Attitude detection system and attitude detection method

Abstract

To provide a posture detection system and a posture detection method for grasping a posture of a user of a cushion on which the user sits accurately and for grasping whether the user is not seated for a long time.SOLUTION: A posture detection system for detecting a posture of a user who sits on a cushion is equipped with a seat part 2 having a hip support part 4 and a waist support part 3 having a sacrum support part 11. The posture detection system includes a seat part sensor 31 attached to the seat part 2 for measuring whether a user is seated on the seat part 2, a sacrum support part sensor 32 attached to the sacrum support part 11 for measuring the posture of the user seated on the seat part 2, a posture determination part for determining the posture of the user from a result of the measurement by the sacrum support part sensor 32, and an alarm part for outputting an alarm when the posture of the user is determined not to be desirable by the posture determination part.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a posture detection system and a posture detection method for detecting the posture of a user sitting on a cushion. [Background technology]

[0002] Japanese Patent Laid-Open Publication No. 6-86725 describes a seat device that includes a seat cushion that supports the buttocks of a seated occupant with a seat surface, a seat back that supports the back of the seated occupant with a support surface, an actuator that drives and changes the shape of the support surface of the seat back, and detection means that extracts elements related to the physical characteristics of the seated occupant's upper body.

[0003] The actuator is an air bag provided inside the seat back. The detection means is a seat pressure sensor provided inside the seat cushion and inside the seat back. The detection means extracts the physique characteristics of the upper body of the seated occupant from the detection values ​​of each seat pressure sensor. The actuator inflates the air bag according to the extracted physique characteristics to control the posture of the seated occupant.

[0004] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2019-151251 and Japanese Patent Publication No. 2021-112665 ​​each describe a seat equipped with a first cushion sensor positioned at a position corresponding to the buttocks of the seated occupant and a second cushion sensor positioned further forward of the seated occupant than the first cushion sensor.

[0005] The seat further includes a first back sensor disposed at a lower portion of the seat back, a second back sensor disposed above the first back sensor, and a control unit, wherein the control unit identifies the movement of the seated occupant based on outputs of at least two of the first cushion sensor, the second cushion sensor, the first back sensor, and the second back sensor. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0006] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 6-86725 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2019-151251 [Patent Document 3] Patent Publication No. 2021-112665 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0007] For example, in an office environment, people may work for long periods of time while sitting on a cushion placed on the seat of a chair. In such cases, if the user's posture while sitting on the cushion becomes poor, the user may injure themselves. Therefore, it is necessary to be able to detect the posture of the user sitting on the cushion with high accuracy. Furthermore, sitting for long periods of time can cause problems such as poor blood circulation in the legs and lower back, resulting in a decrease in muscle strength. Therefore, it is necessary to be able to determine whether the user has been sitting on the cushion for a long period of time.

[0008] The present disclosure aims to provide a posture detection system and posture detection method that can accurately determine the posture of a user of a seated cushion and determine whether the user has been sitting on the cushion for a long period of time. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] The posture detection system according to the present disclosure is (1) a posture detection system that detects the posture of a user seated on a cushion that includes a seat having a buttocks support portion on which the user's buttocks are placed, and a lumbar support portion having a sacrum support portion that supports the user's sacrum from behind. The posture detection system includes a seat sensor attached to the seat and that measures whether the user is seated on the seat, a sacrum support sensor attached to the sacrum support portion and that measures the posture of the user seated on the seat, a posture determination unit that determines the posture of the user from the results measured by the sacrum support sensor, and an alarm unit that outputs an alarm when the posture determination unit determines that the user's posture is not good. The seating section sensor and the sacral support section sensor are attached to the cushion, and the cushion is provided with a fabric covering at least a part of the core material of the cushion, and the fabric is fixed to the core material so as to cover only the seating section and the sacral support section. .

[0010] In this posture detection system, the cushion includes a seating portion having a buttocks support portion that supports the user's buttocks, and a sacrum support portion that supports the user's sacrum from behind. The posture detection system includes a seating portion sensor that determines whether the user is seated on the seating portion of the cushion. By measuring whether the seating portion sensor determines whether the user is seated on the seating portion, the amount of time the user has been seated on the seating portion can be calculated. Therefore, the user can know whether they have been sitting for a long time, thereby avoiding problems such as poor blood circulation in the legs and lower back and decreased muscle strength. The posture detection system includes a sacrum support portion sensor that is provided on the sacrum support portion and measures the posture of the user seated on the cushion. The sacrum is a part that protrudes from the user's back. Therefore, by providing the sacrum support portion sensor that supports the sacrum, the user's posture can be measured with high accuracy. The posture detection system also includes an alarm unit that outputs an alarm when the posture determination unit determines that the posture is not good. Therefore, by the alarm unit outputting an alarm when the user's posture is poor, the user can know that his or her posture is poor, thereby reducing the possibility of injury to the body due to poor posture.

[0011] (2) In (1) above, the sacral support sensor may measure whether the user's sacrum is in contact with the sacral support sensor. The posture determination unit may determine that the user's posture is hunched when the user's sacrum is not in contact with the sacral support sensor. In this case, the posture determination unit determines that the user is hunched when the user leans forward and the sacrum is not in contact with the sacral support sensor. Therefore, whether the user is hunched is determined based on whether or not the user is in contact with the sacral support sensor, so that the user's posture can be grasped with high accuracy and hunched posture can be suppressed.

[0012] (3) In (1) or (2) above, the sacral support sensor may measure the load on the sacrum of the user's sacrum support sensor. The posture determination unit may determine that the user's posture is leaning back too much when the load measured by the sacral support sensor is equal to or greater than a certain value. In this case, the posture determination unit determines that the user is leaning back too much when the load on the sacral support sensor is equal to or greater than the certain value. Therefore, because it is determined whether or not the user is leaning back too much based on the load on the sacral support sensor, it is possible to prevent a decrease in abdominal muscle strength due to leaning back too much.

[0013] (4) In any of the above (1) to (3), the seating section may have a pair of thigh support sections aligned in the left-right direction as seen from a user seated on the seating section. The posture detection system may further include a pair of thigh support sensors attached to the pair of thigh support sections, respectively, for measuring the load on the thighs of the user seated on the seating section. In this case, the pair of thigh support sensors measure the load on each of the user's left and right thighs, thereby making it possible to grasp the balance between the left and right thighs. Furthermore, when one of the pair of thigh support sensors detects a load and the other of the pair of thigh support sensors does not, it can be determined that the user may have crossed their legs. Therefore, the posture of the user sitting on the cushion can be grasped with greater accuracy.

[0014] (5) In any of the above (1) to (4), the posture detection system may include a fabric to which the seating sensor and the sacral support sensor are attached and which covers at least a portion of the core material of the cushion. In this case, the seating sensor and the sacral support sensor are attached to the fabric, and at least a portion of the core material is covered by this fabric. Therefore, the seating sensor and the sacral support sensor can be attached to an existing cushion by covering the core material of the cushion with the fabric, making it easy to arrange the seating sensor and the sacral support sensor on the existing cushion.

