SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR DYNAMIC CLIMATE CONTROL

Methods and systems are provided for managing cabin conditions. A fogging metric and a breath temperature metric are determined. A control signal response is generated based on the fogging metric and the breath temperature metric. The system facilitates modification to the operation control of the at least one climate control device based on the control signal response.

INTRODUCTION

The present disclosure is directed to dynamic climate control and, more particularly, to detecting and responding to fogging conditions, breath temperature, or both.

SUMMARY

In some embodiments, the present disclosure is directed to systems and methods for detecting or estimating fogging conditions. For example, the system may determine an extent or probability of fogging, which may provide an indication of visibility at a windshield or window, based on solar flux, ambient temperature, cabin temperature, air flow rate, relative humidity or dew point temperature, vehicle speed, or a combination thereof.

In some embodiments, the present disclosure is directed to systems and methods for determining a response for, and responding to, fogging conditions. For example, in some embodiments, the system determines the response based on a fogging metric, which may be determined based on available sensor signals.

In some embodiments, the present disclosure is directed to systems and methods for detecting or estimating breath temperature. For example, breath temperature may provide an indication of occupant comfort, and may be estimated based on available temperature sensor signals, air flow rate, duct door positions, any other suitable conditions, or any combination thereof.

In some embodiments, the present disclosure is directed to systems and methods for determining a response for, and responding to, breath temperature. For example, in some embodiments, the system determines the response based on a temperature metric, such as a breath temperature estimate, which may be determined based on available sensor signals.

In some embodiments, the present disclosure is directed to systems and methods for managing fogging conditions and breath temperature of a vehicle interior. In some embodiments, the method, as implemented by control circuitry of the system, includes determining a fogging metric for an interior of the vehicle, determining a breath temperature metric associated with one or more passengers within the interior, generating (e.g., based on the fogging metric and the breath temperature metric) a control signal response to modify an operational control of at least one climate control device associated with the vehicle, and facilitating modification to the operation control of the at least one climate control device based on the control signal response.

In some embodiments, determining the fogging metric includes determining a relative humidity corresponding to a windshield of the vehicle, determining a temperature corresponding to the windshield, determining a solar flux corresponding to the windshield, or determining a blower duty cycle, or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, determining the fogging metric is based on a dewpoint temperature corresponding to a windshield, a temperature corresponding to the windshield, and a temperature gradient corresponding to the windshield.

For example, the temperature gradient is determined based on a solar flux and a cabin air flow rate. In some embodiments, determining the control signal response based on the fogging metric and the breath temperature metric includes classifying the fogging metric based on a predetermined classification scheme. For example, one or more ranges defined by values of the fogging metric may be used to classify the fogging metric. In some embodiments, determining the control signal response based on the fogging metric and the breath temperature metric includes determining a response metric based on a functional relationship with the fogging metric. In some embodiments, the functional relationship is exponential. In some embodiments, the operational control includes a blower duty cycle, a heater temperature, a compressor speed, or an air system duct door position, or combinations thereof.

In some embodiments, determining the breath temperature metric includes determining a radiant temperature, determining an air temperature for the vehicle interior, or determining a convection metric for the vehicle interior. In some embodiments, the breath temperature metric includes a difference between a target breath temperature and an estimated breath temperature. In some such embodiments, the method includes determining the control signal response based on the fogging metric and the breath temperature metric by determining a heat demand metric, determining a heating rate, and determining at least one of a blower duty cycle or a target air discharge temperature, or combinations thereof.

In some embodiments, the method includes facilitating modification to the operational control at least one climate control device by controlling at least one of a blower, a resistance heater, a compressor, or an actuated duct door, or combinations thereof.

In some embodiments, determining the control signal response includes, for a first climate control device of the at least one climate control device, determining a first response based on the fogging metric, determining a second response based on the breath temperature metric, and comparing the first response to the second response. For example, the method may include comparing the first response and second response and determining which is greater.

In some embodiments, the method includes receiving a plurality of sensor signals from a plurality of sensors, which include at least one temperature sensor, at least one relative humidity sensor, a solar flux sensor, and a vehicle speed sensor.

In some embodiments, the system includes control circuitry and at least one climate control device, wherein the control circuitry is configured to implement the method. For example, in some embodiment, a non-transitory computer-readable medium includes instructions encoded thereon that when executed by control circuitry cause the control circuitry to determine the fogging metric for the vehicle interior, determine the breath temperature metric for the vehicle interior, generate the control signal response based on the fogging metric and on the breath temperature metric, and facilitate modification to the operation control of the at least one climate control device based on the control signal response.

DESCRIPTION

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems may include smarter (e.g., more sensors, adjustability, and/or response), more dynamic, and more integrated vehicle systems, which may be associated with a greater need for accurate estimations and optimal control strategies to efficiently actuate the system towards optimal thermal comfort and ensure cabin view clearing (e.g., defogging). One main challenge is to estimate the highly complex physics that may dictate the system performance, while relying on readily available signals and smoothly actuating system responses over a wide range of conditions. In some circumstances, a system may be configured to use more complex data-driven models, complex lookup tables, additional sensors, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the present disclosure is directed to methods and systems for managing view clearing and breath temperature based on available sensors and climate control devices, along with physics-based models.

To illustrate, climate control may subdivided into (i) view clearing control, and (ii) temperature control, and the requested system response may be determined as the maximum output of either control block.

View clearing control, for example, may use distinct ranges of a fogging metric (e.g., a fog factor) to diagnose a severity of windshield fog formation and then dictate a defogging system response based on one or more response functions that smoothly capture mild to aggressive responses.

Temperature control, for example, may implement an energy balance at cabin and/or component levels that dictate the target temperature and volumetric flow rate targets to ensure transient and steady cabin thermal comfort. For example, the cabin temperature feedback and a breath temperature estimation model may be used to ensure stability of the system with minimal dependence on calibration parameters.

In an illustrative example, the present disclosure may be directed to usage of physics-based models that take as input signals from sensors readily available in vehicles. In some embodiments, this approach may improve tradeoffs between reducing cost of additional sensors and maximizing accuracy and efficiency of cabin climate control for comfort and view clearing.

