DE102008040306A1 - Heater for convectionally heating interior of e.g. lorry, has resistance heating element positioned such that heat from element is transferred to airflow flowing into interior, and dual layer capacitor supplying electrical energy to heater - Google Patents

Abstract

The heater (2) has an electrical resistance heating element (4) i.e. positive temperature coefficient ceramic element, positioned in a motorvehicle such that heat from the heating element is transferred to airflow flowing into an interior of the motorvehicle. The heater is activated independent of an operation of an engine of the motorvehicle. A dual layer capacitor (14) e.g. ultracapacitor, supplies electrical energy to the heater. A control unit (16) adjusts a heating performance of the heater based on sensor signals, which are supplied from a sensor e.g. inner temperature sensor. An independent claim is also included for a method for activating a heater for convectionally heating an interior of a motorvehicle.

Description

The The present invention relates to a motor vehicle heater for convective Heating a vehicle interior according to the The preamble of claim 1 and a method for upgrading such a motor vehicle heater according to the preamble of claim 15.

modern Engines, especially diesel engines, have such a high thermal / mechanical Efficiency on that their waste heat (with the engine running) no longer for heating, especially a quick one Heating, the vehicle interior is sufficient. Nevertheless, a sufficient Heating the vehicle interior to provide, in part Auxiliary heaters are used which have at least one electrical resistance heating element, in particular at least one PTC ceramic (PTC: positive temperature coefficient; German: positive temperature coefficient) in order to to convectively heat the vehicle interior. This electrical Resistance heating elements are usually integral in the Motor vehicle trained. In particular, they are in a channel the vehicle ventilation system and / or vehicle heating system, by the use of the vehicle ventilation system and / or Vehicle heating system promoted an air flow in the vehicle interior Is arranged. This will cause a heating of air that the Vehicle interior is supplied allows. In previously common motor vehicles, these heaters from a vehicle battery, through a rechargeable, electrochemical Cell (accumulator) is formed, supplied with electrical energy. An operation of such a heater with the motor vehicle engine off is not possible with the usual motor vehicles.

In order to enable a preheating of a vehicle interior (at rest motor vehicle engine), parking heaters are partly used, which are operated with fossil fuels and which are operable even when the motor vehicle engine is stationary. In addition to relatively high material costs for such auxiliary heaters and their integration into motor vehicles is complex and thus associated with relatively high costs. From an ecological point of view, these auxiliary heaters generally involve the detrimental effects which occur during the combustion of fossil fuels, in particular a CO ₂ emission and the emission of further, harmful exhaust gases.

In the DE 10 2006 049 148 A1 a method for operating an electric heater in a motor vehicle is described. When the motor vehicle engine is running, the electric auxiliary heater is supplied with electrical energy by a generator of the motor vehicle. If the generator does not supply power, which is the case in particular when the motor vehicle engine is at rest, the electric heater is supplied with electrical energy, if required, by at least one rechargeable electrochemical cell. In the case of a diesel engine or a gasoline engine as a motor vehicle engine, the electrochemical cell is formed by the vehicle battery.

By the, in the DE 10 2006 049 148 A1 described, electric heater is a heating of the vehicle interior allows even when the motor vehicle engine. Due to the power supply of the auxiliary heater (when the vehicle engine is stationary) by at least one electrochemical cell more frequent charging and discharging of the same is required. This leads to an increased load and thus to a shorter life of the respective electrochemical cell. Furthermore, in particular if the relevant electrochemical cell is used by further electrical consumers, there is the risk that the electrochemical cell can no longer be sufficiently charged during times when the motor vehicle engine is running. In order to further ensure starting capability of the motor vehicle engine, the electric auxiliary heater can not be operated when the motor vehicle engine is at rest when the state of charge of the electrochemical cell is low.

Accordingly, there is the object of the present invention is to provide a motor vehicle heater for to provide convective heating of a vehicle interior, which is operable at a stationary motor vehicle engine, which is a long Lifespan and is reliable in operation.

The Task is by a motor vehicle heater according to claim 1 and by a method for upgrading a motor vehicle heater solved according to claim 15. advantageous Further developments of the invention are in the subclaims specified.

According to the present invention, a motor vehicle heater is provided for the convective heating of a vehicle interior, which has at least one electrical resistance heating element, in particular at least one PTC ceramic (positive temperature coefficient, PTC). The electrical resistance heating element is positioned or positionable in a motor vehicle such that heat can be transferred from the resistance heating element to an air stream flowing into the vehicle interior when the motor vehicle heating is used. The motor vehicle heater can also be switched on independently of an operation of an engine of the motor vehicle and has at least one rechargeable electrostatic energy store the motor vehicle heater can be supplied with electrical energy on.

