Seat heater

Abstract

A seat heater (1A) is provided with a base material (10). The base material is provided with a first U-shaped part (20) and a second U-shaped part (30) provided on the inside of the first U-shaped part. The first U-shaped part is provided with a pair of first extension parts (21a, 21b), and the second U-shaped part is provided with a pair of second extension parts (31a, 31b) extending parallel to the first extension parts. First zigzag sections (22a, 22b) of the first extension sections are provided with: first convex sections (221a, 221b) that protrude toward the outside of the seat heater (1) in plan view; and second convex parts (222a, 222b) that protrude toward the inside of the seat heater (1) in a plan view, the second curved parts (32a, 32b) of the first extension parts being provided with: third convex parts (321a, 321b) that protrude toward the outside in a plan view; and fourth protrusions (322a, 322b) that protrude inward in a plan view.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a seat heater installed in a seat.

[0002] Regarding the designated countries that are permitted to be incorporated by reference to the literature, the contents described in Japanese Special Application No. 2023-181146 filed in Japan on October 20, 2023 are incorporated into this specification as part of the description of this specification. Background Technology

[0003] As a seat heater disposed on the seat surface of a vehicle seat, there are known seat heaters having an electrically insulating film-like substrate, an electrode formed on the substrate, and a polymer resistive body connected to the electrode (for example, see Patent Document 1).

[0004] The substrate of the seat heater has a first cutout extending from the outer edge of the front side of the vehicle toward the rear side, a second cutout extending from the outer edge of the first cutout toward the opposite side of the first cutout, a plurality of first slits extending linearly in the left-right direction of the vehicle, and a plurality of second slits extending linearly in the front-rear direction (for example, see Patent Document 1). Figure 3 ).

[0005] Such a seat heater is divided into two parts in the left-right direction of the vehicle through a first cut. The part that is closer to the right side of the vehicle than the first cut constitutes the right heater part corresponding to the passenger's right thigh, and the part that is closer to the left side of the vehicle than the first cut constitutes the left heater part corresponding to the passenger's left thigh.

[0006] Furthermore, the right-side heater section and the left-side heater section can deform in a manner that corresponds to the deformation of the seat surface when the passenger is seated, extending in the front, rear, left, and right directions of the vehicle through the second cut and the first and second slits.

[0007] Existing technical documents Patent documents Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2008-238926 Summary of the Invention

[0008] (a) Technical problems to be solved However, in the prior art described above, near the center of each heater section, there is a connection portion where the second slits are discontinuous and do not form a second slit. Therefore, at this connection portion, the vehicle's lateral deformation is restricted, resulting in a deterioration in seating comfort.

[0009] The problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a seat heater that can improve the comfort of sitting.

[0010] (II) Technical Solution [1] Embodiment 1 of the present invention is a seat heater comprising: a substrate having flexibility; and a heater portion formed thereon, wherein the substrate comprises: a first U-shaped portion having a generally U-shaped planar shape; and a second U-shaped portion disposed inside the first U-shaped portion having a generally U-shaped planar shape, the first U-shaped portion comprising: a pair of first extensions extending along a first direction; and a first connecting portion connecting the first ends of the pair of first extensions to each other, the second U-shaped portion comprising: a pair of second extensions extending substantially parallel to the first extensions; and a second connecting portion The first extension connects the second ends of the pair of second extensions to each other. The first extension has a plurality of first bends arranged along the first direction, and the second extension has a plurality of second bends arranged along the first direction. The first bend has: a first protrusion that bends outward toward the outside of the seat heater when viewed from above; and a second protrusion that bends inward toward the inside of the seat heater when viewed from above. The second bend has: a third protrusion that bends outward toward the outside when viewed from above; and a fourth protrusion that bends inward toward the inside when viewed from above.

[0011] [2] Embodiment 2 of the present invention may also be a seat heater in which the first connecting portion has a plurality of third bends arranged along a second direction different from the first direction, the third bends having: a fifth protrusion that bends toward the outside of the seat heater when viewed from above; and a sixth protrusion that bends toward the inside of the seat heater when viewed from above.

[0012] [3] The third embodiment of the present invention may also be a seat heater in which the second connecting portion has a fourth bend portion in the seat heater of embodiment 1 or 2, the fourth bend portion having: a seventh protrusion that bends toward the outside of the seat heater when viewed from above; and an eighth protrusion that bends toward the inside of the seat heater when viewed from above.

[0013] [4] The fourth embodiment of the present invention may also be a seat heater in which, in any of the embodiments 1 to 3, the third protrusion is opposite to the first opening between the adjacent second protrusion.

[0014] [5] The fifth embodiment of the present invention may also be a seat heater in which, in the seat heater of the fourth embodiment, the fourth protrusion of one second extension is opposite to the fourth protrusion of the other second extension.

[0015] [6] Embodiment 6 of the present invention may also be a seat heater in which the first protrusion to the fourth protrusion has an arc shape in any of the embodiments 1 to 5.

[0016] [7] Embodiment 7 of the present invention may also be a seat heater in which, in any of the embodiments 1 to 6, the first zigzag portion has a first straight portion connecting the first protrusion and the second protrusion, the second zigzag portion has a second straight portion connecting the third protrusion and the fourth protrusion, and the length of the second straight portion is longer than the length of the first straight portion.

[0017] [8] Embodiment 7 of the present invention may also be a seat heater in which the fifth to eighth protrusions have an arc shape, as in the seat heater of Embodiment 3.

[0018] [9] Embodiment 9 of the present invention may also be a seat heater in which, in any of the embodiments 1 to 8, the substrate further comprises a first communicating hole that penetrates the substrate and is formed between the first U-shaped portion and the second U-shaped portion. The first communicating hole comprises a pair of first gaps formed between the first extension portion and the second extension portion and extending along the first direction, and a second gap formed between the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion and communicating with the pair of first gaps.

[0019]

[10] Embodiment 10 of the present invention may also be a seat heater in which the substrate further comprises a second through hole that extends through the substrate and is formed on the inner side of the second U-shaped portion, wherein the second through hole extends along the first direction.

[0020]

[11] Embodiment 11 of the present invention may also be a seat heater in which the substrate further comprises a connecting portion disposed at a position corresponding to the seat hanging groove and connecting the first U-shaped portion and the second U-shaped portion in any of the embodiments 1 to 10.

[0021]

[12] Embodiment 11 of the present invention may also be a seat heater in which, in any of the embodiments 1 to 12, the second extension further comprises an expansion portion connected to the second bend portion, one end of the expansion portion being a fixed end connected to the second bend portion, and one end of the expansion portion being a free end.

