Heated seat temperature control management system

Abstract

The present invention relates to a temperature control management system for heated seats installed at public transportation stops. Its purpose is to provide a comfortable thermal environment for passengers and minimize energy consumption by controlling the heating element in real time based on the passenger's seating status and internal and external temperatures. The invention comprises a heated seat, a heating element, a human body detection sensor unit, an internal temperature sensor unit, an external temperature sensor unit, a surface temperature sensor unit, a power supply unit, a temperature controller, and a control unit. The control unit is linked with an operation time management unit, a smart power management unit, a temperature gradual control unit, etc., to efficiently control the operating status and temperature of the heating element. Furthermore, it receives power in an eco-friendly manner through solar panels and a battery storage unit, and can enhance the safety and convenience of the system through IoT-based remote control and status monitoring functions.

Description

Technology Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a temperature control system for effectively controlling and managing the temperature of heated seats installed at public transportation stops, and to technology related thereto. Background Technology

[0003] Public transportation stops are places where passengers wait for public transport, and it is important to provide a suitable waiting environment, especially in cold weather such as winter. To this end, heated seats are being widely installed; however, existing heated seats often operate continuously at a constant temperature without adequately reflecting the presence of passengers or external environmental conditions. This mode of operation results in low energy efficiency and can lead to unnecessary power consumption, as well as safety issues caused by overheating or discomfort experienced by passengers.

[0004] Some existing heated chairs utilize simple timers or basic temperature controls to limit operating time or regulate temperature. However, these methods fail to detect the presence of passengers or account for changes in external and internal temperatures, limiting their ability to meet passenger needs. Furthermore, the lack of features to improve energy efficiency or maintenance leads to increased actual operating costs.

[0005] Furthermore, existing heated chairs in conventional technology cause unnecessary energy waste by operating continuously even when passengers are not seated or by failing to detect passenger presence. Because they operate without control in environments with low external temperatures or high internal temperatures, users often fail to perceive the appropriate temperature. This not only lowers passenger satisfaction but also has a negative impact on environmental sustainability due to power waste.

[0006] In addition, existing heated chairs lack monitoring and emergency response functions for system failures or overheating of the heating element, requiring improvement in terms of user safety. Furthermore, there is a problem of reduced management efficiency due to the insufficient ability to remotely monitor or control the status using IoT technology.

[0007] Therefore, to address these issues, the present invention proposes a novel heated chair temperature control management system that considers passenger detection, reflection of external and internal temperature changes, energy efficiency optimization, enhanced safety, and ease of management. The present invention is designed to precisely control the heating element based on the presence of passengers and ambient temperature, thereby achieving both energy savings and passenger convenience simultaneously. Furthermore, it improves management efficiency through real-time monitoring and remote control functions utilizing IoT technology, and includes multi-sensor fusion and emergency stop functions to enhance the safety of the heated chair. This configuration overcomes the limitations of existing technologies and can provide a better user experience and operational efficiency. Prior art literature

[0009] Patent Document 1: Korean Published Patent Application No. 2016-0039467 (Published April 11, 2016) Patent Document 2: Korean Registered Patent Application No. 10-2748566 (Registered December 26, 2024) The problem to be solved

[0010] This invention aims to solve the problems associated with existing technologies for heated seats installed at public transportation stops. Specifically, it aims to increase energy efficiency, reduce unnecessary power consumption, and enhance passenger convenience by optimizing the operation of the heated seat based on the presence of passengers and external and internal temperatures, while providing passengers with an appropriate temperature. Furthermore, it aims to strengthen system safety and increase management efficiency through real-time monitoring and remote control functions utilizing IoT technology. means of solving the problem

[0012] According to one aspect for achieving the above-mentioned purpose, the present invention provides a heated chair temperature control management system installed at a public transportation stop, comprising: a heated chair; a heating element installed on the heated chair; a human body detection sensor unit that detects the presence or absence of a passenger seated on the heated chair; an internal temperature sensor unit that detects the temperature inside the heated chair; an external temperature sensor unit that detects the temperature outside the heated chair; a power supply unit that supplies power to the heating element; a temperature controller that sets and controls the operating temperature of the heating element; and a control unit that collects data from the human body detection sensor unit, the internal temperature sensor unit, and the external temperature sensor unit to control the heating element. Effects of the invention