The Provide at least one, rechargeable, electrostatic Energy storage for powering the motor vehicle heating is versus the use of a rechargeable, electrochemical Energy storage (accumulator) advantageous because this easy and can be charged and discharged quickly. Also, such becomes one rechargeable, electrostatic energy storage even at frequent loading and unloading cycles significantly less burdened as an accumulator, so that a longer life is achieved can be. Furthermore, the use of a rechargeable, electrostatic energy storage also in ecological terms advantageous because of the use of toxic, chemical substances, commonly used as electrolyte in accumulators can be waived.

The Automotive heating is preferably in land vehicles, such as Passenger cars, trucks, campers, buses, etc., can be used. But she can used in other motor vehicles, such as ships become. As an electrical resistance heating element is an electric Component understood that when it flows through electric current is generated, ohmic heat. In particular, that will be at least a, electrical resistance heating element by at least one PTC ceramic educated. PTC ceramics are used in automotive auxiliary heaters, by the convective heat is transferred, preferably used as electrical resistance heating elements, as these are very are reliable. In particular, have PTC ceramics when exceeded an upper limit temperature, which depends on the particular material is, a strong increase in resistance or a strong decrease in performance on. As a PTC ceramic is often a ceramic on Base of barium titanate used. For the inventive Motor vehicle heating can in particular PTC ceramic heating elements, as they have already been working in convective motor vehicle auxiliary heaters can be used.

Under a "rechargeable, electrostatic energy storage" is a capacitive energy storage of electrical energy, in particular a capacitor, understood. Under a positioning such that " in the use of the motor vehicle heater heat from the resistance heating element on a, flowing into the vehicle interior airflow transferable is "in particular an integral positioning of the Resistance heating element within the motor vehicle understood in such a way that it is from one, flowing into the motor vehicle interior Air flow is flowed around. Such an integral positioning in particular includes a positioning in a channel of the vehicle ventilation system and / or Vehicle heating system, by the use of the vehicle ventilation system and / or vehicle heating system, an air flow in the vehicle interior is encouraged. An integrally formed in the vehicle Blower for generating such an air flow can thereby both for ventilation and for the present vehicle heater can be used.

According to one advantageous development, the at least one, rechargeable, electrostatic energy storage by at least one double-layer capacitor educated. Double-layer capacitors, sometimes also called supercapacitors, Ultracapacitors and / or electrochemical double-layer capacitors (EDLC: electrochemical double layer capacitors), are capacitors with one over conventional ones Capacitors significantly higher energy density and with a compared to accumulators significantly higher power density. In the power density is compared to the energy density takes into account how fast the electrical energy can be provided by the respective power source. The mentioned Properties are in double layer capacitors among others achieved in that they are constructed in a porous structure, the size of the pores or cavities is very high is small. Depending on the material and construction, the size the pores or cavities go into the nanometer range. In this porous structure is an "electric Double layer "formed, with the thickness of the dielectric is extremely thin. In combination with the big one Surface provided by the porous structure is, is compared to conventional capacitors a significantly higher capacity can be achieved. Known Double-layer capacitors are made of, among other things, structures Carbon nanotubes (carbon nanotubes), made of electrical conductive polymers, carbon aerogels, etc., constructed.

The use of at least one double-layer capacitor as rechargeable energy storage (storage of electrical energy) has the advantage, among other things, that it can be charged and discharged quickly. During discharge, a high power density can accordingly be provided by the double-layer capacitor. A fast charging compared to rechargeable batteries makes it possible to use short-term electrical power for charging the double-layer capacitor. This is attractive in particular with regard to the use of the energy released during the deceleration of a motor vehicle. The application of the present invention is thereby advantageous in particular in hybrid vehicles, which have an electric motor and an internal combustion engine. Partially becomes in such hybrid vehicles and the energy released during braking of a motor vehicle converted into electrical energy. The electrical energy provided in such hybrid vehicles (during braking, possibly also by a fuel cell, solar cell, etc.) can be used, for example, for charging the double-layer capacitor at times when it is not required by further consumers of the motor vehicle. Furthermore, double-layer capacitors are characterized by a low internal resistance and by a very simple charging process. Double-layer capacitors are also designed for a variety of charging cycles. These properties are also advantageous for use in a motor vehicle heater. From an ecological point of view, double-layer capacitors are also advantageous, since no use of highly reactive chemical electrolytes, as used in accumulators, is required.

According to one advantageous development is the at least one, rechargeable, electrostatic energy storage separately from a vehicle battery of the motor vehicle trained. As a vehicle battery is doing a provided in the vehicle battery referred to under other electrical energy for the starting process of a Motor vehicle, in particular an internal combustion engine of the motor vehicle, provides. By the separate providence can be particularly at an operation of the motor vehicle heater when the vehicle engine is stationary a load of the vehicle battery can be prevented. This will the starting ability of the motor vehicle engine through the operation the motor vehicle heating is not adversely affected. Furthermore, the rechargeable, electrostatic energy storage terms the charging procedure for the specific conditions of use and in terms of providing the electrical power, in particular in terms of power requirements, especially for motor vehicle heating be interpreted.

