Vehicle, cooling apparatus, and cooling method

There are provided a vehicle, a cooling apparatus, and a cooling method. The vehicle includes passenger space to accommodate a user gets, a tank to store the compressed air, and a control unit to release the compressed air stored in the tank into the passenger space. The passenger space is cooled by discharging the compressed air into the passenger space.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application claims priority from Japanese Patent Application Nos. 2011-215658, 2011-215663, and 2011-215665, filed on Sep. 29, 2011, the entire contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to a vehicle, a cooling apparatus, and a cooling method, which cool passenger space of a vehicle such as an automobile or the like.

2. Description of the Related Art

A vehicle such as an automobile or the like commonly has an air conditioning apparatus which starts a cooling operation to cool the passenger space thereof, when a user gets in the vehicle and starts its engine by operating an ignition key.

With such an existing air conditioning apparatus, a cooling cycle is started when a user gets in the vehicle and operates the ignition key to start the engine. Accordingly, time delay occurs until the passenger space is actually cooled. Therefore, in a situation where, for example, a vehicle is parked under the burning sun, its passenger space is heated, and thus a user has to endure the hot passenger space until the passenger space is cooled.

In order to solve such an existing problem, Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication (JP-A) Nos. 2006-168476, 2010-216739, 2008-296901, 2007-168466, 2008-183996, and 2005-238911 have disclosed techniques for releasing the compressed air into passenger space. In addition, JP-A No. 2007-297965 has disclosed a power generation and air cooling system taking advantage of pressure and heat of emission gas.

At the time of releasing such compressed air into passenger space, there are conditions to be considered regarding storing and releasing periods of the compressed air.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention has been made in the light of such a situation, and aims to provide a cooling apparatus that is capable of performing suitable storing and releasing of the compressed air.

A first aspect of the present invention provides a vehicle including: passenger space that accommodates a user; a tank that is capable of storing the compressed air; and a control unit to release the compressed air stored in the tank into the passenger space. Storing of the compressed air into the tank is carried out when there is no user within the passenger space.

The vehicle may further include a detector to detect whether or not there is a user within the passenger space. In addition, according to information from the detector the control unit may determine that there is no user within the passenger space to start storing of the compressed air as to the tank.

The control unit may stop storing of the compressed air into the tank when a user gets into the vehicle during storing of the compressed air.

The control unit may release the compressed air stored in the tank into the passenger space when a user gets into the vehicle after storing of the compressed air into the tank is completed, and further the tank is cooled.

A second aspect of the present invention provides a cooling apparatus to cool passenger space of a vehicle that accommodates a user. The cooling apparatus includes: a tank that is capable of storing the compressed air; a detector to detect whether or not there is a user in the passenger space; and a control unit to release the compressed air stored in the tank into the passenger space. Storing of the compressed air into the tank is carried out when it is determined that there is no user in the passenger space, according to information from the detector.

A third aspect of the present invention provides a cooling method for a cooling apparatus to store the compressed air for cooling passenger space of a vehicle that accommodates a user into a tank. The cooling method includes the steps of: determining that there is no user in the passenger space, according to information from a detector; storing the compressed air in the tank; and releasing the compressed air stored in the tank into the passenger space at the time of boarding.

A fourth aspect of the present invention provides a vehicle including: passenger space that accommodates a user; a tank that is capable of storing the compressed air; and a control unit to release the compressed air stored in the tank into the passenger space, The control unit releases the compressed air stored in the tank into the passenger space during the period lasted before and after a user's boarding.

The control unit may start releasing from the tank before a user's boarding regarding the compressed air stored in the tank, and release the compressed air in stages so as to end releasing from the tank after a user's boarding.

The control unit may release, before a user's boarding, the high-pressure compressed air from the tank, and release, after a user's boarding, the low-pressure compressed air remaining in the tank after releasing of the high-pressure compressed air.

The control unit may release, after a user gets into the vehicle and further the pressure of the passenger space starts to decrease, the low-pressure compressed air remaining in the tank.

The control unit may suppress releasing amount at the time of releasing the low-pressure compressed air remaining in the tank.

A fifth aspect of the present invention provides a cooling apparatus to cool passenger space of a vehicle that accommodates a user. The cooling apparatus includes: a tank that is capable of storing the compressed air; and a control unit to release the compressed air stored in the tank into the passenger space. The control unit releases the compressed air stored in the tank into the passenger space during the period lasted before and after a user's boarding.

A sixth aspect of the present invention provides a cooling method for a cooling apparatus to store the compressed air for cooling passenger space of a vehicle that accommodates a user into a tank. The cooling method includes the steps of: storing the compressed air in the tank; and releasing the compressed air stored in the tank into the passenger space during the period lasted before and after a user's boarding.

A seventh aspect of the present invention provides a vehicle including: passenger space that accommodates a user; a tank that is capable of storing the compressed air; and a control unit to release the compressed air stored in the tank into the passenger space. The control unit releases, after a user's boarding, the compressed air into the passenger space.

The control unit may determine a user's boarding by detecting whether or not there is a user in the passenger space.

The control unit may detect whether or not there is a user in the passenger space, using at least one of a detection signal of a seat-belt wearing sensor or seat sensor, an image of in-vehicle monitor camera, and presence confirmation of a smart key within the vehicle.

An discharge vent of the compressed air in the passenger space may be provided. assuming that space occupied by the passenger when a passenger sits down in the passenger space is defined as first passenger space, and space other than the first passenger space in the passenger space is defined as second passenger space, the discharge vent of the compressed air releases the compressed air into the second passenger space.

The discharge vent may be provided within an in-vehicle facility provided to the passenger space. Alternatively, the discharge vent may be provided either one of toward the inner side face of the vehicle making up the passenger space and toward an in-vehicle facility.

The control unit may confirm, before releasing the compressed air, whether or not passenger space and outer ventilation, and release, after securing the ventilating air, the compressed air into the passenger space.

When the vent hole has been secured, the control unit may release the compressed air, and then close the vent hole.

The control unit may secure the vent hole by opening a window glass or door of the vehicle, and, alternatively, the vent hole by changing an air conditioning apparatus provided to the vehicle to an external air introduction mode.

The compressed air obtained by absorbing and compressing the inner air of the passenger space may be stored in the tank.

An eighth aspect of the present invention provides a cooling apparatus to cool passenger space of a vehicle that accommodates a user. The cooling apparatus includes: a tank that is capable of storing the compressed air; and a control unit to release the compressed air stored in the tank into the passenger space. The control unit releases the compressed air into the passenger space after a user's boarding.

A ninth aspect of the present invention provides a cooling method for a cooling apparatus to store the compressed air for cooling passenger space of a vehicle that accommodates a user into a tank. The cooling method includes the steps of: storing the compressed air in the tank; and releasing the compressed air stored in the tank into the passenger space after a user's boarding.

