Radiant Heating System with Infrared Sensor Feedback Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Radiant heating systems in motor vehicles face inefficiencies when the angle between the heating panel and the target surface deviates from zero degrees, leading to suboptimal heating and energy wastage, as they lack precise control over temperature distribution and targeting.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating infrared sensors to detect the presence and temperature of a target within the radiant heating zone, allowing for precise control of heating elements and efficient energy use by activating only necessary panels, thereby directing heat to the coldest areas first.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If radiant heating panels are operated without temperature feedback control, then the heating coverage area is maximized, but energy is wasted and heating efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback control by using infrared sensors to detect target temperature and continuously adjusting radiant heating panel output. The control system receives temperature data from IR sensors and modulates heating intensity accordingly, creating a closed-loop system that prevents energy waste while maintaining comfort.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-regulation where the radiant heating panels automatically adjust their operation based on real-time temperature feedback from infrared sensors without requiring manual intervention. The heating zones independently control their output based on local temperature conditions, optimizing energy efficiency autonomously.
2Productivity
If radiant heating panels are operated without target detection, then the heating coverage is maximized, but heating efficiency decreases due to inadequate targeting
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the heating space into multiple independent heating zones, each equipped with its own infrared sensors and control system. Each zone independently detects targets and adjusts heating intensity locally, providing precise targeting without requiring system-wide complexity. This localized approach improves heating efficiency while keeping individual zone complexity manageable.
Solution Approach 2:
The heating system is segmented into multiple independent heating zones with separate control systems. Each zone can independently detect targets using infrared sensors and adjust heating output, allowing efficient targeting of specific areas without affecting other zones. This segmentation enables precise heat delivery while distributing system complexity across multiple independent units.
3Ease of manufacture
If radiant heating panels are positioned at non-optimal angles, then installation flexibility is improved, but heating efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic angle adjustment mechanisms that allow radiant heating panels to automatically optimize their orientation toward detected targets. Infrared sensors identify target positions, and the system adjusts panel angles in real-time to maintain optimal heating geometry, thereby preserving heating efficiency while retaining installation flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically changes the orientation parameter of heating panels based on target detection data from infrared sensors. By adjusting panel angles to optimize the normal-to-target alignment, the system maintains high heating efficiency regardless of initial installation positions, effectively decoupling installation flexibility from heating performance.
4Use of energy by stationary object
If radiant heating systems operate without temperature regulation, then user comfort is improved through continuous heating, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs feedback control where infrared sensors continuously monitor target temperature and relay data to the control system. The system adjusts heating output in real-time to maintain temperature within a comfort range, reducing energy consumption by eliminating unnecessary heating while preventing temperature drops that would compromise comfort.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical temperature sensing and control mechanisms with infrared sensing technology. IR sensors non-contactly detect target temperature, enabling more precise and responsive temperature regulation that reduces energy waste while maintaining comfort, overcoming limitations of conventional contact-based sensing systems.
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
This solution enhances user comfort by providing targeted and efficient heating, conserving energy by deactivating unnecessary heating elements and ensuring rapid warming, while maintaining optimal skin or clothing temperature.
Implementation Method 1
Infrared sensors are incorporated into radiant heating systems to detect the presence of a target within a radiant heating zone
Implementation Method 2
Radiant heating is a technology that provides heat through infrared (IR) radiation
Implementation Method 3
Radiant heating panels are powered by the vehicle to create and maintain comfort in cold conditions
Data Source
AI summary
A radiant heating system includes a radiant heating zone, a first radiant heating feature on a first side of the radiant heating zone and a second radiant heating feature on a second side of the radiant heating zone opposite the first side. A method of radiant heating is also disclosed.