[0022] (III) Beneficial Effects The seat heater of the present invention includes a first U-shaped portion and a second U-shaped portion disposed inside the first U-shaped portion. Furthermore, the first and second extensions of the first and second U-shaped portions have first and second bent portions extending along a first direction. Therefore, the seat heater of the present invention is easily deformable in at least four directions, thus avoiding limitations on deformation in a specific direction and improving seating comfort. Attached Figure Description

[0023] Figure 1 This is a top view showing a seat equipped with the seat heater of the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0024] Figure 2 This is a top view showing the seat heater according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0025] Figure 3 It is along Figure 1 Enlarged cross-sectional view of line III-III.

[0026] Figure 4 This is a top view showing the substrate of the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0027] Figure 5 It means Figure 4 An enlarged top view of the V-shaped section.

[0028] Figure 6 It means Figure 4 An enlarged top view of section IV.

[0029] Figure 7 This is a top view showing the seat heater according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

[0030] Figure 8 This is a top view showing a seat equipped with the seat heater of the second embodiment of the present invention.

[0031] Figure 9 (a) is along Figure 8 Cross-sectional view of line IXa-IXa. Figure 9 (b) is along Figure 8 A cross-sectional view of the IXb-IXb line.

[0032] Figure 10 This is an enlarged top view showing the seat heater according to the third embodiment of the present invention.

[0033] Figure 11 It is along Figure 10 A cross-sectional view of the XI-XI line. Detailed Implementation

[0034] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0035] <First Implementation Method> Figure 1 This is a top view showing an example of a seat 90 equipped with the seat heater 1A of the first embodiment. Figure 2 This is a top view showing the seat heater 1A according to the first embodiment. Figure 3 It is along Figure 1 Enlarged cross-sectional view of line III-III. Figure 4 This is a top view showing the substrate 10 of the first embodiment. Figure 5 It means Figure 2 An enlarged top view of the V-shaped section. Figure 6 It means Figure 2 An enlarged top view of section IV.

[0036] The seat heater 1A in this embodiment is not particularly limited and is used as a seat heater for automobiles and other vehicles. Specifically, as Figure 1 As shown, it is used by installing it on the seat surface 901 of the seat 90 of the vehicle. Furthermore, in Figure 1 In this embodiment, the seat heater 1A is exposed on the seat surface 901, but in reality, the seat heater 1A is covered by a seat cover (decorative cover). Furthermore, in this embodiment, a vehicle-mounted seat heater 1A is exemplified, but the seat on which the seat heater 1A is installed is not limited to a vehicle seat, and may also be a seat other than a vehicle seat.

[0037] like Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the seat heater 1A includes a substrate 10, a heater part 40, and an insulating and corrosion-resistant layer 50 (see reference). Figure 3 ), Adhesive layer 60 (refer to) Figure 3 ) and substrate holding part 70.

[0038] The substrate 10 is a resin film with flexibility and electrical insulation. Examples of resin materials constituting the resin film include polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyethylene naphthalate (PEN), polyimide (PI), liquid crystal polymer (LCP), polyetherimide (PEI), polyether ether ketone (PEEK), and aromatic polyamides.

[0039] like Figure 4 As shown, the substrate 10 includes a wide portion 15, a first U-shaped portion 20, and a second U-shaped portion 30 disposed inside the first U-shaped portion 20. Such a substrate 10 can be manufactured, for example, by punching a flat resin sheet.

[0040] The wide portion 15 is located on the rear side of the base material 10. There are no particular limitations, such as... Figure 1 As shown, when the seat heater 1A is installed on the seat 90, the wide portion 15 is located on the underside of the seat back (not shown).

[0041] like Figure 4 As shown, the wide portion 15 in this embodiment has a generally rectangular shape. This wide portion 15 includes a left side portion 151 and a right side portion 152. The left side portion 151 is located on the left side of the vehicle relative to the center line CL of the seat heater 1A. On the other hand, the right side portion 152 is located on the right side of the vehicle relative to the center line CL. The planar shape of the left side portion 151 is symmetrical with respect to the center line CL to the planar shape of the right side portion 152. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the center line CL is an imaginary straight line that bisects the substrate 10 in the left-right direction (the direction of the shorter side of the substrate 10) and extends along the front-back direction (the direction of the longer side of the substrate 10).

[0042] A first U-shaped portion 20 with a generally U-shaped planar shape is connected to the wide portion 15. The first U-shaped portion 20 is located on the front side of the wide portion 15, and its two rear ends 23a are connected to the left side portion 151 and the right side portion 152, respectively. The first U-shaped portion 20 constitutes part of the outermost peripheral end of the substrate 10.

[0043] like Figure 1 As shown, when the seat heater 1A is installed on the seat 90, such a first U-shaped portion 20 is arranged on the seat surface 901 where the passenger sits, at a position corresponding to the passenger's hips 1000 to thighs 2000.

[0044] like Figure 4 As shown, the first U-shaped part 20 has a pair of first extensions 21a and 21b on the left and right and a first connecting part 25.

[0045] The first extension 21a is disposed on the left side of the vehicle relative to the centerline CL. This first extension 21a is connected to and integrally formed with the left side portion 151 of the width portion 15. The first extension 21a extends from the left side portion 151 toward the front of the vehicle. Furthermore, the "front" in the figure corresponds to an example of the "first direction" in the embodiment of the present invention.

[0046] The first extension 21a includes a plurality of first bends 22a arranged from the left side portion 151 along the front of the vehicle. In this embodiment, the first bends 22a have a generally S-shaped form, so the first extension 21a in this embodiment bends repeatedly in the left-right direction and extends towards the front of the vehicle as a whole.

[0047] like Figure 5As shown, the first curved portion 22a includes a first protrusion 221a, a second protrusion 222a, and a first straight portion 223a. In this embodiment, the first protrusion 221a is curved to the left, which is different from and approximately perpendicular to the front when viewed from above. Without particular limitation, the shape of the first protrusion 221a is a semi-circular arc shape. Furthermore, in the first curved portion 22a, the left side in the figure corresponds to an example of the "outer side of the seat heater" in the embodiment of the present invention.

[0048] The first protrusion 221a is arc-shaped, which facilitates the forward extension of the first extension 21a and improves its durability against such extension. Furthermore, the shape of the first protrusion 221a in this embodiment is not limited to a semi-circular arc shape. The first protrusion 221a can simply have a shape that allows the first curved portion 22a to extend and retract along the front-back direction shown in the figure. For example, the first protrusion 221a can also be a non-semi-circular sector shape, i.e., an arc shape with a central angle other than 180°. Alternatively, the shape of the first protrusion 221a can also be a curved shape other than an arc. Or, the shape of the first protrusion 221a can also be a broken line shape.

