portion, the seat portion, the heating system, or a combination thereof. The carrier may be spandex, rubber, an elastomer, woven, nonwoven, extruded, a solid material, a porous film, woven, nonwoven, polyester, or a combination thereof. The carrier may be a flexible substrate. The carrier may be extensible. The carrier may be extensible about 1 mm or more, about 2 mm or more, about 3 mm or more, or about 5 mm or more. The extensibility of the carrier may be about 5 cm or less, about 3 cm or less, or about 1 cm or less.The support can be sufficiently stretchable so that the substrate moves with the pneumatic system without wrinkling or preventing the pneumatic system from performing a predetermined movement. The material properties of the support can make the support flexible. The support can have one or more features that provide flexibility, such as one or more slots, recesses, openings, through-holes, or the like. The pneumatic system support can be made of the same material as the heating system support. The pneumatic system support can be made of a different material than the heating system support. In some configurations, the support can prevent stretching or deformation. That is, the support can be made of a rigid or substantially rigid material.

[0018] One or more of the connectors disclosed herein may be used to connect the heating system to the pneumatic system to form the comfort system or unitary assembly disclosed herein. The one or more connectors may also, or instead, connect the assembly to a cushion or frame or suspension of the vehicle seat. The one or more connectors may be provided at the one or more connection areas. However, in some configurations, one or more connectors may be provided in areas other than the connection areas. This may be a situation where, for example, additional connections are required to ensure that the two supports remain connected and secured, where the one or more connectors may pass through the thickness of the pneumatic system support, a heating system support, or both.In some configurations, the connector can pass through only one of the supports. In some configurations, the connector can pass through both supports and into the cushion. Such a connector can also ensure that the two supports remain attached to each other, securing or connecting the comfort system to the cushion. In some configurations, the connector can deform one or both supports and / or the cushion. For example, if the connector is a hot or RF weld or another type of seal or adhesive, one or more of the supports and the cushion can be deformed. In other configurations, the connector can be a removable connector or a fastener, such as a push pin or clip. This allows the supports to be separated in the event that maintenance of the massage system, heating system, comfort system, cushion, seat, or any combination thereof is required.

[0019] The one or more connectors may be fasteners that can be used to attach or connect the one or more air bladders or cells to the massage system support, to attach or connect the heating system support to the massage system support, to connect the spacer layer to one or both supports, to connect or secure the comfort system to the vehicle seat or seat foam, etc.The one or more connectors may be or include one or more fastening components and / or fastening methods including: lamination, tape, double-sided tape, single-sided tape, pressure-sensitive adhesive, glue, epoxies, hog rings, stitching, sewing, welding, radio frequency welding, IR welding, RF welding, ultrasonic welding, sealing, heat sealing, hot gluing, chemical fusing, staples, rivets, pins, buttons, snaps, bands, straps, or a combination thereof.

[0020] Fig. 1 shows a vehicle 10. The vehicle 10 includes one or more vehicle seats 12.

[0021] Fig. 2 illustrates a vehicle seat 12. The vehicle seat 12 includes a seat portion 14 and a backrest portion 16. The seat portion 14 includes a cushion 18, and the backrest portion 16 includes a cushion 20. The bolsters 18, 20 may be individual bolsters for each portion 14, 16. The cushions 18, 20 may be a combined cushion extending over both portions 14, 16. The cushion 18, 20 may be provided with a cover or trim. The vehicle seat 12, the seat portion 14, and / or the backrest portion 16 may include a comfort system 100. The comfort system 100 may include a thermal system (i.e., a heating system and / or a cooling system) 102 and a pneumatic system 104.

[0022] Fig. 3A and Fig. 3B each show a heating system 102. The heating system 102 may be of the type disclosed in any of the following U.S. patents: 7,560,670; 7,285,748; 7,223,948; 6,838,647; 6,710,303; 6,150,642; 5,451,747; 4,931,627; and 4,777,351 and / or U.S. Patent Publication Nos. US20200406797 and 2010 / 0289303, which are expressly incorporated herein by reference for all purposes.

[0023] The heating system 102 may include a support 106. The support 106 may be configured as a base or structure upon which elements of the heating system 102 are mounted or supported. The support 106 may be a fabric material provided as a sheet or plate. The shape of the support 106 may be provided in a variety of configurations, which may depend on various factors such as the design of the vehicle seat, the areas to be heated by the heating system 102, etc. In some configurations, the support 106 may have a simple rectangular or square shape. In other configurations, the support 106 may have a complex geometry or shape, as shown in Fig. 3. The carrier 106 in Fig. 3 can be used to provide heat to other areas of the seat, including the side bolsters.

[0024] The carrier 106 may be made of a suitable material. The material may consist of or comprise one or more nonwoven materials and / or felt materials. The carrier 106 may extend between opposite upper and lower end edges 107, 109 and between opposite side edges 111.

[0025] The heating system 102 may include one or more heating elements 108. The one or more heating elements 108 may be one or more wires or conductors that are on, under, or at least partially integrated into a thickness of the support 106. The shape of the one or more heating elements 108 may be provided in a variety of configurations, which may also depend on various factors such as the design of the vehicle seat. For example, the one or more heating elements 108 may wind, meander, zigzag, etc. on the support 106. The one or more heating elements 108 may be powered by a power source 110 and then generate heat in response to the power supply. The heat may warm the surface of the vehicle seat, thus providing warmth to the occupants of the vehicle seat.

[0026] Fig. 4A and Fig. 4B show a pneumatic system 104. The pneumatic system 104 may be of the type disclosed in U.S. Patent Publication No. US2012 / 0313420 and / or US21013 / 0127226, which is expressly incorporated herein by reference for all purposes.

[0027] The pneumatic system 104 may be configured to provide massage and / or lumbar functions and amenities to an occupant of the vehicle seat.

