System for homogenising temperatures inside a passenger transport vehicle and method for assembling same

Abstract

The present invention describes a system for homogenising temperatures inside a passenger transport vehicle and a method for manufacturing same. The present invention specifically comprises a system for homogenising temperatures that homogenises the temperature in a passenger compartment of a vehicle using a selective air flow directing device implemented in a luggage rack of the vehicle, wherein said directing device directs the flow of climatised / conditioned air to a given region of the vehicle, operating automatically on the basis of a distribution of thermal parameters detected throughout the interior of the vehicle. The present invention thus provides greater passenger comfort by uniformly providing a pleasant temperature throughout the vehicle, as well as greater passenger safety, since the driver of the vehicle does not need to operate the system to activate it; it also optimises the efficiency of the air conditioning / cooling system of the vehicle, saving fuel and reducing the emission of pollutants. The directing device also has a geometry configured to fit symmetrically to the internal structure of the vehicle luggage rack, directing the air flow which passes through air ducts inside the luggage rack in an optimised and efficient way, as well as being easy to assemble in the vehicle. The present invention pertains to the fields of mechanical engineering and transport phenomena aimed at thermodynamics and thermal comfort in public transport vehicles.

Description

Descriptive Report of Invention Patent TEMPERATURE HOMOGENIZATION SYSTEM INSIDE PASSENGER TRANSPORT VEHICLES AND ASSEMBLY PROCESS OF THE SAME Field of Invention

[0001] The present invention comprises a temperature homogenization system that homogenizes the temperature in the passenger compartment of a vehicle using a selective airflow director installed in the vehicle's parcel rack. The director directs the airflow of air-conditioned air to a specific area of ​​the vehicle, operating automatically based on a distribution of thermal parameters detected throughout the vehicle's interior. Furthermore, the director's geometry is configured to fit symmetrically with the vehicle's parcel rack internal structure, optimally and efficiently directing the airflow passing through air ducts within the parcel rack. The present invention relates to the fields of mechanical engineering and transportation phenomena, focusing on thermodynamics and thermal comfort in public transportation vehicles. Background of the Invention

[0002] In passenger transport vehicles, air conditioning systems are installed to provide ventilation, cooling, and / or air renewal within the vehicle. Typically, these systems are installed on the roof, between the vehicle's axles. Therefore, one technical challenge is distributing the conditioned air, and consequently the temperature, evenly throughout the vehicle's interior.

[0003] Generally, a temperature inside a vehicle is considered comfortable for most people. However, when there are variations up and down in relation to this temperature throughout the In the passenger compartment, some people end up feeling cold, while others feel hot. This makes it difficult to maintain a comfortable temperature for everyone.

[0004] To meet this need, vehicles such as intercity buses have ducts that run the entire length of the vehicle, distributing conditioned air to the interior through vents throughout the passenger compartment. Additionally, there are individual vents located at the bottom of the luggage rack or parcel shelf, where the ducts run above the seats. These vents allow airflow to be adjusted for each passenger, offering greater individual control.

[0005] However, several factors hinder the even distribution of temperature through the air conditioning system's ducts, vents, and other vents. These factors are linked to the varying thermal load the vehicle faces during travel. For example, in rear-wheel-drive vehicles, engine components generate heat in the rear, which increases with energy demand and operating time. Furthermore, the thermal load varies depending on the number of passengers and the amount of sunlight through the windows. Opening individual vents also affects the uniformity of air conditioning distribution and, consequently, the temperature inside the vehicle.

[0006] In this sense, state-of-the-art solutions are not capable of solving all of the aforementioned problems in a simplified, optimized manner, using equipment and devices that are easy to manufacture and install in the vehicle.

[0007] In the search for the state of the art in scientific and patent literature, the following documents were found that deal with the topic:

[0008] Document CN116729057A discloses an air outlet device for automobiles with front and rear seats, in which it adjusts the ambient temperature in a targeted manner through an air flow director positioned on a rail, a controller and temperature sensors, with the air flow passing inside the rail and exiting through two outlets, one directed to the front seats and the other to the rear seat. The The airflow control slides automatically along the length of the track, closing one of the two air vents and directing air to the front or rear seats in response to temperatures detected by sensors inside the vehicle. Furthermore, because the air passes through the track (horizontal airflow), the airflow control in document CN1 16729057A has three curved flaps to direct air downward and toward the front seats, but lacks the curvature to direct air toward the rear seats, resulting in inefficient air flow and, consequently, inefficient and ineffective temperature distribution and homogenization.

[0009] Document CN1 15042592A discloses a bus temperature difference control system, comprising an air channel with a sliding bar attached thereto and a plurality of air outlets distributed throughout the air channel. Furthermore, the system has a controller that controls the movement of the sliding bar based on temperatures detected by sensors. Thus, the sliding bar slides along the air channel, automatically closing or opening (fully or partially) the air outlets according to the detected temperature. However, the sliding bar does not operate as an airflow director, but rather as a control over the amount of air passing through the air outlets. That is, the more the sliding bar closes the air outlets, the less air passes through the outlets and the less air enters the bus interior.