[0015] (6) In the above (5), the posture detection system may include an outer fabric covering the core material, and the fabric may be an inner fabric covered by the outer fabric. In this case, the outer fabric is provided outside the inner fabric to which the seating portion sensor and the sacral support portion sensor are attached. Therefore, the outer fabric can be removed and washed, making the cushion more hygienic and allowing the cushion to be used for a longer period of time.

[0016] The posture detection method according to the present disclosure is (7) a posture detection method for detecting the posture of a user seated on a cushion including a seat having a buttocks support portion on which the user's buttocks are placed, and a lumbar support portion having a sacrum support portion that supports the user's sacrum from behind, the posture detection method including the steps of: measuring whether the user is seated on the seat using a seat sensor attached to the seat; measuring the posture of the user seated on the seat using a sacrum support sensor attached to the sacrum support portion; determining the posture of the user from the results of measurement by the sacrum support sensor; and outputting an alarm when it is determined in the determining step that the user's posture is not good. The seating section sensor and the sacral support section sensor are attached to the cushion, and the cushion is provided with a fabric covering at least a part of the core material of the cushion, and the fabric is fixed to the core material so as to cover only the seating section and the sacral support section. .

[0017] This posture detection method includes a step of measuring whether a user is seated on the seat of a cushion. By using a seat sensor to measure whether the user is seated on the seat, the amount of time the user has been seated on the seat can be calculated, making it possible to determine whether the user has been sitting for a long period of time. This avoids problems such as poor circulation in the legs and lower back and muscle weakness. The posture detection method also includes a step of measuring the posture of a user seated on a cushion using a sacral support sensor. The sacrum is a part that protrudes from the user's back. Therefore, the sacral support sensor, which is provided in a sacral support section that supports the sacrum, measures the posture, thereby enabling highly accurate measurement of the user's posture. Furthermore, the posture detection system also includes a step of outputting an alarm when the posture determination unit determines that the posture is poor. Therefore, by having the alarm unit output an alarm when the posture is poor, the user can recognize that their posture is poor, thereby reducing the possibility of physical injury due to poor posture. [Effects of the Invention]

[0018] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to grasp with high accuracy the posture of a user of a cushion on which the user sits, and to determine whether the user has been sitting for a long period of time. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0019] [Figure 1] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing a core material of a cushion used in the posture detection system according to the embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a plan view showing the core material of FIG. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a bottom view showing the core material of FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA in FIG. 2. [Figure 5] FIG. 2 is a side view showing the core material of FIG. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view schematically illustrating a seating sensor, a sacral support sensor, a thigh support sensor, and fabric of the posture detection system according to the embodiment. [Figure 7]FIG. 1 is a functional block diagram of a posture detection system according to an embodiment. [Figure 8] 8 is a diagram showing an example of a display screen of a display unit of the posture detection system of FIG. 7. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a seating portion sensor, a sacral support portion sensor, a thigh support portion sensor, and fabric of a posture detection system according to a modified example. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0020] Hereinafter, embodiments of the attitude detection system and attitude detection method according to the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. In the description of the drawings, the same or corresponding elements are designated by the same reference numerals, and duplicate explanations will be omitted as appropriate. In addition, the drawings may be partially simplified or exaggerated to facilitate understanding, and the dimensional ratios and the like are not limited to those shown in the drawings.

[0021] In an embodiment, the posture detection system detects the posture of a user sitting on a cushion. The cushion is made of a flexible material. "Flexible material" refers to a cushioning material that deforms when a body is placed on it and receives a load. The cushion includes a seating portion having a buttocks support portion on which the user's buttocks are placed, and a lumbar support portion having a sacrum support portion that supports the user's sacrum from behind.

[0022] "User" refers to a user of the cushion, for example, a person sitting on the cushion. "Buttocks" refers to the protruding part of the lower back of the body, and is the part of the body located below the waist and above the thighs. "Sitting" refers to sitting on the cushion. "Seating section" refers to the part of the cushion that the buttocks come into contact with when sitting on the cushion. "Thighs" refers to the thighs from the base of the legs to the knees. The buttock support section has, for example, a pair of ischium support sections. "Ischisis" refers to the part of the pelvis that is located at the lowest point when the user is sitting on the seat.

[0023] "Posture" refers to the physical condition of a user seated on a cushion. The posture detection system according to the embodiment outputs an alarm when the user's posture is not good. "Poor posture" refers to, for example, at least one of the following: a state in which the user's back is hunched while seated on the seating part, a state in which the user's back is leaning back too far while seated on the seating part, and a state in which the user's legs are crossed.

[0024] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a core 1 of a cushion 100 (see FIG. 6) according to this embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1, the core 1 includes a seating portion 2 extending horizontally and a lumbar support portion 3 extending upward from the seating portion 2. The core 1 is made of a flexible material. For example, the core 1 is made of urethane foam.

[0025] As an example, the core 1 is formed by urethane molding. When the core 1 is made of urethane foam and formed by urethane molding, the core 1 made of a flexible material can be easily manufactured. The core 1 is used, for example, housed in the fabric 20 of the cushion 100 (see FIG. 6).

[0026] The flexible material includes, for example, a thermoplastic elastomer. The flexible material may be a material that has enough elasticity to deform in response to the load when a body is placed on it. The flexible material may be a resin (for example, polypropylene, polyester, or polyethylene) that deforms when a body is placed on it and receives the load. The type of flexible material can be changed as appropriate.

[0027] The seating portion 2 extends in a first direction D1 and a second direction D2 intersecting the first direction D1. The first direction D1 is the front-to-back direction when viewed from a user seated on the seating portion 2, and the second direction D2 is the left-to-right direction when viewed from a user seated on the seating portion 2. The seating portion 2 has a thickness in a third direction D3 intersecting both the first direction D1 and the second direction D2. For example, the third direction D3 is the vertical direction.

[0028] Hereinafter, the forward direction as seen by a user seated on the seating section 2 may be referred to as the "front," "front side," or "forward," and the opposite direction to the forward direction may be referred to as the "rear," "rear side," or "rearward." However, these directions are used for convenience of explanation and do not limit the position or orientation of each part.

[0029] Fig. 2 is a plan view of the core material 1. As shown in Figs. 1 and 2, the seating portion 2 has a buttocks support portion 4 on which the user's buttocks are placed, and a thigh support portion 5 on which the user's thighs are placed. The buttocks support portion 4 and the thigh support portion 5 are arranged side by side in the first direction D1. The buttocks support portion 4 has a pair of ischium support portions 6 that support the ischium of the user seated on the seating portion 2.

[0030] For example, the seating portion 2 has an air vent 2b. The air vent 2b penetrates downward from the upper surface 4b of the buttocks support portion 4 or the upper surface of the thigh support portion 5. The upper end of the inner wall defining the air vent 2b may be rounded and chamfered. In a plan view, the multiple air vents 2b are arranged in a line from rear to front.

