Seat for a vehicle

Abstract

The present invention aims to provide a vehicle seat that can appropriately deform the shape of the vehicle seat so that a seated person can adopt a comfortable posture. The vehicle seat includes a seat back frame (20), a skin material that covers the seat back frame (20), movable bodies (35, 37) that are provided between the seat back frame (20) and the skin material and protrude forward with respect to the seat back frame, and a control device that controls the operation of the movable bodies (35, 37). The movable bodies (35, 37) include left and right shoulder movable bodies (35) that are provided at an upper portion of the seat back frame (20) and a waist movable body (37) that is provided lower than the shoulder movable bodies (35) in the seat back frame (20). The control device controls the amount of protrusion of one of the shoulder movable bodies (35) and the waist movable body (37) based on the amount of protrusion of the other.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a vehicle seat, and more particularly to a vehicle seat including a movable body. Background Technology

[0002] Previously, vehicle seats have been proposed that can deform to fit the body shape of the occupant. In detail, these vehicle seats incorporate a built-in pocket. Furthermore, by controlling the amount of air supplied to the pocket, the pocket expands or contracts. This allows a portion of the vehicle seat to deform to fit the occupant's body shape.

[0003] Patent Document 1 discloses a vehicle seat with a pocket built into the side support portion of the seat cushion. Furthermore, the vehicle seat is capable of deforming the shape of the side support of the cushion to accommodate the occupant's buttocks and thighs.

[0004] Existing technical documents

[0005] Patent documents

[0006] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2014-148235 Summary of the Invention

[0007] The problem that the invention aims to solve

[0008] The vehicle seat disclosed in Patent Document 1 provides support for the occupant, but further improvements are desired. Specifically, it is desirable to improve occupant support and reduce occupant fatigue to enhance comfort. For example, a vehicle seat that allows for appropriate deformation of its shape, enabling the occupant to assume a comfortable posture, is sought.

[0009] The present invention was made in view of the aforementioned problems, and its object is to provide a vehicle seat that allows the shape of the vehicle seat to be appropriately deformed so that the occupant can adopt a comfortable posture.

[0010] Technical means to solve the problem

[0011] The problem is solved by the following method: a vehicle seat according to the present invention includes: a seat back frame; an outer cover material covering the seat back frame; a movable body disposed between the seat back frame and the outer cover material, protruding forward relative to the seat back frame; and a control device for controlling the movement of the movable body, wherein the movable body has: left and right first movable bodies disposed on the upper portion of the seat back frame; and a second movable body disposed below the first movable body in the seat back frame, and the control device controls the protrusion of the other based on the protrusion of either the first movable body or the second movable body.

[0012] According to the structure described, the protrusion of the second movable body is controlled based on the protrusion of the first movable body disposed above the seat back frame. Thus, for example, by protruding the first movable body, the forward-bending portion of the hunchbacked sitter can be supported, and the second movable body can be retracted according to the protrusion of the first movable body. As a result, the load on the rearward-protruding portion of the hunchbacked sitter is reduced.

[0013] Furthermore, the protrusion of the first movable body is controlled based on the amount of variation of the second movable body located below the back frame. Thus, for example, by the protrusion of the second movable body, it can support the forward-curving portion of the sitter in a hunched posture, and the first movable body can be retracted according to the amount of protrusion of the second movable body, reducing the burden on the sitter in a hunched posture. In this way, the sitter can be appropriately supported according to their posture. Thus, by appropriately deforming the shape of the vehicle seat, a comfortable posture can be adopted for the sitter.

[0014] Furthermore, preferably, the first movable body is a shoulder movable body that supports the shoulder of the occupant, and the second movable body is a waist movable body that supports the waist of the occupant. When the control device controls the protrusion of the shoulder movable body and the waist movable body, it controls the protrusion of the other movable body to reduce the protrusion of the other movable body when the protrusion of the shoulder movable body and the waist movable body is large.

[0015] According to the structure, when the protrusion of either the shoulder or waist movable part is large, the protrusion of the other can be controlled to reduce it. For example, by protruding the first movable part, the shoulders of a person sitting in a hunchbacked posture can be supported, and the second movable part can be retracted according to the protrusion of the first movable part. As a result, the burden on the waist of the person sitting in a hunchbacked posture is reduced.

[0016] Furthermore, the protrusion of the first movable body is controlled based on the amount of variation of the second movable body located below the back frame. Thus, for example, by the protrusion of the second movable body, it can support the lower back of a sitter in an arched posture, and the first movable body can be retracted according to the amount of protrusion of the second movable body, thereby reducing the burden on the sitter in an arched posture. In this way, by appropriately deforming the shape of the vehicle seat, a comfortable posture can be adopted for the sitter.

[0017] Furthermore, preferably, the movable body has a bag that can expand / contract, and the control device acquires a pressure signal related to the pressure applied to the bag, and performs control based on the pressure signal to limit the amount of protrusion of the bag.

[0018] According to the aforementioned structure, excessive inflation of the bag can be suppressed based on the pressure signal output by the pressure sensor. Therefore, it can appropriately support the occupant according to their posture and body shape, allowing them to adopt a comfortable posture.

[0019] Furthermore, preferably, the control device acquires a steering angle signal related to the steering angle of the vehicle, and controls the protrusion of the movable body in real time based on the steering angle signal.

[0020] According to the aforementioned structure, the protrusion of the movable body can be controlled in real time to appropriately correspond to the vehicle's driving state. Therefore, a comfortable posture can be adopted for the occupant in various driving states.

[0021] Furthermore, preferably, the first movable body has: an inner first movable body disposed on the left and right sides of the seat back frame in the seat width direction; and left and right outer first movable bodies disposed on the outer side of the inner first movable body in the seat width direction.

[0022] According to the structure described, an outer first movable body is provided on the outside of the inner first movable body. Therefore, it is possible to properly support the occupant according to their body shape, and to properly support the occupant relative to the load borne in the left and right directions during travel.

[0023] Furthermore, preferably, the seat back frame has: left and right lower side frames extending in the vertical direction; left and right upper side frames mounted on the upper ends of the left and right lower side frames respectively, and capable of rotating in the front-back direction relative to the lower side frames; and an upper frame connected to the upper side frames, wherein the first movable body is disposed at a position sandwiched between the left and right upper side frames in the seat width direction.

[0024] According to the structure described, by rotating the upper frame, which is rotatable in the forward and backward direction relative to the lower frame and can rotate left and right, the shape of the vehicle seat can be appropriately deformed according to the posture of the occupant. Thus, a comfortable posture can be adopted for the occupant.

[0025] Furthermore, preferably, the vehicle seat includes a seat cushion frame, the seat back frame is mounted on the rear end of the seat cushion frame and is rotatable in a forward and backward direction relative to the seat cushion frame, the control device acquires a first rotation angle signal related to the rotation angle of the seat back frame relative to the seat cushion frame and a second rotation angle signal related to the rotation angle of the upper frame relative to the lower frame, and controls the protrusion amount of the movable body based on the first rotation angle signal and the second rotation angle signal.

[0026] According to the structure, the amount of protrusion of the movable body is controlled by the rotation angle and the center fold angle of the seat cushion frame, so that a comfortable posture can be adopted for the occupant.

[0027] Furthermore, preferably, the vehicle seat includes a lifting mechanism that supports the first movable body so that it can be raised and lowered relative to the seat back frame in the vertical direction.

[0028] According to the aforementioned structure, the first movable body can be raised and lowered vertically to accommodate the body shape of the person sitting. This allows the person to adopt a comfortable posture.

[0029] Furthermore, preferably, the lifting mechanism supports the second movable body so that it can move up and down relative to the seat back frame, and the control device controls the lifting mechanism so that the first movable body moves up and down corresponding to the vertical position of the second movable body.

[0030] According to the structure, the first movable body rises and falls in the vertical direction relative to the position of the second movable body located below it. This allows the first movable body to extend in conjunction with the second movable body to accommodate the body shape of the occupant, and the vehicle seat to deform appropriately to fit the occupant's body shape. Consequently, a comfortable posture can be adopted for the occupant.

[0031] Furthermore, preferably, the movable body has left and right third movable bodies, which are arranged in the vertical direction of the seat back frame between the first movable body and the second movable body. The third movable body has a plurality of bags that can expand / contract, which are stacked, have different sizes, and are arranged in different directions.

[0032] According to the structure, in addition to the first and second movable bodies, a third movable body supports the seated person, thereby improving the support for the seated person. Moreover, the third movable body can be deformed into a flexible shape and size to appropriately support the seated person according to their body shape.

[0033] The effects of the invention

[0034] According to the present invention, by appropriately deforming the shape of the seat for a vehicle, a comfortable posture can be adopted for the occupant.

[0035] Moreover, it can provide appropriate support to the sitter based on their posture and body shape, allowing them to adopt a comfortable posture.

[0036] Moreover, it allows passengers to adopt a comfortable posture for various driving conditions.

[0037] Moreover, it can properly support the occupant according to their body shape, and can also properly support the occupant relative to the load borne in the left and right directions during travel. Attached Figure Description

[0038] [ Figure 1 [ ] is an explanatory diagram of the basic structure of the vehicle seat according to the first embodiment.

[0039] [ Figure 2 [This is a 3D view of the seat frame.]

[0040] [ Figure 3 [This is a front view of the seat back frame.]

[0041] [ Figure 4A ]yes Figure 1 The AA cross-sectional view is a diagram showing the state of the shoulder fluid bag after it has been contracted.

[0042] [ Figure 4B ]yes Figure 1 The AA cross-sectional view is a diagram showing the state of the shoulder fluid bag after it has expanded.

[0043] [ Figure 5 [] is a block diagram representing the functional structure of the seat frame.

[0044] [ Figure 6 [] is a block diagram representing the functional structure of an ECU.

[0045] [ Figure 7A [This is a diagram showing the expansion / contraction of the shoulder and lumbar fluid pockets when a person's posture is judged to be hunchbacked.]

[0046] [ Figure 7B[This is a diagram showing the expansion / contraction of the shoulder and waist fluid pockets when a person's posture is determined to be an arched back.]

[0047] [ Figure 8 [] is a front view showing the first modified example of the seat back frame.

[0048] [ Figure 9 [] is a front view showing a second variation of the seat back frame.

[0049] [ Figure 10A ]yes Figure 9 The BB cross-sectional view is a diagram showing the plate in its normal position.

[0050] [ Figure 10B [] is a diagram showing the state of the board in the protruding position.

[0051] [ Figure 11A ]yes Figure 9 The BB cross-sectional view is a diagram showing the fluid bag in its normal position.

[0052] [ Figure 11B [] is a diagram showing the fluid bag in a protruding position.

[0053] [ Figure 12 [ ] is a perspective view of the seat frame according to the second embodiment.

[0054] [ Figure 13 [This is a side view of the seat frame, an enlarged view of the main parts.]

[0055] [ Figure 14 [] is a block diagram representing the functional structure of an ECU.

[0056] [ Figure 15 [ ] is a perspective view of the seat back frame of the third embodiment.

[0057] [ Figure 16 The image shows the seat with the brace removed from the backrest frame.

[0058] [ Figure 17 [This is a view of the back of the supporting component.]

[0059] [ Figure 18 [ ] is an explanatory diagram of the basic structure of the vehicle seat according to the fourth embodiment.

[0060] [ Figure 19 [This is a front view of the seat back frame.]

[0061] [ Figure 20 ]yes Figure 19 The CC cross-sectional view is a diagram showing the state of the side fluid bag after it has expanded.

[0062] [ Figure 21 [This is a perspective view of the seat cushion frame according to the fifth embodiment.]

[0063] [ Figure 22 [This is a top view of the seat cushion frame.]

[0064] [ Figure 23 [This is a top view of the seat cushion frame according to the sixth embodiment.]

[0065] [ Figure 24 [This is a top view of the seat cushion frame according to the seventh embodiment.]