[0010] Document CN107270499A discloses a train airflow control and adjustment system, comprising an airflow channel, a controller that controls the airflow based on data from a sensing device, said sensing device detecting airflow speed and temperature, and air outlets comprising an opening and outlets adjustable by a retractable door. The adjustable outlets are arranged above the passenger seats and can be opened or closed by the passenger as needed. However, the airflow direction of document CN107270499A is done individually at each seat by means of the angled opening of the hatch prevents the airflow from being distributed evenly throughout the train. Furthermore, the hatch only opens and closes at an angle, preventing it from being moved longitudinally along the vehicle to direct the airflow along the length of the vehicle.

[0011] Thus, from what can be inferred from the literature researched, no documents were found anticipating or suggesting the teachings of the present invention, so that the solution proposed here has novelty and inventive step compared to the state of the art.

[0012] Thus, the state of the art lacks a temperature homogenization system for vehicles, especially for passenger transport vehicles, which has an arrangement and geometric profiles specially configured and optimized to deliver an air flow that quickly and simply standardizes the temperature inside the vehicle, and that the configuration is easy to adapt and associate with any passenger transport vehicle.

[0013] In this sense, we seek to develop solutions aimed at equalizing the temperature and air flow inside passenger transport vehicles, operating according to the thermal demand of regions inside the vehicle, with the aim of providing greater comfort to passengers. Summary of the Invention

[0014] Thus, the present invention aims to solve the problems of the prior art by providing a temperature homogenization system inside a passenger transport vehicle using a selective airflow director installed in the vehicle. The device automatically diverts the airflow to a specific region of the vehicle based on a distribution of thermal parameters detected throughout the passenger compartment. Thus, the present invention provides comfort by equalizing a pleasant temperature throughout the vehicle, as well as safety for passengers, since the vehicle driver no need to activate the system.

[0015] Additionally, with this intelligent electronic control for equalizing the temperature and air flow in the passenger compartment, the present invention optimizes the efficiency of the air conditioning system and / or air conditioning unit, reducing fuel consumption and, consequently, the emission of pollutants into the environment.

[0016] In a first object, the present invention presents a system for homogenizing temperatures inside a passenger transport vehicle, which comprises at least one ventilation structure positioned in a parcel rack arranged along the length of the vehicle, in which the ventilation structure comprises a front ventilation device and a rear ventilation device, in which the front and rear ventilation devices direct the circulation of air inside the vehicle by means of a directing device associated with the parcel rack and configured to guide the direction of the air flow that passes through the front and rear ventilation devices relatively in function of at least one thermal parameter of an internal region of the vehicle.

[0017] In a second object, the present invention presents a process for assembling a temperature homogenization system inside a passenger transport vehicle comprising the steps of: a. associating at least one ventilation structure in a parcel rack of the vehicle, being positioned along the length of the vehicle, in which the ventilation structure is formed by a front ventilation device and a rear ventilation device provided with a plurality of openings (13); and b. associating a directing device to the parcel rack, the directing device being communicating with the front ventilation device and the rear ventilation device; - wherein the steering device is configured to steer the direction of flow of air passing through the front and rear ventilation devices relatively in function of at least one thermal parameter of an internal region of the vehicle.

[0018] In a third object, the present invention presents a passenger transport vehicle comprising an air duct connected to an air conditioning unit and comprising a temperature homogenization system, which comprises at least one ventilation structure positioned in a parcel rack arranged along the length of the vehicle, the ventilation structure comprising a front ventilation device and a rear ventilation device, which direct the air circulation inside the vehicle by means of a directing device associated with the parcel rack and configured to guide the direction of the air flow that passes through the front and rear ventilation devices relatively according to at least one thermal parameter of an internal region of the vehicle.

[0019] These and other objects of the invention will be immediately appreciated by those skilled in the art and will be described in detail below. Brief Description of the Figures

[0020] The following figures are presented:

[0021] Figure 1 shows an embodiment of the passenger transport vehicle of the present invention, exemplifying a distribution of the air flow coming from an air conditioning unit (20) to the interior of the vehicle.

[0022] Figure 2 shows an embodiment of a parcel carrier (10) that receives the air flow from the air conditioning unit (20) through the pipes (9).

[0023] Figure 3 shows a cross-sectional view of the embodiment of the parcel carrier (10) of figure 2, illustrating the first distribution chamber (40) and the second distribution chamber (50).

[0024] Figure 4 shows an embodiment of the parcel rack (10), illustrating the front (11) and rear (12) ventilation devices associated with it. parcel carrier (10), as well as illustrating the air outlets (60) of the parcel carrier (10).

[0025] Figure 5 shows a perspective view of an embodiment of the selective air flow directing device (2) of the present invention, illustrating the sliding engagement geometry (4.1) of the selector tabs (4) to the rail. (3).

[0026] Figure 6 illustrates another perspective view of an embodiment of the directing device (2) of the present invention, illustrating the linear movement of the selector flaps (4) along the track (3), guiding a direction of the air flow.

[0027] Figures 7a, 7b and 7c show embodiments of the airflow orientation positions provided by the selector flaps (4).

[0028] Figure 8 shows a view of an embodiment of the interior of the vehicle, being a passenger saloon, illustrating the positioning of the parcel rack (10) along the length of the vehicle.

[0029] Figure 9 shows a perspective view of an embodiment of the steering device (2), illustrating the selector flap (4) slidably associated with the rail (3) and associated with the ventilation structure (1) provided with openings (13).

