Rapid cooling and heating of car seats with massaging effects
US7731279B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignees
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 8, 2006 |
| Grant date | Jun 8, 2010 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 15, 2028 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61H2205/10
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
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.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.