[0028] The pneumatic system 104 may include a carrier 112. While the pneumatic system 104 in Fig. 4A as being comprised of two separate parts or supports 112, the pneumatic system 104 may also comprise only a single support 112, or the system 104 may comprise more than two discrete supports 112. The number of supports 112, their size, and / or their shape may depend on the configuration of the vehicle seat. The support 112 of the pneumatic system 104 may extend between an upper and a lower end edge 113, 115.

[0029] The support 112 may be a fabric material provided as a sheet or plate. The support 112 may be made of any suitable material, such as one or more fabrics, nonwoven and / or felt materials, spunbond materials, polyester materials, a PET (polyethylene terephthalate) material, or a combination thereof. The support 112 may be made of the same material as the heater support or a different material.

[0030] The support 112 may include one or more openings 136. The one or more openings 136 may be provided in the support 112 to allow one or more connectors to extend through the support 112 to assist in connecting the support 112 of the pneumatic system 104 to the support 106 of the heating system 102, to the cushion 20, or a combination thereof. The one or more openings 136 may be provided to allow air to flow through the system 100, for example, for ventilated seating applications. The one or more openings 136 may be provided to allow the support 112 or the system 100 to be bent or curved without wrinkles forming in the support or system.

[0031] The pneumatic system 104 may include one or more bladders or air cells 114. The one or more bladders or air cells may be inflated and deflated with air or other liquids or gases to adjust a contour, size, and / or shape of the air cells 114 to provide one or more comfort functions, such as massage and / or lumbar support. The air, fluid, or gas may be supplied to the one or more air cells 114 via one or more air sources 116, such as pumps, actuators, inflators, tanks, or the like, or a combination thereof, connected to the one or more air cells 114 via one or more hoses 117.

[0032] By filling and emptying one or more of the air cells 114, certain comfort functions can be realized in the vehicle seat, such as lumbar applications, seat depth adjustments, massage functions and / or occupant warnings.

[0033] The one or more air cells 114 may be made of a suitable material, such as TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane) or other plastic or rubber or rubber-like material.

[0034] The one or more air cells 114 may be attached or secured to the carrier 112 via one or more connectors 118. The one or more air cells 114 may be attached or secured to adjacent air cells 114 via one or more connectors 118. The one or more connectors 118 may serve to connect or secure the one or more air cells 114 to the carrier 112 and / or adjacent air cells 114 to prevent or limit inadvertent separation or movement of the air cells 114 relative to each other and to the carrier 112. However, the one or more connectors 118 still allow the one or more air cells 114 to be inflated and deflated to allow them to expand, contact, and move to perform the desired comfort function.The one or more connectors 118 may include any number and combination of adhesive, welding, radio frequency welding, RF welding, ultrasonic welding, sealing, heat sealing, sewing, stitching, pins, hook and loop fasteners, buttons, snaps, staples, adhesive tape, double-sided tape, single-sided tape, bands, straps, cuffs, and the like, or any combination thereof.

[0035] Fig. 5 shows the comfort system 100. The comfort system 100 includes the heating system 102 and the pneumatic system 104. The carrier 112 of the pneumatic system 104 can be connected to the carrier 106 of the heating system 102 in one or more connection areas 120 to form a unitary assembly and the comfort system 100.

[0036] The one or more connection areas 120 may be provided on one or both sides of a longitudinal axis A of the heating system 102 or comfort system 100 or the pneumatic system 104. The connection areas 120 may be provided symmetrically on both sides of a longitudinal axis A. However, in certain other configurations, the connection areas 120 may be provided entirely on one side of the longitudinal axis A or asymmetrically to the longitudinal axis A.

[0037] The connecting areas 120 may be spaced from one or more through holes 136 defined in the carrier 106 of the heating system 102 (see also Fig. 7). That is, the connection areas 120 may be provided in an area of ​​the comfort system 100 that does not interfere with one or more of the through-holes 136 in the carrier 106, which may be used to route a connector through a seat cover or trim layer to the cushion 20 to secure the seat cover or trim layer to the cushion 20 with the comfort system 100 therebetween. Furthermore, the one or more connection areas 120 may be spaced apart from any openings in the system 100 used for routing cables or sensors, such as an occupant sensor, temperature sensor, etc. However, in some configurations, one or more openings may be provided in a connection area 120 if space is required.

[0038] One or more of the connection areas 120 may include or comprise one or more connectors 122. The one or more connectors 122 may include any number or combination of adhesive, welding, radio frequency welding, RF welding, ultrasonic welding, sealing, heat sealing, sewing, stitching, pins, hook-and-loop fasteners, buttons, snaps, staples, adhesive tape, double-sided adhesive tape, single-sided adhesive tape, and the like, or any combination thereof. The one or more connection areas 120 and / or connectors 122 may be provided in areas that do not affect the performance of the heating system 102 and / or the pneumatic system 104.

[0039] The one or more connection areas 120 may be a cushion or cover a suitable surface area of ​​the supports of the heating system and the pneumatic system to ensure a suitable and sufficient connection between the two connections. Since the connection areas 120 serve to connect the two supports, and thus the two systems, to form a single, unified assembly, it is important that the connection areas 120 and the number of connection areas 120 are sufficient to maintain the connection over the service life of the assembly.

[0040] The support 112 of the pneumatic system 104 may include one or more tabs 124. The one or more tabs 124 may extend laterally outward from or beyond a main extent or edge of the support 112 of the pneumatic system 104. As illustrated, the tab 124 may be located in a generally central region of the support 112 and / or the comfort system. However, in some configurations, one or more tabs 124 may extend laterally inward from the support 112 (e.g., toward the central longitudinal axis A). In some configurations, one or more tabs 124 may be located in an upper region of the support 112, in a lower region of the support 112, or in both. A connection region 120 may be provided in the region of the one or more tabs 124.In other words, the tabs 124 may be a connecting tab 124 that is connected or attached to the support 106 of the heating system 102. The tabs 124 may be arranged symmetrically on either side of a longitudinal axis A. However, in certain other configurations, the tabs 124 may be arranged entirely on one side of the longitudinal axis A or asymmetrically to the longitudinal axis A.

