Car seats with user proximity tracking

Abstract

Various specific embodiments include a seat and related systems for detecting user proximity and controlling one or more functions based on the proximity detection. In certain cases, the seat includes capacitive sensors for detecting user proximity. In some specific aspects, an automotive seat includes: a core portion; a cover located above at least a portion of the core portion, the cover having a set of capacitive sensors across the front of the seat; and a processor for processing signals from the set of capacitive sensors to detect user proximity.

Description

[0001] Priority Statement

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 916,308, filed June 30, 2020, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This disclosure relates generally to seats and sensors. More specifically, this disclosure relates to seats with integrated sensors for detecting user proximity. Background Technology

[0004] For example, conventional seating arrangements in automobiles prioritize user support and comfort. In some cases, these arrangements integrate speakers for providing audio output. However, these conventional seating arrangements cannot utilize detectable user characteristics that could contribute to system control. Summary of the Invention

[0005] All examples and features mentioned below can be combined in any technically possible way.

[0006] Various specific implementations include a seat and related systems for detecting user proximity and controlling one or more functions based on that proximity detection. In certain cases, the seat includes a capacitive sensor for detecting user proximity.

[0007] In some specific aspects, a car seat includes: a core portion; a cover located above at least a portion of the core portion, the cover having a set of capacitive sensors across the front of the seat; and a processor for processing signals from the set of capacitive sensors to detect the proximity of a user.

[0008] In another specific aspect, a system includes: a car seat comprising: a core portion; a cover located above at least a portion of the core portion, the cover having a set of capacitive sensors across the front of the seat for detecting the position of a user's head; and a processor coupled to the set of capacitive sensors for detecting the proximity of the user.

[0009] In another aspect, a seat includes: a core portion; a cover located above at least a portion of the core portion, the cover having a set of capacitive sensors across the front of the seat; and a processor for processing signals from the set of capacitive sensors to detect the proximity of a user.

[0010] In another aspect, a seat includes: a core portion including at least one cushion; a cover located over at least a portion of the core portion; a set of capacitive sensors spanning the front of the seat between the core portion and the cover; and a processor for processing signals from the set of capacitive sensors to detect the proximity of a user.

[0011] Specific implementations may include one of the following features, or any combination thereof.

[0012] In some respects, the set of capacitive sensors is arranged in a matrix across the front of the seat.

[0013] In certain cases, the matrix of capacitive sensors is located in the headrest portion of the seat or in the backrest portion of the seat.

[0014] In some implementations, the matrix of capacitive sensors is distributed on both sides of the vertical centerline at the front of the seat, and the processor is configured to detect the user's left-right (e.g., horizontal) movement based on signals from the matrix of capacitive sensors.

[0015] In some respects, the matrix of capacitive sensors is distributed on both sides of the horizontal centerline at the front of the seat, and the processor is configured to detect the user's vertical movement based on signals from the matrix of capacitive sensors.

[0016] In some respects, the processor is configured to determine at least one of the user's location or the user's movement based on the detected proximity to the set of capacitive sensors.

[0017] In a particular implementation, the matrix of capacitive sensors includes at least four regions, with at least two regions located on each side of the vertical centerline of the seat.

[0018] In some cases, a zone located on the same side of the vertical centerline is configured to detect vertical movement of the user's head.

[0019] In some specific implementations, the matrix of the capacitive sensor comprises at least six regions, with at least three regions located on each side of the vertical centerline.

[0020] Under certain conditions, the set of capacitive sensors is configured to detect at least one of the following: the user's tilting movement, the user's left-right movement, the user's displacement movement, or movement between a seated position and an unseatened position.

[0021] In some respects, the car seat also includes a controller coupled to the processor, wherein the controller is configured to control functions in the car based on the detected proximity of the user.

[0022] In some cases, the controller is configured to enable attitude-based control, for example, as detected by the capacitive sensor.

[0023] In a specific implementation, the functions in the vehicle include at least one of the following: audio playback settings in the vehicle, microphone function in the vehicle, navigation function of the navigation system, telephone settings for paired telephones, or height settings of the vehicle seats.

[0024] In some cases, the audio playback settings include at least one of the following: volume, left / right channel selection, center image adjustment, or playback selection (e.g., track selection or radio station selection).

[0025] In some cases, this microphone feature includes beamforming, for example, to enhance voice capture.

[0026] In certain aspects, this height setting includes, for example, the height of the seat in a car, or the height of the headrest in the seat.