[0066] [ Figure 25 [Illustrated diagram showing the state of a torsion spring exerting force upwards on a supporting member.]

[0067] [ Figure 26 [This is a schematic diagram showing the state of the thigh fluid bag exerting force on the support member upwards.]

[0068] [ Figure 27 [Illustrated diagram] is a schematic representation of an elastic rotating body with a cam shape exerting a force upward on a supporting member.

[0069] [ Figure 28 [ ] is a perspective view of the seat cushion frame of the eighth embodiment.

[0070] [ Figure 29 ]yes Figure 28 The cross-sectional view is an explanatory diagram of the length adjustment mechanism.

[0071] [ Figure 30 [This is a structural diagram of the seat cushion length adjustment mechanism.]

[0072] [ Figure 31 [ ] is an explanatory diagram of the basic structure of the vehicle seat according to the ninth embodiment.

[0073] [ Figure 32 [This is a perspective view of the seat cushion pad body, the first cover component, and the second cover component.]

[0074] [ Figure 33 [ ] is an explanatory diagram of the basic structure of the vehicle seat according to the tenth embodiment.

[0075] [ Figure 34 This is a partial cross-sectional view of the vehicle's seats from the side.

[0076] [ Figure 35 [] is a block diagram representing the functional structure of an ECU.

[0077] [ Figure 36[ ] is a diagram showing the airbag in its inflated state, and is a magnified partial cross-sectional view of the main part of the seat cushion.

[0078] [ Figure 37 [ ] is a diagram showing the front of the airbag inflated, and is a magnified partial cross-sectional view of the main part of the seat cushion.

[0079] [ Figure 38 [] is a diagram representing the process flow performed by the ECU.

[0080] [ Figure 39 [ ] is an explanatory diagram of the basic structure of the vehicle seat according to the eleventh embodiment.

[0081] [ Figure 40 [This is a diagram illustrating the state of the fluid bag when it has contracted and the state when it has protruded.]

[0082] [ Figure 41 [ ] is an explanatory diagram of the basic structure of the vehicle seat according to the twelfth embodiment.

[0083] [ Figure 42 ]yes Figure 41 AA cross-section view.

[0084] [ Figure 43 ]yes Figure 41 The AA cross-sectional view is a diagram showing an example of the recesses including the protrusions of the seat cushion padding.

[0085] [ Figure 44 [ ] is a diagram showing a connector housed within a recess in the seat cushion padding.

[0086] [ Figure 45 [] is a top view showing a modified example of the seat cushion padding.

[0087] [ Figure 46 ]yes Figure 45 BB cross-section. Detailed Implementation

[0088] <First Implementation>

[0089] Hereinafter, a vehicle seat according to a first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the embodiments described below are for the purpose of understanding the present invention and are not intended to limit the present invention. That is, the present invention can be modified and improved without departing from its spirit, and its equivalents are naturally included in the present invention.

[0090] Furthermore, in the following explanation, "front-to-back direction" refers to the front-to-back direction as viewed from the perspective of a person seated in the vehicle, which is the same as the vehicle's direction of travel. "Seat width direction" refers to the lateral width of the vehicle seat, which is the same as the left-to-right direction as viewed from the perspective of a person seated in the vehicle. Moreover, in the following text, "left" refers to the left as viewed from the perspective of a person seated, and similarly, "right" refers to the right as viewed from the perspective of a person seated. Furthermore, "height direction" refers to the height direction of the vehicle seat, which is the same as the vertical direction as viewed from the front of the vehicle seat.

[0091] Furthermore, in the following description, when various directions are referred to as "seat" such as "seat width direction" or "seat height direction," the direction is indicated relative to the vehicle seat. Also, when referred to as "inner side of the vehicle" or "outer side of the vehicle," the direction is indicated relative to the vehicle.

[0092] Furthermore, the so-called "outer side of the vehicle" in the seat width direction refers to the outer side closer to the vehicle body (simply put, the side closer to the nearest door), while the so-called "inner side of the vehicle" refers to the inner side closer to the vehicle body (simply put, the side further away from the nearest door).

[0093] While referring to Figure 1 Figure 7 will be used to illustrate the vehicle seat S1 of the first embodiment.

[0094] <<Main Structure of Vehicle Seats>>

[0095] First, based on Figure 1 To illustrate the basic structure of the vehicle seat S1.

[0096] Figure 1 This is a three-dimensional diagram showing the basic structure of the vehicle seat S1. For example... Figure 1 As shown, the vehicle seat S1 has a seat cushion S11, a seat back S12, and a headrest S13.

[0097] The seat cushion S11 is formed by covering the seat cushion frame 10 with the seat cushion pad S11a and the outer material S11b (see reference). Figure 2 The seat backrest S12 is constructed by covering the seat backrest frame 20 (see reference) with the seat backrest pad S12a and the cover material S12b. Figure 2 The headrest S13 is constructed by covering the support column S13c with the headrest pad S13a and the outer material S13b.

[0098] Furthermore, the seat backrest S12 has left and right shoulder supports 30 and lumbar supports 35 built into the space between the seat backrest frame 20 and the cover material S12b. The left and right shoulder supports 30 and lumbar supports 35 will be described later.

[0099] Figure 2 This is a perspective view of the seat frame 1. The vehicle seat S1 includes the seat frame 1 as its skeleton. The seat frame 1 is mainly composed of the seat cushion frame 10 and the seat back frame 20.

[0100] The seat frame 1 is fixed by the height adjustment mechanism 4 to the sliding mechanism 3, which allows the vehicle seat S1 to slide in the front-to-back direction.

[0101] The seat cushion frame 10 mainly includes a cushion side frame 11 as a side frame, a base frame 12, a rear tube 13 as a connecting tube, and multiple elastic springs 14.

[0102] There is one cushioning pad side frame 11 on each side of the seat cushioning pad frame 10. The cushioning pad side frame 11 extends in the front-to-back direction.

[0103] The base frame 12 is located at the front end of the left and right buffer pad side frames 11 and connects the left and right buffer pad side frames 11.

[0104] The rear tube 13 is located at the rear end of the left and right buffer pad side frames 11 and connects the left and right buffer pad side frames 11.

[0105] Each elastic spring 14 is snapped to the base frame 12 and the rear tube 13, extending along the front-to-back direction of the seat while meandering.

[0106] Next, as Figure 2 As shown, the seat back frame 20 is a roughly rectangular frame. The seat back frame 20 is capable of rotating about the rotation axis 2 relative to the seat cushion frame 10.

[0107] The seat back frame 20 mainly includes left and right back side frames 21, upper frame 22 and lower frame 23.

[0108] The seat back frame 20 also includes: a horizontal connecting frame 24 that connects the upper portions of the left and right back side frames 21; and a vertical connecting frame 25 that connects the upper frame 22 and the horizontal connecting frame 24.

[0109] One backrest side frame 21 is disposed on each side of the seat backrest frame 20. The backrest side frame 21 extends in the vertical direction. The backrest side frame 21 comprises plate-shaped members.

[0110] The upper frame 22 connects to the upper ends of the left and right back side frames 21. The upper frame 22 is a tubular body with an inverted U-shape.

[0111] The lower frame 23 connects to the lower ends of the left and right back side frames 21. The lower frame 23 is a plate-like body. The upper frame 22 and the lower frame 23 extend along the width direction of the seat.

[0112] The horizontal connecting frame 24 connects the upper portions of the left and right seat back frames 20. The horizontal connecting frame 24 is a plate-like body. The horizontal connecting frame 24 extends along the width direction of the seat.

[0113] The vertical connecting frame 25 is mounted on both sides of the horizontal connecting frame 24 in the seat width direction, between the upper frame 22 and the horizontal connecting frame 24. The vertical connecting frame 25 has a rectangular cross-section and extends in the vertical direction.

[0114] Furthermore, a shoulder brace 30 is installed on the upper part of the seat back frame 20, specifically on the front surface of the vertical connecting frame 25. A lumbar support 35 is provided below the shoulder brace 30, between the horizontal connecting frame 24 and the lower frame 23. The lumbar support 35 is supported by a wire member 26 stretched between the horizontal connecting frame 24 and the lower frame 23.

[0115] One steel wire member 26 is disposed on each of the left and right sides of the seat back frame 20. Specifically, the steel wire members 26 are stretched vertically on the left and right sides of the horizontal connecting frame 24 and the left and right sides of the lower frame 23.

[0116] Furthermore, the seat back frame 20 includes a support pillar mounting member 27 for mounting the support pillar S13c of the headrest S13 in the central portion of the upper frame 22 in the seat width direction.

[0117] like Figure 3 As shown, on the front surface of the left and right vertical connecting frames 25, left and right shoulder supports 30 are installed to support the shoulders of the seated person. The shoulder supports 30 have a shoulder support plate 31 that functions as a base material and a shoulder fluid bag 32 disposed on the shoulder support plate 31.

[0118] A lumbar support 35 is installed on the wire member 26 to support the waist of the seated person. The lumbar support 35 has a lumbar support plate 36 that functions as a base material and a lumbar fluid bag 37 disposed on the lumbar support plate 36.

[0119] <<About Shoulder Braces 30>>

[0120] The shoulder brace 30 is mounted on the back of the seat back pad S12a on the left and right sides in the seat width direction above the seat back S12. The shoulder brace 30 is mounted on the overlapping part of the front surface of the vertical connecting frame 25, which is connected to the horizontal connecting frame 24.

[0121] The shoulder support plate 31 constituting the shoulder brace 30 is a long plate member in the seat width direction. The shoulder support plate 31 is mounted on the front surface of the vertical connecting frame 25 and the front surface of the back side frame 21.

[0122] Shoulder fluid pockets 32 are disposed on the front surface side of the left and right shoulder support plates 31. The shoulder fluid pockets 32 have a long hexagonal shape in the seat width direction and extend outward from the vertical connecting frame 25 in the seat width direction.

[0123] like Figure 4A As shown, three shoulder fluid pockets 32 are provided on the front surface of the shoulder support plate 31.

[0124] The shoulder fluid pocket 32 ​​is mounted to the shoulder support plate 31 via a mounting member 33 located on the inner end of the shoulder support plate 31 in the seat width direction on the front surface. The shoulder fluid pocket 32 ​​protrudes forward toward the front of the seat by injecting compressed air in its retracted state.

[0125] The three shoulder fluid pockets 32 are each of different sizes. Specifically, the first shoulder fluid pocket 32a, located closest to the seat, has a smaller capacity than the second shoulder fluid pocket 32b and the third shoulder fluid pocket 32c. Furthermore, the second shoulder fluid pocket 32b, located behind the first shoulder fluid pocket 32a, has a larger capacity than both the first shoulder fluid pocket 32a and the third shoulder fluid pocket 32c. The third shoulder fluid pocket 33c, located behind the second shoulder fluid pocket 32b, has a larger capacity than the first shoulder fluid pocket 32a but a smaller capacity than the second shoulder fluid pocket 32b.

[0126] like Figure 4A as well as Figure 4B As shown, the first shoulder fluid pocket 32a, the second shoulder fluid pocket 32b, and the third shoulder fluid pocket 32c protrude in different directions by injecting compressed air. Thus, the first shoulder fluid pocket 32a, the second shoulder fluid pocket 32b, and the third shoulder fluid pocket 32c are arranged in different directions, and when compressed air is injected, they expand / contract (bulge and contract) in different directions and with different volumes (protrusion amounts). This allows for flexible adjustment of the protrusion direction or amount of the seat back S12.

[0127] The first shoulder fluid pocket 32a, the second shoulder fluid pocket 2b, and the third shoulder fluid pocket 32c can also be configured to expand and protrude in the initial state (normal state). This helps to prevent wrinkles or excessive expansion of the seat back panel S12b. Furthermore, the number of shoulder fluid pockets 32 is not limited to three. Two shoulder fluid pockets 32 may also be provided, as may four or more.

