METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR THE MELTING OF SNOW AND ICE FROM VEHICLE EXTERIORS

Abstract

An apparatus and method for melting snow and/or ice on a vehicle comprises a precipitation sensor, a surface temperature sensor, an ambient temperature sensor, a heater, and a programmable controller. The programmable controller comprises a memory unit and a processor to store and execute a cut-off surface temperature Tc, and program modules, respectively. A heater control module is configured to deactivate the heater based on the surface temperature being greater than the cut-off surface temperature. The heater could be an electric heater and a hydronic heater. The electric heater is electrically coupled to at least any one of, an alternator, an onboard power system, and a remote power source, via a relay. Further, the heater control module is configured to activate the heater based on an ambient temperature being lower than freezing point of water and precipitation being present outside the vehicle, thereby melting snow and/or ice on the vehicle.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is directed to a method and apparatus for the melting of snow and ice from vehicle exteriors, and, more particularly, to a method and apparatus for melting snow or ice from an exterior of a vehicle, and preventing the accumulation thereon, by means of heating elements secured within a vehicle's exterior.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

In cold weather climes, the accumulation of snow and/or ice on the exterior of vehicles can be problematic in many different contexts. Unchecked, such accumulation can slow or even bring to a halt transportation of people and cargo, perhaps at its worst costing lives and/or the loss of significant sums of money.

Indeed, vehicles are often designed with aerodynamic and safety engineering considerations in mind. Companies and their engineers spend significant resources on the aerodynamic and safety design of, by way of example, automobiles and aircraft. Even the smallest amount of snow or ice buildup on the exteriors of such transport vehicles can negatively impact such aerodynamic and safety designs and decrease operability.

Currently the airline industry spends millions of dollars on de-icing compounds to de-ice aircraft before take-off. Application of such needs to be closely monitored and, in case of delays, even reapplied.

Automobile owners, having no such system, are often forced to manually remove snow and ice from their automobile exteriors. Needless to say, such removal is not easy or comfortable. Due to changes in the laws of many cold weather clime States, such snow/ice removal is now mandatory. Drivers who fail to remove snow/ice may be cited/ticketed for failing to remove such snow/ice for creating unsafe driving conditions.

While many vehicles are equipped with automatic snow/ice removal systems for their windows, no such apparatus or methodology currently exists for the vehicle exteriors. Thus, as can be seen, there is a need which as heretofore not been met or resolved.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Accordingly, the present invention is directed to providing a method and apparatus for the prevention of the accumulation of snow and ice on a vehicle exterior, and/or which melts accumulated snow and ice from the top of a vehicle, by means of heating elements secured within the vehicle's top. The heating elements consist of electric radiant heating cables or hydronic radiant heating tubes. In one embodiment, the vehicle is at least any one of, but not limited to, cars, trucks, vans, buses, minivans, Sports Utility Vehicles (SUV's), cross-over vehicles, trailer trucks, electric vehicles (EVs), hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs), aircrafts, trains, and rail vehicles.

As taught by the present invention, the electric heat system can be optioned to function using a remote power source, the vehicle power source, or both. Additionally, as taught by the present invention, the hydronic heat system utilizes hot fluid (water/glycol solution) from the radiator or engine block as its heating medium.

The present invention allows for automatic snow and ice melting using environmental feedback from temperature and precipitation sensors. These sensors may be integral to the vehicle's environmental/engine management systems and/or separate sensors installed as part of the snowmelt system.

In an embodiment of the present invention, an apparatus for melting snow and/or ice on a vehicle comprises a precipitation sensor, a surface temperature sensor, an ambient temperature sensor, a heater, and a programmable controller. The programmable controller comprises a memory unit to store a cut off surface temperature Tc, and a set of program modules. The programmable controller further comprises a processor to execute the set of program modules. The set of program modules comprises an input module and a heater control module. The input module, executed by the processor, is configured to receive information regarding an ambient temperature Ta outside the vehicle via the ambient temperature sensor. Further, the input module, executed by the processor, is configured to receive information regarding one of presence and absence of precipitation outside the vehicle, via the precipitation sensor. Furthermore, the input module, executed by the processor, is configured to receive information regarding a surface temperature Ts on an exterior portion of the vehicle via the surface temperature sensor. The heater control module, executed by the processor, is configured to deactivate the heater based on the surface temperature Ts being greater than the cut off surface temperature Tc. Further, heater control module is configured to activate the heater based on the ambient temperature Ta being lower than freezing point of water and precipitation being present outside the vehicle, thereby melting snow and/or ice on the vehicle because of heat generated by the heater upon activation.