[0041] In some configurations, the one or more tabs may also or instead extend from the heating system support. In such a configuration, the one or more tabs of the heating system support may be connected to a mating area or surface or connection area 120 of the support 112 of the pneumatic system 104.

[0042] The pneumatic system 104 may be mounted on or connected to the rear or B-side of the heating system 102, as shown in Fig. 5. However, depending on the design and application of the vehicle seat, in some configurations the pneumatic system 104 may also or instead be attached to or connected to a front or A-side of the heating system 102.

[0043] After the unitary assembly or comfort system 100 is formed by connecting or attaching the supports 106, 112 via connectors 122 to the one or more connection areas 120, the upper end edges 107 of the support 106 of the heating system 102 may extend above or beyond the upper end edges 113 of the support 112 of the pneumatic system 104. However, in other configurations, one or more of the upper end edges 113 of the support 112 of the pneumatic system 104 may extend beyond the upper end edges 107 of the support 106 of the heating system 102.

[0044] After the unit assembly or comfort system is formed, the lower end edges 115 of the support 112 of the pneumatic system 104 may extend beyond or over the lower end edges 109 of the support 106 of the heating system 102. However, in some configurations, the lower end edges 109 of the support 106 of the heating system 102 may extend over the lower end edges 115 of the support 112 of the pneumatic system 104.

[0045] After the unitary assembly or comfort system is formed, the one or more tabs 124 of the carrier 110 of the pneumatic system 104 may be disposed adjacent to the side edges 111 of the carrier 106 of the heating system 102. However, in some configurations, the one or more tabs 124 may extend beyond the side edges 111 of the carrier 106, or the one or more side edges 111 may extend beyond the tabs 124.

[0046] Fig. 5 also shows the one or more air cells 114 connected to the back of the carrier 112. That is, a portion of the connector 118 of the air cell 114 may extend through the carrier 112 and be connected to a back of the carrier 112.

[0047] In Fig. 6A, the comfort system 100 is shown. The support 112 of the pneumatic system 104 is connected to the support 106 of the heating system 102 at one or more connection areas 120 via one or more connectors 122 to form the unitary assembly and system 100. The pneumatic system 104 is attached to a rear or B-side of the heating system 102 such that the one or more air cells are located between the two supports 106, 112. However, the air cells should not be tightly wedged between the two supports 106, 112 in such a way as to restrict the movement and / or the extent to which the air cells can expand when inflated with air or liquid.However, in some configurations, it may be desirable for the air cells to be tightly enclosed between the supports 106, 112 so that, upon inflation, the air cells can expand sufficiently to protrude through the support so that the occupant can feel the inflated air cells. This may require one or both supports to be made of a sufficiently elastic, stretchable, or conformable material. On the other hand, the other of the supports, e.g., the support to which the air cells are attached, may be made of a stiffer or less stretchable material to allow the air cells to expand in only one direction (i.e., toward the occupant in the vehicle seat).

[0048] The comfort system 100, the heating system 102, and / or the pneumatic system 104 may be connected to one or more control units 125. The one or more control units 125 may control the operation of the system 100, 102, and / or 104.

[0049] With additional reference to Fig. 6B, where the comfort system 100 is shown as being connected to or attached to the A-surface 22 of the cushion 20 of the back portion of the vehicle seat. However, in other configurations, the comfort system 100 may also be connected to or attached to the opposite B-surface of the vehicle seat cushion. These teachings may also apply to the attachment of the comfort system 100 to the cushion of the seat portion of the vehicle seat.

[0050] To install or attach the comfort system 100 to the cushion 20, the one or more of the connection areas 120 can be aligned or positioned over one or more elements of the cushion 20. The one or more elements can be one or more grooves in the cushion. A groove can be located in a top region of the cushion, a bottom region of the cushion, a middle region of the cushion, a left side of the cushion, or a right side of the cushion. In some configurations, the one or more elements can be the A-surface of the cushion (i.e., a surface that is not a groove). In some configurations, the one or more elements to which the comfort system can be attached is a top, bottom, side, or even the back or B-side of the cushion.In some configurations, the one or more elements to which the comfort system can be attached can be an interior part of the cushion by at least partially inserting the comfort system into a cavity, opening, slot, or other perforation in the cushion.

[0051] More specifically, the one or more connection areas 120 located in an upper region 126 of the comfort system 100 may be generally aligned with a groove 24, which may be referred to as the upper groove 24 of the cushion 20. More specifically, one or more connection areas 120 located in a middle region 128 of the comfort system 100 may be generally aligned with another groove 26, which may be referred to as the middle groove 26 of the cushion 20. More specifically, one or more of the connection areas 120 located in a lower region 130 of the comfort system 100 may be generally aligned with a lower region 28 of the cushion 20. When installing or attaching the comfort system 100 to the cushion 20, the comfort system 20 may be installed on the A-surface 22 of the cushion 20.

[0052] More specifically, with reference to Fig. 6A, Fig. 6B and Fig. 7, the one or more connecting areas 120 arranged in the upper area 126 of the comfort system 100 can be folded or inserted into the upper groove 24 of the cushion 20.

[0053] More specifically, with reference to the Fig. 6A, Fig. 6B and Fig. 8, the one or more connecting portions 120 located in the central portion 128 of the comfort system 100 may be folded or tucked into the central groove 26 of the cushion 20.

