Topper comprising planar heating pad

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a topper and, specifically, to a topper comprising a planar heating pad.

Description

Topper with face heating pad

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a topper, and more particularly to a topper including a surface heating pad.

[0002]

[0003] The material described in this section merely provides background information for the present disclosure and does not constitute prior art.

[0004] Heated mats, intended for use on beds or floors, can be broadly categorized into electric mats and hot water mats. Electric mats provide warmth to the user by energizing wires distributed throughout the mat. Hot water mats, on the other hand, heat water using a boiler, circulating it through hot water pipes distributed throughout the mat, providing a warm sensation. These heated mats inevitably require the use of heating wires or hot water pipes throughout the mat to provide warmth. This can result in a user experiencing a foreign sensation when using the heated mat, which can lead to a decrease in comfort.

[0005] To solve this, if the cover that comes into direct contact with the user is made thick, the user experience may improve, but there is a problem of reduced thermal efficiency.

[0006] Furthermore, conventional heated mats, especially electric mats, have built-in heating wires that users lie on. Over extended periods, the user's weight can cause the heating wires to bend, potentially causing them to short-circuit or break. If left untreated, these problems can lead to fires.

[0007] Additionally, the area where the upper and lower covers of the mat can be bonded by the heating wires or hot water pipes is reduced. This results in the heating wires or hot water pipes not being tightly spaced, or the heating mat must include additional non-heating bonding surfaces to ensure sufficient bonding between the upper and lower covers. Consequently, the unheated area increases relative to the total area, resulting in lower overall thermal efficiency.

[0008] In addition, according to literature such as KR 10-2024-0025231 A, conventional hot and cold mats have a disadvantage in that they are difficult to use as general mats because they do not have a configuration that can separate or store the wires extending out of the mat.

[0009] Additionally, in the case of a heated mat that can be independently controlled by zone, there is a problem of low user convenience because the number of power connectors is equal to the number of independently controlled zones.

[0010] In addition, with the recent increase in single-person households, the demand for heating mats suitable for single-user use is increasing, but this is not being sufficiently considered.

[0011]

[0012] Accordingly, the present disclosure aims to provide a topper that can provide an appropriate heating function while minimizing the foreign sensation caused by a heating wire or a hot water pipe.

[0013] In addition, the present disclosure aims to provide a topper that can prevent breakdown and fire accidents due to heat wire damage resulting from long-term use.

[0014] In addition, the present disclosure aims to provide a topper having a heating function that can provide a soft wearing feeling while also providing appropriate support to the user.

[0015] In addition, the present disclosure aims to provide a topper capable of heating to a user's desired temperature in a short period of time.

[0016] In addition, the present disclosure aims to provide a topper that can be used like a general topper when the heating function is not in use.

[0017] In addition, the present disclosure aims to provide a topper that can independently control each zone with only a single connector.

[0018] Additionally, the present disclosure aims to provide a topper suitable for use by a single user.

[0019] The problems to be solved by the present invention are not limited to the problems mentioned above, and other problems not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description below.

[0020]

[0021] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a topper is provided, comprising: a planar heating element including a plurality of wires, the temperature of which increases when power is applied to the plurality of wires; a cover covering an outer surface of the planar heating element; and a connector at least partially disposed inside the cover and electrically connected to the plurality of wires; wherein the planar heating element includes: an upper foam at least partially formed in an open cell structure, at least partially formed of an elastic material; a lower foam disposed below the upper foam, at least partially formed in a closed cell structure, at least partially formed of an elastic material; and a planar heating pad including a plurality of through holes at least partially disposed between the upper foam and the lower foam, the through holes being formed such that at least a portion of a lower surface of the upper foam and at least a portion of an upper surface of the lower foam are in contact with each other.

[0022] In addition, preferably, the surface heating pad according to one embodiment of the present disclosure includes a plurality of wires arranged along the longitudinal direction at each of both sides.

[0023] In addition, preferably, the cover according to one embodiment of the present disclosure includes a cushion portion disposed on the upper side of the upper foam, and further includes an internal foam provided inside the cover and positioned on the lower side of the surface heating element.

[0024] In addition, preferably, the connector according to one embodiment of the present disclosure further includes an inner connector disposed on the built-in form inside the cover and electrically connected to the plurality of wires, an outer connector configured to be detachably attached to the inner connector, and an inner connector fixing holder disposed between the cover and the upper form, wherein the inner connector includes an upper case disposed on the lower surface of the lower form, coupled to the inner connector fixing holder, and having one end electrically connected to the plurality of wires; a lower case configured to be coupled to the upper case and form an accommodation space therein; and a connection terminal pin disposed inside the accommodation space and electrically connecting the plurality of wires and a connection portion of the outer connector.

