Heater device

Abstract

To provide a heater device in which a further uniform temperature distribution can be achieved.SOLUTION: At least one of a distance d1 between one adjacent heat-generating part 21 and a heat-uniformizing part 27 and a distance d2 between another adjacent heat-generating part 21 and the heat-uniformizing part 27 is less than or equal to the line width wh of the heat-generating parts 21. Further, in the heat-uniformizing part 27, a distance A between one end on a side located at the one adjacent heat-generating part 21 and the other end on a side located at the other adjacent heat-generating part 21 is longer than the line width wh of the heat-generating parts 21.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a heater device.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, there has been a heater device described in Patent Document 1. In this device, a heat generating portion that generates heat by energization, and a transmitting electrode and a receiving electrode that form an electric field for detecting contact or proximity of an object are formed on one surface side of an insulating substrate. This device includes a detection circuit that detects contact or proximity of an object based on a change in the electric field formed by each electrode. In this device, the transmitting electrode and the receiving electrode enable uniformization of the temperature distribution by diffusing the heat generated by the heat generating portion in the surface direction.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In the device described in Patent Document 1 above, the transmitting electrode and the receiving electrode improve the surface temperature distribution by receiving the heat of the heat generating portion and diffusing it in the surface direction. However, this device has a problem that unevenness occurs in the temperature distribution because the density difference of each wiring of the heat generating portion, the transmitting electrode, and the receiving electrode is large.

[0005] In view of the above points, the present invention aims to further uniformize the temperature distribution.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] In order to achieve the above object, the invention according to claim 1 includes a heat generating portion (21) formed adjacent to one surface of an insulating substrate (25) and generating heat upon energization, and a heat spreading portion (27) disposed between adjacent heat generating portions and spreading the heat of the heat generating portions in the surface direction of the one surface. Further, the heat generating portion has a linear shape, and at least one of the distance (d1) between one adjacent heat generating portion and the heat spreading portion and the distance (d2) between the other adjacent heat generating portion and the heat spreading portion is equal to or less than the line width (wh) of the heat generating portion. Further, in the heat spreading portion, the distance (A) between one end on the side of one adjacent heat generating portion and the other end on the side of the other adjacent heat generating portion is longer than the line width (wh) of the heat generating portion. Furthermore, the soaking part has a first power line (231) that forms a linear shape and extends along one adjacent heating part, a second power line (241) that forms a linear shape and extends along the other adjacent heating part, and a heat dissipation part (232, 242) that is disposed between the first power line and the second power line and is connected to either the first power line or the second power line to dissipate the heat of the heating part. The invention according to claim 2 includes a heating part (21) formed adjacent to one surface of an insulating substrate (25) and generating heat when energized, and a soaking part (27) disposed between adjacent heating parts to diffuse the heat of the heating part in the surface direction of the one surface. The heating part forms a linear shape, and at least one of the distance (d1) between one adjacent heating part and the soaking part and the distance (d2) between the other adjacent heating part and the soaking part is equal to or less than the line width (wh) of the heating part. Also, in the soaking part, the distance (A) between one end on the side of one adjacent heating part and the other end on the side of the other adjacent heating part is longer than the line width (wh) of the heating part. Furthermore, the soaking part has a first power line (231) that forms a linear shape and extends along one adjacent heating part, a second power line (241) that forms a linear shape and extends along the other adjacent heating part, a third power line (251) disposed between the first power line and the second power line, and a heat dissipation part (252) disposed between the first power line and the second power line and connected to the third power line to dissipate the heat of the heating part.

[0007] According to the above-described configuration, at least one of the distance (d1) between one adjacent heat generating portion and the heat spreading portion and the distance (d2) between the other adjacent heat generating portion and the heat spreading portion is equal to or less than the line width (wh) of the heat generating portion, so that the heat transfer property from the heat generating portion to the heat spreading portion can be ensured. Further, in the heat spreading portion, the distance (A) between one end on the side of one adjacent heat generating portion and the other end on the side of the other adjacent heat generating portion is longer than the line width (wh) of the heat generating portion, so that the heat of the heat generating portion can be transferred between adjacent heat generating portions and dissipated efficiently. Therefore, further uniformization of the temperature distribution can be achieved.

[0008] Note that the reference numerals in parentheses attached to each component etc. indicate an example of the correspondence relationship between the component etc. and the specific components etc. described in the embodiments described later.

Brief Description of Drawings

[0009]

Figure 1

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Figure 12

Figure 13

Figure 14

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Figure 20

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0010] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following embodiments, parts that are the same or equivalent to each other are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof will be omitted.

[0011] (First Embodiment) The heater device according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 6. As shown in FIG. 1, the heater device 20 is installed inside a moving body such as a road vehicle. The heater device 20 forms part of a heating device for the interior. The heater device 20 is an electric heater that is powered from a power source such as a battery or a generator mounted on the moving body and generates heat. The heater device 20 is formed in a thin plate shape. The heater device 20 generates heat when power is supplied.

