Vehicle seat air conditioning device

Abstract

To provide a vehicular seat air-conditioning device which can detect a seated state of an occupant with a simple configuration.SOLUTION: A vehicular seat air-conditioning device 3 comprises: a blower 30 provided in a seat 1; at least one of an air intake duct for sucking air guided by the blower 30 from a surface of the seat 1 and a discharge duct for discharging air guided by the blower 30 from the surface of the seat 1; and a control part 60 which is electrically connected with the blower 30. The blower 30 has a current detection circuit 51 for detecting a current consumption of the blower 30, and the control part 60 determines whether or not an occupant is seated in the seat 1 on the basis of the current consumption detected by the current detection circuit 51.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 5

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a vehicle seat air conditioner that blows air to an occupant sitting on a seat.

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a conventional vehicle seat air conditioner. The vehicle seat air conditioner includes an air conditioner provided in a vehicle seat, an occupant detection means for detecting an occupant sitting on the seat, an air duct for guiding the air guided by the air conditioner to a plurality of air outlets, and an air conditioning control means for controlling while switching between a normal mode which is an operation mode at the time of occupant detection and a restricted mode which is an operation mode at the time of non-occupant detection and in which the operation output is restricted compared to the normal mode.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, in a conventional vehicle seat air conditioner, in order to detect an occupant sitting on the seat, it is necessary to provide an occupant detection sensor or the like as the occupant detection means. For this reason, there is a problem that the configuration of the vehicle seat air conditioner becomes complicated.

[0005] Therefore, the present disclosure provides a vehicle seat air conditioner that can detect the seating of an occupant with a simple configuration.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] A vehicle seat air conditioning device according to an aspect of the present disclosure includes a blower built into the seat, an intake duct that sucks air guided by the blower from the surface of the seat, and at least one of a discharge duct that discharges air guided by the blower from the surface of the seat, and a control unit electrically connected to the blower. The seat has an air intake port on the surface where the occupant sits, for the intake duct to suck in the air. The blower has a current detection circuit that detects the current consumption of the blower, and the control unit determines the presence or absence of an occupant sitting on the seat based on the current consumption detected by the current detection circuit. When the control unit determines whether an occupant is seated on the seat, if the current consumption is lower than a first threshold value, it determines that the occupant is seated on the seat. to do.

[0007] Note that this general or specific aspect may be implemented in any combination of a system, a method, an integrated circuit, or the like.

Effect of the Invention

[0008] The vehicle seat air conditioning device of the present disclosure can detect the seating of an occupant with a simple configuration.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0009]

Figure 1

Figure 2

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Figure 13

Figure 14

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[0010] A vehicle seat air conditioner according to an aspect of the present disclosure includes a blower built into the seat, an intake duct that sucks air guided by the blower from the surface of the seat, and at least one of a discharge duct that discharges air guided by the blower from the surface of the seat, and a control unit electrically connected to the blower. The blower has a current detection circuit that detects the current consumption of the blower, and the control unit determines the presence or absence of a passenger sitting on the seat based on the current consumption detected by the current detection circuit.

[0011] For example, when the intake port of the intake duct or the discharge port of the discharge duct is covered by an occupant sitting on the seat, the flow rate of the air passing through the intake port and the discharge port tends to decrease. When the rotational speed of the blower is constant, when the flow rate of the air passing through the intake port and the discharge port decreases, the power consumption current of the blower also tends to decrease. This is presumably because the air pressure between the covered intake port or discharge port and the blower decreases, that is, the work amount of the blower decreases due to the decrease in the resistance between the air and the propeller of the blower.

[0012] Therefore, in the present disclosure, paying attention to such characteristics, the control unit can determine the presence or absence of an occupant's seating by controlling the blower according to the magnitude of the power consumption current detected by the current detection circuit. For example, if the power consumption current detected by the current detection circuit is smaller than the power consumption current when the occupant is not sitting on the seat, the control unit can determine that the occupant is sitting on the seat.

[0013] Therefore, this vehicle seat air conditioner can detect the seating of an occupant with a simple configuration.

[0014] In particular, unlike conventional vehicle seat air conditioners, since the seating of an occupant can be detected without separately providing a sensor, an increase in the product cost of the vehicle seat air conditioner can be suppressed.

[0015] Further, in the vehicle seat air conditioner according to one aspect of the present disclosure, when the control unit determines the presence or absence of an occupant's seating on the seat, if the power consumption current is lower than a first threshold value, it is determined that the occupant is sitting on the seat.

[0016] According to this, when the power consumption current is lower than the first threshold value, that is, when the power consumption current is smaller than the power consumption current when the occupant is not sitting on the seat, the control unit can determine that the occupant is sitting on the seat. Since the control unit can control the blower by accurately determining the presence or absence of the occupant's seating, the power consumption of the blower when there is no occupant can be suppressed.

[0017] Further, in the vehicle seat air conditioner according to one aspect of the present disclosure, when the control unit determines that the occupant is seated on the seat, the control unit controls the blower so that the rotation speed of the blower becomes a steady rotation speed.

[0018] According to this, when the occupant is seated on the seat, the control unit can keep the power supplied to the blower constant and stabilize the rotation speed of the blower at the steady rotation speed. Therefore, by making the air volume blown to the occupant more appropriate, the comfort of the occupant can be ensured more effectively.

[0019] Further, in the vehicle seat air conditioner according to one aspect of the present disclosure, when the control unit determines the presence or absence of an occupant sitting on the seat, if the consumption current is equal to or greater than the first threshold value, the control unit determines that the occupant is not seated on the seat. When it is determined that the occupant is not seated on the seat, the control unit controls the blower so that the rotation speed is lower than the rotation speed of the blower when it is determined that the occupant is seated on the seat.

[0020] According to this, when the occupant is not seated on the seat, the control unit can control the blower while reducing the power supplied to the blower. Therefore, the power consumption can be energy-saving.

[0021] Further, in the vehicle seat air conditioner according to one aspect of the present disclosure, the control unit updates the consumption current detected by the current detection circuit as the first threshold value by driving the blower when the vehicle is not in use or when the door is unlocked after non-use.

[0022] According to this, even if there is aging deterioration of the seat and the blower, by updating the consumption current as the first threshold value, the accuracy of determining whether the occupant is seated on the seat can be ensured.

[0023] Further, in the vehicle seat air conditioner according to one aspect of the present disclosure, a voltage detection circuit for detecting the drive voltage of the blower is further provided, and the control unit corrects the power consumption current of the blower based on the drive voltage detected by the voltage detection circuit.

[0024] According to this, by measuring in advance the power consumption current of the blower due to fluctuations in the applied voltage, the power consumption current can be corrected. As a result, even if there are fluctuations in the applied voltage due to battery deterioration or the like, it is possible to more accurately determine whether or not a passenger is sitting on the seat.

[0025] Further, in the vehicle seat air conditioner according to one aspect of the present disclosure, a voltage detection circuit for detecting the drive voltage of the blower is further provided, and the control unit corrects the first threshold value based on the drive voltage detected by the voltage detection circuit.

[0026] According to this, by measuring in advance the power consumption current of the blower due to fluctuations in the applied voltage, the first threshold value can also be corrected. As a result, even if there are fluctuations in the applied voltage due to battery deterioration or the like, it is possible to more accurately determine whether or not a passenger is sitting on the seat.

[0027] Further, in the vehicle seat air conditioner according to one aspect of the present disclosure, the current detection circuit is also used as an overcurrent detection circuit for the blower.

[0028] According to this, the current detection circuit can detect the overcurrent of the blower without separately providing an overcurrent detection circuit for the blower. Alternatively, an overcurrent detection circuit originally provided in the blower can be used as the current detection circuit. For this reason, it is possible to suppress the complication of the configuration of the vehicle seat air conditioner and to suppress the increase in the product cost.

[0029] Further, in the vehicle seat air conditioner according to one aspect of the present disclosure, when the power consumption current exceeds the upper limit value, the control unit outputs a warning signal to an external device.

[0030] Thus, when the consumption current exceeds a predetermined upper limit value, the blower may be malfunctioning or may be controlled at a higher rotation speed than normal. Therefore, since malfunctions of the blower, blockages in the intake duct and the discharge duct, and deterioration of the cushion can be predicted, it is possible to notify the passenger to replace, clean, or replace the cushion of the blower. As a result, the passenger can appropriately maintain the state of the seat.

[0031] Further, in the vehicle seat air conditioner according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the intake duct is formed at the center and the outer edge of the seat surface, which is the surface on which a person sits on the seat.

[0032] According to this, between the buttocks and the thighs and the seat surface, by sucking air from the air intake port of the intake duct formed at the center of the seat surface, it is possible to suppress sweating of a person's buttocks and thighs. In addition, since the air intake port of the intake duct formed at the outer edge of the seat surface is formed at a position where it is difficult to be covered by a person's buttocks and thighs, it is possible to suck air around the seat. For example, even if it is not possible to suck air from the air intake port of the intake duct formed at the center of the seat surface, since it is possible to suck air from the air intake port of the intake duct formed at the outer edge of the seat surface, it is possible to discharge air from the discharge port.

[0033] Further, in the vehicle seat air conditioner according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the outer edge portion is at least one of the back portion and the front end portion of the seat surface.

[0034] According to this, even at the outer edge of the seat surface, particularly the back portion and the front end portion of the seat surface, it is more difficult to be covered by a person's buttocks and thighs. Therefore, the accuracy of being able to suck air from the air intake port is further increased.

[0035] In the vehicle seat air conditioner according to one aspect of the present disclosure, the control unit controls the rotation speed of the blower based on the consumption current detected by the current detection circuit.

[0036] For example, when the intake port of the intake duct or the discharge port of the discharge duct is covered by an occupant sitting on the seat, the flow rate of the air passing through the intake port and the discharge port tends to decrease. When the rotational speed of the blower is constant, if the flow rate of the air passing through the intake port and the discharge port decreases, the power consumption current of the blower also tends to decrease. This is presumably because the air pressure between the covered intake port or discharge port and the blower decreases, that is, the work amount of the blower decreases due to the decrease in the resistance between the air and the propeller of the blower.

[0037] Further, if the power consumption current detected by the current detection circuit is small, it is considered that at least one of the intake port and the discharge port is covered by an occupant with a large build, and the air volume passing through the intake port and the discharge port is smaller than when an occupant with an ordinary build is sitting on the seat. Also, if the power consumption current detected by the current detection circuit is large, it is considered that at least one of the intake port and the discharge port is covered by an occupant with a small build, and the air volume passing through the intake port and the discharge port is larger than when an occupant with an ordinary build is sitting on the seat.

[0038] Therefore, according to the present disclosure, if the power consumption current is smaller than when an occupant with an ordinary build is sitting on the seat, the air volume of the blower will decrease, so the control unit can control to increase the rotational speed of the blower. Also, if the power consumption current is larger than when an occupant with an ordinary build is sitting on the seat, the air volume of the blower will increase, so the control unit can control to decrease the rotational speed of the blower.

[0039] Therefore, this vehicle seat air conditioning device can ensure the comfort of the occupant by appropriately adjusting the air volume blown to the occupant.

[0040] Also, in the vehicle seat air conditioning device according to one aspect of the present disclosure, the control unit controls the blower such that the rotational speed increases as the power consumption current is lower than a second threshold value, and controls the blower such that the rotational speed decreases as the power consumption current is equal to or higher than the second threshold value.