[0025] In addition, preferably, the surface heating pad according to one embodiment of the present disclosure further includes a stepped portion that is formed to protrude along the length direction from one end of the surface heating pad and is bent downward, and the lower form includes a slit that is formed by cutting inward from one side, and the stepped portion passes through the slit, and an end of the stepped portion is disposed below the lower form.

[0026] In addition, preferably, the inner connector fixing holder according to one embodiment of the present disclosure includes a plurality of first through holes, the upper form includes a plurality of second through holes, the lower form includes a plurality of third through holes, the plurality of first through holes to the plurality of third through holes are formed to be aligned in a single row, the upper case includes a plurality of engaging protrusions protruding from the upper surface of the upper case, and the plurality of first through holes to the plurality of third through holes are engaged with the plurality of engaging protrusions.

[0027] In addition, preferably, the external connector according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is configured to be inserted into the receiving space inside the cover, and the cover includes a cut portion formed on a side and configured to insert the external connector, and two zippers provided at both ends of the cut portion.

[0028] Also, preferably, the surface heating pad according to one embodiment of the present disclosure includes a plurality of zones to which power is independently applied, and the plurality of wires include a first wire configured to supply power to at least some of the zones of the plurality of zones and one or more wires configured to supply power to each of the zones supplied by the first wire.

[0029] In addition, preferably, the plurality of zones according to one embodiment of the present disclosure are configured in two rows, one of the two rows is connected to a plurality of wires arranged at one of the two side ends, and the other of the two rows is connected to a plurality of wires arranged at the other of the two side ends.

[0030] In addition, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure, the plurality of zones are configured in two rows, and the plurality of wires arranged at one of the two side ends and the plurality of wires arranged at the other of the two side ends are branched from the central portion of the surface heating pad.

[0031] In addition, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure, the surface heating pad includes a plurality of zones configured in two rows, and the surface heating pad includes a plurality of wires arranged in the center of the plurality of zones along the length direction, and when power is applied to the plurality of wires, the temperature of the plurality of zones increases.

[0032] In addition, preferably, in a topper according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, an insulating part attached to the lower surface of the upper foam and an insulating part attached to the upper surface of the lower foam are heat-welded vertically from the upper and lower portions of the flat heating pad, respectively, and after each of the insulating parts is heat-welded, the upper foam and the lower foam are heat-welded to the respective insulating parts.

[0033] Additionally, preferably, the surface heating pad according to one embodiment of the present disclosure includes a conductive carbon paste region.

[0034] In addition, preferably, the present disclosure further includes a control unit configured to apply power to the plurality of wires according to one embodiment of the present disclosure; and a temperature sensor configured to sense the temperature of the surface heating pad, wherein the control unit sets a target temperature, the control unit applies maximum power to the plurality of wires, the control unit compares the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor with a preset reference temperature, and if it is determined that the sensed temperature is lower than the reference temperature, the control unit maintains the maximum power, and if it is determined that the sensed temperature is higher than the reference temperature, the control unit controls the output of the power to be lower than the maximum output, the control unit compares the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor with a target temperature, and if the sensed temperature is not equal to the target temperature, the control unit controls the output of the applied power to be higher or lower, and if it is determined that the sensed temperature is equal to the target temperature, the control unit controls the surface heating pad to maintain the temperature of the surface heating pad by maintaining the output of the applied power.

[0035] Also, preferably, a mattress assembly is provided, comprising a topper according to all embodiments of the present disclosure and a mattress configured to support the topper from below.

[0036]

[0037] As described above, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the topper uses a surface heating pad of the same thickness as a film, so that the user does not feel any discomfort due to the heating wire or hot water pipe, while at the same time providing a heating function.

[0038] In addition, since the wire portion of the topper according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is positioned on both sides, i.e., on the edge side, there is no concern about bending or wear due to the user's weight, and since the change in the resistance value of the wire is small, there is a low concern about ignition, so there is an effect that the topper can be safely used for a long period of time.

[0039] In addition, the upper foam and the lower foam of the topper according to one embodiment of the present disclosure are each composed of cells having different structures, which has the effect of providing a topper that provides a soft wearing feeling, has high thermal efficiency, and has high support.