[0012] As shown in FIG. 2, the heater device 20 can be called a surface heater having a heat generating surface 24a that mainly radiates radiant heat H in a direction perpendicular to its surface in order to warm an object positioned in a direction perpendicular to its surface.

[0013] Inside the room, a seat 11 for the occupant 12 to sit on is installed. The heater device 20 is installed inside the room so as to radiate radiant heat H to the feet of the occupant 12. The heater device 20 can be used as a device for immediately providing warmth to the occupant 12, for example, immediately after starting another heating device. The heater device 20 is installed on the wall surface of the room.

[0014] The heater device 20 is installed so as to face the occupant 12 in a normal assumed posture. The road vehicle has a steering column 14 for supporting the steering wheel 13. The heater device 20 is installed on the lower surface of the steering column 14 and the lower surface of the instrument panel cover 15 so as to face the occupant 12, respectively.

[0015] Next, the configuration of the heater device 20 will be described with reference to FIGS. 3 to 5. As shown in FIGS. 3 to 5, the heater device 20 includes an insulating substrate 25, a heat generating portion 21, a heat equalizing portion 27, and a cover member 26. In FIG. 4, different hatching is applied to each part. This hatching does not indicate a cross section.

[0016] The insulating substrate 25 is composed of a plate-shaped member extending along the X-Y plane defined by the axis X and the axis Y. The insulating substrate 25 has a thickness in the direction of the axis Z. The insulating substrate 25 is formed in a substantially rectangular thin plate shape. The insulating substrate 25 has high insulation and is composed of a resin material that can withstand high temperatures, such as a polyimide film. On the surface of the insulating substrate 25 on the passenger side, a heat generating portion 21, a heat equalizing portion 27, and a cover member 26 are formed. The thermal conductivity of the insulating substrate 25 is lower than that of the heat generating portion 21 and the heat equalizing portion 27.

[0017] The heat generating portion 21 is linear and is formed to meander on one surface of the insulating substrate 25. That is, on one surface of the insulating substrate 25, the linear heat generating portion 21 is formed to meander greatly.

[0018] Thus, since the heat generating portion 21 is formed to meander greatly, the temperature distribution can be made uniform.

[0019] In addition, since the heat generating portion 21 is linear, when a passenger's finger or the like comes into contact, the heat transfer flowing into the finger is suppressed. Thereby, the temperature of the contacted portion can be rapidly decreased, and the thermal discomfort of the passenger can be suppressed.

[0020] The heat generating portion 21 is made of a conductive member. Specifically, the heat generating portion 21 can be configured using metals such as copper, an alloy of copper and tin (Cu-Sn), silver, tin, stainless steel, nickel, nichrome, and alloys containing these.

[0021] Connection terminals 28 are respectively formed at both ends of the heat generating portion 21. Each connection terminal 28 is connected to a control portion (not shown).

[0022] The heat equalizing portion 27 has a first power line 231, a second power line 241, heat radiating portions 232, 242, and a connection portion 233.

[0023] The first power line 231, the second power line 241, the heat radiating parts 232, 242, and the connection part 233 are made of conductive members. Specifically, they can be configured using metals such as copper, an alloy of copper and tin (Cu - Sn), silver, tin, stainless steel, nickel, nichrome, and alloys containing these metals.

[0024] The first power line 231 is formed in a linear shape and extends along one adjacent heat generating part. The second power line 241 is formed in a linear shape and extends along the other adjacent heat generating part 21.

[0025] The heat radiating part 232 is disposed between the first power line 231 and the second power line 241. The heat radiating part 232 is connected to the first power line 231 and dissipates the heat of the heat generating part 21.

[0026] The heat radiating part 242 and the connection part 243 are disposed between the first power line 231 and the second power line 241. The heat radiating part 242 is connected to the second power line 241 via the connection part 243 and dissipates the heat of the heat generating part 21. The heat radiating part 242 is in a rectangular shape.

[0027] Two heat radiating parts 232 are formed to branch from the middle of the first power line 231 toward the second power line 241 side. And the two heat radiating parts 232 are disposed so as to sandwich the heat radiating part 242.

[0028] That is, the heat equalizing part 27 has the first power line 231 extending along one adjacent heat generating part 21 and the second power line 241 extending along the other adjacent heat generating part 21. The heat equalizing part 27 further has two heat radiating parts 232 branching from the middle of the first power line 231 toward the second power line 241 and a heat radiating part 242 branching from the middle of the second power line 241 toward the first power line 231. And the heat radiating part 242 is disposed so as to be sandwiched between the two heat radiating parts 232.

[0029] In addition, the distance d1 between one adjacent heat generating part 21 and the heat equalizing part 27 and the distance d2 between the other adjacent heat generating part 21 and the heat equalizing part are both equal to or less than the line width wh of the heat generating part 21.

[0030] Furthermore, for the heat equalizing part 27, the distance A between one end on the side of one adjacent heat generating part 21 and the other end on the side of the other adjacent heat generating part 21 is longer than the line width wh of the heat generating part 21. Note that each of the distances d1 and d2 is a straight-line distance.