[0014] According to the present invention, energy efficiency can be improved and unnecessary power waste can be prevented by precisely controlling the operation of a heated chair based on the presence or absence of passengers and external and internal temperatures. In addition, convenience can be increased by providing passengers with an optimal thermal environment, and safety can be enhanced through overheating prevention and emergency stop functions. Furthermore, management efficiency can be increased through IoT-based real-time monitoring and remote control functions. Brief explanation of the drawing

[0016] The attached drawings are intended to explain the contents of the present invention in more detail to those skilled in the art, and the technical concept of the present invention is not limited thereto. FIG. 1 is a drawing of a public transportation stop showing a state in which a heated chair temperature control management system according to an embodiment of the present invention is applied. FIG. 2 is a drawing showing a heated chair according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3 is a drawing showing a block diagram according to the configuration of the present invention. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing the configuration of a control unit applied to the present invention. Specific details for implementing the invention

[0017] Hereinafter, embodiments according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. In this process, the size or shape of components illustrated in the drawings may be exaggerated for clarity and convenience of explanation. Furthermore, terms specifically defined in consideration of the configuration and operation of the present invention may vary depending on the intent or convention of the user or operator. The definitions of such terms should be based on the content throughout this specification.

[0018] Furthermore, the concept of the present invention is not limited to the presented embodiments, and those skilled in the art who understand the concept of the present invention may easily implement other embodiments within the scope of the same concept, and it is understood that such embodiments also fall within the scope of the present invention.

[0019] FIG. 1 is a drawing of a public transportation stop (10) showing the state in which a temperature control management system for a heated chair (100) according to an embodiment of the present invention is applied, FIG. 2 is a drawing showing a heated chair (100) according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 3 is a drawing showing a block diagram according to the configuration of the present invention, and FIG. 4 is a drawing showing the configuration of a control unit (600) applied to the present invention. Hereinafter, the temperature control management system for a heated chair (100) according to the present invention will be described in detail through FIG. 1 to 4 and the embodiment.

[0020] The present invention relates to a temperature control management system for effectively managing the temperature of a heated chair (100) installed at a public transportation stop (10) to maximize energy efficiency and user convenience.

[0021] The present invention is a temperature control management system for a heated chair (100) installed at a public transportation stop (10), and aims to provide a comfortable thermal environment to passengers while minimizing energy consumption by efficiently controlling a heating element (150) by detecting in real time whether a passenger is seated and internal and external temperatures. The system according to the present invention is composed of a heated chair (100), a heating element (150), a human body detection sensor unit (200), an internal temperature sensor unit (111), an external temperature sensor unit (300), a power supply unit (400), a temperature controller (500), and a control unit (600).

[0022] The heated chair (100) of the present invention is a structure designed to allow passengers waiting at a public transportation stop (10) to wait comfortably and safely even in cold weather, and includes a configuration and function that is differentiated from existing technology. The heated chair (100) of the present invention consists of a top plate assembly (110), a heat dissipation plate (120), a cover (130), and chair legs (140), and is designed and manufactured considering various environmental conditions of the public transportation stop (10) and high durability.

[0023] The top plate assembly (110) of the present invention includes an internal temperature sensor bracket, a horizontal axis reinforcing member (113), and a vertical axis reinforcing member (112) to enhance the structural stability of the heated chair (100). The top plate assembly (110) of the present invention includes a bracket structure with a built-in temperature sensor, allowing for accurate real-time detection of the internal temperature. This enables the provision of a more stable thermal environment to passengers. Additionally, the horizontal and vertical axis reinforcing members (112) are designed to maintain the shape and strength of the chair even with long-term use, and high-strength lightweight materials are adopted to improve ease of installation and maintenance.

[0024] The above top plate assembly (110), horizontal axis reinforcing member (113), and vertical axis reinforcing member (112) may be manufactured using high-strength lightweight materials such as aluminum alloy and carbon fiber reinforced plastic, but are not limited thereto.

[0025] The heat sink (120) of the present invention serves to evenly distribute heat generated from the heating element (150) over the entire surface of the heated chair (100). The heat sink (120) used in the present invention is made of an alloy with excellent thermal conductivity, and unlike conventional technology, a coating treatment can be applied to the surface of the heat sink (120) to enhance anti-slip properties and durability.