Further But it is also possible to have a rechargeable, electrostatic Energy storage, especially in combination with an accumulator, as Insert vehicle battery. This can for example in motor vehicles be advantageous with hybrid drive. In this case, alternatively to the above mentioned training also this rechargeable, electrostatic energy storage, which among other things for the starting process of the relevant motor vehicle is used, be used for the motor vehicle heating. In this Case is preferably a state of charge of the rechargeable, electrostatic Energy storage and / or the accumulator, if such provided is, monitored to ensure that through the energy storage and / or by the accumulator sufficient electrical energy for a startup of the motor vehicle can be provided.

According to one advantageous development is / are a control unit and / or a circuit is provided which is / are arranged such that the motor vehicle heater with the engine off the motor vehicle through the rechargeable, electrostatic energy storage with electrical energy is supplied. This will ensure that the motor vehicle heating even when the motor vehicle engine is stationary is operable. According to an advantageous development is / are a control unit and / or a circuit provided, which is / are set up such that the motor vehicle heater with the engine running of the motor vehicle by a vehicle battery and / or a generator of the motor vehicle with electrical energy is available. This will make the rechargeable, electrostatic Energy storage during the times in which in the motor vehicle sufficient electrical energy is available, not unnecessary loaded.

Provided in the present description and / or in the claims Control tasks in relation to the motor vehicle heating mentioned These can be of a separate, exclusive for the motor vehicle heating provided control unit and / or from a control unit provided in the motor vehicle, in addition to control functions in relation to the motor vehicle heating also other control functions, such as in relation on further heaters (window heating, surface heating, etc.), electronic components of the motor vehicle, etc., be executed. Accordingly, with "control unit" too each referred to these alternatives. The above mentioned Generator is preferably powered by the motor vehicle engine, in particular, it can be formed by an alternator. alternative or in addition, the generator can also when braking a Motor vehicle driven.

According to an advantageous development, a receiver is provided, via which the motor vehicle heating wirelessly from a corresponding remote control (or a corre sponding transmitter) can be activated or switched on. The receiver can be assigned exclusively to the motor vehicle heater, but it can also be used for other heaters (window heating, surface heating, etc.), electronic components of the motor vehicle, etc., which can be activated and / or controlled via wireless communication are, be assigned. In addition to the function as transmitter of a corresponding switch-on signal, the remote control can also perform additional functions. In particular, as a remote control, a cell phone or a PDA (staff Digital assistant; German: Personal Digital Assistant). In a corresponding manner, the motor vehicle heating can also be switched off via this wireless connection. In addition, it can also be provided that the motor vehicle heater is manually switched on and off via a switch, such as a push button, and / or automatically depending on an outside temperature and / or an internal temperature.

As transmission technology between the remote control or the transmitter and the receiver can Any suitable, wireless transmission technology used become. In particular, the wireless communication between receivers and remote control via radio, GSM (Global System for Mobile Communications), and / or infrared.

According to one advantageous development, the motor vehicle heating a Timer, adjustable at the switch-on of the motor vehicle heating are and about which the motor vehicle heater to the set Switch-on times independent of operation of the engine of the motor vehicle is switched on. This can be a driver set the desired switch-on times in advance. Preferably can also use the timer off times and / or a maximum duty cycle can be set.

According to one advantageous development is the rechargeable, electrostatic Energy storage designed as a replacement part. In this case can the electrostatic energy store whenever it is empty, expanded and by a charged, electrostatic energy storage be replaced. Charging the electrostatic energy storage For example, by connecting the same to a power outlet (if necessary via a corresponding power supply). Preferably, the at least one electrostatic energy store thereby by insertion or plugging (in the motor vehicle heating or in a compartment provided in the motor vehicle) into an operating position (in which the electrical contacts are connected) brought. Thereby is an exchange or change of elektrostati's energy storage fast and easy to carry out. For example, in the automotive interior in the field of fittings, in particular below the glove compartment, a corresponding compartment for be provided the electrostatic energy storage.

According to one advantageous development is the rechargeable, electrostatic Energy storage on an alternator of the motor vehicle, on a Vehicle battery of the motor vehicle and / or at least one Solar cell of the motor vehicle connected or connectable and is rechargeable over these. The electrostatic energy storage can in each case directly or via other electrical components be connected to these power sources. By connecting to an alternator (or to another, provided in the motor vehicle Generator), the electrostatic energy storage on easy Way while driving over the alternator (or generally via a generator) are charged. A solar cell can, for example, on a roof of the motor vehicle be arranged and thus in an environmentally friendly way to supply the motor vehicle heater can be used with electrical power. The Solar cell can only the motor vehicle heating be assigned or to supply other electrical consumers, which are provided on or in the motor vehicle serve.