[0054] By folding or tucking the connecting portions 120 into the respective grooves 24, 26, the connecting portions 120 and the connectors 122 in the connecting portion can be removed or spaced from any part of the vehicle seat that might come into contact with an occupant. This means that if a connecting portion 120 and / or a connector 122 were placed directly on the A-surface of the cushion 20, an occupant of the vehicle seat could feel the connecting portion 120 and / or the connector 122 poking into their back, which could cause an undesirable sensation or effect. Furthermore, by tucking the respective connecting portions 120 and connector 122 into a groove 24, 26, the comfort system 100 can be better secured to the cushion 20 to prevent relative movement or separation of the comfort system 100 from the cushion 20.One or more of the connecting regions 120 in the lower region 130 of the comfort system 100 may be provided on the A-surface of the cushion 20 in a lower region 28 of the cushion 20.

[0055] A connector or fastener, such as a clip, pin, or other mechanical fastener, may extend through the support 106 of the heating system 102 and / or the support 110 of the pneumatic system 104 and into the cushion 20. A connector, such as a clip, pin, or other mechanical fastener, may extend through the connection area 120 and into the cushion 20. A connector, such as a clip, pin, or other mechanical fastener, may extend through only one of the supports 106 or 110 and into the cushion 20. A connector, such as a clip, pin, or other mechanical fastener, may extend through the connection area 120 and into the cushion 20.

[0056] After the connecting portions 120 have been folded or inserted into the grooves 24, 26, a connector 132 may be placed into the groove 26, 28 to further press the connecting portions 120 into the grooves 26, 28 and retain the connecting portion 120 therein. The connector 132 may be a bar, a strip, or other fastening means, such as one of the connectors or fastening means disclosed herein.

[0057] As well as from Fig. 7, the one or more openings 136 remain free from the supports and connection areas of the heating and pneumatic systems.

[0058] Fig. 9 shows the comfort system 100 installed in the cushion 20 of the vehicle seat. The A-surface 22 of the cushion 20 includes one or more recesses or depressions 30. The pneumatic system 104 of the comfort system 100 is configured to reside in the depressions 30. More specifically, after the air cells 114 of the comfort system 100 are placed in the depressions 30, the heating system 102 is positioned above the pneumatic system 104. In this orientation, the air cells 114 are positioned between the support 106 of the heating system 102 and the support 112 of the pneumatic system 104. A trim layer or other covering layer can then be applied over the heating system 102 of the comfort system 100 to complete the vehicle seat 10.

[0059] During use, the heating system 102 can generate heat, causing the trim layer or other covering layer to warm and provide warmth to an occupant of the vehicle seat. The pneumatic system 104 can be activated, causing the one or more air cells 114 to fill or inflate with air, causing the air cells 114 to expand and thus move or expand portions of the support 106 of the heating system 102, allowing an occupant of the vehicle seat to feel the pressure change within the air cells 112 as a massage and / or lumbar function.

[0060] After the heating system 102 and the pneumatic system 104 are connected or mated to form a unified assembly or comfort system 100, the comfort system 100 can then be installed into the vehicle seat 12 as a single, integrated system, which can simplify installation methods and reduce installation time in a vehicle seat assembly facility. For example, if the pneumatic system 104 were provided as a separate system from the heating system 102, an operator or assembly technician would need to be trained to install the pneumatic system 104 into the vehicle seat. The operator or technician would then also need to be trained to install the heating system 102 into the seat. This would impose additional time and burden on the operator and assembly procedures.Additionally, in the event of a problem with the pneumatic system 104 and / or the heating system 102, an operator would have to disassemble the heating system to access the pneumatic system. Furthermore, the vehicle seat assembly facility would have to provide additional storage space for separate part numbers for the individual heating and pneumatic systems. However, by combining these two systems 102, 104 into a single, combined system 100, one or more of the aforementioned steps or problems can be avoided.

[0061] In Fig. 10, a thermal system 102 is illustrated. The thermal system 102 may be a heating system. The thermal system 102 may be a cooling system. The thermal system 102 may be configured to provide heating and / or cooling functions or effects to an occupant of a vehicle seat. The thermal system 102 may be of the type and / or incorporate teachings disclosed, at least in part or in full, in any of the following U.S. patents: 7,560,670; 7,285,748; 7,223,948; 6,838,647; 6,710,303; 6,150,642; 5,451,747; 4,931,627; 4,777,351; US Patent Publication No. US20200406797 and / or 2010 / 0289303, which are expressly incorporated herein by reference for all purposes.

[0062] The thermal system 102 may include a support 106. The support 106 may be configured as a base or structure upon which elements of the thermal system 102 or the comfort system 100 are mounted or supported. The support 106 may be provided in the form of a plate, a panel, and / or a substrate. The shape of the support 106 may be provided in a variety of configurations, which may depend on one or more factors, such as the design of the vehicle seat, the areas that are (or are not) temperature-controlled (heated and / or cooled) by the thermal system 102, etc. In some configurations, for example, the support 106 may have a simple rectangular or square shape. In other configurations, the support 106 may have a complex geometry or shape, as shown in Fig. 3 is shown.

[0063] The carrier 106 of the thermal system 102 may be constructed from a suitable material, which may be or include one or more fabric, nonwoven, and / or felt materials. The carrier 106 may be a polyester material, a polyester point bond material, a woven or nonwoven material, or a combination thereof. The carrier 106 may be flexible and / or configured to conform to various supporting and / or adjacent geometries of the vehicle, the vehicle seat, and / or other adjacent structure.