[0031] In addition, the heat equalizing part 27 is arranged across the center line CL that connects the center of the heat generating part 21 where one end on the side of one adjacent heat generating part 21 and the other end on the side of the other adjacent heat generating part 21 are adjacent to each other.

[0032] In addition, the heat equalizing part 27 has a first power line 231 that forms a linear shape and extends along one adjacent heat generating part 21, and a second power line 241 that forms a linear shape and extends along the other adjacent heat generating part 21.

[0033] In addition, a heat radiating part 232 is arranged between the first power line 231 and the second power line 241 and is connected to the first power line 231 to radiate the heat of the heat generating part 21. The heat equalizing part 27 further has a heat radiating part 242 that is arranged between the first power line 231 and the second power line 241 and is connected to the second power line 241 to radiate the heat of the heat generating part 21.

[0034] When a predetermined voltage is applied between the first power line 231 and the second power line 241 by a control part (not shown), as shown in FIG. 5, an electric field is formed between the heat radiating part 232 and the heat radiating part 242.

[0035] A connection terminal 291 is connected to the first power line 231, and a connection terminal 292 is connected to the second power line 241. The plurality of connection terminals 291 are connected to each other via a connection line (not shown), and the plurality of connection terminals 292 are also connected to each other via a connection line (not shown).

[0036] Further, the soaking section 27 and the heating section 21 are formed such that the length of the perpendicular line dropped from the soaking section 27 to the heating section 21 is a constant length.

[0037] When a voltage is applied between two connection terminals 28 arranged at both ends of the heating section 21, the heating section 21 generates heat. The heat of this heating section 21 propagates to the soaking section 27 and is dissipated in the soaking section 27.

[0038] Also, when a predetermined voltage is applied between the connection terminal 291 and the connection terminal 292, as shown in FIG. 4, an electric field E is formed between the heat dissipation section 242 and the heat dissipation section 232. Here, for example, when a human finger approaches or contacts between the heat dissipation section 242 and the heat dissipation section 232, a part of the electric field E moves to the human finger, the electric field E detected by the heat dissipation section 232 decreases, and the capacitance between the heat dissipation section 242 and the heat dissipation section 232 changes.

[0039] A control device (not shown) determines whether a human finger approaches or contacts based on whether the change in the capacitance between the heat dissipation section 242 and the heat dissipation section 232 is equal to or greater than a threshold value. When the contact or proximity of an object is detected, this control device reduces the amount of energization to the heating section 21 to be lower than the normal state or stops the energization. Thereby, the thermal discomfort of the occupant can be reduced.

[0040] FIG. 6 shows the configuration of a comparative example. In this comparative example, both the distance d1 between one adjacent heating section 21 and the soaking section 27 and the distance d2 between the other adjacent heating section 21 and the soaking section are longer than the line width wh of the heating section 21. Further, in this comparative example, the soaking section 27 has a distance A between one end on the side of one adjacent heating section 21 and the other end on the side of the other adjacent heating section 21 that is shorter than the line width wh of the heating section 21.

[0041] In such a configuration, since the distance d1 between the heating section 21 and the soaking section 27 and the distance d2 between the heating section 21 and the soaking section are relatively long, the heat of the heating section 21 is difficult to be transmitted to the soaking section 27 and the thermal conductivity is low.

[0042] Further, in the soaking section 27, the distance A between one end on the side of the adjacent heating section 21 and the other end on the side of the other adjacent heating section 21 is longer than the line width wh of the heating section 21, so the heat of the heating section 21 cannot be efficiently dissipated.

[0043] In contrast, as shown in FIG. 4, in the heater device of the present embodiment, the distance d1 between one adjacent heating section 21 and the soaking section 27 and the distance d2 between the other adjacent heating section 21 and the soaking section are both equal to or less than the line width wh of the heating section 21. Therefore, the heat of the heating section 21 is easily transmitted to the soaking section 27 and it has excellent thermal conductivity.

[0044] Furthermore, in the soaking section 27 of the heater device of the present embodiment, the distance A between one end on the side of the adjacent heating section 21 and the other end on the side of the other adjacent heating section 21 is longer than the line width wh of the heating section 21. Therefore, the heat of the heating section 21 can be efficiently dissipated.

[0045] As described above, the heater device is formed adjacent to one surface of the insulating substrate 25, and includes a heating section 21 that generates heat when energized, and a soaking section 27 that is disposed between adjacent heating sections 21 and diffuses the heat of the heating section 21 in the surface direction of one surface.

[0046] Further, the heating section 21 has a linear shape, and at least one of the distance d1 between one adjacent heating section 21 and the soaking section 27 and the distance d2 between the other adjacent heating section and the soaking section is equal to or less than the line width wh of the heating section.

[0047] Also, in the soaking section 27, the distance A between one end on the side of the adjacent heating section 21 and the other end on the side of the other adjacent heating section 21 is longer than the line width wh of the heating section.