[0026] The alloy with excellent thermal conductivity mentioned above may be a copper alloy or an aluminum alloy, but is not limited thereto.

[0027] The surface temperature sensor unit (160) installed on the heat sink (120) of the present invention detects the surface temperature of the heating unit (150) in real time and can precisely control the temperature of the heating unit (150) in conjunction with the control unit (600).

[0028] The above surface temperature sensor unit (160) can be in direct contact with the heating unit (150) or attached to the heat sink (120) to accurately measure the temperature of the heating unit (150) through heat conduction.

[0029] In the present invention, a high-precision semiconductor-based temperature sensor capable of detecting local temperature changes of the heating element (150) can be used.

[0030] The above surface temperature sensor unit (160) is based on a thermoresistive temperature sensing element (RTD) or a thermocouple and provides a precision of within ±0.1℃, and can detect even local temperature changes that may occur in a specific area of ​​the heat sink (120).

[0031] In addition, the surface temperature sensor part (160) can be sealed with a silicone encapsulated material having excellent heat resistance and moisture resistance to be protected from the external environment (e.g., moisture, dust).

[0032] Additionally, the surface temperature sensor unit (160) of the present invention is linked with an overheating prevention algorithm and transmits an emergency stop signal to the control unit (600) when the temperature of the heating unit (150) exceeds a set limit range (e.g., 40℃). The control unit (600) receives this signal and immediately stops the operation of the heating unit (150), and at the same time can transmit a warning notification to the administrator through the IoT-based status monitoring unit (640).

[0033] For example, the surface temperature sensor unit (160) transmits an emergency stop signal to the control unit (600) within 1 second when the temperature of the heating unit (150) exceeds 40℃. The control unit (600) can stop the operation of the heating unit (150) as soon as it receives this signal.

[0034] Additionally, when overheating occurs, the surface temperature sensor unit (160) is configured to be linked with the IoT-based status monitoring unit (640) to send a warning notification to the administrator. The warning notification is delivered via a smartphone app or a web dashboard and provides the administrator with information to check the cause of the overheating and take appropriate measures. For example, the administrator can check the status of the heating unit (150) through the remote control unit (650) or reboot the system to resolve the problem.

[0035] Additionally, the surface temperature sensor unit (160) may include an automatic recovery function to enable the system to be reliably restarted after overheating occurs. After the heating unit (150) is stopped in an emergency, the control unit (600) checks whether the surface temperature has returned to a set safety range (e.g., 35°C or lower) and resumes the operation of the heating unit (150) only when it has returned to the safety range.

[0036] The cover (130) of the present invention protects the top plate assembly (110) and the heat sink (120) from the outside and performs the function of effectively wrapping internal components, as well as providing durability, waterproof / dustproof functions and ease of maintenance.

[0037] The above cover (130) may be made of high-performance polycarbonate (PC) or polymer composite material (e.g., ABS + polycarbonate blend) that combines durability and lightness, but is not limited thereto.

[0038] In addition, the cover (130) can provide IP67-rated water and dust resistance.

[0039] In addition, the cover (130) can be designed with a snap-fit ​​structure that can be easily attached and detached without tools.

[0040] Additionally, the cover (130) may further include a ventilation opening to promote heat dissipation. The ventilation opening can improve the heat dissipation efficiency of the heat sink (120) and the heat source (150) by preventing excessive internal heat accumulation, and can be protected by special lamination treatment and a waterproof mesh to prevent water or dust from entering from the outside.

[0041] The heating element (150) is a major component installed inside the heated chair (100) and generates heat using electrical energy. The heating element (150) maintains the internal temperature at a constant level and adjusts the operating temperature based on a control signal from the control unit (600). The heating element (150) ensures thermal uniformity throughout the heated chair (100) so that it can provide an appropriate temperature in the area where the passenger is seated.

[0042] The human body detection sensor unit (200) is installed in the heated chair (100) to detect whether a passenger is seated. The human body detection sensor unit (200) accurately detects whether a passenger is seated by utilizing a pressure sensor, an infrared sensor, or an ultrasonic sensor. This sensor detects the passenger's weight or body contact and transmits the corresponding data to the control unit (600), thereby allowing the heating unit (150) to be deactivated when there is no passenger, thereby saving energy.