With the present invention, the compressed air stored in a tank is released into passenger space. The passenger space is cooled by the compressed air released into the passenger space. As a result thereof, with the present invention, the inside of the vehicle can immediately be cooled.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

First Embodiment

FIG. 1is a partial transparent side view of an automobile101employing a cooling apparatus according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

The automobile101inFIG. 1includes a vehicle body102. The central portion of the vehicle body102includes passenger space3that accommodates a user. Two rows of seats4where a user sits down are provided within the passenger space3. A door panel5which the user opens/closes for boarding is provided to the side face of the passenger space3of the vehicle body102. A window glass6is provided on the upper portion of the door panel5in a vertically movable manner. The user can sit in the seat4by opening/closing the door panel5. The user can open/close the window glass6by operating an opening/closing switch provided in the inner side of the door panel5.

The passenger space3becomes, in a state in which the door panel5and window glass6are closed, space isolated from the outside. With such passenger space3, room temperature is significantly increased, for example, due to hot solar radiation in the summer or the like. Also, surface temperature of interior equipment such as the seats4and so forth is also increased, and accordingly, as for the user, the passenger space3has to rapidly be cooled.

With the common automobile101, the user who has got into the vehicle operates an ignition key to start the engine, to activate an air conditioning apparatus, and to drive a compressor along therewith, and accordingly, a cooling cycle of the air conditioning apparatus is activated, and accordingly, the air in the passenger space3is cooled.

However, in the event of cooling the passenger space3using the air conditioning apparatus in this way, the air in the passenger space3is immediately cooled using heat-exchange equipment, and accordingly, it takes time until the passenger space3is cooled after the user's boarding. Therefore, with the present embodiment, a cooling apparatus110is employed that rapidly cools the passenger space by releasing the compressed air into the passenger space before a user who intends to get into the vehicle gets into the vehicle.

FIG. 2is a configuration diagram of the cooling apparatus110to be mounted on the automobile101inFIG. 1. With the cooling apparatus110inFIG. 2, the passenger space3is cooled by releasing the compressed air into the passenger space3inFIG. 1.

The cooling apparatus110includes a compressor111, an air intake duct112, an air intake valve113, a tank114, an discharge air duct115, an discharge valve116, and a controller117. The cooling apparatus110includes a pressure sensor120to detect pressure of the compressed air in the tank114, a temperature sensor121to detect temperature of the compressed air in the tank114, and a passenger detector which are not illustrated in the drawing. InFIG. 1, the pressure sensor120and temperature sensor121are connected between the air intake valve113and discharge valve116.

With the compressor111, activation and stop are controlled by the controller117, and the air is absorbed, compressed, and output during activation. The controller117may control the capabilities of the compressor111being activated.

As for the compressor111, a capacity-type pump may be employed, for example. The capacity-type pump compresses fluid by performing an operation in which fluid such as the air is absorbed from an intake vent118, and the capacity of the absorbed fluid is reduced. Examples of the capacity-type pump include a gear pump, a diaphragm pump, a piston pump, and a plunger pump. The gear pump compresses fluid by rotation. The diaphragm pump, piston pump, and plunger pump compress fluid by reciprocation. In the event of employing rotation driving force of the engine7as a source of power in this way, a capacity-type pump having the intake vent118having a backflow valve is suitable for the compressor111. The capacity-type pump has a force, even when driving is stopped in the middle of compression, maintaining pressure thereof.

The cooling apparatus110according to the present embodiment directly releases the compressed air into the passenger space3. In order to suppress contamination of the passenger space3, it is desirable to employ an oil-less type as for the compressor111. The compressed air in the cooling apparatus110may be supplied to the passenger space3by exchanging the cool air of the compressed air into anther air such as the external air by heat-exchange equipment instead of being released into the passenger space3without change.

The intake vent118of the compressor111may be provided to the passenger space3or may be provided out of the automobile101(out of the passenger space3). In the event of absorbing the external air out of the passenger space3, the compressor111may adjust absorption capacity according to running speed, or may absorb the external air during parking. Fluctuation of the atmospheric pressure of the external air suppresses excessive load from affecting the compressor111. In the event of absorbing the inner air within the passenger space3, the atmospheric pressure of the passenger space3decreases. Therefore, for example, in a state in which the air conditioning apparatus mounted on the automobile101is set to the external air introduction mode, the compressor111may absorb the inner air. The inner air is commonly adjusted with temperature and moisture by the air conditioning apparatus. The inner air suppresses, as compared to the external air, moisture in the air stored in the tank114, cooling effects after re-releasing this air into the passenger space3, and suppression effects of moisture increase can be expected.

The compressor111includes an electric motor, and uses charged power of a battery7mounted in the vehicle body102. Therefore, as illustrated inFIG. 1, it is desirable to provide the compressor111to the engine room.

The compressor111may use generated power of a solar light panel to be mounted on the vehicle body102or commercial power of a household power supply. In particular, the compressor111is operated when the solar light panel is generating power, whereby the compressor111can be operated in accordance with a case where the passenger space3is warmed by solar light and needs cooling. The compressor111is connected to the battery7via a relay switch122.

Note that in the event that the engine mounted on the vehicle body102may be driven during parking, the compressor111may employ rotation driving force of the engine as a source of power. In this case, there is provided an electromagnetic clutch between the output shaft of the engine and the input shaft of the compressor111. The compressor111can be controlled by disengaging the electromagnetic clutch so as not to become load of the engine while the vehicle is moving.

Additionally, with the compressor111, a battery to be mounted on the vehicle body102, the power of the solar light panel, household power supply, or vibration of the vehicle body102such as vertical movement caused while the vehicle is moving may be employed as a source of power, for example. Also, the compressor111of the cooling apparatus110may be integral with a compressor of the air conditioning apparatus mounted on the vehicle.

The air intake duct112connects the compressor111and tank114. The air compressed by the compressor111is supplied to the tank114via the air intake duct112.

The air intake valve113is provided to the air intake duct112. Opening/closing of the air intake valve113is controlled by the controller117. In the event that the air intake valve113is in an opened state, the air compressed by the compressor111is supplied to the tank114. In the event that the air intake valve113is in an closed state, the air intake duct112is blocked, and supply of the compressed air from the compressor111to the tank114is stopped. The compressed air does not flow backward from the tank114side to the compressor111.

With the tank114, the compressed air is stored. The tank114may be a metal type, for example, such as stainless or the like, or may be a product made from reinforced plastic. With the tanks114made from these materials, the compressed air can be stored with high pressure. For example, with a vehicle of which the passenger space is 4000 liters in capacity, the compressed air is stored in a 40-liter tank, and a control unit releases the compressed air equivalent to equal to the capacity of the passenger space which is lower in temperature than room temperature, and accordingly, the air of higher room temperature within the passenger space is extruded and expanded, and accordingly, the cooled compressed air is switched with the air in the passenger space, whereby the room temperature of the passenger space can be decreased. Therefore, though there is no particular restriction regarding the capacity and shape of the tank114, the capacity of the tank may suitably be equal to or greater than the capacity of the passenger space. Also, instead of the air in the passenger space being switched with the expanded compressed air, high room temperature in the passenger space may be decreased by releasing little compressed air than the capacity of the passenger space into the passenger space. The larger the capacity of the tank114is, the large the compressed air can be stored.