Of the Rechargeable, electrostatic energy storage can also be connected to several of the above power sources. Of the electrostatic energy storage and the respective connections the motor vehicle heating are adjusted to such a connection (to one or more of the above power sources) and to allow a recharge.

According to one advantageous development is the rechargeable, electrostatic Energy storage via a charge controller on the alternator of the motor vehicle, the vehicle battery of the motor vehicle and / or the solar cell of the motor vehicle connected or connectable. By the charge controller (also called charging circuit) is doing controlling the charging of the electrostatic energy store, the charging method depending on the type of electrostatic energy storage can be different. Is the electrostatic energy storage over the charge controller is connected to several of the above mentioned power sources, so can be controlled by the charge controller in addition, how much electrical power the electrostatic energy storage is supplied from the individual power sources.

According to an advantageous development, the motor vehicle heater is designed such that charging of the electrostatic energy store is controlled via the charge controller as a function of a driving state of the motor vehicle. If the electrostatic energy store is connected via the charge controller, for example, to the alternator and / or to the vehicle battery, then it is preferably provided that the electrostatic energy store is charged while the engine of the motor vehicle is running (or while the motor vehicle is traveling), while at standstill of the engine of the vehicle Motor vehicle (or at standstill of the motor vehicle) no charging of the electrostatic energy storage takes place. This can prevent that the vehicle battery is excessively discharged.

According to one advantageous development is the motor vehicle heating such designed that charging the electrostatic energy storage over the charge controller depending on a state of charge of Vehicle battery of the motor vehicle is controlled. Especially then, when the electrostatic energy store over the Charge controller connected to the vehicle battery and / or the alternator is, can be ensured that the vehicle battery not over-discharged. For example can be provided that whenever the vehicle battery is only slightly charged, first the vehicle battery (at least until is charged to a predetermined minimum state of charge) and only then a charging of the electrostatic energy storage he follows.

at the above-explained control of the charging method in Dependence on a driving condition of the motor vehicle and / or in dependence on a state of charge of the vehicle battery of the motor vehicle is preferably provided that these parameters via corresponding sensors are detected. These parameters can be transmitted to a control unit, so that this controls the charge controller accordingly or corresponding information forwards these parameters to the charge controller. Furthermore, these parameters can also be obtained directly from the sensors be transmitted to the charge controller and the charge controller can automatically control the charging process accordingly carry out. With automatic control of the charging process depending on the transmitted parameters the charge controller must be designed accordingly. Preferably he has for this purpose a processor unit, such as a microprocessor, in which a corresponding control of the charging method in dependence implemented by these parameters.

According to one advantageous development, a control unit is provided by the on and off the motor vehicle heater, in particular adjusting the heating power of the motor vehicle heater, feasible is. Preferably, at least one further is connected to the control unit connected sensor, in particular an outside temperature sensor and / or an internal temperature sensor provided. The control unit is preferably arranged to turn on and off the motor vehicle heater, in particular the setting of the heating power the motor vehicle heater, depending on sensor signals, which transmit from the at least one sensor to the control unit be carried out. In this way, the heating operation the motor vehicle heater and in particular the motor vehicle heating provided heating power, individually to the prevailing conditions be adjusted. Next to or instead of the above mentioned outside and / or internal temperature can also be other sizes (via corresponding sensors) are detected, such as a state of charge of the rechargeable electrostatic energy store, etc., and the control unit may depend on these Sizes on and off the motor vehicle heater or optionally also adjusting the heating power of the motor vehicle heater carry out.

The The present invention further relates to a motor vehicle, in particular a land vehicle, such as a car or truck, with a Motor vehicle heating, as described above.

The The present invention further relates to a motor vehicle heating system with a motor vehicle heater, as described above, as well as with a surface heating and / or a window heating. Due to the surface heating is a surface at least one, arranged in the interior of the motor vehicle Component of the motor vehicle heated. The surface heating has at least one ohmic heating element integral in the respective, is formed to be heated component and the heat Non-convective transferable by thermal conduction to the respective component is on. The surface heating is independent of an operation of the engine of the motor vehicle switched on. By the window heater is at least one disc of the motor vehicle heated. The window heater has at least one electric Heating element positioned on or in a pane to be heated or is positionable on and is independent of one Operation of the motor of the motor vehicle switched on.