[0030] Figure 10 shows a perspective view of the embodiment of the steering device (2) of figure 9, highlighting the selector tab (4) associated with the rail (3) and comprising symmetrical geometry compatible with the structure of the parcel carrier (10), as well as illustrating the air outlets (60) of the parcel carrier (10).

[0031] Figures 11 a and 11 b show a bottom perspective view of an embodiment of the parcel carrier (10), illustrating the positions of the selector tab (4) and the slit (70).

[0032] Figures 12a and 12b illustrate a simulation of the sliding movement of the selector tab (4), with the selector tab (4) in the central position in figure 12a and the selector tab (4) in the left position in figure 12b.

[0033] Figure 13 shows a numerical simulation on the speeds of air flow, on the left with respect to the air outlets (60) of the first distribution chamber (40) and on the right with respect to the individual directors of the second distribution chamber (50).

[0034]

[0035]

[0036] Detailed Description of the Invention

[0037] The following descriptions are presented by way of example and are not limitative of the scope of the invention and will make the subject matter of this patent application more clearly understood.

[0038] Public transportation vehicles or passenger transport vehicles, such as buses, double-decker buses, minibuses, vans, etc., commonly have a temperature distribution that varies throughout the vehicle's interior, particularly in the rear of rear-wheel drive vehicles. Furthermore, undesirable temperature differences are caused by the heat load generated by the variable number of passengers, sunlight through the windows, the opening of individual air vents at each seat, etc.

[0039] In this sense, the present invention proposes a solution related to a directing device that standardizes the internal temperature of the vehicle based on a geometric arrangement designed to solve all these technical problems, having a simplified, efficient and easy to manufacture / assemble structure.

[0040] Thus, a first object of the invention is a system for homogenizing the temperature inside a passenger transport vehicle, in which the system comprises at least one ventilation structure (1) positioned in a parcel rack (10) arranged along the length of the vehicle, in which the ventilation structure (1) comprises a front ventilation device (11) and a rear ventilation device (12).

[0041] In one embodiment, the front (11) and rear (12) ventilation devices direct the circulation of air inside the vehicle by means of a directing device (2) associated with the parcel rack (10) and configured to guide the direction of the air flow that passes through the front (11) and rear (12) ventilation devices relatively in function of at least one thermal parameter of an internal region of the vehicle.

[0042] In one embodiment, the ventilation structure (1) is connected to at least one air duct (30) of the vehicle, through which the air flow from an air conditioning unit (20) flows to the interior of the vehicle, wherein the air duct (30) is associated within the parcel rack (10) of the vehicle. In one embodiment, the air ducts (30) are formed in the parcel rack (10) of the vehicle.

[0043] In one embodiment, the air conditioning unit (20) is an air conditioning unit installed in the upper external region of the vehicle body, which is connected to the air ducts (30) for air circulation inside the vehicle.

[0044] Additionally, in one embodiment, the directing device (2) is connected to the air ducts arranged in the vehicle's parcel rack (10). Thus, the air conditioning unit (20) connects to the ducts inside the vehicle, providing a flow of air-conditioned / conditioned air.

[0045] In this sense, the general concept of the invention involves the use of a directing device (2) that concentrates the air flow in a preferential direction towards a specific internal region of the vehicle. Thus, the present invention can be associated with the vehicle's air duct regardless of the model of the air conditioning unit (20).

[0046] In an additional embodiment, the air supplied by the air conditioning unit (20) is configured at a temperature, flow rate and speed suitable for achieving the homogenization of comfortable temperatures throughout the interior of the vehicle promoted by the present invention.

[0047] Thus, in one embodiment, so that the supplied air enters the internal region of the vehicle in a targeted and uniform manner, the ventilation device The front ventilation device (11) and the rear ventilation device (12) comprise at least one opening (13) aligned: a. with at least one air inlet of the air duct (30); b. with at least one air outlet of the air duct (30); c. between at least one air inlet and one air outlet of the air duct (30); and / or d. with a combination thereof.

[0048] In one embodiment, the front ventilation device (11) and the rear ventilation device (12) are associated with the parcel rack (10) of the vehicle. Further, in one embodiment, the direction device (2) is associated with the front ventilation device (11) and the rear ventilation device (12).

[0049] In one embodiment, for directing the air flow, the directing device (2) is provided with at least one rail (3) arranged parallel to the front ventilation device (11) and the rear ventilation device (12).

[0050] Further, in one embodiment, the directing device (2) comprises at least one selector tab (4), which is associated with the rail (3) by means of a sliding mechanism, so that the selector tab (4) is positioned orthogonally to the openings (13) of the front (11) and rear (12) ventilation devices. Thus, in one embodiment, the sliding mechanism slides linearly along the length of the rail (3) and, consequently, moves and positions the selector tab (4) in an air flow directing position.

[0051] Thus, the selector flaps (4) have positions that direct the air flow to a specific internal region of the vehicle, in which the air flow passes through the openings (13) of the front (11) and rear (12) ventilation devices and is directed by the selector flaps (4). In this sense, in one embodiment, the selector flaps (4) select the number of openings (13) of the front (11) and rear (12) ventilation devices to direct the flow of air to the front, rear and / or wheelbase (central) region of the vehicle's interior, that is, the air flow that comes from the air conditioning unit (20), which is blown through the air ducts (30) and which passes through the openings (13), is directed by the selector flaps (4) to a specific internal region of the vehicle.