[0128] The shoulder fluid bag 32 is equivalent to the bag body and the movable body, and is also equivalent to the first movable body and the shoulder movable body.

[0129] The operation of the shoulder fluid bag 32 configured as described above will be explained. The ECU 50, described later, controls the flow of compressed air supplied to the shoulder fluid bag 32. As a result, the shoulder brace 30... Figure 4A The contraction state shown is similar to Figure 4B The deformation between the convex states shown.

[0130] Figure 4A yes Figure 1 The AA cross-sectional view shows the shoulder brace 30 in its retracted state. The shoulder fluid bag 32 is in a retracted state between the shoulder support plate 31 and the cover material S12b in the seat's fore-and-aft direction.

[0131] Figure 4B yes Figure 1 The AA cross-sectional view shows the protruding state of the shoulder support 30. The shoulder fluid bag 32 is configured to expand forward and protrude between the shoulder support plate 31 and the cover material S12b in the fore-and-aft direction of the seat.

[0132] In detail, by receiving compressed air from the actuator 55 (described later), the constricted shoulder fluid bag 32 expands. As a result, the portion of the seat back S12 that supports the occupant's shoulders deforms forward of the seat, becoming... Figure 4B The highlighted state is shown.

[0133] Furthermore, when the compressed air injected into the shoulder fluid bag 32 is expelled, the shoulder fluid bag 32 contracts. As a result, the portion of the seat back S12 that supports the occupant's shoulders deforms backward toward the back of the seat and returns to its original position. Figure 4A The contraction state is shown.

[0134] <<Regarding Lumbar Braces 35>>

[0135] return Figure 3 The lumbar support 35 will be described below. The lumbar support 35 is mounted on the back of the seat back pad S12a, which is located below the shoulder support 30 of the seat back S12.

[0136] The lumbar support plate 36 constituting the lumbar support 35 is a plate member with a generally rectangular shape. The lumbar support plate 36 is erected between the left and right steel wire members 26.

[0137] A waist fluid pocket 37 is supported on the front surface of the waist support plate 36. Like the shoulder fluid pockets 32, the waist fluid pockets 37 have multiple pockets. The multiple waist fluid pockets 37 can have equal or different capacities.

[0138] The waist fluid bag 37 is equivalent to the bag body and the movable body, and is also equivalent to the second movable body and the waist movable body.

[0139] The ECU 50, described later, controls the flow of compressed air relative to the lumbar fluid bag 37. As a result, the lumbar support 35 deforms between a constricted state and a protruding state.

[0140] The lumbar fluid bag 37 receives compressed air from the actuator 55 (described later), thereby expanding from a contracted state. As a result, the portion of the seat back S12 that supports the occupant's waist protrudes forward of the seat.

[0141] Furthermore, when the compressed air injected into the lumbar fluid bag 37 is expelled, the lumbar fluid bag 37 contracts. As a result, the part of the seat back S12 that supports the occupant's waist deforms backward toward the back of the seat and returns to its contracted state.

[0142] <<Functional Structure of Vehicle Seat S1>>

[0143] Next, the functional structure of the vehicle seat S1 will be explained.

[0144] Figure 5 The functional structure of the vehicle seat S1 is shown. As described above, the vehicle seat S1 has shoulder fluid pockets 32 and lumbar fluid pockets 37. Compressed air is supplied to the shoulder fluid pockets 32 and lumbar fluid pockets 37 via an actuator 55. Compressed air supplied from the actuator 55 is injected into the shoulder fluid pockets 32 and lumbar fluid pockets 37 through pipes forming air supply passages. In each air supply passage, a solenoid valve 56 is provided for adjusting the amount of compressed air injected.

[0145] Furthermore, the fluid injected into the shoulder fluid bag 32 and the waist fluid bag 37 is not limited to compressed air. Liquid can also be injected to inflate the shoulder fluid bag 32 or the waist fluid bag 37. The shoulder fluid bag 32 and the waist fluid bag 37 can be either a compressed air bag that expands with compressed air or a liquid bag that expands with liquid, or a combination of both. Compressed air and liquid have different elastic moduli, therefore, by combining compressed air bags and liquid bags, the elasticity of the shoulder fluid bag 32 and the waist fluid bag 37 can be flexibly adjusted.

[0146] Furthermore, the vehicle seat S1 can also have a built-in heater 57. By having a built-in heater 57 in the vehicle seat S1, the body of the person sitting can be heated from the back, which can improve the comfort of the person sitting, especially in winter.

[0147] Furthermore, the vehicle seat S1 may also have a built-in vibration-inducing device 58. By incorporating the vibration-inducing device 58 into the vehicle seat S1, blood flow to the occupant during long drives can be promoted, thus reducing fatigue.

[0148] The vehicle seat S1 includes a control device that controls the actuator 55 and the solenoid valve 56. The control device includes an Electronic Control Unit (ECU) 50 installed within the vehicle. The ECU 50 controls the expansion / contraction of the shoulder fluid pockets 32 and the lumbar fluid pockets 37 by controlling the on / off state of the actuator 55 or the opening degree of the solenoid valve 56. As a result, the shoulders and lumbar region of the vehicle seat S1 deform to conform to the body shape of the occupant, improving occupant support.

[0149] Furthermore, the ECU 50 communicates with various sensors installed in the vehicle via the in-vehicle network, thereby acquiring the detection values ​​of these sensors. These sensors include a weight sensor 40 that can detect the seated state, a vehicle speed sensor 41 that can detect the vehicle speed, a steering angle sensor 42 that can detect the steering angle, a pressure sensor 43 for the shoulder fluid pockets 32 and the waist fluid pockets 37, a bulge pressure sensor 44, and a rotation angle sensor 45.

[0150] The weight sensor 40 detects the load acting on the vehicle seat S1. The ECU 50 can determine the presence or absence of a seat occupant based on the detection value of the weight sensor 40.

[0151] Vehicle speed sensor 41 and steering angle sensor 42 detect the vehicle's driving status. ECU 50 infers the vehicle's driving status based on the detection results from vehicle speed sensor 41 and steering angle sensor 42, and controls the shoulder fluid pockets 32 and lumbar fluid pockets 37 in real time to inflate / contract them. In other words, it controls the amount of compressed air injected into the shoulder fluid pockets 32 and lumbar fluid pockets 37 so that the occupant can adopt an appropriate posture relative to the vehicle's driving status.

[0152] Extrusion pressure sensors 44 are installed in each fluid bag to detect the pressure generated by compressed air injected into the shoulder fluid bag 32 and the waist fluid bag 37. Pressure sensors 43 are installed in each of the fluid bags to detect the load generated by the occupant. Pressure sensors 43 are installed on the front surface of the shoulder fluid bag 32 and the waist fluid bag 37. The ECU 50 controls the amount of compressed air injected into the shoulder fluid bag 32 and the waist fluid bag 37 based on the pressure signals output by the pressure sensors 43 and the extrusion pressure sensors 44. Moreover, the ECU 50 stops the injection of compressed air based on the pressure signals output by the pressure sensors 43 and the extrusion pressure sensors 44 to prevent the shoulder fluid bag 32 and the waist fluid bag 37 from over-inflating.

[0153] The rotation angle sensor 45 detects the rotation angle of the seat backrest S12 relative to the seat cushion S11. The ECU 50 can determine, based on the detection value of the rotation angle sensor 45, that the seat backrest S12 is in a reclining state that has been rotated backward. When the ECU 50 determines that the seat backrest S12 is in a reclining state, it controls the injection of compressed air into the shoulder fluid pockets 32 and the lumbar fluid pockets 37, thereby effectively supporting the shoulders and waist of the occupant in a resting state.

[0154] Figure 5 The diagram illustrates a weight sensor 40, a vehicle speed sensor 41, a steering angle sensor 42, a pressure sensor 43, a bulge pressure sensor 44, and a rotation angle sensor 45, but is not limited to these. For example, it may also include a road surface sensor that detects road conditions by photographing the road surface during driving. Furthermore, the vehicle seat S1 can also detect the vehicle's driving mode (e.g., driving in autonomous driving mode).

[0155] <<About the Functional Structure of the ECU>>

[0156] Figure 6 This indicates the functional structure of ECU 50. For example... Figure 6 As shown, the ECU 50 has an acquisition unit 51, a determination unit 52, and a drive unit 53 as its main functional structures. The ECU 50 loads a program from a non-volatile memory (not shown) and executes it using a processor (not shown), which is a hardware resource, thereby performing the functions of the acquisition unit 51, the determination unit 52, and the drive unit 53.

[0157] The acquisition unit 51 acquires detection values ​​from various sensors installed in the vehicle. Specifically, the acquisition unit 51 acquires detection values ​​from the weight sensor 40, vehicle speed sensor 41, steering angle sensor 42, pressure sensor 43, bulge pressure sensor 44, and rotation angle sensor 45. The acquisition unit 51 has an analog-to-digital converter (ADC) capable of converting analog signals output from various sensors into digital signals. Furthermore, the acquisition unit 51 has a noise removal filter to remove signals containing noise components, thereby improving the signal-to-noise ratio (S / N).

[0158] The determination unit 52 determines the sitting posture of the person sitting based on the detection value acquired by the acquisition unit 51. To explain further, the determination unit 52 determines the posture that matches the sitting posture of the person sitting from five options: "hunchback", "slightly hunchbacked", "ideal posture", "slightly arched back", and "arched back".

[0159] The determination unit 52 has a determination condition table that specifies determination conditions for determining which of the five sitting postures is met. Furthermore, the determination unit 52 determines the sitting posture of the person sitting by comparing the detection values ​​of the pressure sensor 43 and the bulge pressure sensor 44 with the determination conditions specified in the determination condition table.

[0160] The determination of which of the five sitting postures the detection values ​​of pressure sensor 43 and bulge pressure sensor 44 correspond to can be arbitrarily set by editing the judgment condition table. Moreover, the candidate sitting postures are not limited to the five postures, but can be arbitrarily determined.

[0161] The drive unit 53 outputs control signals to the actuator 55 and the solenoid valve 56 based on the determination result of the determination unit 52, so that the seated person can adopt an appropriate posture. As a result, the shoulder fluid pockets 32 and the waist fluid pockets 37 expand or contract. Regarding the determination result of the determination unit 52 and the control of the expansion / contraction of the shoulder fluid pockets 32 and the waist fluid pockets 37 by the drive unit 53, please refer to... Figure 7A as well as Figure 7B Let me explain in more detail.

[0162] Figure 7A This indicates the expansion / contraction state of the shoulder fluid pocket 32 ​​and the waist fluid pocket 37 when the determination unit 52 determines the sitting posture of the person being seated as "hunchback". For example... Figure 7AAs shown, when a "hunchback" is detected, the drive unit 53 causes the shoulder fluid bag 32 to bulge significantly. Furthermore, the drive unit 53 contracts the lumbar fluid bag 37 based on the amount of protrusion (i.e., expansion) of the shoulder fluid bag 32. This reduces the burden on the back of the sitter who is bent backward, thus reducing fatigue and improving comfort. Here, the amount of protrusion of the shoulder fluid bag 32 can be estimated based on the output signal of the bulge pressure sensor 44 installed in the shoulder fluid bag 32. Moreover, the amount of protrusion of the shoulder fluid bag 32 can also be estimated based on the opening degree of the solenoid valve 56.

[0163] Figure 7B This indicates the expansion / contraction state of the shoulder fluid pocket 32 ​​and the waist fluid pocket 37 when the determination unit 52 determines the sitting posture of the person being seated as "arched back". For example... Figure 7B As shown, when a "reverse lumbar arch" is detected, the drive unit 53 causes the lumbar fluid bag 37 to bulge significantly. Furthermore, the drive unit 53 causes the shoulder fluid bag 32 to contract based on the amount of protrusion (i.e., expansion) of the lumbar fluid bag 37. This provides appropriate support for the back of the sitter who is hunched forward, reducing the burden on the sitter and improving fatigue and comfort. Here, the amount of protrusion of the lumbar fluid bag 37 can be estimated based on the output signal of the bulge pressure sensor 44 installed on the lumbar fluid bag 37. Moreover, the amount of protrusion of the lumbar fluid bag 37 can also be estimated based on the opening degree of the solenoid valve 56.