[0049] On the other hand, in this embodiment, the second protrusion 222a is curved so that it protrudes to the right, opposite to the left, when viewed from above. Without particular limitation, the shape of the second protrusion 222a is also a semi-circular arc shape. Because the second protrusion 222a is arc-shaped, as described above, the first extension 21a can easily extend and retract forward, and its durability against this extension and retraction is also improved. Furthermore, in the first bend 22a, the right side in the figure corresponds to an example of the "inner side of the seat heater" in the embodiment of the present invention. Additionally, the shape of the second protrusion 222a, like the first protrusion 221a, is not limited to a semi-circular arc shape; it can also be a non-semi-circular fan-shaped arc shape, a curved shape other than an arc, or a broken line shape.

[0050] In this embodiment, a second protrusion 222a is configured to overlap with and oppose two adjacent first protrusions 221a when viewed from the left (or right). In this embodiment, the rear end of the second protrusion 222a opposes the front end of the first protrusion 221a located further rearward than the second protrusion 222a, and conversely, the front end of the second protrusion 222a opposes the rear end of the first protrusion 221a located further forward than the second protrusion 222a.

[0051] In this embodiment, the first straight section 223a extends in the left-right direction, connecting the first protrusion 221a and the second protrusion 222a. The first straight section 223a connects the front end of the first protrusion 221a to the rear end of the second protrusion 222a, or connects the rear end of the first protrusion 221a to the front end of the second protrusion 222a. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the first protrusion 221a is connected to the second protrusion 222a via the first straight section 223a, but it can also be directly connected to the second protrusion 222a.

[0052] In this first extension 21a, a first opening 224a is formed between adjacent second protrusions 222a, and a second opening 224b is formed between adjacent first protrusions 221a. In this embodiment, a plurality of first and second openings 224a, 224b are intermittently formed throughout the entire first extension 21a, so the first extension 21a can be deformed in a way that stretches and contracts along the front-back direction shown in the figure.

[0053] Furthermore, without particular limitation, the minimum width W1 of the first opening 224a and the minimum width W2 of the second opening 224b can both be set to more than 1 / 2 times the line width W3 of the first bend 22a (W1≥W3×1 / 2, W2≥W3×1 / 2). The minimum width W1 of the first opening 224a and the minimum width W2 of the second opening 224b satisfy the numerical range described above, thereby forming a relatively wide opening relative to the first bend 22a, thus increasing the amount of expansion and contraction of the first extension 21a in the front-back direction.

[0054] like Figure 4 As shown, the first extension 21b is located on the right side relative to the center line CL. This first extension 21b is connected to and integrally formed with the right side portion 152 of the width portion 15. The first extension 21b bends in the left-right direction while extending towards the front of the vehicle.

[0055] In this embodiment, the shape of the first extension 21b is symmetrical with respect to the center line CL and the first extension 21a. Therefore, the first extension 21b also includes a plurality of first bends 22b arranged from the right side portion 152 along the front of the vehicle. Alternatively, the shape of the first extension 21b may not be symmetrical with respect to the first extension 21a.

[0056] like Figure 4As shown, the first curved portion 22b includes a first protrusion 221b, a second protrusion 222b, and a first straight portion 223b. In this embodiment, the shapes of the first protrusion 221b, the second protrusion 222b, and the first straight portion 223b are respectively symmetrical to the shapes of the first protrusion 221a, the second protrusion 222a, and the first straight portion 223a. Furthermore, these shapes may also be different from those of the first protrusion 221a, the second protrusion 222a, and the first straight portion 223a.

[0057] In this first extension 21b, a second opening 224b is formed between adjacent first protrusions 221b, and a first opening 224a is formed between adjacent second protrusions 222b. Thus, the first extension 21b can extend and retract in the front-back direction.

[0058] Furthermore, without particular limitation, in the first extension 21b, the minimum width W1 of the first opening 224a and the minimum width W2 of the second opening 224b are both more than 1 / 2 times the line width W3 of the first bend 22a (W1≥W3×1 / 2, W2≥W3×1 / 2). As a result, the amount of extension and retraction of the first extension 21b in the front-back direction can be increased.

[0059] A first connecting portion 25 is disposed on the front side of a pair of first extensions 21a, 21b, connecting the front ends 23b, 23b of the pair of first extensions 21a, 21b. In this embodiment, the first connecting portion 25 extends in a left-right direction, intersecting the center line CL. Furthermore, the front end 23b corresponds to an example of the "first end" in the embodiment of the present invention.

[0060] The first connecting portion 25 includes a pair of L-shaped portions 26 and a plurality of third bends 27. The pair of L-shaped portions 26 are provided at the left and right ends of the first connecting portion 25 and have a generally L-shaped planar shape. The pair of L-shaped portions 26 are respectively connected to the front end portion 23b of the first extension portions 21a and 21b.

[0061] Between a pair of L-shaped portions 26, a plurality of third bends 27 are arranged along a left (or right) direction different from the front. In this embodiment, the third bends 27 have a generally S-shaped form, thus the first connecting portion 25 in this embodiment extends towards the left and right directions of the vehicle while repeatedly bending in the front-rear direction. The third bends 27 include a fifth protrusion 271, a sixth protrusion 272, and a third straight portion 273. Furthermore, the left or right direction in the figure corresponds to an example of the "second direction" in the embodiment of the present invention.

[0062] In this embodiment, the fifth protrusion 271 is curved so that it protrudes forward when viewed from above. There is no particular limitation that the shape of the fifth protrusion 271 is a semi-circular arc shape. Furthermore, the shape of the fifth protrusion 271 may also be a non-semi-circular fan-shaped arc shape, a curved shape other than an arc, or a broken line shape. Additionally, in the first connecting portion 25, the front part in the figure corresponds to an example of the "outer side of the seat heater" in the embodiment of the present invention.

[0063] On the other hand, the sixth protrusion 272 in this embodiment is curved so that it protrudes rearward when viewed from above. Without particular limitation, the shape of the sixth protrusion 272 is also a semi-circular arc shape. Furthermore, the shape of the sixth protrusion 272 can also be a non-semi-circular fan-shaped arc shape, a curve shape other than an arc, or a broken line shape. Additionally, in the first connecting portion 25, the rearward direction in the figure corresponds to an example of the "inner side of the seat heater" in the embodiment of the present invention.

[0064] The sixth protrusion 272 is configured to overlap with and oppose the two adjacent fifth protrusions 271 when viewed from the front (or rear). In this embodiment, the left end of the sixth protrusion 272 opposes the right end of the fifth protrusion 271, which is located to the left of the sixth protrusion 272, and the right end of the sixth protrusion 272 opposes the left end of the fifth protrusion 271, which is located to the right of the sixth protrusion 272.