[0041] According to this, the smaller the current consumption becomes compared to the case where an occupant of normal build is seated on the seat, the more the control unit can control to increase the rotational speed of the blower. Further, the larger the current consumption becomes compared to the case where an occupant of normal build is seated on the seat, the more the control unit can control to decrease the rotational speed of the blower. Therefore, by making the amount of air blown to the occupant more appropriate, the comfort of the occupant can be ensured more effectively.

[0042] Also, in the vehicle seat air conditioner according to one aspect of the present disclosure, the control unit controls the blower so that the amount of air discharged from the surface of the seat is the same regardless of the state of the occupant seated on the seat.

[0043] According to this, regardless of the build and body position of the occupant, the air discharged from the surface of the seat can be made uniform. Therefore, by making the amount of air blown to the occupant more appropriate, the comfort of the occupant can be ensured more effectively.

[0044] Also, in the vehicle seat air conditioner according to one aspect of the present disclosure, the control unit determines the build of the occupant seated on the seat based on the current consumption, and outputs a signal indicating the build of the occupant, which is the determination result, to an external device.

[0045] According to this, if the current consumption detected by the current detection circuit is small, the control unit can determine that an occupant with a large build is seated on the seat. Further, if the current consumption detected by the current detection circuit is large, the control unit can determine that an occupant with a small build is seated on the seat.

[0046] Also, the control unit can output a signal indicating the build of the occupant to an external device. Thereby, when the external device is a vehicle control unit (ECU: Electronic Control Unit) or the like, the vehicle control unit can also control the orientation of the imaging device toward the direction where the face of the occupant is assumed to exist by acquiring the signal indicating the build of the occupant.

[0047] Further, in the vehicle seat air conditioner according to one aspect of the present disclosure, the control unit determines whether or not the posture of the occupant seated on the seat has changed based on the change in the current consumption, and outputs a signal indicating that there is a change in the posture of the occupant, which is the result of the determination, to the external device.

[0048] According to this, if the amount of change in the current consumption detected by the current detection circuit is large, the control unit can determine that the posture of the occupant is disrupted. Further, if the amount of change in the current consumption detected by the current detection circuit is small, the control unit can determine that the occupant is correctly seated on the seat.

[0049] Further, when the external device is a vehicle control unit or the like, the vehicle control unit can control the orientation of the imaging device in the direction where the face of the occupant is assumed to exist based on the signal indicating the posture of the occupant.

[0050] Further, in the vehicle seat air conditioner according to one aspect of the present disclosure, a voltage detection circuit for detecting the drive voltage of the blower is further provided, and the control unit corrects the second threshold value corresponding to the current consumption of the blower based on the drive voltage detected by the voltage detection circuit.

[0051] According to this, the second threshold value can also be corrected by measuring in advance the current consumption of the blower due to fluctuations in the applied voltage. Thereby, even if there are fluctuations in the applied voltage due to deterioration of the battery or the like, the physique and posture of the occupant can be determined more accurately based on the current consumption.

[0052] Further, in the vehicle seat air conditioner according to one aspect of the present disclosure, the control unit corrects the correlation between the current consumption for controlling the rotational speed and the rotational speed based on the current consumption detected by the current detection circuit by driving the blower when the vehicle is not in use or when the door is unlocked after not being in use.

[0053] In this way, even if aging deterioration of the seat and the blower occurs, it becomes possible to ensure a uniform air volume by correcting the correlation.

[0054] Note that all of the embodiments described below show comprehensive or specific examples. The numerical values, shapes, materials, components, arrangement positions and connection forms of the components, steps, order of steps, etc. shown in the following embodiments are merely examples and are not intended to limit the present disclosure. In addition, among the components in the following embodiments, the components not described in the independent claims are described as optional components.

[0055] Also, each figure is a schematic diagram and is not necessarily drawn precisely. In each figure, the same reference numerals are given to the same constituent members. In the following embodiments, expressions such as a substantially rectangular shape are used. For example, a substantially rectangular shape not only means that it is completely rectangular, but also means that it is substantially rectangular, that is, for example, it includes an error of about several percent. In addition, a substantially rectangular shape means a rectangular shape within the range in which the effects of the present disclosure can be achieved. The same applies to other expressions using "substantially".

[0056] In the following description, the front-rear direction of the seat is referred to as the X-axis direction, and the up-down direction of the seat is referred to as the Z-axis direction. Further, the left-right direction of the seat, that is, the direction perpendicular to each of the X-axis direction and the Z-axis direction is referred to as the Y-axis direction. Also, in the X-axis direction, the front side of the seat is referred to as the plus direction side, and the rear side of the seat is referred to as the minus direction side. In the Y-axis direction, the left side of the seat (the front right side when looking at FIG. 1) is referred to as the plus direction side, and the opposite side is referred to as the minus direction side. Also, the right side means the right side of the occupant with respect to the traveling direction of the vehicle when the occupant is seated on the seat, and is the Y-axis minus direction. Also, the left side means the left side of the occupant with respect to the traveling direction of the vehicle when the occupant is seated on the seat, and is the Y-axis plus direction. In the Z-axis direction, the upper side of the seat is referred to as the plus direction side, and the lower side of the seat is referred to as the minus direction side. The same applies to FIGS. 2 and later.

[0057] Hereinafter, the embodiments will be specifically described with reference to the drawings.

[0058] (Embodiment 1) <Configuration: Seat 1> FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing the appearance of a seat 1 equipped with a vehicle seat air conditioner 3 in Embodiment 1. FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the appearance of the seat 1 equipped with the vehicle seat air conditioner 3 along line II-II in FIG. 1 and a cross-sectional view of the seat 1. FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a vehicle 2 equipped with the vehicle seat air conditioner 3 in Embodiment 1.

[0059] As shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, for example, the seat 1 equipped in the vehicle 2 or the like can cool or warm the occupant sitting on the seat 1 by blowing air onto the occupant. The seat 1 can cool or warm the body of the occupant by blowing air onto the head, neck, acromion, back, waist, buttocks, thighs, etc. of the occupant sitting on the seat 1. In the present embodiment, air is sucked from the seat surface 11c of the seat 1 corresponding to the buttocks and thighs, and air is discharged from the surface of the seat back 13 of the seat 1 corresponding to the acromion, back, and waist (the surface on the side of the occupant sitting on the seat 1) to generate an air flow. Note that air may be sucked from the surface of the seat back 13 and air may be discharged from the seat surface 11c of the seat 1. Also, air may be sucked from locations other than the seat surface 11c of the seat 1, for example, the lower side, right side, or left side of the seat portion 10 of the seat 1, the rear side, right side, or left side of the seat back 13, and air may be discharged from the surface of the seat back 13 or the seat surface 11c of the seat 1. Therefore, in the vehicle seat air conditioner 3, the air intake location and the air discharge / intake location are not limited to the present embodiment. For this reason, the figures illustrated in FIG. 1 and the like are merely examples and are not limited to the examples in FIG. 1 and the like.

[0060] Such a seat 1 includes a seat portion 10 for the occupant to sit on, a seat back 13, a headrest 15, a vehicle seat air conditioner 3, and a power supply unit 70.

[0061] [Seat portion 10] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the seat portion 10 is a seat cushion that supports the buttocks and thighs of the occupant sitting on the seat 1. The seat portion 10 includes a first seat pad 11a corresponding to a cushion material and a first seat cover 11b that covers the first seat pad 11a.

[0062] The first seat pad 11a is made of, for example, urethane foam and constitutes the seat body. The first seat pad 11a is in the form of a thick substantially rectangular plate and is arranged in a posture substantially parallel to the X-Y plane. The first seat pad 11a supports the buttocks and thighs of the sitting occupant.

[0063] The first seat pad 11a is provided with an intake duct 31 for guiding the air inhaled from the first vent 12a of the seat surface 11c, which is the surface on the positive Z-axis direction side of the first seat cover 11b. Further, the first seat pad 11a is provided with an intake duct 31, a part of the discharge duct 32, and a blower 30, etc., which are components of the vehicle seat air conditioner 3. Specifically, these are fixed to the spring directly below the first seat pad 11a, but the description of the spring is omitted in FIG. 2. Note that the components of the vehicle seat air conditioner 3 are not limited to the configuration fixed to the spring, and may be configured to be fixed to the seat frame at the front of the first seat pad 11a. By driving the blower 30, air flows into the intake duct 31 in the first seat pad 11a.

[0064] The first seat cover 11b is a cover that covers the first seat pad 11a. The first seat cover 11b is, for example, a leather cover, a fiber cover, or the like.

[0065] The first seat cover 11b is formed with a first ventilation opening 12a for sucking in air. The first ventilation opening 12a is the seating surface 11c which is the surface on the side where the occupant sits on the seat portion 10 (the surface on the +Z-axis direction side), and is formed at a position corresponding to the intake port 31a of the vehicle seat air conditioner 3. In the present embodiment, a plurality of first ventilation openings 12a are formed along the X-axis direction in the first seat cover 11b, and a plurality of rows arranged in the Y-axis direction are formed. In FIG. 1, the solid arrows correspond to the first ventilation openings 12a.

[0066] The air sucked in from the first ventilation opening 12a is sucked in from the intake port 31a of the vehicle seat air conditioner 3 and guided to the intake duct 31. Therefore, the first ventilation opening 12a also serves as an intake port for sucking the air that convects on the seating surface 11c by the suction force from the intake port 31a due to the drive of the vehicle seat air conditioner 3. The first ventilation opening 12a may be a part of the intake duct 31.

[0067] [Seat back 13] The seat back 13 is a backrest portion that supports the acromion, back, and waist of the occupant sitting on the seat 1. The seat back 13 is long along the Z-axis direction and is arranged so as to rise with respect to the seat portion 10. The seat back 13 has a second seat pad 13a corresponding to a cushion material and a second seat cover 13b that covers the second seat pad 13a.

[0068] The second seat pad 13a is made of, for example, urethane foam or the like, and has a configuration in which the backrest angle can be adjusted around the Y-axis according to the posture at the lower part of the seat back 13. The second seat pad 13a supports the acromion, back, and waist of the sitting occupant.

[0069] A part of the discharge duct 32 for discharging the air sucked in from the first ventilation opening 12a is provided in the second seat pad 13a. The air guided to the intake duct 31 in the first seat pad 11a by the drive of the blower 30 is discharged from the discharge port 32a of the discharge duct 32 in the second seat pad 13a.

[0070] The second seat cover 13b is a cover that covers the second seat pad 13a. The second seat cover 13b is, for example, a leather cover, a fiber cover, or the like.

[0071] A plurality of second ventilation openings 12b for discharging the inhaled air are formed in the second seat cover 13b. The second ventilation openings 12b are on the surface facing the occupant sitting on the seat portion 10 (the surface on the +X-axis direction side), and are formed at positions corresponding to the discharge port 32a of the discharge duct 32. In the present embodiment, a plurality of second ventilation openings 12b are formed in the second seat cover 13b respectively. In FIG. 1, the dashed arrows correspond to the discharge duct 32. The plurality of second ventilation openings 12b are formed at positions corresponding to the back, waist, both arms, both sides, or both shoulders of the occupant.

[0072] The air that is guided to the intake duct 31 and the discharge duct 32 by the drive of the vehicle seat air conditioner 3 and discharged from the discharge port 32a passes through the plurality of second ventilation openings 12b. Therefore, the second ventilation openings 12b also serve as discharge ports for discharging air to the outside of the seat 1. The second ventilation openings 12b may be a part of the discharge duct 32.