[0164] Thus, when the drive unit 53 controls the protrusion of the shoulder fluid pocket 32 ​​and the waist fluid pocket 37, it controls the protrusion of the other in real time to reduce its size when the protrusion of either one is large. Here, "real time" means that while detecting a large protrusion of either the shoulder fluid pocket 32 ​​or the waist fluid pocket 37, it controls the protrusion of the other to reduce its size, but it does not need to be strictly simultaneous. For example, it is sufficient that the timing of the expansion / contraction of the shoulder fluid pocket 32 ​​and the waist fluid pocket 37 does not deviate and cause discomfort to the occupant.

[0165] Here, the drive unit 53 compares the pressure signal output by the bulge pressure sensor 44 with a predetermined threshold value, and stops or limits the supply of compressed air based on the comparison result. In other words, when the detection value of the bulge pressure sensor 44 exceeds the predetermined value, the amount of compressed air supplied to the shoulder fluid pocket 32 ​​and the waist fluid pocket 37 is limited. This prevents the shoulder fluid pocket 32 ​​and the waist fluid pocket 37 from over-inflating, and allows for appropriate support of the occupant based on their posture and body shape. Therefore, the occupant can adopt a comfortable posture.

[0166] Furthermore, the drive unit 53 can also control the amount of compressed air injected into the shoulder fluid pockets 32 and the lumbar fluid pockets 37 based on the detection values ​​of the vehicle speed sensor 41 and the steering angle sensor 42. For example, the drive unit 53 can also estimate the load borne by the occupant based on the vehicle speed signal output by the vehicle speed sensor 41 and the steering angle signal output by the steering angle sensor 42, and inflate the shoulder fluid pockets 32 and the lumbar fluid pockets 37 in real time based on the estimation result. As a result, the occupant's support can be rapidly improved.

[0167] Furthermore, the drive unit 53 can also control the expansion / contraction of the shoulder fluid pocket 32 ​​and the waist fluid pocket 37 based on the output signals of the road surface sensor, signals related to the driving mode (e.g., signals indicating that the vehicle is in autonomous driving mode), or the output signal of the rotation angle sensor 45. This allows for flexible support of the occupant based on driving conditions or the occupant's posture, reducing the occupant's burden.

[0168] The description assumes that the drive unit 53 controls the actuator 55 and the solenoid valve 56 based on the determination result of the determination unit 52, but it is not limited to this. The drive unit 53 may also control the protrusion of either the shoulder fluid bag 32 or the waist fluid bag 37 based on the protrusion amount of either one, regardless of the determination result of the determination unit 52. This allows for more rapid control of the protrusion amounts of the shoulder fluid bag 32 and the waist fluid bag 37. However, by determining the posture of the occupant using the determination unit 52 and controlling the expansion / contraction of the shoulder fluid bag 32 and the waist fluid bag 37 based on the determination result, the drive unit can more accurately support the occupant according to their posture. Therefore, a comfortable posture can be adopted for the occupant.

[0169] <<First Variation>>

[0170] The structure of the vehicle seat S1 has been described above, but the described embodiments are merely examples for the purpose of understanding the present invention and do not limit the present invention. That is, the present invention can be modified and improved without departing from its spirit, and its equivalents are naturally included in the present invention.

[0171] Reference Figure 8 The first modified shoulder brace 30A will be described below. In the described embodiment, the shoulder brace 30 is described as having a shoulder support plate 31 and a shoulder fluid bag 32. In contrast, the first modified shoulder brace 30A has a shoulder support plate 31, an inner shoulder fluid bag 32A disposed on the inner side in the left-right direction, and an outer shoulder fluid bag 32B disposed on the outer side.

[0172] The pressure sensor 43 and the bulging pressure sensor 44 are respectively installed in the inner shoulder fluid bag 32A and the outer shoulder fluid bag 32B. Furthermore, the ECU 50 controls the supply of compressed air based on the detection values ​​of the pressure sensor 43 and the bulging pressure sensor 44. In detail, the determination unit 52 of the ECU 50 determines the body shape of the occupant (more specifically, the occupant's shoulder width) based on the detection values ​​of the pressure sensor 43 and the bulging pressure sensor 44. If the determination unit 52 determines that the occupant's shoulder width is narrow, the drive unit 53 inflates the inner shoulder fluid bag 32A. Conversely, if the determination unit 52 determines that the occupant's shoulder width is wide, the drive unit 53 inflates the outer shoulder fluid bag 32B. Thus, the support for the occupant can be improved according to their body shape.

[0173] Furthermore, the drive unit 53 estimates the centrifugal force experienced by the passenger based on the detection values ​​of the vehicle speed sensor 41 and the steering angle sensor 42, and inflates the inner shoulder fluid pocket 32A and the outer shoulder fluid pocket 32B based on the estimated results. This allows for appropriate support of the passenger relative to the centrifugal force experienced during driving.

[0174] The inner shoulder fluid bag 32A is equivalent to the inner first movable body, and the outer shoulder fluid bag 32B is equivalent to the outer first movable body.

[0175] <<Second Variation>>

[0176] Next, the second modified vehicle seat S1 will be described. The second modified vehicle seat S1 includes a force-applying member 34 on the inner side of the shoulder support 30 in the seat width direction. The force-applying member 34 applies force forward to the seat back pad S12a and the outer cover material S12b around the sitter's shoulder blade.

[0177] Figure 9 This is a front view of the seat back frame 20B of the second variation. (See attached image.) Figure 9 As shown, in the second embodiment, a force-applying member 34 is installed on the front surface of the shoulder support 30 and the horizontally connected frame 24, inside the seat width direction of the shoulder support 30.

[0178] like Figure 10A As shown, the force-applying member 34 includes a plate 34a, a rotating shaft 34b, and an elastic member (not shown). The plate 34a is subjected to a forward force by the elastic member containing a torsion spring. Furthermore, the plate 34a... Figure 10BAs shown, the seat back pad S12a and the outer cover material S12b, located in front of the plate 34a, are rotated around the rotation axis 34b extending in the vertical direction, causing them to protrude forward. This prevents the back of the occupant from leaving the seat back S12 when the occupant operates the steering wheel, thereby improving back support.

[0179] Furthermore, the structure of the force-applying member 34 is not limited to the structure described above. For example, a torsion spring has been described as the elastic member, but a fluid bag could also be used. In this case, by supplying fluid to the fluid bag, the plate 34a is forced forward. Moreover, by controlling the fluid supplied to the fluid bag, the applied force can be flexibly adjusted.

[0180] <<Third Variation>>

[0181] In the third variation, the force-applying member 34 replaces the plate 34a and has a fluid bag 34c. For example... Figure 11A As shown, the force-applying member 34 includes a fluid bag 34c, a rotating shaft 34b, and an elastic member (not shown). The fluid bag 34c is subjected to forward force, for example, by the elastic member including a torsion spring. Furthermore, the fluid bag 34c... Figure 11B As shown, the seat back pad S12a and the outer material S12b, located in front of the fluid bag 34c, are rotated around a pivot axis 34b extending vertically, causing them to protrude forward. This improves back support around the scapulae of the occupant. Furthermore, the amount of protrusion of the seat back pad S12a and the outer material S12b can be flexibly adjusted by controlling the compressed air supplied to the fluid bag 34c.

[0182] Furthermore, the expansion / contraction of the fluid bag 34c can be controlled based on the detection values ​​of the vehicle speed sensor 41 and the steering angle sensor 42 to adjust the protrusion of the seat back pad S12a and the surface material S12b in real time.

[0183] <Second Implementation>

[0184] The following is for reference Figures 12 to 14 The vehicle seat according to the second embodiment will be described below. The vehicle seat of the second embodiment has a center-folding seat back frame 220. Furthermore, the vehicle seat of the second embodiment includes: a rotation angle sensor 245, which detects the rotation angle of the seat back frame 220 relative to the seat cushion frame 210; and a center-folding angle sensor 246, which detects the center-folding angle of the seat back frame 220. The ECU 250, responsible for controlling the vehicle seat, determines whether the vehicle seat is in a reclining state based on the detection values ​​of the rotation angle sensor 245 and the center-folding angle sensor 246, and controls the expansion / contraction of the shoulder fluid pockets 232 provided on the shoulder brace 230 based on the determination result.

[0185] <<Main Structure of the Seat Frame>>

[0186] Figure 12 This is a perspective view of the seat frame 201 according to the second embodiment. The seat frame 201 has the seat cushion frame 210 and the seat back frame 220 as its main components.

[0187] The seat back frame 220 is a roughly rectangular frame that can rotate about the pivot 202 relative to the seat cushion frame 210. The seat back frame 220 mainly includes left and right back side frames 221, an upper frame 222, and a lower frame 223.

[0188] The seat back frame 220 also includes: a horizontal connecting frame 224 that connects the upper portions of the left and right back side frames 221; and a vertical connecting frame 225 that connects the upper frame 222 and the horizontal connecting frame 224.

[0189] There is one backrest side frame 221 on each side of the seat backrest frame 220. The backrest side frame 221 extends in the vertical direction.

[0190] The back side frame 221 has: a lower side frame 221a; a connecting frame 221b, which is mounted on the upper end of the lower side frame 221a and can rotate in the front-rear direction relative to the lower side frame 221a; and a drive mechanism 260 that rotates the connecting frame 221b.

[0191] The lower ends of the left and right lower side frames 221a are provided with lower frame 223 to connect the lower side frames 221a.

[0192] The left and right connecting frames 221b are rotatably connected to the upper ends of the lower frame 221a around the central hinge 227. Furthermore, the connecting frames 221b connect the left and right lower frames 221a to the vertical portion 222a extending vertically below the upper frame 222. The connecting frames 221b and the vertical portion 222a correspond to the upper frame.

[0193] The upper frame 222 has a horizontal portion 222b that is spaced between the vertical portions 222a and connects the vertical portions 222a. The horizontal portion 222b corresponds to the upper frame.

[0194] Shoulder supports 230 are installed on the left and right vertical connecting frames 225 to support the shoulders of the seated person. Shoulder fluid pockets 232 are provided on the front surface of the shoulder supports 230. The shoulder fluid pockets 232 are positioned where they are sandwiched between the left and right vertical portions 222a in the width direction of the seat.

[0195] Below the shoulder brace 230, a lumbar support 235 is provided, supported by a steel wire member 226 to support the lumbar region of the seated person. A lumbar fluid bag 237 is provided on the front surface of the shoulder brace 230.

[0196] The shoulder fluid pockets 232 and the lumbar fluid pockets 237 are supplied with fluid and inflated when the back side frame 221 is in a leaning position. This improves the comfort of the occupant resting in the vehicle seat S201.

[0197] Next, the drive mechanism 260 will be explained.

[0198] Figure 13 This is a side view of the back side frame 221, and an enlarged view of the main part of the drive mechanism 260. The drive mechanism 260 includes an actuator 261, a connecting rod member 262, a first connecting member 263, and a second connecting member 264.

[0199] like Figure 13 As shown, actuator 261 is located above and fixed relative to lower frame 221a. A lifting rod 261a is mounted at the front end of actuator 261. The lifting rod 261a is driven by actuator 261 to move up and down.

[0200] The front end of the lifting rod 261a is connected to the connecting rod member 262 via the first connecting member 263. The first connecting member 263 is guided by an elongated hole 228 formed on the side of the lower frame 221a, and moves up and down together with the lifting rod 261a and the connecting rod member 262.

[0201] The link member 262 has an elongated shape and extends vertically. The link member 262 is rotatably connected to the lifting rod 261a on the lower side via the first link member 263. Furthermore, the link member 262 is rotatably connected to the connecting frame 221b on the upper side via the second link member 264.