[0040] In addition, the topper according to one embodiment of the present disclosure has an upper foam and a lower foam joined through a plurality of holes, so that the size of the surface heating pad can be maximized, thereby achieving the effect of heating to a target temperature in a shorter period of time.

[0041] In addition, the topper according to one embodiment of the present disclosure has the effect of being able to be used like a general topper, as the cover can be completely closed using a zipper when the heating function is not in use.

[0042] In addition, the topper according to another embodiment of the present disclosure has the effect of enabling independent control of both zones with only one connector.

[0043] In addition, the topper according to another embodiment of the present disclosure has the effect of being applicable not only to large sizes but also to small and medium sizes.

[0044]

[0045] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a topper according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0046] Figure 2 is an exploded perspective view of a topper according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0047] Figure 3 is an exploded perspective view of a surface heating element according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0048] FIG. 4 is a partial enlarged view of a cross-section of a topper according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0049] FIG. 5 is an enlarged exploded perspective view of a topper according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0050] FIG. 6 is a drawing for explaining a cover according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0051] FIG. 7 is a block diagram of a topper configuration according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0052] Figure 8 is a flowchart of a method using a topper according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0053] Figure 9 shows the results according to a method using a topper according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0054] FIG. 10 is for explaining a control method of a surface heating pad according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0055] Fig. 11 illustrates a surface heating pad according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0056] Fig. 12 illustrates a surface heating pad according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0057]

[0058] Hereinafter, some embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to exemplary drawings. When designating components in each drawing, it should be noted that, where possible, identical components are given identical reference numerals, even if they appear in different drawings. Furthermore, in describing the present disclosure, detailed descriptions of related known structures or functions will be omitted if they are deemed to obscure the gist of the present disclosure.

[0059] In describing components of embodiments according to the present disclosure, symbols such as first, second, i), ii), a), b) may be used. These symbols are only for distinguishing the components from other components, and the nature, order, or sequence of the components are not limited by the symbols. When a part in the specification is said to "include" or "have" a component, this does not mean that other components are excluded, but rather that other components may be included, unless explicitly stated otherwise.

[0060]

[0061] Topper Structure Description

[0062] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a topper according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. The topper (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is configured in a plate shape to be placed on a mattress (not shown). Hereinafter, the topper (1) and the mattress are referred to as a mattress assembly.

[0063]

[0064] Figure 2 is an exploded perspective view of a topper according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0065] Referring to FIG. 2, a topper (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a cover (10), a surface heating element (11), and an internal foam (12).

[0066] The cover (10) is configured to cover the outer surface of the surface heating element (11) and the built-in foam (12). Meanwhile, it should be noted that in Fig. 2, only the cushion portion (100) of the cover (10) is illustrated, and the portion surrounding the side and lower surfaces of the surface heating element (11) and the built-in foam (12) is omitted.

[0067] The surface heating element (11) includes a plurality of wires and is configured so that the temperature rises when power is applied to the plurality of wires.

[0068] The surface heating element (11) may include an upper foam (110), a lower foam (112), and a surface heating pad (115) disposed between the upper foam (110) and the lower foam (112).

[0069] The upper foam (110) may be positioned on the lower side of the cushioning portion (100) and is configured to provide a cushioning feel to the user. At least a portion of the upper foam (110) is formed with an open cell structure. Here, the open cell structure refers to a structure in which the upper and lower portions of the cell structure forming the foam are open, thereby allowing free airflow in the upper and lower directions and forming a soft material overall.

[0070] Therefore, the upper foam (110) has the advantage of being able to smoothly transfer heat generated from the surface heating pad (115) to the user located above, while providing a soft wearing feeling.

[0071] The upper foam (110) may be composed of at least a portion of an elastic material. For example, the upper foam (110) may be composed of a memory foam or PU foam material.

[0072] The lower foam (112) is positioned below the upper foam (110) and is formed with at least a portion of a closed cell structure. Here, the closed cell structure refers to a structure in which the upper and lower portions of the cells forming the foam are closed, thereby restricting the flow of air in the upper and lower directions and forming a hard material overall.

[0073] Accordingly, the lower foam (112) can prevent the heat generated from the surface heating pad (115) from being conducted downward, thereby improving the thermal efficiency of the surface heating element (11). In addition, since it is formed to be relatively hard compared to the upper foam (110), it has the advantage of providing appropriate support when using the topper (1).

[0074] The lower foam (112) provides support, but at the same time, as a component of the topper, it is necessary to provide elasticity to the user. Accordingly, at least a portion of the lower foam (112) may preferably be composed of an elastic material.

