Heated/Cooled Cupholder - Operation

OPERATION

When the ignition is turned to RUN, the Totally Integrated Power Module (TIPM) supplies battery voltage through a fuse to the heated/cooled cupholder circuit board. A switch on the center floor console operates the heated/cooled cupholder Heated/Cooled Cupholder Switch - Operation. The heated/cooled cupholder can heat up to 60° C (140° F) or cool to near 1.6° C (35° F). When the unit is on, either the red or blue Light Emitting Diode (LED) between the cupholder cavities will illuminated to indicate which function is operating. The blue LED illuminates when the unit is set to cool and the red LED illuminates when the unit is set to heat.

A Positive Temperature Coefficient (PTC) ceramic element provides the temperature change. Direct Current (DC) either heats or cools the PTC ceramic element, depending on which way current is applied through the element. The PTC ceramic element is attached to an aluminum cylinder that forms the side of the cupholder. The PTC material used in the heated/cooled cupholder has the unique property of very low resistance to electric current. This allows it to change temperature rapidly and to transfer heat quickly. The PTC ceramic element is self-regulating. As the PTC ceramic element reaches the desired temperature, the resistance increases dramatically, preventing an excessive temperature. The desired temperature is determined by the chemical makeup of the ceramic material. The aluminum cylinder distributes and transfers the heat from the relatively small PTC element to the beverage container. In addition, a heat sink is used to increase the heat transfer area.

A special 531 ml (20 oz.) mug is included with the heated/cooled cupholder to increase its effectiveness. The lower section of the mug is aluminum and fits closely within the cupholder to maximize the heat transfer potential. The upper section of the mug is insulated to keep the contents at the desired temperature.

The heated cooled cupholder cannot be adjusted or repaired and must be replaced if inoperative or damaged. The LED indicator lens can be serviced separately Heated/Cooled Cupholder - Removal.