[0065] The third straight section 273 extends in the front-rear direction, connecting the fifth protrusion 271 and the sixth protrusion 272. This third straight section 273 connects the left end of the fifth protrusion 271 to the right end of the sixth protrusion 272, or connects the right end of the fifth protrusion 271 to the left end of the sixth protrusion 272. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the fifth protrusion 271 may also be directly connected to the sixth protrusion 272.

[0066] A second U-shaped portion 30 is provided inside the first U-shaped portion 20 and the first connecting hole 11. The second U-shaped portion 30 has a generally U-shaped planar shape that is narrower than the width of the first U-shaped portion 20. The second U-shaped portion 30 is separated from the first U-shaped portion 20 through the first connecting hole 11.

[0067] The second U-shaped portion 30 is located in front of the wide portion 15, and its two rear ends 33a are connected to the left side portion 151 and the right side portion 152, respectively. Therefore, the second U-shaped portion 30 is surrounded by the wide portion 15 and the first U-shaped portion 20 when viewed from above.

[0068] like Figure 1As shown, when the seat heater 1A is installed on the seat 90, the second U-shaped part 30 is disposed on the seat surface 901 where the passenger sits, and is disposed in the same position as the first U-shaped part 20, corresponding to the passenger's hip 1000 to thigh 2000.

[0069] like Figure 4 As shown, the second U-shaped portion 30 has a pair of second extensions 31a and 31b on the left and right sides and a second connecting portion 35. The second extension 31a is disposed on the left side relative to the center line CL. The second extension 31a is disposed between the first extension 21a and the center line CL, and is closer to the center line CL than the first extension 21a.

[0070] The second extension 31a connects to the left side portion 151 of the wide portion 15 at a position further inward than the first extension 21a, and is integrally formed with the left side portion 151. The second extension 31a, like the first extension 21a, extends towards the front of the vehicle.

[0071] The second extension 31a includes a plurality of second bends 32a arranged along the front. In this embodiment, the second bends 32a have a generally S-shaped shape that is wider than the first bend 22a. In this embodiment, the second extension 31a bends repeatedly in the left-right direction with an amplitude greater than that of the first extension 21a, and extends generally toward the front of the vehicle.

[0072] like Figure 5 As shown, the second bend 32a includes a third protrusion 321a, a fourth protrusion 322a, and a second straight section 323a. In this embodiment, the third protrusion 321a bends in a manner that it protrudes to the left of the vehicle when viewed from above, and has a shape substantially the same as the first protrusion 221a described above. The third protrusion 321a is an arc shape, thereby improving the flexibility and durability of the second bend 32a. Furthermore, the shape of the third protrusion 321a can also be the aforementioned arc shape that is not a semicircle, a curved shape other than an arc, or a broken line shape.

[0073] Furthermore, the third protrusion 321a is opposite to the first opening 224a of the first bend 22a. Therefore, the third protrusion 321a of the second bend 32a is offset from the second protrusion 222a of the first bend 22a in the front-rear direction. In this seat heater 1A, compared to the distance between the third and second protrusions when the third protrusion is not opposite the first opening but is entirely opposite to the second protrusion, the distance between the third protrusion 321a and the second protrusion 222a, which are offset in the front-rear direction, is larger in the tilt direction (the direction of tilt relative to the front-rear and left-right directions). Therefore, the extendable amount of the seat heater 1A in the tilt direction can be further increased. Therefore, the seating comfort when seated in the seat 90 can be improved. In other words, when a passenger sits in the seat 90, they are less likely to feel a hardness and less likely to experience abnormal noises associated with the deformation of the seat heater 1A.

[0074] In addition, passengers are seated in seat 90 of the vehicle (refer to...) Figure 1 When getting on and off the vehicle, passengers first sit in seat 90 from either the left or right side of the vehicle, and then adjust their seating position by rotating their body forward. Conversely, when alighting, passengers rotate their body to either the left or right side of the vehicle before leaving seat 90. Based on these body movements during alighting and disembarking, loads are applied to the seat surface 901 in various directions. However, if the seat heater 1A has a large elongation in the tilting direction as described above, its durability against repeated alighting and disembarking can be improved.

[0075] Furthermore, the third protrusion 321a and the second protrusion 222a are offset in the front-rear direction, allowing the first extension 21a and the second extension 31a to approach each other, thus enabling them to meet the passenger's left thigh 2001 (see reference). Figure 1 The corresponding position increases the area of ​​the heater section 40.

[0076] like Figure 5 As shown, the fourth protrusion 322a in this embodiment is curved to the right when viewed from above, and has a shape substantially the same as the second protrusion 222a described above. The fourth protrusion 322a is an arc shape, thereby improving the elasticity and durability of the second bent portion 32a. Furthermore, the shape of the fourth protrusion 322a can also be an arc shape that is not a semicircle (sector shape), a curve shape other than an arc, or a broken line shape.

[0077] In this embodiment, a fourth protrusion 322a is configured to overlap with and oppose two adjacent third protrusions 321a when viewed from the left (or right). In this embodiment, the rear end of the fourth protrusion 322a opposes the front end of the third protrusion 321a located further rearward than the fourth protrusion 322a, and conversely, the front end of the fourth protrusion 322a opposes the rear end of the third protrusion 321a located further forward than the fourth protrusion 322a.

[0078] In addition, such as Figure 5 As shown, in this embodiment, the second straight portion 323a extends in the left-right direction, connecting the third protrusion 321a and the fourth protrusion 322a. This second straight portion 323a connects the front end of the third protrusion 321a to the rear end of the fourth protrusion 322a, or connects the rear end of the third protrusion 321a to the front end of the fourth protrusion 322a. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the third protrusion 321a may also be directly connected to the fourth protrusion 322a.

[0079] The length L2 of the second straight section 323a is longer than the length L1 of the first straight section 223a (L2 > L1). For example... Figure 4 As shown, the second U-shaped portion 30 is located inside the first U-shaped portion 20, therefore the dimensions of the second U-shaped portion 30 (width in the front-to-back direction and width in the left-to-right direction) are smaller than those of the first U-shaped portion 20. Even so, in this embodiment, by making the length L2 of the second straight portion 323a longer than the length L1 of the first straight portion 223a, the length of the second U-shaped portion 30 can be made approximately the same as the length of the first U-shaped portion 20. Therefore, the resistance value of the second heating wire 414 (described later) formed on the second U-shaped portion 30 can be made the same as the resistance value of the first heating wire 413 (described later) formed on the first U-shaped portion 20, thus suppressing the generation of heat distribution in the heater portion 40.