[0075] The surface heating pad (115) is formed so that at least a portion thereof is placed between the upper foam (110) and the lower foam (112). Heat generated from the surface heating pad (115) can be provided to the user through the upper foam (110) and supported by the lower foam (112).

[0076] The surface heating pad (115) can be formed to a thickness similar to that of a film. This provides the advantage that the user can utilize the heating function without feeling the unevenness of the wire when using the topper (1).

[0077] The built-in form (12) is provided inside the cover (10) and is configured to support the surface heating element (11) by being located on the lower side of the surface heating element (11).

[0078]

[0079] Figure 3 is an exploded perspective view of a surface heating element according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0080] Referring to Fig. 3, the surface heating element (11) may further include an insulating portion (111, 113). The insulating portion (111) is attached to the lower surface of the upper foam (110) to prevent current or inductance leaking from the surface heating pad (115) from being conducted to the user. In addition, the insulating portion (113) is attached to the upper surface of the lower foam (112) to prevent current or inductance from leaking from the surface heating pad (115).

[0081] In addition, the upper foam (110) and the lower foam (112) are each heat-welded to the surface heating pad (115) through the insulation (111, 113) heat-welded on the inside, so that the surface heating element (11) can be more firmly bonded.

[0082] Referring further to FIG. 3, the surface heating pad (115) may include a plurality of wires (116) and a plurality of holes (117).

[0083] The ends of the plurality of wires (116) are connected to the inner connector (13; see Fig. 4) and the outer connector (14; see Fig. 4) to receive power and transmit the received power to the surface heating pad (115). Meanwhile, the surface heating pad (115) may include a conductive carbon paste region, so that the power applied to the plurality of wires (116) is transmitted to the entire surface heating pad (115), thereby generating heat.

[0084] Preferably, a plurality of wires (116) can be arranged along the length direction of the surface heating pad (115) at both sides of the surface heating pad (115), i.e., the left end and the right end. The plurality of wires (116) arranged at the left end are configured to transmit power to the left area of ​​the surface heating pad (115), thereby allowing the left area to heat up. In addition, the plurality of wires (116) arranged at the right end are configured to transmit power to the right area of ​​the surface heating pad (115), thereby allowing the right area to heat up.

[0085] When using the topper (1), the user will lie down on the inside of the surface heating pad (115), and at this time, since multiple wires (116) are provided on both sides, the user will not lie down on the multiple wires (116). Therefore, the wires (116) may not be subjected to a load due to the user's weight, and there is no concern about bending or wear, so the topper (1) can be safely used for a long period of time. Furthermore, in contrast to the conventional heating topper or heating mattress using heating wires, there is a high risk of fire due to a change in resistance value when the heating wires are damaged during long-term use, the surface heating pad (115) according to the present disclosure has the advantage of enhanced safety as there is little change in resistance value even if some of the multiple wires (116) are damaged, or even if there is, the change is small, so there is no risk of fire.

[0086] A plurality of holes (117) are formed between a plurality of wires (116) arranged on the left end and a plurality of wires (116) arranged on the right end. The upper insulation part (111) and the lower insulation part (113) are welded through the plurality of holes (117), thereby stably fixing the upper foam (110) and the lower foam (112).

[0087] At this time, since the surface heating pad (115) is placed between the insulating parts (111, 113), the electricity generated from the surface heating pad (115) does not pass outside the insulating parts (111, 113), so that user safety can also be improved. In addition, the insulating parts (111, 113) are preferably formed in a film form, so that they may not affect the wearing comfort.

[0088] In other words, as the surface heating pad (115) is surrounded by the insulating parts (111, 113), the insulating parts (111, 113) can accurately guide the position of the surface heating pad (115) due to welding and insulate both the wire part and the heating part.

[0089] The upper foam (110) and the lower foam (112) can be joined to each other through a plurality of holes (117). Since the upper foam (110) and the lower foam (112) are joined through a plurality of holes (117) during the manufacturing stage, a separate joining surface for joining the upper foam (110) and the lower foam (112) does not need to be provided. Therefore, the size of the surface heating pad (115) can be maximized, and heating can be achieved to a desired temperature in a shorter period of time, which has the advantage of maximizing user convenience.

[0090]

[0091] FIG. 4 is a partial enlarged view of a cross-section of a topper according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0092] Referring to FIG. 4, the connection structure of the connector (13, 14) of the topper according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is described.