[0048] According to the above-described configuration, at least one of the distance d1 between one adjacent heat generating portion 21 and the heat equalizing portion 27 and the distance d2 between the other adjacent heat generating portion 21 and the heat equalizing portion 27 is equal to or less than the line width wh of the heat generating portion 21. Therefore, the heat transfer property from the heat generating portion 21 to the heat equalizing portion 27 can be ensured. Further, since the distance A between one end on the side of one adjacent heat generating portion 21 and the other end on the side of the other adjacent heat generating portion 21 of the heat equalizing portion 27 is longer than the line width wh of the heat generating portion 21, the heat of the heat generating portion can be transferred between the adjacent heat generating portions 21, and heat can be efficiently dissipated. Therefore, further uniformization of the temperature distribution can be achieved.

[0049] Further, the heat equalizing portion 27 and the heat generating portion 21 are formed such that the length of the perpendicular line dropped from the heat equalizing portion 27 to the heat generating portion 21 is a constant length. According to this, the heat of the heat generating portion 21 can be evenly propagated to the heat equalizing portion 27.

[0050] Further, the heat equalizing portion 27 has a first power line 231 that is linear and extends along one adjacent heat generating portion 21, and a second power line 241 that is linear and extends along the other adjacent heat generating portion 21. Further, the heat equalizing portion 27 has a heat radiating portion 232 disposed between the first power line 231 and the second power line 241 and connected to the first power line 231, and a heat radiating portion 242 connected to the second power line 241.

[0051] Therefore, the heat equalizing portion 27 can be made to function as an electrode for forming an electric field for detecting an object.

[0052] Further, the heat radiating portions 232 and 242 are disposed across a center line CL that connects the center of the adjacent heat generating portions 21 where one end on the side of one adjacent heat generating portion 21 and the other end on the side of the other adjacent heat generating portion 21 are adjacent to each other.

[0053] Therefore, the heat of the heat generating portion 21 can be transferred to the portion farthest from the two adjacent heat generating portions 21, and heat can be efficiently dissipated.

[0054] (Second Embodiment) The heater device according to the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 7. In the heater device of this embodiment, the adjacent heat generating portions 21 have curved portions that form a curved shape. Further, the first power line 231 and the second power line 241 also have curved portions that form a curved shape. The first power line 231 is formed along one of the adjacent heat generating portions 21, and the second power line 241 is formed along the other of the adjacent heat generating portions 21. Also, the heat radiating portion 242 has a circular shape.

[0055] Similar to the first embodiment, in this heater device, the distance d1 between one of the adjacent heat generating portions 21 and the heat equalizing portion 27 and the distance d2 between the other of the adjacent heat generating portions 21 and the heat equalizing portion 27 are equal to or less than the line width wh of the heat generating portion 21.

[0056] Also, in the heat equalizing portion 27, the distance A between one end on the side of one of the adjacent heat generating portions 21 and the other end on the side of the other of the adjacent heat generating portions 21 is longer than the line width wh of the heat generating portion 21.

[0057] Also, the heat generating portion having a linear shape can be regarded as a wire stretched in a tensioned state, and sufficient strength cannot be ensured when an external force is applied to the heat generating portion.

[0058] On the other hand, the heat generating portion 21 having a curved shape can be regarded as a wire loosely stretched so as to curve, and the strength when an external force is applied to the heat generating portion 21 can be more ensured as compared with the heat generating portion having a linear shape.

[0059] Similarly, for the first power line 231 and the second power line 241 having a curved shape, the strength when an external force is applied to the power lines 231 and 241 can be more ensured as compared with the power line having a linear shape.

[0060] In this embodiment, the same effects as those achieved by the common configuration of the first embodiment can be obtained in the same manner as in the first embodiment.

[0061] (Third Embodiment) The heater device according to the third embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 8. In the heater device of the present embodiment, adjacent heat generating portions 21 have curved portions that form a curved shape. Further, the first power line 231 and the second power line 241 also have curved portions that form a curved shape. The first power line 231 is formed along one adjacent heat generating portion 21, and the second power line 241 is formed along the other adjacent heat generating portion 21. Further, the heat radiating portion 242 has a rectangular shape.

[0062] The heat generating portion 21 has a straight portion that forms a straight line shape and a curved portion that forms a curved shape, and is formed such that the boundary between the straight portion and the curved portion is continuous.

[0063] The first power line 231 and the second power line 241 also have a straight portion that forms a straight line shape and a curved portion that forms a curved shape, and are formed such that the boundary between the straight portion and the curved portion is continuous.

[0064] In the present embodiment, the same effects as those achieved by the common configuration with the first embodiment can be obtained in the same manner as in the first embodiment.

[0065] (Fourth Embodiment) The heater device according to the fourth embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 9. In the heater device of the present embodiment, the heat generating portion 21 is composed of a plurality of straight portions that form a straight line shape, and is formed so as to protrude to the opposite side of each adjacent heat generating portion 21. The first power line 231 and the second power line 241 are also composed of a plurality of straight portions that form a straight line shape. The first power line 231 is formed along one adjacent heat generating portion 21, and the second power line 241 is formed along the other adjacent heat generating portion 21.