[0052] In one embodiment, so that the selector flaps (4) direct the air flow in an optimized and precise manner, which allows the homogenization of temperatures inside the vehicle, the selector flap (4) is configured with specific and adapted geometry, comprising: a. sliding fitting geometry (4.1) to the rail (3) which allows linear sliding along the rail (3); and b. profile geometry symmetrical to the internal part of the parcel rack (10), configured to fit in at least one air flow direction position passing through the openings (13).

[0053] In this way, the sliding fitting geometry (4.1) of the selector tab (4) to the rail (3) allows the sliding / movement of the selector tab (4) along the length of the rail (3) and the symmetrical profile geometry of the selector tab (4) to the internal part of the parcel rack (10) allows the sliding fitting to the profile geometry of the internal part of the parcel rack (10), in order to direct the air flow that comes out through the openings (13) to the front, central (between the axles) and / or rear part of the vehicle.

[0054] In one embodiment, the present temperature homogenization system comprises a controller communicating with the sliding mechanism, which automatically or manually activates the sliding mechanism of the selector flaps (4), based on at least one thermal parameter of the internal region of the vehicle.

[0055] In one embodiment, the system is provided with a thermal parameter reading module associated with the vehicle, said module being in communication with the controller of the steering device (2) which, consequently, activates the selector flaps (4) of the steering device (2). For this, the steering device (2) is associated with the air duct (30), through which the air flow flows. air from the air conditioning unit (20) to the vehicle's interior. From this, the directing device (2) selects a direction to divert the air flow to a specific internal region of the vehicle. Thus, the directing device (2) directs the direction of the air flows to the specific internal region of the vehicle, based on the thermal parameters read. In this way, the directing device (2) directs a greater concentration of air flow to internal regions that present higher or lower temperatures or thermal demands, achieving homogeneous temperatures inside the vehicle.

[0056] In one embodiment, the system comprises a thermal parameter reading module for each internal region of the vehicle (front, wheelbase, and rear), such that the directing device (2) diverts the air flow to the internal region with the greatest thermal demand (heating or cooling). In one embodiment, the thermal parameter reading module detects the region with the greatest temperature difference in relation to the external temperature of the vehicle among: the rear, front, or wheelbase (center) region, the region closest to the air conditioning unit (20) or the duct outlets in the parcel rack (10), the restroom environment, among others. In another embodiment, the system has a thermal parameter reading module for each vehicle seat, such that the directing device (2) diverts the air flow towards the seat.

[0057] Furthermore, the thermal parameter read is directly or indirectly related to the temperature of at least one internal region of the vehicle. In one embodiment, the thermal parameter is the temperature in the internal region itself, read in real time. In another embodiment, the thermal parameter is a measure of temperature trends, such as the mean, median, or mode, calculated over a period of time. Thus, in one embodiment, the thermal parameter reading module is a temperature sensor associated with the internal region of the vehicle.

[0058] Furthermore, in one embodiment, the thermal parameter is indirectly linked to the temperature when considering other thermal load factors, such as example, location of the vehicle's engine, number and distribution of passengers, individual open / closed directors over each seat, as well as incidence of sunlight related to the route, time of journey and weather conditions.

[0059] In this sense, in one embodiment, the admission of air flows into the parcel carrier (10) is carried out through the pipes (9) connected between the blowers and the openings (13) of the front (11) and rear (12) ventilation devices. With the directing device (2) arranged next to the pipes (9) connected to the air duct (30), the controller activates the sliding mechanism to move the selector flap (4), guiding a direction of the air flow.

[0060] Therefore, the invention also includes a directing device (2) independent of the air conditioning unit (20), in which the directing device (2) is installed in the vehicle during its manufacture or even after its manufacture, the directing device (2) being a kit for homogenizing temperatures inside passenger transport vehicles.

[0061] In one embodiment, the directing device (2) comprises a selector tab (4) associated with a rail (3) by means of a sliding mechanism, the sliding mechanism sliding linearly along the length of the rail (3) to orient the direction of the air flow relatively as a function of at least one thermal parameter of the internal region of the vehicle.

[0062] In one embodiment, the selector tab (4) is configured to present: sliding engagement geometry (4.1) to the rail, which allows linear displacement along the rail (3); and profile geometry symmetrical to the package carrier structure (10) for sliding engagement in at least one air flow direction position.

[0063] In one embodiment, the symmetrical profile geometry of the selector tab (4) allows the tab (4) to slide along the rail (3) while being positioned together to the internal surface of the parcel rack (10) on which the selector flap (4) is positioned, that is, the geometry of the selector flap (4) provides a larger area of ​​contact with the air flow and a minimum area of ​​space between the selector flap (4) and the parcel rack, directing the air efficiently and in an optimized manner to homogenize the temperatures inside the vehicle.

[0064] To this end, the steering device (2) comprises a controller that receives and processes thermal parameters detected by a thermal parameter reading module communicating with the controller. In one embodiment, the thermal parameter reading module comprises a temperature sensor arranged in each row of seats in the vehicle's passenger compartment. Thus, the controller activates the sliding mechanism of the selector flaps (4) based on the thermal parameters sent by the thermal parameter reading module.