[0093] Referring to Fig. 4, a planar heating pad (115) is placed between the upper foam (110) and the lower foam (112), and a step portion (118) that is bent downward is formed at one end of the planar heating pad (115). As a result, one end of the planar heating pad (115) can pass through the lower foam (112) and be placed on the lower surface of the lower foam (112). At this time, the step portion (118) can pass through a slit (114; see Fig. 5) that is cut inward from one side of the lower foam (112) or near one side.

[0094] One end of the surface heating pad (115), i.e., the end of the step portion (118), is connected to the inner connector (13), and an outer connector (14) can be connected to the inner connector (13). As a result, power applied through the outer connector (14) can be sequentially transmitted to the surface heating pad (115) through the inner connector (13) and a plurality of wires (116).

[0095] The outer connector (14) is configured to be detachably attached to the inner connector (13), and is configured to be inserted from the outside of the cover (10) into the inside of the cover (10). To this end, the outer connector (14) includes a connection portion (140) and a wire (142), and is electrically and physically connected to the inner connector (13) through the connection portion (140), and can receive power from the outside through the wire (142).

[0096] Meanwhile, in one embodiment of the present disclosure, since a plurality of wires (116) are arranged on the left and right ends of the surface heating pad (115), it is preferable that both the inner connector (13) and the outer connector (14) be provided on the left and right ends of the topper (1), respectively. Accordingly, when the user uses the topper (1), the heating portion of the surface heating pad (115) can be arranged with the greatest width in the area where the user's head is located, thereby providing the effect of keeping the user's body warm as a whole. Meanwhile, the positions of the connectors (13, 14) are not limited to being provided on the left and right sides, respectively, and may be arranged in the central portion of the topper (1). This will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 11 and 12.

[0097]

[0098] FIG. 5 is an enlarged exploded perspective view of a topper according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0099] Referring to Fig. 5, the detailed configuration of the inner connector (13) is described.

[0100] The inner connector (13) is arranged inside the cover (10) and is configured to be electrically and physically connected to a plurality of wires (116). To this end, the inner connector (13) can be arranged in a connector receiving portion (120) formed in the built-in form (12). At this time, the reason why the inner connector (13) can be positioned in the built-in form (12) is because, as described above, the end of the surface heating pad (115) can pass through the slit (114) and be arranged downwardly on the lower form (112).

[0101] The inner connector (13) may include an upper case (130), a lower case (132), and a connection terminal pin (134).

[0102] The upper case (130) is placed on the lower surface of the lower form (112) and can be connected to the inner connector fixing holder (15) placed between the cushion part (100) and the upper form (110).

[0103] A plurality of holes (holes; 15h) may be formed in the inner connector fixing holder (15). In addition, a plurality of holes (110h, 112h) may be formed in each of the upper form (110) and the lower form (112). At this time, it is preferable that the plurality of holes (15h, 110h, 112h) are formed to be aligned in a single row. In addition, a plurality of coupling protrusions (130p) may be formed in the upper case (130) so as to protrude upward from the upper surface of the upper case (130).

[0104] A plurality of holes (15h, 110h, 112h) aligned in a row are combined with a plurality of coupling projections (130p), and as a result, the inner connector (13) can be fixed at a set position.

[0105] The lower case (132) is configured to be combined with the upper case (130) to form an accommodation space inside.

[0106] The connection terminal pin (134) is placed inside the receiving space formed by the upper case (130) and the lower case (132), and is configured to physically and electrically connect a plurality of wires (116) and the connection portion (140) of the external connector (14).

[0107]

[0108] FIG. 6 is a drawing for explaining a cover according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0109] Referring to FIG. 6, a cover (10) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a cutout (102). Through the cutout (102), an external connector (14) may be inserted from the outside of the cover (10) into the inside of the cover (10) (see (a) of FIG. 6).

[0110] In addition, the cover (10) may further include a zipper (104) arranged in the cut portion (102) and configured to open and close the cut portion (102). The zipper (104) is provided at both ends of the cut portion (102) and can close the cut portion (102) by moving from each end toward the center. After the connection portion (140) of the external connector (14) is completely inserted into the interior of the cover (10), only the wire (142) is pulled out of the cut portion (102). At this time, the zipper (104) can be used to close the cut portion (102) except for the portion from which the wire (142) is pulled out. As a result, the phenomenon of dust or foreign substances entering the interior of the cover (10) can be prevented (see (b) of FIG. 6).

