Vehicle Patents (Class 237/28)
  • Patent number: 11850911
    Abstract: A mounting structure of a thermal management module for a vehicle, includes: a mounting carrier mounted at a front of a vehicle body and having a receiving space; and a thermal management module mounted in the receiving space; wherein the thermal management module includes: an air conditioner mounted in the receiving space and configured to adjust a temperature of a vehicle interior according to a cooling mode or a heating mode; and a cooling device mounted in the receiving space and configured to heat-exchange with a working fluid using an external air introduced from outside of the cooling device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2022
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2023
    Assignees: HYUNDAI MOTOR COMPANY, KIA CORPORATION, HANON SYSTEMS
    Inventors: Yeonho Kim, Gee Young Shin, Jae Yeon Kim, Jeawan Kim, Jung Sam Gu, Jae Chun Ryu, Sung-Wook Park
  • Patent number: 11634006
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for vehicle climate control using distributed sensors are disclosed. A disclosed example method includes receiving data from sensors distributed within a vehicle at a first controller, processing the data at the first controller to identify an event associated with the interior of the vehicle and sending an instruction based on the event from the first controller to a second controller of the vehicle to affect an operation of a climate control system of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 2017
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2023
    Assignee: Ford Motor Company
    Inventors: Perry Robinson MacNeille, Omar Makke, Yimin Liu, Jeffrey Yeung, Oleg Yurievitch Gusikhin
  • Patent number: 10737553
    Abstract: A temperature control equipment (3) for a vehicle, in particular an electric vehicle, enables an aerothermic adjustment of an airflow to be distributed in a passenger compartment (H) of the vehicle. The temperature control equipment (3) includes at least one heat treatment module (8), capable of heat-treating the airflow, and a distribution module (9), capable of distributing the airflow to the passenger compartment (H). The heat treatment module (8) comprises a single means (21) for heating the airflow to be distributed in the passenger compartment (H), which consists of an electric radiator (21).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2018
    Date of Patent: August 11, 2020
    Assignee: Valeo Systemes Thermiques
    Inventors: Amanda Martinell, Fabrice Ailloud, Didier Loup, Philippe Vincent
  • Patent number: 10640004
    Abstract: A system includes an on-board charger that receives energy from an external power source and a battery having a state of charge (SOC) and a battery temperature. The system also includes a battery heater that converts electrical energy into thermal energy (heat) for increasing the battery temperature. The system also includes a battery management system (BMS) that determines or detects a current SOC of the battery and a current battery temperature. The system also includes an electronic control unit (ECU) coupled to the on-board charger and to the BMS. The ECU controls the on-board charger to distribute energy to the battery and to the battery heater to cause the SOC to remain above a SOC threshold and to cause the battery temperature to remain above a battery temperature threshold based on the current SOC and the current battery temperature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2016
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2020
    Assignee: TOYOTA MOTOR ENGINEERING & MANUFACTURING NORTH AMERICA, INC.
    Inventor: Tapan V. Patel
  • Patent number: 10245921
    Abstract: A system according to the principles of the present disclosure includes a temperature estimation module and a coolant flow control module. The temperature estimation module can determine an estimate of a heater core air out temperature of a vehicle based upon a heater core inlet coolant temperature, a heater core outlet coolant temperature, an estimated volumetric air flowrate, and an estimated volumetric coolant flowrate. The coolant flow control module can control a rate at which coolant flows to a heater core of the vehicle by adjusting a position of a coolant control valve of the vehicle or an output of a coolant pump of the vehicle. The coolant flow control module can control the coolant flowrate to decrease a difference between a target heater core air out temperature and the estimated heater core air out temperature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2017
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2019
    Assignee: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC
    Inventors: Prashant V. Mer, Vish S. Iyer, Goutham Ethiraj Shivashankar
  • Patent number: 10240851
    Abstract: A bottom-freezer refrigerator has an ice making compartment formed in a door thereof. Cold air formed in independent spaces of the refrigerating compartment is individually guided to the ice making compartment and the refrigerating compartment, thereby reducing power consumption and noise to be caused as the length of a fluid passage is increased. Foods are refrigerated or frozen and stored in a clean state. The foods in the refrigerating compartment are freshly stored in a high moisture state, and the door is prevented from being forcibly open.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2019
    Assignee: HEFEI MIDEA REFRIGERATOR CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Sang-uk Kim, Zhengguang Lv, Zhongcheng Fang
  • Patent number: 9334783
    Abstract: Embodiments for heating a vehicle cabin are disclosed. In one example, a method for an engine comprises pumping coolant from a coolant reservoir to an exhaust component and then to a heater core, the coolant heated by the exhaust component, and during engine warm-up conditions, adjusting a flow rate of coolant into a heater core to maximize heat transfer to a vehicle cabin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 10, 2016
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventor: Ross Dykstra Pursifull
  • Publication number: 20150144707
    Abstract: The invention relates to temperature control equipment (3) for a vehicle, in particular an electric vehicle, enabling an aerothermic adjustment of an airflow to be distributed in a passenger compartment (H) of the vehicle, including at least one heat treatment module (8), capable of heat-treating the airflow, and a distribution module (9), capable of distributing the airflow to the passenger compartment (H). The heat treatment module (8) comprises a single means (21) for heating the airflow to be distributed in the passenger compartment (H), which consists of an electric radiator (21).
