Abstract: A vehicle seat has a back rest, a head restraint, which is adjustable in the height and which has a head cushion, and a ventilation device, whose exhaust vent for blowing out a warm airflow is arranged on the upper side of the back rest. The vehicle seat that has a construction that is simplified and aesthetically pleasing and that is characterized in that a diverting mechanism is provided in a lower area of the head restraint and is integrated into the head cushion. The warm airflow issuing from the exhaust vent is diverted into the head and/or neck area of a seat passenger via this diverting mechanism.

Abstract: There is disclosed an insert suitable for use within a seating system of an automotive vehicle.

Abstract: The invention relates to a seat for a means of transport, having a supporting structure (1, 2, 3, 4), on which seating surface (5) and backrest (6) are mounted, and having a seat crossbeam (3, 4) of hollow design. The invention provides for the cavity of the seat crossbeam (3, 4) to contain electrical and/or electronic components (7).

Abstract: There is disclosed an insert suitable for use within a seating system of an automotive vehicle.

Abstract: There is disclosed an insert suitable for use within a seating system of an automotive vehicle. More particularly an insert for a ventilated seat, the insert including a forward layer, a rearward layer, a spacer material intermediate of the forward layer and the rearward layer, and an air moving member that includes a fan and a housing, and is attached to an outer surface of the rearward layer.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for providing controlled heating, cooling and motion, in a device such as an active robotic automobile seat, are disclosed. A shape memory alloy (SMA) element, which changes shape upon application of a temperature change to the SMA element, is coupled to a thermoelectric device. Heat flows through the TED upon application of an electrical current through the TED. The apparatus is operable in one of a plurality of modes. In a first mode, a current is applied through the TED to cause a temperature change in the SMA element to change the shape of the SMA element. In a second mode, a current is applied to the TED to cause heat flow in a space adjacent to the apparatus. By controlling application of current to the TED, controlled motion, heating and cooling are achieved in the seat.

Abstract: The invention relates to a heated cushion (100) for a vehicle seat, comprising an upper part (110) having a first and a second main surface and a lower part (130) having a first and a second main surface. The parts (110, 130) are arranged with their first main surfaces one against the other and on one first main surface there is disposed a heating coil (120). The upper part (110) and the lower part (130), on their respective first main surfaces, each have one half (115, 135) of a fastening system in Velcro material, and the heating coil (120) is secured in its main surface by the Velcro elements (115, 135) of the main surface. Expediently, at least one part (110, 130) is made in a fabric material.

Abstract: A vehicle seat is provided. The vehicle seat includes a sheet-like sensor member, a sheet-like electric device, and a seat main body configuring a sitting portion and including therein the sensor member and the electric device while overlapping each other. The electric device is provided between a pad member which forms a cushion element of the seat main body and a skin cover which covers an outer surface side of the pad member, and the sensor member is provided between the electric device and the skin cover. The electric device is formed with a through hole, so that a measuring circuit unit which is wired and connected to the sensor member is provided in an inner surface side of the electric device, and the measuring circuit unit is accommodated in a recessed portion formed in the pad member.

Abstract: A climate controlled seat assembly comprises a chamber defined by a substantially fluid impermeable layer, the fluid impermeable layer having a first side and second side, the first side comprising a plurality of openings, a support structure positioned within the chamber, the support structure being configured to substantially maintain the shape of the chamber, a fluid transfer device configured to provide a volume of fluid to the chamber, a fluid inlet in fluid communication with both the chamber and the fluid transfer device, a fluid distribution layer positioned adjacent to the first side of the fluid impermeable layer and a seat covering positioned along the fluid distribution layer. In some embodiments, the fluid distribution layer is configured to generally distribute fluid from the openings toward the seat covering.