In an embodiment of the present invention, the heater is at least one of an electric heater and a hydronic heater. In one embodiment, the electric heater is electrically coupled to at least one of the group consisting of, an alternator, an onboard power system, and one or more remote electric power sources, via a relay. In one embodiment, the onboard power system includes at least any one of, but not limited to, onboard batteries and supercapacitors. The electric heater comprises a plurality of heating cables disposed on an exterior portion of the vehicle, electrically coupled to an electric power source include, but not limited to, an alternator, an onboard power system, and one or more remote electric power sources, via a relay or multiple relays, the plurality of heating cables configured to receive electric power from the electric power source include, but not limited to, an alternator and an onboard power system, and heat the exterior portion of the vehicle, melting snow and/or ice on the vehicle. Further, the hydronic heater comprises a plurality of heating pipes disposed on the exterior portion of the vehicle, coupled to a radiator of the vehicle via an electric pump, and wherein the hydronic heater is configured to receive at least one of heated engine coolant or water from the radiator or engine block jacket, and circulate the heated engine coolant or water, thereby transferring heat to the exterior portion of the vehicle.

In an embodiment of the present invention, a method of melting snow and/or ice on a vehicle, the apparatus comprises storing in a memory unit, a cut off surface temperature, and a set of program modules. Further, the method comprises receiving, by a processor executing an input module, information regarding an ambient temperature outside the vehicle, from an ambient temperature sensor. Further, the method comprises receiving, by the processor executing the input module, information regarding one of presence and absence of precipitation outside the vehicle, from the precipitation sensor. Further, the method comprises receiving, by the processor executing the input module, information regarding a surface temperature on an exterior portion of the vehicle, from the surface temperature sensor. Further, the method comprises deactivating, by the processor executing a heater control module, the heater based on the surface temperature being greater than the cut off surface temperature. Further, the method comprises deactivating, by the processor executing a heater control module, based on certain safeties being triggered. Further, the method comprises activating the heater, by the processor executing the heater control module, based on the ambient temperature being lower than a freezing point of water, and precipitation outside the vehicle being present, thereby melting snow and/or ice on the vehicle.

In an embodiment of the present invention, the truck bed assembly comprises a plurality of heating elements that are embedded and/or secured within the truck bed assembly. The truck bed assembly further comprises a truck bed liner. The plurality of heating elements are securely embedded within the truck bed liner. The truck bed assembly further comprises an insulating material. The insulating material is provided between the truck bed liner and a truck bed. Further, the heating elements has one or more terminals. The terminals of the heating elements are connected to an electric power source, thereby heating the plurality of heating elements. The heat generated by the heating elements conductively transfers to the exterior portion of the vehicle via the thermally conductive layer/truck bed liner, thereby melting the snow from the exterior portion of the vehicle roof and/or truck bed liner.

In an embodiment of the present invention, the truck bed assembly comprises a truck bed liner assembled with a plurality of heating elements. The truck bed assembly further comprises a separate assembly for the heating elements. The heating elements are assembled in the separate assembly below the truck bed liner. The truck bed further comprises an insulating material. The insulating material is provided between the truck bed and the separate assembly of the heating elements. Further, the heating elements has one or more terminals. The terminals of the heating elements are connected to an electric power source, thereby heating the plurality of heating elements. The heating elements conductively transfers the heat to the exterior portion of the vehicle via the thermally conductive layer/truck bed liner, thereby melting the snow from the exterior portion of the vehicle roof and/or truck bed liner.

The present invention, including its features and advantages, will become more apparent from the following detailed description with reference to the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