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 7, 2013
    Publication date: May 28, 2015
    Inventors: Amanda Martinell, Fabrice Ailloud, Didier Loup, Philippe Vincent
  • Publication number: 20150121902
    Abstract: According to some embodiments, a zonal conditioning system for a vehicle comprises a headliner assembly configured to be secured to the top surface of a vehicle interior, wherein the headliner assembly comprises a first side positioned away from the vehicle interior and hidden from the vehicle interior, and a second side positioned toward the vehicle interior, the headliner assembly comprising at least two vents through which air selectively passes. The zonal conditioning system further includes at least two fluid modules positioned along the first side of the headliner assembly, wherein each of the fluid modules comprises a fluid transfer device and an outlet. In some embodiments, at least one property of the air discharged through the first and second vents can be selectively regulated to create separate conditioning zones within the interior of the vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 4, 2014
    Publication date: May 7, 2015
    Inventors: Adam Joseph Steinman, Kenneth James Bunyak, Bruno Antonio Orlando
  • Publication number: 20150102119
    Abstract: A controller controls an air-conditioning device so that air of the air-conditioning device is supplied to a cabin based on a warm-up state of air of the air-conditioning device. When remote air conditioning is performed, the controller controls the air-conditioning device so that air of the air-conditioning device is supplied to the cabin even in a state where the warm-up state is lower than in a case where air of the air-conditioning device is supplied to the cabin of the vehicle in the operation air conditioning. In a manner described above, a vehicle capable of suppressing power loss and lengthening of charging time in heating during the remote air conditioning and the preliminary air conditioning is provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 20, 2014
    Publication date: April 16, 2015
    Inventors: Hidekazu HIRABAYASHI, Kunihiko JINNO, Hiroaki MATSUMOTO
  • Publication number: 20150097041
    Abstract: A vehicle includes an air conditioning apparatus for heating inside of a passenger compartment using electric power of an external power supply or of the vehicle, the apparatus being configured to be capable of executing a foot mode to blow air toward feet and a moisture prevention mode to blow air also through a defroster unit while the foot mode is selected, and a control unit that causes the air conditioning apparatus to execute remote air conditioning in which air conditioning is performed while a user is not in the vehicle, and operated air conditioning in which air conditioning is performed by the user's operation while the user is in the vehicle. The control unit limits the execution of the moisture prevention mode in the remote air conditioning more than the execution of the moisture prevention mode in the operated air conditioning.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 23, 2014
    Publication date: April 9, 2015
    Inventors: Hidekazu Hirabayashi, Kunihiko Jinno, Hiroaki Matsumoto
  • Publication number: 20150060428
    Abstract: A heater apparatus for a vehicle may include a main heater of a vehicle, and an auxiliary heater coupled with the main heater at the rear side thereof and having a housing including an edge part and an inner part, wherein heat radiation fins and positive temperature coefficient (PTC) element assemblies are coupled with the housing at the front surface thereof.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 11, 2013
    Publication date: March 5, 2015
    Applicants: Hyundai Motor Company, DOOWON CLIMATE CONTROL CO., LTD, Kia Motors Corporation
    Inventors: Myung Hoe Kim, In Gyu Kim, Jong Chul Kim
  • Publication number: 20150028119