[0080] Furthermore, in the second extension 31a, a third opening 324a is formed between adjacent fourth protrusions 322a, and a fourth opening 324b is formed between adjacent third protrusions 321a. This fourth opening 324b is opposite to the second protrusion 222a. In this embodiment, a plurality of third and fourth openings 324a and 324b are intermittently formed throughout the entire second extension 31a, thus allowing the second extension 31a to extend and retract along the front-back direction shown in the figure.

[0081] In addition, there are no special restrictions, such as Figure 6As shown, in the second extension 31a, the minimum width W4 of the third opening 324a and the minimum width W5 of the fourth opening 324b are both more than 1 / 2 times the line width W6 of the second bend 32a (W4≥W6×1 / 2, W5≥W6×1 / 2). This allows for an increase in the amount of extension and retraction of the second extension 31a in the front-to-back direction.

[0082] like Figure 4 As shown, the second extension 31b is disposed on the right side relative to the center line CL. The second extension 31b is disposed between the first extension 21b and the center line CL, and is closer to the center line CL than the first extension 21b.

[0083] The second extension 31b connects to the right side portion 152 at a position further inward than the first extension 21b, and is integrally formed with the right side portion 152. The second extension 31b bends in the left and right direction while extending towards the front of the vehicle.

[0084] In this embodiment, the shape of the second extension 31b is symmetrical with respect to the center line CL and the line of the second extension 31a. Therefore, the second extension 31b also includes a plurality of second bends 32b arranged from the right side portion 152 along the front of the vehicle. Furthermore, the shape of the second extension 31b may not be symmetrical with the line of the second extension 31a.

[0085] like Figure 6 As shown, the second curved portion 32b includes a third protrusion 321b, a fourth protrusion 322b, and a second straight portion 323b. In this embodiment, the shapes of the third protrusion 321b, the fourth protrusion 322b, and the second straight portion 323b of the second curved portion 32b are respectively symmetrical to the shapes of the third protrusion 321a, the fourth protrusion 322a, and the second straight portion 323a. Furthermore, these shapes may also be different from those of the third protrusion 321a, the fourth protrusion 322a, and the second straight portion 323a.

[0086] In this second extension 31b, a fourth opening 324b is also formed between adjacent third protrusions 321b, and a third opening 324a is formed between adjacent fourth protrusions 322b. Thus, the second extension 31b can extend and retract in the front-back direction.

[0087] In addition, such as Figure 4As shown, the third protrusion 321b is opposite to the first opening 224a. Therefore, the third protrusion 321b of the second bend 32b is offset from the second protrusion 222b of the first bend 22b in the front-rear direction. In such a seat heater 1A, similarly as described above, the distance between the third protrusion 321b and the second protrusion 222b, which are offset in the front-rear direction, increases in the tilting direction, thus further increasing the extendable amount of the seat heater 1A in the tilting direction between the first extension 21b and the second extension 31b. Therefore, the seating comfort when seated in the seat 90 can be improved.

[0088] Furthermore, the third protrusion 321b and the second protrusion 222b are offset in the front-rear direction, allowing the first extension 21b and the second extension 31b to approach each other, thus enabling them to meet the passenger's right thigh 2002 (see reference). Figure 1 The corresponding position increases the area of ​​the heater section 40.

[0089] In addition, such as Figure 6 As shown, in this embodiment, the fourth protrusions 322a and 322b are opposite each other on the inner side of the second U-shaped portion 30. Therefore, the third openings 324a are also opposite each other on the inner side of the second U-shaped portion 30. Because the space between the second extensions 31a and 31b (the second connecting hole 12) is adjacent to the left and right thighs 2000 of the passenger (see reference...) Figure 1 The space between the two extensions 31a and 31b is such that there is no need to bring the second extensions 31a and 31b closer together to increase the heat generation. Therefore, the heat generation of the heater section 40 corresponding to the position of the position corresponding to the passenger's thigh 2000 is relatively small compared to the heat generation of the heater section 40 at the position corresponding to the space between the thigh 2000. Thus, with the seat heater 1A of this embodiment, the heat generated by the first heating wire 413 and the second heating wire 414 can be concentrated at the desired position.

[0090] like Figure 4 As shown, the second connecting portion 35 connects the front ends 33b, 33b of a pair of second extensions 31a, 31b. The second connecting portion 35 is disposed behind the first connecting portion 25 and extends in the left-right direction, intersecting the center line CL. Furthermore, the front end 33b corresponds to an example of the "second end" in the embodiment of the present invention.

[0091] The second connecting portion 35 includes a pair of L-shaped portions 36 and a fourth bend portion 37. The pair of L-shaped portions 36 are provided at the left and right ends of the second connecting portion 35 and have a generally L-shaped planar shape. The pair of L-shaped portions 36 are respectively connected to the front end portion 33b of the second extension portions 31a and 31b.

[0092] Between a pair of L-shaped portions 36, a fourth bend 37 extends along the left (or right). In this embodiment, the fourth bend 37 has a generally S-shaped form, thus the second connecting portion 35 in this embodiment repeatedly bends in the front-rear direction and extends towards the left and right directions of the vehicle. The fourth bend 37 includes a seventh protrusion 371 and two eighth protrusions 372.

[0093] In this embodiment, the seventh protrusion 371 is curved so that it protrudes forward when viewed from above. There is no particular limitation that the shape of the seventh protrusion 371 is the same as that of the fifth protrusion 271. However, the shape of the seventh protrusion 371 may also be different from that of the fifth protrusion 271. Furthermore, the shape of the seventh protrusion 371 may also be an arc shape (not a semicircle), a curved shape other than an arc, or a broken line shape.

[0094] On the other hand, the eighth protrusion 372 in this embodiment is curved so as to protrude rearward when viewed from above. There is no particular limitation that the shape of the eighth protrusion 372 is the same as that of the sixth protrusion 272. Furthermore, the shape of the eighth protrusion 372 may also be different from that of the sixth protrusion 272. Additionally, the shape of the eighth protrusion 372 may also be an arc shape that is not a semicircle (such as a fan shape), a curved shape other than an arc, or a broken line shape.

[0095] In this embodiment, the seventh protrusion 371 and the eighth protrusion 372 are directly connected. Alternatively, the seventh protrusion 371 may be indirectly connected to the eighth protrusion 372 via a straight section.

[0096] A first connecting hole 11 is formed between the first U-shaped portion 20 and the second U-shaped portion 30. The first connecting hole 11 is a through hole that penetrates the substrate 10 in the thickness direction (the vertical direction in the figure) and has a generally U-shaped planar shape surrounded by the first U-shaped portion 20, the second U-shaped portion 30 and the wide portion 15.

[0097] The first connecting hole 11 includes a pair of first gaps 111a and 111b and a second gap 112. The first gap 111a is formed on the left side of the center line CL between the first extension 21a and the second extension 31a. The first gap 111a extends forward. On the other hand, the first gap 111b is formed on the right side of the center line CL between the first extension 21b and the second extension 31b. The first gap 111b also extends forward.