[0031] For example, in a plan view (plan view when the lumbar support section 3 is oriented to be located above the seat section 2), multiple (for example, six) air vents 2b may be arranged on each side (left and right sides) in the second direction D2. For example, three air vents 2b are arranged on each side in the second direction D2.

[0032] For example, two ventilation holes 2b are aligned along the second direction D2, and the distance between the two ventilation holes 2b aligned along the second direction D2 increases from the buttocks support section 4 toward the thigh support section 5 (toward the front). As an example, the multiple ventilation holes 2b are arranged so as to form a V-shape in a plan view.

[0033] For example, in the core material 1, the ischial support portion 6 (e.g., through-hole 6c described below) is formed by urethane molding, and the air vents 2b are formed by punching. In this case, the part of the mold used to manufacture the core material 1 that forms the air vents 2b is unnecessary, so the shape of the mold can be simplified. Furthermore, when molding liquid urethane in the mold, an escape route for the air in the liquid urethane can be secured, allowing the core material 1 to have a clean finish.

[0034] The ischial support portion 6 is formed on the upper surface 4b of the buttocks support portion 4 and is recessed relative to the upper surface 4b. The buttocks support portion 4 has a pair of ischial support portions 6 aligned along the second direction D2. The ischial support portion 6 has a recess 6b recessed from the upper surface 4b of the buttocks support portion 4. The shape of the ischial support portion 6 in a plan view has a major axis and a minor axis. For example, the shape of the ischial support portion 6 in a plan view is an oval shape (one example is an ellipse). However, the shape of the ischial support portion 6 in a plan view is not limited to an oval shape or an ellipse, and may be a rectangle, a rectangle with rounded corners, a diamond shape, or a diamond shape with rounded corners, and can be modified as appropriate.

[0035] An extension line L1 of the long axis of one of the pair of ischial support portions 6 and an extension line L2 of the long axis of the other of the pair of ischial support portions 6 intersect with each other. The intersection angle θ1 between the extension line L1 and the extension line L2 is, for example, 40° or more and 150° or less. The intersection angle θ1 may be 50° or more, 60° or more, 75° or more, or 90° or more. The intersection angle θ1 may also be 135° or less, 120° or less, or 110° or less. For example, the intersection angle θ1 is 100°.

[0036] The intersection P between the extension lines L1 and L2 is located closer to the thigh support section 5 (closer to the front) than the pair of ischial support sections 6. The intersection P is located closer to the thigh support section 5 than the center of each ischial support section 6 in a plan view. The intersection P is located on the opposite side of the lumbar support section 3 from the pair of ischial support sections 6. As a result, the pair of ischial support sections 6 have an inverted V shape in a plan view (plan view when the lumbar support section 3 is oriented to be located above the seating section 2).

[0037] The distance between the centers of the pair of ischial support portions 6 (the center-to-center distance of the pair of ischial support portions 6) is, for example, 7 cm or more and 15 cm or less. As an example, this distance is 10 cm. The distance from the lumbar support portion 3 to the center of the ischial support portion 6 is, for example, 5 cm or more and 15 cm or less. As an example, the distance from the lumbar support portion 3 to the center of the ischial support portion 6 is 10 cm. When each length and each distance is within the above value range, the user's ischial bones can be more suitably fitted to each of the pair of ischial support portions 6.

[0038] For example, each ischial support portion 6 has a through hole 6c that passes downward from the upper surface 4b of the buttock support portion 4. Each ischial support portion 6 has an inner wall that defines the through hole 6c and a tapered surface 6f that is located between the inner wall and the upper surface 4b. Figure 3 is a bottom view of the core 1. As shown in Figures 2 and 3, the area of ​​the ischial support portion 6 when viewed from above is larger than the area of ​​the ischial support portion 6 when viewed from below.

[0039] The core material 1 has a lower surface 1b that contacts a support surface S (see FIG. 4) on which the core material 1 is placed. For example, the inner wall that defines the through hole 6c connects the lower surface 1b and the tapered surface 6f to each other. At least one of the end of the inner wall of the through hole 6c on the lower surface 1b side and the end of the inner wall on the tapered surface 6f side may be rounded and R-chamfered.

[0040] The tapered surface 6f forms a recess 6b that is recessed relative to the upper surface 4b. The tapered surface 6f is inclined so that the diameter of the opening end of the tapered surface 6f increases toward the upper surface 4b. For example, the area of ​​the tapered surface 6f in a plan view is larger than the area of ​​the through hole 6c in a plan view. The tapered surface 6f may include a curved surface that is a chamfered portion so that the opening end of the tapered surface 6f is rounded.

[0041] Fig. 4 is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA in Fig. 2. As shown in Figs. 2 and 4, the seating portion 2 has an inclined surface 7 that extends obliquely from the buttocks support portion 4 toward the thigh support portion 5. For example, the seating portion 2 has a pair of inclined surfaces 7 aligned along the second direction D2. For example, the inclined surfaces 7 are linear in a cross section taken along a plane extending in the first direction D1 and the third direction D3. The inclination angle θ2 of the inclined surfaces 7 with respect to the lower surface 1b of the core material 1 is, for example, 5° or more and 15° or less.

[0042] When the inclination angle θ2 is 5° or more and 15° or less, it is possible to make it more difficult for the ischial bones of a user seated on the seating portion 2 to shift forward. Unlike the above example, the inclined surface 7 may have a curved shape in a cross section along a plane extending in the first direction D1 and the third direction D3 (for example, a curved shape that curves so that the inclination angle θ2 increases toward the thigh support portion 5).

[0043] 5 is a side view of the core material 1 as seen from the front. As shown in FIGS. 2, 4, and 5, the seating portion 2 has a pair of thigh support portions 5 aligned along the second direction D2, and a convex portion 8 located between the pair of thigh support portions 5. Each of the pair of thigh support portions 5 is located on the front side of the inclined surface 7.

[0044] The backs of the user's thighs are placed on thigh support section 5. That is, thigh support section 5 supports the backs of the user's thighs. As shown in Figs. 3 and 5, thigh support section 5 has recesses 5b recessed in the thickness direction (third direction D3) of core material 1. Recesses 5b are formed on the lower surface 1b of core material 1.

[0045] The core 1 has a pair of recesses 5b, and for example, the pair of recesses 5b are provided at positions spaced apart from each other. The depth of the recesses 5b increases with increasing distance from the lower back support 3 (towards the front). For example, the thigh support 5 has recesses 5b that define a space between the recesses 5b and the support surface S on which the core 1 is placed. As an example, the space defined between the recesses 5b and the support surface S is formed so as to expand towards the front.

[0046] The convex portions 8 indicate portions that protrude from the inclined surface 7. The width of the convex portions 8 in plan view increases toward the front. For example, the shape of the convex portions 8 in plan view is a parabola that widens toward the front. The height of the convex portions 8 increases toward the center of the core material 1 in the second direction D2.