[0073] [Headrest 15] The headrest 15 is a headrest that supports the head of the occupant sitting on the seat 1. The headrest 15 is fixed to the end on the +Z-axis direction side of the seat back 13.

[0074] Note that a part of the plurality of second ventilation openings 12b may be formed in the headrest 15. That is, a part of the discharge duct 32 may be provided in the headrest 15.

[0075] [Vehicle seat air conditioner 3] The vehicle seat air conditioner 3 is an air conditioner provided in the seat 1 and capable of blowing air from behind the occupant toward the occupant seated on the seat 1. The vehicle seat air conditioner 3 sucks in the air that convects around the seat 1 and blows the sucked-in air to perform air blowing. For this reason, if the temperature around the seat 1 is higher than the normal temperature, it becomes warm air, and if it is lower than the normal temperature, it becomes cold air. Note that the vehicle seat air conditioner 3 may be equipped with an air conditioner capable of performing heating and cooling.

[0076] As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the vehicle seat air conditioner 3 includes a blower 30, an intake duct 31, a discharge duct 32, a voltage detection circuit 52, a control unit 60, and a storage unit 80. In the present embodiment, an example in which the vehicle seat air conditioner 3 has the intake duct 31 and the discharge duct 32 is shown, but it may be sufficient to include at least one of the intake duct 31 and the discharge duct 32.

[0077] The blower 30 can suck air from the first ventilation port 12a formed in the first seat cover 11b of the seat 1 and discharge the sucked-in air from the second ventilation port 12b formed in the second seat pad 13a. Specifically, the blower 30 is electrically connected to the control unit 60 and, by being driven and controlled by the control unit 60, sucks air from the intake port 31a through the first ventilation port 12a, and discharges the sucked-in air from the second ventilation port 12b through the discharge port 32a via the intake duct 31 and the discharge duct 32.

[0078] The blower 30 is built in the first seat pad 11a (arranged inside the first seat pad 11a in the present embodiment) in order to suck air from the intake port 31a of the first seat cover 11b. In the present embodiment, the blower 30 is arranged on the path of the intake duct 31, but as long as it can form the air flow path of the air flowing through the intake duct 31 and the discharge duct 32, it may be arranged outside the intake duct 31. The blower 30 may be arranged outside the first seat pad 11a, and the arrangement position is not particularly limited.

[0079] Further, the blower 30 has a current detection circuit 51 that detects the current consumed by the blower 30. That is, the current detection circuit 51 detects the current supplied from the power supply unit 70 via the control unit 60 and consumed by the driving of the blower 30, which is the consumed current. The current detection circuit 51 outputs information indicating the detected consumed current to the control unit 60 at predetermined time intervals.

[0080] The current detection circuit 51 also serves as an overcurrent detection circuit for the blower 30. The current detection circuit 51 detects the overcurrent of the blower 30 in order to suppress damage to the blower 30 from a current exceeding the rated value. The current detection circuit 51 also outputs the detected overcurrent to the control unit 60 at predetermined time intervals as information indicating the consumed current. The information indicating the consumed current is at the time when the current detection circuit 51 detects the consumed current of the blower 30, that is, substantially the current currently consumed by the blower 30.

[0081] The intake duct 31 intakes the air guided by the blower 30 from the surface of the seat 1 (the surface on the side of the occupant sitting on the seat 1). That is, the intake duct 31 guides the air sucked in from the intake port 31a provided in the seat portion 10 of the seat 1 to the discharge duct 32, so that air flows in the intake duct 31. One end of the intake duct 31 forms the intake port 31a, and the other end is connected to the blower 30. The intake port 31a can intake air from the surface (the seat surface 11c) on the side where the occupant sits on the seat portion 10 and corresponds to the first vent 12a of the first seat cover 11b. When viewed along the Z-axis direction, the intake port 31a overlaps with the first vent 12a. In the present embodiment, the intake port 31a intakes air through the first vent 12a, but may be configured to directly intake air.

[0082] In the present embodiment, a plurality of intake ports 31a are formed. Specifically, the intake ports 31a are formed in the central portion 11c1 and the outer edge portion 11c2 of the seat surface 11c, which is the surface on the side where a person sits on the seat 1.

[0083] The air inlets 31a of the central portion 11c1 are formed in plurality along the X-axis direction. Further, the air inlets 31a of the outer edge portion 11c2 are respectively arranged on the Y-axis plus direction side and the Y-axis minus direction side with respect to the air inlets 31a of the central portion 11c1, and are formed in plurality along the X-axis direction. That is, on the surface of the first seat pad 11a on the Z-axis plus direction side, a plurality of air inlets 31a formed along the X-axis direction are formed in a plurality of rows so as to be arranged in the Y-axis direction.

[0084] Further, the outer edge portion 11c2 is at least one of the inner portion 11d and the front end portion 11e of the seat surface 11c. In the present embodiment, the outer edge portion 11c2 further includes both side portions 11f on the Y-axis plus direction side of the first seat pad 11a with respect to the central portion 11c1, and both side portions 11f on the Y-axis minus direction side of the first seat pad 11a with respect to the central portion 11c1.

[0085] The inner portion 11d of the seat surface 11c is on the rear side with respect to the central portion 11c1 of the seat surface 11c. The front end portion 11e of the seat surface 11c is on the front side with respect to the central portion 11c1 of the seat surface 11c. Both side portions 11f on the Y-axis plus direction side of the seat surface 11c are on the left side with respect to the central portion 11c1 of the seat surface 11c. Both side portions 11f on the Y-axis minus direction side of the seat surface 11c are on the right side with respect to the central portion 11c1 of the seat surface 11c. Both side portions 11f on the Y-axis plus direction side and both side portions 11f on the Y-axis minus direction side are the both peak portions of the seat portion 10.

[0086] The air inlets 31a formed in the inner portion 11d, the front end portion 11e, both side portions 11f on the Y-axis plus direction side, and both side portions 11f on the Y-axis minus direction side will be arranged at positions that are difficult to be blocked by the buttocks and thighs when a person sits on the seat 1.

[0087] The discharge duct 32 discharges the air guided by the blower 30 from the surface of the seat 1. That is, the discharge duct 32 further guides the air guided to the intake duct 31 and discharges it from the discharge port 32a provided in the seat back 13 of the seat 1. One end of the discharge duct 32 forms the discharge port 32a, and the other end is connected to the blower 30. The discharge port 32a corresponds to the second vent 12b of the second seat cover 13b. When viewed along the X-axis direction, the discharge port 32a overlaps the second vent 12b. In the present embodiment, the discharge port 32a discharges air through the second vent 12b, but it may also be configured to directly discharge air.

[0088] In the present embodiment, the discharge duct 32 extends from the blower 30 in the first seat pad 11a to the second seat pad 13a. Also, in the present embodiment, the discharge duct 32 extends to a plurality of second vents 12b formed in the intermediate portion in the Z-axis direction in the second seat cover 13b, and further extends to a plurality of second vents 12b formed in the positive Y-axis direction. The discharge port 32a is disposed at a position corresponding to at least one of the head, neck, acromion, back, and waist of the occupant.

[0089] Note that, in the present embodiment, the intake duct 31 is provided in the seat portion 10, and the discharge duct 32 is provided straddling from the seat portion 10 to the seat back 13, but it is not limited thereto. For example, the discharge duct 32 may be provided in the seat portion 10, and the intake duct 31 may be provided straddling from the seat portion 10 to the seat back 13. In this case, the second vent 12b of the seat back 13 may directly communicate with the intake duct 31 to suck air from the second vent 12b, or the first vent 12a in the seat portion 10 may directly communicate with the discharge duct 32 to blow air from the first vent 12a.

[0090] Note that the intake duct 31 and the discharge duct 32 may be provided only in the seat portion 10 or only in the seat back 13. For example, when these are provided only in the seat portion 10, the intake port of the intake duct 31 for sucking air is provided on the lower surface, the right side surface, or the left side surface of the seat portion 10, and the first vent 12a of the seat portion 10 directly communicates with the discharge duct 32, so that air may be blown out from the first vent 12a. Further, when these are provided only in the seat back 13, the intake port of the intake duct 31 is provided on the back surface, the right side surface, or the left side surface of the seat back 13, and the second vent 12b of the seat back 13 directly communicates with the discharge duct 32, so that air may be blown out from the second vent 12b.

[0091] [Memory unit 80] The memory unit 80 is a non-volatile memory in which a program is stored and a volatile memory which is a temporary storage area for executing the program. The memory unit 80 is communicably connected to the control unit 60. The memory unit 80 stores information indicating the current consumption of the blower 30 when the blower 30 is driven in the standard mode during non-use of the vehicle 2 when the occupant is not seated on the seat 1 or from non-use to door unlocking. That is, the current consumption of the blower 30 during non-use of the vehicle 2 or from non-use to door unlocking indicated by the information is the initial value.

[0092] In the present embodiment, the memory unit 80 is not built in the control unit 60. Note that the memory unit 80 may be built in the control unit 60.

[0093] [Voltage detection circuit 52] The voltage detection circuit 52 detects the voltage supplied from the power supply unit 70 to the blower 30 via the control unit 60 and is the drive voltage of the blower 30. The voltage detection circuit 52 outputs information indicating the detected drive voltage to the control unit 60 at predetermined time intervals.

[0094] In the present embodiment, the voltage detection circuit 52 is not built in the blower 30. Note that the voltage detection circuit 52 may be built in the blower 30.

[0095] [Control Unit 60] The control unit 60 is electrically connected to the blower 30 and acquires information indicating the consumed current from the current detection circuit 51 of the blower 30. Based on the consumed current detected by the current detection circuit 51 shown in the acquired information, the control unit 60 determines whether or not an occupant is seated on the seat 1. Specifically, the control unit 60 can determine whether or not the consumed current is lower than a first threshold value based on the consumed current. When determining whether or not an occupant is seated on the seat 1, if the consumed current is lower than the first threshold value, the control unit 60 determines that the occupant is seated on the seat 1. When the control unit 60 determines that the occupant is seated on the seat 1, the control unit 60 controls the blower 30 so that the rotational speed of the blower 30 becomes the steady rotational speed. That is, when the control unit 60 determines that the occupant is seated on the seat 1, the control unit 60 controls the blower 30 to drive at the steady rotational speed by executing the standard mode. At the steady rotational speed, the rotational speeds of the propeller and the rotating shaft of the blower 30 are constant.

[0096] On the other hand, when determining whether or not an occupant is seated on the seat 1, if the consumed current is equal to or higher than the first threshold value, the control unit 60 determines that the occupant is not seated on the seat 1. When the control unit 60 determines that the occupant is not seated on the seat 1, the control unit 60 controls the blower 30 so that the rotational speed becomes lower than the rotational speed of the blower 30 when it is determined that the occupant is seated on the seat 1. That is, when the control unit 60 determines that the occupant is not seated on the seat 1, the control unit 60 controls the blower 30 to drive at a low rotational speed by executing the energy-saving mode. When executing the energy-saving mode, the control unit 60 reduces the current supplied to the blower 30 compared to the current supplied when driving the blower 30 at the steady rotational speed.