[0098] A pair of first gaps 111a and 111b are continuously formed along the front-rear direction on the inner side of the first U-shaped portion 20. Therefore, the left and right sides of the seat heater 1A can be deformed as a whole in a way that extends and retracts in the left-right direction shown in the figure. In particular, the pair of first gaps 111a and 111b are formed at positions corresponding to the left and right thighs 2001 and 2002 of the passenger, so that when a load is applied from the thighs 2001 and 2002, they can extend and retract in the left-right direction shown in the figure.

[0099] A second gap 112 is formed between the first connecting portion 25 and the second connecting portion 35. The second gap 112 extends in the left-right direction and connects a pair of first gaps 111a and 111b.

[0100] Furthermore, a second connecting hole 12 is formed on the inner side of the second U-shaped portion 30. The second connecting hole 12 extends forward from the wide portion 15. Through this second connecting hole 12, the seat heater 1A can also deform in a way that stretches and extends in the left-right direction as shown in the figure at its center.

[0101] like Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, a heater section 40 containing a conductor circuit 41 is formed on the upper surface of the substrate 10 as described above. The heater section 40 generates heat through resistance by consuming electricity. The material constituting the heater section 40 in this embodiment is not particularly limited, and metals can be exemplified. As such a metal, there are no particular limitations, and examples include aluminum, copper, copper alloys, silver, silver alloys, or stainless steel.

[0102] The heater section 40 is not particularly limited, and can be formed, for example, by patterning the aluminum foil of the aluminum foil / PET composite film through etching or the like. This aluminum foil / PET composite film is a composite material in which the aluminum foil is bonded to a polyester film via an adhesive layer. As a specific example of such an aluminum foil / PET composite film, there is no particular limitation; Alpet (registered trademark) manufactured by PANAC Corporation can be cited as an example.

[0103] like Figure 2As shown, the conductor circuit 41 includes a first external connection portion 411, a second external connection portion 412, a first heating wire 413, and a second heating wire 414. The first external connection portion 411 is formed on the left side portion 151 of the wide portion 15 of the substrate 10. This first external connection portion 411 is electrically connected to the power supply source 80. On the other hand, the second external connection portion 412 is formed on the right side portion 152. This second external connection portion 412 is also electrically connected to the power supply source 80. There are no particular limitations; for example, the first external connection portion 411 and the second external connection portion 412 may be composed of a so-called solid pattern. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the diagram shows the case where the first external connection portion 411 is connected to the positive terminal of the power supply source 80, and the second external connection portion 412 is connected to the negative terminal of the power supply source 80, but this relationship can also be reversed. Furthermore, the power supply source 80 may be, for example, a battery mounted in a vehicle.

[0104] In addition, the first and second external connecting parts 411 and 412 are wider than the first and second heating wires 413 and 414, and their resistance is low, so they hardly generate any heat.

[0105] like Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the first heating wire 413 is a thin wire formed on the first U-shaped portion 20 and is connected to the first and second external connecting portions 411 and 412. Because the width of the first heating wire 413 is relatively thin, its resistance is high. Therefore, the first heating wire 413 generates heat through resistance by the current supplied via the first external connecting portion 411.

[0106] The second heating wire 414 is a thin wire formed on the second U-shaped portion 30 and is connected to the first and second external connecting portions 411 and 412. The width of the second heating wire 414 is set to be the same as the width of the first heating wire 413, and the second heating wire 414 generates heat through resistance by the current supplied from the first external connecting portion 411.

[0107] The first heating wire 413 is composed of a single thin wire densely packed on the first U-shaped portion 20. Without particular limitation, the first heating wire 413 is densely packed by multiple bends on the first U-shaped portion 20. More specifically, the first heating wire 413 includes a plurality of first thin wires extending along the bending direction of the first extensions 21a, 21b and arc-shaped second thin wires connecting them. The second heating wire 414 is also composed of a single thin wire formed on the second U-shaped portion 30, and is similarly densely packed with the first heating wire 413.

[0108] Furthermore, the heating structure of the heater section 40 is not limited to the structure described above. For example, it may be equipped with a high resistivity body made of carbon-based materials or polymer-based materials and a power supply wiring for supplying power to the high resistivity body instead of the first and second heating wires 413 and 414.

[0109] like Figure 3 As shown, an insulating resist layer 50 is formed on the substrate 10 to cover the heater section 40. This insulating resist layer 50 protects the heater section 40. Examples of materials constituting the insulating resist layer 50 include resin resists, such as epoxy resists and polyester resists. The insulating resist layer 50 can be formed by coating and curing such a resin resist.

[0110] An adhesive layer 60 is formed on the lower surface of the substrate 10. The material constituting the adhesive layer 60 is not particularly limited, and examples include hot melt adhesives. Examples of hot melt adhesives include polyurethane-based hot melt adhesives.

[0111] like Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the lower surface of the substrate 10 is adhered to the substrate holding portion 70 via the adhesive layer 60. The substrate holding portion 70 holds the substrate 10. Examples of the substrate holding portion 70 include non-woven fabrics and sheets of foamed resin. Examples of non-woven fabrics include polyester and felt, and examples of sheets of foamed resin include sheets of polyurethane foam. In particular, since the sheets of foamed resin are soft, the softness of the seat heater 1A can be improved.

[0112] In addition, to improve the ventilation of the seat heater 1A, a slit or through hole may be formed in the substrate holding portion 70. The slit or through hole may be configured to avoid the substrate 10, or it may be configured to cross the substrate 10.

[0113] The seat heater 1A in this embodiment, as described above, includes a first U-shaped portion 20 and a second U-shaped portion 30, which are separate. Specifically, a first connecting hole 11 is formed between the first U-shaped portion 20 and the second U-shaped portion 30. Furthermore, the first and second extensions 21a, 21b, 31a, and 31b of the first and second U-shaped portions 20 and 30 bend in the left-right direction and extend in the front-back direction, thus the seat heater 1A is easily deformable in any direction. Therefore, the seat heater 1A is less prone to restricting deformation in a specific direction, thereby improving seating comfort.

[0114] Furthermore, the seat heater 1A in this embodiment includes first and second connecting portions 25 and 35. Therefore, even when the passenger sits with their legs crossed in the seat 90, or in other positions such as leaning or shifting their body to the side, the legs can be heated. In addition, the legs have less fat than the buttocks and other parts of the body, making them more susceptible to warmth. Therefore, the seat heater 1A can accommodate various sitting postures to keep the passenger warm.