    Abstract: A method of heating the interior of a vehicle is provided, particularly of a hybrid or electric vehicle. The vehicle has a central heating system and several decentralized heating surfaces constructed as infrared radiators. The temperature of the vehicle interior is controllable by the central heating system and/or the decentralized heating surfaces corresponding to a heating demand of at least one vehicle occupant. For controlling the temperature of the interior by way of the decentralized heating surfaces, the heating power of at least one decentralized heating surface is specified or influenced as a function of the position of the vehicle occupant or of a part of the vehicle occupant's body relative to the respective decentralized heating surface or to a defined group of several decentralized heating surfaces.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 24, 2014
    Publication date: January 29, 2015
    Inventors: Peter SATZGER, Robert HERBOLZHEIMER, Eugen FEINMANN
  • Publication number: 20150014424
    Abstract: In a method for producing a vehicle heater (10), a main body (12) of the vehicle heater (10) is equipped with a non-intrinsically safe heat conductor layer (14), and a sensor device (16, 18, 20) for detecting exceedances of a temperature threshold value. To form the sensor device (16, 18, 20) a sensor layer (16) is sprayed on without the main body (12) being exposed to temperatures normal for baking processes. A vehicle heater (10) is equipped with a main body (12) carrying a non-intrinsically safe heat conductor layer (14), and with a sensor device (16, 18, 20) allocated to the heat conductor layer (14) and provided to detect the exceedance of a temperature threshold value. The sensor device (16, 18, 20) comprises a sprayed-on sensor layer (16) produced without the main body (12) assuming temperatures that are normal for baking processes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 8, 2013
    Publication date: January 15, 2015
    Inventors: Thomas Bytzek, Thorsten Kabelitz, Karl Goettl, Daniel Eckert
  • Publication number: 20140338883
    Abstract: To prevent reduction in cruising distance due to usage of electric power for anti-fogging of a window, heating of a vehicle interior, or the like when an electric vehicle or the like that runs by power supply from an in-vehicle battery is running, vehicle interior air that has passed through heat exchanging means for exchanging heat between vehicle interior air and outside air is introduced into a dehumidifying member. Therefore, the dehumidifying member can absorb moisture from air having a relative humidity that is relatively high, and hence a larger amount of moisture can be absorbed even with the same dehumidifying member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 14, 2012
    Publication date: November 20, 2014
    Applicant: YOKOHAMA HEAT USE TECHNOLOGY
    Inventor: Takumasa Watanabe
  • Patent number: 8789766
    Abstract: This invention relates to a mixing device for an aircraft air conditioning system with a supply conduit for fresh air from the air conditioning system, with a second supply conduit for recirculated air from a pressurized region of the aircraft, and with a discharge conduit for supplying mixed air into the pressurized region of the aircraft, wherein a non-return valve is integrated in the mixer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 29, 2014
    Assignee: Liebherr-Aerospace Lindenberg GmbH
    Inventor: Georg Baldauf
  • Publication number: 20140158319
    Abstract: A rear air conditioner for a vehicle including a discharge module mounted at an air outflow port of an air-conditioning case and having a discharge case and a rotary mode door; two face vents formed at both side walls of the discharge case; a floor vent formed at the center of the discharge case; and an air mixing zone formed inside the rotary mode door, thereby reducing the size of the air conditioner because a plurality of the vents are intensively arranged in the discharge case, enhancing installability due to the modulated components, reducing a temperature difference of the air discharged to the left and right sides inside the vehicle due to an improved mixability. The inside of the rotary mode door can be utilized as the air mixing zone. The degrees of opening of the face vents and the floor vent are controlled by the single mode door.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 3, 2013
    Publication date: June 12, 2014
    Applicant: Halla Visteon Climate Control Corp.