[0027] In some specific implementations, the processor is located within the core section and is physically separate from the controller or located near the controller in the vehicle's control section.

[0028] In some cases, the controller is configured to control the output of at least one audio cue requesting user feedback, which can be detected by utilizing a change in the user's head position, and wherein the controller is configured to process the user feedback as the change in the user's head position only within a specified period of time following the output of the at least one audio cue.

[0029] In certain aspects, the controller is further configured to process signals from the capacitive sensor to detect at least one health indicator of the user. In some cases, this health indicator includes respiratory rate, drowsiness, and / or alertness.

[0030] In some cases, the controller is further configured to process signals from an additional detection system, and the controller is configured to verify signals from the additional detection system using signals from the set of capacitive sensors.

[0031] In some implementations, the additional detection system includes at least one of the following: a motion detection system, a position detection system, or an orientation detection system. In certain cases, the additional detection system includes a two-dimensional (2D) camera, a three-dimensional (3D) camera, an optical sensor, an inertial measurement unit (IMU), and / or acoustic-based sensors such as a microphone or microphone array.

[0032] In some cases, the core includes a skeletal support structure, the cover includes fabric, and the set of capacitive sensors is embedded in or woven into the fabric.

[0033] In some aspects, the system also includes a transducer coupled to the controller, wherein the controller is configured to: enable the output of at least one audio cue via the transducer, the at least one audio cue requesting user feedback that can be detected by means of a change in proximity between the user and at least one of the capacitive sensors in the set of capacitive sensors; and process the user feedback as the change in proximity between the user and the at least one capacitive sensor only for a specified period of time following the output of the at least one audio cue.

[0034] Two or more features described in this disclosure, including those described in the content section of this invention, may be combined to form specific embodiments not specifically described herein.

[0035] Details of one or more specific embodiments are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the following description. Other features, objects, and beneficial effects will be apparent from the specification, drawings, and claims. Attached Figure Description

[0036] Figure 1 This is a schematic top cross-sectional view of an exemplary environment based on various specific implementations.

[0037] Figure 2 It depends on various specific implementations. Figure 1 A front view of the seat in the environment.

[0038] Figure 3 It depends on various specific implementations. Figure 1 A top view of the seats in the environment.

[0039] Figure 4 The configuration of the sensor in the seat back is shown according to various specific implementations.

[0040] Figure 5 The configuration of the sensors in the headrest according to various specific implementations is shown.

[0041] It should be noted that the accompanying drawings for various specific embodiments are not necessarily drawn to scale. The drawings are intended only to illustrate typical aspects of this disclosure and should not be considered as limiting the scope of the specific embodiments. In the drawings, similar numbers indicate similar elements between the figures. Detailed Implementation

[0042] This disclosure is based, at least in part, on the understanding that capacitive sensor systems can be advantageously deployed in seats (such as car seats) to control one or more functions. For example, a car seat may include a set of capacitive sensors for detecting the presence and / or position / movement of a user in order to control functions within the vehicle. In some cases, this set of capacitive sensors serves as an interface between the user and a controller within the vehicle. Compared to conventional methods, the seats and systems disclosed herein enable enhanced control of vehicle functions and provide the user with a posture-based or motion-based interface.

[0043] For illustrative purposes, the components usually labeled in the accompanying drawings are considered to be substantially equivalent, and redundant discussion of those components is omitted for clarity.

[0044] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of environment 100 according to various specific implementations. In some cases, environment 100 includes the passenger compartment of a vehicle (such as a car). However, in other cases, environment 100 may include an aircraft cabin, a home theater or game room, an amusement park ride, etc. Figure 1 The exemplary environment 100 shown illustrates a vehicle with an audio system having speakers located on each of the four doors. It should be understood that this configuration is merely one example used to illustrate various specific embodiments of the present disclosure of a vehicle (and associated audio system), and many other configurations may be utilized in conjunction with these specific embodiments.