There is no particular restriction regarding the capacity and shape of the tank114. The tank114has to have a size and a shape whereby the tank114can be installed in free space in the vehicle. The greater the capacity of the tank114, the greater the compressed air can be stored.

The tank114may be fixed to the automobile101or cooling apparatus110, or may be detachable. In the case that the tank114is detachable, the tank114can be replaced. The tank114in which the compressed air is enclosed beforehand is attached, whereby the compressed air can be released into the passenger space3without using the compressor111. Enclosing aroma oil or perfume in the tank114along with the compressed air allows odor eliminating within the vehicle to be expected.

The installation place of the tank114is not particularly restricted. The tank114may be installed in a suitable place based on the safety standard or the like needed for the automobile101or the like. InFIG. 1, the tank114is installed in the engine room. The tank114may be installed in cargo space or the passenger space3. In the event of installing the tank114in the passenger space3, the tank114has to be installed in a place where direct sunlight does not hit or a place where the temperature is prevented from increasing.

Note that the cooling apparatus110may include multiple tanks114. The multiple tanks114may be tanks which independently store the compressed air and independently supply to the passenger space3, or may be tanks in which the compressed air is supplied from one of the tanks114to the other tank114.

For example, an arrangement may be made such that a reservoir tank having a large capacity is added between the air intake valve113and tank114inFIG. 2, the compressed air is first stored in this reservoir tank, and the compressed air is supplied to the tank114after releasing from the reservoir tank.

The discharge air duct115connects between the tank114and passenger space3. The compressed air discharged from the tank114is supplied to the passenger space3of the automobile101through the discharge air duct115.

An discharge vent119of the discharge air duct115is provided to the passenger space3. The discharge vent119may have a nozzle shape. The discharge vent119has a nozzle shape, whereby the compressed air can be discharged to the passenger space3while maintaining pressure within the discharge air duct115.

The locations, directions, and number of the discharge vents119do not have a particular restriction. The discharge vent of the air conditioning apparatus may be used as the discharge vent119. However, the compressed air has not only an advantage of decreasing the temperature by being expanded, but also an advantage of decreasing surface temperature of an object on which the compressed air is sprayed. Therefore, it is desirable to provide the discharge vent119in the position and direction where the compressed air can directly be sprayed on a location such as a sheet, handle, dashboard, and so forth where the temperature increases, or a location with which the user directly comes into contact. For example, the discharge vent119may be provided downward as to a pillar or roof or the like.

InFIG. 1, a part of the multiple discharge vents119are provided downward as to the roof, and are installed so as to spray the compressed air to the seats4. Also, the rest of the multiple discharge vents119are provided upward within the seats4, and are installed so as to spray the compressed air from the seats4to the passenger space3.

A discharge valve116is provided to the discharge air duct115. Opening/closing of the discharge valve116is controlled by the controller117. In the event that the discharge valve116is in a closed state, the discharge air duct115is blocked, and the compressed air within the tank114is pooled and stored within the tank114. The discharge valve16is closed under the operation of the compressor111, and accordingly, the air pressure within the tank114increases. In the event that the discharge valve116is in an opened state, the compressed air stored in the tank114is released into the passenger space3.

The controller117is connected to the units of the cooling apparatus110, such as the compressor111, air intake valve113, discharge valve116, pressure sensor120, and so forth. The controller117controls the cooling apparatus110.

The cooling apparatus110compresses the air at the compressor111, stores the compressed air in the tank114, and releases the compressed air stored in the tank114into the passenger space3. The compressed air released from the passenger space3is expanded at the passenger space3, and according to an endothermic effect at the time of this distension, the air within the passenger space3is cooled. Also, a location where the compressed air has been sprayed is cooled.

Note that, with the controller117, the tank114in which the compressed air is stored may be heated by a heater, or may be cooled by a thermistor. Thus, the temperature before releasing of the compressed air is adjusted, and the room temperature of the passenger space3after the compressed air is released can be adjusted.

The controller117includes memory in which a control program is stored, and a central processing unit which executes the control program. The controller117may be an independent controller117, may be realized as a part of an ECU (Engine Control Unit) which controls the engine of the automobile101, or may be realized by a controller of the air conditioning apparatus.

In order to obtain various types of information to be used for control processing or determination, a running control signal of the vehicle, and various types of detection signals are input to the controller117. Examples of such signals include a detection signal of the state of the ignition key, an activation signal or stop signal of the engine, a speed pulse signal, a brake operation signal, a remote control open/close key detection signal, and an unlocking signal or locking signal of the door panel5. Additionally, there is a detection signal of an external temperature sensor, inner temperature sensor, or sunshine sensor. Of these running control signal and detection signals, there is a signal to be used as a passenger detector to detect whether or not there is a passenger in the passenger space3. According to such information, the controller117determines whether there is a user in the passenger space. The passenger detector may employ an infrared sensor or camera other than these running control signal and detection signals, or may employ an existing door opening/closing recognition system or sheet internal pressure sensor.

Note that the controller117may include a timer to measure point-in-time and time, a wireless communication unit which communicates with a cellular phone or the like, and so forth.

Next, the operation of the cooling apparatus110inFIG. 2will be described.FIG. 3is a flowchart illustrating the entirety of a cooling process of the cooling apparatus110inFIG. 2.

With the overall control inFIG. 3, the controller117of the cooling apparatus110first executes an air compressing process (step ST1).

In the event of having determined that there is no passenger in the passenger space3during parking or according to the information of the passenger detector, the controller117executes the air compressing process.

With the compressing process, in a state in which the air intake valve115is opened, and the discharge valve116is closed, the controller117operates the compressor111to supply the compressed air to the tank114. The controller117closes the relay switch122.

The controller117may determine, based on the detection signal of the pressure sensor120which detects the pressure of the tank114, and a flag indicating the cycle of the cooling apparatus110stored in memory, whether or not there is the compressed air in the tank114, and in the event that no compressed air is stored, operate the compressor111.

In the event that the pressure of the pressure sensor20has reached equal to or greater than a reference value, the controller117stops the compressor111, and closes the air intake valve113. The controller117opens the relay switch122.

Thus, the air intake valve113and discharge valve116both become a closed state, and the compressed air having pressure equal to or greater than a reference value is stored in the tank114(storing process, cooling process, step ST2).

Note that predetermined reference pressure for stopping storage of the compressed air as to the tank114has to be higher than the atmospheric pressure, and is several Mpa, for example.

Incidentally, the air generates heat when compressed. The compressed air stored in the tank114is cooled along with the tank114after completion of compression. For example, in the event that the tank114does not have a heat-insulated configuration, temperature of the compressed air is cooled up to the same temperature as the external temperature of the tank114. Accordingly, with the storing process after the compressed air is supplied to this tank114, the temperature of the passenger space within the tank114is cooled to normal temperature, for example.

Next, the controller117executes a releasing process (step ST3).

The controller117executes the releasing process, for example, when the user gets into the vehicle, after the user gets into the vehicle, or in the event that determination is made that the user is likely to get into the vehicle, based on information from the passenger detector.