[0202] To explain the operation of the drive mechanism 260 configured as described above, the actuator 261 is driven by the occupant performing a center-folding adjustment operation. When the actuator 261 is driven, the lifting rod 261a and the first connecting member 263 are guided upward by the elongated hole 228. At this time, the connecting rod member 262 tilts rearward about the first connecting member 263 as an axis and pushes the second connecting member 264 upward. As a result, the connecting frame 221b, which is rotatably connected to the second connecting member 264, rotates about the center-folding axis 227 relative to the lower frame 221a.

[0203] <<About the Functional Structure of ECU 250>>

[0204] Next, we will explain ECU 250. Figure 14 This describes the functional structure of ECU 250. ECU 250 includes an acquisition unit 251, a determination unit 252, and a drive unit 253.

[0205] The acquisition unit 251 acquires the detection values ​​of the weight sensor 40, vehicle speed sensor 41, steering angle sensor 42, pressure sensor 43, bulge pressure sensor 44, rotation angle sensor 245, and center angle sensor 246.

[0206] The rotation angle sensor 245 can detect the rotation angle of the seat back frame 220 relative to the seat cushion frame 210. The center fold angle sensor 246 can detect the center fold angle of the connecting frame 221b relative to the lower frame 221a.

[0207] The rotation angle output by the rotation angle sensor 245 is equivalent to the first rotation angle signal, and the mid-angle detected by the mid-angle sensor 246 is equivalent to the second rotation angle signal.

[0208] The determination unit 252 determines the state of the seat back frame 220 based on the rotation angle detected by the rotation angle sensor 245 and the center angle sensor 246. To be further explained, the determination unit 252 determines whether the seat back frame 220 is in a "normal state" or a "leaning state".

[0209] The so-called normal state refers to, for example, the state in which the seat back frame 220 is roughly upright relative to the seat cushion frame 210, and the state in which the connecting frame 221b is not folded in the middle relative to the lower frame 221a.

[0210] On the other hand, the so-called leaning state refers to the state in which the seat back frame 220 tilts backward relative to the seat cushion frame 210, and the connecting frame 221b rotates and folds in the middle relative to the lower frame 221a.

[0211] The determination unit 252 has a determination condition table specifying determination conditions, which are used to determine whether the seat back frame 220 is in a normal state or a leaning state based on the combination of detection values ​​from the rotation angle sensor 245 and the center angle sensor 246. Furthermore, the determination unit 252 compares the detection values ​​acquired by the acquisition unit 251 with the determination conditions specified in the determination condition table to determine whether the seat back frame 220 is in a "normal state" or a "leaning state".

[0212] The drive unit 253 controls the expansion / contraction of the shoulder fluid pockets 32 and the lumbar fluid pockets 37 based on the determination result of the determination unit 252. When the drive unit 253 determines that the seat back frame 220 is in a reclining state, it expands the shoulder fluid pockets 232 and the lumbar fluid pockets 237 to support the occupant's load using the shoulder brace 230 and the lumbar brace 235. In this way, the comfort of the occupant resting in the reclining state of the vehicle seat of this embodiment can be further improved. Moreover, by providing the shoulder fluid pockets 232 and the lumbar fluid pockets 237 in the seat back frame 220 folded in the connecting frame 221b and the vertical portion 222a, more precise adjustment of posture support can be achieved.

[0213] <Third Implementation Method>

[0214] The following is for reference Figures 15 to 17 The vehicle seat according to the third embodiment will now be described. The vehicle seat of the third embodiment includes a shoulder brace 330 and a lumbar support 335, both adjustable in height. The shoulder brace 330 is controlled by an ECU 350 to move up and down in a manner corresponding to the position of the lumbar support 335. An expandable / contractable shoulder fluid bag 332 is installed in the shoulder brace 330.

[0215] <<Structure of the Seat Back Frame>>

[0216] Figure 15 This is a perspective view of the seat back frame 320 of the vehicle seat according to the third embodiment. The seat back frame 320 is a generally rectangular frame and is rotatable relative to the seat cushion frame.

[0217] like Figure 16 As shown, the seat back frame 320 mainly includes left and right back side frames 321, upper frame 322, lower frame 323, and support device 360 ​​with lifting function.

[0218] There is one backrest side frame 321 on each side of the seat backrest frame 320. The backrest side frame 321 extends in the vertical direction.

[0219] The upper ends of the left and right back side frames 321 are separated by an upper frame 322 to connect the left and right back side frames 321.

[0220] The lower ends of the left and right back side frames 321 are provided with lower frames 323 to connect the left and right back side frames 321.

[0221] Two mounting holes 323a are formed at the center of the lower frame 323 in the left-right direction, and are arranged apart from each other. The mounting holes 323a extend through the lower frame 323 in the front-back direction. The mounting holes 323a are for fasteners such as screws to be inserted to fix the lower connecting structure member (not shown) of the support device 360 ​​described later to the lower frame 323.

[0222] The seat back frame 320 also has a horizontal connecting frame 324 that connects the upper portion of the left and right back side frames 321.

[0223] The horizontal connecting frame 324 has a lower flange 324a extending forward at its lower edge. Support holes 324b are formed at both ends of the lower flange 324a in the left-right direction. The support holes 324b extend vertically. The support holes 324b are through which the support wire 363 of the support device 360 ​​(described later) is inserted. The support wire 363 is fixed in a suspended state from the horizontal connecting frame 324.

[0224] The brace 360 ​​supports the load generated when the occupant leans against the back of the seat. The brace 360 ​​has a lifting mechanism 370 that allows the shoulder brace 330 and lumbar brace 335 supporting the occupant's shoulders and waist to be raised or lowered to support the appropriate parts corresponding to the occupant's body shape.

[0225] The bracing device 360 ​​has a pressure-bearing member 361 and a support member 362 as its main structures.

[0226] The pressure-bearing member 361 is flexible and is a plate-shaped member containing resin material. The pressure-bearing member 361 extends vertically and is capable of bearing loads from the back and waist of the seated person.

[0227] The pressure-bearing member 361 has a central portion 361a located in the left-right direction and side portions 361b extending from the central portion 361a to both sides in the left-right direction. Multiple openings are formed in the central portion 361a and the side portions 361b. Furthermore, the side portions 361b have multiple protrusions. Thus, the pressure-bearing member 361 can ensure the necessary flexibility to bear the load from the back and waist of the seated person. In other words, the pressure-bearing member 361 can deform in both the up-down and left-right directions while the seated person is seated, thus providing wrapping support for the seated person's back and waist.

[0228] Left and right mounting hooks 361c are formed at the upper end of the pressure-bearing member 361. The mounting hooks 361c are engaged with the locking portion 364d of the support member 362, which will be described later.

[0229] The support member 362 supports the compression member 361 from behind.

[0230] like Figure 17As shown, the support member 362 has a support wire 363, an upper fixed plate 364, a guide wire 365, a lower fixed plate 366, a first movable plate 367, a second movable plate 368, a third movable plate 369, and a lifting mechanism 370 as its main structures. A shoulder brace 330 is installed on the first movable plate 367. A waist brace 335 is installed between the second movable plate 368 and the third movable plate 369.

[0231] The support wires 363 are a pair of left and right wires that are fixed to the horizontal connecting frame 324 and suspend the support member 362. The upper ends of the support wires 363 are inserted into the left and right support holes 324b formed in the horizontal connecting frame 324 of the seat back frame 320 and fixed to the horizontal connecting frame 324. The lower ends of the support wires 363 are connected to the horizontal support tube 364b disposed on the upper part of the upper fixing plate 364.

[0232] The upper fixing plate 364 is located above the support member 362. The upper fixing plate 364 has an upper fixing plate body 364a, a horizontal support tube 364b, and left and right vertical support tubes 364c.

[0233] The upper fixing plate body 364a is a long, plate-like body extending in the left-right direction. A first upper fixing member 374a of the lifting mechanism 370 (described later) is fixed to the upper fixing plate body 364a. Furthermore, a pair of locking portions 364d (see reference) are formed on the left and right sides of the first upper fixing member 374a on the upper fixing plate body 364a. Figure 16 ), which can latch the mounting hook 361c of the pressure-bearing component 361.

[0234] The horizontal support tube 364b extends along the upper edge of the upper fixed plate body 364a in the left-right direction. The horizontal support tube 364b is a circular tubular body. Supporting steel wires 363 are fixed at both ends of the horizontal support tube 364b in the left-right direction.

[0235] The left and right vertical support tubes 364c extend vertically from the left and right ends of the upper fixed plate body 365a. The vertical support tubes 364c are hollow circular tubular bodies. Inside the vertical support tubes 364c, the upper end of the guide wires 365 (described later) is inserted and fixed.

[0236] The guide wire 365 is a steel wire extending in the vertical direction, and two wires are arranged parallel to each other, separated from each other on the left and right. The guide wire 365 guides the lifting and lowering movements of the first movable plate 367, the second movable plate 368, and the third movable plate 369, which will be described later. The lower end of the guide wire 365 is fixed to the left and right ends of the lower fixed plate 366.

[0237] The lower fixing plate 366 is located below the support member 362. The lower fixing plate 366 is a long strip-shaped plate extending in the left-right direction.

[0238] On the rear side of the lower fixing plate 366, a protrusion 366a is provided at a left-right separation position. The protrusion 366a abuts against the front surface of the lower frame 323 when the support member 362 is assembled to the seat back frame 320.

[0239] A through hole 366b is formed on the inner side of the protrusion 366a in the left-right direction of the lower fixing plate 366. The through hole 366b is used to install a lower connecting member (not shown) that connects the support member 362 relative to the lower frame 323.

[0240] The lower connecting structural member is fixed to the mounting hole 323a formed in the lower frame 323 using fastening components such as screws.

[0241] The first movable plate 367, the second movable plate 368, and the third movable plate 369 are plate-shaped bodies that can be raised and lowered by the lifting mechanism 370 described later.

[0242] The first movable plate 367 is positioned above the second movable plate 368 and the third movable plate 369. On the first movable plate 367, guide portions 367a extending vertically are formed on both sides in the left-right direction. The left and right guide portions 367a have grooves that allow them to slide along left and right guide wires 365 extending parallel to each other in the vertical direction.

[0243] Shoulder supports 330 are fixed to both ends of the first movable plate 367 in the left and right directions. The shoulder supports 330, like those in the described embodiment, are equipped with shoulder fluid bags 332 (see reference). Figure 15 By injecting or draining fluid into the shoulder fluid pocket 332, the shoulder fluid pocket 332 can be expanded / contracted. As described later, the shoulder brace 330 is linked to the lumbar brace 335 and moves up and down. Thus, the shoulders of the sitter can be supported at an appropriate position corresponding to the body shape of the sitter, improving the sitter's support.

[0244] The second movable plate 368 is located below the first movable plate 367 and above the third movable plate 369. The second movable plate 368 has vertically extending guide portions 368a formed at both ends in the left-right direction. The left and right guide portions 368a have grooves that can slide along left and right guide wires 365 extending in the vertical direction.

[0245] The third movable plate 369 is located below the first movable plate 367 and the second movable plate 368. The third movable plate 369 has vertically extending guide portions 369a formed at both ends in the left-right direction. The left and right guide portions 369a have grooves that can slide along left and right guide wires 365 extending in the vertical direction.

[0246] The lumbar support 335 is a strip-shaped body located between the second movable plate 368 and the third movable plate 369 and mounted on both sides. The lumbar support 335 extends vertically. The upper end of the lumbar support 335 is fixed to the second movable plate 368. The lower end of the lumbar support 335 is fixed to the third movable plate 369.

[0247] The lumbar support 335 deforms based on the relative positions of the second movable plate 368 and the third movable plate 369. In detail, when the second movable plate 368 and the third movable plate 369 move from a position separated from each other to a position closer together, the lumbar support 335 bends forward and bulges out. This allows it to support the sitter's lower back at an appropriate position corresponding to the sitter's body shape, improving sitter support.

