Vehicle Heating Control Using Energy-Based Temperature Inference
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle heating systems for members like seats and steering wheels are complex and costly due to the need for multiple temperature sensors, increasing manufacturing complexity and electricity consumption.
Innovation Solution
A method using two electrical heating units, where the first unit heats a priority area to a set temperature and the second unit receives energy based on the first unit's energy supply, eliminating the need for additional temperature sensors and allowing for flexible power distribution between units.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple temperature sensors are used to monitor different zones, then temperature control precision is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The first heating unit serves dual purposes: it both heats the priority area and acts as a temperature sensor through its power consumption measurements. By monitoring the electrical energy consumed by the first heating unit, the system infers temperature conditions without requiring separate temperature sensors for the second zone, allowing the system to self-monitor and self-regulate
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit uses the electrical energy consumption of the first heating unit as an intermediary parameter to indirectly determine the temperature state of the second zone. Instead of directly measuring temperature in both zones with sensors, the system uses power consumption data as a mediator to infer thermal conditions and control the second heating unit accordingly
2Manufacturing precision
If multiple temperature sensors and control units are added, then temperature regulation accuracy is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The first heating unit is designed to perform multiple functions: it provides primary heating for the priority area, serves as a reference for energy consumption measurements, and enables indirect temperature monitoring for the second zone. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate temperature sensors and reduces manufacturing costs while maintaining accurate temperature regulation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the heating function and temperature sensing function into a single integrated approach. The control unit merges the power management of both heating units and uses the electrical energy measurements from the first unit to control the second unit, consolidating what would traditionally require separate sensing and control systems
3Speed
If heating power is distributed to multiple zones simultaneously, then overall heating speed is improved, but electricity consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system prioritizes heating the priority area first by allocating maximum power to the first heating unit in the initial phase. Only after the priority area reaches the target temperature does the system begin heating the second zone, ensuring energy is used efficiently in a staged manner rather than simultaneously heating all zones
Solution Approach 2:
The power distribution to the two heating units is dynamic rather than static. The control unit continuously adjusts the power allocated to each unit based on real-time temperature conditions and energy consumption measurements, optimizing the balance between heating speed and electricity consumption throughout the heating process
4Stability of the object's composition
If the first heating unit maintains temperature continuously, then temperature stability is improved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of continuous heating, the system uses periodic or demand-based heating for the first unit. The control unit monitors temperature and only supplies power to maintain the setpoint when necessary, allowing the heating element to cycle on and off rather than operating continuously, thus reducing overall power consumption while maintaining temperature stability
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 approach simplifies the system architecture, reduces electricity consumption, and allows for efficient temperature regulation of priority areas while quickly heating other zones, maintaining comfort without excessive power usage.
Implementation Method 1
at least one first electrical heating unit and at least one second electrical heating unit
Data Source
AI summary
A method of heating a vehicle member, comprising at least one first electrical heating unit and at least one second electrical heating unit, the method comprising:a first step with a step consisting of supplying current to the first electrical heating unit until at least one zone reaches a setpoint temperature, and with a step consisting of determining a first electrical energy supplied to the first electrical heating unit,a second step with a step consisting of supplying the first electrical heating unit in order to keep the priority area of the member at the setpoint temperature and with a step consisting of delivering to the second electrical heating unit a second electrical energy, calculated based on the first electrical energy.