[0064] The support 106 of the thermal system 102 may extend between opposite upper and lower end edges or tabs 107 and between opposite lateral edges or tabs 111. An edge may be an end edge or a portion of the body or main extent of the support 106. A tab may be an extension, flap, protrusion, appendage, or cantilevered portion extending above or from the body of the support 106. A tab may be made of the same material as the rest of the support body or of a different material than the support body. A tab may be a single, integral part of the rest of the support 106 or may be attached thereto with one or more suitable fasteners (i.e., any suitable fastener disclosed or mentioned herein, including: tape, sewing, staples, hook and loop, adhesive, welding, etc.).) The carrier 106 may have one or more openings 121. The one or more openings 121 may be located at any location on the carrier body and / or the one or more tabs 111.

[0065] The thermal system 102 may be a heating system and may also be referred to herein as a heating part 129. The heating part 129 may be a heating mat that may include one or more heating elements 108. The one or more heating elements 108 may be one or more wires or conductors located on, under, and / or integrated into the material of the carrier 106. The shape of the one or more heating elements 108 may be provided in a variety of configurations, which may also depend on one or more factors such as the design of the vehicle seat. For example, the one or more heating elements 108 may be a resistive wire that winds, meanders, zigzags, etc., on the carrier 106. The one or more heating elements 108 may be configured to be powered by a power source 110 and then generate heat in response to the power supply.The heat can warm the surface of the vehicle seat and thus provide warmth to the occupant.

[0066] The Fig. 11A and Fig. 11B show a pneumatic system 104. The pneumatic system 104 may be of the type disclosed in U.S. Patent Publication Nos. US2012 / 0313420 and / or US21013 / 0127226, which are expressly incorporated herein by reference for all purposes.

[0067] The pneumatic system 104 may include a carrier 112. While the pneumatic system 104 in Fig. 11AA is illustrated as including two separate supports 112, the pneumatic system 104 may include only a single support 112, or the system 104 may include more than two separate supports 112. The number of supports 112, their size, and / or their shape may also depend on the configuration of the vehicle seat and the areas to be provided with massage or lumbar functions and the areas not to be provided with massage and / or lumbar functions.

[0068] The support 112 may be formed as a base or structure upon which elements of the pneumatic system 104 or the comfort system 100 are attached or supported. The support 112 may be provided as a sheet, plate, and / or substrate. The support 112 may be a fabric material provided as a sheet, plate, or substrate. The support 112 may be made of any suitable material, such as one or more fabrics, nonwoven and / or felt materials, polyester, a PET (polyethylene terephthalate) material, or a combination thereof. The support 112 of the pneumatic system 104 may be made of the same or a different material than the support 106 of the thermal system 102.

[0069] The carrier 112 of the pneumatic system 104 may extend between upper and lower end edges or tabs 113, 115. The carrier 112 may have one or more side edges or tabs 119. An edge may be an end edge or a portion of the body of the carrier 112. A tab may be an extension, flap, protrusion, tab, or projecting portion extending from the main body of the carrier 112. A tab may be made of the same material as the rest of the carrier 112 or of a different material than the rest of the carrier 112. A tab may be a single, integral part of the rest of the carrier 112 or may be attached thereto using one or more suitable fasteners (i.e., any suitable fastener disclosed or mentioned herein, including: tape, seams, stitches, hook and loop, adhesive, welding, etc.).

[0070] The support 112 of the pneumatic system 104 may have one or more openings 123. The one or more openings 123 may be provided at any location on the body of the support 112 or on the tabs 119. The one or more openings 123 may be configured such that one or more fasteners may extend through the support 112 to assist in connecting the support 112 of the pneumatic system 104 to the support 106 of the thermal system 102, to the cushion 20, or to both. Accordingly, referring back to Fig. 10, the one or more fasteners also extend through the opening 121 in the support 106 to connect the supports 106, 112 to each other and / or to connect or secure the supports 106, 112 and / or the comfort system 100 to the vehicle seat. The one or more openings 121 in the support 106 of the thermal system 102 can be configured to allow air to flow through the thermal system 102 for ventilated comfort system applications.

[0071] The pneumatic system 104 may include one or more bladders or air cells 114. The one or more bladders or air cells may be configured to be inflated and deflated with air or another fluid to adjust a contour, size, and / or shape of the air cells 114 to provide a comfort function (e.g., massage, lumbar, etc.). Therefore, in some configurations, the pneumatic system 104 may also or instead be referred to as a lumbar system 104, a massage system 104, or a combination thereof. The air, fluid, or gas may be supplied to the one or more air cells 114 via one or more fluid sources 116, such as pumps, actuators, inflators, tanks, or the like, or a combination thereof, connected to the one or more air cells 114 via one or more hoses 117.

[0072] The one or more air cells 114 may be attached or secured to the carrier 112 via one or more connectors or fasteners 118. The one or more air cells 114 may be attached or secured to adjacent air cells 114 via one or more fasteners 118. The one or more fasteners 118 may serve to connect or secure the one or more air cells 114 to the carrier 112 and / or adjacent air cells 114 to prevent or limit unintentional separation or movement of the air cells 114 relative to and from the carrier 112. However, the one or more fasteners 118 still allow the one or more air cells 114 to inflate and deflate to expand, contact, and move to provide the desired comfort function.The one or more fastening means 118 may comprise any fastening means disclosed herein.

[0073] In some configurations, one or more fasteners 118 may be configured to connect the one or more air cells 114 to the support 106 of the thermal system 102, to a spacer layer 122, to a cushion 18 of the vehicle seat 12, or a combination thereof.

[0074] In Fig. 12, a spacer layer 138 is illustrated. The spacer layer 138 may be defined by or within a perimeter, boundary, or footprint 140. The spacer layer 138 may be a material provided as a sheet or plate. The spacer layer 138 may have virtually any size and / or shape. Fig. 12, the spacer layer 138 is shown, for example, in the form of a rectangle, in Fig. 14, the spacer layer 138 has an H-shape, and in Fig. 15, the spacer layer 138 consists of individual parts.