[0065] Additionally, in one embodiment, the directing device (2) is connected to the air duct (30) arranged in a parcel rack (10) of the vehicle. In this way, the air conditioning unit (20) pumps air-conditioned / conditioned air flows into the interior of the vehicle by means of blowers. The air flows are then distributed throughout the interior of the vehicle by means of said air ducts (30) formed in the parcel rack (10). To achieve temperature homogenization within the vehicle, the selector flaps (4) of the directing device (2) are positioned by the sliding mechanism, aiming to redirect the flows to certain internal regions of the vehicle, based on the thermal parameters processed by the controller.

[0066] Furthermore, in one embodiment, the directing device (2) is associated with the parcel carrier (10) by means of a ventilation structure (1) formed by a front ventilation device (11) and a rear ventilation device (12). Said front (11) and rear (12) ventilation devices each comprise openings (13) aligned: a. with at least one air inlet of the air duct (30), wherein the directing device (2) diverts the air flows at the inlet of the air duct (30); b. with at least one air outlet of the duct (30), in which the directing device (2) diverts the air flows at the outlet of the duct (30); c. between at least one air inlet and one air outlet of the air duct (30); and / or d. with a combination between them.

[0067] In one embodiment, the selector flaps (4) are supported by the front (11) and rear (12) ventilation devices and are positioned orthogonally to the openings (13).

[0068] Furthermore, the sliding mechanism comprises an actuator (6) driven by means of a controller communicating with the mechanism. In one embodiment, the actuator (6) is a stepper motor connected to the rail (3), through which the selector flaps (4) move when the actuator (6) is actuated. In one embodiment, the actuator (6) is fixed perpendicularly to the arrangement of the rail (3), the rail (3) being a belt system for the linear movement of the selector flaps (4).

[0069] In a second object, the present invention presents a process for assembling a temperature homogenization system in a passenger transport vehicle comprising the steps of: a. associating at least one ventilation structure (1) in a parcel rack (10) of the vehicle, being positioned along the length of the vehicle, in which the ventilation structure (1) is formed by a front ventilation device (11) and a rear ventilation device (12) provided with a plurality of openings (13); and b. associating a directing device (2) to the parcel rack (10), the directing device (2) being communicating with the front ventilation device (11) and the rear ventilation device (12); - in which the directing device (2) is configured to guide the direction of the air flow passing through the front (11) and rear (12) ventilation devices relatively according to at least one thermal parameter of an internal region of the vehicle.

[0070] In one embodiment, the assembly process additionally comprises the steps of: a. associating the ventilation structure (1) in at least one air duct (30) of the parcel rack (10) of the vehicle connected to an air conditioning unit (20); and b. associating at least one rail (3) in the front ventilation device (11) and in the rear ventilation device (12), being arranged parallel to the front ventilation device (11) and the rear ventilation device (12).

[0071] In one embodiment, the air duct (30) of the vehicle is positioned in the parcel rack (10) of the vehicle, so that the ventilation structure (1) is associated with the parcel rack (10).

[0072] In one embodiment, the assembly process additionally comprises the step of associating at least one selector tab (4) in a sliding mechanism, wherein said sliding mechanism is connected to the rail (3), and wherein the selector tab (4) is positioned orthogonally to the opening (13) of the front (11) and rear (12) ventilation devices.

[0073] In one embodiment, in view of the geometric configuration of the components of the homogenization system of the present invention, said components can be associated with the parcel racks of different models of public transport vehicles, such as buses, minibuses, articulated buses, single or double-decker buses, vans, etc. Furthermore, it can also be applied to trains, wagons, airplanes, or any other vehicle that has an internal air circulation system.

[0074] In one embodiment, the said associations are carried out through of non-permanent elements, such as, but not limited to, screws, nuts, rivets, etc.

[0075] In one embodiment, the selector tab (4) is manufactured with: a. sliding engagement geometry (4.1) to the rail (3) that allows linear sliding along the rail (3); and b. symmetrical profile geometry to the inside of the parcel carrier (10), configured to engage in at least one air flow direction position passing through the openings (13).

[0076] In one embodiment, the compatible geometry of the selector tab (4) with the internal part of the parcel carrier (10) allows symmetrical fitting of the profile of the selector tab (4) with the profile of the parcel carrier (10), preventing the passage of air in the gaps between the selector tabs (4) and the internal surfaces of the parcel carrier (10), directing the air flow in an optimized and efficient manner.

[0077] In a third object, the present invention presents a passenger transport vehicle comprising an air duct (30) connected to an air conditioning unit (20), which comprises a temperature homogenization system comprising at least one ventilation structure (1) positioned in a parcel rack (10) arranged along the length of the vehicle, the ventilation structure (1) comprising a front ventilation device (11) and a rear ventilation device (12), which direct the air circulation inside the vehicle by means of a directing device (2) associated with the parcel rack (10) configured to guide the direction of the air flow that passes through the front (11) and rear (12) ventilation devices relatively as a function of at least one thermal parameter of an internal region of the vehicle.

[0078] In one embodiment, the vehicle is a bus, minibus, articulated bus, van, etc. In one embodiment, the vehicle is a single- or double-decker highway bus.