[0045] As shown in the figure, environment 100 may include a passenger compartment 110 (e.g., a car or other cabin) and an audio system 120. The audio system 120 is shown as including a combined source / processing / amplification unit (S / P / A) 130 and a set of speakers 140a-d. In some examples, the different functions of the combined source / processing / amplification unit 130 may be divided among multiple components. Specifically, the source is typically separate from the amplifier and processing is provided by the source or amplifier, but processing may also be provided by a separate component. Processing may also be provided by software loaded onto a general-purpose computer that provides the functions of the source and / or amplifier. We generally refer to signal processing and amplification provided by the “system” without specifying any particular system architecture or technology. In this example, fixed speakers 140a-b are shown, which may include at least one tweeter or mid-high frequency speaker element (e.g., a tweeter) and at least one woofer or mid-low frequency speaker element (e.g., a woofer). Additional descriptions of the audio system 120 and variations thereof are included in U.S. Patent No. 10,313,819 (Phantom Center Image Control), the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0046] Environment 100 also illustrates a proximity-based control system (or “proximity system”) 150. In some specific implementations, proximity system 150 utilizes or includes one or more components of audio system 120 to perform the functions described herein. In some cases, proximity system 150, along with other components of audio system 120, is executed as software (e.g., software modules) in a general processing unit. In some cases, proximity system 150 includes a controller (CR) 160 for performing one or more functions described herein. In some aspects, controller 160 includes control circuitry and / or one or more processors (PUs) for performing the functions described herein. As described herein, in some cases, proximity system 150 also includes a processor (PU) 170 physically separate from controller 160, for example, located in or near seat 180 in carriage 110. In some cases, processor 170 is configured to communicate with controller 160, for example, via any conventional hardwired and / or wireless means. According to some other specific implementations, the processor 170 is physically close to or integrated with the controller 160, such as in cases where the processor 170 and the controller 160 are located together in a centralized control system (e.g., an automotive control system or an aviation control system).

[0047] Figure 2 It shows Figure 1 A close-up front view of a portion of the seats 180 in carriage 110, and Figure 3 It shows Figure 2 A top view of this part of seat 180. Also refer to... Figure 1 and Figure 3 It should be understood that seat 180 may include any of the seats shown in carriage 110, such that one or more of the seats may include seats related to... Figure 2 and Figure 3The features described for seat 180 in the carriage 110 are as follows. According to various embodiments, one or more seats 180 in the carriage 110 may include a core portion 190 and a cover 200 located above at least a portion of the core portion 190. The core portion 190 is shown in dashed lines and may include structural support elements for the seat 180, such as a skeletal support structure and associated padding, as well as adjustment mechanisms for positioning. In some cases, seat 180 includes a base 210, a backrest 220, and a headrest 230. In other cases, seat 180 includes only the base 210, or only the base 210 and the backrest 220. In a particular embodiment, the base 210, backrest 220, and / or headrest 230 are integral with each other, forming a single component. In various embodiments, the cover 200 includes fabric or other protective materials, such as cloth, canvas, leather, or synthetic materials. As used herein, in various embodiments, the general term "seat" may refer collectively to the base 210, backrest 220, and headrest 230. That is, in some specific implementations, the proximity system 150 is configured to detect user proximity, position, orientation, and / or movement using sensors located at one or more portions of the seat 180. It should be understood that references to the seat 180 may include references to one or more portions of the seat 180.

[0048] In certain cases, the cover 200 may also include a set of capacitive sensors 240 positioned across the front portion 250 of the seat 180. In some examples, such as when the cover 200 comprises fabric, the set of capacitive sensors (or sensors) 240 are embedded within or woven into the fabric. However, the sensors 240 may be coupled, attached, or otherwise engaged with the cover 200 using any of a variety of additional methods. In other embodiments, the sensors 240 are located between the core portion 190 and the cover 200, for example, mounted to the back of the cover 200, a padding portion in the core 190, and / or another support structure within the core portion 190. In some cases, the sensors 240 are positioned on a support structure, such as a mounting or plate below the cover 200, and / or integrated into the cover 200. As described herein, in some cases, the set of capacitive sensors 240 may include at least one capacitive sensor 240. In various other embodiments, the set of capacitive sensors includes two or more capacitive sensors 240. The capacitive sensors 240 are associated with the processor 170 (…). Figure 1Coupled together, they may be located at or near seat 180 and / or at or near controller 160 (e.g., in a centralized control module). In some cases, capacitive sensor 240 is configured to detect the proximity of a user (e.g., a human user) to seat 180. Depending on the specific implementation, capacitive sensor 240 detects changes in capacitance upon contact with the user's body (e.g., the user's head, back, neck, legs, etc.). Processor 170 receives signals from capacitive sensor 240 indicating these changes in capacitance and processes these signals to detect user proximity.