With the releasing process, the controller117opens the discharge valve116while keeping the air intake valve113open. Thus, the compressed air stored in the tank114is discharged to the passenger space3through an discharge nozzle. The compressed air is expanded within the passenger space3, and the room temperature in the boarding case3is decreased by endothermic reaction accompanied with expansion.

Note that, with this releasing process, in order to suppress pressure increase in the passenger space3, the controller117may execute control to open the window glass6together, or may control the air conditioning apparatus in accordance with the external air introduction mode. The controller117has to start releasing of the compressed air in a state in which a vent hole is provided to the passenger space3in this way. The controller117has to detect that the window glass6or door panel5is opened to start releasing of the compressed air.

As described above, in order to release the compressed air into the passenger space3, the controller117executes the compressing process, storing process, and releasing process as one-time cooling cycle. Thus, the room temperature of the passenger space3after releasing decreases as compared to before releasing.

The cooling apparatus110can cool the passenger space3. The controller117repeatedly executes the cooling cycle, whereby the passenger space3can be cooled over multiple times.

Also, with the cooling apparatus110according to the present embodiment, instead of releasing into the passenger space3immediately after compressing the air, the compressed air passes through the storing process.

According to passing through a cooling period in this storing process, the temperature in the compressed air decreases as compared to the temperature at the time of completion of compression, and becomes normal temperature, for example.

The compressed air of which the temperature has been lowered is released into the passenger space3, whereby more room temperature lowering can be expected as compared to a case where the high-temperature compressed air immediately after compression is released. Also, the controller117executes the compressing process during parking where the user gets out.

On the other hand, in the event of carrying out the compressing process under the user's boarding, the compressor111is driven by the driving force of the engine, and accordingly, for example, increase in idling, and increase in engine load may be sensed by the user. With the present embodiment, there is no such concern.

Second Embodiment

The first embodiment is an example of the basic configuration and operation of the cooling apparatus110which cools the passenger space3using the compressed air. A second embodiment is an example in which the compressing process of the cooling apparatus110according to the first embodiment has been improved so as to suitably carry out the compressing processing during parking. The configurations of the vehicle and cooling apparatus110according to the second embodiment are the same configurations as those in the first embodiment.

FIG. 4is a flowchart of the compressing process of the cooling apparatus110according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

As illustrated inFIG. 4, with the compressing process, the controller117first determines whether or not the vehicle is under parking (step ST11).

The controller117determines whether or not the vehicle is under parking, for example, by determining that the vehicle is stopped in a state in which no user gets into the vehicle.

Whether or not the vehicle is under parking in a state in which no user is in the vehicle can be determined by determining whether or not there is a detection signal from a sensor for detecting opening/closing of the door panel5, and whether or not the engine is stopped. In the event that opening/closing of the door panel5has been detected after the engine is stopped, determination can be made that the user has got off in a state in which the vehicle body102has been stopped.

In the event that determination is made that the vehicle is under parking, the controller117determines whether the compressing process has to be carried out (step ST12). In the event that the compressed air has already stored in the tank114, the compressing process is not needed.

The controller117determines whether or not a detection signal of the pressure sensor120exceeds a predetermined reference value, for example. In the event that the detection signal does not exceed the predetermined reference value, the controller117determines that the compressing process has to be carried out.

In the event that determination is made that the compressing process has to be carried out, the controller117starts the compressing process (step ST13).

The controller117activates the compressor111under the same control as with the first embodiment. Also, the controller117connects the electromagnetic clutch. Thus, the compressor111starts a compressing operation. The air compressed by the compressor111is supplied to the tank114.

After starting the compressing process, the controller117determines completion of the compressing process (step ST14). In the event that the internal pressure of the tank114is equal to or greater than a predetermined value, the controller117determines this to be completion of the compressing process. In the event that the internal pressure of the tank114has not reached the predetermined value, the controller117determines this to be incompletion of the compressing process.

In the event that determination is made that the compressing process has not been completed, the controller117further determines whether or not the user has got into the vehicle (step ST15). The controller117has to determine whether or not the user has got into the vehicle, based on whether or not there is opening/closing of the door panel5or whether or not the engine has been activated.

In the event that determination is made that the compressing process has not been completed, and also the user has not got into the vehicle, the controller117continues the compressing process (step ST16).

The controller117has continued the compressing operation by the compressor111. The controller117repeats the above-mentioned control until the compressed air of which the pressure is equal to or greater than a reference value is stored in the tank114, and the compressing process is determined to have been completed, or until determination is made that the user has got off the vehicle. During this, the controller117continues to determine that the compressing process has to be continued.

Upon the compressed air of which the pressure is equal to or greater than a reference value being stored in the tank114, the controller117determines completion of the compressing process (step ST14).

The controller117ends the compressing process under the same control as with the first embodiment (step ST17).

The controller117opens the relay switch122to stop power feeding for the compressor111. Thus, the compressed air of which the predetermined pressure is equal to or greater than a reference value has been stored in the tank114.

Also, in the event that determination is made in step ST15that the user has got into the vehicle as well, the controller117ends the compressing process (step ST17). The controller117opens the relay switch122to stop power feeding for the compressor111under the same control as with the first embodiment.

Compression is ended in accordance with the user having got off the vehicle in state in which compression has not been completed in this way, whereby, with a period in which the user uses the battery107and engine, the compressor111can be suppressed from becoming load for these.

FIG. 5is a flowchart of the releasing process suitably combined with the compressing process inFIG. 4. As illustrated inFIG. 5, with the releasing process, the controller117first determines whether or not this timing is timing for carrying out the releasing process. With the example inFIG. 5, the controller117first determines whether or not there is boarding (step ST21). Whether or not there is boarding can be determined by determining whether or not there is a detection signal of the sensor for detecting opening/closing of the door panel5, or whether or not the engine has been stared. In the event that the engine has been started after opening/closing of the door panel5is detected, determination can be made that the user has got into the vehicle.

In the event that determination is made that the user has got into the vehicle, the controller117determines whether or not the compressing process and cooling process (storing process) have been completed (step ST22).

For example, in the event that a detection signal of the pressure sensor120of the tank114exceeds a predetermined reference value, the controller117determines that the compressing process has been completed. In addition to this, for example, an arrangement may be made such that in the event that determination is made in step ST14inFIG. 4that the compressing process has been completed, the controller117stores a completion flag in the memory, and determine that the compressing process has been completed by confirming this completion flag.

For example, in the event that the detection signal of the temperature sensor121of the tank114is less than the predetermined reference value, the controller117determines that the cooling process has been completed. In addition to this, for example, an arrangement may be made such that when determination is made in step ST14inFIG. 4that the compressing process has been completed, the controller117sets cooling time in a timer, and determines that the cooling process has been completed by confirming that this cooling time has elapsed.

In the event that determination is made that the compressing process and cooling process (storing process) have been completed, the controller117determines whether or not cooling using the compressed air is needed (step ST23).