The foregoing summary, as well as the following detailed description of the invention, is better understood when read in conjunction with the appended drawings. For the purpose of illustrating the invention, exemplary constructions of the invention are shown in the drawings. However, the invention is not limited to the specific methods and structures disclosed herein. The description of a method step or a structure referenced by a numeral in a drawing is applicable to the description of that method step or structure shown by that same numeral in any subsequent drawing herein.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an apparatus for melting of snow and/or ice from vehicles, in accordance with various embodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a block diagram of an electric heater, in accordance with various embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 3 is an exemplary illustration of arrangement of a plurality of heating cables in the apparatus for melting of snow and/or ice from vehicles, in accordance with various embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 4 is an exemplary illustration of a cross-section of the construction of the electric radiant heating cables and surrounding vehicle within which such heating element resides, in accordance with various embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 5 is a block diagram of a hydronic heater, in accordance with various embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 6 is an exemplary illustration of implementation of a hydronic heater based apparatus for melting of snow and/or ice from vehicles, in accordance with various embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 7 is an exemplary illustration of a cross-section of the construction of the hydronic radiant heating tubes and surrounding vehicle within which such heating element resides, in accordance with various embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 8 is flow chart of a method of melting of snow and/or ice from vehicle exteriors, according to yet another embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 9 is an exemplary illustration of a top view of a truck bed assembly within which such heating elements reside, in accordance with various embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 10 is an exemplary illustration of a sectional view of the truck bed assembly within which such heating elements reside, in accordance with various embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 11 is an exemplary illustration of a top view of a truck bed assembly with separately assembled heating elements, in accordance with various embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 12 is an exemplary illustration of a sectional view of the truck bed assembly with separately assembled heating elements, in accordance with various embodiments of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

A description of embodiments of the present invention will now be given with reference to the Figures. It is expected that the present invention may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from its spirit or essential characteristics. The described embodiments are to be considered in all respects only as illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of the invention is, therefore, indicated by the appended claims rather than by the foregoing description. All changes that come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are to be embraced within their scope.

FIGS. 1 through 12 illustrate a method and apparatus for a melting snow and/or ice, or preventing the build-up of such snow and/or ice, from the exterior of a vehicle by means of heating elements secured within the vehicle's exterior. It is to be understood, of course, that vehicles can include passenger vehicles (e.g., cars, trucks, vans, buses, minivans, Sports Utility Vehicles (SUV's), cross-over vehicles, electric vehicles (EVs), hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs), and aircrafts etc.), cargo vehicles (e.g., trucks, vans, box trucks, etc.), cargo trailers (i.e. semi-trailers), trains, or any other mode of transportation within which people or cargo can be transported and/or for which accumulation of snow and/or ice is a detriment to such transportation.

It is expected that the present invention may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from its spirit or essential characteristics. The described embodiments are to be considered in all respects only as illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of the invention is, therefore, indicated by the appended claims rather than by the foregoing description. All changes that come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are to be embraced within their scope. A description of embodiments of the present invention will now be given with reference to the Figures.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an apparatus 100 for the melting of snow and/or ice from the exterior of vehicles in accordance with various embodiments of the invention. The apparatus 100 comprises a body control module 105, a programmable controller 110, and a heater 115.

The body control module 105 is an integral component of the vehicle, and comprises a precipitation sensor 120, a surface temperature sensor 125, and an ambient temperature sensor 130. In one example, the precipitation sensor 120 is an optical sensor. In another example, the precipitation sensor 120 is a TRW-Automotive model 7803 optical sensing system. In another example, the surface temperature sensor 125 is at least one of a thermistor and a thermocouple. In one example, the surface temperature 125 is a QTI model QT06024A sensor. In yet another example, the ambient temperature sensor 130 is a QTI model QT06005 sensor.

Further, the apparatus comprises a programmable controller 110. The programmable controller 110 is configured to activate and deactivate the heater 115. The programmable controller 110 comprises a memory unit 140 to store a cut off surface temperature Tc, and a set of program modules. The programmable controller 110 further comprises a processor 135 to execute the set of program modules. The set of program modules comprises an input module 145 and a heater control module 150. The input module 145, executed by the processor 135, is configured to receive information regarding an ambient temperature Ta outside the vehicle via the ambient temperature sensor 130. Further, the input module 145, executed by the processor 135, is configured to receive information regarding one of presence and absence of precipitation outside the vehicle, via the precipitation sensor 120. Furthermore, the input module 145, executed by the processor 135, is configured to receive information regarding a surface temperature Ts on an exterior portion of the vehicle via the surface temperature sensor 125. The heater control module 150, executed by the processor, is configured to deactivate the heater 115 based on the surface temperature Ts being greater than the cut off surface temperature Tc. Further, the heater control module, executed by the processor, is configured to deactivate the heater based on certain safeties being triggered. Further, heater control module 150 is configured to activate the heater 115 based on the ambient temperature Ta being lower than freezing point of water and precipitation being present outside the vehicle, thereby melting snow and/or ice on the vehicle. The snow and/or ice on a vehicle melts because of heat generated by the heater 115 upon activation.