    Inventors: Youngbok JU, Jongsu KIM, Honghee JEONG, Hanjun KANG, Donghyun KIM
  • Publication number: 20140117104
    Abstract: An air conditioner for a vehicle includes: a heater core which heats air for air-conditioning by using cooling water of a cooling circuit which cools a fuel cell of a fuel cell vehicle or an engine of a hybrid car as a heat source; a heat exchanger arranged upstream of the heater core in a flow of the air for air-conditioning to heat the air for air-conditioning by using refrigerant which flows through a heat pump cycle as a heat source; and a control part which controls operation of the heat pump cycle in a manner that a target temperature of the air for air-conditioning heated by the heat exchanger is changed in accordance with a temperature of the cooling water.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 12, 2012
    Publication date: May 1, 2014
    Applicant: DENSO CORPORATION
    Inventor: Atsushi Inaba
  • Publication number: 20140097030
    Abstract: A pneumatic vehicle is provided with a chassis, wheels, a compressed air tank, a heat exchanger to heat the compressed air, and an air motor driven by the heated air and connected to at least one wheel. A pneumatic vehicle is provided with a chassis, wheels, a compressed air tank, and an air motor driven by the compressed air and connected to a wheel. The vehicle also has a ventilation system for the passenger compartment, a heat exchanger, and a restrictive solenoid valve for directing ventilation system air to the heat exchanger. A pneumatic vehicle is provided with a chassis, wheels, an aluminum compressed air tank, a carbon filament reinforced plastic layer over the tank, a fiberglass and aramid-fiber layer over the carbon filament reinforced plastic layer, and an air motor driven by the compressed air and connected to at least one wheel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 5, 2012
    Publication date: April 10, 2014
    Applicant: DEAKIN UNIVERSITY
    Inventor: Deakin University
  • Publication number: 20140070013
    Abstract: A thermal system for an electric vehicle includes an electric heat source, a heat exchanger, a traction battery, a first thermal loop thermally coupled to the heat exchanger and the heat source, and a second thermal loop thermally coupled to the battery and configured to be selectively thermally coupled to the heat source. A vehicle includes an electric heat source, a heat exchanger system selectively thermally coupled with the heat source, and a traction battery system selectively thermally coupled to the heat source. A method of controlling a battery electric vehicle includes detecting a vehicle state input and operating an electric heater to heat a fluid. A valve arrangement is actuated to provide the fluid to one of a traction battery through a first fluid conduit, a heat exchanger through a second fluid conduit, and a battery and a heat exchanger through the first and second fluid conduits.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 12, 2012
    Publication date: March 13, 2014
    Applicant: FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC
    Inventors: Joseph F. Stanek, Brian Gillespey, Kenneth J. Jackson, Mark G. Smith, Scott Wojtkowicz, Andy Kummer, Christopher Adam Ochocinski
  • Patent number: 8662968
    Abstract: A thermal conditioning system for the energy storage system of a hybrid vehicle. At least one auxiliary air source, other than a permanently open air source, has a selectively operable actuator door which either connects or disconnects the auxiliary air source to the energy storage system blower, the air flow being selected to optimally temperature condition the energy storage system. The auxiliary air source preferably includes the HVAC ducting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2014
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventors: Michael G. Leffert, Tyler J Pilgeram, Ian L Hanna, Eric L. Mayberry, Jonathan R. Schwarz
  • Publication number: 20140054388
    Abstract: The invention relates to an air-diverting element with a flow-optimized contour for an air-conditioning system, in particular of a motor vehicle, which air-diverting element extends approximately perpendicular to an air flow direction. To divert an air flow through approximately 180° and at the same time nevertheless prevent pressure losses and disadvantageous acoustic effects, one end of the air-diverting element is adjoined by an approximately parabolic elongation which is situated opposite that side of the air-diverting element which faces away from the air flow direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 7, 2012
    Publication date: February 27, 2014
    Applicant: BEHR GMBH & CO. KG
    Inventors: Jürgen Heilemann, Harald Mühleisen, Vincenzo Venezia, Holger Laux
  • Publication number: 20140027432
    Abstract: What is presented is a thawing system for thermally heating an undercarriage of a machine, with the machine having an engine and a track frame. This thawing system comprises a heating element and thawing line. The heating element is powered independently from the engine, produces thermal energy for the thawing system, and can be activated and/or stay activated when the engine is not active. The thawing line is connected to the heating element, adapted to spread thermal energy from the heating element throughout the undercarriage of the machine, and is isolated from the engine. The thawing line extends from the heating element to the undercarriage of the machine via a channel, which is in the machine. Thermal energy is produced and delivered to the undercarriage of the machine when the heating element is activated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 1, 2013