For example, in the event that detection temperature of an internal temperature sensor within the passenger space3is equal to or greater than an external temperature or predetermined temperature, for example, such as 20 degrees or the like, the controller117determines that cooling using the compressed air is needed. In addition to this, for example, an arrangement may be made such that in the event that detection temperature of an external temperature sensor is equal to or greater than a predetermined temperature, or in the event that a sunlight sensor has detected sunlight amount equal to or greater than a predetermined value, the controller117determines that cooling using the compressed air is needed. Further, additionally, for example, the controller117may determine whether or not cooling using the compressed air is needed, based on whether or not there is activation reserved point-in-time of the timer, elapsed time since the user got off the vehicle last time, or whether or not there is an activation instruction form a cellular phone or the like.

In the event that this timing is timing for carrying out the releasing process, and also cooling is needed, the controller117carries out the releasing process (step ST24).

The controller117opens the discharge valve116under the same control as with the first embodiment. Thus, the compressed air in the tank114is released into the passenger space3.

Note that, inFIG. 5, the determination step ST23of whether or not cooling using the compressed air is needed is positioned after the determination steps ST21and ST22of the executing timing of the releasing process. The determination step ST23of whether or not cooling using the compressed air is needed may be carried out before the determination steps ST21and ST22of the executing timing of the releasing process.

In the event of performing cooling based on the activation reserved point-in-time of the timer, or an activation instruction from a cellular phone or the like, the controller117may execute cooling by confirming only that the compressing process and cooling process have been completed, without determining whether or not the user has got into the vehicle.

As described above, the controller117carries out the compressing process and cooling process during parking, and carries out the necessary releasing process at the user's boarding timing. As a result thereof, the controller117can release the compressed air stored during parking at the time of boarding. Moreover, the controller117performs control, instead of enabling releasing immediately after completion of storing of the compressed air during parking, so as not to perform releasing unless a certain cooling process (storing process) is carried out.

Therefore, a period for reliable heat liberation can be ensured as a storing cooling period of the compressed air in the tank114. The compressed air of which the temperature has been lowered by the heat liberation period for reliable heat liberation is released into the passenger space3, more room temperature lowering can be expected as compared to a case where the high-temperature compressed air immediately after compression is released.

Also, upon the user having got into the vehicle during compression, the controller117stops compression. Thus, the user is prevented from detecting the compression operation.

Even in the event that the user frequently repeats getting in/off, the air having generally certain pressure can be compressed in the tank114by connecting divided parking periods thereof. Moreover, the controller117carries out the releasing process only after the air is cooled in the storing process after the compressing process.

As a result thereof, in the event that the user frequently repeats getting in/off, the compressed air insufficiently cooled during thereof can be prevented for releasing into the passenger space3. That is to say, unnecessary room temperature increase can be prevented by the compressed air in such an insufficient cooling state being released into the passenger space3.

Though the above-mentioned embodiment is an example of a suitable embodiment of the present invention, the present invention is not restricted to this, and various modifications and changes can be made without departing from the essence of the present invention.

With the above-mentioned embodiment, the cooling apparatus110is mounted on the automobile110. In addition to this, for example, the cooling apparatus101may be mounted on another vehicle such as a bus, train, or the like.

The cooling apparatus110may be formed as an independent apparatus separated from the vehicle.

An electric motor is employed as a driving source of the compressor111, whereby the cooling apparatus110can carry out the compressing process without employing the driving force of the engine as the driving source. The cooling apparatus110employing an electric compressor can be operated by the power of the battery7of the vehicle, solar light generating power panel, and household power supply.

The cooling apparatus110is configured so as to be portable, whereby this can be used for cooling multiple vehicles. The cooling apparatus110can also be used as a cooling apparatus110for emergency use.

With the above-mentioned embodiment, the cooling apparatus110includes the compressor111in addition to the tank114. In addition to this, for example, the cooling apparatus110may be configured so as not to include the compressor111by the tank114being configured so as to be replaceable. In this case, the cooling apparatus110does not carry out the compressing process. Also, the cooling apparatus110has to carry out the cooling process by confirming the remaining pressure of the tank114, or by confirming whether or not a new tank114has been mounted. In the event of purchasing the tank114, the tank114thereof is generally cooled with normal temperature, and accordingly, the storing process for cooling is also not needed.

With the above-mentioned embodiment, the passenger space3of the vehicle such as the automobile101or the like is cooled by the cooling apparatus110. The vehicle such as the automobile101or the like commonly includes the air conditioning apparatus in which a cooling medium is circulated by a compressor, a condenser, a receiver, an expansion valve, and an evaporator, the passenger space3is cooled by spraying the air of the passenger space3on the evaporator by a blower fan.

In addition to this, for example, the passenger space3of the vehicle such as the automobile101or the like may be cooled by the cooling apparatus110and air conditioning apparatus. For example, after performing initial cooling at the cooling apparatus110, the passenger space3may be cooled to a desirable temperature at the air conditioning apparatus. Thus, the passenger space3is cooled in a surely shorter period of time than a case where the passenger space3is cooled by the air conditioning apparatus alone.

Note that such a coordination cooling operation between the cooling apparatus110and the air conditioning apparatus can be realized, in the event that these controllers are separately provided, by transmitting an activation signal from the cooling apparatus110to the air conditioning apparatus, for example.

In the case of the controller is shared, this coordination cooling operation can be realized by communicating from a control program of the cooling apparatus110to a control program of the air conditioning apparatus using program-to-program communication according to a flag or the like.

Third Embodiment

FIG. 6is a partial transparent side view of an automobile201employing a cooling apparatus210according to a third embodiment of the present invention. Note that description will be omitted regarding the same contents as with the first embodiment.

The automobile201inFIG. 6includes a vehicle body202. With the present embodiment, the cooling apparatus210is employed in which before the user who intends to get into the vehicle gets into the vehicle, the compressed air is released into the passenger space, thereby rapidly cooling the passenger space.

FIG. 7is a configuration diagram of the cooling apparatus210to be mounted on the automobile201inFIG. 6. The cooling apparatus210inFIG. 7cools the passenger space3by releasing the compressed air into the passenger space3inFIG. 6.

The cooling apparatus210includes a compressor211, an air intake duct212, an air intake valve213, a tank214, an discharge air duct215, an discharge valve216, and a controller217. The cooling apparatus210includes a tank pressure sensor220which detects the pressure of the compressed air of the tank214, and an in-room pressure sensor222which detects the pressure of the passenger space.

The configurations of the cooling apparatus201, compressor211, air intake duct212, air intake valve213, tank214, discharge air duct215, discharge valve216, controller217, intake vent218, and discharge vent219are basically the same as those in the first embodiment. Description will be omitted regarding the same configurations as with the first embodiment.

The compressor211can use the rotation driving force of the engine7to be mounted on the vehicle body202as a source of power. Therefore, as illustrated inFIG. 6, the compressor211has to be provided in the engine room. In this case, an electromagnetic clutch221is provided between the output shaft of the engine7and the input shaft of the compressor211. The compressor211can be stopped during operation of the engine7by disengaging the electromagnetic clutch221.