FIG.1shows a side view of illustrative vehicle100having cabin controller104(e.g., for controlling cabin system105), in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure. As illustrated, vehicle100includes vehicle interior102(also referred to herein as a “cabin”) that includes an interior volume of vehicle100and may, for example, correspond to an occupant compartment. In some embodiments, the vehicle interior102corresponds to a portion of the vehicle interior (e.g., the area around the driver). Vehicle100includes cabin controller104that is configured to control cabin system105, which may include a blower, a refrigeration cycle (e.g., having a compressor, evaporator, condenser, and throttle valve), duct doors (e.g., actuatable duct doors), a heater (e.g., an ohmic heater configured to generate heat based on current flow and a resistive element), any other suitable climate control device, or any combination thereof. In an illustrative example, a user may be located in vehicle interior102(e.g., in a seat) and may set a desired temperature. Cabin controller104may receive the desired temperature and determine a response based on fogging conditions at windshield103, an estimated temperature (e.g., a breath temperature) in vehicle interior102, environmental conditions199(e.g., temperature, pressure, humidity, precipitation), any other suitable information, or any combination thereof. In response, cabin controller104may adjust or otherwise control the blower, refrigeration cycle (e.g., a compressor thereof), duct doors (e.g., via an actuator), a heater (e.g., by controlling current flow), any other suitable climate control device, or any combination thereof

FIG.2shows a side view of illustrative vehicle interior200, with corresponding inputs and outputs for cabin controller104, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure. Vehicle interior200may correspond to vehicle interior102of vehicle100ofFIG.1, for example, and inputs and outputs may correspond to cabin controller104and/or cabin system105ofFIG.1. As illustrated inFIG.2, the cabin controller (e.g., cabin controller104) may be associated with the following inputs and outputs:

Illustrative Inputs291(e.g., based on sensor signals or user inputs)

201—Vehicle speed (e.g., as measured by an encoder on a motor shaft or drive shaft);202—Solar Flux (e.g., as measured by an irradiance sensor such as an absorption sensor);203—Windshield Relative Humidity (e.g., an electrochemical sensor, or otherwise a sensor based on resistance, capacitance, or temperature);204—Windshield Temperature (e.g., a thermocouple, thermistor, RTD, or other sensor);205—Cabin Temperature (e.g., a thermocouple, thermistor, RTD, or other sensor);206—Setpoint Temperature (e.g., as received at an interface such as a user interface); and207—other suitable inputs (e.g., evaporator temperature, blower speed, compressor speed, duct door positions as measured or sensed).

211—Cabin Flow Rate (e.g., as adjusted by a speed of a blower motor);212—Discharge Temperature (e.g., leaving the cabin system105);213—Compressor Speed (e.g., of a refrigeration cycle for AC and defrosting);214—HVAC Door Positions (e.g., doors that may be actuated to adjust openings); and215—PTC heater current (e.g., to achieve a target heating rate).

In an illustrative example, cabin controller104may take as input any or all of illustrative inputs291, determine a response based on the input, and then cause one or more climate control devices to achieve the desired output at least partially (e.g., the climate control device might reach a target value or otherwise may tend towards the target value based on characteristics of the system). In some embodiments, cabin controller104may detect fogging conditions, detect temperature conditions, or both, and then determine a response based on the fogging conditions, temperature conditions, or a combination thereof.

FIG.3shows a block diagram of illustrative system300for managing cabin conditions of a vehicle, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure. As illustrated, system300(e.g., which may be included in vehicle100ofFIG.1) includes control system320(e.g., the same as cabin controller104ofFIG.1), user interface340, battery system330, cabin system350(e.g., similar to or the same as cabin system105ofFIG.1), and vehicle interior390(e.g., the same as vehicle interior200ofFIG.1, or vehicle interior102ofFIG.1).

Control system320, as illustrated, includes control circuitry321(e.g., as implemented by one or more electronic control units or ECUs), communications interface324(comm324), memory325(e.g., configured to store computer instructions), communications bus327, and optionally cabin manager326. Control circuitry321may include a processor, a communications bus (e.g., in addition to or instead of communications bus327), memory (e.g., in addition to or instead of memory325), power management circuitry, a power supply, any suitable components, or any combination thereof. Memory325may include solid state memory, a hard disk, removable media, any other suitable memory hardware, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, memory325is non-transitory computer readable media configured to store computer instructions that, when executed, perform at least some steps of any of processes400,500,600,700,800, or900described in the context ofFIGS.4-9. In some embodiments, instructions are preprogrammed into memory325, memory of one or more ECUs, or a combination thereof, for managing cabin system350or aspects thereof, determining vehicle information (e.g., including vehicle operating information), determining or receiving status updates, receiving and processing input from a user, or a combination thereof (e.g., as performed by cabin manager326). In some embodiments, the instructions are loaded or otherwise provided to control circuitry321to manage cabin system350, determine a fogging metric, determine a breath temperature metric, determine a response, generate a control signal, or a combination thereof. To illustrate, cabin manager326may be implemented by control circuitry321, operate separately but in communication with control circuitry321(e.g., via communications bus327), or a combination thereof.

Control system320may include an antenna and other control circuitry, or any combination thereof, and may be configured to access the internet, a local area network, a wide area network, a Bluetooth-enable device, an NFC-enabled device, any other suitable device using any suitable protocol, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, control system320includes or otherwise is coupled to user interface340, which may include, for example, a screen, a touchscreen, a touch pad, a keypad, one or more hard buttons, one or more soft buttons, a microphone, a speaker, any other suitable components, or any combination thereof. For example, in some embodiments, user interface340includes all or part of a dashboard, including displays, dials and gauges (e.g., actual or displayed), soft buttons, indicators, lighting, and other suitable features. In a further example, user interface340may include one or more hard buttons arranged at the exterior of the vehicle, interior of the vehicle (e.g., at the dash console), or at a dedicated keypad arranged at any suitable position. In a further example, user interface340may be configured to receive input from a user device (e.g., a smartphone), haptic input from a user, or both.

Comm324may include one or more ports, connectors, input/output (I/O) terminals, cables, wires, a printed circuit board, control circuitry, any other suitable components for communicating with other units, devices, or components, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, control system320(e.g., ECUs thereof) is configured to control a drivetrain (e.g., control an engine, electric motor, transmission, brake), cooling system, cabin system, braking system, autonomous control system, steering system, suspension system, control or manage battery system330, determine or receive information, communicate with other units, perform any other suitable actions, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, comm324, user interface340, or both, may be configured to send and receive wireless information between control system320and external devices such as, for example, a remote system (e.g., a server, a WiFi access point), a vehicle charger, a user device (e.g., a user device such as a smart phone), keyfobs, any other suitable devices, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, communications bus327is integrated with comm324(e.g., communicatively coupling ECUs, and user interface340). In some embodiments, communications bus327may be coupled to comm324.