[0049] In some cases, such as Figure 2 As shown in one example, capacitive sensors 240 are arranged in a matrix 260 across the front portion 250 of seat 180 (e.g., 2x2, 3x3, 3x2, 2x3, 4x2, 2x4, etc.). In some implementations, one or more matrices 260 may be located on different portions of seat 180 and may operate independently, or multiple sensors 240 may be arranged in a matrix 260 spanning different portions of seat 180, for example, using sensors 240 on backrest 220 and / or headrest 230.

[0050] like Figure 2As shown, according to some specific embodiments, matrix 260 includes sensors 240 distributed on both sides of a vertical centerline 270 of the front portion 250 of seat 180 (e.g., the front portion of backrest 220 and / or headrest 230). In some examples, one or more sensors 240 are located on each side of the vertical centerline 270. In these specific embodiments, processor 170 is configured to detect left-right (e.g., horizontal) movement of the user based on signals from the sensors 240, such as when the relative capacitance on the left sensor 240 relative to the right sensor 240 changes. In some additional or alternative configurations, matrix 260 includes sensors 240 distributed on both sides of a horizontal centerline 280 of the front portion of seat 250 (e.g., the front portion of backrest 220 and / or headrest 230, wherein two different horizontal centerlines 280a, 280b are shown for backrest 220 and headrest 230, respectively). In these specific implementations, processor 170 is configured to detect vertical movement of the user based on signals from sensor 240, such as when the relative capacitance of the lower sensor 240 relative to the upper sensor 240 changes. In some examples, two or more sensors 240 are located on each side of the vertical centerline 270. In these cases, as shown in the exemplary configuration in backrest 220, two regions 290a, 290b are located on one side of the vertical centerline 270, while two regions 290c, 290d are located on the other side of the vertical centerline 270. In some cases, regions (e.g., 290a, 290b) are also distributed on opposite sides of the horizontal centerline 280. In any case, regions located on the same side of the vertical centerline 270 (e.g., regions 290a, 290b) are configured to detect vertical movement of the user, such as leaning forward or backward when matrix 260 is on backrest 220, or forward / backward or vertical movement of the user's head when matrix 260 is on headrest 230. In some specific examples, such as Figure 4 As shown, matrix 260 may include at least six (6) regions 290, with three regions located on each side of the vertical centerline 270. It should be understood that the illustration of the matrix does not limit various aspects of this disclosure. For example, in addition to or alternatively to the sensor 240 shown in matrix 260 or any other matrix shown or described herein, one or more sensors 240 may also be located on a centerline (e.g., vertical centerline 270 and / or horizontal centerline 280). Figures 2 to 5 An example of another sensor 240 is shown, which is generally shown on or near one or more center lines in a specific part of the seat 180.

[0051] In a specific example, the matrix 260 of sensor 240 is... Figure 4 The image is shown as spanning the backrest 220, while the sensor matrix 260 is... Figure 5The sensor 240 is shown as straddling headrest 230. In these embodiments, each matrix 260 of the sensor 240 may be configured to detect the proximity of different parts of the user's body, such as the user's head, back, legs / seat, etc. In some embodiments, as described herein, the sensor 240 is configured to detect user movement and / or position and proximity. That is, the sensors 240 in different areas 290 send signals to the processor 170 indicating the proximity or change in proximity of the user to the sensors 240 in those areas 290. In some cases, the sensor 240 may indicate whether the user is in a seated or unseatened position, and indicate transitions (i.e., movements) between those positions. For example, the sensor 240 in backrest 220 may indicate whether the user's back is close to backrest 220, while the sensor 240 in headrest 230 may indicate whether the user's head is close to headrest 230. The sensor 240 in base 210 may indicate whether the user is in seat 180. In another example, sensors 240 in the backrest 220 and / or headrest 230 can indicate whether the user is leaning forward or backward, and / or to the left or right. In these cases, when sensors 240 located on either side of the vertical center line 270 indicate a change in proximity, the user is likely leaning forward (from near to far) or backward (from far to near). Sensors 240 in vertically arranged areas 290 can also detect tilt, for example, where the lower area 290 has sensors 240 indicating proximity to the user, while the upper area 290 has sensors 240 indicating non-proximity to the user. In some cases, these areas are located on different sides of the horizontal center line 280, but in others, these areas may be close to and / or adjacent to each other. In other examples, when a sensor 240 located only on one side of the vertical center line 270 detects proximity, this can indicate lateral movement or displacement of the user.