[0248] The lifting mechanism 370 drives the first movable plate 367, the second movable plate 368, and the third movable plate 369 to change their positions in the vertical direction. The lifting mechanism 370 includes a lead screw 371, a motor 372, a transmission component 373, and a fixing component 374.

[0249] The lead screw 371 is a rod-shaped body with male threads formed on its outer peripheral surface, extending in the vertical direction. The lead screw 371 has a first lead screw 371a, a second lead screw 371b, and a third lead screw 371c.

[0250] The first lead screw 371a transmits the driving force of the first motor 372a to the third movable plate 369, thereby causing the third movable plate 369 to move in the up and down direction.

[0251] The upper end of the first lead screw 371a is fixed to the upper fixing plate 364 by the first upper fixing member 374a. The lower end of the first lead screw 371a is fixed to the lower fixing plate 366 by the first lower fixing member 374b.

[0252] The second lead screw 371b transmits the driving force of the second motor 372b to the second movable plate 368, thereby causing the second movable plate 368 to be displaced relative to the third movable plate 369.

[0253] The upper end of the second lead screw 371b is fixed to the second movable plate 368 by the second upper fixing member 374c. The lower end of the second lead screw 371b is not fixed.

[0254] The third lead screw 371c transmits the driving force of the third motor 372c to the first movable plate 367, thereby causing the first movable plate 367 to be displaced relative to the third movable plate 369.

[0255] The upper end of the third lead screw 371c is fixed to the first movable plate 367 by the third upper fixing member 374d. The lower end of the third lead screw 371c is not fixed.

[0256] Motor 372 is an electric motor that converts electrical energy into rotational energy. Motor 372 has a first motor 372a, a second motor 372b, and a third motor 372c. The first motor 372a, the second motor 372b, and the third motor 372c are fixed to a third movable plate 369.

[0257] The transmission member 373 transmits the rotational energy of the motor 372 to the lead screw 371 by engaging with the output shaft of the motor 372. The transmission member 373 has a first transmission member 373a, a second transmission member 373b, and a third transmission member 373c. The first transmission member 373a, the second transmission member 373b, and the third transmission member 373c are fixed to a third movable plate 369. The transmission member 373 can move up and down relative to the lead screw 371.

[0258] The first motor 372a and the first transmission member 373a drive the third movable plate 369 to move it in the vertical direction. The first motor 372a and the first transmission member 373a, together with the third movable plate 369, move in the vertical direction relative to the support device 360.

[0259] The second motor 372b and the second transmission member 373b drive the second movable plate 368 to move it in the vertical direction. The second movable plate 368 and the second lead screw 371b move together in the vertical direction relative to the third movable plate 369.

[0260] The third motor 372c and the third transmission member 373c drive the first movable plate 367 to move it in the vertical direction. The first movable plate 367 and the third lead screw 371c move together in the vertical direction relative to the third movable plate 369.

[0261] The operation of the brace device 360 ​​configured as described above will be explained. The first motor 372a is driven by the user performing the raising and lowering operation of the shoulder brace 330 and the lumbar brace 335. The driving force of the first motor 372a is transmitted to the first lead screw 371a via the first transmission member 373a, causing the third movable plate 369 to rise and fall in the vertical direction. At this time, the first movable plate 367 and the second movable plate 368 also rise and fall in the vertical direction in conjunction with the third movable plate 369.

[0262] Here, when the second motor 372b is driven, the driving force of the second motor 372b is transmitted to the second lead screw 371b via the second transmission member 373b, and the second movable plate 368 moves up and down relative to the third movable plate 369. When the distance between the second movable plate 368 and the third movable plate 369 decreases, the lumbar support 335 deforms and bulges forward. This provides adequate support for the occupant's lower back.

[0263] The third motor 372c drives the shoulder brace 330 to rise and fall in conjunction with the lumbar support 335 in the vertical direction. The driving force of the third motor 372c is transmitted to the third lead screw 371c via the third transmission member 373c. As a result, the first movable plate 367, on which the shoulder brace 330 is mounted, rises and falls vertically relative to the third movable plate 369. In this way, by linking the vertical position of the shoulder brace 330 with the position of the lumbar support 335, the shoulder brace 330 and the lumbar support 335 can be positioned appropriately according to the body shape of the occupant. Therefore, the comfort of the occupant can be improved.

[0264] Furthermore, the ECU 350 in the third embodiment can also be controlled based on road conditions, steering wheel angle, driving mode, and seat back rotation angle to inflate / contract the shoulder fluid bag 332 mounted on the shoulder brace 330. This allows for appropriate support of the occupant based on their body shape and driving conditions.

[0265] The lumbar support 335 has been described as a strip-shaped body located between the second movable plate 368 and the third movable plate 369 and mounted on both sides, but it is not limited to this. The lumbar support 335 may also be a lumbar fluid bag disposed on either the second movable plate 368 or the third movable plate 369. In this case, it can be controlled to expand / contract the lumbar support 335 by fluid supplied to the lumbar fluid bag.

[0266] <Fourth Implementation>

[0267] The following is for reference Figures 18 to 20The vehicle seat S401 according to the fourth embodiment will be described. The vehicle seat S401 has shoulder supports 430 and side supports 460 on both sides in the seat width direction. Multiple shoulder fluid pockets are built into the shoulder supports 430. Similarly, multiple side fluid pockets 462 are built into the side supports 460. The shoulder fluid pockets and side fluid pockets 462 expand by injecting compressed air and contract by discharging compressed air. The multiple shoulder fluid pockets and multiple side fluid pockets 462 have different sizes, are arranged in different directions, and protrude in different directions. Therefore, the seat can appropriately and flexibly support the occupant's body from the side according to their body shape, thereby improving the occupant's support and increasing their sense of security.

[0268] <<Basic Structure of Vehicle Seats>>

[0269] Figure 18 This is a perspective view showing the basic structure of the vehicle seat S401 according to the fourth embodiment. (As shown) Figure 18 As shown, the vehicle seat S401 has a seat cushion S411, a seat back S412, and a headrest S413 as its main structures.

[0270] The seat back S412 has a built-in seat back frame 420 (see reference). Figure 19 ), respectively configured in the outer skin material S412b (refer to Figure 20 The inner side of the shoulder brace 430, waist brace 435 and side brace 460.

[0271] Figure 19 This is a front view of the seat back frame 420, which forms the skeleton of the vehicle seat S401. (See attached image.) Figure 19 As shown, the seat back frame 420 is a roughly rectangular frame.

[0272] The seat back frame 420 mainly includes left and right back side frames 421, an upper frame 422, and a lower frame 423. Furthermore, a pressure-bearing member 424 is provided between the seat back frame 420 and the seat back pad (not shown). The pressure-bearing member 424 is a resin-made plate-like body that bears the pressure exerted from the back and waist of the occupant.

[0273] The pressure-bearing member 424 has an upper portion 424a located at the top, a central portion 424b that is wider than the upper portion 424a, and a lower portion 424c extending downward. The upper portion 424a, the central portion 424b, and the lower portion 424c are integrally formed to constitute a pressure-bearing member 424.

[0274] Shoulder fluid pockets 432 constituting shoulder braces 430 are fixed on both sides of the upper part 424a in the front and left-right directions. By using the pressure member 424 as a fixing member for the shoulder fluid pockets 432, the number of parts can be reduced compared to the case where a separate support member is provided, thereby simplifying the structure of the seat back frame 420.

[0275] The central portion 424b is positioned between the back side frames 421. The central portion 424b curves and protrudes slightly forward relative to the portion located at the two ends in the width direction of the seat, relative to the portion located in the center in the width direction of the seat.

[0276] The width of the lower part 424c is narrower than that of the upper part 424a, and its lower end extends downward to the vicinity of the lower frame 423.

[0277] A lumbar fluid bag 437, constituting a lumbar support 435, is installed at a position spanning the central portion 424b and the lower portion 424c. By utilizing the pressure member 424 as a fixing member for the lumbar fluid bag 437, the number of parts can be reduced compared to providing a separate support member, thereby simplifying the structure of the seat back frame 420.

[0278] The pressure-bearing member 424 constructed in the above manner is mounted to the seat back frame 420 using an elastic support wire 425. The pressure-bearing member 424, which is fixed to the seat back frame 420 by the support wire 425, is flexible and can bear the load from the back and waist of the occupant.

[0279] Furthermore, a side fluid bag 462 constituting a side support 460 is installed on the back side frame 421 located on the left and right outer side of the lower part 424c of the pressure member 424.

[0280] Figure 20 express Figure 19 CC cross-section view. (See attached image.) Figure 20 As shown, three side fluid bags 462 are installed in a stacked manner in the side support 460. Each side fluid bag 462 expands by injecting compressed air and contracts by discharging compressed air. The side fluid bags 462 are stacked when contracting.

[0281] Each side fluid pocket 462 has a different size. Furthermore, each side fluid pocket 462 is arranged in a different direction and protrudes in a different direction by injecting compressed air. Therefore, the side brace 460 can deform into a suitable and flexible shape according to the body shape of the person sitting, thereby supporting the person's body from the side. Thus, it is possible to improve the person's support and increase their sense of security.

[0282] The side fluid bag 462 is equivalent to a movable body, and also to a third movable body.

[0283] Furthermore, the ECU 450 in the fourth embodiment can also control the expansion / contraction of the shoulder fluid pockets 432, waist fluid pockets 37, and side fluid pockets 462 based on road conditions, steering wheel angle, driving mode, and backrest rotation angle. This allows for appropriate support of the occupant based on their body shape and the vehicle's driving conditions.

[0284] <Fifth Implementation>

[0285] The following is for reference Figure 21 as well as Figure 22 The fifth embodiment of the vehicle seat will now be described. In the previous embodiment, shoulder fluid pockets 32 and lumbar fluid pockets 37 were provided in the seat back frame. In contrast, the fifth embodiment of the vehicle seat has thigh fluid pockets 540 in the seat cushion frame 510. The ECU of the fifth embodiment of the vehicle seat controls the expansion and contraction of the thigh fluid pockets 540. This suppresses thrombosis (economy class syndrome) caused by poor blood flow due to prolonged maintenance of the same posture, without hindering the passenger's pedal operation.

[0286] <<Basic Structure of Seat Cushion Frame>>

[0287] Figure 21 This is a perspective view of the seat cushion frame 510 according to the fifth embodiment. The seat cushion frame 510 serves as the skeleton of the seat cushion (not shown). The seat cushion frame 510 is covered by the seat cushion liner (not shown) and the outer material (not shown).

[0288] like Figure 21 as well as Figure 22 As shown, the seat cushion frame 510 has a cushion side frame 511 as a side frame, a base frame 512, a front tube 513, and a rear tube 514 as its main structures.

[0289] There is one cushioning side frame 511 on each side of the seat cushioning frame 510. The cushioning side frame 511 is a plate-like body extending in the front-to-back direction.

[0290] The base frame 512 is located at the front end of the left and right buffer pad side frames 511 and connects the left and right buffer pad side frames 511. The base frame 512 is a plate-shaped body extending in the left and right direction.

[0291] Left and right thigh fluid bags 540 are installed on the upper surface of the base frame 512. The thigh fluid bags 540 expand and contract by controlling the supply of compressed air. Therefore, they can stimulate the inner thighs of the seated person and inhibit the deterioration of blood flow in the lower limbs.

[0292] The front tube 513 is located at the rear of the base frame 512 and connects to the left and right buffer pad side frames 511.

[0293] The rear tube 514 is located at the rear end of the left and right buffer pad side frames 511 and connects the left and right buffer pad side frames 511.

[0294] The seat cushion frame 510 has a pressure-bearing member 520 and left and right support members 530.

