Convective heating device

Abstract

A heating device comprises a heater having a first surface and a second surface, with the second surface being generally opposite of the first surface. The heater is configured to receive an electrical current and convert it to heat. The heating device additionally includes at least one heat transfer assembly positioned along the first and / or second surface of the heater. In one embodiment, the heat transfer assembly includes a plurality of fins that generally define a plurality of fin spaces through which fluids may pass. In some arrangements, the heating device comprises an outer housing that at least partially surrounds the heater and one or more of the heat transfer assemblies. Heat generated by the heater is transferred to the fins of the heat transfer assembly. In addition, fluids passing through the fin spaces are selectively heated when electrical current is provided to the heater.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]This application is a continuation application of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12 / 695,602 filed Jan. 28, 2010, which claims the priority benefit under 35 U.S.C. §119(e) of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61 / 148,019, filed Jan. 28, 2009, the entireties of both of which are hereby incorporated by reference herein.BACKGROUND[0002]1. Field of the Inventions[0003]This application generally relates to heating devices and systems, and more specifically, to convective heating devices and systems configured for use in climate controlled (e.g., heated, ventilated, etc.) seating assemblies.[0004]2. Description of the Related Art[0005]Temperature modified air for environmental control of an automobile, other vehicles or any other living or working space is typically provided to relatively extensive areas, such as an entire automobile interior, selected offices or suites of rooms within a building (e.g., houses, hospitals, office buildings...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The present patent application describes a heating device for convectively heating a fluid. The heating device includes a heater with a first surface and a second surface, and a heat transfer assembly positioned along at least one of the surfaces. The heat transfer assembly includes a plurality of fins that define a plurality of fin spaces between them. The heating device also includes an outer housing that at least partially surrounds the heater and the heat transfer assembly. The heating device can be used in various seating assemblies, such as vehicle seats, office chairs, beds, sofas, and wheelchairs. The technical effect of the heating device is to provide efficient heat transfer to the fluid by using the fins to create a large surface area for heat transfer, resulting in faster heating of the fluid.

Problems solved by technology

For example, a vehicle seat, chair or other seat assembly situated in a cold environment can be uncomfortable to the occupant.

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