[0047] For example, the seating portion 2 has a pair of protrusions 9 located on both ends of the inclined surface 7 in the second direction D2. The protrusions 9 are portions that connect the lower back support portion 3 and the thigh support portion 5 to each other. The protrusions 9 extend along the first direction D1. By providing the protrusions 8 and 9 described above, thigh support portions 5 are formed at positions on both sides of the protrusion 8 between the pair of protrusions 9 in the second direction D2, making it easier for the user to place their thighs on the thigh support portions 5.

[0048] The core material 1 has an inclined portion 9c that slopes from the convex portion 9 toward the lower surface 1b toward the center of the core material 1 in the second direction D2. The core material 1 has, for example, a pair of inclined portions 9c aligned along the second direction D2. As an example, the core material 1 has a boat-like shape that bulges outward as it moves away from the lower surface 1b.

[0049] The lumbar support section 3 extends upward from the end (rear end) in the first direction D1 of the seating section 2. The lumbar support section 3 has, for example, a general section 10 extending in both the second direction D2 and the third direction D3, and a sacrum support section 11 located in the center of the general section 10 in the second direction D2. The general section 10 indicates the portion of the lumbar support section 3 other than the sacrum support section 11.

[0050] As shown in Figures 2, 4, and 5, the sacral support portion 11 has a convex shape that protrudes forward. The sacral support portion 11 protrudes forward from the general portion 10. As an example, the shape of the sacral support portion 11 when viewed from the front has a major axis and a minor axis. For example, the shape of the sacral support portion 11 when viewed from the front is an oval shape (an elliptical shape, for example).

[0051] For example, the sacrum support portion 11 has a protruding surface 11d that is curved and protrudes forward. The height of the protruding surface 11d from the general portion 10 increases from the outer edge of the protruding surface 11d toward the inside of the protruding surface 11d. The sacrum support portion 11 may have a recessed portion 11f that is recessed rearward from the protruding surface 11d. The recessed portion 11f is a portion into which the sacrum of the user of the cushion 100 fits.

[0052] The recessed portion 11f extends in the second direction D2 and the third direction D3. For example, the length of the recessed portion 11f in the third direction D3 is longer than the length (width) of the recessed portion 11f in the second direction D2. The shape of the recessed portion 11f as viewed from the first direction D1 may be a groove shape (or an oval shape) extending in the third direction D3.

[0053] The recessed portion 11f includes a bottom surface 11g and an inner surface 11h that connects the bottom surface 11g and the protruding surface 11d to each other. When viewed from the first direction D1, the inner surface 11h has an annular shape that surrounds the bottom surface 11g. The inner surface 11h may include a rounded surface that connects the bottom surface 11g and the protruding surface 11d to each other.

[0054] In a plan view, the bottom surface 11g curves so as to recess rearward as it becomes farther away from the end of the recess 11f in the second direction D2. In a cross section (side cross section) perpendicular to the second direction D2, the recess 11f (bottom surface 11g) curves so as to recess rearward as it becomes farther away from the end of the recess 11f in the third direction D3.

[0055] A posture detection system 30 (see FIG. 7) according to this embodiment detects the posture of a user of the cushion 100 who is seated on the seating portion 2 of the cushion 100. The posture detection system 30 includes a seating portion sensor 31 attached to the seating portion 2, a sacral support portion sensor 32 attached to the sacral support portion 11, and a thigh support portion sensor 33 attached to the thigh support portion 5. In FIGS. 1, 2, 4, and 5, the seating portion sensor 31, sacral support portion sensor 32, and thigh support portion sensor 33 are illustrated in a simplified manner.

[0056] As an example, the core material 1 has a recess formed in the upper surface of the seating portion 2 and a recess formed in the upper surface of the thigh support portion 5, with a seating portion sensor 31 embedded in the recess of the seating portion 2 and a thigh support portion sensor 33 embedded in the recess of the thigh support portion 5. For example, a sacrum support portion sensor 32 is attached to the recess 11f of the sacrum support portion 11.

[0057] As described above, as an example, the seating portion sensor 31, the sacral support portion sensor 32, and the thigh support portion sensor 33 are directly attached to the core material 1. However, at least one of the seating portion sensor 31, the sacral support portion sensor 32, and the thigh support portion sensor 33 may be indirectly attached to the core material 1. Below, an example in which the seating portion sensor 31, the sacral support portion sensor 32, and the thigh support portion sensor 33 are indirectly attached to the core material 1 will be described.

[0058] 6 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a cushion 100 including a core material 1 and a fabric 20 covering the core material 1. In FIG. 6, the illustration of the core material 1 and the like is simplified. As described above, the cushion 100 is used with the core material 1 housed in the fabric 20. In the example of FIG. 6, the posture detection system 30 of this embodiment has a seating portion sensor 31, a sacral support portion sensor 32, and a thigh support portion sensor 33.

[0059] For example, the fabric 20 is an inner fabric to which the seating portion sensor 31, the sacral support portion sensor 32, and the thigh support portion sensor 33 are attached. That is, the fabric 20 is a sensor fabric to which the seating portion sensor 31, the sacral support portion sensor 32, and the thigh support portion sensor 33 are fixed. The cushion 100 further includes an outer fabric 22 that covers the fabric 20 as the inner fabric. The fabric 20 as the inner fabric covers, for example, only a portion of the core material 1. As a specific example, the fabric 20 is fixed to the core material 1 so as to cover only the seating portion 2 and the sacral support portion 11.

[0060] A seating portion sensor 31, a sacral support portion sensor 32, and a thigh support portion sensor 33 are fixed to the fabric 20. The seating portion sensor 31, the sacral support portion sensor 32, and the thigh support portion sensor 33 are, for example, piezoelectric sensors fixed to the fabric 20. In this case, the seating portion sensor 31, the sacral support portion sensor 32, and the thigh support portion sensor 33 each measure the pressure applied to each portion of the cushion 100 from the body of the user of the cushion 100 placed on the cushion 100.

[0061] There is no particular limitation on the type of sensor in each of the seating portion sensor 31, the sacral support portion sensor 32, and the thigh support portion sensor 33. For example, at least one of the seating portion sensor 31, the sacral support portion sensor 32, and the thigh support portion sensor 33 may be a strain sensor (or strain gauge) that measures the surface strain of the core material 1.

[0062] For example, the seating portion sensor 31, the sacral support portion sensor 32, and the thigh support portion sensor 33 may each be a thread-like sensor fixed by embroidery to the fabric 20. When the fabric 20 covers the core material 1, the seating portion sensor 31 is located on the upper surface of the seating portion 2, the sacral support portion sensor 32 is located on the sacral support portion 11, and the thigh support portion sensor 33 is located on the thigh support portion 5.