[0052] return Figure 1 As described herein, controller 160 is configured to control functions within vehicle compartment 110 based on detected proximity of a user to one or more sensors 240. In the example of an automobile, controller 160 is configured to control automobile functions based on detected proximity of a user to one or more sensors 240. In a particular example, controller 160 is configured to use sensors 240 to enable attitude-based control of functions within vehicle compartment 110.

[0053] In the vehicle control example, controller 160 is configured (i.e., programmed) to control functions in the vehicle, including at least one of the following: audio playback settings in the vehicle, microphone functions in the vehicle, navigation functions of the navigation system, telephone settings for a paired telephone, or height settings for the vehicle seat. Audio playback settings can define playback via audio system 120 and / or other connected audio systems (such as portable or wearable audio devices). Audio playback settings can include audio signal filters, volume, left and right channel inputs, center image position, playback or streaming selection, track or radio station, etc. In some cases, controller 160 uses detected changes in user proximity to enable adjustment of audio playback settings. In certain cases, these settings can be adjusted using posture detected by sensor 240 (e.g., nodding or shaking detected by sensor 240 in headrest 230). In other cases, these settings are adjusted based on detected changes in user position, for example, causing the left / right channel input or center image to adjust in response to detected user shifting or tilting in seat 180.

[0054] In certain examples, the audio signal filter to transducer 140 (e.g., in a door, dashboard, overhead, and / or headrest) is controlled based on the detected user position or movement. In some examples, controller 160 is configured to adjust the audio signal filter to the headrest transducer based on detected user movement within seat 180. In one example, controller 160 adjusts the center image of the audio output from transducer 140 (e.g., in the headrest and / or other parts of compartment 110) in response to detecting left or right tilting of the user. In certain cases, controller 160 is configured to adjust the audio signal filter to the transducer in the headrest to adjust the center image when it is detected that the user's head has moved relative to those transducers, for example, maintaining a stable center image even if the user's head moves. This can be achieved by modifying the amplitude and phase of the signal sent to the headrest transducer. In other examples, controller 160 is configured to adjust the frequency-based output level at transducer 140 (e.g., in the headrest and / or other parts of carriage 110) when the user leans forward or otherwise moves away from the headrest.

[0055] Microphone functionality controlled by certain detected changes in user proximity may include adjusting beamforming coefficients or beamforming techniques to enhance user voice pickup. In some implementations, controller 160 is configured to receive (e.g., from processor 170) indications that the user's head position has changed (e.g., as indicated by a change in relative proximity between sensors 240 in left and right regions 290) and adjust microphone functionality to enhance voice pickup from different directions. In some additional cases, controller 160 may enable or disable voice commands in response to a detected change in user position, for example, enabling commands when the user is looking forward and disabling commands when the user is looking down or to the side. In other examples, controller 160 is configured to adjust beamforming coefficients to enhance microphone pickup based on position estimates or indications (e.g., seat 180 position and / or user movement within seat 180). In some examples, controller 160 uses detected seat position information and information about the user's relative movement to calculate beamforming coefficients to enhance voice pickup at the microphone.

[0056] In some other examples, controller 160 is configured to adjust the height setting of seat 180 in response to the detection of proximity, for example, by adjusting the height of headrest 230 relative to backrest 220 in response to detecting that a user is sitting too low or too high in seat 180. In example cases, the upper region 290 of sensor 240 may not indicate proximity, while the lower region 290 of sensor 240 indicates proximity, and controller 160 can infer that the user is sitting at a position below the detectable height of the upper region of sensor 290. In these cases, controller 160 is configured to lower the height of headrest 230 relative to backrest 220 to provide more adequate support for the user's head. Controller 160 can perform a similar function to raise the height of headrest 230, for example, in response to the detection that the lower region 290 of sensor 240 does not indicate proximity, while the upper region of sensor 290 indicates proximity, controller is configured to raise headrest 230 relative to backrest 220. Additionally, the controller 160 may perform similar functions to tilt the headrest 230 forward or backward in response to detecting user proximity, for example, to improve safety by placing it closer to the user's head and / or to improve audio performance by placing the headrest 230 closer to or further away from the user's head for a specific audio output.