The heater 115 is at least one of an electric heater and a hydronic heater. The electric heater comprises a plurality of heating cables (not shown) disposed on an exterior portion of the vehicle, electrically coupled to an electric power source, but not limited to, an alternator or an onboard power system 220 (shown in FIG. 2) via a relay(s) 210 (shown in FIG. 2). The electric heater is configured to receive electric power from the electric power source, and heat the exterior portion of the vehicle, melting snow and/or ice on the vehicle. A block diagram of an electric heater is exemplarily illustrated in FIG. 2.

Referring now to FIG. 2, a programmable controller 205 controls a plurality of relays 210 by sending control signals. The plurality of relays 210 connect a plurality of heating cables 215 with one of, but not limited to, an alternator or an onboard power system 220 in a vehicle, for example, an electric vehicle or an aircraft and a remote power source 225. The remote power source 225 is at least one of an electric generator, and a domestic electric power supply. In one embodiment, the onboard power system 220 comprises a plurality of power sources include, but not limited to, onboard batteries and supercapacitors. In one embodiment, the onboard batteries are could be, but not limited to, lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries, nickel-metal hydride Ni—MH batteries, nickel cadmium (Ni—Cd) batteries, nickel-iron batteries, and fuel cells. In an exemplary embodiment, electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) use onboard power systems 220, for example, onboard batteries, within safe temperature and voltage ranges in order to operate safely and efficiently. The electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) include, but not limited to, road vehicles, rail vehicles, and aircrafts.

As mentioned earlier, the programmable controller 205 receives information regarding a surface temperature Ts, an ambient temperature Ta and precipitation from a body control module 230 in the vehicle. If the ambient temperature Ta is lower than 32 degree Fahrenheit (freezing point of water), and precipitation is present, then the programmable controller 205 instructs the plurality of relays 210 to route electrical power from any one of, but not limited to, the alternator or the onboard power system 220 and the remote power source 225 into the plurality of heating cables 215, thereby activating the plurality of heating cables 215. If the surface temperature Ts is greater than a cut off surface temperature Tc, then the programmable controller 205 instructs the plurality of relays 210 to disconnect the plurality of heating cables 215 from both of the alternator or the onboard power system 220 and the remote power source 225, thereby deactivating the plurality of heating cables 215. Further, when certain safeties are triggered the controller instructs the plurality of relays to disconnect the plurality of heating cables from, the alternator or the onboard power system 220, and the remote power source(s) 225, thereby deactivating the plurality of heating cables. In one example, a user is enabled to select any one of, but not limited to, the alternator or the onboard power system 220 and the remote power source 225 to supply electric power to the plurality of heating cables 215 via a power selector 235. Depending on at least one input provided to the power selector 235 by the user, the plurality of relays 210 route electrical power from any one of, but not limited to, the alternator or the onboard power system 220 and the remote power source 225 into the plurality of heating cables 215. An exemplary illustration of arrangement of the plurality of heating cables 215 in the vehicle is given in FIG. 3.

Referring now to FIG. 3, a plurality of heating cables 305 are arranged on roof of a car 300. The plurality of heating cables 305 receives electric power from a plurality of relays 310 electrically coupled to an electric power source (not shown). An exemplary illustration of a heating cable among the plurality of heating cables 305, disposed on exterior of the vehicle is shown in FIG. 4.

Referring now to FIG. 4, a heating cable 410 is secured directly below a roof 405 of a vehicle in a manner to maximize heat transfer between the heating cables 410 and the roof 405. The heating cable 410 is secured in place with a thermally conductive fastening layer 415. Further, the heating cable 410 is separated from other heating cables by a thermally conductive filler layer 425. The thermally conductive fastening layer 410 comprises at least one of thermally conductive clips and/or wireways pre-formed with the roof 405, thermally conductive clips and/or wireways (as noted above) affixed to the roof 405 by means welding or thermally conductive adhesives, and pre-wired, thermally conductive polymer (or other material) substrate assembly in which the heating cable 410 is embedded, said assembly then being secured to underside of the roof 405 by means of screws, bolts or clips with receivers formed in the roof 405. Additionally, to control heat distribution towards exterior of the roof 405), a layer of insulating material 430 is installed to cover a passenger compartment or cargo bay side of the vehicle. The layer of insulating material 430 minimizes heat transfer into the passenger compartment or the cargo bay

In one example, the heating cable 410 is sandwiched between underside of the roof 405 and an inner roof 435. Voids between the roof 405 and the inner roof 435 are filled with the thermally conductive filler layer 425 to promote heat distribution. The layer of insulating material 430 is installed to cover the passenger or cargo bay side of the vehicle.

