Multi-Stage Vehicle Vent Device Airflow Control

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing vent devices in vehicles lack a mechanism to efficiently control airflow direction and temperature distribution, particularly in adjusting airflow flow rates and directions within the vehicle interior.

Innovation Solution

A vent device comprising multiple stage ventilation assemblies with inner and outer layer elements that move relative to each other, forming annular air ducts and outlets, driven by a transmission assembly and motor to selectively open and close airflow paths, allowing for controlled airflow direction and distribution.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If a single-layer vent structure is used, then the device complexity is low, but the airflow control precision and directionality are insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveairflow control precisionVSAvoidvent structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The vent device is divided into multiple independent layers (first layer with first vent holes, second layer with second vent holes, third layer with third vent holes). Each layer can be controlled independently to achieve precise airflow control in different directions, resolving the contradiction between control precision and structural complexity by segmenting the single-layer structure into multiple functional layers.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs a nested structure where the second layer is positioned within the first layer, and the third layer is positioned within the second layer. The inner layer elements are received by outer layer elements, creating a compact multi-layer configuration that achieves complex airflow control functionality while maintaining a space-efficient design.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple stage ventilation assemblies are added to control airflow direction, then the airflow distribution flexibility is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveairflow distribution flexibilityVSAvoidventilation assembly complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent incorporates movable inner layer elements that can shift position relative to the outer layer elements. The inner layer elements are configured to move between different positions to selectively block or open vent holes, enabling dynamic adjustment of airflow patterns and directions without requiring multiple separate mechanical assemblies.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

Each layer structure serves multiple functions: it provides structural support, defines airflow paths, controls ventilation openings, and guides airflow direction. The outer layer elements both protect the inner layer elements and serve as part of the airflow control mechanism themselves, reducing the need for separate dedicated components for each function.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Ease of operation

If the air duct outlet is made closable to control airflow flow rate, then the airflow control capability is improved, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveairflow control capabilityVSAvoidclearance control precision
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The inner layer elements are designed to automatically engage with the outer layer elements through their respective engagement structures. The movable inner layer elements self-align and self-position within the outer layer elements, using the engagement structures to maintain proper clearance and sealing without requiring high-precision manual adjustment or complex positioning mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS11697326B2Vent device having one or more stage ventilation assemblies
Publication Date: 2023.07.11 ILLINOIS TOOL WORKS INC
  • US11697326B2 patent drawing
  • US11697326B2 patent drawing
  • US11697326B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A vent device includes at least one stage ventilation assembly, each stage of the at least one stage ventilation assembly includes an inner layer element and an outer layer element. An air duct is formed between the outer layer element and the inner layer element, and the air duct has an air duct outlet. Each stage of the at least one stage ventilation assembly has an air duct open position and closed position. The outer layer element and the inner layer element are configured to be able to move along the first direction relative to each other between the air duct open position and closed position. In the air duct closed position, the inner layer element closes the air duct outlet, and in the air duct open position, the inner layer element opens the air duct outlet.