Abstract: A device (2) for accommodating functional elements in regions of a motor vehicle interior that are subjected to mechanical forces at least at times, having a base layer (8), an intermediate layer (10) and a cover layer (12), wherein the layers (8, 10, 12) are arranged so as to at least partially overlap one another, wherein the intermediate layer (10) has at least one support element (14) for the transmission of mechanical loads between the base layer (8) and cover layer (12), which element is made, in particular, of a firm but flexible material. In addition to the support element (14), additional functional elements (18) are arranged in the remaining space (16) between the base layer (8), the cover layer (12) and the support element (14).

Abstract: A climate control system and method controls climate at selected regions within a passenger compartment of a vehicle. The thermoelectric system includes a plurality of thermoelectric assemblies. The system includes at least one fluid conduit configured to allow a liquid to flow in the at least one fluid conduit. The system further includes a plurality of thermoelectric assemblies. At least two thermoelectric assemblies of the plurality of thermoelectric assemblies are in thermal communication with the liquid and each of the at least two thermoelectric assemblies has a corresponding region within the passenger compartment. The at least two thermoelectric assemblies are selectively operable to transfer heat between the corresponding region and the liquid, wherein the at least two thermoelectric assemblies are each operable independently from one another.

Abstract: A heating device is formed from an electrically conducting, flexible resistance material of carbon fibers arranged between at least two electrodes provided for electrical contacting. The carbon fibers are stretch-broken carbon fiber yarns with a titer of 30 tex to 800 tex and a resistivity of 100 to 600 ?/m.

Abstract: A passenger seat device includes a detector electrode for detecting occupancy of the seat, a seat heater powered by an on-board electric power source, and a waterproof sheet for preventing water permeated into the seat from reaching the seat heater. Whether the seat is occupied or not is detected based on changes in an impedance coupled to the detector electrode. The impedance is affected by the water if it reaches the seat heater, and a sensitivity of the occupancy detection is adversely affected. A shielding electrode insulated from the detector electrode and disposed between the detector electrode and the seat heater may be provided to reduce an amount of parasitic capacitance formed between the detector electrode and the seat heater. An alternating voltage may be supplied to the detector electrode and the shielding electrode.

Abstract: A climate control device includes a first and a second thermal module. The first module is configured to provide climate conditioned air to a first portion of a seat. The second module is configured to provide climate conditioned air to a second portion of the seat. A control system is provided for controlling the climate control device. The control system includes an input device for providing a set point for the system. A first control unit of the control system is provided for the first thermal module and a second control unit is provided for the second thermal module.

Abstract: There is disclosed an insert suitable for placement within a seat of an automotive vehicle. The insert preferably includes multiple layers, one of which includes a heater for providing an occupant of the seat with warmth. The insert also preferably includes a blower or air pump for providing ventilation and/or cooling to the seat occupant.

Abstract: A seat assembly including a seat cushion, a heating element, a heating circuit, a occupant sensing circuit, and an isolation circuit. The seat cushion has a seating surface, the heating element is adjacent the seating surface and is formed of electrically conductive material. The heating circuit is coupled to the heating element for supplying electrical current to the heating element for generating heat. The occupant sensing circuit is also coupled to the heating element for sensing the presence of an occupant near the heating element. The isolation circuit is interposed between the heating circuit and the heating element for isolating the heating circuit from the occupant sensing circuit.

Abstract: The present invention discloses an air supply mechanism for a vehicle seat (12), and a method for the operation thereof. The air supply mechanism comprises a control device (24), for driving a fan (38) and a heating element (39) connected downstream of the fan (38). When the air supply mechanism is switched on, the control device (24) switches on a heating element (39) and at the same time carries out a starting control of a fan (38) in such a manner that the fan (38) starts and is operated at minimum blower speed for a predetermined period of time before the blower speed is raised to a predetermined working point and subsequently the blower speed is regulated as a function of the driving speed. In this manner, a seat occupant does not experience an initial sensation of draft due to a powerful discharge of relatively cold air but rather experiences a pleasant warmth even directly after the mechanism is switched on.