Referring back to FIG. 3 and by way of further example, the plurality of heating cables 305 is connected to the plurality of relays 310 via a plurality of pillars (not referenced with numerals), which support the roof structure from the body of the vehicle. The plurality of pillars are utilized as pathways to route necessary wiring between the plurality of heating cables 305 and the plurality of relays 310. For cargo vehicles, wiring between the plurality of heating cables 305 and the plurality of relays 310, are routed in protective wireways mounted inside or outside the cargo vehicles.

Referring back to FIG. 1, in one example, the heater 115 is a hydronic heater. The hydronic heater comprises a plurality of heating pipes. A block diagram of a hydronic heater is exemplarily illustrated in FIG. 5.

Referring now to FIG. 5, a programmable controller 505 controls a pump 510 by sending control signals. The pump 510 connects a plurality of heating pipes 515 with a radiator 520 in a vehicle. The radiator 520 contains heated engine coolant. As mentioned earlier, the programmable controller 505 receives information regarding a surface temperature Ts, an ambient temperature Ta and precipitation from a body control module 525 in the vehicle. If the ambient temperature Ta is lower than 32 degree Fahrenheit (freezing point of water), and precipitation is present, then the programmable controller 505 instructs the pump 510 to pump one of the heated water and heated coolant liquid from the radiator 520 into the plurality of heating pipes 515, thereby heating the plurality of heating pipes 515. If the surface temperature Ts is greater than a cut off surface temperature Tc, then the programmable controller 505 instructs the pump 510 to stop pumping one of the heated water and the heated coolant liquid into the plurality of heating pipes 515 from the radiator 520. The pump 510 and the plurality of heating pipes 515 form the hydronic heater. The hydronic heater is configured to receive heated engine coolant from the radiator or engine block jacket, and circulate the heated engine coolant, thereby transferring heat to the exterior portion of the vehicle. An exemplary illustration of arrangement of the plurality of heating pipes 515 in the vehicle is given in FIG. 6.

Referring now to FIG. 6, a plurality of heating pipes 605 are arranged on roof of a car 600. The plurality of heating pipes 605 receives heated water or heated coolant liquid from a pump 610. An exemplary illustration of a heating pipe among the plurality of heating pipes 605, disposed on exterior of the vehicle is shown in FIG. 7.

Referring now to FIG. 7, a heating pipe 710 is secured directly below a roof 705 of a vehicle in a manner to maximize heat transfer between the heating pipes 710 and the roof 705. The heating pipe 710 is secured in place with a thermally conductive fastening layer 715. Further, the heating pipe 710 is separated from other heating pipes by a thermally conductive filler layer 725. The thermally conductive fastening layer 710 comprises of thermally conductive clips pre-formed with the roof 705, thermally conductive clips (as noted above) affixed to the roof 705 by means of welding or thermally conductive adhesives, thermally conductive polymer (or other material) substrate assembly in which the heating pipe 710 is embedded, said assembly then being secured to underside of the roof 705 by means of screws, bolts or clips with receivers formed in the roof 705. Additionally, to control heat distribution towards exterior of the roof 705), a layer of insulating material 730 is installed to cover a passenger compartment or cargo bay side of the vehicle. The layer of insulating material 730 minimizes heat transfer into the passenger compartment or the cargo bay.

In one example, the heating pipe 710 is sandwiched between underside of the roof 705 and an inner roof 735. Voids between the roof 705 and the inner roof 735 are filled with the thermally conductive filler layer 725 to promote heat distribution. The layer of insulating material 730 is installed to cover the passenger or cargo bay side of the vehicle.

Referring back to FIG. 6 and by way of further example, the plurality of heating pipes 605 is connected to the pump 610 via a plurality of pillars (not referenced with numerals), which support the roof structure from the body of the vehicle. The plurality of pillars are utilized as pathways to route necessary pipework between the plurality of heating pipes 605 and the pump 610. For cargo vehicles, piping between the plurality of heating pipes 605 and the pump 610, are routed in protective raceways mounted inside or outside the cargo vehicles.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart of a method 800 for melting of snow and/or ice from vehicle exteriors, in accordance with various embodiments of the invention. The method 800 begins at step 805.

At step 810, the input module, executed by the processor, receives information regarding an ambient temperature Ta outside the vehicle via the ambient temperature sensor, information regarding one of presence and absence of precipitation outside the vehicle, via the precipitation sensor and information regarding a surface temperature Ts on an exterior portion of the vehicle via the surface temperature sensor.