[0111] In addition, there is an advantage in that it can be used like a general topper by completely closing the cut portion (102) using a zipper (104) when the external connector (14) is not connected, i.e. when the heating is not in use.

[0112]

[0113] Description of temperature control method using a topper

[0114] Fig. 7 is a block diagram of a topper configuration according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 8 is a flowchart of a method using a topper according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0115] Referring to FIG. 7, a topper (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may further include a control unit (16) and a temperature sensor (17).

[0116] The control unit (16) is configured to control the power connected to the surface heating pad (115). More specifically, the control unit (16) can control the power applied to a plurality of wires (116). To this end, the control unit (16) can control the surface heating pad (115) using one or more relays and FETs provided on the topper (1).

[0117] The temperature sensor (17) is provided on a part of the topper (1) and is configured to sense the temperature of the topper (1). In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the temperature sensor (17) can directly sense the temperature of the surface heating pad (115), but is not necessarily limited thereto, and can indirectly sense the temperature of the surface heating pad (115) by sensing the temperature of the cushion portion (100).

[0118] The temperature sensor (17) may preferably be an NTC thermistor, but is not necessarily limited thereto.

[0119] Hereinafter, the method by which the control unit (16) controls the temperature of the topper (1) will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 7 and 8.

[0120] The control unit (16) sets the target temperature (S800).

[0121] Here, the target temperature may be a default value or a temperature entered by the user.

[0122]

[0123] The control unit (16) applies maximum power to the surface heating pad (115) (S810).

[0124]

[0125] The temperature of the surface heating pad (115) is sensed by the temperature sensor (17), and the control unit (16) determines whether the sensed temperature is higher than the preset reference temperature (S820).

[0126] Here, the preset reference temperature may be a temperature lower than the target temperature. For example, the reference temperature may be 45°C.

[0127] If the temperature sensed in step S820 is determined to be lower than the reference temperature, the control unit (16) returns to step S810 and maintains maximum power.

[0128]

[0129] At step S820, if the control unit (16) determines that the sensed temperature is higher than the reference temperature, the control unit (16) controls the power of the surface heating pad (115) (S830).

[0130] Specifically, the control unit (16) can lower the output of the power applied to the surface heating pad (115) to a lower output than the maximum output.

[0131]

[0132] The temperature of the surface heating pad (115) is sensed by the temperature sensor (17), and the control unit (16) determines whether the sensed temperature is the same as the target temperature (S840).

[0133] If it is determined that the sensed temperature in step S840 is not equal to the target temperature, the control unit (16) can return to step S830 and control the power of the surface heating pad (115). For example, if the target temperature is set to 60°C and the sensed temperature is 58°C, the control unit (16) can increase the output of the currently applied power so that the temperature of the surface heating pad (115) can increase. If the sensed temperature is 62°C, the control unit (16) can lower the output of the currently applied power or temporarily stop the power supply so that the temperature of the surface heating pad (115) can decrease.

[0134]

[0135] If the sensed temperature at step S840 is determined to be equal to the target temperature, the control unit (16) can control the surface heating pad (115) to maintain the temperature of the surface heating pad (115) (S850). For example, the control unit (16) can maintain the output of the currently applied power.

[0136]

[0137] Figure 9 shows the results according to a method using a topper according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0138] Referring to Fig. 9, it can be confirmed that the power of the surface heating pad (115) (solid line in the graph of Fig. 9, see legend “Heater ON / OFF”) is controlled over time.

[0139] In addition, it can be confirmed that the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor (17) (solid line including a circular marker in the graph of FIG. 9, see legend “Sensor A / D scale 2”) stably reaches the target value.

[0140] That is, it can be seen that the topper (1) is stably controlled to the target temperature desired by the user through feedback control according to Fig. 8.

[0141]

[0142] FIG. 10 is for explaining a control method of a surface heating pad according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0143] Referring to FIG. 10, a method for the control unit (16) to control the surface heating pad (115) by zone will be described in detail. The surface heating pad (115) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a plurality of zones configured in two rows. For example, referring to FIG. 10, the surface heating pad (115) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may be configured in two rows divided into a left zone and a right zone, and each zone is further divided into four rows, so that the surface heating pad (115) may be divided into a total of eight zones.

[0144] Additionally, the plurality of wires (116) may include a first wire (116a). In this case, the first wire (116a) is configured to supply power to some of the plurality of zones. For example, the first wire (116a) included in the inner connector (13) provided in the right zone is configured to supply power to all four zones included in the right zone (see (a) of FIG. 10).