With the tank214, the compressed air is stored. The tank214may be a metal type, for example, such as stainless or the like, or may be a product made from reinforced plastic. With the tanks214made from these materials, the compressed air can be stored with high pressure.

Note that the cooling apparatus210may include multiple tanks214. The multiple tanks214may be tanks which independently store the compressed air and independently supply to the passenger space3, or may be tanks in which the compressed air is supplied from one of the tanks214to the other tank214.

For example, an arrangement may be made such that a reservoir tank having a large capacity is added between the air intake valve213and tank214inFIG. 6, the compressed air is first stored in this reservoir tank, and the compressed air is supplied to the tank214after releasing from the reservoir tank.

The discharge valve216is provided to the discharge air duct215. Opening/closing of the discharge valve216is controlled by the controller217. Releasing amount of the compressed air stored in the tank214can be adjusted by adjusting the open degree of the discharge valve216.

Also, with the present embodiment, a flow rate sensor223is provided to the discharge air duct215between the tank214and the discharge valve216. Examples of the flow rate sensor223include a venturi type, an orifice type, a heat ray type, a Kalman type, a turbine type, and impeller type. In the event of taking vibration of the vehicle body202into consideration, an orifice type or a heat ray type flow rate sensor is suitable. The flow rate sensor223outputs an signal indicating the detected flow rate to the controller217.

The tank pressure sensor220is, as illustrated inFIG. 7for example, provided between the air intake valve213and the discharge valve216. In addition to this, the tank pressure sensor220may be provided to the tank214. Thus, the tank pressure sensor220can detect the pressure of the tank214.

The in-room pressure sensor222is, as illustrated inFIG. 6for example, provided within a dashboard. The in-room pressure sensor222may be provided to a place other than this, in the passenger space3. Thus, the in-room pressure sensor222can detect the pressure of the passenger space3. The tank pressure sensor220or in-room pressure sensor222may be either a diaphragm type pressure sensor or barrier membrane type pressure sensor. However, with the present embodiment, difference between the detection pressure of the tank pressure sensor220and the detection pressure of the in-room pressure sensor222is used, and accordingly, the same type has to be employed. Thus, the pressure sensors can be used for control even in the event of strictly proofing the sensitivity and so forth of each pressure sensor.

In order to obtain various types of information to be used for control processing or determination, a running control signal of the vehicle, and various types of detection signals are input to the controller217. Examples of such signals include the detection signals of the tank pressure sensor220, in-room pressure sensor222, external temperature sensor, inner temperature sensor, and a sunlight sensor. In addition to these, there are a detection signal of the state of the ignition key, an activation signal or stop signal of the engine7, a speed pulse signal, a brake operation signal, a detection signal of a remote control open/close key, and an unlocking signal or locking signal of the door panel5.

Note that the controller217may include a timer to measure point-in-time and time, a wireless communication unit which communicates with a cellular phone or the like, and so forth.

Next, the operation of the cooling apparatus210inFIG. 7will be described.FIG. 3is a flowchart illustrating the entirety of a cooling process of the cooling apparatus210inFIG. 7.

With the overall control inFIG. 3, the controller217of the cooling apparatus210first executes an air compressing process (step ST1).

The controller217executes, after the user gets into the vehicle and starts the engines7for example, the compressing process.

In the event that the pressure of the tank pressure sensor220has reached equal to or greater than a reference value, the controller217stops the compressor211, and closes the air intake valve213. In the event of employing the electromagnetic clutch221, the controller217blocks this. Thus, the air intake valve213and discharge valve216both become a closed state, and the compressed air having certain pressure equal to or greater than a reference value is stored in the tank214(storing process, step ST2).

Next, the controller217executes the releasing process (step ST3).

The controller217starts the releasing process, for example, when the user gets into the vehicle. In this case, the controller217executes the releasing process at the time of boarding each time the user gets into the vehicle, and then executes the compressing process.

With the releasing process, the controller217opens the discharge valve216while keeping open the air intake valve213. The controller217releases the high-pressure compressed air from the tank214before the user gets into the vehicle, and releases, after the user gets into the vehicle, the low-pressure compressed air remaining in the tank214after the high-pressure compressed air is released.

It can be determined, for example, using a proximity detection signal of a smart key which the user carries, or an activation signal of the engine7from an engine starter which the user carries whether or not the user has yet to get into the vehicle.

It can be determined, for example, using an open detection signal of the door panel5, a detection signal of a seat sensor embedded in the seats4, or a detection signal of a seat belt wearing sensor whether or not the user has got into the vehicle. For example, an arrangement may be made such that these signals are received by an ECU, and a notification signal is output from the ECU to the controller217. Thus, the compressed air stored in the tank214is discharged to the passenger space3through the discharge nozzle. The compressed air is expanded within the passenger space3, and the room temperature of the passenger space3is lowered by endothermic reaction accompanied with expansion.

Note that, with this releasing process, in order to suppress pressure increase of the passenger space3, the controller217may execute control for opening the window glass6together. Alternatively, the controller217may control the air conditioning apparatus in accordance with the external air introduction mode. The controller217has to start releasing of the compressed air in a state in which a vent hole is provided to the passenger space3in this way. The controller217may start releasing of the compressed air by detecting the window glass6or door panel5being opened.

Also, with the releasing process, the controller217releases the high-pressure compressed air from the tank214before the user gets into the vehicle, and after the user gets into the vehicle, releases the low-pressure compressed air remaining in the tank214after the high-pressure compressed air is released.

Thus, the compressed air stored in the tank214is released into the passenger space3before and after the user's boarding. Also, the compressed air stored in the tank214is released in stages such that releasing from the tank214is started before the user gets into the vehicle, and releasing from the tank214is ended after the user gets into the vehicle.

Accordingly, with the present embodiment, according to a cooling effect accompanied with expansion of the high-pressure compressed air released before the user's boarding, or the like, the passenger space3can be cooled before the user's boarding, and further, according to the wind of the low-pressure compressed air released after the user's boarding, the user himself/herself who has got into the vehicle can be cooled.

Fourth Embodiment

The third embodiment is an example of the basic configuration and operation of the cooling apparatus210which cools the passenger space3using the compressed air. A fourth embodiment is an example of the releasing process of the cooling apparatus210according to the third embodiment having been improved. The configurations of the vehicle and cooling apparatus210in the fourth embodiment are the same as those in the third embodiment.

FIG. 8is a flowchart of the releasing process of the cooling apparatus210according to the second embodiment of the present invention. As illustrated inFIG. 8, with the releasing process of the compressed air, the controller217first determines whether or not the user has yet to get into the vehicle (step ST11).

It can be determined, for example, using a proximity detection signal of a smart key which the user carries, or an activation signal of the engine7from an engine starter which the user carries whether or not the user has yet to get into the vehicle.

Upon detecting that the user is going to get into the vehicle, the controller217starts releasing of the high-pressure compressed air (step ST12).

The controller217fully opens the discharge valve216while closing the air intake valve213.

With releasing of this high-pressure compressed air, part of the compressed air stored in the tank214is released.

Therefore, the controller217determines whether or not partial releasing of the compressed air has been completed (step ST13).