[0097] In addition, when the control unit 60 determines that the occupant is not seated on the seat 1, it drives the blower 30 for a predetermined period so that the rotational speed is lower than the rotational speed of the blower 30 when it is determined that the occupant is seated on the seat 1. After the predetermined period has elapsed, if the control unit 60 further determines that the occupant is not seated on the seat 1, it may drive the blower 30 so that the rotational speed becomes even lower. The control unit 60 may control the blower 30 step by step in the energy-saving mode.

[0098] In this way, the control unit 60 has a standard mode and an energy-saving mode, which are modes for controlling the blower 30. The control unit 60 appropriately switches between the standard mode and the energy-saving mode based on the consumption current, that is, depending on whether or not the occupant is seated on the seat 1. Further, in the standard mode, since the control unit 60 controls the blower 30 to have a constant rotational speed, it is possible to stabilize the air volume blown when the occupant sits on the seat 1.

[0099] Also, each time the control unit 60 acquires information indicating the consumption current from the current detection circuit 51, it determines whether or not the consumption current exceeds the upper limit value. When the consumption current exceeds the upper limit value, that is, when an overcurrent is assumed, the control unit 60 outputs a warning signal to an external device. By the control unit 60 outputting the warning signal, the passenger can recognize damage to the blower 30 or the like from a current exceeding the rating, clogging of the intake duct and the discharge duct, deterioration of the cushion, and the like. Here, the external device is the vehicle control unit 61, but it may be a terminal device such as a smartphone or a tablet terminal, for example.

[0100] Based on the driving voltage detected by the voltage detection circuit 52, the control unit 60 corrects the power consumption current or the first threshold value of the blower 30. For example, when the power supplied to the blower 30 is to be made constant, the current value may vary due to fluctuations in the voltage value supplied from the power supply unit 70 to the blower 30 (for example, fluctuations based on deterioration of a battery (not shown) in the power supply unit 70 and load fluctuations). If the power consumption current fluctuates, it may become impossible to accurately determine the presence or absence of an occupant sitting on the seat 1. Therefore, the control unit 60 corrects the current value (i.e., the power consumption current) that fluctuates simultaneously with the voltage value so that the power supplied to the blower 30 becomes constant, or corrects the first threshold value so that the power supplied to the blower 30 becomes constant.

[0101] Also, the control unit 60 corrects the power consumption current detected by the current detection circuit 51 as the first threshold value by driving the blower 30 when the vehicle 2 is not in use or when the door is unlocked after not being in use. That is, the control unit 60 drives the blower 30 in the standard mode when the vehicle 2 is in a stopped state and no occupant is sitting on the seat 1, i.e., when the vehicle 2 is not in use or when the door is unlocked after not being in use, and obtains information indicating the power consumption current of the blower 30 (which may be referred to as the power consumption current of the blower 30 when the vehicle 2 is not in use or when the door is unlocked after not being in use) via the current detection circuit 51. The control unit 60 stores, in the storage unit 80, the power consumption current of the blower 30 when the vehicle 2 is not in use or when the door is unlocked after not being in use as the first threshold value. Thereby, the control unit 60 updates the power consumption current of the blower 30 when the vehicle 2 is not in use or when the door is unlocked after not being in use as the first threshold value. Here, when the vehicle 2 is not in use, for example, it is when no occupant is sitting on the seat 1 and the engine switch is OFF.

[0102] Note that the control unit 60 may update the power consumption current of the blower 30 when the vehicle 2 is not in use or when the door is unlocked after not being in use as the first threshold value by driving the blower 30 during an arbitrary period when the vehicle 2 is not in use and storing the average value of the power consumption of the blower 30 during the arbitrary period, when the vehicle 2 is not in use or when the door is unlocked after not being in use, in the storage unit 80.

[0103] [Power supply unit 70] The power supply unit 70 is a power supply circuit that supplies power to the blower 30 via the control unit 60 or the like. Here, the power supply unit 70 is a DC power supply supplied with DC power from a battery (not shown). The power supply unit 70 adjusts the current supplied to the blower 30 or the like by being controlled by the control unit 60.

[0104] [Operation] The operation of the vehicle seat air conditioner 3 in the present embodiment will be exemplified.

[0105] [Operation example 1] FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing an operation example 1 of the vehicle seat air conditioner 3 in Embodiment 1. In this flowchart, it is assumed that the operation starts from the standard mode.

[0106] For example, when the occupant operates the operation panel mounted on the vehicle 2, the vehicle seat air conditioner 3 is driven. The control unit 60 of the vehicle seat air conditioner 3 drives the blower 30 by receiving a driving instruction from the operation panel (S11). As a result, air is sucked in from the first vent 12a, guided in the order of the intake duct 31 and the discharge duct 32, and discharged from the second vent 12b. Thereby, air is blown onto the occupant sitting on the seat 1.

[0107] Next, the control unit 60 acquires information indicating the consumed current from the current detection circuit 51 (S12).

[0108] Next, the control unit 60 determines whether or not the occupant is sitting on the seat 1 based on the consumed current indicated by the acquired information (S13). Specifically, the control unit 60 determines whether or not the consumed current is lower than the first threshold value based on the consumed current.

[0109] When determining whether or not the occupant is sitting on the seat 1, if the consumed current is lower than the first threshold value, the control unit 60 determines that the occupant is sitting on the seat 1 (YES in S13).

[0110] Next, the control unit 60 controls the blower 30 in the standard mode for a predetermined period (S14). Thereby, air is blown onto the occupant sitting on the seat 1 for a predetermined period. Then, the control unit 60 returns the process to step S12.

[0111] On the other hand, when determining whether or not an occupant is sitting on the seat 1, if the consumption current is equal to or greater than the first threshold value, the control unit 60 determines that the occupant is not sitting on the seat 1 (NO in S13).

[0112] Next, when it is determined that the occupant is sitting on the seat 1, the control unit 60 controls the blower 30 so that the rotational speed becomes lower than the rotational speed of the blower 30 when the occupant is sitting on the seat 1 (S15). In order to reduce the consumption current of the vehicle seat air conditioner 3, the control unit 60 switches from the standard mode to the energy-saving mode and executes the energy-saving mode.

[0113] Next, the control unit 60 acquires information indicating the consumption current from the current detection circuit 51 (S16).

[0114] Next, the control unit 60 determines whether or not the occupant is sitting on the seat 1 based on the consumption current indicated by the acquired information (S17). Specifically, the control unit 60 determines whether or not the consumption current is lower than the first threshold value based on the consumption current.

[0115] When determining whether or not an occupant is sitting on the seat 1, if the consumption current is lower than the first threshold value, the control unit 60 determines that the occupant is sitting on the seat 1 (YES in S17). Then, the control unit 60 returns the process to step S11, switches from the energy-saving mode to the standard mode, and executes the standard mode.

[0116] On the other hand, when determining whether or not an occupant is sitting on the seat 1, if the consumption current is equal to or greater than the first threshold value, the control unit 60 determines that the occupant is not sitting on the seat 1 (NO in S17). Then, the control unit 60 returns the process to step S16.

[0117] Note that by operating the operation panel mounted on the vehicle 2 by the occupant, the driving of the vehicle seat air conditioner 3 can be freely stopped at any step.

[0118] Note that when starting from the energy-saving mode, it may be a flowchart starting from step S15. Therefore, it is not limited to the flowchart of FIG. 4.

[0119] Also, in this operation example, the case where the operation starts from the standard mode with the occupant not seated on the seat 1 will be specifically described with reference to FIGS. 4 and 5. FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating the relationship between the current consumption of the blower 30 and the seating area in the standard mode and the energy-saving mode. The seating area assumes the case where a person with a standard body type is seated.

[0120] As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, first, it starts from point A. At this time, the control unit 60 determines (S12) whether the occupant is seated on the seat 1 based on the current consumption indicated by the information of the acquired current detection circuit 51 (S13).

[0121] Next, since the occupant is not seated on the seat 1, the control unit 60 determines that the current consumption is equal to or higher than the first threshold value and the occupant is not seated on the seat 1 (NO in S13). At this time, in FIG. 5, it moves from point A to point B. The control unit 60 switches from the standard mode to the energy-saving mode, executes the energy-saving mode, and controls the blower 30 so that the rotation speed is lower than the rotation speed of the blower 30 when it is determined that the occupant is seated on the seat 1 (S15).

[0122] Next, the control unit 60 determines (S17) whether the occupant is seated on the seat 1 based on the current consumption indicated by the information acquired at predetermined time intervals (S16). When the occupant is seated on the seat 1, the control unit 60 determines that the current consumption is lower than the first threshold value and the occupant is seated on the seat 1 (YES in S17). At this time, in FIG. 5, it moves from point B to point C.

[0123] Next, the control unit 60 switches from the energy-saving mode to the standard mode and executes the standard mode. At this time, in FIG. 5, it moves from point C to point D. The control unit 60 drives the blower 30 in the standard mode (S11).

[0124] Next, based on the acquired current consumption (S12), the control unit 60 determines whether or not the occupant is seated on the seat 1 (S13). If the occupant gets off the vehicle or becomes separated from the seat 1 due to a change in posture or the like, the control unit 60 determines that the current consumption has become equal to or greater than the first threshold value and the occupant is not seated on the seat 1 (NO in S13). Then, in FIG. 5, it returns from point D to point A. The vehicle seat air conditioner 3 may circulate in this way.

[0125] Also, in this operation example, it is also conceivable that the operation starts from the standard mode with the occupant seated on the seat 1. In this case, in FIG. 5, it starts from point D. Then, depending on the occupant getting off and getting back on the vehicle, etc., it moves to points A, B, and C as described above and returns to point D. Since the explanation using FIG. 4 is the same, the explanation is omitted. Note that since it may also start from the energy-saving mode, it is not limited to starting from the standard mode.

[0126] Also, in FIG. 5, there may be a case of proceeding from point A to point D.

[0127] For example, when it is in the standard mode with the occupant not seated on the seat 1, it is at point A in FIG. 5. At this time, when the occupant is seated on the seat 1, the control unit 60 determines that the current consumption has become lower than the first threshold value and the occupant is seated on the seat 1 (YES in S13). In FIG. 5, it moves from point A to point D. At this time, the control unit 60 continues to execute the standard mode for a predetermined period (S14).

[0128] Also, in FIG. 5, there may be a case of proceeding from point C to point B.

[0129] For example, when the vehicle is in the energy-saving mode with an occupant seated on seat 1, it is at point C in Fig. 5. At this time, based on the current consumption indicated in the information acquired at predetermined time intervals (S16), the control unit 60 determines whether an occupant is seated on seat 1 (S17). When the occupant is not seated on seat 1 due to a slumped posture or the like, the control unit 60 determines that the current consumption has reached or exceeded the first threshold value and that the occupant is not seated on seat 1 (NO in S17). At this time, in Fig. 5, it moves from point C to point B. At this time, the control unit 60 continues to execute the energy-saving mode until the occupant is seated on seat 1.

[0130] [Operation Example 2] Fig. 6 is a flowchart showing operation example 2 of the vehicle seat air conditioner 3 in Embodiment 1.

[0131] The control unit 60 determines whether the vehicle 2 is not in use (S21). For example, the control unit 60 determines whether the engine switch is OFF to determine whether the vehicle 2 is not in use. If the engine switch is OFF, it can be said that the vehicle 2 is not in use. In this case, it is mainly considered that the occupant is not seated on seat 1.