[0145] Additionally, the plurality of wires (116) may further include additional wires in addition to the first wire (116a). The additional wires are connected to each of the zones supplied with power by the first wire (116a) and configured to supply power to each zone. For example, the plurality of wires (116) may further include second wires (116b) to fifth wires (116e) (see FIG. 10 (a)).

[0146] The second wire (116b) can be connected to the first row of the right zone. As a result, when power is applied through the first wire (116a) and the second wire (116b), the first row of the right zone is heated (see (b) of FIG. 10).

[0147] The third wire (116c) can be connected to the second row of the right zone. As a result, when power is applied through the first wire (116a) and the third wire (116c), the second row of the right zone is heated (see (c) of Fig. 10).

[0148] The fourth wire (116d) can be connected to the third row of the right section. As a result, when power is applied through the first wire (116a) and the fourth wire (116d), the third row of the right section is heated (see (d) of Fig. 10).

[0149] The fifth wire (116e) can be connected to the 4th row section of the right section. Accordingly, when power is applied through the first wire (116a) and the 5th wire (116e), the 4th row of the right section is heated (see (e) of Fig. 10).

[0150] If power is applied through all of the first wire (116a) to the fifth wire (116e) of the inner connector (13) provided in the right zone, the entire right zone will be heated (see (f) of Fig. 10).

[0151] In addition, when power is applied to all wires of the inner connector (13) provided in the right zone and the inner connector (13) provided in the left zone, all zones formed in the surface heating pad (115) will be heated (see (g) of Fig. 10).

[0152] Therefore, the topper including the surface heating pad according to one embodiment of the present disclosure can independently control the left and right zones so that only the zones desired by the user (e.g., waist area, leg area, etc.) are heated to the desired temperature by the user, thereby increasing user convenience when multiple users use the topper (1).

[0153]

[0154] Description of a surface heating pad according to another embodiment and another embodiment

[0155] Fig. 11 illustrates a surface heating pad according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0156] Referring to Fig. 11, a surface heating pad according to another embodiment may include a plurality of sections arranged in two rows. A plurality of wires may be arranged along the length of the surface heating pad at each of the left and right ends. In this case, the plurality of wires arranged at each end may be shaped to branch from the center.

[0157] Accordingly, a topper including a surface heating pad according to another embodiment of the present disclosure may include one inner connector provided in the central portion and one outer connector connectable to the inner connector. Accordingly, a topper including a surface heating pad according to another embodiment can independently control multiple zones with only one connector.

[0158]

[0159] Fig. 12 illustrates a surface heating pad according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0160] Referring to FIG. 12, a surface heating pad according to another embodiment may include a plurality of zones arranged in two rows. A plurality of wires may be arranged along the length of the heating pad, i.e., in the center of the surface heating pad, between the left zone and the right zone.

[0161] Accordingly, a topper including a surface heating pad according to another embodiment of the present disclosure may include an inner connector provided in a central portion and an outer connector connectable to the inner connector. In this case, each of a plurality of power sources may be connected to zones provided in the same row (e.g., a zone in the first row of the left zone and a zone in the first row of the right zone), and the zones provided in the same row can be independently controlled. The surface heating pad according to another embodiment has the advantage of being suitable for a topper of a small or medium size rather than a large size.

[0162] The above description is merely an example of the technical idea of ​​the present embodiment, and those skilled in the art to which the present embodiment pertains may make various modifications and variations without departing from the essential characteristics of the present embodiment. Therefore, the present embodiments are not intended to limit the technical idea of ​​the present embodiment, but to explain it, and the scope of the technical idea of ​​the present embodiment is not limited by these embodiments. The protection scope of the present embodiment should be interpreted by the following claims, and all technical ideas within a scope equivalent thereto should be interpreted as being included in the scope of rights of the present embodiment.

[0163]

[0164] (Explanation of symbols)

[0165] 1: Topper

[0166] 10: Cover

[0167] 11: Surface heating element

[0168] 12: Built-in foam

[0169] 13: Internal connector

[0170] 14: External connector

[0171] 15: Inner connector fixing holder

[0172] 16: Control unit

[0173] 17: Temperature sensor

Claims

1. A surface heating element including a plurality of wires, the temperature of which increases when power is applied to the plurality of wires; A cover covering the outer surface of the above-mentioned surface heating element; and At least a portion of the connector is disposed inside the cover and is electrically connected to the plurality of wires; The above surface heating element, An upper foam formed at least in part with an open cell structure, at least in part formed of an elastic material; A lower form disposed below the upper form, at least a portion of which is formed with a closed cell structure, and at least a portion of which is formed of an elastic material; and A planar heating pad comprising a plurality of through holes formed such that at least a portion of the lower surface of the upper form and at least a portion of the upper surface of the lower form are in contact with each other, at least some of which are disposed between the upper form and the lower form; Topper.