[0079] In one embodiment, the steering device (2) is as defined above. Furthermore, the vehicle has a distribution of devices directors (2) associated with the parcel rack (10) on each side of the vehicle, as well as comprising a plurality of modules for reading thermal parameters, being associated with internal regions of the vehicle. In one embodiment, each pair of seats comprises a module for reading thermal parameters.

[0080] Thus, the present invention allows the equalization of temperatures inside the vehicle, promoting comfort to passengers and optimizing the efficiency of the air conditioning unit (20). Such advantages are due to the action of the directing device (2) that selects outlet openings (13) of the ducts (30) in the parcel racks (10) to redirect the air flows to internal regions of the vehicle, where there is a higher / lower temperature or greater thermal load due to the concentration of passengers, position of the vehicle engine, solar radiation input, etc.

[0081] Furthermore, in one embodiment, the directing device (2) is associated with the parcel carrier (10) and positioned between at least one pipe (9) of the air conditioning unit (20) and an air outlet (60) of the parcel carrier (10). In a further embodiment, the directing device (2) is associated with a first distribution chamber (40) of the parcel carrier (10), which has fluid communication with a second distribution chamber (50) of the parcel carrier (10) through a perforated wall. In one embodiment, the second chamber (50) has air outlets via individual directing devices arranged on the seats.

[0082] With this, the position of the directing device (2) selects a number of air outlet openings (13) from the parcel rack (10), these openings being connected to the air outlet (60) of the first chamber (40) and with the second chamber (50), which receive air flows being redirected to a specific internal region of the vehicle.

[0083] The examples shown here are intended only to exemplify one of the numerous ways of carrying out the invention, without, however, limiting its scope. Example 1 - Temperature homogenization system in the bus passenger lounge

[0084] In this example, a temperature homogenization system was developed inside a passenger transport vehicle, especially a single or double-decker bus, where the system has a selective directing device (2) that directs the flow of air conditioning coming from the vehicle's air conditioning unit (20) to the front, rear or wheelbase region of the passenger compartment, with the aim of standardizing the temperature of the compartment, in response to temperatures detected inside the compartment.

[0085] As illustrated in Figure 1, the air coming from the air conditioning unit (20) is distributed along the length of the vehicle through air ducts (30) arranged on both sides of the vehicle, in which such air ducts (30) are associated with the vehicle's parcel rack (10). However, this distribution of the cooled air flow alone is not necessarily capable of achieving homogeneous temperature distribution throughout the passenger compartment, so the present system developed in this example promotes complete temperature homogenization and adequately distributes the air-conditioned air throughout the passenger compartment, aiming to provide greater comfort to passengers by establishing a common temperature, anticipating the different thermal loads to which the bus is subjected.

[0086] In figure 2, the parcel rack (10) is illustrated, having six pipes (9) that admit the flows of cooled air and blown by blowers arranged on the side of the vehicle and next to the roof of the vehicle with the air conditioning unit (20). In figure 3, a cross-sectional view of the parcel rack (10) is illustrated, having a first distribution chamber (40) that receives the air flows coming from the pipes (9) to distribute the air to the interior of the vehicle through air outlets (60). In addition, the first distribution chamber (40) has a hollow wall as shown in figure 4 for communication with a second distribution chamber (50) provided with individual directors on the seats.

[0087] Thus, in order to solve the problems of the prior art, a ventilation structure (1) is associated with the parcel carrier (10) and the air ducts (30). The ventilation structure (1) is formed by a front ventilation device (11) and a rear ventilation device (12), as illustrated in figures 4, 5 and 6. Each of the front (11) and rear (12) ventilation devices are provided with a plurality of openings (13), which are aligned with the inlets of the air duct (30), with the outlets of the duct (30), or both.

[0088] From this, the developed guiding device (2) is positioned inside the package holder (10) and on the internal surfaces of the first distribution chamber (40) of the package holder (10).

[0089] Thus, as illustrated in figures 5 and 6, the directing device (2) is associated with the front (11) and rear (12) ventilation devices. Furthermore, the device (2) has a rail (3) arranged parallel to the front (11) and rear (12) ventilation devices. Furthermore, the directing device (2) has selector tabs (4) associated with the rail (3) by means of a sliding mechanism (4.1), which causes the selector tabs (4) to slide linearly along the length of the rail (3), so that the selector tabs (4) are positioned orthogonally to the openings (13) of the front (11) and rear (12) ventilation devices.

[0090] In this way, the developed selector flaps (4) have a profile geometry symmetrical to the first distribution chamber (40) of the package holder (10) or symmetrical to the geometry of the package holder (10), and have a sheet format with a periphery compatible for fitting to the profile of the first distribution chamber (40) or to the profile of the package holder (10). Furthermore, in this example, the geometric configuration of the selector flap (4) presents a slit (4.2), through which the rail (3) is crossed and associated, two supports (4.3) arranged one above the slit (4.2) and the other below the slit (4.2) and a projection (4.4) that extends from the slot (4.2), with the supports (4.3) and the projection (4.4) having a geometry compatible for fitting to the first chamber (40) or the parcel holder (10). Furthermore, the selector flaps (4) are surrounded by a sealing element that prevents the passage of air in the gaps between the selector flaps (4) and the internal surfaces of the first distribution chamber (40) or the internal surfaces of the parcel holder (10).