[0057] In some cases, controller 160 is configured to control the output of at least one audio cue requesting user feedback that can be detected using changes in the user's head position. For example, controller 160 is configured to initiate the output of an audio cue (e.g., via speaker 140) that requests feedback in the form of a user's head posture (such as nodding, shaking, rapidly turning, or looking). In a particular implementation, controller 160 is configured to remain in interrogation mode only for a specified period after initiating the audio cue. That is, a response to the audio cue must be detected during the interrogation period to register with controller 160 (and trigger subsequent operations). In these cases, controller 160 allows the user to ignore the cue and / or avoid erroneously triggering a response with head posture, which can enhance hands-free control of one or more functions in the passenger compartment 110.

[0058] In a further embodiment, controller 160 is configured to process signals from sensor 240 to detect one or more health indicators of the user. For example, in some embodiments, capacitive sensor 240 in backrest 220 is positioned to detect user breathing (e.g., respiratory rate). In these examples, sensor 240 is positioned to sense user movement associated with alternating inhalation and exhalation. In some embodiments, controller 160 is configured to act in response to detecting a deviation of the user's respiratory rate from a threshold, which is, for example, a personalized respiratory rate range defined by the user or learned over time (e.g., using machine learning components), or a respiratory rate range generally accepted for a healthy individual. In some cases, controller 160 is configured to provide an alert to the user or a third party (e.g., medical personnel or emergency response unit) in response to detecting a deviation of the user's respiratory rate from a threshold over a period of time (e.g., a statistically significant period). In some embodiments, controller 160 is configured to process signals from sensor 240 to detect additional health indicators, such as drowsiness (sleepiness) or alertness. For example, in certain situations, controller 160 is configured to detect that a user is drowsy / drowsy and initiate one or more actions based on the user's seating position. In response to detecting that a driver user is drowsy or otherwise inattentive, controller 160 is configured to adjust cabin lighting (e.g., brighter), audio playback volume (e.g., louder), and / or provide alarms or other stimuli, such as audible or haptic alarms, via the seat and / or steering wheel. In response to detecting that a passenger user is drowsy, controller 160 is configured to adjust cabin lighting (e.g., dimmer), audio playback volume (e.g., softer), etc., to improve the passenger user's sleep conditions. In specific situations, controller 160 is configured to adjust one or more parameters (e.g., lighting, audio playback, stimulation) row-by-row, seat-by-seat, and / or section-by-section.

[0059] In a further specific implementation, controller 160 is configured to process signals from an additional detection system to enable one or more control functions. For example, such as Figure 1 As shown, controller 160 can be connected to additional detection system 300, which is configured to detect one or more aspects of user actions and / or posture. In some cases, additional detection system 300 is configured to detect user actions, position and / or position changes, and / or orientation and / or orientation changes, and provide the corresponding data to controller 160. Examples of additional detection system 300 include one or more two-dimensional or three-dimensional optical sensors (e.g., cameras), one or more inertial measurement units (IMUs), acoustic-based sensors (e.g., one or more microphones or microphone arrays), etc. In certain cases, additional detection system 300 may be referred to as a head and / or body orientation and / or position detection system. In some specific implementations, controller 160 is configured to verify signals from additional detection system 300 using signals from sensor 240. For example, capacitive sensor 240 may be used as an auxiliary sensor or verification sensor that confirms indications from additional detection system 300. In one example, the additional detection system 300 may include an IMU in a wearable device on the user's body, and the controller 160 is configured to confirm the user's position, orientation, and / or movement (e.g., looking left / right or leaning forward / backward) detected by the IMU using the user's position, orientation, and / or movement (e.g., as indicated by the sensors 240 in different areas 290). In a particular implementation, the controller 160 is configured to take action based on the user movement detected by the additional detection system 300 only when the signal from the sensors 240 confirms user movement.

[0060] In another specific implementation, controller 160 is configured to use data indicating position, orientation, and / or movement detected by capacitive sensor 340 to help correct uncertainties in measurements performed by one or more additional detection systems 300, such as correcting for IMU drift, occlusion in camera systems, and / or noise interference in microphone systems. In some specific implementations, for example, where additional detection system 300 is part of a wearable device (e.g., an IMU in a wearable device such as a smart device or wearable audio device), data from sensor 240 can be beneficially used by controller 160 to verify user position, orientation, and / or movement, and to reset the position and / or orientation of one or more additional detection systems 300. In certain cases, when one or more additional detection systems 300 have periods of uncertainty, controller 160 uses data from sensor 240 to maintain stable position information.

