Patent ID: 10493879

Abstract:
In a preferred embodiment there is disclosed a vehicular seat element comprising a foam substrate, the foam substrate comprising an A-surface for contact by an occupant and a B-surface opposed to the A-surface, a central portion of the A-surface have a first surface area and comprising a plurality of channels, the central portion of the A-surface comprising an occupant contact portion having a second surface area, wherein the first surface area is greater than the second surface area, a plurality of apertures disposed in the plurality of channels, each aperture interconnecting the A-surface and the B-surface of the foam substrate. The plurality of channels acts a distribution manifold for air to be moved laterally with respect to the A-surface of the foam pad and also through the holes in the seat pad to allow for circulation of air. In other words, the through holes in the foam provide a pass for air to flow from the B-surface of the foam pad to the A-surface of the foam pad, and vice versa. This air flow is further promoted by compressing and decompressing of the foam by the mass of the occupant while the vehicle is in motion. This compression and decompression of the foam creates a so-called bellows effect to push or pull air through the vehicular seat. Ideally, the series of channels molded in the A-surface of the foam pad form a manifold that enhances air distribution by providing multiple paths for the air flow around (not just beneath) the occupant and through the seat.