The use of the motor vehicle heater, by the convection air in the interior of the motor vehicle is heated, and the surface heating, is heated by the non-convective surface (s) in the motor vehicle interior, in combination has the advantage that by such a combined motor vehicle heating system with a stationary vehicle engine can be provided for a passenger pleasant preheating of the vehicle interior while low energy consumption. Even with a combination of the motor vehicle heater and the window heating system (and possibly also the surface heating), a preheating of the motor vehicle and a deicing of the windows can be achieved in an energy-saving manner, in particular when the motor vehicle engine is at rest. In both cases, it is not necessary that the motor vehicle heater is designed for such a high heat output as would be required for preheating the vehicle interior and / or deicing the windows when the vehicle engine is at rest by the vehicle heating alone. This can be a electrical resistance heating element, in particular a PTC ceramic, are used with such a heating power in the motor vehicle heating, as it is already used in motor vehicles with modern engines often for heating while driving. Furthermore, it can also be provided that the motor vehicle heater is only shorter, in particular later, than the surface heating and / or the window heating is switched on, so that in this way the energy consumption is further reduced.

By The surface heating can target surfaces be heated by components in the interior of the motor vehicle, in particular surfaces, the in use of the respective motor vehicle in direct contact standing with a passenger and / or near a passenger of the motor vehicle are arranged. The heated surface (s) is / are by a passenger directly on entering the motor vehicle felt warm, so that with low energy consumption a high Comfort is provided. As "components of the motor vehicle" are each associated with the vehicle in the present context Components, such as a vehicle seat, a steering wheel, fittings, a provided in the vehicle interior headliner, one in the vehicle interior provided side panel, a foot storage area, a shift lever, etc., viewed. As "components of the motor vehicle" are in particular non-removable accessories, such as seat cushions, floor mats, child seats, etc. understood.

In Regarding the disc heater is under a positioning of the electric heating element on or in a heated pane an arrangement understood in which the electric heating element in direct contact with the disk to be heated is. When the window heating gets heat through heat conduction and not by convection, such as by a blower, transferred to the heated disc. From such a Arrangement are in particular the formation of the electric heating element as a heating coil integrated into the pane, as a layer deposited on the pane, and / or as a heating line printed on the disc. By the window heating is opposite to a convective heating or defrosting the discs allows low energy consumption. The windscreen heater can be used in particular for heating a windscreen, a rear window, at least one side window and / or at least serve an outside mirror of the motor vehicle.

The above, explained in relation to the motor vehicle heater Further developments are, as far as technically feasible, in a corresponding manner also with the surface heating and / or the window heating feasible, with the advantages explained above be achieved. Furthermore, it is preferably provided that one or several electrical components in common for the motor vehicle heating, the surface heating and / or the window heating provided is / are. In particular, it is preferred that the motor vehicle heater as well as the surface heating and / or the window heating have a common control unit and / or via a common power supply unit, in particular the at least a, rechargeable, electrostatic energy storage with electrical energy can be supplied.

According to one advantageous development are in the motor vehicle heating system at least one sensor by which a parameter relating to the vehicle air conditioning state, in particular an internal temperature, an outside temperature and / or rainfall, can be detected and a control unit responsive to sensor signals the at least one sensor, the motor vehicle heater and the Surface heating and / or the window heating on and off switches off, in particular their heating power adjusts, provided. In this way you can target the individual, in one Motor vehicle provided heaters depending on be controlled according to the present conditions. For example can with very cold outside temperatures and moderate indoor temperatures through the energy and heating management system the window heating operated with high heat output to deice the slices. The motor vehicle heating and the surface heating, however, can be operated with lower heating power. Vice versa can at freezing temperatures but free slices, which, for example, when the motor vehicle is parked in one Garage is the case, the vehicle heating and the surface heating with high heating power and the window heating not or only with operated reduced heating power.

In the motor vehicle heating system described above, the motor vehicle heater and the surface heating and / or the window heating, in particular when the motor vehicle engine is stationary, can be supplied with electrical energy in each case by the at least one rechargeable, electrostatic energy store. Alternatively, in the motor vehicle heating system described above, another, rechargeable power source may be provided in the motor vehicle through which, in particular when the motor vehicle engine is stationary, the motor vehicle heating and the surface heating and / or the window heating with electrical energy can be supplied. In particular, such an alternative, rechargeable power source may be provided by an accumulator (such as the rechargeable, electrochemical cell). Even with the use of such an alternative, rechargeable power source can be provided by the motor vehicle heating system in an energy-saving manner, a preheating of a motor vehicle (and, where appropriate, a de-icing of the discs). At the same time, such a motor vehicle heating system is a low-cost alternative to auxiliary heaters that are operated with fossil fuels.

The The present invention further relates to a motor vehicle, in particular a land vehicle, such as a car or truck, the Automotive heating system, as described above comprises.

The The present invention further relates to a method for upgrading a motor vehicle heater, through which a vehicle interior convection heated is and the at least one electrical resistance heating element, in particular at least one PTC ceramic (PTC: positive temperature coefficient; German: positive temperature coefficient). The resistance heating element is positioned or positionable in a motor vehicle in this way, that in use of the motor vehicle heating heat from the Resistance heating element on a flowing into the vehicle interior Air flow is transferable. The motor vehicle heater is Furthermore, independent of an operation of an engine of the motor vehicle switched on. The method includes the following step: Equip the motor vehicle heater with at least one rechargeable, electrostatic energy storage, in particular with at least one Double-layer condenser, through which the motor vehicle heater with electrical energy is supplied.