Battery system330may include, for example, a vehicle battery pack that may include a plurality of battery cells. For example, battery system330may include battery cells, busbars, current collectors, enclosures, DC bus cables or otherwise conductors, contactors, switches, sensors and instrumentation, any other suitable components, or any combination thereof.

As illustrated, cabin system350, which may be the same as cabin system105, includes sensor system351(e.g., including one or more sensors and/or a sensor interface) and climate control devices such as cabin air system360, refrigeration system370, and heating system380. Cabin air system360is configured to pressurize and direct air flow to the cabin (i.e., vehicle interior390) and includes blower361and one or more duct doors362. Blower361may include an electric motor and a fan and may be configured to cause air to flow through cabin air system360, directed by one or more duct doors362to regions of the cabin, dash, floor, windshield, console, or a combination thereof. For example, control system320(e.g., control circuitry321or cabin manager326thereof) may generate control signals for controlling a motor of blower361(e.g., controlling a motor speed, current, PWM duty cycle, or other suitable parameter), a position of one or more duct doors362(e.g., controlling an actuator position, current, or voltage), any other suitable device, or any combination thereof. In a further example, one or more duct doors362may be configured to direct or restrict air flow through evaporator372of refrigeration system370to cool air, dry the air, or both based on the control signal. Refrigeration system370may include a compressor (e.g., compressor371including an electric motor and compressor assembly), a condenser, evaporator (e.g., evaporator372), and a throttle valve, along with any other suitable components, sensors, and plumbing. Refrigeration system370may be configured to operate using a refrigerant as a working fluid to achieve sub-ambient temperatures for cooling and/or drying air provided by blower361. Heating system380may include one or more ohmic heaters or other suitable heating devices (e.g., heat recovery devices including heat exchangers) for transferring heat to air provided by cabin air system360. For example, refrigeration system370and heating system380may be used to provide air at temperatures above or below ambient temperatures (e.g., and at suitable flow rates and heating/cooling rates to provide defogging, comfort, or both).

In an illustrative example, control system320may include cabin manager326, which may include one or more ECUs used to control operation of cabin system350. Cabin manager326may be associated with control circuitry of a particular ECU of control circuitry321, distributed among ECUs of control circuitry321(e.g., connected by communications bus327), a separate controller, any other suitable control circuitry, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, cabin manager326may be configured to generate control signals, receive sensor signals, implement and update an algorithm (e.g., manage a state machine, state-flow system, logic instructions, or other suitable algorithm or combination thereof), update setpoints or targets, measure or determine vehicle operating information (e.g., measured or estimated temperatures, heat transfer, humidity psychometrics, or any other suitable information), receive information (e.g., from a remote system), retrieve reference information, determine a response, perform any other operation, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, cabin manager326, memory325, or both, are configured to store information for managing view clearing and cabin comfort. In some embodiments, cabin manager326is configured to generate a display at user interface340to show the occupant available adjustments, system performance, current conditions (e.g., temperature, fogging metric), target conditions, reference values (e.g., predetermined limits, saturations, or thresholds), any other suitable information, or any combination thereof. In an illustrative example, suitable components of cabin system350may be configured to operate based on respective setpoints, and control circuitry321, cabin manager326, or a combination thereof is configured to modify the setpoints to manage view clearing and comfort.

In some embodiments, cabin system350is configured to provide occupant comfort, interior environment control, or otherwise affect cabin air conditions. In an illustrative example, a cabin air system360, and control circuitry321, cabin manager326, or a combination thereof are configured to modify or cease modifying at least one cabin air setting such as air-conditioning setpoint (e.g., based on compressor speed), blower fan setpoint (e.g., a speed of a blower motor), heating temperature setpoint (e.g., as achieved by controlling current flow across a resistive element), total heating or cooling rate, duration of heating or cooling, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, for example, control circuitry321, cabin manager326, or a combination thereof is configured to increase or decrease an AC setpoint for a desired comfort level, turn seat heating and cooling ON or OFF, enable automatic defogging or defrosting, adjust air flow rate, adjust air discharge temperature, or otherwise affect cabin conditions in vehicle interior390.

FIGS.4-10are flowcharts illustrating processes400-1000, which may be performed by system300(e.g., control system320thereof). For example, computer-readable instructions for implementing processes400-1000may be stored in memory325and may be implemented by control circuitry321, cabin manager326, or a combination thereof.

FIG.4is a flowchart of illustrative process400for managing cabin conditions, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure.

Step402includes the system receiving one or more inputs. In some embodiments, step402includes receiving the one or more inputs from sensors450. For example, sensors450may include a plurality of sensors such as at least one temperature sensor, at least one relative humidity sensor, a solar flux sensor, a vehicle speed sensor, any other suitable sensor, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, as illustrated, step402may include receiving user input403at a suitable interface (e.g., user interface340ofFIG.3). For example, user input403may include a selection of a knob, hard button, soft button, selectable icon or feature of a touchscreen, a menu item, any other suitable input or selection, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, reference information404may be provided, retrieved from, or otherwise input to step402. For example, reference information404may include preference information, maximum or minimum limits, thresholds, hierarchies, component information and capacities, predetermined setpoints, algorithm information, parameter values, any other suitable information, or any combination thereof.

Step410includes the system managing view clearing. In some embodiments, managing view clearing may include performing fogging detection at step411and determining a fogging response at step412. To illustrate, the system may calculate a fogging metric at step411(e.g., based on available sensor signals and physics-based models) and then determine a response based on the fogging metric at step412(e.g., to achieve some target or goal).

Step420includes the system managing cabin temperature, such as a breath temperature for example. In some embodiments, managing the cabin temperature may include performing temperature detection at step421and determining a temperature response at step422. To illustrate, the system may calculate a temperature metric at step421(e.g., based on available sensor signals and physics-based models) and then determine a response based on the temperature metric at step422(e.g., to achieve some target or goal).