[0115] Furthermore, since the first and second connecting portions 25 and 35 are present on the front side, heat is less likely to escape forward compared to seat heaters without the first and second connecting portions, thus enabling efficient warming of passengers. Therefore, the seat heater 1A of this embodiment can achieve energy savings.

[0116] <Second Implementation Method> The main difference between the seat heater 1B in the second embodiment and the first embodiment is that it also includes connecting portions 16a and 16b that connect the first U-shaped portion 20 and the second U-shaped portion 30. Hereinafter, only the differences between the seat heater 1B of the second embodiment and the first embodiment will be described; parts with the same structure as those in the first embodiment will be labeled with the same reference numerals and their descriptions will be omitted.

[0117] Figure 7 This is a top view showing the seat heater 1B according to the second embodiment. (See attached image.) Figure 7 As shown, the substrate 10 of the second embodiment also includes connecting portions 16a and 16b that connect the first U-shaped portion 20 and the second U-shaped portion 30. Furthermore, the aforementioned first heating wire 413 and second heating wire 414 are also formed separately on the connecting portions 16a and 16b.

[0118] Figure 8 This is a top view of a seat 90 in which the seat heater 1B of the second embodiment is installed. When the seat heater 1B is installed on the seat 90, the connecting parts 16a and 16b are fixed inside the hanging groove 902. The connecting parts 16a and 16b are formed in this way so that the seat heater 1B can be easily installed on the seat 90.

[0119] Figure 9 (a) is along Figure 8 Cross-sectional view of line IXa-IXa. Figure 9 (b) is along Figure 8 A cross-sectional view of the IXb-IXb line. Additionally, in Figure 9 (a) and Figure 9 In (b), only the substrate 10 and the seat 90 are shown for ease of illustration.

[0120] like Figure 9 (a) and Figure 9 As shown in (b), the hanging groove 902 is a bottomed groove formed on the seat surface of the seat 90. In this embodiment, the hanging groove 902 extends along the left-right direction of the vehicle and is recessed towards the lower part of the vehicle. Furthermore, the extending direction of the hanging groove 902 can also be a direction other than the left-right direction.

[0121] The connecting portion 16a of the base material 10 is housed inside the hanging groove 902 in a downward-curved state. This curved connecting portion 16a is fixed to the seat 90 by a fixing clamp (not shown). Thus, the seat 90 and the seat heater 1B are fixed to each other. The connecting portion 16b is also fixed to the seat 90 inside the hanging groove 902 by a fixing clamp (not shown).

[0122] In the seat heater 1B described above, the base material 10 also includes a first U-shaped portion 20 and a second U-shaped portion 30 disposed on its inner side, thus most of the first U-shaped portion 20 is separated from most of the second U-shaped portion 30. Furthermore, the first and second extensions 21a, 21b, 31a, 31b of the first and second U-shaped portions 20 and 30 are bent in the left-right direction and extend in the front-back direction. Therefore, similar to the seat heater 1B, the seat heater 1B does not easily restrict deformation in a specific direction, thus improving the seating comfort.

[0123] <Third Implementation Method> The main differences between the seat heater 1C in the third embodiment and the first embodiment are that the second bends 32a and 32b are designed so that they do not overlap with the sensor portion 3000a of the pressure sensor 3000 when viewed from above, and the second extensions 31a and 31 have expansion portions 38a and 38b that connect to the second bends 32a and 32b. Hereinafter, only the differences between the circuit board assembly of the third embodiment and the first embodiment will be described; parts with the same structure as those in the first embodiment will be labeled with the same reference numerals and their descriptions will be omitted.

[0124] Figure 10 This is an enlarged top view showing the seat heater 1C according to the third embodiment of the present invention. Figure 11 It is along Figure 10 A cross-sectional view of the XI-XI line.

[0125] like Figure 10 and Figure 11 As shown, in this embodiment, a pressure sensor 3000 is assembled on the substrate holding portion 70 of the seat heater 1C. This pressure sensor 3000 is not particularly limited; it is a seating sensor (a so-called seatbelt reminder sensor) capable of determining whether a passenger is seated by detecting pressure. The pressure sensor 3000 is not particularly limited and is supplied by a power source 80 (see reference 80). Figure 2 It operates using electricity.

[0126] In this embodiment, the sensor portion 3000a of the pressure sensor 3000 is disposed at the hip 1000 (see reference). Figure 1 The sensor part 3000a is positioned from the center of the left and right thighs 2001 and 2002 to the rear side. Furthermore, the sensor part 3000a is not specifically defined and is disposed inside the second bending portions 32a and 32b. That is, the second bending portions 32a and 32b are bent in a manner that surrounds the sensor part 3000a of the pressure-sensitive sensor 3000, and do not overlap with the sensor part 3000a when viewed from above.

[0127] like Figure 11 As shown, the pressure sensor 3000 includes an upper substrate 3001, a lower substrate 3002, an upper electrode 3003, a lower electrode 3004, and a spacer 3005.

[0128] The upper substrate 3001 and the lower substrate 3002 are sheet-like resin components, such as those made of flexible insulating materials like polyethylene terephthalate or polyethylene naphthalate. The lower substrate 3002 is bonded to the substrate holding portion 70 by an adhesive (not shown) or the like.

[0129] An upper electrode 3003 is formed on the lower surface of the upper substrate 3001. This upper electrode 3003 is formed by printing conductive pastes such as silver paste, copper paste, and carbon paste onto the lower surface of the upper substrate 3001 and then curing it. A lower electrode 3004 is formed on the upper surface of the lower substrate 3002. This lower electrode 3004 is also formed by printing conductive pastes such as silver paste, copper paste, and carbon paste onto the upper surface of the lower substrate 3002 and then curing it.

[0130] Examples of printing methods for forming the upper electrode 3003 and the lower electrode 3004 include screen printing, gravure offset printing, and inkjet printing. Furthermore, the upper electrode 3003 and the lower electrode 3004 may also be composed of multiple layers.

[0131] A spacer 3005 is located between the upper substrate 3001 and the lower substrate 3002, defining the distance between them. The spacer 3005 includes an opening 3006 for receiving the upper electrode 3003 and the lower electrode 3004, and surrounds the upper electrode 3003 and the lower electrode 3004.

[0132] In this pressure-sensitive sensor 3000, when a load is applied to the sensor section 3000a from above, the upper electrode 3003 and the lower electrode 3004 become electrically connected. By detecting this electrical connection, the passenger's seating status can be detected.

[0133] Thus, when the pressure sensor is located in the seat, to avoid overlap between the second bend and the sensor section, the size of the space inside the second bend is sometimes set to be larger. As a result, the area occupied by the heating element of the seat heater per unit area is sometimes reduced.