    Publication date: January 30, 2014
    Inventor: Dana A. Hennessy
  • Publication number: 20140014421
    Abstract: A thermal management system is provided for a vehicle having an electric traction motor and a battery pack. The thermal management system includes a battery pack heater configured to transfer heat to the battery pack, a second thermal load heater configured to transfer heat to a second thermal load, and a control system. The second thermal load heater is selectively thermally connectable to the battery pack to transfer heat from the second thermal load heater to the battery pack. When the vehicle is connected to an external energy source and the battery pack is at sufficiently low temperature, the control system is configured to control the temperature of the battery pack by activating the second thermal load heater and thermally connecting the second thermal load heater to the battery pack in response to a failure of the battery pack heater.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 9, 2013
    Publication date: January 16, 2014
    Inventors: Neil Carpenter, Guangning Gao, Ibrahim Alkeilani
  • Patent number: 8628025
    Abstract: A vehicle waste heat recovery system may include a first pump, an internal combustion engine, a waste heat recovery device and a condenser. The first pump may be in fluid communication with a fluid. The internal combustion engine may be operable to power rotation of a drive axle of a vehicle and may define an engine coolant passage having an inlet in fluid communication with an outlet of the first pump. The waste heat recovery device may have an inlet in fluid communication with an outlet of the engine coolant passage. The condenser may have an inlet in fluid communication with an outlet of the waste heat recovery device and an outlet in fluid communication with an inlet of the first pump.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 14, 2014
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventor: John R. Bucknell
  • Publication number: 20130320102
    Abstract: In a motor vehicle air conditioning system, comprising a housing, a fan and at least one heating device, the intention is for different heating devices to be able to be fastened to a housing in a technically simple manner with low production costs. This problem is solved in that the at least one heating device is fastened to the housing, in particular exclusively, by at least one adaptor cover.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 1, 2011
    Publication date: December 5, 2013
    Applicant: BEHR GMBH & CO. KG
    Inventors: Erich Litwing, Sascha Lindauer, Walter Wolf
  • Publication number: 20130292482
    Abstract: In an air conditioning system, a control unit controls an adjusting unit to adjust a ratio between an amount of a first part of introduced air passing through a heater core and an amount of a second part of the introduced air bypassing the heater core to a first ratio at which the amount of the first part of the introduced air decreases from a maximized amount of the first part of the introduced air according to an increase in temperature of the heater core by a warming unit. When a setting temperature for air conditioning is increased by an input unit, the control unit controls the adjusting unit to change the ratio from the first ratio to a second ratio at which the amount of the first part of the introduced air increases.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 22, 2013
    Publication date: November 7, 2013
    Applicant: SUZUKI MOTOR CORPORATION
    Inventors: Hideki HASHIGAYA, Kensuke MOMOSE
  • Patent number: 8573505
    Abstract: A method of heating an undercarriage of a machine featuring obtaining a thawing system with a hydraulic system functioning to heat hydraulic fluid and a first high pressure line and a second high pressure line each fluidly connected to the hydraulic system and each adapted to carry hydraulic fluid from the hydraulic system; operatively connecting the hydraulic system to a main engine of the machine; creating channels in the machine to allow passage of the first high pressure line and the second high pressure line from the hydraulic system to the undercarriage of the machine; and activating the system, wherein when the system is activated the hydraulic fluid is delivered to the undercarriage providing heat to the undercarriage for thawing purposes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2013
    Inventor: Dana A. Hennessy
  • Patent number: 8424776
    Abstract: The present application relates to auxiliary HVAC systems for vehicles. In some embodiments, an auxiliary climate control system for a vehicle comprises a blower and heat exchanger assembly including a blower, an evaporator, an air flow actuator, and a heater core. The blower and heat exchanger assembly has a generally ‘Z’ shaped configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2013
    Assignee: Behr America, Inc.