[0132] If the vehicle 2 is not not in use (NO in S21), the control unit 60 returns the process to step S21.

[0133] On the other hand, when the vehicle 2 is not in use (YES in S21), the control unit 60 drives the blower 30 in the standard mode to acquire information indicating the current consumption of the blower 30 when the vehicle 2 is not in use or when the door is unlocked from the non-use state from the current detection circuit 51 (S22).

[0134] Next, the control unit 60 stores, in the storage unit 80, the current consumption of the blower 30 when the vehicle 2 is not in use or when the door is unlocked after not being in use, indicated by the information, as the first threshold value, thereby updating the current consumption of the blower 30 when the vehicle 2 is not in use or when the door is unlocked after not being in use, as the first threshold value (S23). That is, the control unit 60 updates the initial value stored in advance in the storage unit 80. Then, the control unit 60 ends the flowchart of FIG. 6.

[0135] Note that even when the engine switch is OFF, the occupant may be seated on the seat 1. Therefore, the control unit 60 may notify, via a display device or the like mounted on the vehicle 2, that the vehicle seat air conditioner 3 is being driven.

[0136] [Operation Example 3] FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing Operation Example 3 of the vehicle seat air conditioner 3 in Embodiment 1.

[0137] The control unit 60 acquires information indicating the current consumption from the current detection circuit 51, and determines whether or not the acquired current consumption exceeds the upper limit value (S31). The upper limit value is determined in advance as the upper limit value of the current consumption during normal operation.

[0138] When the control unit 60 determines that the current consumption exceeds the upper limit value (YES in S31), that is, when an overcurrent is flowing through the blower 30, the control unit 60 outputs a warning signal to an external device (S32).

[0139] On the other hand, when the control unit 60 determines that the current consumption does not exceed the upper limit value (NO in S31), the control unit 60 ends the flowchart of FIG. 7.

[0140] Note that in the present embodiment, Operation Examples 1 to 3 are illustrated. However, the vehicle seat air conditioner 3 does not necessarily include all of Operation Examples 1 to 3, and Operation Examples 1 to 3 can be combined as appropriate. Also, in Operation Example 1, not all steps are essential processes in the vehicle seat air conditioner 3, and the vehicle seat air conditioner 3 is not limited to executing all steps.

[0141] [Operation Example 4] In this operation example, the operation when determining whether the door of the vehicle 2 has been unlocked since it was not in use will be described.

[0142] FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing Operation Example 4 of the vehicle seat air conditioner 3 in Embodiment 2. In this operation example, for the same processes as those in FIG. 6, the same reference numerals are given and the description of the processes will be omitted as appropriate.

[0143] The control unit 60 determines whether the door of the vehicle 2 has been unlocked since it was not in use (S21a). For example, the control unit 60 determines whether the vehicle 2 is not in use by determining whether the engine switch is OFF. Further, the control unit 60 determines whether the door has been unlocked by acquiring or not acquiring an opening / closing signal, which is a signal indicating that the door has been unlocked, from a door opening / closing sensor mounted on the vehicle 2. Note that the determination of door unlocking may be made by determining whether a door unlocking operation has been performed based on the key of the vehicle 2.

[0144] When the vehicle 2 has not been unlocked since it was not in use (NO in S21a), the control unit 60 returns the process to step S21a.

[0145] Next, when the vehicle 2 has been unlocked since it was not in use (YES in S21a), the control unit 60 drives the blower 30 in the standard mode to acquire information indicating the current consumption of the blower 30 when the vehicle 2 is not in use or when the door is unlocked since it was not in use from the current detection circuit 51 (S22).

[0146] Next, the control unit 60 stores, in the storage unit 80, the current consumption of the blower 30 when the vehicle 2 is not in use or when the door is unlocked since it was not in use, indicated by the information, as a first threshold value, thereby updating the current consumption of the blower 30 when the vehicle 2 is not in use or when the door is unlocked since it was not in use as the first threshold value (S23). Then, the control unit 60 ends the flowchart of FIG. 8. After that, the vehicle seat air conditioner 3 shifts to the operation of the flowchart of FIG. 4.

[0147] [Operational Effects] Next, the operation and effects of the vehicle seat air conditioner 3 in the present embodiment will be described.

[0148] As described above, the vehicle seat air conditioner 3 of the present embodiment includes a blower 30 built into the seat 1, an intake duct that takes in air guided by the blower 30 from the surface of the seat 1, and at least one of a discharge duct that discharges air guided by the blower 30 from the surface of the seat 1, and a control unit 60 electrically connected to the blower 30. The blower 30 has a current detection circuit 51 that detects the current consumption of the blower 30. The control unit 60 determines the presence or absence of an occupant sitting on the seat 1 based on the current consumption detected by the current detection circuit 51.

[0149] According to this, the control unit 60 can determine the presence or absence of an occupant sitting by controlling the blower 30 according to the magnitude of the current consumption detected by the current detection circuit 51. For example, if the current consumption detected by the current detection circuit 51 becomes smaller than the current consumption when the occupant is not sitting on the seat 1, the control unit 60 can determine that the occupant is sitting on the seat 1.

[0150] Therefore, this vehicle seat air conditioner 3 can detect the seating of an occupant with a simple configuration.

[0151] In particular, unlike the conventional vehicle seat air conditioner 3, it is possible to detect the seating of an occupant without separately providing a sensor, so it is possible to suppress an increase in the product cost of the vehicle seat air conditioner 3.

[0152] Also, in the vehicle seat air conditioner 3 of the present embodiment, when the control unit 60 determines the presence or absence of an occupant sitting on the seat 1, if the current consumption is lower than the first threshold value, it determines that the occupant is sitting on the seat 1.

[0153] According to this, when the consumption current is lower than the first threshold value, that is, when the consumption current is smaller than the consumption current when the occupant is not seated on seat 1, the control unit 60 can determine that the occupant is seated on seat 1. By accurately determining the presence or absence of the occupant's seating, the control unit 60 can control the blower 30, so that the power consumption of the blower 30 when there is no occupant can be suppressed.

[0154] Also, in the vehicle seat air conditioner 3 of the present embodiment, when the control unit 60 determines that the occupant is seated on seat 1, the control unit 60 controls the blower 30 so that the rotation speed of the blower 30 becomes the steady rotation speed.

[0155] According to this, when the occupant is seated on seat 1, since the control unit 60 can make the power supplied to the blower 30 constant and stabilize the rotation speed of the blower 30 at the steady rotation speed, the comfort of the occupant can be more ensured by making the air volume blown to the occupant more appropriate.

[0156] Also, in the vehicle seat air conditioner 3 of the present embodiment, when the control unit 60 determines the presence or absence of the occupant's seating on seat 1, if the consumption current is equal to or higher than the first threshold value, the control unit 60 determines that the occupant is not seated on seat 1. When the control unit 60 determines that the occupant is not seated on seat 1, the control unit 60 controls the blower 30 so that the rotation speed becomes lower than the rotation speed of the blower 30 when it is determined that the occupant is seated on seat 1.

[0157] According to this, when the occupant is not seated on seat 1, since the control unit 60 can control the blower 30 while reducing the power supplied to the blower 30, the power consumption can be energy-saving.

[0158] Also, in the vehicle seat air conditioner 3 of the present embodiment, the control unit 60 updates the consumption current detected by the current detection circuit 51 as the first threshold value by driving the blower 30 when the vehicle 2 is not in use or when the door is unlocked after being not in use.

[0159] According to this, even if the sheet 1 and the blower 30 deteriorate over time, by updating the consumption current as the first threshold value, it is possible to ensure the accuracy of determining whether or not the occupant is seated on the sheet 1.

[0160] Further, in the vehicle seat air conditioner 3 of the present embodiment, a voltage detection circuit 52 for detecting the drive voltage of the blower 30 is further provided, and the control unit 60 corrects the consumption current of the blower 30 based on the drive voltage detected by the voltage detection circuit 52.

[0161] According to this, by measuring in advance the consumption current of the blower 30 due to fluctuations in the applied voltage, the consumption current can be corrected. Thereby, even if there are fluctuations in the applied voltage due to deterioration of the battery or the like, it is possible to more accurately determine the presence or absence of the occupant sitting on the sheet 1.

[0162] Further, in the vehicle seat air conditioner 3 of the present embodiment, a voltage detection circuit 52 for detecting the drive voltage of the blower 30 is further provided, and the control unit 60 corrects the first threshold value based on the drive voltage detected by the voltage detection circuit 52.

[0163] According to this, by measuring in advance the consumption current of the blower 30 due to fluctuations in the applied voltage, the first threshold value can also be corrected. Thereby, even if there are fluctuations in the applied voltage due to deterioration of the battery or the like, it is possible to more accurately determine the presence or absence of the occupant sitting on the sheet 1.

[0164] Further, in the vehicle seat air conditioner 3 of the present embodiment, the current detection circuit 51 is also used as an overcurrent detection circuit for the blower 30.

[0165] According to this, even if an overcurrent detection circuit for the blower 30 is not separately provided, the current detection circuit 51 can detect an overcurrent of the blower 30. Alternatively, the current detection circuit 51 can be formed using an overcurrent detection circuit originally provided in the blower 30. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the complication of the configuration of the vehicle seat air conditioner 3 and to suppress the increase in the product cost.

[0166] Also, in the vehicle seat air conditioner 3 of the present embodiment, when the consumption current exceeds the upper limit value, the control unit 60 outputs a warning signal to an external device.

[0167] In this way, when the consumption current exceeds a predetermined upper limit value, the blower 30 may be malfunctioning or may be controlled at a higher rotation speed than normal. For this reason, since a malfunction of the blower 30, clogging of the intake duct 31 and the discharge duct 32, and deterioration of the cushion are predicted, it is possible to notify the passenger of replacement, cleaning, or cushion replacement of the blower 30. As a result, the passenger can appropriately maintain the state of the seat 1.

[0168] Note that as the upper limit value, a first upper limit value and a second upper limit value larger than the first upper limit value may be set. In this case, if the consumption current exceeds the first upper limit value and is equal to or less than the second upper limit value, clogging of the intake duct 31 and the discharge duct 32 and deterioration of the cushion are predicted. Further, if the consumption current exceeds the second upper limit value, a malfunction of the blower 30 is predicted. By providing two upper limit values in this way, it is possible to separately notify the passenger of a warning such as cleaning or cushion replacement and a warning of replacement of the blower 30.

[0169] Also, in the vehicle seat air conditioner 3 of the present embodiment, the intake duct 31 is formed at the central portion 11c1 and the outer edge portion 11c2 of the seat surface 11c, which is the surface on the side where a person sits on the seat 1.

[0170] According to this, between the buttocks and thighs and the seat surface 11c, by sucking air from the air intake port 31a of the intake duct 31 formed in the central portion 11c1 of the seat surface 11c, it is possible to suppress the stuffiness of a person's buttocks and thighs. Further, since the air intake port 31a of the intake duct 31 formed in the outer edge portion 11c2 of the seat surface 11c is formed at a position where it is difficult to be covered by a person's buttocks and thighs, it is possible to suck the air around the seat. For example, even if it is not possible to suck air from the air intake port 31a of the intake duct 31 formed in the central portion 11c1 of the seat surface 11c, since it is possible to suck air from the air intake port 31a of the intake duct 31 formed in the outer edge portion 11c2 of the seat surface 11c, it is possible to discharge air from the discharge port 32a.