[0075] In the Fig. A comfort system 100 is shown in each case. The comfort system 100 includes a thermal or heating system 102 with a support 106; a pneumatic system 104 with a support 112; and a spacer layer 138 provided between the supports 106, 112.

[0076] The support 106 of the thermal system 102 and the support 112 of the pneumatic system 104 are connected to each other in one or more connection areas 120. A connection area 120 can be a region of a portion of the system 100 where the two supports 106, 112 are connected or joined together. One or more connecting elements can be used to connect the two supports. The support 106 and the support 112 can be connected to each other before (or during or after) the comfort system 100 is installed in the vehicle seat. The one or more connection areas 120 can be located in an area of ​​the comfort system 100 that is free of the spacer layer 138 arranged between the two supports 106, 112. In other words, the spacer layer 138 is not located between the supports 106, 112 where they are joined or connected to each other.In this regard, the supports 106, 112 may be directly connected to one another in the one or more connection regions. Alternatively, one or more layers, components, or structures other than the spacer layer 138 may be provided between the supports 106, 112 in the one or more connection regions 120. In one non-limiting example, a fastening means such as an adhesive, tape, glue, etc., may be provided between the supports 106, 112 in the one or more connection regions 120.

[0077] By omitting the spacer layer 138 in the one or more connection regions 120, a stronger connection between the beams 106, 112 can be realized. For example, the spacer layer 138 can be made of a material that is not suitable for welding if the beams 106, 122 are to be connected to one another by welding. The spacer layer 138 can, for example, have a thickness that exceeds the length of the suitable fastening means if the beams 106, 122 are to be connected to one another via a switch, pin, rivet, etc. In another example, if the beams 106, 122 are to be connected to one another via an adhesive tape, an adhesive, a double-sided adhesive tape, a pressure-sensitive adhesive tape, etc., only one fastening element needs to be provided between the beams 106, 112, as opposed to a plurality of fastening elements (i.e.a fastener to connect the spacer layer 138 to the carrier 106, and then another fastener to connect the spacer layer 138 to the carrier 112).

[0078] However, in some configurations, the spacer layer 138 may also be provided between the carriers 106, 112 in one or more connection regions 120.

[0079] Additionally or alternatively, one or more fasteners may extend through one or more openings 120, 121 in the two supports 106, 112 to interconnect the two systems 102, 104, which may also be referred to herein as a connection area 120. The one or more fasteners may engage the openings 121, 123 in a region of the comfort system 100 that is free of the spacer layer 138 disposed between the two supports 106, 112. In other configurations, one or more fasteners may engage the two supports 106, 112 without any openings 121, 123 having been previously defined in the supports.

[0080] In other words, a connection region 120 may be disposed around an outer perimeter or boundary of the comfort system 100 or the beams 106, 112; a connection region 120 may be disposed within or within the boundaries of the outer perimeter or boundary of the comfort system 100 or the beams 106, 112; or both. A connection region 120 may be where only the beams 106, 112 are directly or indirectly connected to each other. A connection region 120 may be free of any spacer layer 138. A connection region 126 may include other layers or structures between the beams 106, 112 that are not the spacer layer.

[0081] The spacer layer 138 may serve to reduce the visibility of the seat components. For example, the spacer layer 138 may serve to prevent the pneumatic system 104 or the air cells 114 from visible showing through and / or protruding through an A-surface of the cover fabric or layer of the vehicle seat when the air cells are inflated and / or deflated. The spacer layer 138 may serve to provide additional cushioning or support to an occupant. The spacer layer 138 may serve to change the feel of the seat, increase or decrease the intensity of the massage or lumbar functions of the massage system 104 that can be seen and / or felt by an occupant, or both. Accordingly, the spacer layer 138 may be primarily disposed in an area where the air cells 114 are located, as shown in Fig. 14 is the case. This can result in cost and weight savings because the spacer layer 138 is not located in areas where no air cells are located. The spacer layer 138 can serve to reduce or isolate the noise generated by the massage system when the air cells are inflated and deflated. However, the spacer layer 138 can be located anywhere between the systems 102, 104 and / or supports 106, 112.

[0082] With particular reference to Fig. 15, the connecting regions 120 may be disposed on tabs 111, 119 of the supports 106, 112. The one or more connecting regions 120 may be disposed on tabs 111, 119 in a region of the comfort system 100 that is free of the spacer layer 138 disposed between the two supports 106, 112. The tabs 111, 119 may extend away from the main body of the supports 106, 112. In some configurations, a tab 119 or a support 112 may be attached to the support 106. In such a configuration, the support 106 may be free of any tabs 111, or the tab 119 may simply be connected to the support 106 in a region that does not include any tabs. The tab 119 can be connected to the carrier 106 in a connecting region 120.

[0083] In Fig. 15, the one or more connecting regions 120 may be located in a laterally outward region of the system 100. In other configurations, the one or more connecting regions 120 may be disposed between the two elongated supports 112.

[0084] In Fig. 16, a comfort system 100 is shown. The comfort system 100 includes a thermal system 102 and a pneumatic system 104. The thermal system 102 includes a support 106, and the massage system 104 includes a support 112. A spacer layer 138 may be provided between the two supports 106, 112. The comfort system 100 may include a connection region 120. The connection region 120 may be disposed around an entire perimeter of the comfort system 100. This means that the one or more connection regions 120 may be disposed at all four edges. However, in some configurations, the connection region 120 may be disposed at one or more of the edges, two or more of the edges, three or more of the edges, etc. of the comfort system 100.