[0043] The internal temperature sensor unit (111) detects the internal temperature of the heated chair (100) in real time, and the external temperature sensor unit (300) measures the external environment temperature of the public transportation stop (10). The data from these sensors is transmitted to the control unit (600) and is used to determine the operating conditions of the heating unit (150). The lower the external temperature, the higher the operating frequency of the heating unit (150), and if the internal temperature rises excessively, the heating unit (150) is stopped to prevent overheating.

[0044] The power supply unit (400) serves to supply power to the heating unit (150), the control unit (600), and other electronic components. In the present invention, an eco-friendly power supply unit (800) is included, which receives power through a solar panel installed on the roof of the public transportation stop (10) and a battery storage unit (700). The solar panel generates eco-friendly energy, and the battery storage unit (700) stores the generated power so that the system can operate stably even at night or in cloudy weather.

[0045] The above temperature controller (500) is a component that sets and controls the operating temperature of the heating unit (150) and operates in conjunction with the control unit (600). The temperature controller (500) automatically controls the temperature of the heating unit (150) based on the passenger's perceived temperature and the external environment temperature, thereby providing a comfortable thermal environment. When a passenger is seated, the temperature of the heating unit (150) is raised to 38°C, and when not seated, it is maintained at 20°C.

[0046] The above control unit (600) is connected to a human body detection sensor unit (200), an external temperature sensor unit (300), an internal temperature sensor unit (111), a surface temperature sensor unit (160), a power supply unit (400), a temperature controller (500), a heating unit (150), a battery storage unit (700), and an eco-friendly power supply unit (800) to analyze data collected from each sensor and control the operating state and temperature of the heating unit (150), and can be configured to maximize energy efficiency and safety.

[0047] Specifically, the human body detection sensor unit (200) detects whether a passenger is seated and transmits data to the control unit (600). The present invention enables precise detection of the presence or absence of a passenger using an infrared sensor. For example, it can detect the passenger's seating position or movement to minimize unnecessary operation of the heating unit (150). The control unit (600) can save energy consumption by activating or deactivating the heating unit (150) based on this data.

[0048] The above external temperature sensor unit (300) and internal temperature sensor unit (111) each detect the external temperature of the public transportation stop (10) and the internal temperature of the heated chair (100), and provide data to the control unit (600).

[0049] The surface temperature sensor unit (160) monitors the surface temperature of the heating unit (150) in real time and transmits an emergency signal to the control unit (600) when overheating occurs to immediately stop the heating unit (150).

[0050] The power supply unit (400) supplies power to major electronic components such as the heating unit (150) and the control unit (600). In the present invention, a bidirectional power monitoring function is added to check power consumption and supply status in real time. Additionally, the power supply unit (400) is connected to a battery storage unit (700) and an eco-friendly power supply unit (800). The battery storage unit (700) stores energy generated from solar panels, enabling stable power supply even in cloudy weather or at night. The eco-friendly power supply unit (800) utilizes solar energy to increase the sustainability of the system and reduce operating costs.

[0051] The above temperature controller (500) is connected to the control unit (600) and plays the role of setting and adjusting the operating temperature of the heating unit (150). The temperature controller (500) of the present invention adjusts the temperature of the heating unit (150) by comprehensively analyzing the passenger's perceived temperature data and the external environment temperature. Through this, optimal heat of 38°C is provided to a seated passenger, and the temperature is maintained at 20°C when not seated, thereby realizing energy saving.

[0052] The heating element (150) is configured to be located inside the heated chair (100) and generate heat, and operates as a multiple heating control zone according to the command of the control unit (600).

[0053] Additionally, the control unit (600) may include an operation time management unit (610), a current time management unit (620), a smart power management unit (630), a monitoring unit (640), a remote control unit (650), and a temperature gradual control unit (660), and may be configured to efficiently adjust the operating time and temperature of the heating unit (150), monitor the system status in real time, and control it remotely through each of these functions.

[0054] The above-mentioned operation time management unit (610) stores and manages public transportation operation time data and can perform the function of dynamically adjusting the operation time of the heating unit (150) based on this.