    Inventors: Rajesh Veettil, Tarun Malik, Derek F. Klima, Fernando de Campos
  • Patent number: 8403234
    Abstract: A compact hydronic space and water heating apparatus and system is disclosed for use in a recreational vehicle. A liquid heating medium, stored within a low pressure tank, is recirculated through a gas fired heater thereby maintaining a desired set point temperature. The liquid heating medium is further circulated through the vehicles hydronic space heaters to heat the interior of the vehicle. Further fresh domestic water is passed through a heat transfer coil within the tank whereby hot domestic water may be provided. An auxiliary heating device is attached to the tank whereby hot combustion engine coolant may assist in maintaining the temperature of the liquid heating medium within the tank and/or reversed to pre heat the combustion engine if and when needed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2013
    Inventor: Gerry Wolter
  • Publication number: 20130043320
    Abstract: A ventilating device comprising: at least one air guidance device, wherein the air guidance device has at least one channel segment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 14, 2012
    Publication date: February 21, 2013
    Applicant: W.E.T AUTOMOTIVE SYSTEMS AG
    Inventors: Jonathan Yu Zhang, Yand Yanbing Zhang, Beck Hailong Liang, Fred Fufei Zhang
  • Patent number: 8371512
    Abstract: A motor vehicle has a low exhaust heat engine (ME) for driving the driven wheels and a system for conditioning the air temperature of the passenger compartment (CAB). The conditioning system includes a reversible heat pump (PAC) which conditions in temperature respectively a distribution loop (DI) and an exhaust loop (RE) through which flows a coolant. The distribution loop (DI) is connected to an exchanger (H2) with the air entering the space compartment (CAB) and is connectable via an electromagnetic valve (EV1) to another exchanger (H1) with the air entering the passenger compartment (CAB). The exhaust loop (RE) is connected to an exchanger (F1) with the outside air. The exhaust loop being further connected to the engine (ME) for exchanging heat with the engine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2013
    Assignee: Dow Kokam France SAS
    Inventor: Alain Douarre
  • Patent number: 8356762
    Abstract: It is an object to effectively reduce minute clearances generated between a heat radiating member and a vehicle body and ensure good cooling performance while avoiding the occurrence of impact and noise caused by the vibration of a vehicle. A circuit unit U is mounted such that an outer surface 11B of the heat radiating member 10 to which the circuit body 30 is fixed faces a body surface S of the vehicle with a clearance. Preferably, the mounting part 12 fixed to the body of the vehicle is extended, the surface 13 of the mounting part 12 which is in contact with the body is positioned to be substantially parallel to the outer surface 11B of the heat radiating member and a step is provided in both surfaces 13, 11B. In a mounted state, the body and the outer surface 11B of the heat radiating member are facing each other in a substantially parallel state and a clearance is formed between the body and the outer surface of the heat radiating member over the entire area excluding the mounting part 12.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 22, 2013
    Assignees: Autonetworks Technologies Ltd., Sumitomo Wiring Systems, Ltd., Sumitomo Electric Industries, Ltd.
    Inventors: Tadashi Tomikawa, Shigeki Yamane, Tomoki Kano, Tsuyoshi Hosokawa, Futoshi Nishida
  • Publication number: 20130008971
    Abstract: An air conditioning apparatus for a ventilation, heating, and air conditioning of an interior of a vehicle with a foot vent, in which a shape of the foot vent is substantially rectangular with a dimension of the rectangular shape in a direction of travel of the vehicle larger than a dimension of the rectangular shape transverse to the direction of travel of the vehicle, the rectangular shape optimizing an installation space, an efficiency, and acoustics of the air conditioning apparatus.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 3, 2012
    Publication date: January 10, 2013
    Applicant: VISTEON GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
    Inventors: Gerald Richter, Juergen Hoppen, Raymond Ambs
  • Patent number: 8314364
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method for operating an electric add-heater in a motor vehicle having at least one rechargeable electrochemical cell as a power source and an electric generator which is connected with the cell and is driven by a drive engine of the motor vehicle and by which an electric add-heater can be supplied with current when the drive engine is running. It is provided according to the invention that in case of need the add-heater can be supplied with current even when no current is supplied by the generator, by switching over the add-heater to at least one electrochemical cell as a power source, monitoring the charging condition of at least one electrochemical cell, and interrupting the power supply of the electric add-heater realized by the at least one monitored electrochemical cell again when the charging condition of the at least one monitored electrochemical cell has dropped below a lower limit value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2012
    Assignee: BERU Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Jürgen Brust, Rolf Merte, Klaus Lehmann, Andreas Mulczet
  • Publication number: 20120286052
    Abstract: A system and method of engine thermal management. Energy may be received from a solar energy source electrically connected to a vehicle propulsion system. At least some of the energy from the solar energy source may be used to heat a component of the vehicle propulsion system. A control module may provide at least some of the energy from the solar energy source to a heater, for example, to heat a component of the vehicle propulsion system prior to starting the vehicle propulsion system. The heater may heat the vehicle propulsion system to temperatures within a predetermined range associated with optimal efficiency of the vehicle propulsion system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 11, 2011