[0085] The size or footprint of the spacer layer 138 may be smaller than a size or footprint of the support 106 and / or the support 112. The spacer layer 138 may be provided between the two supports and may not be located in the connection region 120. The spacer layer 138 may move freely within the boundary or perimeter of the comfort system 100, within the perimeter of the connection region 120. In such a configuration, the supports 106, 112 may form a wrap around the spacer layer 138. In some configurations, not all edges or perimeters of the comfort system 100 may have a connection region 120, but one or more edges or perimeters of the comfort system 100 may be free of a connection region 120.This means that the spacer layer 138 can be inserted or removed between the two beams 106, 112 while at least one of the edges or regions of the beams 106, 112 remains bonded together. The bonding region 120 can be a continuous region that is bonded together. In some configurations, the bonding region 120 can be a discontinuous or intermittent region that includes a gap or air pockets between the fasteners or means that bond the beams together in the bonding regions 120.

[0086] The connection region 120 can be formed in any of the embodiments disclosed herein by bringing the two beams 106, 112 together in a flat, planar orientation and then using one or more of the fasteners disclosed herein to connect the two beams together. Alternatively, one of the beams 106, 112 can be folded over an edge of the other beam 106, 112. Alternatively, one or more fasteners can pass through the beams 106, 112 or be disposed between them in regions that do not include the spacer layer 138.

[0087] Fig. 17 shows a comfort system 100 and a seat cushion 18 or 20. The comfort system 100 includes a thermal system 102 and a pneumatic system 104. The thermal system 100 includes a heating section 106 and a ventilating section 130. The heating section 106 may include heating elements configured to generate heat in response to being supplied with energy from an energy source. The ventilated section 142 may be of the type disclosed in US 6,869,140B2 and / or US 7,862,113B2, the disclosures of which are hereby incorporated by reference for all purposes. The ventilated section 142 may include one or more layers arranged to form a bag or air distribution structure with an open space therein.The ventilated portion 142 may include a blower or air mover 132 that may be connected to the bag structure or air manifold via one or more conduits, ducts, or tails 146 that may extend around the cushion 18, as shown in FIG. Fig. 17, and / or may extend through a thickness of the cushion 18.

[0088] While the Fig. While the example shown in Figure 17 shows the blower or air drive 144 on the B-side of the cushion 18, the blower or air drive 144 may be located within a thickness of the cushion 18 (e.g., between the A-side of the cushion and the B-side of the cushion) or may be located on the A-side of the cushion. Again, the cushion 18 may or may not be the cushion 20.

[0089] The vented section 142 may be disposed between the pneumatic assembly 104 and the heating section 106. The pneumatic system 104 may be connected to the vented section 142 and / or the heating section 106 via one or more connection areas disclosed herein. In such an embodiment, the vented section 142 would not be located in the connection area.

[0090] In Fig. 18 shows a comfort system 100 and a seat cushion 18. The comfort system 100 of Fig. 18 can be Fig. 17, but adds a spacer layer 138 between the cushion 18 and the pneumatic system 104.

[0091] In Fig. 19 shows a comfort system 100 and a seat cushion 18. The comfort system 100 of Fig. 19 can be Fig. 17, but adds a spacer layer 138 between the pneumatic system 104 and the vented portion 142.

[0092] Fig. 20 shows a comfort system 100 and a seat cushion 18. The comfort system 100 of Fig. 20 can be Fig. 17, but adds a spacer layer 138 between the cushion 18 and the pneumatic system 104.

[0093] The explanations and illustrations contained herein are intended to familiarize those skilled in the art with the invention, its principles, and its practical application. The above description is for illustrative and not restrictive purposes. Those skilled in the art can adapt and apply the invention in its numerous embodiments as best suited to the needs of a particular application.

[0094] Accordingly, the specific embodiments of the present invention set forth are not intended to be exhaustive or limiting of the teachings. The scope of the teachings should therefore be determined not by reference to this specification, but by reference to the appended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled. The omission of any aspect of any subject matter disclosed herein from the following claims is not a waiver thereof, nor should it be inferred that the inventors did not consider such subject matter to be part of what was disclosed.

[0095] Multiple elements or steps can be provided by a single integrated element or step. Alternatively, a single element or step can be divided into multiple, separate elements or steps.

[0096] The use of "a" or "an" to describe an element or step is not intended to exclude additional elements or steps. For example, the use of "a connector" does not limit the teaching to a single connector. Instead, the use of "a connector" may include "one or more connectors."

[0097] Although the terms "first," "second," "third," etc., may be 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, area, layer, or section from another area, layer, or section. Terms such as "first," "second," and other numerical terms do not imply an order unless clearly indicated by the context. Thus, a first element, component, area, layer, or section referred to below could be referred to as a second element, component, area, layer, or section without departing from the spirit of the invention.

[0098] Spatially relative terms such as "inside," "outside," "below," "under," "below," "above," "above," and the like may be used herein for ease of description to describe the relationship of one element or feature to another element or feature as illustrated in the figures. Spatially relative terms may be used to encompass various orientations of the device in use or operation in addition to the illustrated orientation. 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 be oriented differently (rotated by 90 degrees or in other orientations) and the spatially relative descriptors used here may be interpreted accordingly.

[0099] The invention illustratively disclosed herein may be conveniently practiced in the absence of any element not specifically disclosed herein.

[0100] Each of the elements, components, regions, layers, and / or sections disclosed herein is not necessarily limited to a single embodiment. Rather, each 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 not specifically depicted or described herein.