[0063] The outer fabric 22 covers the core material 1 and the fabric 20. The outer fabric 22, for example, covers the entire core material 1 and the fabric 20. The outer fabric 22 is provided, for example, to prevent the fabric 20 and the core material 1 from getting dirty. The outer fabric 22 may be detachable from the core material 1 and the fabric 20. As an example, the outer fabric 22 may have a zipper (not shown), and when the zipper is opened, the core material 1 and the fabric 20 can be freely taken in and out of the outer fabric 22. In this case, the outer fabric 22 can be removed from the core material 1 and the fabric 20 and washed.

[0064] 1 and 6, as an example, the posture detection system 30 includes two seat sensors 31 aligned along the second direction D2, one sacrum support sensor 32, and two thigh support sensors 33 aligned along the second direction D2. The seat sensors 31 are arranged around each of the pair of ischial supports 6, for example. As an example, the seat sensors 31 are arranged between the ischial supports 6 and the air vents 2b. The seat sensors 31 may also be arranged on the buttocks support 4. In this case, the seat sensors 31 measure contact of the user's buttocks with the buttocks support 4.

[0065] For example, the sacral support sensor 32 is fixed to the bottom surface 11g of the recessed portion 11f. However, the sacral support sensor 32 may also be fixed to the inner surface 11h of the recessed portion 11f, or to the protruding surface 11d of the sacral support portion 11. The sacral support sensor 32 may also be provided inside the outer edge of the sacral support portion 11 when viewed along the first direction D1. For example, the sacral support sensor 32 measures the load applied to the sacrum support portion 11 from the user's sacrum.

[0066] Each of the pair of thigh support sensors 33 is fixed to the front portion of the air vent 2b in the thigh support 5. The thigh support sensors 33 may be disposed on both sides of the protrusion 8 in the second direction D2. The thigh support sensors 33 may also be provided on the inside of the thigh support 5 when viewed in the third direction D3. For example, the thigh support sensors 33 measure the load applied to the thigh support 5 from the user's thighs.

[0067] For example, the seating sensor 31 measures whether or not a user of the cushion 100 is sitting on the seating portion 2. The seating sensor 31 measures, for example, whether or not the user's ischial bones are in contact with the seating sensor 31. Note that, although the above description has been given of an example in which the number of seating sensors 31 is two, the number of seating sensors 31 may be one or three or more and is not particularly limited.

[0068] For example, the sacral support sensor 32 detects the posture of the user of the cushion 100 sitting on the seating portion 2. The sacral support sensor 32 measures, for example, whether the user's sacrum is in contact with the sacral support sensor 32 and the load of the user's body that is in contact with the sacral support sensor 32. For example, the thigh support sensor 33 measures the load of the thighs of the user of the cushion 100 sitting on the seating portion 2.

[0069] As an example, the posture detection system 30 includes a cable 34 electrically connected to a seating portion sensor 31, a sacral support portion sensor 32, and a thigh support portion sensor 33 and extending from the fabric 20 to the outside of the fabric 20, and a communication unit 35 provided on the opposite side of the cable 34 from the fabric 20.

[0070] The communication unit 35 is, for example, a communication board that communicates measurement data from the seating sensor 31, the sacral support sensor 32, and the thigh support sensor 33. The communication unit 35 receives the measurement data from the seating sensor 31, the sacral support sensor 32, and the thigh support sensor 33 via a cable 34. Note that the cable 34 may be omitted, and the communication unit 35 may be built into the fabric 20.

[0071] Fig. 7 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of posture detection system 30. As shown in Fig. 7, posture detection system 30 includes a control unit 40 and an output unit 50. The control unit 40 is, for example, a server. The seat sensor 31, the sacrum support sensor 32, and the thigh support sensor 33 are capable of communicating with the control unit 40.

[0072] The seat sensor 31, sacral support sensor 32, and thigh support sensor 33 each transmit measurement data obtained through measurement to a control unit 40 via a communication unit 35. The control unit 40 includes a processor (e.g., a CPU) that executes an operating system and application programs, a main memory unit composed of ROM and RAM, an auxiliary memory unit composed of a hard disk or flash memory, etc., and a communication control unit composed of a network card or a wireless communication module. However, the configuration of the control unit 40 is not limited to the above and can be changed as appropriate.

[0073] Each functional element of the control unit 40 is realized by loading predetermined software into the processor or main memory and executing the software. The processor operates the above-mentioned communication control unit in accordance with the software and reads and writes data from and to the main memory or auxiliary memory. Data or databases required for processing by the control unit 40 are stored in the main memory or auxiliary memory.

[0074] The control unit 40 may be equipped with a posture detection program. The posture detection program includes, for example, a main module, a data acquisition module, an analysis module, and an output module. The main module is a module that comprehensively manages the functions of the posture detection system 30. The data acquisition module acquires measurement data from each of the seat sensor 31, the sacral support sensor 32, and the thigh support sensor 33. The calculation module performs calculations to evaluate the sitting state and posture of the user of the cushion 100 from the measurement data. The output module outputs the results calculated by the calculation module.

[0075] The functional components of the posture detection system 30 (posture detection program) function when the data acquisition module, calculation module, and output module are executed. The posture detection program may be provided by being recorded on a recording medium such as a CD-ROM, a DVD-ROM, or a semiconductor memory. Alternatively, the posture detection program may be provided via a communication network as a data signal superimposed on a carrier wave.

[0076] As an example, the posture detection system 30 has a posture data analysis tool. The posture detection system 30 uses, for example, spreadsheet software to collect, analyze, and visualize measurement data for each fixed period of time (for example, one hour or one day). For example, the posture detection system 30 visualizes data on the user's sitting time on the cushion 100, sitting frequency, and posture. In this case, the user can easily understand the sitting time, sitting frequency, and posture on the cushion 100. As a result, it is possible to encourage the user to improve their posture.

[0077] For example, the control unit 40 includes, as functional components, a seating determination unit 41 and a posture determination unit 42. The control unit 40 may further include a leg crossing determination unit 43 that determines whether or not the user seated on the seat 2 has their legs crossed. The seating determination unit 41, posture determination unit 42, and leg crossing determination unit 43 are functions that are realized by, for example, a program installed in the control unit 40.

[0078] The seating determination unit 41 determines whether or not the user is seated on the seating portion 2. The seating determination unit 41 measures the time the user is seated on the seating portion 2. The seating determination unit 41 determines whether or not the user is seated on the seating portion 2 by using measurement data from the seating portion sensor 31, for example.

[0079] For example, the seating determination unit 41 determines that the user is seated on the seat 2 when the user's body (for example, buttocks or ischial bones) is in contact with the seating sensor 31. In addition, if multiple seating sensors 31 are provided, the seating determination unit 41 may determine that the user is seated on the seat 2 when the user's body is in contact with any of the multiple seating sensors 31.

[0080] The posture determination unit 42 determines the posture of the user seated on the seating unit 2. The posture determination unit 42 determines the posture of the user from the results of measurement by the sacrum support sensor 32. For example, when the user's body (e.g., the sacrum) is not in contact with the sacrum support sensor 32, the posture determination unit 42 determines that the user's posture is shallow (slouched) and is inappropriate.