[0066] In the present embodiment, the same effects as those achieved by the common configuration with the first embodiment can be obtained in the same manner as in the first embodiment.

[0067] (Fifth Embodiment) The heater device according to the fifth embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 10. The heat radiating part 232 of the heater device of this embodiment has a first side 232a connected to the first power line 231 and a second side 232b facing the first side 232a. Further, the heat radiating part 242 has a first side 242a connected to the second power line 241 and a second side 242b facing the first side 242a.

[0068] And the length of the second side 232b is longer than the length of the first side 232a. Also, the length of the second side 242b is longer than the length of the first side 242a.

[0069] Thereby, efficient heat radiation can be achieved at a site away from the first power line 231 extending along the heat generating part 21. Also, efficient heat radiation can be achieved at a site away from the second power line 241 extending along the heat generating part 21.

[0070] In this embodiment, the same effects as those achieved by the common configuration of the first embodiment can be obtained in the same manner as in the first embodiment.

[0071] (Sixth Embodiment) The heater device according to the sixth embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 11. The heater device of this embodiment does not have the second power line 241 in the heater devices of the above embodiments.

[0072] Adjacent heat generating parts 21 each have a curved part forming a curved shape. Further, the heat radiating part 242 is formed along the curved part of the heat generating part 21.

[0073] And the heat equalizing part 27 and the heat generating part 21 are formed such that the length of the perpendicular line dropped from the heat equalizing part 27 to the heat generating part 21 is a constant length. Specifically, the length of the perpendicular line dropped from the heat equalizing part 27 to the heat generating part 21 is formed to be a constant length.

[0074] According to this, the heat of the heat generating part 21 can be evenly propagated to the heat equalizing part 27.

[0075] Note that the heater device of the present embodiment does not have the second power line 241 in the heater device of each of the above embodiments, but may be configured to have the second power line 241.

[0076] In the present embodiment, the same effects achieved by the configuration common to the first embodiment can be obtained in the same manner as in the first embodiment.

[0077] (Seventh Embodiment) The heater device according to the seventh embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 12. The heater device of the present embodiment has a soaking section 27 having a first power line 231, a second power line 241, heat radiating sections 232 and 242, and connection sections 233 and 243.

[0078] The connection section 233 is formed to extend from the middle of the first power line 231 toward the second power line 241. Further, the heat radiating section 232 is formed at the tip of the connection section 233 to extend in a direction orthogonal to the connection section 233.

[0079] The connection section 243 is formed to extend from the middle of the second power line 241 toward the first power line 231. Further, the heat radiating section 242 is formed at the tip of the connection section 243 to extend in a direction orthogonal to the connection section 243.

[0080] According to such a configuration, since the heat of the heat generating section 21 is also radiated from the heat radiating sections 232 and 242 to the region sandwiched between the connection section 233 and the connection section 243, the heat of the heat generating section 21 can be transferred to a region away from the heat generating section 21 and efficiently radiated.

[0081] In the present embodiment, the same effects achieved by the configuration common to the first embodiment can be obtained in the same manner as in the first embodiment.

[0082] (Eighth Embodiment) The heater device according to the eighth embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 13. The heater device of this embodiment has a plurality of heat dissipation parts 232 and 242. Further, when the plurality of heat dissipation parts 232 and 242 are projected from one adjacent heating part 21 side to the other adjacent heating part 21 side, the projection areas of the plurality of heat dissipation parts 232 and 242 are formed so as to overlap. According to this, it is possible to prevent the temperature of the adjacent heat dissipation parts 232 and 242 from decreasing.

[0083] In this embodiment, the same effects as those achieved by the common configuration of the first embodiment can be obtained in the same manner as in the first embodiment.

[0084] (Ninth Embodiment) The heater device according to the ninth embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 14. In the heater device of this embodiment, a low heat conductivity part 29 having a lower heat conductivity than the heat dissipation part 242 is formed in the heat dissipation part 242 of the heater device 20 of the first embodiment.

[0085] The low heat conductivity part 29 has a rectangular shape. The low heat conductivity part 29 is formed inside the outer periphery of the heat dissipation part 242. The low heat conductivity part 29 is formed by removing the conductive member in the region of the low heat conductivity part 29 among the conductive members constituting the heat dissipation part 242 so that the insulating substrate 25 is exposed. That is, the heat conductivity of the low heat conductivity part 29 is the same as the heat conductivity of the insulating substrate 25.

[0086] As described above, in this heater device, a low heat conductivity part 29 having a lower heat conductivity than the heat dissipation part 242 is formed inside the outer periphery of the heat dissipation part 242.

[0087] According to this, the movement of heat in the heat dissipation part 242 is suppressed by the low heat conductivity part 29, and when an object comes into contact with the heat dissipation part 242, the temperature of the contacted part can be rapidly decreased.