Step430includes the system determining one or more outputs based on step410, step420, or a combination thereof. For example, at step430the system may determine a target blower duty cycle, target blower speed, target airflow, target discharge temperature, target evaporator temperature, target cooling rate, target compressor speed, target heater temperature, target heater heating rate, target duct door positions, any other suitable outputs, any changes in output thereof, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, at step430, the system may receive outputs from steps410and420, and then determine an output based on received values. For example, the system may determine a maximum or most extreme output from among steps410and420and select that output.

Step432includes the system generating one or more control signals. For example,

based on the outputs determined at step430, the system may generate control signals for controlling a heater, a refrigeration system or components thereof, a cabin air system, a condenser/radiator/fan module, any other suitable climate control device, or any combination thereof.

Step434includes the system causing one or more climate control devices to achieve a response, by modifying an operational control. The control signals generated at step432cause the one or more climate control devices to achieve or partially achieve the target response. For example, control signals of step432may cause the one or more climate control devices to achieve a target blower speed, a target compressor speed, a target airflow rate, a target discharge temperature, a target heating rate, a target cooling rate, changes thereof, or any combination thereof.

FIG.5is a flowchart of illustrative process500for determining a response to managing cabin conditions, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure. For example, in some embodiments, process500is an example of process400. For example, step501, which may correspond to step402, may include determining one or more inputs such as vehicle speed, solar flux, relative humidity, windshield temperature, cabin temperature, discharge temperature, evaporator temperature, user set temperature, any other suitable input (e.g., retrieved, measured or otherwise determined), or any combination thereof. Step520includes managing view clearing and may correspond to step410, for example. To illustrate, step520may include determining a fog metric and then determining a response based on the fog metric. Step530includes managing temperature control (e.g., breath temperature control) and may correspond to step420. To illustrate, step530may include comparing a determined target temperature and a temperature estimate, and then determining a response (e.g., a heating rate, a cooling rate, a blower setting, a compressor setting, a door setting) based on the comparison. Step510includes determining a maximum response from the output of steps520and530. To illustrate, step510may correspond to step430ofFIG.4. For example, for each climate control device or a subset thereof, the system may determine a most extreme setpoint (e.g., a maximum or minimum) at step510and then generate a control signal based on the extreme setpoint. For example, step599, which may correspond to step432, step434, or both, may include determining one or more outputs, generating one or more output signals (e.g., one or more control signals), or otherwise controlling one or more climate devices by modifying an operational control (e.g., several of which are listed). The one or more outputs may include, for example, cabin air flow rate (e.g., a blower speed), discharge temperature, compressor speed (e.g., of a refrigeration cycle), an evaporator temperature, one or more door positions (e.g., to direct cabin air), a heater current or power, any other suitable input (e.g., retrieved, measured or otherwise determined), or any combination thereof. In an illustrative example,FIGS.6-7may correspond to step520, andFIGS.8-9may correspond to step530.

FIG.6is a flowchart of illustrative process600for detecting fogging conditions, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure. To illustrate, process600may be the same as or otherwise include at least some of the same processes of step410of process400(e.g., step411thereof). Process600may be performed by control system320ofFIG.3(e.g., control circuitry321, cabin manager326, or both), cabin controller104ofFIG.1, any other suitable system, or any combination thereof. For example, computer readable instructions for implementing process600may be stored in memory325.

Step601includes the system receiving input such as, for example, one or more sensor signals, any other suitable input, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, at step601, the system determines a value of an input based on received sensor signals, reference information (e.g., physical constants, parameters, scaling coefficient), models, logic operations, any other suitable criterion, or any combination thereof. As illustrated, the system may receive or otherwise determine a windshield temperature Tw, relative humidity RHw(e.g., corresponding to the windshield, such as windshield relative humidity), solar flux (e.g., irradiation in a suitable spectral range as measured by an absorption sensor, vehicle speed (e.g., based on a motor speed or shaft speed), blower duty cycle DB, any other suitable input, or any combination thereof.

Step610includes the system determining a fogging metric or otherwise determining an indication of fogging (e.g., fog detection). As illustrated, step610may be a process that includes any or all of steps612,614,616,618, and620.

Step612includes the system determining a windshield dew point temperature TDPw (e.g., based on windshield relative humidity RHw). For example, for a particular value of relative humidity, and optionally based on a barometric pressure or other state information, the system may determine a temperature at which water vapor in the air will begin to condense from the vapor phase to the liquid phase (e.g., the dew point temperature).

Step614includes the system determining whether solar load is present, or otherwise determine an indication of solar load. In some embodiments, the system determines a binary classification (e.g., “yes” or “no” regarding whether there is solar loading). In some embodiments, the system determines a value, qualitative indication, or quantitative indication of solar load. For example, in some embodiments, the system may estimate an amount of solar flux, an amount of heat absorbed from solar flux, a temperature difference arising from solar flux, any other suitable value, or any combination thereof. To illustrate, for negligible or otherwise lesser values of solar flux, the system may determine the solar load is negligible or otherwise there is no solar load. For greater values of solar flux, the system may determine a solar load value or otherwise determine there is solar loading.

Step616includes the system determining an indication of external cabin airflow, internal cabin airflow, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the system determines a binary classification (e.g., “yes” or “no” regarding whether there is airflow). In some embodiments, the system determines a value, qualitative indication, or quantitative indication of airflow or convection at the exterior (e.g., based on vehicle speed, ambient conditions) and/or interior of the cabin (e.g., based on blower speed or duty cycle). For example, in some embodiments, the system may estimate an amount of airflow (e.g., a rate), an air velocity, an air convective coefficient, a temperature difference arising from convection, any other suitable value, or any combination thereof. To illustrate, for negligible or otherwise lesser values of airflow (e.g., zero vehicle speed, zero blower duty cycle), the system may determine the cabin flow is negligible or otherwise there is no cabin flow. For greater values of vehicle speed and/or blower duty cycle, the system may determine a cabin airflow value or otherwise determine there is cabin airflow.