[0061] Compared to conventional systems and methods, various aspects of the present invention enable the detection of user proximity in a seated environment. In some cases, this proximity detection can be used to control various functions in the environment and / or enable gesture-based, proximity-based, or other movement-based commands. Additionally, the systems and methods disclosed according to various specific embodiments can be configured to assist driver / user monitoring (e.g., eye tracking) in vehicles to enhance safety. For example, the systems and methods disclosed herein can help monitor user alertness by providing reliable detection of the user's body and / or head position.

[0062] Some components of the disclosed system may not be depicted but are understood to perform various additional functions. For example, the system may include additional electronic devices, including but not limited to power supplies, processors, memory, communication components such as transmitters / receivers, network connectivity devices (including but not limited to Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, cellular, or near-field communication (NFC) devices), and location identification components (e.g., GPS systems). Additionally, the system disclosed herein may include one or more user interfaces that allow user interaction, including one or more conventional input devices such as haptic input devices including dial pads, buttons, touchscreens, etc. The interface may also include a voice command interface, allowing users to make adjustments using voice commands. The interface may also include a gesture-based interface, allowing users to make adjustments using gestures (e.g., waving, nodding, etc.).

[0063] The functions or portions thereof described herein, and their various modifications (hereinafter referred to as "functions") may be implemented at least in part by computer program products, such as computer programs tangibly implemented in an information carrier, such as one or more non-transitory machine-readable media, for performing or controlling the operation of one or more data processing devices, such as programmable processors, computers, multiple computers and / or programmable logic components.

[0064] Computer programs can be written in any programming language, including compiled or interpreted languages, and can be deployed in any form, including as standalone programs or as modules, components, subroutines, or other units suitable for use in a computing environment. Computer programs can be deployed on a single computer, distributed across one or more sites, or executed on multiple computers interconnected via a network.

[0065] The actions associated with implementing all or part of the functionality can be performed by one or more programmable processors executing one or more computer programs to perform the functions of the calibration process. All or part of the functionality can be implemented as special-purpose logic circuitry, such as FPGAs and / or ASICs (Application-Specific Integrated Circuits). Processors suitable for executing computer programs include, for example, both general-purpose microprocessors and special-purpose microprocessors, as well as any one or more processors of any type of digital computer. Generally, the processor will receive instructions and data from read-only memory or random access memory, or both. The components of a computer include a processor for executing instructions and one or more memory devices for storing instructions and data.

[0066] Additionally, one or more networked computing devices may perform actions associated with implementing all or part of the functions described herein. Networked computing devices may be connected via networks such as one or more wired and / or wireless networks such as local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs), personal area networks (PANs), internet-connected devices and / or networks and / or cloud-based computing (e.g., cloud-based servers).

[0067] In various embodiments, components described as "coupled" to each other may be joined along one or more interfaces. In some embodiments, these interfaces may include joints between different components, and in others, these interfaces may include solid and / or integrally formed interconnects. That is, in some cases, components "coupled" to each other may be formed simultaneously to define a single continuous member. However, in other embodiments, these coupled components may be formed as separate members and subsequently joined by known processes (e.g., welding, fastening, ultrasonic welding, bonding). In various embodiments, electronic components described as "coupled" may be linked via conventional hardwired and / or wireless means, enabling these electronic components to transmit data to each other. Additionally, sub-components within a given component may be considered to be linked via conventional paths, which may not necessarily be shown.

[0068] Several specific embodiments have been described. However, it should be understood that additional modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the inventive concept described herein, and therefore, other specific embodiments are within the scope of the following claims.

Claims

1. A car seat, comprising: Core components; A cover, located above at least a portion of the core portion, the cover including a set of capacitive sensors across the front of the seat; A processor for processing signals from the set of capacitive sensors to detect the proximity of a user, wherein the set of capacitive sensors is arranged in a matrix across the front of the seat; as well as A controller coupled to the processor, wherein the controller implements gesture-based control of functions in the vehicle, wherein the gesture-based control of the functions in the vehicle is based on proximity detected by the user and a set of capacitive sensors, wherein the functions in the vehicle include at least one of the following: audio playback settings in the vehicle or microphone functions in the vehicle.

2. The automobile seat according to claim 1, wherein the matrix of said capacitive sensors is located in at least one of: the headrest portion of the seat or the backrest portion of the seat.

3. The car seat of claim 1, wherein the matrix of capacitive sensors is distributed on both sides of the vertical centerline of the front portion of the seat, and wherein the processor is configured to detect left-right movement of the user based on signals from the matrix of capacitive sensors or the relative position of the user to the matrix of capacitive sensors.

