Seat conditioning module
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current seat conditioning modules in vehicles are complex and costly, requiring numerous components to achieve various conditioning modes, which complicates their design and assembly.
Innovation Solution
A seat conditioning module with a unique fluid control system and valve assembly that includes an air mover, movable valves, and an optional thermoelectric device, allowing for efficient control of air flow and thermal conditioning, minimizing components while enhancing comfort modes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate components are used to achieve various conditioning modes, then the conditioning functionality and versatility are improved, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a single valve assembly that can perform multiple functions by moving between different positions. The valve assembly controls air flow to achieve various conditioning modes including cooling, heating, and ventilation by directing air to different outlets and distribution channels, eliminating the need for separate components for each mode.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple air movers into a single integrated unit with a shared housing and control system. The valve assembly serves as a common control mechanism for all conditioning modes, merging what would traditionally require separate components into one unified system that reduces overall complexity.
2Ease of operation
If a comprehensive conditioning system with multiple features is implemented, then occupant comfort is improved, but the manufacturing cost and assembly complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the conditioning system into functional modules: air movers for air generation, a valve assembly for flow control, distribution channels for air delivery, and a housing for structural support. This modular segmentation allows for simplified manufacturing and assembly while maintaining comprehensive conditioning functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve assembly serves as a universal control component that manages air flow for all conditioning modes (cooling, heating, ventilation) through a single assembly, reducing the number of separate components required and simplifying both manufacturing and assembly processes.
3Temperature
If thermal conditioning devices are added to the air movement system, then the conditioning capability is improved, but the device complexity and energy consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent recovers thermal energy by directing air flow through pathways that utilize heat from the air movers and surrounding components. The system captures and redistributes thermal energy that would otherwise be wasted, providing thermal conditioning while minimizing additional energy consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The air movers and valve assembly generate and distribute thermal energy as a byproduct of their primary air movement function. The system provides thermal conditioning automatically through its existing components without requiring separate active heating or cooling devices, reducing overall energy consumption.
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 simplifies the design and reduces costs by enabling multiple conditioning modes with fewer components, improving occupant comfort through efficient air and thermal management, including a 'burst' mode for thermal energy release.
Implementation Method 1
an air mover for moving a fluid and that may be fluidly connected to at least one intake port, at least one outtake port, or both wherein the intake port and the outtake port can be in fluid communication with a conditioned area
Implementation Method 2
a valve assembly with at least two apertures that may be movably disposed between the air mover and the at least one intake and at least one outtake ports for controlling the movement of the fluid
Implementation Method 3
The optional conditioning device may be a thermoelectric device for heating, cooling or both the fluid
Implementation Method 4
The optional conditioning device may include at least one thermal collection device for storing thermal energy
Data Source
AI summary
A seat conditioning module for a seat conditioning assembly including an air mover, an intake port, outtake port, wherein at least one of the intake port, the outtake port, or both are in fluid communication with a seat surface. A valve assembly with at least two apertures movably disposed between the air mover and the at least one intake and at least one outtake ports. An actuation device for moving the valve assembly to control the passage of the fluid through the at least two apertures. An optional conditioning device in fluid communication with the air mover and the seat surface. A control device for at least controlling the position of the at least two apertures of the valve assembly, the activation of the optional conditioning device, the operation of the air mover, or any combination thereof.