Abstract: A heat radiation mechanism that radiates heat from an electrical storage device disposed in a space under a seat installed in the passenger compartment, having a guide surface for directing the heat from the electrical storage device out of the space. The guide surface is inclined with respect to a vertical direction of the seat, and an end of the guide surface farthest from the electrical storage device in the vertical direction of the member is located in the vicinity of an outer face of the seat.

Abstract: A conduit for a climate controlled seat assembly. A first port is at a first end of the body and is in communication with the fluid passage. A second port is at a second end of the body and is in communication with the fluid passage, An attachment device comprising a base that is coupled to the body and a strap that is configured to be wrapped around a wire bundle and be secured to the base.

Abstract: An automotive vehicle includes a seat assembly with one or more seat outlets for exhausting conditioned air to an occupant seat therein. A HVAC assembly operates in a warm-up mode and a cool-down for generating heated and cooled air to achieve a predetermined air temperature. An air selection module controls airflow from the HVAC assembly to air ducts for delivering air from the air selection module to the seat assembly. At least one seat valve moveable between open and closed positions controls air flow from the air selection module to one or more seat ducts. A purge valve moveable between open and closed positions vents air from the air selection module. The vehicle further includes a control system for closing the purge valve and opening at least one seat valve in response to the air temperature of the air from the HVAC assembly being at least the predetermined air temperature.

Abstract: According to some embodiments disclosed in the present application, a climate control device configured for use with a seating assembly includes a fluid module having a fluid transfer device. The climate control device further comprises a fluid duct in fluid communication with the fluid module, wherein the fluid duct includes a distal end. The additional includes at least one outlet opening positioned at the distal end of the fluid duct. In some arrangements, the fluid duct is configured to be positioned at, near or through a seat bite area of the seating assembly. In other arrangements, the fluid module is configured to selectively transfer air to or from the at least one outlet opening through the fluid duct.

Abstract: A planar heating element for a motor vehicle seat includes a plurality of heating conductors connected to at least one electrical contact conductor strip, which is to be joined to a power source. The contact conductor strip itself comprises an electrically conductive, nonwoven textile fabric.

Abstract: A vehicle seat has a backrest with a vertically adjustable headrest, and a device for warming the nape and head area of a seat occupant with warm air. The device comprises an electric heating unit and an air vent which is arranged in an intermediate space between the backrest and head cushion of the headrest. In order to obtain a warm air heating device which i) is of low overall volume, ii) can be integrated satisfactorily into the seat, iii) is efficient and iv) does not disrupt the esthetics of the vehicle seat and/or of the passenger cell, the electric heating unit, and preferably also a blower, are integrated in the air vent.

Abstract: An electric auxiliary heating unit reliably avoids temperature overshoots of the heated air. To this end, the temperature of the air flowing into the heating is determined and converted into a heating power for controlling the heating elements. This is preferably done via a stored characteristic field via which a plurality of vehicle parameters, such as the vehicle speed, the opening condition of the convertible top, etc., can be taken into account. Also the temperature of the incoming air can be derived from temperature values which are already available in the vehicle. A user-friendly electric heating can be realized very easily in this way. Temperature fluctuations in the heated air can be avoided reliably and easily even in the case of dynamically varying operating conditions of the motor vehicle.

Abstract: A vehicle seating system can be used within a variety of vehicles to reduce positional fatigue and other effects of long distance traveling. Such a system includes a typical vehicle seat mountable in a vehicle, at least two powered seat energizer members, including at least one thermal energizer, and an electrical controller. The energizer members are activated to alter the seating condition created by the seat, thereby impacting circulation and reducing fatigue experienced by a vehicle traveler.

Abstract: There is disclosed an insert suitable for use within a seating system of an automotive vehicle.

Abstract: A vehicle seat including a seat back and a seat bottom. The seat bottom includes a seat cushion covered by a trim covering material. The trim covering material is connected to a support structure embedded in the seat cushion. An electrically powered auxiliary device is located between the seat cushion and the trim covering material and is removably attached to the support structure.

