Seat Blower Mesh Frame for HVAC Air Leakage Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing seat devices connected to HVAC systems lack efficient ventilation and temperature control, particularly in minimizing air leakage and ensuring consistent performance during HVAC operation and non-operation, and fail to independently manage rear seat cooling and heating.
Innovation Solution
A seat device connected to an HVAC apparatus with a breathable non-woven mesh frame at the inlet of the seat blower, an air direction changing ventilation unit, and flexible ducts to manage airflow between the seat blower and HVAC apparatus, allowing concurrent suction of indoor and HVAC-supplied air, and independent ventilation and temperature control for both the seat and rear seat.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the seat blower inlet is directly connected to the HVAC apparatus without spacing, then the structure is compact, but air leakage into the vehicle occurs and ventilation performance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
A mesh frame is introduced as an intermediary component between the seat blower inlet and the HVAC apparatus. This mesh frame serves as a mediator that allows air to pass through while preventing direct connection issues, thereby maintaining ventilation performance without requiring complex sealing structures
Solution Approach 2:
A flexible non-woven sheet is used to cover the mesh frame, creating a flexible barrier that prevents air leakage while allowing airflow through the mesh structure. This flexible film approach maintains ventilation performance without requiring rigid complex structures
2Adaptability or versatility
If a single duct system is used for both seat ventilation and rear seat cooling, then the device complexity is reduced, but the ability to independently control ventilation and temperature for different zones is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The air distribution system is segmented into separate ducts: a first duct for seat ventilation and a second duct for rear seat cooling and heating. This segmentation allows independent control of air supply to different zones, enabling adaptability for different seating positions without requiring a single complex multi-functional duct
Solution Approach 2:
The HVAC apparatus is designed with multi-functionality to serve both front seat ventilation and rear seat cooling/heating through separate ducts. This universal design allows one system to handle multiple functions (ventilation, cooling, heating) for different zones independently, achieving adaptability without proportionally increasing overall system complexity
3Productivity
If the seat blower operates without a mesh frame structure, then the manufacturing cost is reduced, but air leakage into the vehicle occurs and ventilation efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The mesh frame acts as an intermediary structure that is relatively simple to manufacture yet effectively prevents air leakage while maintaining airflow efficiency. This intermediate structure provides a balance between manufacturing simplicity and functional performance
Solution Approach 2:
A flexible non-woven sheet is used as a simple-to-manufacture covering for the mesh frame, providing effective air leakage prevention without requiring complex rigid structures. This flexible film approach maintains ventilation efficiency while being easy to manufacture and install
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
Enhances ventilation and temperature control performance by minimizing air leakage, maintaining performance during HVAC off-states, and independently managing rear seat cooling and heating without expensive thermoelectric elements, thus reducing costs and improving comfort.
Implementation Method 1
a breathable non-woven sheet disposed at the inlet of the seat blower to prevent the air introduced through the inlet of the seat blower from leaking into the vehicle
Implementation Method 2
a seat blower mounted on a seat to blow indoor air introduced through an inlet thereof
Implementation Method 3
cooling and heating of a rear seat
Implementation Method 4
cooling and heating of a rear seat
Data Source
AI summary
A seat device operatively connected to an HVAC apparatus is provided. The seat device includes the HVAC apparatus to adjust the indoor air within a vehicle. A seat blower is mounted on a seat to blow indoor air, introduced through an inlet thereof, to a seat cushion and a seat back. A connecting duct allows airflow between the seat blower and the HVAC apparatus and a mesh frame connects a circumferential edge of the inlet of the seat blower with the connecting duct to allow ventilation therethrough.