Step618includes the system determining a windshield temperature gradient ΔTw. In some embodiments, the system may determine (e.g., estimate) a difference in windshield temperature at two or more different locations on the windshield to calculate the windshield temperature gradient. In some embodiments, the system may determine based on steps614and616a windshield temperature gradient. For example, for greater solar loading and greater cabin airflow, the system may estimate a larger value of the windshield temperature gradient. In some embodiments, the system may apply a heat transfer model to the windshield domain (e.g., solid state conductivity), with convective and radiative boundary conditions to estimate the windshield temperature gradient. The system may determine the windshield temperature gradient in units of temperature (e.g., temperature difference), temperature per unit length (K/m), non-dimensional units (e.g., normalized), any other suitable units indicative of a temperature gradient, or any combination thereof. To illustrate, the system may determine a 0-D (e.g., a single value or a point), 1-D (e.g., a vector or a line), 2-D (e.g., a 2-D array or a plane), or 3-D (e.g., a 3-D array or a volume) indication of the gradient. To illustrate, because the windshield temperature may be measured at one location (e.g., a sensor location), the temperature gradient accounts for changes from that measured temperature spatially across the windshield.

Step620includes the system determining the fogging metric such as a fog factor FF. As illustrated, the system uses FF=Tw−ΔTw−TDPwto determine the fog factor. The system determines the fogging metric based on a function (e.g., parameterized, piecewise), a set of logic operations, a databased or lookup table, any other suitable mapping or relationship, or any combination thereof. In an illustrative example, the system may implement step610(e.g., step620thereof) to create a virtual sensor for measuring fogging or expectation for fogging. In some circumstances, condensation is not directly measured by a sensor and the system uses available sensor signals, conditions, and physical models to estimate fogging in real time. The fog factor of step620may provide an indication of fogging or otherwise may be used to determine how clear the windshield or windows are for viewing by the occupant.

Step699includes the system outputting the fogging metric of step610. For example, as illustrated, for increased values of FF, the less likely fog is to be present. For lesser values of FF, the more likely fog is to be present. For example, for FF values less than zero, complete fogging is expected. For FF values in a first range (e.g., 0-5), partial fogging is expected (e.g., patchy fog covering most but not all of the windshield). For FF values in a second range (e.g., 5-10), partially clearing is expected (e.g., patchy fog covering only a portion of the windshield). For FF values in a third range (e.g., greater than 10), complete clearing is expected (e.g., no water condensed on the windshield). While illustrated for a nominal range of 0-10, a fogging metric may be scaled in any suitable manner (e.g., 0 to 1, −1 to 1, 0 to 100), classified as belonging to a range (e.g., without a numerical value), or may be unscaled (e.g., and compared with a suitable reference or guide).

FIG.7is a flowchart of illustrative process700for responding to fogging conditions, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure. To illustrate, process700may the same as or otherwise include at least some of the same processes of step410of process400(e.g., step412thereof). To illustrate further, process700may be applied to the output of process600to determine a response to the fogging metric determined during process600. Process700may be performed by control system320ofFIG.3(e.g., control circuitry321, cabin manager326, or both), cabin controller104ofFIG.1, any other suitable system, or any combination thereof. For example, computer readable instructions for implementing process700may be stored in memory325.

Step701includes the system receiving input such as, for example, a determined fogging metric such as fog factor, one or more sensor signals, any other suitable input, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, at step701, the system determines a value of an input based on received sensor signals, reference information (e.g., physical constants, parameters, scaling coefficient), models, logic operations, any other suitable criterion, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, for example, process600may be combined with process700, and step701need not be a separate step (e.g., the output of process600may be provided to step702).

Step702includes the system mapping a response to the input received at step701. As illustrated, a fogging metric such as a fog factor may be received at step701, and the system may map a response metric using relationship703(e.g., which may be a function). As illustrated, relationship703is an exponential function, which may be continuous, piecewise continuous, or other suitable exponential functions. For example, in some embodiments, relationship703may be characterized as one or more of the following:

where “A” is a coefficient of order one “O(1),” “FF” is fog factor or other suitable fogging metric, and “σ” is a scaling factor. In some embodiments, σ may be dependent on FF (e.g., factors σ1, σ2, and σ3, which may be the same or different, in ranges defined by fog factor values FF0, FF1, FF2, and FF3). In some embodiments, a time scale for response is also determined based on FF (e.g., time constants τ1, τ2, and τ3) to affect how quickly the system responds to the fogging metric. It will be understood that although three ranges are shown for FF inFIG.7, any suitable discretization may be used in accordance with the present disclosure (e.g., one range, two ranges, more than three ranges). The system may implement any or all of relationships 1-3 above, any other suitable relationship, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the system may map a value of a fogging metric (e.g., indicated by the ♦ symbol) to a response value based on relationship703(e.g., indicated by the ● symbol).

Step704includes the system determining a response based on the mapping of step702. In some embodiments, a fogging metric in the “FOGGED” range corresponds to an aggressive response (e.g., greater response), a fogging metric in the “PARTIAL” range corresponds to an intermediate response (e.g., a relatively lesser response), and a fogging metric in the “CLEARED” range corresponds to a mild response or otherwise no response. Based on the response (e.g., aggressive, intermediate, mild, or none), the system may determine a setpoint, a change to a setpoint, a target value, a rate, any other suitable response, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, steps702and704may be combined, wherein the response is mapped to the fogging metric without classifying the fogging metric or response. For example, a response such as blower duty cycle, heater temperature, compressor speed, or duct door positions may be mapped directly to FF without necessarily classifying as aggressive or mild.

Step706includes the system determining a target output, based on the determined response at step704. In some embodiments, step706includes generating a control signal based on the target output. In some embodiments, step7065includes causing at least one climate control device to affect a change to the cabin conditions to reduce fogging, increase comfort, prevent an increase in fogging, prevent an increase in discomfort, or a combination thereof. For example, the blower duty cycle may be increased (e.g., more aggressive response) to increase blower motor speed and thus air flow and thus convection in the vehicle interior. In a further example, a temperature of a heater may be increased (e.g., more aggressive response), by increasing current flow, to raise the air discharge temperature and thus lower relative humidity and the propensity for fogging. In a further example, a compressor speed may be increased (e.g., more aggressive response), by increasing compressor motor currents, to increase a pressure differential and/or mass flow rate of refrigerant, thus resulting in increased heat transfer and/or lower AC temperatures. In a further example, one or more duct doors may be opened or closed to direct airflow, increase or decrease air flow rate, affect air discharge temperature, or a combination thereof. To illustrate, door openings may be adjusted to direct more airflow to the windshield to improve defogging or defrosting (e.g., more aggressive response for view clearing), or direct more airflow to the cabin towards the occupant to affect comfort (e.g., breath temperature).