At step 810, the processor compares the ambient temperature Ta with freezing point of water. Further, the processor checks if the precipitation is present. If the ambient temperature Ta is at or lower than the freezing point of water, and if precipitation is present, then the processor executes step 820. Otherwise, the processor executes step 810 again.

At step 820, the heater control module activates the heater thereby melting snow and/or ice on the vehicle.

At step 825, the processor checks if the surface temperature Ts is greater than the cut off surface temperature Tc. If the surface temperature Ts is greater than the cut off surface temperature Tc, then the processor executes step 835. Otherwise, the processor executes step 830.

At step 835, the heater control module, executed by the processor, deactivates the heater based on the surface temperature Ts being greater than the cut off surface temperature Tc.

The method 800 ends at step 830. It is to be understood that the cycle of method steps as shown in FIG. 8 can be repeated based on a clock timer, pre-set time intervals or at the instructions of the processor.

As stated above, examples of the vehicles include, but is not limited to: cars, trucks, vans, buses, minivans, Sports Utility Vehicles (SUV's), cross-over vehicles, trailer trucks, electric vehicles (EVs), hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs), aircrafts, rail vehicles, and trains. The method 800 is implemented in an apparatus for melting of snow. The apparatus comprises a body control module, a programmable controller, and a heater. The body control module is an integral component of the vehicle, and comprises a precipitation sensor, a surface temperature sensor, and an ambient temperature sensor. In one example, the precipitation sensor is an optical sensor. In another example, the precipitation sensor is a TRW-Automotive model 7803 optical sensing system. In another example, the surface temperature sensor is at least one of a thermistor, and a thermocouple. In one example, the surface temperature is a QTI model QT06024A sensor. In yet another example, the ambient temperature sensor is a QTI model QT06005 sensor. Further, the apparatus comprises a programmable controller. The programmable controller is configured to activate and deactivate the heater. The programmable controller comprises a memory unit to store a cut off surface temperature Tc, and a set of program modules. The programmable controller further comprises a processor to execute the set of program modules. The set of program modules comprises an input module and a heater control module.

Referring now to FIG. 9, a top view of a truck bed 900 is shown in accordance with various embodiments of the present invention. The truck bed 900 comprises a truck bed liner 905 secured within and/or constructed as part of the truck bed 900 either as an OEM build or after-market build. The truck bed liner 905 may be molded as a single-piece or several pieces. Additionally, the truck bed liner 905 may include multi-layers or a polymer layer. The polymer layer may be a polyethylene and/or polypropylene layer. The truck bed 900 further comprises a plurality of heating elements 910 (as embodied and/or described above) that are secured within and/or constructed as part of the truck bed liner 905.

Referring now to FIG. 10, a section view of a truck bed 1000 is shown in accordance with various embodiments of the present invention. The truck bed 1000 comprises a truck bed liner 1005 embedded with a plurality of heating elements 1010. The heating elements 1010 are embedded within (and/or underneath an exterior of) the truck bed liner 1005. The truck bed liner 1005 may provide a protective layer (or under-loop system) for the heating elements 1010.

The heating elements 1010 are pliable/flexible and are arranged within the truck bed liner to withstand in the environmental challenges and/or to avoid damages due to heavy cargo loads. The heating elements are cast in the bed liner material sheets prior to the molding or shaping of the bed liner material sheets, or may be cast into the molds or formed as part of the molds using a molding process.

Further, the truck bed liner 1005 interlocks and protects the heating elements all around. The truck bed liner 1005 can itself act as a thermally conductive layer. The truck bed 1000 further comprises an insulating material 1015. The insulating material 1015 is provided between the truck bed 1000 and the truck bed liner 1005.

Further, the heating elements 1010 has one or more terminals. The terminals of the heating elements 1010 are connected to an electric power source (as embodied and/or described above), thereby heating the plurality of heating elements 1010. The heat generated by the heating elements 1010 transfers the heat to the exterior portion of the truck liner and/or vehicle via the thermally conductive layer/truck bed liner 1005, thereby melting the snow from the exterior portion of the vehicle. The heat density required of the heating elements 1010 and truck bed liner 1005 with respect to sufficient thermal conductivity is a function of the rate of snow fall and the temperature outside, and therefore can be further dependent on the geographic area in which the invention is to be utilized, but in a preferred embodiment is preferably 55 watts per square foot.