[0091] Still in figure 6, the sliding mechanism of the steering device (2) has a belt (7) for moving the selector flaps (4), in a linear manner and parallel to the openings (13). For this, a motor (6) is arranged perpendicular to the belt (7). Otherwise, the motor (6) is arranged co-linearly in the direction of the belt (6) in order not to restrict the reach of the selector flaps (4).

[0092] In any case, the linear movement of the selector flaps (4), arranged perpendicularly to the openings (13), presents a more efficient behavior for the redirection of the air flow, since the angular movement of flaps over air outlets, shown in state-of-the-art systems, causes shock waves in the chamber, in addition to loss of temperature homogenization performance.

[0093] Furthermore, the sliding mechanism communicates with a controller, which automatically or manually activates the sliding mechanism of the selector flaps (4), based on at least one temperature detected in the interior region of the vehicle. The temperatures are detected by temperature sensors distributed throughout the vehicle, which feed the controller to direct the air flow through the selector flaps (4). Thus, based on the detected temperature data, the controller controls the directing device (2), in order to move the selector flaps (4) linearly along the length of the track (3) to guide the direction of the air flows to a certain region of the passenger compartment. Thus, the directing device (2) allocates a greater concentration of air flow to internal regions of the compartment that present a higher temperature or thermal demand, achieving homogenization of temperatures inside the vehicle.

[0094] Furthermore, figures 7a, 7b and 7c exemplify the air flow orientation positions of the selector flaps (4), in order to select the number of openings (13) for air outlet, redirecting the air flow to the front, rear or central region (between axles) of the vehicle's passenger compartment.

[0095] Figure 7a illustrates a position (3 / 3) of the selector flap (4), so that the selector flap (4) in the centered position does not interfere with the direction of the air flows, which follow equally to the internal regions of the passenger compartment. Figure 7b shows a position (2 / 4) of the selector flap (4) arranged further to the left, stopping the flow supply in the first two openings (13) of the front ventilation device (1 1 ) and providing flow in the other openings (13), directing the flow to the three openings (13) of the rear ventilation device (12) and to one opening (13) of the front ventilation device (1 1 ), to redirect flows to the rear region of the bus.Figure 7c shows a position (4 / 2) of the selector flap (4) arranged further to the right, stopping flow supply in the last two openings (13) of the rear ventilation device (12) and providing flow in the remaining openings (13), directing the flow to the three openings (13) of the front ventilation device (11) and to one opening (13) of the rear ventilation device (12), to redirect flows to the front region of the bus passenger compartment.

[0096] Thus, the present invention provides for the homogenization of temperatures inside the passenger compartment, as shown in Figure 8, so that the selector flaps (4) of the directing device (2) operate according to thermal demand based on the passenger compartment temperatures, managing air flows to achieve temperature homogenization. In this example, the bus has 6 selector flaps (4) arranged on each side of the bus, in addition to temperature sensors distributed throughout the vehicle's interior. For illustrative purposes without restricting the scope of the invention, the sensor is positioned near the outlets (60) of the first distribution chamber (40). Otherwise, the sensor captures the temperature of each seat in the compartment.

[0097] Figures 9 and 10 show an embodiment of the selector flap (4) arranged inside the first distribution chamber (40), so that the ventilation structure (1), being provided with the openings (13), also supports the selector flaps (4) and the belt (7) with the motor (6) of the rail (3).

[0098] Figures 11 a and 11 b show a bottom view of the parcel carrier (10), highlighting the different positions of the selector tab (4) to direct the air flows passing through the slit (70).

[0099] Figures 12a and 12b show a simulation of the positioning of the selector flaps (4). In figure 12a, the centralized positioning of the selector flap (4) is equivalent to the positioning of the selector flap (4) in figure 7a, which shows a (3 / 3) position of the selector flap (4), so that the selector flap (4) in the centralized position does not interfere with the direction of the air flows, which follow the same way to the internal regions of the passenger compartment. Figure 12b shows the leftmost positioning of the selector tab (4) which is equivalent to the positioning of the selector tab (4) in figure 7b, which stops the flow supply in the first two openings (13) of the front ventilation device (11) and providing flow in the other openings (13), directing the flow to the three openings (13) of the rear ventilation device (12) and to one opening (13) of the front ventilation device (11), to redirect flows to the rear region of the bus.

[0100] Thus, figure 13 shows a test of the redirection of flows through the analysis of velocities (in m / s) varying between 0 and 10 m / s for the air outlets of the first distribution chamber (40) as shown in the images on the left; and varying between 0 and 3 m / s on the air outlets of the individual directors of the second distribution chamber (50) as shown in the images on the right. In each row with the pair of images side by side, the analysis is presented for the original duct, for the duct in the (3 / 3) position of the selector flap (4) and for the duct in the (4 / 2) position of the selector flap (4). Thus, the last figure on the right illustrates a proof of concept of the invention, in which there is a higher air flow velocity in the individual directors arranged in the front region of the vehicle than in the front region of the vehicle. than those located in the rear and wheelbase of the vehicle.

[0101] Furthermore, Table 1 below shows a comparison between the air distribution installation commonly employed in the state of the art (above) and an installation with the directing device (2) developed in the present example with respect to the variation of speeds (m / s) on the left side (LE) of the bus of the present invention (below).