As for part of the compressed air stored in the tank214, 70% or more of the compressed air stored in the tank214may be preferable, for example.

Releasing amount of the compressed air from the tank214may be obtained by adding a flow rate detected by the flow rate sensor223, or may be obtained by detection pressure of the tank pressure sensor220.

In the event that partial releasing of the compressed air has been completed, the controller217ends releasing of the high-pressure compressed air (step ST14). The controller217also closes the discharge valve216.

In the event that partial releasing of the compressed air has not been completed, the controller217repeats the determination processing in step ST13while continuing releasing of the high-pressure compressed air.

Upon partial releasing of the compressed air being completed, the controller217then ends releasing of the high-pressure compressed air (step ST14).

Upon partial releasing of the high-pressure compressed air being ended, the controller217proceeds to releasing processing of the low-pressure compressed air.

The controller217determines whether or not the user has got into the vehicle (step ST15).

It can be determined, for example, using an open detection signal of the door panel5, a detection signal of a seat sensor embedded in the seats4, or a detection signal of a seat belt wearing sensor whether or not the user has got into the vehicle.

Upon the user having got into the vehicle, the controller217further determines whether or not the pressure of the passenger space3has been lowered (step ST16). The pressure of the passenger space3can bed detected by the in-room pressure sensor222.

For example, in the event that the pressure of the passenger space3is lowered up to the atmospheric pressure or so, the controller217starts releasing of the low-pressure compressed air remaining in the tank214(step ST17).

The controller217opens the discharge valve216so as to adjust the open degree of the discharge valve216, for example, so that the detection value of the flow rate sensor223becomes a certain reference value.

Also, for example, upon releasing the low-pressure compressed air for a certain period of time, the controller217ends releasing of the low-pressure compressed air. The controller217closes the discharge valve216.

As described above, the controller217releases the compressed air before and after the user gets into the vehicle.

Also, the controller217releases the low-pressure compressed air remaining in the tank214after the user gets into the vehicle, and further, the pressure of the passenger space3is lowered.

Accordingly, the wind can be applied to the user who has got into the vehicle under the lowered pressure of the passenger space3.

In particular, with the present embodiment, at the time of releasing the low-pressure compressed air remaining in the tank214, the open degree of the discharge valve216is adjusted so as to obtain a constant flow rate. Thus, wind of a comfortable wind amount can be applied to the user.

Though the above-mentioned embodiment is an example of a suitable embodiment of the present invention, the present invention is not restricted to this, and various modifications and changes can be made without departing from the essence of the present invention.

Fifth Embodiment

FIG. 9is a partial transparent side view of an automobile301employing the cooling apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present invention. Note that description will be omitted regarding the same contents as with the first and second embodiments. The automobile301inFIG. 9includes a vehicle body302.

With the present embodiment, a cooling apparatus310is employed in which the compressed air is released into the passenger space before a user who attempts to get into the vehicle, thereby rapidly cooling the passenger space.

FIG. 10is a configuration diagram of the cooling apparatus310to be mounted on the automobile301inFIG. 9. The cooling apparatus310inFIG. 10cools the passenger space3by releasing the compressed air into the passenger space3inFIG. 9.

The configurations of the cooling apparatus301, compressor311, air intake duct312, air intake valve313, tank314, discharge air duct315, discharge valve316, controller317, intake vent318, and discharge vent319are basically the same as those in the first and second embodiments. Description will be omitted regarding the same configurations as with the first and second embodiments.

The intake vent318of the compressor311may be provided in the passenger space3, or may be provided out of the automobile301(out of the passenger space3).

With the present embodiment, the intake vent318is provided in the passenger space3so as to absorb the inner air. The inner air is adjusted to comfortable temperature and humidity by taking advantage of the air conditioning apparatus while the user gets into the vehicle. Accordingly, the inner air is compressed and stored in the tank314, whereby a cooling effect for suitable temperature using this compressed air can be expected while decreasing the pressure of the compressed air to be released into the passenger space3in a state in which the user gets into the vehicle. The discharge vent319of the discharge air duct315is provided in the passenger space3.

In the event of releasing the compressed air while the user gets into the vehicle as with the present embodiment, so as to prevent the high-pressure air from spraying on the face or the like to make a passenger feel uncomfortable, the discharge vent319is provided in a position or direction where the air is not released toward a person who has sit in a seat position in the passenger space3.

For example, the discharge vent319is, as illustrated inFIG. 9, provided to the inner portion of a dashboard or seat4provided in the passenger space3. In addition to this, there are the roof and trunk room as in-vehicle facilities where the discharge vent319can be installed.

Also, as illustrate inFIG. 9, the discharge vent319is provided toward the roof and the back surfaces of the seats4. In addition to this, there are the handle and dashboard and so forth as a location where the discharge vent319can be directed.

In this way, the discharge vent319is provided to the inner portion of an in-vehicle facility, or provided to be directed toward the inner side of the vehicle or an in-vehicle facility making up the passenger space3, whereby the user can be prevented from receiving uncomfortable feeling while increasing the pressure of the compressed air to be released from the discharge vent319.

Specifically, when assuming that space occupied by a passenger at the time of the passenger taking a seat in the passenger space3is taken as first passenger space, and space other than the first passenger space in the passenger space3is taken as second passenger space, the discharge vent319of the compressed air is provided so as to release toward the second passenger space, whereby the compressed air can be prevented from directly spraying upon the sitting passenger.

In order to obtain various types of information to be used for control processing or determination, various signals are input to the controller317. Examples of such signals include a detection signal of a seat belt wearing sensor, a detection signal of a seat sensor embedded in the seats4, an image signal of an in-vehicle monitor camera, an unlocking signal or locking signal of the door panel5, and a confirmation signal that there is a smart key325in the vehicle.

Also, there are a detection signal of the temperature or humidity of the passenger space3, a detection signal of the temperature of the compressed air in the tank314, an opening/closing detection signal of the window glass6or door panel5, and an operation detection signal of the air conditioning apparatus mounted on the vehicle body302. These signals may directly be input from each detection sensor324, or may be input from an ECU323.

Next, the operation of the cooling apparatus310inFIG. 10will be described.FIG. 3is a flowchart illustrating the entirety of a cooling process of the cooling apparatus310inFIG. 10.

With the overall control inFIG. 3, the controller317of the cooling apparatus310first executes an air compressing process (step ST1).

The controller317executes the compressing process, for example, when the user gets into the vehicle, after the user gets into the vehicle, or when the user is likely to get into the vehicle.

Upon the pressure of the pressure sensor320reaching equal to or greater than a predetermined reference value, the controller317stops the compressor311, and closes the air intake valve313. In the event of employing an electromagnetic clutch321, the controller317blocks this. Thus, the air intake valve313and discharge valve316both become a closed state, and the compressed air of which the pressure is equal to or greater than a reference value is stored in the tank314(storing process, step ST2).