By the inventive method can existing motor vehicle heaters in a simple way to the above explained, motor vehicle heating according to the invention be upgraded so that the above explained Benefits are achievable. Furthermore, the above explained again Further developments by equipping the motor vehicle heater with the each additionally required components realized become. According to an advantageous development For example, the motor vehicle heater with a control unit and / or an (electrical) circuit which is / are set up in such a way that the motor vehicle heating with the engine of the motor vehicle by the rechargeable, electrostatic energy storage with electrical Energy is supplied, equipped. Preferably, the control unit is / and / or Circuit arranged such that the motor vehicle heater at activated motor of the motor vehicle by one, in the motor vehicle provided generator, in particular of an alternator, or is powered by a vehicle battery with electrical energy.

Further Advantages and advantages of the invention result itself with reference to the following description of exemplary embodiments with reference to the attached figures. From the figures demonstrate:

1 : a schematic representation of a motor vehicle heater for explaining a first embodiment of the invention; and

2 : A schematic representation of a motor vehicle heating system for explaining a second embodiment of the invention.

In 1 is a motor vehicle heater 2 , is heated by the convection air in the interior of a motor vehicle, according to a first embodiment of the present invention shown schematically. The motor vehicle heating 2 has an electrical resistance heating element 4 , which is designed as PTC ceramic, on. The resistance heating element 4 is arranged in a (not shown) channel of a vehicle ventilation system of the vehicle. Through the channel air flow into the vehicle interior is required in the use of the vehicle ventilation system and in the use of motor vehicle heating. This is a fan 6 provided by the cold air (see arrow 8th ) on the resistance heating element 4 over and the heated air (see arrow 10 ) is conveyed into the vehicle interior.

The resistance heating element 4 and the fan 6 are over a switch 12 with a double-layer capacitor 14 connected. The desk 12 is from a control unit 16 the motor vehicle heating 2 controllable. With the switch closed 12 is the motor vehicle heater 2 turned on and in the resistance heating element 4 Heat is generated due to the flow of current. At the same time the blower 6 switched on. The motor vehicle heating 2 also has a receiver 18 with a receiving unit 20 , such as an antenna. The motor vehicle heating 2 is from a remote control 22 from, which has a corresponding transmitter, switched on or activated. In addition, it can be provided that the motor vehicle heating 2 manually via a switch (not shown), such as a key switch, via a timer (not shown) at predetermined times and / or automated by the control unit 16 depending on an outdoor temperature, an internal temperature, etc. on and off or their heating power is adjusted continuously.

The motor vehicle heating 2 is thereby unab pending of an operation of an engine of the motor vehicle switched on or activated. By pressing the remote control 22 a driver can timely before the start of the vehicle heating system 2 turn on. It is from the remote control 22 a switch-on signal to the receiver 18 the motor vehicle heating 2 transmitted. Upon receiving the turn-on signal, the control unit controls 16 the switch 12 that it will be closed. This turns the blower 6 turned on and the resistance heating element 4 generates heat, which is promoted by the generated air flow in the vehicle interior. In a similar way, can also turn off the motor vehicle heater 2 by transmitting a switch-off signal from the remote control 22 to the recipient 18 and by driving the switch 12 that this is opened, done. By switching on the motor vehicle heater 2 in advance via the remote control 22 For example, the vehicle interior may be heated in advance, and passengers are provided with the comfort of a preheated vehicle interior immediately upon arrival to the vehicle.

In the illustrated embodiment, the double-layer capacitor is 14 via a charge controller 24 on an alternator 26 of the motor vehicle in which the motor vehicle heater 2 is installed, connected. Through the charge controller 24 becomes the charge of the double-layer capacitor 14 controlled. In the present exemplary embodiment, the charging method is carried out as a function of a driving state of the motor vehicle and in dependence on a charging state of a vehicle battery (not shown) of the motor vehicle. In particular, it is provided that a charging of the double-layer capacitor 14 only when the engine of the motor vehicle is running and not when the engine is stopped. It is further provided that when the engine of the motor vehicle is first on the alternator 26 a vehicle battery of the motor vehicle is charged and only when it is full or has reached a predetermined minimum state of charge, the double-layer capacitor 14 over the charge controller 26 is loaded. The driving state of the motor vehicle and the state of charge of the vehicle battery are detected by sensors (not shown) and sent to the control unit 16 transmitted. This gives appropriate control signals to the charge controller 24 so that the charging process is carried out according to the criteria given above.

The following is with reference to 2 A second embodiment of the present invention is explained. For same elements are in 2 again used the same reference numerals. In the following, the differences compared to the first embodiment will be discussed.