[0295] The pressure-bearing member 520 is a component that bears the load of the seated person via the pad S2b. The pressure-bearing member 520 is disposed between the left and right cushion side frames 511. The pressure-bearing member 520 has three steel wires 521 spanned between the front tube 513 and the rear tube 514, a front pressure plate 522, a central pressure plate 523, and a rear pressure plate 524 connecting the steel wires 521. The front pressure plate 522, the central pressure plate 523, and the rear pressure plate 524 are flexible resin components, but are not limited to this. The front pressure plate 522, the central pressure plate 523, and the rear pressure plate 524 may also be elastic components containing rubber or the like.

[0296] Steel wire 521 is installed between the front tube 513 and the rear tube 514, at both ends and the center in the left and right directions. Steel wire 521 supports the front pressure plate 522, the central pressure plate 523 and the rear pressure plate 524.

[0297] The front pressure plate 522 is located in front of the central pressure plate 523 and the rear pressure plate 524. The front pressure plate 522 is supported on the steel wire 521 via a supported portion (not shown) formed on its lower surface. The supported portion is formed at both ends and in the center in the left-right direction.

[0298] The front pressure plate 522 is a plate-like body that supports the thighs of the seated person. The front pressure plate 522 has the flexibility to deform when bearing the load of the thighs.

[0299] The central pressure plate 523 is located behind the front pressure plate 522 at a predetermined interval, and is positioned in front of the rear pressure plate 524. The central pressure plate 523 is supported on the steel wire 521 via a supported portion formed on its lower surface. The supported portion is formed at both ends and in the center in the left-right direction. The central pressure plate 523 is arranged substantially parallel to the horizontal plane.

[0300] The central pressure plate 523 is a plate-like body that supports the thighs and buttocks of the seated person. The central pressure plate 523 has the flexibility to deform when bearing the load of the thighs and buttocks.

[0301] In the central pressure plate 523, a through hole 523b is formed at a position corresponding to the ischium of the sitter. The left and right through holes 523b are arranged at intervals along the left and right direction. The through holes 523b suppress the concentration of load from the sitter's ischium. In other words, by forming the through hole 523b below the sitter's ischium, the load from the ischium can be distributed to the periphery of the through hole 523b. As a result, the comfort of the sitter during long periods of sitting can be improved.

[0302] Four slits 523c extending laterally are formed at the edge of the through hole 523b. By forming slits 523c at the edge of the through hole 523b, the central pressure plate 523 can ensure the strength required to bear the load from the thighs of the sitter, while also deforming to follow the shape of the sitter's buttocks. Therefore, the support for the sitter can be improved.

[0303] The rear pressure plate 524 is located at the rear, separated from the front pressure plate 522 and the central pressure plate 523 by a predetermined interval. The rear pressure plate 524 is supported on the steel wire 521 via a supported portion (not shown) formed on its lower surface. The supported portion is formed at both ends and the center in the left-right direction.

[0304] The rear pressure plate 524 is a plate-like body that supports the buttocks of the person sitting. The rear pressure plate 524 has the flexibility to deform when bearing the load of the buttocks.

[0305] The rear pressure plate 524 has a plate-shaped body portion 524b, an inclined portion 524c extending from the rear end of the body portion 524b, and a plurality of protruding ribs 524d arranged side by side in the left-right direction between the body portion 524b and the inclined portion 524c.

[0306] A through hole 524e is formed in the main body 524b at a position corresponding to the coccyx of the person sitting. The through hole 524e is formed in the center of the main body 524b in the left-right direction. The through hole 524e is approximately triangular in shape and has a size and shape corresponding to the orientation and shape of the coccyx when the person is sitting. The through hole 524e prevents the concentration of load from the coccyx of the person sitting. In other words, by forming the through hole 524e below the coccyx of the person sitting, the load from the coccyx can be distributed to the periphery of the through hole 524e. As a result, the comfort of the person sitting for a long time can be improved.

[0307] The inclined portion 524c extends obliquely upward from the rear end of the main body portion 524b. The inclined portion 524c is formed along the entire length of the rear pressure plate 254 in the left-right direction. The inclined portion 524c can more effectively support the buttocks of the seated person.

[0308] The rib 524d is a plurality of plate-like bodies that protrude upward from between the body portion 524b and the inclined portion 524c. The upper surface of the rib 524d has a curved surface that is smoothly and continuously connected to the front surface of the inclined portion 524c and the upper surface of the body portion 524b.

[0309] As described above, the front pressure plate 522, the central pressure plate 523, and the rear pressure plate 524 are arranged at predetermined intervals in the front-to-back direction. Therefore, even under heavy loads when seated, the pressure member 520 can deform with sufficient flexibility to bear the load of the seated person. Furthermore, even under heavy loads when seated, interference between the front pressure plate 522, the central pressure plate 523, and the rear pressure plate 524 can be suppressed.

[0310] The support members 530 disposed on both sides of the seat in the width direction are members that support the seated person from the left and right sides. The support member 530 has a first part 531, a second part 532, a third part 533, a fourth part 534, and a connecting part 535. In addition, the first part 531, the second part 532, the third part 533, and the fourth part 534 are integrally formed.

[0311] The first part 531 is the inner side of the rear end portion of the buffer pad side frame 511. The first part 531 has an abutting portion that abuts against the rear tube 514, which connects the rear ends of the left and right buffer pad side frames 511.

[0312] The second part 532 is connected to the front side of the first part 531. The second part 532 is the part that covers the upper part of the flange formed on the upper edge of the buffer pad side frame 511. The second part 532 has a plate shape. The second part 532 is connected to the buffer pad side frame 511 by bolts, resin claws, clips, etc.

[0313] The third part 533 is connected to the front side of the first part 531. Furthermore, the third part 533 is connected to the inner side of the second part 532. The third part 533 is a plate-like body that extends diagonally downward from the inner side of the second part 532 to form a side wall. The third part 533 is the portion that supports the thighs from the buttocks of the seated person.

[0314] The fourth part 534 is connected to the lower end of the third part 533. The fourth part 534 is a plate-like body that extends obliquely from the lower end of the third part 533 inward and downward to form an inclined wall. The fourth part 534, together with the third part 533, supports the sides of the thighs from the buttocks of the seated person.

[0315] The connecting parts 535 are three connecting components located in the front-to-back direction and can be engaged with the steel wire 521. The two connecting parts 535 located at the front support the central pressure plate 523 via the steel wire 521. The connecting part 535 located at the rear supports the rear pressure plate 524 via the steel wire 521. The connecting parts 535 are installed at the lower end of the fourth part 534. The connecting parts 535 support the steel wire 521 on the left and right sides and above by engaging with the steel wire 521.

[0316] Next, the left and right thigh fluid pockets 540, which are disposed on the front side of the seat cushion frame 510 and, more specifically, on the upper surface of the base frame 512, will be described. The thigh fluid pockets 540 are disposed at positions corresponding to the back of the knees or the inside of the thighs of the sitter when seated.

[0317] In the fifth embodiment, the ECU 550 controls the supply and discharge of fluid to the left and right thigh fluid pockets 540. This prevents the thigh fluid pockets 540 from contracting, thereby stimulating the thighs of the seated person. Therefore, it can improve blood flow to seated persons who maintain the same posture for extended periods, suppressing the occurrence of economy class syndrome. Furthermore, the ECU 550 can also determine the duration of the seated person's prolonged maintenance of the same posture based on the detection values ​​of the weight sensor 40, and control the thigh fluid pockets 540 to prevent contraction based on the determination result. This further effectively suppresses the occurrence of economy class syndrome.

[0318] Furthermore, the ECU 550 can also be controlled to alternately inflate and deflate the left and right thigh fluid pockets 540 at predetermined intervals. This promotes "leg-raising exercises" for the occupant—raising the legs when the thigh fluid pockets 540 inflate and lowering them when they contract. Therefore, it can more effectively suppress economy class syndrome.

[0319] Furthermore, the ECU 550 can also limit the amount of fluid injected into the thigh fluid bag 540 based on the detection values ​​of the pressure sensor 43 and the bulge pressure sensor 44. This prevents the thigh fluid bag 540 from over-inflating and hindering the occupant's operation of the accelerator or brake pedals.

[0320] Furthermore, the ECU 550 can also control the volume of fluid injected into the thigh fluid pocket 540 based on the detection values ​​of the vehicle speed sensor 41, steering angle sensor 42, and rotation angle sensor 45. This allows for appropriate expansion / contraction control corresponding to the vehicle's driving status, supporting long-term driving and reducing fatigue.

[0321] Furthermore, the ECU 550 can also control the volume of fluid injected into the thigh fluid pocket 540 based on the vehicle's driving mode. For example, in automatic driving mode, where the occupant does not need to operate the driving pedals, the thigh fluid pocket 540 can be controlled to inflate, thereby reducing the occupant's fatigue. And, when the automatic driving mode is deactivated, the thigh fluid pocket 540 can be controlled to contract, thereby preventing any obstruction to the occupant's pedal operation.

[0322] <Sixth Implementation Method>

[0323] The following is for reference Figure 23 The vehicle seat according to the sixth embodiment will now be described. In the fifth embodiment, thigh fluid pockets 540 were provided on the front side (upper surface of the base frame 512) of the seat cushion frame 510. In contrast, the vehicle seat of the sixth embodiment has thigh fluid pockets 640 located further rearward than the center of the seat cushion frame 610 in the front-rear direction and on both sides in the left-right direction. This allows for appropriate lateral support of the occupant's buttocks and thighs, conforming to the occupant's body shape.

[0324] Figure 23 This is a top view of the seat cushion frame 610. The seat cushion frame 610 serves as the skeleton for the seat cushion (not shown). The seat cushion frame 610 is covered by the seat cushion liner (not shown) and the outer material (not shown).

[0325] The seat cushion frame 610 has a cushion side frame 511 as a side frame, a base frame 512, a front tube 513, and a rear tube 514. Furthermore, the seat cushion frame 610 has a pressure-bearing member 520 and a support member 530 between the left and right cushion side frames 511.

[0326] The basic structure of the seat cushion frame 610 is the same as that of the fifth embodiment described above, so detailed description is omitted.

[0327] like Figure 23As shown, the vehicle seat of the sixth embodiment is provided with thigh fluid pockets 640 in a different position than that of the fifth embodiment. In detail, the thigh fluid pockets 640 are located further rearward than the center in the front-rear direction and on both sides in the left-right direction of the seat cushion frame 610. The thigh fluid pockets 640 are installed inside the third portion 533 and on the upper surface of the fourth portion 534 of the left-right arranged support members 530.

[0328] The ECU 650 controls the supply or discharge of fluid to the left and right thigh fluid bags 640. This causes the left and right thigh fluid bags 640 to expand or contract, supporting the sitter's buttocks and thighs from below and the sides. In other words, by controlling the amount of compressed air supplied to the thigh fluid bags 640, the lateral support force of the pressure-bearing member 520 can be adjusted. Therefore, it is possible to effectively support the buttocks and thighs of sitters with different body shapes from below and the sides, thereby improving the sitter's support.

[0329] Furthermore, the ECU 650 can also control the volume of fluid injected into the thigh fluid pocket 640 based on the detection values ​​of the vehicle speed sensor 41, steering angle sensor 42, and rotation angle sensor 45. This allows for appropriate expansion / contraction control corresponding to the occupant's body shape and the vehicle's driving status, supporting the occupant during long driving sessions and reducing fatigue.

[0330] <Seventh Implementation>

[0331] The following is for reference Figure 24 The vehicle seat according to the seventh embodiment will now be described. In the sixth embodiment, thigh fluid pockets 640 were provided on the upper surfaces of the support members 530 disposed on the left and right sides of the seat cushion frame 610. In contrast, the vehicle seat of the seventh embodiment has a force-applying member 740 below the support member 530, which applies force upwards to the support member 530. In this case, the force-applying member 740 can also adjust the lateral support force of the pressure-bearing member 520. Furthermore, it can appropriately support the sitter's buttocks and thighs from the side, adapting to the sitter's body shape.