[0171] Further, in the vehicle seat air conditioner 3 of the present embodiment, the outer edge portion 11c2 is at least one of the inner portion 11d and the front end portion 11e of the seat surface 11c.

[0172] According to this, even at the outer edge portion 11c2 of the seat surface 11c, particularly the inner portion 11d and the front end portion 11e of the seat surface 11c are more difficult to be covered by a person's buttocks and thighs. Therefore, the probability of being able to suck air from the air intake port 31a is further increased.

[0173] (Embodiment 2) In the present embodiment, it is different from the vehicle seat air conditioner 3 of Embodiment 1 in that the consumption current of the blower 30 is used to determine the physique of the occupant or to determine the body position of the occupant. Other configurations in the present embodiment are the same as those in Embodiment 1 unless otherwise specified, and the same reference numerals are given to the same configurations and functions, and detailed descriptions thereof are omitted.

[0174] Hereinafter, the differences between the vehicle seat air conditioner 3 of the present embodiment and the vehicle seat air conditioner 3 of Embodiment 1 will be described with reference to FIGS. 2 and 3.

[0175] [Storage unit 80] The memory unit 80 also stores information indicating the second threshold value, information indicating the correlation between the current consumption and the rotational speed described later, and the like. The second threshold value is obtained from the current consumption of the blower when an occupant of normal build sits on the seat 1. Normal build means the standard build of the occupant.

[0176] [Control unit 60] The control unit 60 is electrically connected to the blower 30 and acquires information indicating the current consumption from the current detection circuit 51 of the blower 30. The control unit 60 uses the current consumption indicated by the acquired information to control the rotational speed of the blower 30, determine the build of the occupant, determine the posture of the occupant, and determine whether the current consumption exceeds the upper limit value.

[0177] The control unit 60 controls the rotational speed of the blower 30 based on the current consumption indicated by the acquired information. Specifically, the control unit 60 acquires the information indicating the second threshold value stored in advance in the memory unit 80, and calculates a value obtained by subtracting the current current consumption detected by the current detection circuit 51 from the second threshold value indicated by the acquired information. The control unit 60 can determine whether the current consumption is lower or higher than the second threshold value based on the calculated value.

[0178] The control unit 60 controls the blower 30 so that the rotational speed increases as the current consumption is lower than the second threshold value. As a result, the current supplied to the blower 30 increases compared to the case where an occupant of normal build sits on the seat 1. Thereby, the current consumption of the blower 30 increases and the air volume also increases. Since there is a lower limit value lower than the second threshold value, the control unit 60 controls the blower 30 between the lower limit value and the second threshold value.

[0179] Further, the control unit 60 controls the blower 30 so that the rotational speed decreases as the current consumption is equal to or higher than the second threshold value. As a result, the current supplied to the blower 30 decreases compared to the case where an occupant of normal build sits on the seat 1. Thereby, the current consumption of the blower 30 decreases and the air volume also decreases. Since there is a seating determination value higher than the second threshold value, the control unit 60 controls the blower 30 between the seating determination value and the second threshold value.

[0180] In this way, by controlling the rotation speed of the blower 30, the control unit 60 makes the air volume discharged from the surface of the seat 1 (the air volume blown onto the occupant) the same regardless of the state of the occupant sitting on the seat 1. Here, "regardless of the state of the occupant" means regardless of the size of the occupant's build and the occupant's posture. Therefore, whether the occupant is large or small in build, or even if the occupant's posture is disrupted, it will be equivalent to the air volume blown when an occupant of normal build is sitting.

[0181] Note that here, the configuration is such that the air volume is made the same regardless of the state of the occupant, but it is not limited to this. A configuration in which the air volume changes according to the build of the occupant, that is, for example, a configuration in which the larger the build, the larger the air volume, may also be used.

[0182] Also, the control unit 60 determines the build of the occupant sitting on the seat 1 based on the consumption current, and outputs a signal (sometimes referred to as a build signal) indicating the build of the occupant, which is the result of the determination, to an external device. Here, the external device is the vehicle control unit 61, but it may also be a terminal device such as a smartphone or a tablet terminal, for example.

[0183] As described above, the lower the consumption current of the blower 30 is than the second threshold value, the "larger" the build of the occupant. Also, as described above, the closer the consumption current of the blower 30 is to or higher than the second threshold value, the "smaller" the build of the occupant. Therefore, if the consumption current detected by the current detection circuit 51 is smaller than the second threshold value, the control unit 60 determines that the build of the occupant is "large". Also, if the consumption current detected by the current detection circuit 51 is equal to the second threshold value, the control unit 60 determines that the build of the occupant is "normal". Also, if the consumption current detected by the current detection circuit 51 is larger than the second threshold value, the control unit 60 determines that the build of the occupant is "small". The control unit 60 outputs a build signal to the external device that can determine whether the build of the occupant is "small", "normal", or "large". Note that the build signal is not limited to the above three-stage signal, and it may be output as a numerical value indicating the degree of build based on the consumption current, for example.

[0184] Further, based on the change in the consumption current, the control unit 60 determines whether or not the posture of the occupant seated on the seat 1 has changed, and outputs a signal (sometimes referred to as a posture change signal) indicating that there is a change in the posture of the occupant, which is the result of the determination, to an external device. Specifically, the control unit 60 calculates the change in the consumption current detected by the current detection circuit 51 after the occupant has seated on the seat 1, and if the amount of change in the consumption current is equal to or greater than a specified value, determines that there is a change in the posture of the occupant seated on the seat 1. The control unit 60 outputs the posture change signal, which is the result of the determination, to an external device. Note that the control unit 60 may output a signal indicating that there is no change in the posture of the occupant to the external device when there is no change in the posture of the occupant.

[0185] Here, the case where the posture of the occupant has changed means, for example, when the occupant is not seated on the seat 1 (the buttocks and thighs are separated from the seat surface 11c), when the occupant is seated on the seat 1 with their legs crossed, when the occupant is seated on the seat 1 in a kneeling position, etc., that is, when the occupant is not seated on the seat 1 in the correct posture, or when the occupant has re-seated deeper than the initial seating posture.

[0186] Also, the case where there is no change in the posture of the occupant includes not only the case where there is no change in the posture of the occupant at all, but also the case where there is a change in the posture of the occupant within a permitted range of change.

[0187] Further, each time the control unit 60 acquires information indicating the consumption current from the current detection circuit 51, it determines whether or not the consumption current has exceeded the upper limit value. When the consumption current exceeds the upper limit value, that is, when an overcurrent is assumed, the control unit 60 outputs a warning signal to an external device. By the control unit 60 outputting the warning signal, the passenger can recognize damage to the blower 30 from a current exceeding the rating, clogging of the intake duct 31 and the discharge duct 32, and deterioration of the cushion, etc. Here, the upper limit value is higher than the second threshold value and larger than the seating determination value described later.

[0188] Further, the control unit 60 corrects the consumption current of the blower 30 or the second threshold value, or corrects the information indicating the correlation between the consumption current and the rotational speed.

[0189] Based on the drive voltage detected by the voltage detection circuit 52, the control unit 60 corrects the current consumption of the blower 30 or the second threshold value. For example, when the power supplied to the blower 30 is to be kept constant, the current value may vary due to fluctuations in the voltage value supplied from the power supply unit 70 to the blower 30 (e.g., fluctuations based on deterioration of a battery (not shown) of the power supply unit 70 and load fluctuations). If the current consumption varies, it may become impossible to accurately determine the physique of the occupant sitting on the seat 1. Therefore, the control unit 60 corrects the current value (i.e., the current consumption) that varies simultaneously with the voltage value so that the power supplied to the blower 30 is constant, or corrects the second threshold value so that the power supplied to the blower 30 is constant.

[0190] Also, the control unit 60 drives the blower 30 when the vehicle 2 is not in use or when unlocking the door after not being in use, to obtain information indicating the current consumption detected by the current detection circuit 51. The control unit 60 corrects information indicating the correlation between the current consumption and the rotation speed for controlling the rotation speed based on the current consumption indicated by the acquired information. Specifically, the control unit 60 calculates the rotation speed of the blower 30 when no occupant is sitting on the seat 1 based on the current consumption of the blower 30 when the vehicle 2 is not in use, which is a case where the vehicle 2 is in a stopped state and no occupant is sitting on the seat 1. The control unit 60 compares the current consumption and rotation speed of the blower 30 when the vehicle 2 is not in use with the correlation (correlation table) between the power consumption and the rotation speed stored in advance in the storage unit 80. If there is a difference as a result of the comparison, the control unit 60 stores in the storage unit 80 the updated correlation between the power consumption of the blower 30 and the calculated rotation speed when the vehicle 2 is not in use.

[0191] Note that the control unit 60 may drive the blower 30 during an arbitrary period when the vehicle 2 is not in use, calculate the average value of the power consumption of the blower 30 when the vehicle 2 is not in use during the arbitrary period, calculate the rotation speed of the blower 30 based on the calculated power consumption, and store in the storage unit 80 the updated correlation between the current consumption and the rotation speed of the blower 30 when the vehicle 2 is not in use.

[0192] <Operation> The operation of the vehicle seat air conditioner 3 in the present embodiment will be exemplified.

[0193] [Operation Example 1] FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing Operation Example 1 of the vehicle seat air conditioner 3 in Embodiment 2.

[0194] For example, when the occupant operates the operation panel mounted on the vehicle 2, the vehicle seat air conditioner 3 is driven. The control unit 60 of the vehicle seat air conditioner 3 drives the blower 30 by receiving a drive instruction from the operation panel (S41). Thereby, air is sucked from the first vent 12a, guided in the order of the intake duct 31 and the discharge duct 32, and discharged from the second vent 12b. Thereby, air is blown onto the occupant sitting on the seat 1.

[0195] Next, the control unit 60 acquires information indicating the consumed current from the current detection circuit 51, reads out information indicating the second threshold value stored in the storage unit 80, and calculates a value obtained by subtracting the above-described second threshold value from the current consumed current indicated by the information. The control unit 60 reads out the correlation graph stored in the storage unit 80, and controls the blower 30 by changing the rotation speed of the blower 30 to be equal to the air volume blown to an occupant of normal build based on the calculated value (S42). FIG. 10a is a diagram exemplifying the relationship between the build and the consumed current of the blower 30, and FIG. 10b is a diagram exemplifying the relationship between the rotation speed of the blower 30 and the build.

[0196] Specifically, based on the correlation graph shown in FIG. 10a, the control unit 60 determines whether the calculated value indicates that the occupant's build is smaller or larger than an average build. Based on the result of determining the occupant's build, the control unit 60 derives the rotational speed of the blower 30 based on the correlation graph shown in FIG. 10b. For example, if the result of determining the occupant's build is that the build is smaller, the control unit 60 decreases the rotational speed of the blower 30, and if the result of determining the occupant's build is that the build is larger, the control unit 60 increases the rotational speed of the blower 30. In this way, the control unit 60 determines the rotational speed of the blower 30 derived from the correlation graph in FIG. 10, changes it to the determined rotational speed, and controls the blower 30.