[0134] In contrast, Figure 10 In the seat heater 1C of this embodiment shown, since the second extensions 31a and 31b have expansion portions 38a and 38b, even if the space S inside the second bends 32a and 32b becomes larger, the area that can be heated can be sufficiently increased.

[0135] In this embodiment, the expansion portion 325a extends outward from the fourth protrusion 322a of the second bend portion 32a and is formed on the side opposite to the third protrusion 321a relative to the sensor portion 3000a. The root of the expansion portion 325 is connected to the fourth protrusion 322a, while the front end of the expansion portion 325 is not connected to other parts of the second bend portion 32a.

[0136] In this way, one end of the extension 325 becomes a fixed end and the other end becomes a free end, thereby increasing the area that can be heated while maintaining the elasticity of the second extension 31a as described above. In addition, by making one end of the extension 325a a free end, it is less likely to cause discomfort to seated passengers.

[0137] Additionally, although not shown in detail, an expansion portion 325a is also formed on the front side of the third protrusion 321a of the second bend portion 32a. This expansion portion 325a extends in a manner that protrudes from the third protrusion 321a and is formed on the side opposite to the fourth protrusion 322a relative to the sensor portion 3000a.

[0138] Furthermore, the same extension is also formed in the second extension 31b. The expansion portion 325b of the second bend 32b extends from the third protrusion 321b and is formed on the side opposite to the fourth protrusion 322b relative to the sensor portion 3000a. Additionally, the expansion portion 325b is also formed on the front side of the fourth protrusion 322b of the second bend 32b. This expansion portion 325b extends from the fourth protrusion 322b and is formed on the side opposite to the third protrusion 321b relative to the sensor portion 3000a. The root of this expansion portion 325b is a fixed end, and the front end is a free end. Therefore, in this embodiment, the area that can be heated can be increased while maintaining the elasticity of the second extension 31a. Furthermore, it is less likely to cause discomfort to seated passengers.

[0139] Furthermore, the embodiments described above are provided for ease of understanding of the present invention and are not intended to limit the present invention. Therefore, the essence of the elements disclosed in the above embodiments is that they also include all design modifications and equivalents that fall within the technical scope of the present invention.

[0140] For example, a cover film can be laminated onto the insulating resist layer 50. PET can be used as an example of a cover film. Laminating the cover film improves the durability of the seat heaters 1A-1C. Furthermore, by laminating the cover film, the central surface of the seat heaters 1A-1C is positioned at the heater section 40, thus suppressing deformation of the heater section 40 when the seat heaters 1A-1C are bent. This, in turn, suppresses fatigue failure of the first heating wire 413 and the second heating wire 414.

[0141] In this embodiment, the seat heaters 1A-1C are mounted on the seat surface 901 of the seat 90 such that the substrate holding portion 70 contacts the seat surface 901 of the seat 90, but this is not a limitation. The seat heaters 1A-1C may also be mounted on the seat surface 901 with the substrate holding portion 70 at the top. As a result, the thickness of the filler of the decorative cover can be reduced, or the filler can be omitted, thereby reducing costs.

[0142] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures 1A~1C…Seat heaters 10…substrate 11…First connecting hole 111a, 111b... First gap 112…Second gap 12…Second connecting hole 15…Wide section 151…Left side 152…Right side 16…Connecting Section 20…First U-shaped part 21a, 21b… First extension 22a, 22b... First Twist Section 221a, 221b...first convex portion 222a, 222b... second convex portion 223a, 223b... First straight section 224a…First opening 224b…Second opening 23a…rear end 23b…front end 25…First Linkage Section 26…L-shaped radical 27…Third Twist 271…fifth convex part 272…The sixth convex part 273…Third straight section 30…Second U-shaped part 31a, 31b... Second extension 32a, 32b... Second Twist 321a, 321b...the third convex part 322a, 322b...the fourth convex part 323a, 323b... Second straight section 324a… Third opening 324b… Fourth opening 325a, 325b... Expansion section 33a…rear end 33b…front end 35…Second Link 36…L radical 37…Fourth Twist Section 371…The seventh convex part 372…The eighth convex part 40…Heater Section 41…Conductor Circuit 411, 412… First and second external connecting parts 413…First Electric Heating Line 414…Second heating wire 50… Insulating and resisting layer 60… Adhesive layer 70…Substrate holding section 80…Power supply source 90… seats 901…seating surface 902…Hanging slot 1000…buttocks 2000… Thigh 2001…left thigh 2002… right thigh 3000… Pressure Sensitive Sensor 3001… Upper substrate 3002… Lower substrate 3003… Upper electrode 3004…lower electrode 3005…spacer

Claims

1. A seat heater, comprising: The substrate is flexible; and The heater section is formed on the substrate. in, The substrate comprises: The first U-shaped part has a roughly U-shaped planar shape; and The second U-shaped portion is located inside the first U-shaped portion and has a roughly U-shaped planar shape. The first U-shaped part has: A pair of first extensions extending along a first direction; and A first connecting portion connects the first ends of the pair of first extensions to each other. The second U-shaped part has: A pair of second extensions, which extend substantially parallel to the first extension; and The second connecting portion connects the second ends of the pair of second extensions to each other. The first extension includes a plurality of first bends arranged along the first direction. The second extension includes a plurality of second bends arranged along the first direction. The first bend portion includes: The first protrusion curves outward toward the seat heater when viewed from above; and The second protrusion curves in a manner that, when viewed from above, extends inward toward the seat heater. The second bend has: The third protrusion curves outward when viewed from above; and The fourth protrusion curves in a manner that protrudes inward when viewed from above.

2. The seat heater according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first connecting portion includes a plurality of third bends arranged along a second direction different from the first direction. The third bend portion includes: The fifth protrusion curves outward toward the seat heater when viewed from above; and The sixth protrusion curves in a manner that, when viewed from above, protrudes toward the inside of the seat heater.

3. The seat heater according to claim 2, characterized in that, The second connecting part has a fourth bend. The fourth bend portion includes: The seventh protrusion curves outward toward the seat heater when viewed from above; and The eighth protrusion curves in a manner that, when viewed from above, protrudes toward the inside of the seat heater.

4. The seat heater according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The third protrusion is opposite to the first opening between the adjacent second protrusion.

5. The seat heater according to claim 4, characterized in that, The fourth protrusion of one of the second extensions is opposite to the fourth protrusion of the other second extension.

6. The seat heater according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that, The first to the fourth protrusions have an arc shape.

7. The seat heater according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, The first curved portion includes a first straight portion that connects the first protrusion and the second protrusion. The second curved portion includes a second straight portion that connects the third protrusion and the fourth protrusion. The length of the second straight section is longer than the length of the first straight section.

8. The seat heater according to claim 3, characterized in that, The fifth to eighth protrusions have an arc shape.

Images