FIG.8is a flowchart of illustrative process800for detecting breath temperature, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure. To illustrate, process800may the same as or otherwise include at least some of the same processes of step420of process400(e.g., step421thereof). Process800may be performed by control system320ofFIG.3(e.g., control circuitry321, cabin manager326, or both), cabin controller104ofFIG.1, any other suitable system, or any combination thereof. For example, computer readable instructions for implementing process800may be stored in memory325.

Step801includes the system receiving or otherwise determining inputs. For example, the system may receive input such as, for example, one or more sensor signals, any other suitable input, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, at step701, the system determines a value of an input based on received sensor signals, reference information (e.g., physical constants, parameters, scaling coefficient), models, logic operations, any other suitable criterion, or any combination thereof. As illustrated, the system may receive or otherwise determine a cabin temperature Tcab, windshield temperature Tw, heater temperature TPTC, blower duty cycle DB, any other suitable input, or any combination thereof.

Step802includes the system determining a mean radiant temperature Trad. In some embodiments, the mean radiant temperature is a function of cabin temperature Tcaband windshield temperature Tw, such as Trad=ƒ1(Tcab, Tw), for example. In some embodiments, Tradneed not be determined based on a function and may be determined based on any suitable inputs or combination of inputs, using any suitable mapping (e.g., a function, a database, set of logic operations, a model, or a combination thereof).

Step804includes the system determining a mean air temperature Tair. In some embodiments, the mean air temperature is a function of cabin temperature Tcab, windshield temperature Tw, and heater temperature TPTC, such as Tair=ƒ2(Tcab, Tw, TPTC), for example. In some embodiments, Tairneed not be determined based on a function and may be determined based on any suitable inputs or combination of inputs, using any suitable mapping (e.g., a function, a database, set of logic operations, a model, or a combination thereof).

Step806includes the system determining a convective coefficient C (e.g., corresponding to the vehicle interior or a portion thereof). In some embodiments, the convective coefficient is a function of blower duty cycle DB, such as C=ƒ3(DB), for example. In some embodiments, C need not be determined based on a function and may be determined based on any suitable inputs or combination of inputs, using any suitable mapping (e.g., a function, a database, set of logic operations, a model, or a combination thereof). In an illustrative example, the system may determine the convective coefficient using C=aBc, wherein “a” is a coefficient, B is blower speed (e.g., as determined based on a sensor such as an encoder or based on blower duty cycle), and “c” is an exponent.

Step810includes the system determining (e.g., estimating) a breath temperature Tb. For example, in some embodiments, the breath temperature is determined based on the output of steps802,804, and806, as illustrated. In a further example, the breath temperature may be a function of mean radiant temperature Trad, mean air temperature Tair, and convective coefficient C, such as Tb=ƒ4(Trad, Tair, C), for example. In an illustrative example, the system may determine the breath temperature using Tb=Trad+C(Tair−Trad), wherein C is of order one O(1).

In an illustrative example, the system may implement process800to create a virtual sensor for measuring breath temperature. In some circumstances, breath temperature is not directly measured (e.g., no sensor located on or very near an occupant) and the system uses available sensor signals, conditions, and physical models to estimate breath temperature in real time. In some embodiments, the system may determine a single scalar temperature value. In some embodiments, the system may determine a scalar temperature field (e.g., at predetermined locations or domains), a gradient (e.g., a single value or a field), a temporal change (e.g., a time derivative or difference), any other suitable value or set of values, or any combination thereof. The output of process of800may include a breath temperature estimate, which provides an indication of comfort or otherwise may be used to determine an indication of comfort for the occupant.

FIG.9is a flowchart of illustrative process900for responding to breath temperature, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure. To illustrate, process900may be the same as or otherwise include at least some of the same processes of step420of process400(e.g., step422thereof). To illustrate further, process900may be applied to the output of process800to determine a response to the temperature metric determined during process800. Process900may be performed by control system320ofFIG.3(e.g., control circuitry321, cabin manager326, or both), cabin controller104ofFIG.1, any other suitable system, or any combination thereof. For example, computer readable instructions for implementing process900may be stored in memory325.

Step902includes the system determining a target breath temperature. In some embodiments, the system may receive a user setpoint or a setpoint provided by cabin manager326(e.g., based on reference information or user preferences) at step998. For example, the user may adjust a setpoint using user interface340ofFIG.3, which may include a button, a turnable knob, a sliding switch or selector, any other suitable selectable options, or any combination thereof. The selectable option may correspond to a desired temperature, a desired heating or cooling rate, any other suitable cabin setting, a change thereof, or any combination thereof.

Step990includes the system estimating or otherwise determining a breath temperature based on cabin conditions. For example, step990may include the system implementing process800ofFIG.8to determine breath temperature based on one or more sensor signals, a model, any other suitable information, or any combination thereof.

Step904includes the system determining a difference between the target breath temperature of step902and the determined breath temperature based on cabin conditions at step990. The difference (e.g., ΔT) is indicative of the difference between the current conditions and target conditions of the cabin, and accordingly the system may determine a relatively greater response based on a relatively greater difference.

Step906includes the system determining a heat demand or otherwise indication of target heating or cooling. In some embodiments, the system may determine a total heat that must be removed or provided and also a heat rate to govern the rate at which heat is removed or added.

For example, the heat removal may be estimated as Q=mCΔT, or in rate form as dQ/dt=d(mCT)/dt or in some circumstances dQ/dt=massflowair*C*ΔT. In some embodiments, the heat transfer rate may be limited based on system performance limitations, limitations to changes to user comfort, predetermined saturation limits, any other suitable criterion, or any combination thereof. The system may determine the heating or cooling demand based on a function, lookup table, database, logical operations, any other suitable relationship, any other suitable information, or any combination thereof.

Step908includes the system determining a target blower duty cycle, target discharge temperature, any other suitable target value, or any combination thereof. For example, based on the heat/cool demand of step906, the system may determine a massflowair, target discharge air temperature, or any other suitable parameter, and then determine a blower duty cycle based on the parameter(s). In some embodiments, the system may use a reference (e.g., stored in memory325) relationship between heat/cool demand, blower duty cycle, and target discharge temperature.