[0055] In the present invention, the heating element (150) is switched to a power-saving mode during non-operating hours in conjunction with the public transportation operation pattern. At this time, the heating element (150) is maintained at 15°C and is set so that it does not operate even if a passenger is seated, unless it is during public transportation operation hours, thereby preventing energy waste.

[0056] The above current time management unit (620) detects the current time by linking with an electronic clock and accurately matches the public transportation operating time through a standard time synchronization protocol.

[0057] The smart power management unit (630) of the present invention efficiently manages the power consumption of the heating unit (150) based on public transportation operation time data, and in particular, can realize energy saving by switching the heating unit (150) to a power saving mode when it is not operating time.

[0058] The smart power management unit (630) operates in conjunction with the control unit (600) and can dynamically adjust the operating state of the heating unit (150) by receiving data from the operation time management unit (610) that stores public transportation operation time data and the current time management unit (620) that detects the current time.

[0059] For example, the smart power management unit (630) automatically activates a power saving mode that maintains the temperature of the heating unit (150) at 15℃ when it is not public transportation operating time.

[0060] In addition, in power saving mode, if no passenger is detected, the operating status of the heating unit (150) is checked at 30-minute intervals, thereby controlling the heating unit (150) so that it does not operate more than necessary.

[0061] For example, in winter when the outside temperature is extremely low, the heating element (150) provides minimal heat even in power saving mode so that the heated chair (100) does not freeze, and under conditions where the outside temperature is relatively mild, the frequency of operation of the heating element (150) can be reduced to more effectively suppress power consumption.

[0062] In addition, the smart power management unit (630) is designed to reduce energy consumption by approximately 15% compared to existing technology. This is possible by dynamically adjusting the operating time and temperature of the heating unit (150) in power-saving mode.

[0063] For example, the temperature of the heating element (150) can be gradually increased one hour before public transportation operation begins, so that it can be kept in a ready state to quickly reach the set temperature while preventing unnecessary power waste.

[0064] Additionally, the smart power management unit (630) analyzes power consumption data related to the heating unit (150) in real time and adjusts the priority of power supply based on this. For example, when public transportation operation time approaches, power is supplied in advance from the battery storage unit (700) to prepare so that the heating unit (150) can operate normally. On the other hand, after operation time ends, the power of the heating unit (150) is limited to minimize battery consumption.

[0065] In addition, the smart power management unit (630) operates in conjunction with the solar panel and the battery storage unit (700), and can reduce dependence on external power by using the generated power preferentially.

[0066] The above monitoring unit (640) operates based on IoT and can detect the status of the heated chair (100) in real time and provide it to the manager. In the present invention, various information such as the operating status of the sensor and the heating unit (150), as well as the power supply status and temperature control data, can be monitored.

[0067] In particular, administrators can check the system status in real time anytime and anywhere through smartphone apps or web dashboards and respond quickly to problems when they occur.

[0068] The remote control unit (650) allows an administrator to remotely control the heating unit (150) and the thermostat (500) through a smartphone app or web dashboard.

[0069] For example, the manager can adjust the temperature of the heating element (150) according to external temperature changes, or completely disable the heating element (150) if necessary.

[0070] The above temperature gradual control unit (660) is a function for optimizing the passenger's perceived temperature and gradually raises or lowers the temperature of the heating unit (150).

[0071] The temperature gradual control unit (660) of the present invention can gradually increase the temperature of the heating unit (150) immediately after a passenger is seated, thereby minimizing discomfort caused by changes in perceived temperature.

[0072] In particular, the temperature gradual control unit (660) of the present invention can dynamically adjust the rate of temperature rise by analyzing external temperature data measured by the external temperature sensor unit (300) in real time. When the external temperature is very low, the heating unit (150) is controlled to reach a set temperature (e.g., 38°C) relatively quickly, and when the external temperature is slightly low, the rate of temperature rise is adjusted gradually so that the passenger can maintain a more comfortable state.

[0073] For example, when the external temperature is 0°C or lower, the temperature gradual control unit (660) raises the temperature of the heating unit (150) at a rate of 2°C per second, and when the external temperature is 10°C or higher, it raises the temperature at a rate of 0.5°C per second.