4. The car seat of claim 1, wherein the matrix of capacitive sensors is distributed on both sides of a horizontal centerline at the front of the seat, and wherein the processor is configured to detect vertical movement of the user based on signals from the matrix of capacitive sensors or the relative position of the user to the matrix of capacitive sensors.

5. The car seat of claim 4, wherein the matrix of the capacitive sensors comprises at least four regions, wherein at least two regions are located on each side of the vertical centerline of the seat, wherein the regions located on the same side of the vertical centerline are configured to detect vertical movement of the user, and the regions located on the same side of the horizontal centerline are configured to detect horizontal movement of the user.

6. The car seat of claim 1, wherein the controller implements posture-based control of audio playback settings based on changes in proximity detected by the user and the set of capacitive sensors, wherein the controller is configured to determine posture as a control input to the set of capacitive sensors, wherein the set of capacitive sensors is configured to detect both the user's nodding posture and the user's head-shaking posture.

7. The car seat of claim 1, wherein the controller implements gesture-based control of the microphone function in the car by: Receive an indication from the set of capacitive sensors that the user's head position has changed; and Following the change in head position, the microphone function is adjusted to enhance voice pickup.

8. The automotive seat of claim 5, wherein the matrix of the capacitive sensors comprises at least six regions, wherein at least three regions are located on each side of the vertical centerline.

9. The car seat of claim 1, wherein the set of capacitive sensors is configured to detect at least one of the following: tilting movement of the user, lateral movement of the user, displacement movement of the user, or movement between a seated position and an alighting position.

10. The car seat of claim 1, wherein the controller is configured to control the output of at least one audio cue requesting posture-based user feedback, the posture-based user feedback being detectable by means of a change in the user's head position, and wherein the controller is configured to process the posture-based user feedback as the change in the user's head position only for a specified period of time following the output of the at least one audio cue.

11. The automotive seat of claim 1, wherein the controller is further configured to process signals from an additional detection system, and wherein the controller is configured to perform at least one of the following operations: The signals from the set of capacitive sensors are used to verify the signals from the additional detection system, or The signals from the set of capacitive sensors are used to verify at least one of the user's position or orientation detected by the additional detection system.

12. The automotive seat of claim 1, wherein the core comprises a skeletal support structure, the cover comprises fabric, and the set of capacitive sensors is embedded in or woven into the fabric.

13. The car seat of claim 1, further comprising a set of transducers for providing audio output to the user, wherein controlling the audio playback settings includes adjusting an audio signal filter to the set of transducers based on detected movement of the user indicated by the set of capacitive sensors.

14. The car seat of claim 13, wherein when controlling the audio playback settings in the car, the controller is configured to adjust the center image of the audio output from the set of transducers in response to detecting movement of the user within the seat.

15. The car seat of claim 14, wherein the adjustment of the center image of the audio output maintains a stable center image for the user during the user's movement.

16. A system comprising: The car seat includes: Core components; A cover, located above at least a portion of the core portion, the cover including a set of capacitive sensors across the front of the seat for detecting the position of a user's head, wherein the set of capacitive sensors is arranged in a matrix across the front of the seat; A processor, coupled to the set of capacitive sensors, for detecting the proximity of a user; and A controller coupled to the processor, wherein the controller implements gesture-based control of functions in the vehicle, wherein the gesture-based control of functions in the vehicle is based on proximity detected by the user and a set of capacitive sensors, wherein the functions in the vehicle include at least one of the following: audio playback settings in the vehicle or microphone functionality in the vehicle.

17. The system of claim 16, wherein the controller is configured to control at least one of the audio playback settings in the vehicle or the microphone function in the vehicle based on the user's detected proximity: The output of at least one audio cue is enabled via a transducer, the at least one audio cue requesting user feedback, the user feedback being detectable by a change in proximity between the user and at least one of the group of capacitive sensors; and The user feedback is processed as a change in the proximity of the user to the at least one capacitive sensor only within a specified period after the output of the at least one audio prompt.

18. The system of claim 16, wherein the matrix of capacitive sensors comprises at least four regions, wherein at least two regions are located on each side of the vertical centerline of the seat, wherein the regions on the same side of the vertical centerline are configured to detect vertical movement of the user, and the regions on the same side of the horizontal centerline are configured to detect horizontal movement of the user, wherein the matrix of capacitive sensors is configured to detect the user's nodding posture and the user's head-shaking posture.

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