[0197] More specifically, as described above, the current consumption of the blower 30 when the occupant's build is "large" is smaller than the current consumption (normal current consumption) of the blower 30 when the occupant's build is "normal". That is, the lower the current consumption of the blower 30 is than the second threshold value, the larger the seating area can be determined to be, and thus the occupant's build is "large". Therefore, if the current consumption detected by the current detection circuit 51 is smaller than the second threshold value, the control unit 60 determines that the occupant's build is "large". The control unit 60 controls the blower 30 so that the rotational speed becomes higher than the rotational speed when the normal current consumption is supplied to the blower 30 by increasing the current supplied to the blower 30 compared to the normal current consumption. In this way, the control unit 60 controls the rotational speed of the blower 30 so that the amount of air discharged from the surface of the seat 1 (the amount of air blown onto the occupant) for an occupant with a "large" build is the same as the amount of air discharged from the surface of the seat 1 for an occupant with an average build.

[0198] Also, if the current consumption detected by the current detection circuit 51 is substantially the same as the second threshold value, the control unit 60 determines that the occupant's build is "normal". The control unit 60 controls the blower 30 by supplying the normal current consumption to the blower 30.

[0199] As described above, the smaller the seating area can be determined to be, the more the current consumption of the blower 30 is equal to or higher than the normal current consumption of the blower 30. Thus, it can be determined that the build of the occupant is "petite". For this reason, if the current consumption detected by the current detection circuit 51 is greater than the second threshold value, the control unit 60 determines that the build of the occupant is "petite". Here, when the current consumption of the blower 30 is greater than the second threshold value and exceeds the seating determination value that is also greater than the second threshold value, the control unit 60 may determine that there is no seating. The control unit 60 controls the blower 30 so that the number of rotations is less than that when the normal current consumption is supplied to the blower 30 by reducing the current supplied to the blower 30 from the normal current consumption. In this way, the control unit 60 controls the number of rotations of the blower 30 so that the amount of air discharged from the surface of the seat 1 for an occupant with a "petite" build is the same as the amount of air discharged from the surface of the seat 1 for an occupant with a normal build.

[0200] Next, the control unit 60 controls the blower 30 for a predetermined period at the number of rotations changed in step S42 (S43).

[0201] Then, the control unit 60 returns the process to step S42.

[0202] Note that by an occupant operating the operation panel mounted on the vehicle 2, the driving of the vehicle seat air conditioner 3 can be freely stopped at any step.

[0203] [Operation Example 2] FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing an operation example 2 of the vehicle seat air conditioner 3 in the second embodiment. In operation example 2, for operations similar to those in operation example 1 of FIG. 9, the same reference numerals are given and the description is appropriately omitted.

[0204] The control unit 60 of the vehicle seat air conditioner 3 drives the blower 30 in response to an operation instruction received by the operation panel (S41).

[0205] Next, the control unit 60 acquires information indicating the consumed current from the current detection circuit 51, and determines whether the occupant is seated or not based on the consumed current indicated by the acquired information (S52). Specifically, the control unit 60 determines whether the consumed current is less than the seating determination value.

[0206] When the control unit 60 determines that the consumed current is less than the seating determination value, that is, when it is determined that the occupant is seated on the seat 1 (YES in S52), the control unit 60 calculates a value obtained by subtracting the second threshold value from the current consumed current, and based on the calculated value, changes the rotational speed of the blower 30 to be equivalent to the air volume blown to an occupant of normal build, and controls the blower 30 (S42).

[0207] Then, the control unit 60 returns to step S52 via step S43.

[0208] On the other hand, when the control unit 60 determines that the consumed current is greater than or equal to the seating determination value, that is, when it is determined that the occupant is not seated on the seat 1 (NO in S52), the control unit 60 controls the blower 30 so as to decrease the rotational speed of the blower 30 (S53). As a result, the vehicle seat air conditioner 3 enters an energy-saving mode because the control unit 60 reduces the consumed current of the blower 30.

[0209] After step S53, the control unit 60 acquires information indicating the consumed current from the current detection circuit 51, and determines again whether the occupant is seated or not from the consumed current indicated by the information (S54).

[0210] When the control unit 60 determines that the consumed current is greater than or equal to the seating determination value, that is, when it is determined that the occupant is not seated on the seat 1 (NO in S54), the control unit 60 controls the blower 30 so as to maintain the energy-saving mode.

[0211] On the other hand, when the control unit 60 determines that the consumption current is smaller than the seating determination value, that is, when it is determined that the occupant is seated on the seat 1 (YES in S54), the control unit 60 controls the blower 30 to increase the rotation speed from the state where the rotation speed has decreased (S55). Thereby, the vehicle seat air conditioner 3 enters the normal mode in which the blower 30 is controlled so that the rotation speed of the blower 30 is the same as when an occupant of normal build is seated on the seat 1. Then, the control unit 60 proceeds to step S42.

[0212] Note that by operating the operation panel mounted on the vehicle 2, the occupant can freely stop the drive of the vehicle seat air conditioner 3 at any step.

[0213] [Operation Example 3] FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing an operation example 3 of the vehicle seat air conditioner 3 in the second embodiment.

[0214] The control unit 60 acquires information indicating the consumption current from the current detection circuit 51 at predetermined time intervals and calculates the change in the acquired consumption current (S61).

[0215] Next, the control unit 60 determines whether or not the posture of the occupant seated on the seat 1 has changed based on the calculated change in the consumption current (S62). Specifically, the control unit 60 calculates the change in the consumption current detected by the current detection circuit 51 after the occupant has seated on the seat 1. For example, the control unit 60 calculates the change amount between the consumption current acquired at the first time point and the consumption current acquired at the second time point, which is a time point after the first time point. The change amount is the difference or the ratio of change between the consumption current at the first time point and the consumption current at the second time point. The control unit 60 determines whether or not the posture of the occupant seated on the seat 1 has changed by determining whether or not the calculated change amount of the consumption current is equal to or greater than a specified value.

[0216] When the change amount of the posture of the occupant seated on the seat 1 is equal to or greater than the specified value, the control unit 60 determines that the posture of the occupant seated on the seat 1 has changed (YES in S62).

[0217] Next, the control unit 60 outputs a posture change signal, which is a signal indicating that there is a change in the posture of the occupant, to an external device (S63). Then, the control unit 60 ends the flowchart of FIG. 12.

[0218] Also, returning to the description of step S62. On the other hand, when the amount of change in the posture of the occupant sitting on the seat 1 is less than the specified value, the control unit 60 determines that the posture of the occupant sitting on the seat 1 has not changed (NO in S62). Then, the control unit 60 ends the flowchart of FIG. 12.

[0219] Note that the control unit 60 may output a signal indicating that there is no change in the posture of the occupant to an external device.

[0220] [Operation Example 4] FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing an operation example 4 of the vehicle seat air conditioner 3 in the second embodiment.

[0221] The control unit 60 determines whether the vehicle 2 is not in use (S71). For example, the control unit 60 determines whether the vehicle 2 is not in use by determining whether the engine switch is OFF. If the engine switch is OFF, it can be said that the vehicle 2 is not in use. In this case, it is mainly considered that the occupant is not sitting on the seat 1.

[0222] When the vehicle 2 is not not in use (NO in S71), the control unit 60 returns the process to step S71.

[0223] Next, when the vehicle 2 is not in use (YES in S71), the control unit 60 drives the blower 30 in the standard mode to obtain information indicating the power consumption of the blower 30 when the vehicle 2 is not in use or from when it is not in use to when the door is unlocked from the current detection circuit 51 (S72).

[0224] When the vehicle 2 is in a stopped state and the occupant is not seated on the seat 1, or when the door is unlocked starting from the non-use state of the vehicle 2, the control unit 60 calculates the rotational speed of the blower 30 when the occupant is not seated on the seat 1 based on the current consumption of the blower 30 (the information indicating the acquired current consumption). The control unit 60 updates the correlation between the current consumption and the rotational speed, which is stored in advance in the storage unit 80, with the current consumption and the rotational speed of the blower 30 when the vehicle 2 is in a non-use state or when the door is unlocked starting from the non-use state, and stores the correlation in the storage unit 80. Thereby, the control unit 60 corrects the information indicating the correlation between the current consumption and the rotational speed for controlling the rotational speed based on the current consumption shown in the acquired information. For example, when there is a blockage in the intake duct 31 and the discharge duct 32, etc., correction is made by shifting the graph of a in FIG. 10 or the second threshold value to the left, or correction is made by shifting the graph of b in FIG. 10 upward.

[0225] Next, the control unit 60 updates the current consumption of the blower 30 when the vehicle 2 is in a non-use state or when the door is unlocked starting from the non-use state, which is shown in the information, as the second threshold value by storing it in the storage unit 80 (S73). That is, the control unit 60 updates the initial value stored in advance in the storage unit 80. Then, the control unit 60 ends the flowchart of FIG. 13.

[0226] Note that even when the engine switch is OFF, the occupant may be seated on the seat 1. For this reason, the control unit 60 may notify that the vehicle seat air conditioner 3 is being driven via a display device or the like mounted on the vehicle 2.

[0227] [Operation Example 5] In this operation example, the operation when determining whether the door of the vehicle 2 has been unlocked starting from the non-use state will be described.

[0228] FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing Operation Example 5 of the vehicle seat air conditioner 3 in Embodiment 2. In this operation example, for the same processes as those in FIG. 13, the same reference numerals are given and the description of the processes is appropriately omitted.

[0229] The control unit 60 determines whether the door of the vehicle 2 has been unlocked since it was not in use (S71a). For example, the control unit 60 determines whether the engine switch is OFF to determine whether the vehicle 2 is not in use. Further, the control unit 60 determines whether the door has been unlocked by acquiring or not acquiring an opening / closing signal, which is a signal indicating that the door has been unlocked, from a door opening / closing sensor mounted on the vehicle 2. Note that the determination of door unlocking may also be made by determining whether a door unlocking operation has been performed based on the key of the vehicle 2.

[0230] When the vehicle 2 has not been unlocked since it was not in use (NO in S71a), the control unit 60 returns the process to step S71a.

[0231] Next, when the vehicle 2 has been unlocked since it was not in use (YES in S71a), the control unit 60 drives the blower 30 in the standard mode to acquire information indicating the current consumption of the blower 30 when the vehicle 2 is not in use or when the door is unlocked since it was not in use from the current detection circuit 51 (S72).

[0232] Next, the control unit 60 stores, in the storage unit 80, the current consumption of the blower 30 when the vehicle 2 is not in use or when the door is unlocked since it was not in use, which is indicated by the information, as a second threshold value, thereby updating the current consumption of the blower 30 when the vehicle 2 is not in use or when the door is unlocked since it was not in use as the second threshold value (S73). Then, the control unit 60 ends the flowchart of FIG. 14. After that, the vehicle seat air conditioner 3 shifts to the operation of the flowchart of FIG. 9 or FIG. 11.

[0233] <Function and Effect> Next, the function and effect of the vehicle seat air conditioner 3 in the present embodiment will be described.

[0234] As described above, in the vehicle seat air conditioner 3 of the present embodiment, the control unit 60 controls the rotation speed of the blower 30 based on the current consumption detected by the current detection circuit 51.

[0235] For example, when the intake port 31a of the intake duct 31 or the discharge port 32a of the discharge duct 32 is covered by a passenger sitting on the seat 1, the flow rate of the air passing through the intake port 31a and the discharge port 32a tends to decrease. When the rotational speed of the blower 30 is constant, if the flow rate of the air passing through the intake port 31a and the discharge port 32a decreases, the power consumption current of the blower 30 also tends to decrease. This is presumably because the air pressure between the covered intake port 31a or discharge port 32a and the blower 30 decreases, that is, the work amount of the blower 30 decreases due to the decrease in the resistance between the air and the propeller of the blower 30.

