Integrated Air Mover and Distribution Insert for Seat Climate Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing climate control devices for support devices often require additional space, components, and can generate noise and vibrations, limiting their effectiveness and increasing costs, especially in compact applications like vehicle cabins.
Innovation Solution
A climate control device with a distribution insert and an air mover featuring multiple diverter openings, which can be securely attached to the support device using RF welding, reducing the need for additional components and minimizing noise and vibrations by being integrated into a cushion cavity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a climate control device is attached to the seating portion or backrest portion of a support device, then heating, cooling, and ventilation functions are provided to the occupant, but additional space is required that may not be readily available in compact applications
Solution Approach 1:
The climate control device is merged with the cushion assembly by integrating the air mover and distribution insert directly into the cushion structure. The distribution insert is received within a cavity formed in the cushion, eliminating the need for separate mounting space on the seating portion or backrest portion.
Solution Approach 2:
The air mover is positioned within a cavity formed in the cushion, with the distribution insert nested within the same cushion structure. This nesting arrangement allows the climate control components to occupy space within the existing cushion volume rather than requiring additional external space.
2Adaptability or versatility
If climate control devices are attached to the seating portion or backrest portion, then climate control functions are provided, but additional components such as ductwork and fasteners are required which add cost and weight
Solution Approach 1:
The climate control device is merged with the cushion assembly by integrating the air mover and distribution insert directly into the cushion structure. The distribution insert is received within a cavity formed in the cushion, eliminating the need for separate mounting space on the seating portion or backrest portion.
Solution Approach 2:
The cushion serves multiple functions: it provides structural support for the seat and simultaneously houses the climate control components (air mover and distribution insert). This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate mounting structures and reduces the overall number of components required.
3Adaptability or versatility
If climate control devices are attached to the seating portion or backrest portion, then climate control functions are provided, but noise and vibrations are generated which may be heard and/or felt by the occupant
Solution Approach 1:
The air mover is positioned within a cavity formed in the cushion, with the distribution insert nested within the same cushion structure. This nesting arrangement allows the climate control components to occupy space within the existing cushion volume rather than requiring additional external space.
Solution Approach 2:
The cushion material surrounding the air mover and distribution insert acts as a vibration-dampening medium. The soft, compliant cushion material absorbs and isolates vibrations and noise generated by the air mover before they can be transmitted to the occupant, providing beforehand cushioning against harmful vibrations.
4Device complexity
If an air mover has only a single opening, then the device structure is simplified, but the amount of air passed towards the occupant and removed from the vicinity is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The air mover is provided with multiple openings (first opening and second opening) instead of a single opening. This segmentation of the air flow paths allows independent control and optimization of air intake and exhaust flows, increasing the overall air moving capacity of the device.
Solution Approach 2:
The distribution insert includes multiple outlets arranged in a specific pattern, creating a three-dimensional air distribution network. This multi-dimensional arrangement of openings and outlets maximizes air flow capacity and distribution effectiveness throughout the cushion volume.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution enhances comfort by efficiently moving air, reduces packaging space, simplifies manufacturing, and decreases the overall weight and noise of the climate control system while maintaining or improving heating, cooling, and ventilation performance.
Implementation Method 1
an air mover (i.e., a fan or blower) with only a single opening
Implementation Method 2
The climate control device may be RF welded directly to the support device
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a climate control device, comprising a distribution insert and an air mover attached to the distribution insert. The air mover includes two or more diverter openings moving a fluid through the distribution insert and through a support device.