Note that predetermined reference pressure for stopping storing of the compressed air in the tank314has to be higher than the atmospheric pressure. However, with the present embodiment, the compressed air is released into the passenger space3in a state in which the user is in the vehicle, and accordingly, it is desirable to suppress pressure to the extent of a suitable flow of the air being formed to the extent of preventing the user from receiving uncomfortable feeling.

Incidentally, the air generates heat when compressed. The compressed air housed in the tank314is cooled along with the tank314after completion of compression. For example, in the event that the tank314does not have a heat-insulated configuration, the temperature of the compressed air is cooled to the same temperature as the external temperature of the tank314. Thus, with the storing process after the compressed air is supplied to this tank314, the temperature of the compressed air within the tank314is cooled to normal temperature, for example.

Accordingly, in the event of compressing the inner air, it is desirable that the tank314has a heat-insulated configuration, or the tank314is installed in the trunk room or the like where the temperature is hardly increased. Thus, the air which the user feels to be comfortable at the time of the last cooling can be released into the passenger space3.

Next, the controller317executes the releasing process (step ST3).

The controller317executes the releasing process after the user gets into the vehicle, for example. The controller317determines that the user has got into the vehicle using a detection signal of a seat belt wearing sensor, a detection signal of a seat sensor, an image signal of an in-vehicle monitor camera, a locking signal after unlocking the door panel5, and a confirmation signal that there is a smart key325in the vehicle.

With the releasing process, the controller317opens the discharge valve316while closing the air intake valve313. Thus, the compressed air stored in the tank314is discharged into the passenger space3through the discharge nozzle.

The compressed air is expanded within the passenger space3, and the room temperature of the passenger space3is lowered by endothermic reaction accompanied with expansion. Also, the controller317executes the releasing process after the user gets into the vehicle. Thus, the wind according to the compressed air is applied to the user who has got into the vehicle, and the user is cooled and refreshed.

In particular, with the present embodiment, upon the pressure in the tank314reaching predetermined pressure, the controller317ends the compressing process. Thus, the pressure of the compressed air to be released into the passenger space3can be prevented from applying uncomfortable feeling to the user.

The pressure of the compressed air is controlled so as to be generally fixed pressure, whereby a certain effect can be expected as a cooling effect using the compressed air. Also, fluctuation of the pressure of the passenger space3after the compressed air is released can be suppressed within a certain range. Occurrence of trouble due to pressure increase can be suppressed.

Sixth Embodiment

The fifth embodiment is an example of the basic configuration and operation of the cooling apparatus310which cools the passenger space3using the compressed air. A sixth embodiment is an improved example of the releasing process of the cooling apparatus310according to the fifth embodiment. The configurations of the vehicle and cooling apparatus310in the sixth embodiment are the same as those in the fifth embodiment.

FIG. 11is a flowchart of the releasing process of the cooling apparatus310according to the second embodiment of the present invention. As illustrated inFIG. 11, with the releasing process, the controller317is in a state waiting for the user's boarding (step ST11).

The user's boarding can be confirmed by a detection signal of a seat belt wearing sensor, a detection signal of a seat sensor, an image signal of an in-vehicle monitor camera, a locking signal after unlocking the door panel5, and a confirmation signal that there is a smart key325in the vehicle, for example.

Upon confirming the user's boarding, the controller317confirms whether or not a vent hole between the passenger space3and the outside has been secured (step ST12).

The controller317determines, based on an input signal, for example, whether or not the door panel5is in an opened state, and whether or not the window glass6is in an opened state. Also, the controller317confirms whether or not the operation mode of the air conditioning apparatus is the external air introduction mode. In the even that no vent hole has been secured, the controller317secures a vent hole (step ST13).

The controller317opens the window glass6, controls the air conditioning apparatus in the external air introduction mode, or opens the electric door panel5. Such control may be executed by the ECU323under requesting of the controller317. The controller317then executes the releasing process (step ST14).

The controller317opens the discharge valve316by the same control as with the fifth embodiment. Thus, the compressed air in the tank314is released into the passenger space3. Upon releasing of the compressed air from the tank314being ended, the controller317ends the releasing process.

The controller317determines whether or not a vent hole has been formed for the releasing process (step ST15).

The controller317has to determine based on the presence of the control flag stored at the time of execution of the step ST13whether or not a vent hole has been formed.

In the event that a vent hole has been formed, the controller317returns this vent hole to a state before control (step ST16). The controller317closes the window glass6, returns the air conditioning apparatus to a mode other than the external air introduction mode, or closes the electric door panel5, which have been controlled for securing the vent hole. As described above, the controller317releases the compressed air into the passenger space3after the user gets into the vehicle.

In particular, the controller317confirms whether or not there is a vent hole between the passenger space and the outside, secures the vent hole, and then releases the compressed air into the passenger space3. Accordingly, even if the pressure of the compressed air is slightly increased, the user can be prevented from receiving uncomfortable feeling. Also, a cooling effect due to expansion of the compressed air can be expected.

Also, after releasing of the compressed air, the controller317closes the secured vent hole. Thus, a state cooled by the compressed air can be maintained.

Seventh Embodiment

A seventh embodiment is an example of the flowchart of the releasing process according to the sixth embodiment further being improved. The configurations of the vehicle and cooling apparatus310in the seventh embodiment are the same as those in the fifth embodiment.

FIG. 12is a flowchart of the releasing process of the cooling apparatus310according to the seventh embodiment of the present invention. With the flowchart inFIG. 12, the same steps as those inFIG. 11are denoted with the same step numbers as with the sixth embodiment, and description thereof will be omitted.

With the flowchart inFIG. 12, upon confirming the user's boarding, the controller317obtains information for determining whether or not the releasing process is needed (step ST21).

The controller317obtains, for example, a detection signal of the temperature or humidity of the passenger space3, a detection signal of the temperature of the compressed air in the tank314, an opening/closing detection signal of the window glass6or door panel5, an operation detection signal of the air conditioning apparatus mounted on the vehicle body302, and so forth.

After obtaining information, the controller317determines whether or not the releasing process is needed, based on the obtained information (step ST22).

For example, in the event that the temperature or humidity of the passenger space3is low, cooling is not needed, and accordingly, the controller317determines that releasing is not needed. In the event that the temperature of the compressed air in the tank314is high, no high cooling effect can be expected, and accordingly, the controller317determines that releasing is not needed. In the event that the pressure of the compressed air in the tank314is higher than a predetermined value, the releasing pressure of the compressed air is high, and accordingly, the controller317determines to perform no releasing. In the event that the remaining amount of the battery is small, ignition voltage runs short, and the engine7may not be started, and accordingly, the controller317determines to perform no releasing.

In the event that the releasing process is determined not to be executed, the controller317ends the processing inFIG. 12without executing the releasing process. In the event that the releasing process is determined to be executed, the controller317further confirms whether or not there is a vent hole (step ST12).

Also, the controller317secures a vent hole (step ST13), and then executes the releasing process.

As described above, in the event that the user has got into the vehicle, the controller317releases the compressed air into the passenger space3. In particular, the controller317determines whether or not releasing is needed, based on the temperature or the like in the passenger space3. Thus, wasteful releasing of the compressed air can be reduced.