Step910includes the system determining a refrigeration response or otherwise generate one or more control signals for controlling the refrigeration system (e.g., to control a compressor speed or other aspect of the system). For example, in some embodiments, at step910, the system determines a target compressor speed and generates a corresponding control signal (e.g., a voltage, current, PWM duty cycle, or any other suitable signal). In some embodiments, at step910, the system may determine a target evaporator temperature, refrigerant flow rate, or other parameter, and then determine a corresponding compressor speed. ReferencingFIG.3, control system320may transmit a control signal to compressor371of refrigeration system370, to control the speed of compressor371(e.g., by controlling a speed of a compressor motor).

Step912includes the system determining a heater response based on the target discharge temperature of step908. For example, in some embodiments, the system determines a target discharge temperature at step908, and then determines a current flow at step912that corresponds to the target discharge temperature. In some embodiments, at step912, the system determines a heating rate (e.g., the product of current and voltage), a commanded current, a saturation or limit to heating rate, a change in heating rate, a duty cycle (e.g., a PWM duty cycle), any other suitable parameter, or change thereof, or any combination thereof to affect operation of a heater (e.g., a positive temperature coefficient heater (PTC) that may include ceramic). To illustrate, the greater the target discharge temperature (e.g., as compared to a reference or measured temperature), the greater the heater response. ReferencingFIG.3, control system320may transmit a control signal to heating system380to control heating rate, temperature, or both of a heater of heating system380.

Step914includes the system determining a response for one or more doors of a ducting system of the cabin system. For example, at step914, the system may determine a respective position or change in position for each door of a set of one or more doors, and then generate a respective control signal to control a respective actuator coupled to each respective door. ReferencingFIG.3, control system320may transmit a control signal to duct door(s)362of cabin air system360to control a position of duct door(s)362.

Step950includes the system affecting cabin conditions by controlling an HVAC module, condenser/radiator/fan module (CRFM), refrigeration system, any other suitable system or climate control device thereof, or any combination thereof. For example, the temperature, convective environment (e.g., airflow rate and distribution), or a combination thereof of the cabin may be affected by steps910,912, and914. Based on the cabin air conditions or changes thereof in the cabin, the system may estimate breath temperature at step990as part of the feedback control loop to control cabin conditions based on user input (e.g., at step998).

Step901includes the system determining one or more boundary conditions, disturbances, constraints, or a combination thereof. For example, the system may determine a convective boundary condition (e.g., based on vehicle speed), a radiation boundary condition (e.g., based on a solar flux sensor), a surface temperature, an environmental condition (e.g., ambient humidity, temperature, pressure, wind, precipitation, visibility), a vehicle setting (e.g., current draw or limits thereof, performance limits, hierarchy of current flow in view of a current limit), predetermined user setpoints, any other suitable information, any changes thereof, or any combination thereof.

As illustrated, processes600,700,800, and900ofFIGS.6-9may be implemented by process400or500ofFIGS.4-5. For example, processes400and500may include fog detection (e.g., process600), determine a response to fogging (e.g., process700), temperature detection (e.g., process800), or determining a response to the temperature detection (e.g., process900).

In an illustrative example, process600may include determining a fogging metric for a vehicle interior and process800may include determining a breath temperature metric. Steps430,432,510,599,704,706,908,910,912,914,950, or a combination thereof may include determining a response based on the fogging metric and the breath temperature metric. For example, processes700and900may include determining respective responses for view clearing and cabin comfort. Steps432,434,599,706, and950may include controlling at least one climate control device based on the response.

In a further illustrative example, determining a fogging metric (e.g., at step411,520, and/or step620) may include determining a relative humidity corresponding to a windshield of the vehicle, determining a temperature corresponding to the windshield, determining a solar flux corresponding to the windshield, determining a blower duty cycle, determining any other suitable metric indicative of fogging or visibility, or any combination thereof.

In a further illustrative example, determining the fogging metric determining the fogging metric (e.g., at step411,520, and/or step620) may include determining, or otherwise be based on, a dewpoint temperature corresponding to a windshield, a temperature corresponding to the windshield, and a temperature gradient corresponding to the windshield. For example, the temperature gradient may be estimated or otherwise determined based on a solar flux and a cabin air flow rate.

In a further illustrative example, determining a response based on the fogging metric and the breath temperature metric comprises classifying the fogging metric based on a predetermined classification scheme. For example, the system at step412,520,704and/or step706, the system may access reference information (e.g., reference information404), which may include a lookup table, database, state flow instructions, logic instructions, or other suitable information for instructions for determining the response based on the fogging metric. In a further example, the system may classify a range to which the fogging metric belongs (e.g., as falling between successive thresholds which define the range), and then determine the response based on the range. To illustrate, the classification scheme may allow for some discretization of the response based on discreet ranges or classes, rather than a continuous range of response. In some embodiments, the system need not use a classification scheme and may determine the response based on the fogging metric without classifying the fogging metric. In some embodiments, the system determines the response (e.g., based on the fogging metric and the breath temperature metric) by determining a response metric based on a functional relationship with the fogging metric. For example, the system may implement process702, wherein an exponential functional relationship is applied. In a further example, the response may include a blower duty cycle, a heater temperature, a compressor speed, an air system duct door position, any other suitable response, or combinations thereof.

In a further illustrative example, the system may determine a breath temperature metric at steps421,530,810, or a combination thereof. The system may determine the breath temperature metric by determining a radiant temperature, determining an air temperature for the vehicle interior, determining a convection metric for the vehicle interior, determining any other suitable parameter or operating characteristic, or any combination thereof. In a further example, the system may determine the breath temperature metric by determining a difference between a target breath temperature and an estimated breath temperature, and then determine the response (e.g., based on the fogging metric and the breath temperature metric). In some embodiments, the system determines a heat demand metric (e.g., a target heat/cool amount, heating/cooling rate), determines a heating rate or cooling rate, and determines at least one of a blower duty cycle or a target air discharge temperature, or combinations thereof.

In a further illustrative example, the system may control the at least one climate control device (e.g., at any or all of steps432,434,599,706, or950) by controlling at least one of a blower, a resistance heater, a compressor, or an actuated duct door, or combinations thereof (e.g., one or more of output devices440).

