Johnson Controls presents EcoClimate - the first seat with natural air and moisture transfer

Pleasant seating climate without fans

Burscheid, Germany (ots) - The newly developed EcoClimate seat from Johnson Controls, one of the world's leading suppliers of automotive interior systems, features a ventilation system that works without the use of fans. Breathable materials inside the seat absorb moisture, thus keeping the body cool in summer temperatures and enhancing seating comfort considerably. EcoClimate is the first seat on the market to feature this kind of system, providing a cost-effective alternative to seats with active cooling systems. It was designed especially for entry level cars and vehicles in the small to lower medium segments.

Unlike seats with active cooling systems, there are no fans integrated into EcoClimate seats. Seat ventilation is achieved solely through the combination of breathable and absorbent materials in the seat cushions and backrest. When driving in summer temperatures, these materials cause moisture and heat to be transferred from the driver into the seat and then released again into the interior. The unpleasant feeling of sweating in one's seat, despite air-conditioning, is now a thing of the past. As soon as the occupant gets out of the car, EcoClimate gradually releases the absorbed moisture into the air, completely regenerating itself in the process. EcoClimate is able to absorb 30 percent more heat than conventional seats and its moisture absorption rate is 300 percent higher.

The difference is on the inside

From the outside, EcoClimate doesn't look any different from other vehicle seats, and its weight and the space it requires are also similar. Comfort performance criteria such as seat pressure distribution, firmness and the height of the seat remain unchanged. A variety of upholstery fabrics or perforated leather can be selected for the seat covers. Optional seat heating can be integrated into these seats regardless of the material chosen.

The lifecycle durability of EcoClimate seats is not affected by its moisture-absorbing properties; it is comparable with that of conventional seats.

The EcoClimate seat will be available as driver, passenger, or rear seat. As a complement to air conditioning, the seat makes a tangible contribution to the comfort of both driver and passengers, improving seat climate even when the air conditioning is not turned on.

Tests and consumer studies set the standards

The engineers at Johnson Controls developed the EcoClimate seat with the help of special testing methods. For example, for climate and comfort tests they designed a special dummy that is similar to humans in shape and temperature. This dummy was used to test various materials and material combinations for both comfort and microclimatic properties. However, the actual driver had the last word. Johnson Controls initiated a consumer study in May 2002 in Seville, in the hot climate of Spain. The test subjects first drove in an air-conditioned Small segment car with a conventional seat, and then in the same model with EcoClimate, without being informed about the seat switch. The test showed that the subjects did perceive the difference and definitely preferred the EcoClimate seat.

A photo of the EcoClimat seat can be obtained at http://www.johnsoncontrols-press.com/GB/gb_img.asp

Further press material and photos of Johnson Controls are available in the internet under www.johnsoncontrols-press.com and www.johnsoncontrols-presse.de in English, French and German.

Johnson Controls, Inc. is one of the world's leading suppliers of automotive interior systems and facility management and control.

In the automotive market, it is one of the largest manufacturers of seating and interior systems as well as automotive batteries. For non-residential facilities, Johnson Controls provides building control systems and services, energy management and integrated facility management.

Johnson Controls (New York Stock Exchange: JCI), founded in 1885, has its headquarters in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. The European headquarters is in Burscheid, Germany. Its sales for 2002 totaled 20.1 billion US-Dollars, the Automotive Systems Group alone accounting for 15 billion US-Dollars of this figure. In the current "Industry Week" business magazine rankings, Johnson Controls has been listed as one of the top 100 best run companies in the world for the fifth time in succession.