I think it’s fair to say that, as a society, we spend a little too much time sitting down. Why else would a whole sector of the economy be devoted to enhancing seat cushions and promoting better posture? You’ve probably seen some of the other products we’ve shared over the years that are connected to posture and seats. Is anyone up for a headrest in the shape of a hand to improve posture? That’s a mouthful. Butt-warming bleacher seat? It’s brilliant that Japanese inventors have just unveiled a brand-new memory foam cushion type, this time with integrated USB-powered fans!

You understand the feeling: it’s the middle of summer and you have to work an endless eight-hour shift while sitting in the same place. After some time, the area where the butt meets the cushion gets dreadfully hot and stuffy, making it nearly impossible to sit in a comfortable cooling chair.

Step 1: Materials

1. Perfboard
2. 2x 10K ohm resistors
3. 1x MOSFET IRF540N
4. 1x 2N3906 PNP Transistor
5. 1x IR Infrared Obstacle Avoidance Sensor Module
6. 1x Micro B USB Breakout Board
7. 90-degree Pin Header
8. 1x 6Pin Push Tactile Power Micro Switch Self to lock On/Off button Latching switch 7x7mm
9. 3x Dupont wire F-F
10. 3x Brushless DC Cooling Blower Fan 2 Wires 5015S 12V 0.14A 50x15mm
11. 1x SKÅLBERG chair from IKEA
12. 1x M3 x 10 mm screw
13. 2x M3 x 15 mm screws
14. 3D Printed Parts

Tools

basic instruments, including screwdrivers, a drill, a utility knife, etc. Soldering tools

Step 2: Prepare Perfboard

1. Cut a piece of perfboard with 14*20 dots.
2. drilling two 7/64″ holes (see the positions of the holes in the pictures)

TIPS:

By scoring both sides of the perfboard with a utility knife and snapping it, you can quickly and easily cut it.

Step 3: Prepare Components

1. Cut out 1 piece of 1×3 pin and 3 pieces of 1×2 pin
2. Bend the IR Emitter LED and the IR Receiver at 90 degrees.

Step 4: The Circuit

All components should be placed on the perfboard and soldered. (see more details in pictures)

TIPS:

Wires can be made from the legs of components.

NOTES:

Please also view the actual images since the graphic images are not exactly 100% accurate.

Step 5: Adjust Detection Distance

1. Without connecting the OUT pin, connect the IR Infrared Obstacle Avoidance Sensor Module to the power source.
2. Turn the distance adjust knob (CCW decreases distance, CW increases distance) until the obstacle LED bright when the obstacle is detected at the right distance (for me about 2-3 cm)

Step 6: Put Circuits In The Boxes

Place the circuit in the 3D-printed cover after inserting the IR Infrared Obstacle Avoidance Sensor Module, and then tighten the screws. (see more details in pictures)

Step 7: Wiring

Foam tape should be used to secure the blowers and IR module to the main circuit (see the pictures for more information).

Step 8: Install

1. Attach every component to the chair using tape. (more details in pictures) and neaten wires.
2. Connect the USB cable to Cooling module and power source (For me is a power bank)
3. Turn it on and no more grilling your butt ;

Another Choice: Cooling Seat Cushions

Everyone deserves to be comfortable, whether they are using a wheelchair, driving, or working long hours from their office. However, comfort is more than just the feel of the seat. Both a hard surface and excessive heat can be uncomfortable. Fortunately, the best cooling seat cushions can offer some relief in terms of both support and temperature regulation.

However, before you choose, you should do a little bit of research. To begin with, it’s crucial to be aware that there are numerous options available in terms of materials. Some pillows are made of memory foam or gel that is designed specifically to wick heat away from the body, while other pillows have a full-on built-in cooling system.

If you frequently experience back or hip pain, you might also want to select a model that offers orthopedic cut-outs, spine support, or posture improvement; you should also think about whether you prefer a model with just a seat cushion or a seat and a back. Although they do provide more support, seat cushions with backs may be more challenging to move from one location to another.

While picking the ideal cooling seat cushion for you largely depends on your preferences.

automatic chair cooling

Lucky Wong