Abstract: A motor vehicle seat with a seat heater comprises at least one heating element with metallic heating and/or contact conductors which are uninsulated or insulated with thin paint layers and which are applied to a carrier material. A textile layer with a liquid-repellent impregnation formed by an impregnating agent is arranged between the surface of the seat in contact with the user and the heating and/or contact conductors.

Abstract: A heating device for a seat exhibiting excellent durability, reliability, safety and enhanced workability in fixing work to a seat while reducing the cost and weight and ensuring comfortable feeling at seating without causing a strange feeling. The heating device for a seat comprises a heating matter (4) including a base substance (2) and a heating wire (3) arranged on the base substance, a temperature detection element (5) for detecting temperature of the heating matter, and a temperature control circuit (1) for controlling temperature of the heating matter based on the output from the temperature detection element, characterized in that the temperature detection element and the temperature control circuit are arranged at predetermined positions on the base substance. The temperature control circuit is insulation-covered together with a part of lead wires connected to the temperature control circuit.

Abstract: A device (3) for climate control of a motor vehicle seat (20) with a cushion core (22) for the support of a passenger, having an upper air distribution device (25) at the front side (27) of the cushion core (22) facing the passenger to distribute air along the front side (27) of the cushion core (22), and having a lower air distribution device (32) at its rear side (30) facing away from the passenger to distribute air along the rear side (27) of the cushion core (22), having a connecting device (35) to transfer air between the first and second air distribution devices (25, 32). Each of the three devices (25, 32, 35) has an elongated hollow space (37), and at least one support element (14) in the form of a spiral spring is provided in the air-conducting cross-section of at least one such hollow space (37).

Abstract: An aromatherapy chair for providing natural relaxation, rejuvenation and healing for the individual's mind, body, and soul by heating herbal ingredients placed in proximity to various parts, areas, regions, and limbs of the individual's body includes an eye and sinus coverings, a pair of neck and shoulder wraps, a pair of elbow and hand therapy gloves, a back therapy pad, a pair of knee, leg, and foot boots, and a pair of thigh wraps into which the herbal ingredients are disposed and through which wiring extends for heating the herbal ingredients for relaxing and healing the areas and limbs that are covered by and inserted and enclosed within the various coverings, pads and wraps with regular house current and batteries providing energy to a thermal heating element that regulates and conducts heat to and through the wiring and the type of herbal ingredients being specific to each particular area, region, appendage or limb to be relaxed and healed.

Abstract: The technical disclosures of the invention are as follows: The chair is heated, with the heating element being powered by a battery, which is attached to the heating element through a power cord. The chair is mobile and portable for two reasons: 1. Because it is powered by a battery, and 2. Because it is mounted on wheels, easily moved from location to, location. The chair is equipped with an on/off switch, which enables the user to turn the battery power on and off to preserve the battery. The on/off switch, is located and mounted on the plastic case which protects the battery from weather. This plastic case is then protected and harbored in a wooden box, mounted to the metal chair frame. The chair is portable and heated, and like no other invention to date, it can be used miles from any external power source.

Abstract: An air supply device for a vehicle seat has an air channel arranged on the pressure side of a blower. The channel comprises at least one air discharge opening provided in the upper region of the seat for supplying the head, shoulder and neck area of an occupant of the seat with an adjustable airflow. A heating element is arranged in the air channel between the blower and the air discharge opening. In order to provide the air supply device with an airflow which feels more comfortable to the occupant of the seat, a grid element is arranged inside the air channel between the air discharge opening and the heating element. As a result, the airflow emerging from the air discharge opening is homogenized and slowed down, and this slowing-down allows more heat to be transferred to the airflow from the heating element.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a combination heater and occupant sensor device that may be used in an automobile seat. The device will heat a seat and sense the mass of an occupant in the seat. The device provides the ability to combine occupant sensors with a seat heater without damaging the sensors or obtaining incorrect sensor readings. The sensor results may be processed and used to control air bag deployment, for example, or to indicate if the seat belt of an occupied seat is not being employed. To provide flexibility of the device during use, the device may be formed on a polymer substrate and configured to include apertures throughout. In addition, in the heating portion of the device, conductive material may be blended in a polymer and the device may be configured to limit conductor cracking after repeated flexing of the device thus extending the life of the device.