[0081] The posture determination unit 42 measures the time during which the posture is hunched. When the posture is hunched, the posture is bent forward and the sacrum does not come into contact with the sacrum support sensor 32. Therefore, the posture determination unit 42 determines that the posture is hunched when the seating determination unit 41 determines that the user is sitting on the seating unit 2 and the sacrum is not in contact with the sacrum support sensor 32.

[0082] For example, when the load measured by the sacral support sensor 32 is equal to or greater than a certain value, the posture determination unit 42 determines that the user's posture is leaning back too much. The posture determination unit 42 measures the time during which the user is leaning back too much. When the user is leaning back too much, a larger load is applied to the sacral support sensor 32 in the rearward direction than when the user is in an appropriate posture. When the sacral support sensor 32 measures this load, the posture determination unit 42 determines that the user's posture is leaning back too much and is inappropriate. For example, the sacral support sensor 32 may measure the amount of deformation (degree of collapse) of the sacral support unit 11, and the posture determination unit 42 may determine that the user is leaning back too much when the measured amount of deformation of the sacral support unit 11 is equal to or greater than a certain value.

[0083] For example, the posture determination unit 42 determines that the user's posture is appropriate when the load measured by the sacral support sensor 32 is less than a certain value. The posture determination unit 42 measures the time during which the posture is appropriate. When the posture is appropriate, the back of the user seated on the seating unit 2 extends vertically, and the sacrum support unit 11 receives an appropriate load from the sacrum. When the sacral support sensor 32 measures this appropriate load, the posture determination unit 42 determines that the posture is appropriate. As described above, the posture determination unit 42 may also determine that the posture is appropriate when the measured deformation of the sacral support unit 11 is less than a certain value.

[0084] The posture determination unit 42 may calculate the difference in the loads on the thigh support sensors 33 measured by the pair of thigh support sensors 33. In other words, the posture determination unit 42 calculates the absolute value of the difference between the load on one thigh support sensor 33 received from the left thigh and the load on the other thigh support sensor 33 received from the right thigh.

[0085] The posture determination unit 42 may determine that the left-right balance is not good and the posture is not appropriate when the calculated absolute value is equal to or greater than a certain value, and may determine that the left-right balance is good when the calculated absolute value is not equal to or greater than the certain value. In this case, it is possible to determine whether the posture of the user seated on the seating unit 2 is biased to either the left or right. For example, the posture determination unit 42 measures the time during which the left-right balance is not good.

[0086] The leg crossing determination unit 43 determines whether or not the user seated on the seating unit 2 has their legs crossed. The leg crossing determination unit 43 determines whether or not the user has their legs crossed, for example, by using measurement data from the thigh support sensor 33. The leg crossing determination unit 43 measures the time the user has their legs crossed. As a specific example, the leg crossing determination unit 43 determines that the legs are crossed when one of the pair of thigh support sensors 33 receives a load from the thigh and the other thigh support sensor 33 does not receive a load from the thigh.

[0087] However, sitting with crossed legs for a long period of time is undesirable as it may cause distortion of the pelvis. In this embodiment, the leg crossing determination unit 43 determines whether the user sitting on the seating unit 2 has crossed legs, and can notify the user that it is better not to cross their legs for a long period of time.

[0088] The output unit 50 outputs the results of the determinations made by the seating determination unit 41 and the posture determination unit 42. The output unit 50 may also output the results of the determination made by the leg crossing determination unit 43. The output unit 50 has, for example, a display unit 51 that displays the results of the determination, and an alarm unit 52 that outputs an alarm when the posture determination unit 42 determines that the posture is not appropriate (for example, when it determines that the posture is hunched, leaning too far back, or biased to the left or right).

[0089] 7 and 8, the display unit 51 displays, for example, the determination results of the seating determination unit 41, the posture determination unit 42, and the leg crossing determination unit 43 on the display of the information terminal T. The information terminal T is, for example, a mobile terminal. The "mobile terminal" refers to a portable information terminal such as a mobile phone including a smartphone, a tablet, or a laptop computer. The information terminal may be a terminal other than a mobile terminal, for example, a personal computer.

[0090] For example, the display unit 51 displays a time 51b during which the person sits on the seat 2 measured by the seating determination unit 41, and a time 51c during which the posture is appropriate measured by the posture determination unit 42. The display unit 51 may also display a time 51d during which the person is hunched over measured by the posture determination unit 42, and a time 51f during which the person is leaning back too much measured by the posture determination unit 42. The display unit 51 may also display a time 51g during which the person has poor left-right balance measured by the posture determination unit 42, and a time 51h during which the person has crossed their legs measured by the leg-crossing determination unit 43.

[0091] The display unit 51 may display at least one of the following as a time chart 51j: the time spent sitting on the seating unit 2, the time spent with proper posture, the time spent hunched, the time spent leaning back too much, the time spent with poor balance, and the time spent with crossed legs. In this case, the above-mentioned times can be grasped at a glance by simply looking at the time chart 51j. Therefore, the user can understand their own sitting habits on the cushion 100, and can prevent problems such as leg and back pain by correcting poor sitting habits.

[0092] The display unit 51 may display the determination result by the seating determination unit 41 and the determination result by the posture determination unit 42 as comments 51k. The display unit 51 may also display the determination result by the leg crossing determination unit 43 as comments 51k. Furthermore, the display unit 51 may display the determination result by the seating determination unit 41 and the determination result by the posture determination unit 42 as rankings 51p (evaluations).

[0093] Comments 51k include, for example, "You spend too much time sitting, so you should stand up and exercise a bit," "You often sit with a hunched back, so be conscious of sitting with a straight spine," "You spend a lot of time leaning back, so tighten your stomach and straighten your spine," "Be conscious of your balance when sitting," "Shorten the amount of time you cross your legs," or "You're sitting with good posture," etc. By looking at comments 51k, users can understand how sitting on cushion 100 is good for their health.

[0094] The alarm unit 52 outputs an alarm when the posture determination unit 42 determines that the posture is not appropriate. For example, the alarm unit 52 notifies the user's information terminal T of the alarm when the posture determination unit 42 determines that the posture is not appropriate. The alarm may be notified by email or by an application.

[0095] The alarm unit 52 outputs an alarm when, for example, any of the following times exceeds a certain period: sitting on the seating unit 2, slouching, leaning back too much, having poor left-right balance, or crossing legs. As an example, the alarm unit 52 may be a lamp attached to the cushion 100. In this case, the user can easily know that they have been sitting too long or their posture has been poor by looking at the lamp on the cushion 100 on which they were sitting. Furthermore, the alarm unit 52 may output a sound when any of the following times exceeds a certain period: sitting on the seating unit 2, slouching, leaning back too much, having poor left-right balance, or crossing legs.