Referring now to FIG. 11, a top view of a truck bed assembly 1100 is shown in accordance with various embodiments of the present invention. The truck bed assembly 1100 further comprises a truck bed liner 1105 secured within and/or constructed as part of the truck bed assembly 1100 either as an OEM build or after-market build. The truck bed liner 1105 may include multi-layers or a polymer layer. The polymer layer may be a polyethylene and/or polypropylene layer. Additionally, the truck bed liner 1105 may be molded as a single-piece or several pieces. The truck bed assembly 1100 further comprises a plurality of heating elements 1110 (as embodied and/or described above) that are securely assembled underneath the truck bed liner 1105 or above the vehicle's exterior.

Referring now to FIG. 12, a section view of the truck bed assembly 1200 is shown in accordance with various embodiments of the present invention. The truck bed assembly 1200 comprises a truck bed liner 1205 assembled with a plurality of heating elements 1210. The truck bed assembly 1200 further comprises a separate assembly 1215 for the heating elements 1210.

The heating elements 1210 are assembled in the separate assembly 1215 below the truck bed liner 1205. The heating elements 1210 are pliable/flexible and are arranged underneath the truck bed liner to withstand in the environmental challenges and/or to avoid damages due to heavy cargo loads. The heating elements are cast in the bed liner material sheets prior to the molding or shaping of the bed liner material sheets, or may be cast into the molds or formed as part of the molds using a molding process.

Further, the truck bed liner 1205 acts as a thermally conductive layer. The truck bed assembly 1200 further comprises an insulating material 1220. The insulating material 1220 is provided between the truck bed assembly 1200 and the separate assembly 1215 of the heating elements 1210.

Further, the heating elements 1210 has one or more terminals. The terminals of the heating elements 1210 are connected to an electric power source (as embodied and/or described above), thereby heating the plurality of heating elements 1210. The heat generated by the heating elements 1210 transfers via the thermally conductive layer/truck bed liner 1205 to heat the exterior portion of the vehicle, thereby melting the snow from the exterior portion of the vehicle. The heat density required of the heating elements 1210 and truck bed liner 1205 with respect to sufficient thermal conductivity is a function of the rate of snow fall and the temperature outside, and therefore can be further dependent on the geographic area in which the invention is to be utilized, but in a preferred embodiment is preferably 55 watts per square foot.

Accordingly, with respect to the construction variants, the heating elements can be molded into and/or embedded within the bed liner OEM and positioned strategically. Alternatively, the heating elements can be installed in a separate assembly below and/or embedded into the bed liner after-market construction and positioned strategically. The truck beds can be those in trucks or rail-cars, for instance: pick-up truck beds, flat truck beds, semi-trailer truck beds and/or any other type of open-cargo truck bed and/or rail-car bed.

The foregoing description comprises illustrative embodiments of the present invention. Having thus described exemplary embodiments of the present invention, it should be noted by those skilled in the art that the within disclosures are exemplary only, and that various other alternatives, adaptations, and modifications may be made within the scope of the present invention. Merely listing or numbering the steps of a method in a certain order does not constitute any limitation on the order of the steps of that method. Many modifications and other embodiments of the invention will come to mind to one skilled in the art to which this invention pertains having the benefit of the teachings presented in the foregoing descriptions. Although specific terms may be employed herein, they are used only in generic and descriptive sense and not for purposes of limitation. Accordingly, the present invention is not limited to the specific embodiments illustrated herein.

Claims

1. An apparatus for melting snow from an exterior-facing portion of a thermally-conductive truck bed liner positioned within a truck bed of a vehicle, the apparatus comprising: an ambient temperature sensor;a precipitation sensor;a surface temperature sensor;a plurality of heating elements embedded within the truck bed liner, the plurality of heating elements having at least one terminal connected via a relay to an electric power source;a programmable controller configured to activate and deactivate the plurality of heating elements, the programmable controller comprising: a memory unit to store a set of program modules and a cut-off surface temperature, anda processor to execute the set of program modules, wherein the set of program modules comprises: an input module, executed by the processor, configured to: receive information via the ambient temperature sensor regarding an ambient temperature outside the vehicle,receive information via the precipitation sensor regarding one of the presence and absence of precipitation outside the vehicle, andreceive information via the surface temperature sensor regarding a surface temperature on the exterior-facing portion of the vehicle; anda heater control module, executed by the processor, configured to: deactivate the plurality of heating elements based on the surface temperature being greater than the cut-off surface temperature, andactivate the plurality of heat elements based on the ambient temperature being lower than a freezing point of water and the presence of precipitation outside the vehicle,thereby melting snow and/or ice on the exterior-facing portion of the truck bed liner.

2. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising an insulating material positioned between the truck bed and the truck bed liner to minimize heat transfer to the truck bed.

3. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the plurality of heating elements when activated conductively transfer heat to the exterior-facing portion of the thermally-conductive truck bed liner.

4. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the electric power source is at least one of an alternator, an onboard power system, and a remote electric power source.

5. The apparatus of claim 4, wherein the onboard power system comprises at least one of an onboard battery and a supercapacitor.

6. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the truck bed is at least one of a pick-up truck bed, a flat truck bed, a semi-trailer truck bed, an open-cargo truck bed and a rail-car bed.

7. An apparatus for melting snow from an exterior-facing portion of a thermally-conductive truck bed liner positioned within a truck bed of a vehicle, the apparatus comprising: an ambient temperature sensor;a precipitation sensor;a surface temperature sensor;a plurality of heating elements secured below the truck bed liner, the plurality of heating elements having at least one terminal connected via a relay to an electric power source;a programmable controller configured to activate and deactivate the plurality of heating elements, the programmable controller comprising: a memory unit to store a set of program modules and a cut-off surface temperature, anda processor to execute the set of program modules, wherein the set of program modules comprises: an input module, executed by the processor, configured to: receive information via the ambient temperature sensor regarding an ambient temperature outside the vehicle,receive information via the precipitation sensor regarding one of the presence and absence of precipitation outside the vehicle, andreceive information via the surface temperature sensor regarding a surface temperature on the exterior-facing portion of the vehicle; anda heater control module, executed by the processor, configured to: deactivate the plurality of heating elements based on the surface temperature being greater than the cut-off surface temperature, andactivate the plurality of heat elements based on the ambient temperature being lower than a freezing point of water and the presence of precipitation outside the vehicle,thereby melting snow and/or ice on the exterior-facing portion of the truck bed liner.

8. The apparatus of claim 7, further comprising an insulating material positioned between the truck bed and the truck bed liner to minimize heat transfer to the truck bed.

9. The apparatus of claim 7, wherein the plurality of heating elements is a separate assembly, the separate assembly when activated conductively transferring heat to the exterior-facing portion of the thermally-conductive truck bed liner.

10. The apparatus of claim 7, wherein the electric power source is at least one of an alternator, an onboard power system, and a remote electric power source.

11. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the onboard power system comprises at least one of an onboard battery and a supercapacitor.

12. The apparatus of claim 7, wherein the truck bed is at least one of a pick-up truck bed, a flat truck bed, a semi-trailer truck bed, an open-cargo truck bed and a rail-car bed.

13. A method of melting snow from exterior-facing portion of a thermally-conductive truck bed liner positioned within a truck bed of a vehicle, the method comprising: storing in a memory unit a cut off surface temperature and a set of program modules;receiving, by a processor executing an input module, information regarding an ambient temperature outside the vehicle, from an ambient temperature sensor;receiving, by the processor executing the input module, information regarding one of presence and absence of precipitation outside the vehicle, from the precipitation sensor;receiving, by the processor executing the input module, information regarding a surface temperature on an exterior portion of the vehicle, from the surface temperature sensor;deactivating a plurality of heating elements by the processor executing a heater control module based on the surface temperature being greater than the cut off surface temperature; andactivating the plurality of heating elements by the processor executing the heater control module based on the ambient temperature being lower than a freezing point of water and precipitation outside the vehicle being present, wherein when activated the plurality of heating elements conductively transfers heat to the exterior-facing portion of the thermally-conductive truck bed liner thereby melting the snow and/or ice from the exterior-facing portion of the truck bed liner.

14. The method of claim 13, further comprising an insulating material positioned between the truck bed and the truck bed liner to minimize heat transfer to the truck bed.

15. The method of claim 13, wherein the plurality of heating elements are embedded within the truck bed liner.

16. The method of claim 13, wherein the plurality of heating elements are secured below the truck bed liner.

17. The method of claim 13, wherein the plurality of heating elements is electrically coupled via a relay to at least one of an alternator, an onboard power system, and a remote electric power source.

18. The method of claim 17, wherein the onboard power system comprises at least one of an onboard battery and a supercapacitor.

19. The method of claim 13, wherein the truck bed is at least one of a pick-up truck bed, a flat truck bed, a semi-trailer truck bed, an open-cargo truck bed and a rail-car bed.

20. The method of claim 14, wherein the plurality of heating elements is disposed between the thermally conductive truck bed liner and the insulating material.