Abstract: The seating element has an electrically insulative substrate, a pair of electrodes disposed on the substrate, and a polymer resistor electrically connected to the electrodes. The polymer resistor includes resin composition cross-linked via one of oxygen atom and nitrogen atom, and at least one of fibrous conductor and flake-like conductor mixed in the resin composition.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for adjusting an airflow of an air supply device for a vehicle seat, in particular of a cabriolet, are provided. At an outside temperature which is greater than a predetermined limit temperature, the heating element of the air supply device may be deactivated.

Abstract: A vehicle seat assembly includes a seating surface, wherein the seating surface defines a plurality of temperature controlled zones. At least one electrically actuated heating/cooling source provides one of heating and cooling to the plurality of zones. A controller individually controls electrical power supplied from the source to each zone and is operative to reduce power consumption in one zone relative to another zone in accordance with a predetermined profile designed to limit the overall power consumption of the assembly.

Abstract: The present invention is an improved ski lift. The ski lift contains a solar power source which is attached to one or more heating elements. The heating elements heat a passenger's hands during transit up the mountain. As a result, the passenger is made more comfortable during transit, increasing his or her overall skiing experience.

Abstract: A modular comfort assembly is disclosed. The modular comfort assembly is adapted for installation within an occupant support. The occupant support includes a surface, which has a recess therein. The modular comfort assembly includes a ventilation diffuser allowing for flow of air through the diffuser. The diffuser has an outer edge sized to extend over and cover a perimeter of the recess. The modular comfort assembly also has a heating element adapted for placement on a surface of the diffuser.

Abstract: A heater system for an aircraft seat includes a first heater pad secured to the bottom seat cushion and a second heater pad secured to the back seat cushion, with both pads being under an upholstery cover. The first and second heater pads each has a body of an open cell foam material that is self flame extinguishing, and an electric resistance wire embedded in a winding pattern within the body. A control module applies a variable electric current to the electric resistance wire in each of the first and second heater pads. Preferably only the second heater pad for the back seat cushion can be activated or both the first and second heater pads can be activated. A pushbutton switch module allows the seat occupant step the control module through a sequence of different heating levels.

Abstract: There is disclosed a comfort system suitable for use in a seat of an automotive vehicle. The system preferably includes an air mover in fluid communication with an open space below a trim layer of the seat for providing ventilation, heating and/or cooling to the seat occupant.

Abstract: A heating apparatus includes a carbon fiber heating layer placed in a positioning jacket which is mounted in a seat cushion, a conducting coupler electrically connected to the carbon fiber heating layer, and a control switch electrically connected to the conducting coupler. Thus, when the connector of the control switch is attached to the conducting coupler, and the plug of the control switch is inserted into the cigarette lighter of the car, the electric current from the car battery in turn flows through the control switch, the conducting coupler and the conducting cord into the carbon fiber bundles which produce an impedance to convert the electrical energy into a heat energy to heat the seat cushion to warm the user seated on the seat cushion, thereby providing a comfortable sensation to the user.

Abstract: There is disclosed a sealed edge insert suitable for placement within a seat of an automotive vehicle. The insert includes multiple layers, one of which includes a heater for providing an occupant of the seat with warmth. The insert also includes an air mover (e.g., a fan) for providing ventilation to the seat occupant. Further, the insert includes an extension that extends to a backside of a cushion component of the seat for attachment to provide fluid communication from the insert to the air mover.