[0101] The disclosures of all articles and references, including patent applications and publications, as well as test specifications, are incorporated by reference for all purposes. Other combinations are also possible, as will be apparent from the following claims, which are also hereby incorporated by reference into this written description. Reference numbers: 10 vehicles 12 vehicle seat 14 Seat part 16 Backrest part 18 pillows 20 pillows 22 A surface 24: Upper groove of cushion 20 26: Middle groove of cushion 20 28: lower area of ​​the A-surface of cushion 20 30 Recess or depression in the pillow 20 100 comfort system 102 Heating system 104 pneumatic system 106 Heating system support 102 107 upper end edges of the support 106 of the heating system 102 108 Heating element of the heating system 102 109 lower connecting edges of the support 106 of the heating system 102 110 Power source 111 Side edges or tabs of the support 106 of the heating system 102. 112 Carrier of the pneumatic system 104 113 upper end edge of the carrier 112 of the pneumatic system 104 114 bubbles or air cells 115 lower end edge of the support 112 of the pneumatic system 104 116 Air source 117 hoses 118 Connector for connecting the air cell 114 to the carrier 112 119 side edges or tabs of the carrier 112 120 connection areas 121 openings in the beam 106 122 connectors in the connection area 120 123 Opening in the carrier 112 124 connecting strap 125 controllers 126 upper area of ​​the comfort system 100 128 Central area of ​​the comfort system 100 130 lower area of ​​the comfort system 100 132 connectors 136 Through hole in the support 106 of the heating system 102 for attaching the comfort system to the pillow. 138 spacing layer 140 Base area of ​​the spacer layer 138 142 ventilated part 144 Blower or air mover 146 shafts, channels or tails 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 / 432,779

[0001] US 63 / 462,574

[0001] US 8,777,320

[0013] US 7,560,670 [0022, 0061] US 7,285,748 [0022, 0061] US 7,223,948 [0022, 0061] US 6,838,647 [0022, 0061] US 6,710,303 [0022, 0061] US 6,150,642 [0022, 0061] US 5,451,747 [0022, 0061] US 4,931,627 [0022, 0061] US 4,777,351 [0022, 0061] US 20200406797 [0022, 0061] US 2010 / 0289303 [0022, 0061] US 2012 / 0313420 [0026, 0066] US 21013 / 0127226 [0026, 0066] US 6,869,140B2

[0087] US 7,862,113B2

[0087]

Claims

[1] A comfort system for a vehicle seat, comprising: a heating system comprising a carrier and one or more heating elements configured to generate heat; a pneumatic system comprising a carrier and one or more air cells configured to be inflated and deflated; wherein the carrier of the pneumatic system is connected to the carrier of the heating system at one or more connection areas before the comfort system is installed in the vehicle seat. [2] The comfort system of claim 1, wherein the one or more air cells are arranged between the support of the pneumatic system and the support of the heating system. [3] The comfort system according to claim 2, wherein the carrier of the pneumatic system has one or more tabs extending laterally away from a main or longitudinal extent of the carrier of the pneumatic system, and the one or more tabs are connected at a connecting region to side edges of the carrier of the heating system. [4] The comfort system of claim 1, wherein the comfort system comprises a spacer layer between the carrier of the thermal system and the carrier of the pneumatic system. [5] The comfort system of claim 4, wherein the spacer layer is not located between the thermal system support and the pneumatic system support in the one or more connection regions. [6] The comfort system of claim 5, wherein the one or more connecting regions are located outside or beyond a perimeter or base of the spacer layer. [7] The comfort system of claim 6, wherein the spacer layer has a recess and one or more connectors connecting the thermal system support to the pneumatic system support in the one or more connection areas pass through the recess. [8] The comfort system of claim 1 or any preceding claim, wherein the thermal system is a heating system and the pneumatic system comprises one or more bladders or air cells configured to be inflated and deflated to provide lumbar and / or massage functions. [9] The comfort system of claim 4 or any preceding claim, wherein the spacer layer comprises a ventilated pocket structure into which airflow is directed and configured to distribute the airflow toward an occupant on the vehicle seat. [10] The comfort system according to claim 4 or any preceding claim, wherein the thermal system support comprises a body and one or more tabs projecting outwardly from the body, and the pneumatic system support comprises a body and one or more tabs projecting outwardly from the body; wherein the one or more tabs of the thermal system support are connected to the one or more tabs of the pneumatic system support in the one or more connection areas by one or more connectors. [11] The comfort system according to claim 4 or any preceding claim, wherein the thermal system support and the pneumatic system support are joined together to form an enclosure around the spacer layer. [12] The comfort system according to claim 4 or any one of the preceding claims, wherein the spacer layer is attached to the thermal system support or to the pneumatic system support with one or more fastening elements in a region other than the one or more connection regions in which the thermal system support is connected to the pneumatic system support. [13] The comfort system according to claim 1 or any one of the preceding claims, wherein the support of the thermal system and the support of the pneumatic system are connected to each other along two or more edges of the comfort system. [14] The comfort system according to claim 1 or any preceding claim, wherein the thermal system support and the pneumatic system support are connected to each other along three or more edges of the comfort system. [15] The comfort system according to claim 1 or any preceding claim, wherein the comfort system is configured to be attached to a cushion of the vehicle seat, wherein one or more of the connecting portions are configured to be folded or tucked into a top groove of the cushion or a middle groove of the cushion, or the one or more connecting portions are configured to be placed against an A-surface of the cushion. [16] A method of manufacturing the comfort system according to claim 1, the method comprising: Connecting the thermal system carrier and the pneumatic system carrier in the one or more connection areas before installing the comfort system in the vehicle seat. [17] The method of claim 16, wherein the method comprises: disposing a spacer layer between the thermal system support and the pneumatic system support. [18] The method of claim 17, wherein the step of arranging comprises arranging the spacer layer such that the one or more bonding regions are located outside a perimeter or base of the spacer layer. [19] The method of any of claims 16-18, wherein the one or more connection regions comprise one or more connectors comprising RF welding, ultrasonic welding and / or adhesive. [20] The method of any one of claims 16 to 19, wherein the comfort system is configured to be attached to a cushion of the vehicle seat, wherein one or more connecting portions are configured to be folded or tucked into a top groove of the cushion or a middle groove of the cushion, or the one or more connecting portions are configured to be placed against an A-surface of the cushion.

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