In a further illustrative example, determining the response based on the fogging metric and the breath temperature metric is based on a first climate control device of the at least one climate control device. For example, at any of steps430,432,510, or599may include the system determining a first response based on the fogging metric (e.g., at step704or706), determining a second response based on the breath temperature metric (e.g., at step908,910,912,914, or950), and then comparing the first response to the second response.

In a further illustrative example, the system may receive a plurality of sensor signals from a plurality of sensors at any or all of steps402,501,601, or801. To illustrate, the plurality of sensors may include, for example, at least one temperature sensor, at least one relative humidity sensor, a solar flux sensor, a vehicle speed sensor, any other suitable sensor, or any combination thereof.

In some circumstances, the system may operate in varying environmental climates and conditions, under varying operating conditions, and with varying user expectations or requirements. For example, in cold environments, the propensity to fog may be increased when the vehicle is starting and the system may determine the response to favor view clearing. In some embodiments, the system may detect fogging additionally at a side window or rear window, by applying process600. In some embodiments, the system may receive information about vehicle operating conditions or other vehicle information such as power consumption, power limits (e.g., current limits), component limits (e.g., maximum currents, speeds, or temperatures), user preferences, or a combination thereof to determine the response.

In some embodiments, the system determines a response for either or both of view clearing and breath temperature. In some embodiments, the system need not determine a response for both view clearing and breath temperature. For example, in some circumstances, the system may determine that the response for view clearing prevails and selects that response (e.g., during vehicle startup in cold weather). In a further example, if the ambient temperature is relatively large and/or the ambient humidity is relatively low, the system need not determine a fogging response.

FIG.10is a flowchart of illustrative process1000for modifying an operational control of at least one climate control device, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure. To illustrate, process1000may be performed by control system320, in order to control cabin system350to achieve conditions in vehicle interior390.

Step1002includes the system determining a fogging metric (e.g., for an interior of a vehicle such as a cabin). For example, step1002may include aspects of any or all of step410, step520, process600, or process700. In some embodiments, step1002includes determining the fogging metric based on one or more inputs such as, for example, a sensor signal (e.g., as illustrated by step401or step501ofFIGS.4-5). In some embodiments, step1002includes determining a relative humidity corresponding to a windshield of the vehicle, determining a temperature corresponding to the windshield, determining a solar flux corresponding to the windshield, determining a blower duty cycle, or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, step1002includes determining the fogging metric based on a dewpoint temperature corresponding to a windshield, a temperature corresponding to the windshield, and a temperature gradient corresponding to the windshield. The temperature gradient may be determined based on a solar flux and a cabin air flow rate, as illustrated by process600ofFIG.6.

Step1004includes the system determining a breath temperature metric (e.g., for the cabin or otherwise the interior of a vehicle). The breath temperature metric may be determined based on a passenger of the vehicle (e.g., a particular zone of the vehicle such as front seats, rear left seat), wherein an input is received as a user interface to specify a temperature or other condition or change thereof. For example, step1004may include aspects of any or all of step420, step530, process800, or process900. In some embodiments, step1004includes determining the fogging metric based on one or more inputs such as, for example, a sensor signal (e.g., as illustrated by step401or step501ofFIGS.4-5). In some embodiments, step1004includes determining a radiant temperature, determining an air temperature for the vehicle interior, determining a convection metric for the vehicle interior, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the breath temperature metric includes a difference between a target breath temperature and an estimated breath temperature.

Step1006includes the system determining whether modification to a climate control device is necessary. For example, the system may determine whether the modification to the climate control device is necessary based the fogging metric and breath temperature metric of steps1002and1004. In some embodiments, at step1006, the system determines a fogging response, breath temperature response, or a composite response, based on steps1002and1004, and then determines whether the modification is necessary. For example, if the determined response is greater than a threshold or otherwise outside of an operating range, then the system may determine that the modification is necessary. In a further example, if the response includes an adjustment in an operational control (e.g., a shaft speed, duct setting, temperature setting, valve position), or an adjustment in an operating characteristic (e.g., a measured temperature, pressure, humidity, or occupancy), then the system may determine that the modification is necessary. In some embodiments, step1006may be combined as part of either or both of steps1002and1004. For example, a fogging response and/or breath temperature response may determined at respective steps1002and1004, and thus step1006need not be performed separately. If the system determines the modification is necessary, the system may proceed to step1008. If the system determines the modification is not necessary (or not necessary yet), the system may exit process1000, continue to determine a fogging metric and breath temperature metric (e.g., based on updated data), or otherwise continue to monitor cabin conditions to determine if a modification becomes necessary.

Step1008includes generating a control signal response to modify an operational control of at least one climate control device associated with the vehicle. Step1008may generate the control signal response based on the fogging metric and the breath temperature metric. For example, step1008may include aspects of any or all of steps430,432, or510. For example, step1008may include generating a control signal response by determining a heat demand metric, determining a heating rate, determining at least one of a blower duty cycle or a target air discharge temperature, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, step1008includes generating the control signal response for a first climate control device of the at least one climate control device. In some such embodiments, step1008includes determining a first response based on the fogging metric, determining a second response based on the breath temperature metric, and comparing the first response to the second response (e.g., illustrated by steps430and432ofFIG.4, or step510ofFIG.5).

Step1010includes the system facilitating modification to the operation control of the at least one climate control device based on the control signal response of step1008. For example, step1010may include aspects of step434. In some embodiments, step1010includes controlling a blower, a resistance heater, a compressor, an actuated duct door, or any combinations thereof.

In an illustrative example, the system may generate the control signal response at step1008by classifying the fogging metric of step1002based on a predetermined classification scheme (e.g., as illustrated by process700ofFIG.7). In a further illustrative example, the system may generate the control signal response at step1008by determining a response metric based on a functional relationship with the fogging metric (e.g., as illustrated by the exponential functional relationship illustrated inFIG.7). Accordingly, the operation control may include a blower duty cycle, a heater temperature, a compressor speed, an air system duct door position, or combinations thereof, as illustrated inFIG.7.

In an illustrative example, the system may perform steps1020and1004based on inputs received. For example, the system may receive a plurality of sensor signals from a plurality of sensors. The plurality of sensors may include, for example, at least one temperature sensor, at least one relative humidity sensor, a solar flux sensor, a vehicle speed sensor, any other suitable sensor, or any combination thereof.