    Publication date: November 15, 2012
    Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC
    Inventors: Venkata Prasad ATLURI, Kushal Narayanaswamy, Gerald A. Szekely, JR., Joel G. Toner, Paul M. Najt
  • Publication number: 20120204439
    Abstract: A heating apparatus for a vehicle having a chassis and a bulk load container mounted on the chassis. The apparatus includes a heating chamber for receiving the chassis, a heat source connected to the heating chamber for supplying heated gas to the chamber and a seal mounted to the heating chamber for substantially sealing the heating chamber about the chassis and the container, for guiding the heated gas along a floor and sides of the container to heat the container floor and sides.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 15, 2011
    Publication date: August 16, 2012
    Inventor: Michael KLOEPFER
  • Publication number: 20120118988
    Abstract: The present invention provides a heating system for a fuel cell vehicle, in which an additional heating source is used together with an electric heater to lower power consumption and increase fuel efficiency of prior systems. For this purpose the present invention provides a heating system for a fuel cell vehicle, the heating system including: an electric heater for heating air blown by a blower fan and supplied to the interior of the vehicle; and a heater core provided in a coolant line, through which coolant for cooling a fuel cell stack is circulated, and is used for heating the air, blown by the blower fan and supplied to the interior of the vehicle, by heat transfer between the coolant and the air, wherein the heater core is provided at the downstream side of the fuel cell stack in a coolant circulation path such that the air is heated by waste heat of the coolant discharged from the fuel cell stack.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 6, 2011
    Publication date: May 17, 2012
    Applicants: KIA MOTORS CORPORATION, HYUNDAI MOTOR COMPANY
    Inventors: Seung Yong Lee, Chi Myung Kim, Eung Young Kim, Gi Young Nam, Sung Wook Na, Hark Koo Kim, Kwang Ok Han, Kyoon Soo Lim, Yong Sun Park
  • Publication number: 20110192339
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to hull conversion of existing vessel for tank integration to allow storage of multiple hydrocarbon and non-hydrocarbon products onboard the existing vessel. In a converted vessel, a first liquefied hydrocarbon fluid may be stored in an added independent tank, while a second hydrocarbon fluid or a non-hydrocarbon fluid may be stored in an un-converted carge tank, which can be any one of a centre cargo tank, a port side tank or a starboard side tank.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 9, 2009
    Publication date: August 11, 2011
    Applicant: Keppel Offshore & Marine Technology Centre PTE Ltd
    Inventors: Yun Shui Chen, Wen sin Chong
  • Publication number: 20110114741
    Abstract: A mobile heating device, in particular a vehicle heating device, is provided. The mobile heating device comprises: a burner in which fuel and combustion air are convertible producing heat; a combustion air supply for supplying the combustion air to the burner; and an exhaust gas outlet for discharging combustion exhaust gases from the burner. A hydrocarbon storing element is arranged in the combustion air supply and/or in the exhaust gas outlet. Further, a combustion air supply sound absorber for a mobile heating device and an exhaust gas outlet sound absorber for a mobile heating device are provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 26, 2008
    Publication date: May 19, 2011
    Applicant: WEBASTO AG
    Inventor: Roland Kaindl
  • Patent number: 7934664
    Abstract: A compact hydronic space and water heating apparatus and system is disclosed for use in a recreational vehicle. A liquid heating medium, stored within a low pressure tank, is recirculated through a gas fired heater thereby maintaining a desired set point temperature. The liquid heating medium is further circulated through the vehicles hydronic space heaters to heat the interior of the vehicle. Further fresh domestic water is passed through a heat transfer coil within the tank whereby hot domestic water may be provided. An auxiliary heating device is attached to the tank whereby hot combustion engine coolant may assist in maintaining the temperature of the liquid heating medium within the tank and/or reversed to pre heat the combustion engine if and when needed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2011
    Inventor: Gerry Wolter
  • Patent number: 7883024
    Abstract: A hot water storage tank (3) and a circulating path (12) coupled to the hot water storage tank (3) are provided. An operation is possible wherein low-temperature water, let out from a lower part of the hot water storage tank (3) and entering the circulating path (12), is heated and boiled up by a heat pump heating source for forwarding to an upper part of the hot water storage tank (3). A refrigerant circulating circuit of the heat pump heating source is provided with a defrost circuit (38) for supplying hot gas from a compressor (25) to an air heat exchanger (28). It is possible to perform a defrost operation for providing a supply of hot gas to the air heat exchanger (28), with a water circulation pump (13) of the circulating path (12) held in abeyance. The water circulation pump (13) is made active if the defrost operation has been continued for not less than a predetermined time period since the start thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2011
    Assignee: Daikin Industries, Ltd.