[0102] Table 1 - Comparison between Temperature Distribution in the Prior Art and in an Example of the Present Invention

[0103] As can be seen in Table 1, the installation of the prior art results in a completely irregular distribution of airflow velocities along the bus seats, resulting in a large variation in velocities between one seat and another. In the system of the present example, the variations in airflow velocities between the seats are significantly smaller than in the prior art, considering the three positions 1 / 5, 3 / 3 and 5 / 1 of the selector flaps (4), resulting in a better distribution of velocities and, consequently, in a better and optimized homogenization of the airflow in the passenger compartment.

[0104] Those skilled in the art will appreciate the knowledge presented herein and will be able to reproduce the invention in the presented embodiments and in other variants and alternatives, covered by the scope of the following claims.

Claims

Claims 1. System for homogenizing temperatures inside a passenger transport vehicle, characterized by comprising at least one ventilation structure (1) positioned in a parcel rack (10) arranged along the length of the vehicle, in which the ventilation structure (1) comprises a front ventilation device (11) and a rear ventilation device (12), in which the front (11) and rear (12) ventilation devices direct the circulation of air inside the vehicle by means of a directing device (2) associated with the parcel rack (10) and configured to guide the direction of the air flow that passes through the front (11) and rear (12) ventilation devices relatively in function of at least one thermal parameter of an internal region of the vehicle.

2. Temperature homogenization system inside a passenger transport vehicle, according to claim 1, characterized in that the ventilation structure (1) is connected to at least one air duct (30) of the vehicle, through which the air flow from an air conditioning unit (20) flows to the interior of the vehicle, in which the air duct (30) is associated with the vehicle's parcel rack (10).

3. Temperature homogenization system inside a passenger transport vehicle, according to claim 1, characterized in that the front ventilation device (11) and the rear ventilation device (12) comprise at least one opening (13) aligned: a. with at least one air inlet of the air duct (30); b. with at least one air outlet of the air duct (30); c. between at least one air inlet and one air outlet of the air duct (30); and / or d. with a combination thereof.

4. Temperature homogenization system inside a passenger transport vehicle, according to any one of claims 1 to 4. 3, characterized in that the directing device (2) comprises: at least one rail (3) arranged parallel to the front ventilation device (11) and the rear ventilation device (12); and at least one selector tab (4) associated with the rail (3) by means of a sliding mechanism that slides linearly along the length of the rail (3), wherein the selector tab (4) is positioned orthogonally to the opening (13) of the front (11) and rear (12) ventilation devices.

5. Temperature homogenization system inside a passenger transport vehicle, according to claim 4, characterized in that the selector tab (4) comprises: a. sliding fitting geometry (4.1) to the rail (3) that allows linear sliding along the rail (3); and b. profile geometry symmetrical to the internal part of the parcel carrier (10), configured to fit in at least one air flow direction position that passes through the openings (13).

6. Temperature homogenization system inside a passenger transport vehicle, according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that it comprises a controller communicating with the sliding mechanism (6), which activates the sliding mechanism (6) of at least one selector flap (4) along the rail (3), based on at least one thermal parameter of an internal region of the vehicle, in which the controller is communicating with at least one thermal parameter reading module associated with the vehicle.

7. Process for assembling a temperature homogenization system in a passenger transport vehicle, characterized by comprising the steps of: a. associating at least one ventilation structure (1) in a parcel rack (10) of the vehicle, being positioned along the length of the vehicle, in which the ventilation structure (1) is formed by a front ventilation device (1 1) and a rear ventilation device (12) provided with a plurality of openings (13); and b. association of a directing device (2) with the parcel carrier (10), the directing device (2) being communicating with the front ventilation device (11) and the rear ventilation device (12); - in which the directing device (2) is configured to guide the direction of the air flow passing through the front (11) and rear (12) ventilation devices relatively in function of at least one thermal parameter of an internal region of the vehicle.

8. Assembly process, according to claim 7, characterized by additionally comprising the steps of: a. associating the ventilation structure (1) in at least one air duct (30) of the parcel rack (10) of the vehicle connected to an air conditioning unit (20); and b. associating at least one rail (3) in the front ventilation device (11) and in the rear ventilation device (12), being arranged parallel in relation to the front ventilation device (11) and to the rear ventilation device (12).

9. Assembly method according to claim 7 or 8, characterized in that it additionally comprises the step of associating at least one selector tab (4) in a sliding mechanism (6), in which said sliding mechanism (6) is connected to the rail (3), and in which the selector tab (4) is positioned orthogonally to the opening (13) of the front (11) and rear (12) ventilation devices, so that the selector tab (4) is manufactured with: a. sliding engagement geometry (4.1) to the rail (3) that allows longitudinal sliding along the rail (3); and b. profile geometry symmetrical to the internal part of the parcel carrier (10), configured to engage in at least one position of direction of air flow passing through the openings (13).

10. Passenger transport vehicle comprising an air duct connected to an air conditioning unit (20) characterized by comprising a temperature homogenization system, which comprises at least one ventilation structure (1) positioned in a parcel rack (10) arranged along the length of the vehicle, the ventilation structure (1) comprising a front ventilation device (11) and a rear ventilation device (12), which direct the air circulation inside the vehicle by means of a directing device (2) associated with the parcel rack (10) configured to guide the direction of the air flow that passes through the front (11) and rear (12) ventilation devices relatively as a function of at least one thermal parameter of an internal region of the vehicle.

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