[0088] (Tenth Embodiment) The heater device according to the 10th embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 15. In the heater device of the 9th embodiment, the shape of the low heat conduction part 29 is rectangular. In contrast, in the heater device of this embodiment, the shape of the low heat conduction part 29 is circular. Thus, the shape of the low heat conduction part 29 may be circular.

[0089] (11th embodiment) The heater device according to the 11th embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 16. In the heater device of the 9th embodiment, one rectangular low heat conduction part 29 is formed in the heat dissipation part 242. In contrast, in the heater device of this embodiment, a plurality of rectangular low heat conduction parts 29 are formed in the heat dissipation part 242. Thus, a plurality of rectangular low heat conduction parts 29 may be formed in the heat dissipation part 242.

[0090] (12th embodiment) The heater device according to the 12th embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 17. In the heater device of the 10th embodiment, one circular low heat conduction part 29 is formed in the heat dissipation part 242. In contrast, in the heater device of this embodiment, a plurality of circular low heat conduction parts 29 are formed in the heat dissipation part 242. Thus, a plurality of circular low heat conduction parts 29 may be formed in the heat dissipation part 242.

[0091] (13th embodiment) The heater device according to the 13th embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 18. The heat equalizing part 27 of the heater device of this embodiment has a heat dissipation part 252 in addition to the heat dissipation part 232 and the heat dissipation part 242. Further, the heat equalizing part 27 of the heater device of this embodiment has a third power line 251 in addition to the first power line 231 and the second power line 241.

[0092] The heat dissipation parts 232 and 242 are arranged between the first power line 231 and the second power line 241. The heat dissipation part 232 is connected to the first power line 231, and the heat dissipation part 242 is connected to the second power line 241. A plurality of heat dissipation parts 232 are formed to branch from the middle of the first power line 231 toward the second power line 241 side. Also, a plurality of heat dissipation parts 242 are formed to branch from the middle of the second power line 241 toward the first power line 231 side. The heat dissipation part 232 is formed to be orthogonal to the first power line 231, and the heat dissipation part 242 is formed to be orthogonal to the second power line 241.

[0093] The heat dissipation part 252 has a rectangular shape. Also, the heat dissipation part 252 is arranged between the first power line 231 and the second power line 241, is connected to the third power line 251, and dissipates the heat of the heat dissipation part 252. Also, the heat dissipation part 252 is arranged between two heat dissipation parts 232 and two heat dissipation parts 242.

[0094] The first power line 231 is linear and is formed to extend in the arrow X direction along one adjacent heat generating part 21. The second power line 241 is linear and is formed to extend in the arrow X direction along the other adjacent heat generating part 21. The third power line 251 extends in the arrow X direction and is formed to be sandwiched between the first power line 231 and the second power line 241. The third power line 251 is formed to be parallel to the first power line 231 and is formed to be parallel to the second power line 241. Also, the length of the perpendicular line dropped from the third power line 251 to the first power line 231 is the same as the length of the perpendicular line dropped from the third power line 251 to the second power line 241.

[0095] The third power line 251 is formed to extend from one end of the heat dissipation part 252 on one side in the arrow X line direction to one side in the arrow X line direction and to extend from the other end of the heat dissipation part 252 on the other side in the arrow X line direction to the other side in the arrow X line direction. The first power line 231 and the second power line 241 each function as a transmitting electrode, and the third power line 251 is configured to function as a receiving electrode.

[0096] The third power line 251 is grounded. When a predetermined voltage is applied to the first power line 231 and the second power line 241 by a control unit (not shown), an electric field is formed between the first power line 231 and the third power line 251, and an electric field is formed between the second power line 241 and the third power line 251. As a result, in addition to the electric lines of force directed from the first power line 231 to the third power line 251, electric lines of force directed from the second power line 241 to the third power line 251 are generated, so that the accuracy of the detection function can be improved.

[0097] Further, since the heater device is formed so as to surround the third power line 251 that functions as a receiving electrode with the first power line 231 and the second power line 241 that both function as transmitting electrodes, the influence on noise from the surroundings can be suppressed, and malfunction can be prevented.

[0098] As described above, the soaking section 27 has the first power line 231 that is linear and extends along one adjacent heating section 21, and the second power line 241 that is linear and extends along the other adjacent heating section. Further, the soaking section 27 has a third power line 251 disposed between the first power line 231 and the second power line 241. Furthermore, the soaking section 27 has heat radiating sections 232 and 242 that are disposed between the first power line 231 and the second power line 241 and are connected to the first power line 231 and the second power line 241 to radiate the heat of the heating section 21.

[0099] Therefore, in addition to the electric lines of force directed from the first power line 231 to the third power line 251, electric lines of force directed from the second power line 241 to the third power line 251 are generated, so that the accuracy of the detection function can be improved.

[0100] (14th Embodiment) The heater device according to the 14th embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 19. The heater device of the present embodiment is different from the heater device of the 13th embodiment in that it further includes a fourth power line 261.

[0101] The fourth power line 261 is formed to extend in the direction of arrow Y, that is, in a direction orthogonal to the direction in which the first power line 231 and the second power line 241 extend. The fourth power line 261 connects between one end of the first power line 231 in the arrow X direction and one end of the second power line 241 in the arrow X direction.