[0096] Next, a specific example of a posture detection method according to this embodiment will be described. As one example, a method for detecting the posture of a user sitting on a cushion 100 shown in Fig. 6 will be described. For example, fabric 20 is fixed to core 1 so that the positions of seat sensor 31, sacrum support sensor 32, and thigh support sensor 33 match the positions of buttocks support section 4, sacrum support section 11, and thigh support section 5, respectively. Then, core 1 and fabric 20 are housed inside outer fabric 22.

[0097] Thereafter, the seating sensor 31 attached to the seating portion 2 measures whether or not the user is seated on the seating portion 2 (a process in which the seating sensor measures). For example, the seating sensor 31 measures whether or not the buttocks are in contact with the seating portion sensor 31, and the seating determination unit 41 determines whether or not the user is seated on the seating portion 2.

[0098] Furthermore, the sacral support sensor 32 measures the posture of the user seated on the seating unit 2 (a step of measuring by the sacral support sensor). The sacral support sensor 32 measures whether the sacrum is in contact with the sacral support sensor 32 and the load from the sacrum on the sacral support sensor 32. For example, the posture determination unit 42 determines that the user has a hunched back when the sacrum is not in contact with the sacral support sensor 32, determines that the user is leaning back too much when the load on the sacral support sensor 32 is equal to or greater than a certain value, and determines that the posture is appropriate when the load on the sacral support sensor 32 is less than the certain value (a step of determining). Furthermore, a pair of thigh support sensors 33 may measure the load from the thighs, and the posture determination unit 42 may determine whether the balance between the left and right sides is appropriate. Furthermore, the leg crossing determination unit 43 may determine whether the user has crossed legs based on the measurement results of the pair of thigh support sensors 33.

[0099] When the posture determination unit 42 determines that the posture of the user is good, for example, the display unit 51 displays that the posture of the user is correct, and the series of steps is completed. On the other hand, when the posture determination unit 42 determines that the posture of the user is not good, the alarm unit 52 outputs an alarm (step of outputting an alarm). Specifically, the alarm unit 52 may notify the information terminal T that the posture is not appropriate, or may cause a lamp on the cushion 100 to light up. Alternatively, the alarm unit 52 may notify the user that the posture is not appropriate by vibration. In this case, the alarm unit 52, for example, vibrates the cushion 100 on which the user is sitting. After the alarm unit 52 has finished notifying, the series of steps of the posture detection method is completed.

[0100] Next, the effects obtained from the posture detection system 30 and posture detection method according to this embodiment will be described in more detail. In the posture detection system 30 and posture detection method according to this embodiment, the cushion 100 includes a seating section 2 having a buttocks support section 4 that supports the buttocks of the user, and a sacrum support section 11 that supports the user's sacrum from behind. The posture detection system 30 includes a seating section sensor 31 that measures whether or not the user is seated on the seating section 2 of the cushion 100. By using the seating section sensor 31 to measure whether or not the user is seated on the seating section 2, the amount of time the user is seated on the seating section 2 can be calculated.

[0101] Therefore, the user can know if they have not been sitting for a long time, thereby avoiding problems such as poor blood circulation in the legs and hips and weakened muscles. The posture detection system 30 is provided in the sacrum support part 11 and includes a sacrum support part sensor 32 that measures the posture of the user sitting on the cushion 100. The sacrum is a part that protrudes from the user's back. Therefore, by providing the sacrum support part sensor 32 in the sacrum support part 11 that supports the sacrum, the posture of the user can be measured with high accuracy.

[0102] Furthermore, the posture detection system 30 includes an alarm unit 52 that outputs an alarm when the posture determination unit 42 determines that the posture is not good. Therefore, by the alarm unit 52 outputting an alarm when the posture is bad, the user can know that their posture is bad, and the possibility of physical injury due to bad posture can be reduced.

[0103] In this embodiment, the sacrum support sensor 32 measures whether or not the user's sacrum is in contact with the sacrum support sensor 32. The posture determination unit 42 determines that the user's posture is hunched when the user's sacrum is not in contact with the sacrum support sensor 32. Therefore, when the user leans forward and the sacrum is not in contact with the sacrum support sensor 32, the posture determination unit 42 determines that the user is hunched. Therefore, because whether or not the user is hunched is determined based on whether or not the user is in contact with the sacrum support sensor 32, the user's posture can be grasped with high accuracy and hunched posture can be suppressed.

[0104] In this embodiment, the sacral support sensor 32 measures the load on the user's sacrum on the sacral support sensor 32. The posture determination unit 42 determines that the user's posture is leaning back too much when the load measured by the sacral support sensor 32 is equal to or greater than a certain value. Therefore, the posture determination unit 42 determines that the user is leaning back too much when the load on the sacral support sensor 32 is equal to or greater than a certain value. Therefore, because it is determined whether or not the user is leaning back too much based on the load on the sacral support sensor 32, it is possible to prevent a decrease in abdominal muscle strength due to leaning back too much.

[0105] In this embodiment, the seating unit 2 has a pair of thigh support parts 5 aligned in the left-right direction (second direction D2) as seen from a user seated on the seating unit 2. The posture detection system 30 further includes a pair of thigh support sensors 33 attached to each of the pair of thigh support parts 5, which measure the load on the thighs of the user seated on the seating unit 2. Therefore, by having each of the pair of thigh support sensors 33 measure the load on each of the user's left and right thighs, the balance between the left and right thighs can be determined. Furthermore, when one of the pair of thigh support sensors 33 detects a load and the other of the pair of thigh support sensors 33 does not detect a load, it can be determined that the user may have crossed their legs. Therefore, the posture of the user seated on the cushion 100 can be determined with higher accuracy.

[0106] In this embodiment, the posture detection system 30 includes a fabric 20 to which a seating portion sensor 31 and a sacral support portion sensor 32 are attached and which covers at least a portion of the core material 1 of the cushion 100. In this case, the seating portion sensor 31 and the sacral support portion sensor 32 are attached to the fabric 20, and at least a portion of the core material 1 is covered by the fabric 20. Therefore, by covering the core material 1 of an existing cushion 100 with the fabric 20, the seating portion sensor 31 and the sacral support portion sensor 32 can be attached to the cushion 100, making it easy to arrange the seating portion sensor 31 and the sacral support portion sensor 32 on the existing cushion 100.

[0107] In this embodiment, the posture detection system 30 includes an outer fabric 22 that covers the core material 1, and the fabric 20 is an inner fabric that is covered by the outer fabric 22. In this case, the outer fabric 22 is provided on the outside of the inner fabric (fabric 20) to which the seating portion sensor 31 and the sacrum support portion sensor 32 are attached. Therefore, the outer fabric 22 can be removed and washed, making the cushion 100 more hygienic and allowing the cushion 100 to be used for a longer period of time.

[0108] Next, a cushion 200 equipped with a posture detection system 60 according to a modified example will be described with reference to Fig. 9. The cushion 200 differs from the cushion 100 described above in that it does not have an inner fabric. The posture detection system 60 and a portion of the cushion 200 are the same as the posture detection system 30 and a portion of the cushion 100. Therefore, in the following, explanations that overlap with the explanations of the posture detection system 30 and the cushion 100 will be omitted as appropriate by assigning the same reference numerals.