Abstract: An air supply mechanism for a vehicle seat has an air discharging opening which is provided in the upper region of the vehicle seat and via which the head, shoulder, and neck region of a seat occupant can be subjected to an airflow in order to reduce undesirable draft phenomena. The airflow can be regulated with a control device, by regulating a blower speed of a fan, and can be heated via a heating element. The heating element has three heating stages which can be selected by a manually setting a regulating device by the seat occupant in order to select a heating stage and/or by the control device in response to an external parameter value. It is possible for the control device to regulate the blower speed of the fan in response to a further external parameter value. This construction makes it possible for the sensation of heat experienced by the seat occupant to be taken into account in the elimination of a sensation of a draft.

Abstract: This invention relates to a module (30) for installation inside, in contact with or near a cushion element (20), a cushion element, a connecting means (60, 70) for a cushion element (20) and/or a module (30), and a padded object (5) having at least one module (30). Provision is made for the module (30) to feature at least a first connecting means (60) that corresponds to at least a second, at least partially matching, connecting means (70) of the cushion element (20).

Abstract: There is disclosed a sealed edge insert suitable for placement within a seat of an automotive vehicle. The insert includes multiple layers, one of which includes a heater for providing an occupant of the seat with warmth. The insert also includes an air mover (e.g., a fan) for providing ventilation to the seat occupant. Further, the insert includes an extension that extends to a backside of a cushion component of the seat for attachment to provide fluid communication from the insert to the air mover.

Abstract: A heating apparatus includes a carbon fiber heating layer placed in a positioning jacket which is mounted in a seat cushion, a conducting coupler electrically connected to the carbon fiber heating layer, and a control switch electrically connected to the conducting coupler. Thus, when the connector of the control switch is attached to the conducting coupler, and the plug of the control switch is inserted into the cigarette lighter of the car, the electric current from the car battery in turn flows through the control switch, the conducting coupler and the conducting cord into the carbon fiber bundles which produce an impedance to convert the electrical energy into a heat energy to heat the seat cushion to warm the user seated on the seat cushion, thereby providing a comfortable sensation to the user.

Abstract: A padded seating cushion having a main section at the front end and a pair of arms extending rearwardly therefrom to define a generally U-shaped aperture open and extending to the rear of the cushion to support the user's ischial portions while alleviating direct pressure on the coccyx. The arms define an inner section having inner side walls defining a thermal transfer chamber in which a thermal transfer unit is placed to selectively provide heat or cold for the user. The thermal transfer unit attaches to a lower chamber member that attaches to the arms. The thermal transfer unit comprises a thermal unit disposed in a thermal container, preferably in the form of a pouch. The cushion attaches to a seat with removably attached straps connected to ring members on each side of the cushion, providing a padded surface that does not shift with the movements of the user.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a ventilated seat having an insert with a seat portion, and having a flow control layer with first and second ports, a spacer having an inlay and a main portion, and a first fluid barrier where the inlay is substantially isolated from the main portion by a fluid-tight boundary. The present invention also relates to a ventilated seat having an insert with a seat portion and having a first flow control layer with at least one port, a first and a second spacer, and a fluid barrier comprising at least one port. The present invention also relates to a ventilated seat with an insert having a seat portion and having a flow control layer with a port and a plurality of flow holes in the seat portion, a spacer, a fluid barrier and at least one conduit with a plurality of flow holes located adjacent to the seat portion of the flow control layer. The seat also may include a fan in fluid communication with the spacer and a fluid conditioning device.

Abstract: A passenger seat device includes a detector electrode for detecting occupancy of the seat, a seat heater powered by an on-board electric power source, and a waterproof sheet for preventing water permeated into the seat from reaching the seat heater. Whether the seat is occupied or not is detected based on changes in an impedance coupled to the detector electrode. The impedance is affected by the water if it reaches the seat heater, and a sensitivity of the occupancy detection is adversely affected. A shielding electrode insulated from the detector electrode and disposed between the detector electrode and the seat heater may be provided to reduce an amount of parasitic capacitance formed between the detector electrode and the seat heater. An alternating voltage may be supplied to the detector electrode and the shielding electrode.