2. In paragraph 1, The above surface heating pad includes a plurality of wires arranged along the length direction at each end, Topper.

3. In paragraph 2, The above cover includes a cushion portion arranged on the upper side of the upper form, It is provided inside the cover and further includes an internal foam located on the lower side of the surface heating element. Topper.

4. In paragraph 3, The above connector, Further comprising an inner connector disposed on the built-in form inside the cover and electrically connected to the plurality of wires, an outer connector configured to be detachably attached to the inner connector, and an inner connector fixing holder disposed between the cover and the upper form, The above inner connector is, An upper case arranged on the lower surface of the lower form, coupled to the inner connector fixing holder, and having one end electrically connected to the plurality of wires; A lower case configured to be combined with the upper case to form an internal accommodation space; and A terminal pin is disposed inside the above-mentioned receiving space and electrically connects the plurality of wires and the connection part of the external connector. Topper.

5. In paragraph 4, The above surface heating pad further includes a stepped portion that protrudes along the length direction from one end of the above surface heating pad and is bent downward. The above lower form includes a slit formed by cutting inward from one side, The step portion passes through the slit and the end of the step portion is placed below the lower form. Topper.

6. In paragraph 5, The above inner connector fixing holder includes a plurality of first through holes, The upper form includes a plurality of second through holes, The above lower form includes a plurality of third through holes, The plurality of first through holes to the plurality of third through holes are formed to be aligned in a row, The upper case includes a plurality of connecting protrusions protruding from the upper surface of the upper case, The plurality of first through holes to the plurality of third through holes are coupled with the plurality of coupling protrusions. Topper.

7. In paragraph 4, The above external connector is configured to be inserted into the receiving space inside the cover, The cover comprises a cut portion formed on the side and configured to insert the outer connector, and two zippers provided at both ends of the cut portion. Topper.

8. In paragraph 2, The above surface heating pad includes multiple zones that are independently powered, The plurality of wires comprises a first wire configured to supply power to at least some of the plurality of zones and one or more wires configured to supply power to each of the zones supplied by the first wire. Topper.

9. In paragraph 8, The above multiple zones are composed of two columns, One of the two columns is connected to a plurality of wires arranged at one of the two side ends, and the other of the two columns is connected to a plurality of wires arranged at the other of the two side ends. Topper.

10. In paragraph 8, The above multiple zones are composed of two columns, A plurality of wires arranged on one side of the above two sides and a plurality of wires arranged on the other side of the above two sides are branched from the center of the surface heating pad. Topper.

11. In paragraph 1, The above surface heating pad includes multiple zones composed of two rows, The above surface heating pad includes a plurality of wires arranged in the center of the plurality of zones along the length direction, When power is applied to the above plurality of wires, the temperature of the above plurality of zones rises. Topper.

12. In paragraph 1, The insulating part attached to the lower surface of the upper foam and the insulating part attached to the upper surface of the lower foam are heat-welded vertically at the upper and lower portions of the surface heating pad, respectively. After each of the above insulating parts is heat-welded, the upper foam and the lower foam are heat-welded to each of the above insulating parts. Topper.

13. In paragraph 1, The above surface heating pad includes a conductive carbon paste area, Topper.

14. In paragraph 1, a control unit configured to apply power to the plurality of wires; and Further comprising a temperature sensor configured to sense the temperature of the above-mentioned surface heating pad, The above control unit sets the target temperature, The above control unit applies maximum power to multiple wires, The above control unit compares the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor with a preset reference temperature, If the sensed temperature is determined to be lower than the reference temperature, the control unit maintains maximum power, If the sensed temperature is determined to be higher than the reference temperature, the control unit controls the output of the power supply to an output lower than the maximum output. The above control unit compares the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor with the target temperature, If the sensed temperature and the target temperature are not the same, the control unit controls the output of the applied power to be increased or decreased. If the sensed temperature and the target temperature are determined to be the same, the control unit controls the surface heating pad to maintain the temperature of the surface heating pad by maintaining the output of the applied power. Topper.

15. A mattress assembly comprising a topper according to any one of claims 1 to 14 and a mattress configured to support the topper from below.

Images