[0109] The cushion 200 is used with the core material 1 housed in the fabric 70. The fabric 70 is provided to prevent the core material 1 from getting dirty. The fabric 70 is an outer fabric to which the seating portion sensor 31, the sacrum support portion sensor 32, and the thigh support portion sensor 33 are attached. The fabric 70 as the outer fabric covers, for example, the entire core material 1.

[0110] The fabric 70 may be detachable from the core 1. For example, the fabric 70 may have a zipper (not shown), and when the zipper is opened, the core 1 can be freely taken in and out of the interior of the fabric 70. In this case, the seating portion sensor 31, the sacrum support portion sensor 32, and the thigh support portion sensor 33 can be attached to and detached from the core 1.

[0111] In this modified example, the posture detection system 60 includes a fabric 70 to which at least the seating portion sensor 31 and the sacral support portion sensor 32 are attached, and which covers at least a portion of the core material 1 of the cushion 200. Thus, the seating portion sensor 31 and the sacral support portion sensor 32 are attached to the fabric 70, and the core material 1 is covered by the fabric 70. Therefore, by covering the core material 1 of an existing cushion 200 with the fabric 70, the seating portion sensor 31 and the sacral support portion sensor 32 can be attached to the cushion 200, and the seating portion sensor 31 and the sacral support portion sensor 32 can be easily arranged on the existing cushion 200. Therefore, this modified example provides the same effects as the above-described embodiment.

[0112] The above describes embodiments of the posture detection system and posture detection method according to the present disclosure. However, the posture detection system and posture detection method according to the present disclosure are not limited to the above-described embodiments and may be modified or applied to other things without departing from the spirit of the claims. In other words, the configuration and function of each part of the posture detection system, as well as the content and order of the steps of the posture detection method, may be modified as appropriate without departing from the spirit of the claims. Furthermore, the shape, size, number, material, and arrangement of each part of the cushion are not limited to the cushions 100 and 200 described above and may be modified as appropriate.

[0113] For example, in the above-described embodiment, an example was described in which the thigh support sensor 33 measures the load on the thigh. However, the thigh support sensor 33 may be omitted. Also, in the above-described embodiment, the core material 1 including the seating section 2 and the lumbar support section 3 was described. For example, the height of the lumbar support section 3 can be changed as appropriate. For example, the height of the upper end of the lumbar support section 3 may be the height of the user's back, the height of the user's shoulders, or the height of the user's head, and is not particularly limited. In this case, the cushion can be used as a chair such as a gaming chair.

[0114] For example, in the above-described embodiment, an example has been described in which the alarm unit 52 notifies the information terminal T that the posture is not appropriate. However, for example, the alarm unit may output the alarm as sound. The alarm unit may output the alarm as light. Or, the alarm unit may output the alarm as vibration. In this way, the type of alarm output by the alarm unit can be changed as appropriate.

[0115] For example, the cushion may have a foldable lumbar support portion relative to the seat portion. In this case, the cushion can be used as an office chair, a reclining chair, or a full-flat seat. The cushion may also be a seat used in transportation machinery such as automobiles, railroad cars, or aircraft. In this way, the posture detection system and posture detection method according to the present disclosure can be applied to various cushions. [Explanation of symbols]

[0116] 1...core material, 1b...underside, 2...seating section, 2b...ventilation hole, 3...lumbar support section, 4...buttocks support section, 4b...upper surface, 5...thigh support section, 5b...recess, 6...ischial support section, 6b...recess, 6c...through hole, 6f...tapered surface, 7...inclined surface, 8, 9...convex section, 9c...inclined section, 10...general section, 11...sacrum support section, 11d...protruding surface, 11f...depression section, 11g...bottom surface, 11h...inner surface, 20...fabric (inner fabric), 22...outer fabric, 30...posture detection system, 31...seating section sensor, 32...sacrum support section sensor, 33...thigh support section sensor, 34... cable, 35...communication unit, 40...control unit, 41...seating determination unit, 42...posture determination unit, 43...leg crossing determination unit, 50...output unit, 51...display unit, 51b...sitting time, 51c, 51d, 51f, 51g, 51h...time, 51j...time chart, 51k...comments, 51p...ranking, 52...alarm unit, 60...posture detection system, 70...fabric, 100, 200...cushion, D1...first direction, D2...second direction, D3...third direction, L1, L2...extension line, P...intersection, S...placing surface, T...information terminal, θ1...intersection angle, θ2...tilt angle.

Claims

1. A posture detection system for detecting the posture of a user sitting on a cushion including a seat having a buttocks support portion on which the buttocks of the user are placed, and a lumbar support portion having a sacrum support portion that supports the sacrum of the user from behind, a seat sensor attached to the seat to measure whether the user is seated on the seat; a sacral support sensor attached to the sacral support and measuring the posture of the user seated on the seat; a posture determination unit that determines the posture of the user from the results measured by the sacral support sensor; an alarm unit that outputs an alarm when the posture determination unit determines that the posture of the user is not good; Equipped with a fabric on which the seating portion sensor and the sacral support portion sensor are attached and which covers at least a portion of a core material of the cushion; The fabric is fixed to the core material so as to cover only the seating portion and the sacral support portion. Posture detection system.

2. the sacral support sensor measures whether the user's sacrum is in contact with the sacral support sensor; the posture determination unit determines that the posture of the user is hunched when the sacrum of the user is not in contact with the sacrum support sensor. The posture sensing system according to claim 1 .

3. the sacral support sensor measures a load of the user's sacrum on the sacral support sensor; the posture determination unit determines that the user's posture is leaning back too much when the load measured by the sacrum support sensor is equal to or greater than a certain value. The posture detection system according to claim 1 or 2.

4. the seating portion has a pair of thigh support portions aligned along the left-right direction as seen from the user seated on the seating portion, The seat further includes a pair of thigh support sensors attached to the pair of thigh support sections, respectively, for measuring the load on the thighs of the user seated on the seat section. The posture detection system according to claim 1 or 2.

5. An outer fabric covering the core material is provided, The fabric is an inner fabric covered by the outer fabric. The posture sensing system according to claim 1 .

6. A posture detection method for detecting the posture of a user sitting on a cushion including a seat having a buttocks support portion on which the buttocks of the user are placed, and a lumbar support portion having a sacrum support portion that supports the sacrum of the user from behind, the method comprising: a step of measuring whether the user is seated on the seat by a seat sensor attached to the seat; a step of measuring the posture of the user seated on the seating portion by a sacral support sensor attached to the sacral support portion; determining the posture of the user from the results measured by the sacral support sensor; a step of outputting an alarm when it is determined in the determining step that the posture of the user is not good; Equipped with a fabric on which the seating portion sensor and the sacral support portion sensor are attached and which covers at least a portion of a core material of the cushion; The fabric is fixed to the core material so as to cover only the seating portion and the sacral support portion. Attitude detection method.

Images