[0102] In this way, by adding the fourth power line 261 and surrounding the soaking section 27 with the first power line 231, the second power line 241, and the fourth power line 261, it is possible to further suppress the influence on noise from the surroundings and prevent malfunction.

[0103] (The 15th Embodiment) The heater device according to the 15th embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 20. The heater device of this embodiment is different from the heater device of the 13th embodiment in that it does not have the heat dissipation sections 232, 242, and 252. Thus, the heat dissipation sections 232, 242, and 252 may be omitted.

[0104] (Other Embodiments) (1) In each of the above embodiments, both the distance d1 between one adjacent heat generating section 21 and the soaking section 27 and the distance d2 between the other adjacent heat generating section 21 and the soaking section 27 are equal to or less than the line width wh of the heat generating section 21.

[0105] On the other hand, it may be configured such that at least one of the distance d1 between one adjacent heat generating section 21 and the soaking section 27 and the distance d2 between the other adjacent heat generating section 21 and the soaking section 27 is equal to or less than the line width wh of the heat generating section 21.

[0106] (2) In the 9th to 12th embodiments above, the low heat conduction section 29 is formed by removing the conductive member in the region of the low heat conduction section 29 from the heat dissipation section 242 formed of a conductive member, so that the insulating substrate 25 is exposed. However, the low heat conduction section 29 can also be formed of a material having a higher thermal conductivity than the insulating substrate 25 and a lower thermal conductivity than the heat generating section.

[0107] (3) In each of the above embodiments, the line width wh of the heat generating portion 21 is constant, but the line width wh of the heat generating portion 21 may not be constant. For example, in a portion where the line width wh of the heat generating portion 21 is the first line width, at least one of the distance d1 between the heat generating portion 21 and the heat equalizing portion 27 and the distance d2 between the other adjacent heat generating portion and the heat equalizing portion may be configured to be equal to or less than the first line width of the heat generating portion. Further, in a portion where the line width wh of the heat generating portion 21 is the second line width longer than the first line width, at least one of the distance d1 between the heat generating portion 21 and the heat equalizing portion 27 and the distance d2 between the other adjacent heat generating portion 21 and the heat equalizing portion 27 may be configured to be equal to or less than the second line width of the heat generating portion 21.

[0108] Note that the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and can be appropriately modified within the scope described in the claims. Further, the above embodiments are not unrelated to each other, and can be appropriately combined except when the combination is clearly impossible. Also, in each of the above embodiments, the elements constituting the embodiment are not necessarily essential except when it is clearly specified as essential or when it is considered to be clearly essential in principle. Further, in each of the above embodiments, when numerical values such as the number, numerical value, amount, range, etc. of the components of the embodiment are mentioned, they are not limited to the specific number except when it is clearly specified as essential or when it is clearly limited to a specific number in principle. Also, in each of the above embodiments, when referring to the material, shape, positional relationship, etc. of the components, etc., they are not limited to the material, shape, positional relationship, etc. except when it is clearly specified or when it is clearly limited to a specific material, shape, positional relationship, etc. in principle.

[0109] (Summary) According to the first aspect shown in part or all of the above embodiments, the heater device includes a heating part that is formed adjacent to one surface of an insulating substrate and generates heat when energized. Further, a heat sink part is provided between adjacent heating parts and diffuses the heat of the heating parts in the surface direction of one surface. Further, the heating part has a linear shape. Further, at least one of the distance between one adjacent heating part and the heat sink part and the distance between the other adjacent heating part and the heat sink part is equal to or less than the line width of the heating part. Further, the heat sink part has a length between one end on the side of one adjacent heating part and the other end on the side of the other adjacent heating part that is longer than the line width of the heating part.

[0110] Further, according to the second aspect, the heat sink part and the heating part are formed such that the length of the perpendicular line dropped from the heat sink part to the heating part is a constant length. According to this, the heat of the heating part can be evenly propagated to the heat sink part.

[0111] Further, according to the third aspect, the heat sink part has a first power line that is linear and extends along one adjacent heating part, and a second power line that is linear and extends along the other adjacent heating part.

[0112] Further, the heat sink part has a plurality of heat radiating parts that are arranged between the first power line and the second power line and are connected to either the first power line or the second power line to radiate the heat of the heating part.

[0113] Therefore, the heat sink part can function as an electrode for forming an electric field for detecting an object.

[0114] Further, according to the fourth aspect, the heat sink part has a first power line that is linear and extends along one adjacent heating part, and a second power line that is linear and extends along the other adjacent heating part. Further, the heat sink part has a third power line arranged between the first power line and the second power line, and a heat radiating part that is arranged between the first power line and the second power line and is connected to either the first power line or the second power line to radiate the heat of the heating part.

[0115] Therefore, in addition to the electric field lines directed from the first power line to the third power line, electric field lines directed from the second power line to the third power line are generated, so that the accuracy of the detection function can be improved.