[0236] Also, if the power consumption current detected by the current detection circuit 51 is small, it is considered that at least one of the intake port 31a and the discharge port 32a is covered by a passenger with a large build, and the air volume passing through the intake port 31a and the discharge port 32a is smaller than when a passenger with an ordinary build sits on the seat 1. Further, if the power consumption current detected by the current detection circuit 51 is large, it is considered that at least one of the intake port 31a and the discharge port 32a is covered by a passenger with a small build, and the air volume passing through the intake port 31a and the discharge port 32a is larger than when a passenger with an ordinary build sits on the seat 1.

[0237] Therefore, according to the present disclosure, if the power consumption current is smaller than when a passenger with an ordinary build sits on the seat 1, the air volume of the blower 30 will decrease, so the control unit 60 can control to increase the rotational speed of the blower 30. Also, if the power consumption current is larger than when a passenger with an ordinary build sits on the seat 1, the air volume of the blower 30 will increase, so the control unit 60 can control to decrease the rotational speed of the blower 30.

[0238] Therefore, this vehicle seat air conditioner 3 can ensure the comfort of the passenger by appropriately adjusting the air volume blown to the passenger.

[0239] In the vehicle seat air conditioner 3 according to the present embodiment, the control unit 60 controls the blower 30 such that the rotational speed increases as the consumed current becomes lower than the second threshold value, and controls the blower 30 such that the rotational speed decreases as the consumed current becomes equal to or higher than the second threshold value.

[0240] According to this, the more the consumed current decreases compared to the case where an occupant of normal build is seated on the seat 1, the control unit 60 can control to increase the rotational speed of the blower 30. Also, the more the consumed current increases compared to the case where an occupant of normal build is seated on the seat 1, the control unit 60 can control to decrease the rotational speed of the blower 30. Therefore, by making the amount of air blown to the occupant more appropriate, the comfort of the occupant can be more ensured.

[0241] In the vehicle seat air conditioner 3 according to the present embodiment, the control unit 60 controls the blower 30 so that the amount of air discharged from the surface of the seat 1 is the same regardless of the state of the occupant seated on the seat 1.

[0242] According to this, regardless of the build and posture of the occupant, the air discharged from the surface of the seat 1 can be made uniform, so by making the amount of air blown to the occupant more appropriate, the comfort of the occupant can be more ensured.

[0243] In the vehicle seat air conditioner 3 according to the present embodiment, the control unit 60 determines the build of the occupant seated on the seat 1 based on the consumed current, and outputs a signal indicating the build of the occupant, which is the result of the determination, to an external device.

[0244] According to this, if the consumed current detected by the current detection circuit 51 is small, the control unit 60 can determine that an occupant with a large build is seated on the seat 1. Also, if the consumed current detected by the current detection circuit 51 is large, the control unit 60 can determine that an occupant with a small build is seated on the seat 1.

[0245] In addition, the control unit 60 can output a signal indicating the physical build of the occupant to an external device. As a result, when the external device is a vehicle control unit (ECU: Electronic Control Unit) or the like, the vehicle control unit can also control the orientation of the imaging device toward the direction where the face of the occupant is assumed to exist by acquiring a signal indicating the physical build of the occupant.

[0246] Further, in the vehicle seat air conditioner 3 of the present embodiment, the control unit 60 determines whether or not the body position of the occupant seated on the seat 1 has changed based on the change in the consumed current, and outputs a signal indicating that there is a change in the body position of the occupant, which is the result of the determination, to an external device.

[0247] According to this, if the amount of change in the consumed current detected by the current detection circuit 51 is large, the control unit 60 can determine that the body position of the occupant is disordered. Also, if the amount of change in the consumed current detected by the current detection circuit 51 is small, the control unit 60 can determine that the occupant is correctly seated on the seat 1.

[0248] Moreover, when the external device is a vehicle control unit or the like, the vehicle control unit can control the orientation of the imaging device toward the direction where the face of the occupant is assumed to exist based on the signal indicating the body position of the occupant.

[0249] Furthermore, in the vehicle seat air conditioner 3 of the present embodiment, a voltage detection circuit 52 for detecting the drive voltage of the blower 30 is further provided. Then, the control unit 60 corrects a second threshold value corresponding to the consumed current of the blower 30 based on the drive voltage detected by the voltage detection circuit 52.

[0250] According to this, the second threshold value can also be corrected by measuring in advance the consumed current of the blower 30 due to the fluctuation of the applied voltage. Thereby, even if there is a fluctuation in the applied voltage due to deterioration of the battery or the like, the physical build and body position of the occupant can be determined more accurately based on the consumed current.

[0251] In the vehicle seat air conditioning device 3 of the present embodiment, the control unit 60 corrects the correlation between the power consumption current and the rotational speed for controlling the rotational speed based on the power consumption current detected by the current detection circuit 51 by driving the blower 30 when the vehicle 2 is not in use or when the door is unlocked after not being in use.

[0252] In this way, even if the seat 1 and the blower 30 deteriorate over time, by correcting the correlation, it becomes possible to ensure a uniform air volume.

[0253] (Other modification examples, etc.) As described above, the present disclosure has been described based on the embodiments. However, the present disclosure is not limited to these embodiments.

[0254] For example, each processing unit included in the vehicle seat air conditioning device according to each of the above embodiments is typically realized as an LSI which is an integrated circuit. These may be individually formed into one chip, or may be formed into one chip so as to include some or all of them.

[0255] Also, the integration is not limited to LSI, and it may be realized by a dedicated circuit or a general-purpose processor. An FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) which can be programmed after LSI manufacturing, or a reconfigurable processor which can reconfigure the connection and setting of circuit cells inside the LSI may be used.

[0256] In each of the above embodiments, each component may be configured by dedicated hardware, or may be realized by executing a software program suitable for each component. Each component may be realized by a program execution unit such as a CPU or a processor reading and executing a software program recorded on a recording medium such as a hard disk or a semiconductor memory.

[0257] Also, all the numbers used above are for exemplification to specifically explain the present disclosure, and the embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited to the exemplified numbers.

[0258] In addition, the division of the functional blocks in the block diagram is merely an example, and a plurality of functional blocks may be realized as one functional block, one functional block may be divided into a plurality, or some functions may be transferred to other functional blocks. Further, the functions of a plurality of functional blocks having similar functions may be processed by a single piece of hardware or software in parallel or in time division.

[0259] In addition, the order in which each step in the flowchart is executed is for the purpose of exemplification for specifically explaining the present disclosure, and may be an order other than the above. Also, some of the above steps may be executed simultaneously (in parallel) with other steps.

[0260] In addition, forms obtained by applying various modifications conceivable by those skilled in the art to the embodiments, and forms realized by arbitrarily combining the components and functions in the embodiments without departing from the spirit of the present disclosure are also included in the present disclosure.

Industrial Applicability

[0261] The present disclosure can be used, for example, for seats for moving bodies such as vehicles, sofas, etc.

Description of Reference Numerals

[0262] 1 Seat 2 Vehicle 3 Vehicle seat air conditioner 11c1 Central part 11c2 Outer edge part 11e Front end part 11d Rear part 30 Blower 31 Intake duct 32 Discharge duct 51 Current detection circuit 52 Voltage detection circuit 60 Control unit

Claims

1. a blower built into the seat; at least one of an intake duct that sucks air from the surface of the seat by the blower and an exhaust duct that discharges air from the surface of the seat by the blower; a control unit electrically connected to the blower; the seat has an intake port for the intake duct to suck the air on the surface on which the occupant sits; the blower has a current detection circuit for detecting the current consumption of the blower; the control unit determines the presence or absence of an occupant sitting on the seat based on the current consumption detected by the current detection circuit; when determining the presence or absence of an occupant sitting on the seat, the control unit determines that the occupant is sitting on the seat when the current consumption is lower than a first threshold value; a vehicle seat air conditioner.

2. when the control unit determines that the occupant is sitting on the seat, the control unit controls the blower so that the rotational speed of the blower becomes a steady rotational speed; The vehicle seat air conditioner according to Claim 1.

3. the control unit; when determining the presence or absence of an occupant sitting on the seat, if the current consumption is greater than or equal to the first threshold value, the control unit determines that the occupant is not sitting on the seat; when determining that the occupant is not sitting on the seat, the control unit controls the blower so that the rotational speed is lower than the rotational speed of the blower when it is determined that the occupant is sitting on the seat; The vehicle seat air conditioner according to Claim 1 or 2.

4. the control unit updates the first threshold value with the current consumption detected by the current detection circuit by driving the blower when the vehicle is not in use or when the door is unlocked after not being in use; The vehicle seat air conditioner according to any one of Claims 1 to 3.

5. further comprising a voltage detection circuit for detecting the drive voltage of the blower; the control unit corrects the current consumption of the blower based on the drive voltage detected by the voltage detection circuit; The vehicle seat air conditioner according to any one of Claims 1 to 4.

6. further comprising a voltage detection circuit for detecting the drive voltage of the blower; the control unit corrects the first threshold value based on the drive voltage detected by the voltage detection circuit; The vehicle seat air conditioner according to any one of Claims 1 to 4.

7. the current detection circuit is also used as an overcurrent detection circuit of the blower The vehicle seat air conditioning device according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

8. When the consumption current exceeds the upper limit value, the control unit outputs a warning signal to an external device. The vehicle seat air conditioning device according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

9. The intake duct is formed at the center and the outer edge of the seat surface, which is the surface on the side where a person sits on the seat. The vehicle seat air conditioning device according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

10. The outer edge portion is at least one of the rear portion and the front end portion of the seat surface. The vehicle seat air conditioning device according to claim 9.

11. The control unit controls the rotation speed of the blower based on the consumption current detected by the current detection circuit. The vehicle seat air conditioning device according to claim 1.

12. The control unit controls the blower so that the rotation speed increases as the consumption current is lower than the second threshold value, and controls the blower so that the rotation speed decreases as the consumption current is equal to or higher than the second threshold value. The vehicle seat air conditioning device according to claim 11.

13. The control unit controls the blower so that the amount of air discharged from the surface of the seat is the same regardless of the state of the occupant sitting on the seat. The vehicle seat air conditioning device according to claim 11 or 12.

14. The control unit determines the physique of the occupant sitting on the seat based on the consumption current, and outputs a signal indicating the physique of the occupant, which is the result of the determination, to an external device. The vehicle seat air conditioning device according to any one of claims 11 to 13.

15. The control unit determines whether or not the body position of the occupant sitting on the seat has changed based on the change in the consumption current, and outputs a signal indicating that there is a change in the body position of the occupant, which is the result of the determination, to the external device. The vehicle seat air conditioning device according to claim 14.

16. The vehicle seat air conditioning device further includes a voltage detection circuit that detects the drive voltage of the blower, and the control unit corrects the second threshold value corresponding to the consumption current of the blower based on the drive voltage detected by the voltage detection circuit. The vehicle seat air conditioning device according to any one of claims 11 to 15.

17. The control unit corrects the correlation between the consumption current and the rotation speed for controlling the rotation speed based on the consumption current detected by the current detection circuit by driving the blower when the vehicle is not in use or when the door is unlocked after the vehicle is not in use. The vehicle seat air conditioning device according to any one of claims 11 to 16.

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