[0074] In addition, the temperature gradual control unit (660) can control the operation of the heating unit (150) by comprehensively analyzing data from the internal temperature sensor unit (111) and the surface temperature sensor unit (160) in addition to external temperature data, so that the temperature of the heating unit (150) does not overheat locally in the area where the passenger is seated, and a uniform temperature is maintained on the entire surface of the heated chair (100).

[0075] As such, the present invention is a useful system that provides an optimal thermal environment for passengers at public transportation stops and enhances efficient energy management and safety, thereby maximizing passenger convenience and management efficiency.

[0076] The foregoing description of the present invention is for illustrative purposes only, and those skilled in the art will understand that other specific forms can be easily modified without altering the technical spirit or essential features of the present invention. Therefore, the embodiments described above should be understood as illustrative in all respects and not restrictive. Explanation of the symbols

[0078] 10: Bus Stop 500: Thermostat 100: Heated chair 600: Control unit 110: Top plate assembly 610: Operation Time Management Department 111: Internal temperature sensor unit 620: Current Time Management Department 112: Vertical axis reinforcement 630: Smart Power Management Unit 113: Horizontal axis reinforcement 640: Monitoring Department 120: Heat sink 650: Remote control unit 130: Cover 660: Temperature gradual control unit 140: Chair legs 700: Battery storage unit 150: Heating element 800: Eco-friendly power supply 160: Surface temperature sensor unit 200: Human body detection sensor unit 300: External temperature sensor unit 400: Power supply

Claims

Claim 1 A heated chair temperature control management system installed at a public transportation stop, comprising: a heated chair; a heating element installed on the heated chair; a human body detection sensor unit that detects the presence or absence of a passenger seated on the heated chair; an internal temperature sensor unit that detects the temperature inside the heated chair; an external temperature sensor unit that detects the temperature outside the heated chair; a power supply unit that supplies power to the heating element; a temperature controller that sets and controls the operating temperature of the heating element; and a control unit that collects data from the human body detection sensor unit, the internal temperature sensor unit, and the external temperature sensor unit to control the heating element. Claim 2 A heated chair temperature control management system according to claim 1, wherein the control unit operates the heating unit when the temperature detected by the external temperature sensor unit is less than 18℃, stops the heating unit when the temperature detected by the internal temperature sensor unit exceeds 38℃, maintains the heating unit at 20℃ when no passenger is detected by the human body detection sensor unit, and raises the heating unit to 38℃ when a passenger is detected by the human body detection sensor unit. Claim 3 A heated chair temperature control management system according to claim 2, wherein the control unit includes an operation time management unit that stores public transportation operation time data and a current time verification unit that detects the current time, and further includes a smart power management unit that switches the heating unit to a power saving mode when it is not public transportation operation time, and maintains the heating unit at 15℃ in the power saving mode. Claim 4 A heated chair temperature control management system according to paragraph 3, wherein the control unit further comprises an IoT-based status monitoring unit capable of monitoring the status of the heated chair in real time, and a remote control unit capable of remotely controlling the heating unit through a smartphone app or a web dashboard. Claim 5 A heated chair temperature control management system according to claim 4, wherein the control unit further includes a temperature gradual control unit that gradually raises or lowers the temperature of the heating unit, and the temperature gradual control unit gradually raises the temperature of the heating unit immediately after a passenger sits down. Claim 6 A heated chair temperature control management system according to claim 1, wherein the power supply unit receives power through a solar panel installed on the roof of the public transportation stop and a battery storage unit, and further includes an eco-friendly power supply unit that reduces power consumption of the heating unit. Claim 7 A heating chair temperature control management system according to claim 1, wherein the heating chair comprises: a top plate assembly including an internal temperature sensor bracket, a horizontal axis reinforcing member, and a vertical axis reinforcing member; a heat sink located on the upper surface of the top plate assembly and dispersing heat; a cover located on the upper surface of the heat sink and protecting the top plate assembly and the heat sink; and a chair leg located on the lower surface of the vertical axis reinforcing member. Claim 8 A heating chair temperature control management system according to claim 7, wherein the heating chair further includes a surface temperature sensor unit located on the upper part of the heating plate and measuring the surface temperature of the heating unit in addition to the internal temperature sensor unit, and is characterized by emergency stopping the heating unit when the temperature of the heating unit exceeds 40℃, which is a set limit range, at the surface temperature sensor unit.

Images