[0116] Also, according to a fifth aspect, it has a fourth power line (261) connecting the first power line and the second power line.

[0117] Therefore, it is possible to surround the soaking section with the first power line, the second power line, and the fourth power line. Furthermore, the influence on noise from the surroundings can be suppressed, and malfunction can be prevented.

[0118] Also, according to a sixth aspect, the heat dissipation section is arranged across the center line of the heat generating sections where one end on the side of one adjacent heat generating section and the other end on the side of the other adjacent heat generating section are adjacent.

[0119] Therefore, the heat of the heat generating section can be transferred to the part farthest from both adjacent heat generating sections, and heat can be dissipated efficiently.

[0120] Also, according to a seventh aspect, the heat dissipation section has a first side connected to either the first power line or the second power line, and a second side facing the first side. Also, the length of the second side is longer than the length of the first side.

[0121] According to this, heat can be efficiently dissipated at a part away from the first power line extending along the heat generating section. Also, heat can be efficiently dissipated at a part away from the second power line extending along the heat generating section.

[0122] Also, according to an eighth aspect, a low heat conductivity section having a lower heat conductivity than the heat dissipation section is formed inside the outer periphery of the heat dissipation section.

[0123] According to this, the movement of heat in the heat dissipation section is suppressed by the low heat conductivity section, and when an object comes into contact with the heat dissipation section, the temperature of the contacted part can be rapidly decreased.

[0124] Also, according to a ninth aspect, the heater device includes a plurality of heat dissipation parts. Further, when the plurality of heat dissipation parts are projected from one adjacent heating part side to the other adjacent heating part side, the projection regions of the plurality of heat equalizing parts are formed to overlap each other. According to this, it is possible to prevent a temperature drop of adjacent heat dissipation parts.

Description of Signs

[0125] 20 Heater device 21 Heating part 25 Insulating substrate 26 Cover member 27 Heat equalizing part 231 First power line 232, 242 Heat dissipation part 241 Second power line

Claims

1. A heater device, a heating part (21) formed adjacent to one surface of an insulating substrate (25) and generating heat upon energization, and a heat equalizing part (27) disposed between adjacent ones of the heating parts and diffusing the heat of the heating parts in the surface direction of the one surface, wherein the heating part has a linear shape, at least one of a distance (d1) between one adjacent heating part and the heat equalizing part and a distance (d2) between the other adjacent heating part and the heat equalizing part is equal to or less than a line width (wh) of the heating part, wherein a distance (A) between one end on the side of one adjacent heating part and the other end on the side of the other adjacent heating part of the heat equalizing part is longer than the line width (wh) of the heating part, and the heat equalizing part includes a first power line (231) having a linear shape and extending along one adjacent heating part, a second power line (241) having a linear shape and extending along the other adjacent heating part, and a heat radiating part (232, 242) disposed between the first power line and the second power line and connected to either one of the first power line and the second power line to radiate the heat of the heating part.

2. A heater device, a heating part (21) formed adjacent to one surface of an insulating substrate (25) and generating heat upon energization, and a heat equalizing part (27) disposed between adjacent ones of the heating parts and diffusing the heat of the heating parts in the surface direction of the one surface, wherein the heating part has a linear shape, at least one of a distance (d1) between one adjacent heating part and the heat equalizing part and a distance (d2) between the other adjacent heating part and the heat equalizing part is equal to or less than a line width (wh) of the heating part, wherein a distance (A) between one end on the side of one adjacent heating part and the other end on the side of the other adjacent heating part of the heat equalizing part is longer than the line width (wh) of the heating part, The soaking section has a first power line (231) that forms a linear shape and extends along one of the adjacent heating sections, a second power line (241) that forms a linear shape and extends along the other adjacent heating section, a third power line (251) disposed between the first power line and the second power line, and a heat dissipation section (252) that is disposed between the first power line and the second power line, is connected to the third power line, and dissipates the heat of the heating section. The heater device has these components.

3. The heater device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the soaking section and the heating section are formed such that the length of a perpendicular line dropped from the soaking section to the heating section is a constant length.

4. The heater device according to claim 2, wherein the soaking section has a fourth power line (261) that connects the first power line and the second power line.

5. The heater device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein a low heat conductivity section (29) having a lower heat conductivity than the heat dissipation section is formed inside the outer periphery of the heat dissipation section.

6. Comprising a plurality of the heat dissipation sections, The heater device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the plurality of heat dissipation sections are arranged across a center line (CL) that connects the center of the heating section where one end on the side of one adjacent heating section and the other end on the side of the other adjacent heating section adjacent to each other are adjacent.

7. The plurality of heat dissipation sections have a first side (232a, 242a) connected to either the first power line or the second power line, and a second side (232b, 242b) facing the first side, The heater device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the length of the second side is longer than the length of the first side.

8. Comprising a plurality of the heat dissipation sections, The heater device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein when the plurality of heat radiating portions are projected from one adjacent heat generating portion side to the other adjacent heat generating portion side, the projection regions of the plurality of heat radiating portions overlap each other.

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