In 2 is a motor vehicle heating system 28 shown. This has a motor vehicle heater 2 ' on, according to the in 1 illustrated motor vehicle heating 2 is constructed. In particular, it has a resistance heating element 4 , a switch 12 , a double-layer capacitor 14 , a control unit 16 , a receiver 18 with a receiving unit 20 and a charge controller 24 over which the double-layer capacitor 14 from an alternator 26 of the motor vehicle is chargeable on. To generate the air flow is again a fan 6 intended. Regarding the operation of the motor vehicle heater 2 ' Turn to the explanation 1 directed.

The motor vehicle heating system 28 also has a surface heating 30 and a glass heater 32 on. These are in a similar manner as with reference to 1 was explained via a remote control 22 enableable. Furthermore, the motor vehicle heating 2 ' , the surface heating 30 and the window heating 32 a common control unit 16 and a common power supply unit passing through the double-layer capacitor 14 is formed on.

The surface heating 30 has resistance wires 34 on, the integral in a component to be heated 36 are formed. In the present embodiment, the component to be heated 36 formed by a (not shown) motor vehicle seat. The through the resistance wires 34 Heatable surface is in the embodiment, a seat of the vehicle seat. The resistance wires 34 are over a switch 38 with the double-layer capacitor 14 connected so that they closed switch 38 from the double-layer capacitor 14 be supplied with electrical energy. The desk 38 is from the control unit 16 controllable.

The window heating 32 has resistance wires 40 on, the integral in a heated pane 42 , such as a rear window of the motor vehicle, are formed. In the present embodiment, the resistance wires 40 in the disk 42 cast. The resistance wires 40 are over a switch 44 with the double-layer capacitor 14 connected. The desk 44 is in turn from the control unit 16 controllable.

Through the combined use of motor vehicle heating 2 ' and the surface heating 30 is a pleasant for a passenger preheating of the vehicle interior at the same time low energy consumption feasible. In particular, the heating power of PTC ceramics, which are currently used in motor vehicles for heating while driving, sufficient to also resistance 4 for the present motor vehicle heating 2 ' to be used. Preferably, one and the same resistance heating element (in particular a PTC ceramic) for operation of the motor vehicle heater 2 ' used both when the vehicle engine is stationary and for heating while driving. Furthermore, through the window heating 32 Already before starting the motor vehicle engine defrosting the discs (or freeing them of moisture) allows.

About the control unit 16 and the corresponding switches 12 . 38 and 44 can the motor vehicle heater 2 ' , the surface heating 30 and the window heating 32 depending on requirements, in particular as a function of detected parameters relating to the vehicle air conditioning state, such as depending on an internal temperature, an outside temperature and / or rain, are individually controlled. Preferably, the control unit 16 set up such that when the vehicle engine is stationary for preheating the vehicle interior, the motor vehicle heater 2 ' only shorter, especially later, than the surface heating 30 and the window heating 32 is turned on, so that energy-saving operation of the motor vehicle heating system 28 is realized.

The The present invention is not limited to those shown in the figures Embodiments limited. In addition to the above Functions described in the motor vehicle heater or in the motor vehicle heating system, in particular in a control unit same, even more functions to be implemented. For example can have more sizes over appropriate Sensors are detected and transmitted to the control unit. In Depending on this, the control unit may be additional a switching on and off the motor vehicle heater (or the Surface heating and / or window heating) and / or set a desired heating power (for example, continuously).

Further can the double-layer capacitor (or in general a rechargeable, electrostatic energy storage) for other electrical consumers be used of the motor vehicle. Furthermore, the surface heating also for heating surfaces of other components serve. For this purpose, it is preferably provided that more Ohmic heating elements formed integrally in the respective components are and that their heat output through appropriate switches independently controllable by a control unit is. In the same way can also the window heating for heating further discs, such as an exterior mirror, a front or side window, etc., serve. Again, then preferably provided that further electrical heating elements on or are positioned in the respective discs and that their heating power over corresponding switch from a control unit independent is controllable from each other.

QUOTES INCLUDE IN THE DESCRIPTION

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Cited patent literature

• - DE 102006049148 A1 [0004, 0005]

Claims (15)