    Inventors: Hiroshi Nakayama, Shinichi Sakamoto
  • Patent number: 7875354
    Abstract: An erosion system including a toughened resin for improving erosion resistance, the toughened resin including a resin and a toughening agent, and a support for retaining the toughened resin where at least one layer of the erosion system is applied to a component to provide from about a 50% increase to about a 400% increase in erosion resistance to the component per layer of the erosion system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2011
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Stephen Craig Mitchell, Andrew J. Brizgis, Donald George Lachapelle, Warren Rosal Ronk
  • Publication number: 20100258645
    Abstract: A vehicle seating system is provided in which infrared rays radiated from a surface of a thermal radiation member at the time of heating are emitted to a bodily portion of an occupant which extends from his or her head to shoulders for implementation of effective heading. In a case of a planar heating element 2 being installed above a side windowpane, the planar heating element 2 is installed so as to confront an upper body of an occupant who is seated in a seat which extends from his or her head to shoulders, and when the planar heating element 2 is energized, an upper body of the front-seat occupant can be warmed by radiation heat. In a case of a planar heating element 3 being installed in a center pillar portion, when the planar heating element 3 is energized, the upper body of the front-seat occupant can be warmed by radiation heat.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 17, 2008
    Publication date: October 14, 2010
    Applicant: Panasonic Corporation
    Inventors: Kazuaki Hioki, Koji Yoshimoto, Naohito Asami, Norio Abe, Satoshi Arima, Hideaki Konishi, Hiroyuki Ogino, Ryuta Kondou
  • Publication number: 20100205990
    Abstract: Disclosed is an integrated unit packaged on a vehicle for providing electricity, air-conditioning and heating to a space remote from the vehicle. The unit includes an electric generator system, a ventilation system, a refrigeration cycle system, each of which is powered by the electric generator system, a heater that is also powered by the electric generator system and electrical outlets that are also powered by the electric generator.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 18, 2010
    Publication date: August 19, 2010
    Inventors: Irvin L. French, Samuel D. Markel
  • Publication number: 20090230204
    Abstract: The invention relates to a fuel-powered vehicle heating (10) with a first burner (12). According to the invention, the vehicle heating comprises at least one second burner (14). By means of the above large power ranges can be covered by several burners with comparatively small heating power steps.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 28, 2005
    Publication date: September 17, 2009
    Inventors: Michael Pöhner, Uwe Strecker, Markus Griner, Andreas Rutsche
  • Publication number: 20090179080
    Abstract: An HVAC system to be installed in a vehicle may comprise at least one power source; a plurality of heating devices; and a component controller. The component controller may be configured to operate a selected portion of the plurality of heating devices based on user preferences stored in the component controller, available power from the at least one power source, and a desired set point temperature.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 30, 2008
    Publication date: July 16, 2009
    Inventor: Gerald Allen Alston
  • Publication number: 20090130965
    Abstract: The components used in this invention has never been utilized in this special type of arrangement ever before. This “Climate Control for Parked Automobiles” does not exist and cannot be found anywhere. Once available to the public it will be very helpful and will help stranded passengers and/or pets inside the automobile during warm summer days, and to drivers returning to their warm vehicles during cold winter days.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 17, 2007
    Publication date: May 21, 2009
    Inventor: Antonio Martin Galvez-Ramos
  • Publication number: 20090033058
    Abstract: A heated step system for a vehicle having a heat source associated with a compartment. The system includes a step attached to an exterior portion of the vehicle and at least one aperture located near the step. The system further includes a duct having a first end in fluid communication with the compartment and a second end in fluid communication with the at least one aperture. The duct conveys warm air from the compartment to the at least one aperture so that the warm air passes through the at least one aperture to an area around the step, thereby warming the step.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 1, 2007
    Publication date: February 5, 2009
    Applicant: PACCAR INC
    Inventors: Ben VanderGriend, Alec Wong, Jason Johnson
  • Publication number: 20090008466
    Abstract: A heater (10), especially a motor vehicle heater (10), which has device for determining the temperature and/or which works as overheating protection. It is provided that the device for determining the temperature and/or the work as overheating protection has a flow sensor (12) which works according to the calorimetric measurement principle. Furthermore, the flow sensor (12) which works according to the calorimetric measurement principle is used as a temperature sensor for determining the temperature and/or for making available overheating protection.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 11, 2005
    Publication date: January 8, 2009
    Applicant: Webasto AG
    Inventors: Hans-Michael Wardenga, Dino Horning