Motor vehicle heater for convective heating of a vehicle interior, comprising at least one electrical resistance heating element ( 4 ), in particular at least one PTC ceramic (PTC: English: positive temperature coefficient) (German: positive temperature coefficient) ( 4 ) which is positioned or positionable in a motor vehicle such that in use of the motor vehicle heater ( 2 ; 2 ' ) Heat from the resistance heating element ( 4 ) is transferable to a, flowing into the vehicle interior airflow, wherein the motor vehicle heater ( 2 ; 2 ' ) is switched on independently of operation of an engine of the motor vehicle, characterized by at least one, rechargeable, electrostatic energy storage ( 14 ), by which the motor vehicle heating ( 2 ; 2 ' ) can be supplied with electrical energy. Motor vehicle heater according to claim 1, characterized in that the at least one, rechargeable, electrostatic energy storage ( 14 ) by at least one double-layer capacitor ( 14 ) is formed. Motor vehicle heater according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the at least one, rechargeable, electrostatic energy storage ( 14 ) is formed separately from a vehicle battery of the motor vehicle. Motor vehicle heating according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by a control unit ( 16 ) and / or a circuit which is / are set up such that the motor vehicle heater ( 2 ; 2 ' ) with the engine off the motor vehicle by the rechargeable, electrostatic energy storage ( 14 ) can be supplied with electrical energy. Motor vehicle heating according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by a control unit ( 16 ) and / or a circuit which is / are set up such that the motor vehicle heater ( 2 ; 2 ' ) with the engine of the motor vehicle by a vehicle battery and / or a generator ( 26 ) of the motor vehicle can be supplied with electrical energy. Motor vehicle heating according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by a receiver ( 18 ), over which the motor vehicle heating ( 2 ; 2 ' ) wirelessly from a corresponding remote control ( 22 ) is activated. Motor vehicle heater according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the rechargeable, electrostatic energy storage ( 14 ) is designed as a replacement part, which can be brought in particular by insertion or insertion in an operating position. Motor vehicle heater according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the rechargeable, electrostatic energy storage ( 14 ) on an alternator ( 26 ) of the motor vehicle, connected to a vehicle battery of the motor vehicle and / or at least one solar cell of the motor vehicle or is connectable and can be charged via this. Motor vehicle heater according to claim 8, characterized in that the rechargeable, electrostatic energy storage ( 14 ) via a charge controller ( 24 ) on the alternator ( 26 ) of the motor vehicle, the vehicle battery of the motor vehicle and / or the solar cell of the motor vehicle is connected or connectable. Motor vehicle heating according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by a control unit ( 16 ), by which switching on and off the motor vehicle heating ( 2 ; 2 ' ), in particular adjusting the heating power of the motor vehicle heating ( 2 ; 2 ' ), and by at least one, with the control unit ( 16 ), in particular an outside temperature sensor and / or an inside temperature sensor, wherein the control unit ( 16 ) switching on and off the motor vehicle heating ( 2 ; 2 ' ), in particular the setting of the heating power of the motor vehicle heating ( 2 ; 2 ' ), in response to sensor signals from the at least one sensor to the control unit ( 16 ). Motor vehicle heating system, comprising a motor vehicle heating system ( 2 ; 2 ' ) according to one of the preceding claims and a surface heating ( 30 ), by which a surface of at least one, arranged in the interior of the motor vehicle component ( 36 ) of the motor vehicle is heated and the at least one ohmic heating element ( 34 ) integrally formed in the respective component to be heated ( 36 ) is formed and from the heat non-convective by heat conduction to the respective component ( 36 ), the surface heating ( 30 ) is switched on independently of an operation of the motor of the motor vehicle, and / or a window heating ( 32 ) through which at least one disc ( 42 ) of the motor vehicle is heated, the at least one electric heating element ( 40 ), on or in a pane to be heated ( 42 ) is positioned or positionable, and which is switched on independently of an operation of the motor of the motor vehicle. Motor vehicle heating system according to claim 11, characterized in that the surface heating ( 30 ) and / or the window heating ( 32 ) by the at least one, rechargeable, electrostatic energy storage ( 14 ) is / are supplied with electrical energy. Motor vehicle heating system according to claim 11 or 12, characterized by at least one sensor, by which a parameter with respect to the vehicle air conditioning state, in particular an internal temperature, an outside temperature and / or rainfall, can be detected and a control unit ( 16 ), which in dependence on sensor signals of the at least one sensor, the motor vehicle heating ( 2 ; 2 ' ) as well as the surface heating ( 30 ) and / or the window heating ( 32 ) turns on and off, in particular their heating power adjusts. Motor vehicle, characterized by a motor vehicle heater ( 2 ; 2 ' ) according to one of claims 1 to 10 and / or by a motor vehicle heating system ( 28 ) according to any one of claims 11 to 13. Method for upgrading a motor vehicle heating, through which a vehicle interior is convectively heated and the at least one electrical resistance heating element, in particular at least one PTC ceramic (PTC: positive temperature coefficient; German: positive temperature coefficient), wherein the resistance heating element is positioned or positionable in a motor vehicle, that in use of the motor vehicle heating heat from the Resistance heating element on a flowing into the vehicle interior Airflow is transferable, and wherein the motor vehicle heater independent of operation of an engine of the motor vehicle can be switched on, characterized by the following step: equip the motor vehicle heater with at least one rechargeable, electrostatic energy store, in particular with at least one double-layer capacitor, by supplying the motor vehicle heater with electrical energy is.