[0332] Figure 24 This is a top view showing the seat cushion frame 710 according to the seventh embodiment. (See attached image.) Figure 24As shown, force-applying members 740 are arranged on both sides in the left-right direction and further rearward than the center in the front-rear direction of the seat cushion frame 710. The force-applying members 740 are arranged below the fourth portion 534 of the left and right support members 530. To describe it in more detail, the vehicle seat of the seventh embodiment includes a pair of left and right cushion side frames 511 and a pressure-receiving member 520 disposed between the cushion side frames 511. Furthermore, the vehicle seat also includes support members 530 provided on the left and right sides of the pressure-receiving member 520 and force-applying members 740 that apply force upward to the support members 530.

[0333] The support member 530 is a resin component and has the flexibility to be deformed by the force-applying member 740 located below it. The force-applying member 740 is an elastic component such as a spring. Above the force-applying member 740, the support member 530, the seat cushion pad (not shown), and the outer material (not shown) are arranged.

[0334] Figure 25 This diagram schematically illustrates the state in which the force-applying member 740 applies a force upwards to the supporting member 530. (Example) Figure 25 As shown, the force-applying member 740 is an elastic member that includes a torsion spring 741 disposed below the support member 530. The torsion spring 741 applies force upward to the fourth portion 534 of the support member 530. As a result, it is possible to provide appropriate lateral support to the buttocks and thighs of the seated person according to their body shape.

[0335] Moreover, such as Figure 26 As shown, the force-applying member 740 may also include: a support plate 742, fixed below the support member 730; and a thigh fluid bag 743, mounted on the upper surface of the support plate 742. The ECU 750 of the seventh embodiment controls the supply of fluid to the left and right thigh fluid bags 743, causing the thigh fluid bags 743 to inflate, thereby enabling the thigh fluid bags 743 to function as the force-applying member 740. In other words, by supplying a predetermined amount of fluid to the thigh fluid bags 743, the fourth portion 534 of the support member 530 is subjected to upward force. This allows for appropriate lateral support of the occupant's buttocks and thighs, conforming to the occupant's body shape.

[0336] Moreover, such as Figure 27 As shown, the force-applying member 740 includes: a support plate 742 fixed in a manner extending in the left-right direction; and left and right elastic rotating bodies 744 mounted on the upper surface of the support plate 742 and having a cam shape. The elastic rotating bodies 744 are elastic members containing rubber material.

[0337] In the seventh embodiment, the ECU 750 rotates the left and right elastic rotating bodies 744 via a motor (not shown), thereby enabling the elastic rotating bodies 744 to function as force-applying members 740. In other words, the elastic rotating bodies 744 can be rotated to apply upward force to the support member 530 through the protrusions 744a of the elastic rotating bodies 744. This allows for appropriate lateral support of the occupant's buttocks and thighs, conforming to the occupant's body shape.

[0338] <<Variations>>

[0339] In the aforementioned fifth to seventh embodiments, the number of steel wires 521 supporting the pressure-bearing member 520 was described as three, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the number of steel wires 521 may also be two, or even four or more.

[0340] Furthermore, while it has been described that the front end of the steel wire 521 is mounted on the front tube 513, this is not a limitation. The steel wire 521 may also be mounted on the base frame 512.

[0341] <Eighth Implementation Method>

[0342] The following is for reference Figures 28 to 30 The vehicle seat according to the eighth embodiment will be described below. In the fifth to seventh embodiments, the pressure-bearing member 520 was described with its position fixed. In contrast, the seat cushion frame 810 of the eighth embodiment has a length adjustment mechanism 820 that adjusts its length in the fore-and-aft direction, and the pressure-bearing member 520 is configured to move in the fore-and-aft direction in conjunction with the length adjustment mechanism 820. This allows the pressure-bearing member 520 to be positioned appropriately to fit the occupant's physique. Therefore, it is possible to appropriately support the occupant's load according to their physique.

[0343] <<Basic Structure of Seat Cushion Frame>>

[0344] Figure 28 This is a perspective view of the seat cushion frame 810 according to the eighth embodiment. The seat cushion frame 810 serves as the skeleton of the seat cushion (not shown). The seat cushion frame 810 is covered by a seat cushion liner (not shown) and an outer material (not shown).

[0345] The seat cushion frame 810 mainly includes a cushion side frame 811 as a side frame, a fixed base frame 812, a movable base frame 813 that can move in the front and rear directions, a front tube 814, and a rear tube 815. Moreover, the seat cushion frame 810 has a pressure-bearing member 520 and a support member 530 between the left and right cushion side frames 811.

[0346] The fixed base frame 812 has left and right longitudinal beams 812a extending forward and backward, and a front beam 812b connecting the front ends of the longitudinal beams 812a. The left and right longitudinal beams 812a and the front beam 812b are formed by bending metal plates. The front beam 812b has a plate-like portion 812c at its center in the left and right direction. The plate-like portion 812c has a predetermined width in the front and back direction. A through hole (not shown) is formed in the plate-like portion 812c for inserting a fastening member 816, which will be described later.

[0347] The movable base frame 813 is slidably disposed relative to the plate-shaped portion 812c of the front beam 812b in the front-rear direction. The movable base frame 813 has: an upper plate 813a, which is placed on the plate-shaped portion 812c; and a front plate 813b, which extends downward from the front of the upper plate 813a and is disposed in front of the front beam 812b.

[0348] On the upper plate 813a, a plurality of elongated holes 813d are formed, extending through the thickness direction and back-to-back. Two elongated holes 813d are provided on each side. The fastening member 816 is inserted between the elongated holes 813d and the through hole formed in the plate-shaped portion 812c. The fastening member 816 is fixed relative to the through hole. The movable base frame 813 is guided by the elongated holes 813d, so that it can slide in the back-to-back direction relative to the fixed base frame 812.

[0349] A fixing part 813e is formed behind the upper plate 813a, which fixes the front end of the steel wire 521 of the pressure-bearing member 520. As will be described later, when the movable base frame 813 is slid in the front-back direction via the length adjustment mechanism 820, the steel wire 521 moves in the front-back direction in conjunction with the movable base frame 813. Accompanying this, the front pressure plate 522, the central pressure plate 523, and the rear pressure plate 524 of the pressure-bearing member 520 move in the front-back direction in conjunction. The linkage between the length adjustment mechanism 820 and the pressure-bearing member 520 will be described later.

[0350] like Figure 29 As shown, the fixed base frame 812 has a housing 812k. The housing 812k has a front wall 812e extending in a generally vertical direction on the front side, a rear wall 812f facing the front wall 812e further rearward, a side wall 812g connecting the front wall 812e and the rear wall 812f, and a bottom wall 812h.

[0351] The housing 812k has a rear flange 812m fixed at its rear relative to a reinforcing portion 812l formed below the plate-shaped portion 812c, and a plurality of reinforcing ribs 812n connecting the rear wall 812f and the rear flange 812m.

[0352] A pressure plate 813c fixed to the movable base frame 813 is located between the front wall 812e and the rear wall 812f. Behind the pressure plate 813c, a first actuator 821 is provided that drives the movable base frame 813 forward relative to the fixed base frame 812. In front of the pressure plate 813c, a second actuator 822 is provided that drives the movable base frame 813 rearward relative to the fixed base frame 812.

[0353] The first actuator 821 applies force forward to the movable base frame 813. The first actuator 821 has a plurality of first fluid bags 821a, which expand by injecting compressed air and contract by discharging compressed air.

[0354] The second actuator 822 applies a force rearward to the movable base frame 813. The second actuator 822 has a plurality of second fluid bags 822a, which expand by injecting compressed air and contract by discharging compressed air.

[0355] <<Length Adjustment Mechanism>>

[0356] Next, refer to Figure 30 The length adjustment mechanism 820, which adjusts the length of the seat cushion in the front-to-back direction according to the eighth embodiment, will be explained. Figure 30 This shows the structural block diagram of the length adjustment mechanism 820. (See diagram below.) Figure 30 As shown, the length adjustment mechanism 820 has a first actuator 821, a second actuator 822, a compressor 823, and an ECU 850 as its main structures.

[0357] ECU 850 is responsible for the overall control of the length adjustment mechanism 820. In detail, ECU 850 controls the applied force generated by the first fluid bag 821a and the second fluid bag 822a by injecting and discharging compressed air. The compressed air is generated by compressor 823. The first fluid bag 821a and compressor 823 are connected to the first connecting pipe 825 via the first control valve 824. The second fluid bag 822a and compressor 823 are connected to the second connecting pipe 827 via the second control valve 826. ECU 850 controls the opening and closing of the first control valve 824 and the second control valve 826 to inject or discharge the compressed air generated by compressor 823 into the first fluid bag 821a and the second fluid bag 822a. Operating switch 828 has an extension button and a retraction button, and outputs corresponding output signals to ECU 850 for operation of the extension and retraction buttons.

[0358] The ECU 850 controls the expansion / contraction of the first fluid bag 821a and the second fluid bag 822a based on the output signal of the operation switch 828, causing the movable base frame 813 to move in the fore-and-aft direction. This allows the seat cushion to extend or retract to an appropriate length corresponding to the occupant's body shape. Furthermore, along with the movement of the movable base frame 813, the front pressure plate 522, the central pressure plate 523, and the rear pressure plate 524 of the pressure-bearing member 520 move in the fore-and-aft direction. Therefore, the front pressure plate 522, the central pressure plate 523, and the rear pressure plate 524 can be positioned appropriately according to the occupant's body size.

[0359] At this time, a retractable elastic member can also be placed between the connecting portion 535 and the fourth portion 534. Therefore, even when the pressure member 520 moves in the front-to-back direction via the length adjustment mechanism 820, the support member 530 can properly support the pressure member 520. Furthermore, the connecting portion 535 itself can also be formed of a retractable elastic member.

[0360] <<Variations>>

[0361] In the aforementioned eighth embodiment, the pressure-bearing member 520 is supported by a steel wire 521 erected between the movable base frame 813 and the rear tube 514, but this is not a limitation. The pressure-bearing member 520 may also be supported by a long, elastic member with telescopic flexibility. This elastic member may also be erected between the movable base frame 813 and the rear tube 514 to support the pressure-bearing member 520 and connect to the rear tube 514. Thus, the pressure-bearing performance of the pressure-bearing member 520 can be adjusted in conjunction with the forward movement of the movable base frame 813 via the length adjustment mechanism 820.

[0362] <Ninth Implementation Method>

[0363] The following is for reference Figure 31 as well as Figure 32 The vehicle seat S901 of the ninth embodiment will be explained.

[0364] Previously, there was a known vehicle seat that included ventilation channels and a blower inside the seat, which could direct the air delivered by the blower toward the seating surface to blow it onto the occupant.

[0365] In a patent document (Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2020-110702), a vehicle seat with ventilation channels formed in the padding is disclosed.

[0366] Further improvements are desired for vehicle seats with ventilation channels formed within the cushioning. Specifically, a vehicle seat is desired that can improve comfort and reduce fatigue by blowing air of appropriate temperature from the seated area onto the occupant.

[0367] The vehicle seat S901 has ventilation channels 941 formed in the seat cushion S911 and the seat back S912, which deliver air conditioning air from the blower to the seating surface of the vehicle seat S901. The vehicle seat S901 further has a fluid pocket 960 between the cushion and the cover material, which can expand / contract by compressed air. Furthermore, the ventilation channels 941 and the fluid pocket 960 are positioned so as not to overlap when viewed from the seating surface. This prevents interference or influence between the ventilation channels 941 and the fluid pocket 960.

[0368] <<Basic Structure of Vehicle Seats>>

[0369] Figure 31 This is a perspective view showing the basic structure of the S901 vehicle seat. (Example) Figure 31 As shown, the vehicle seat S901 has a seat cushion S911, a seat back S912, and a headrest S913 as its main structures.

[0370] The seat cushion S911 mainly includes a seat cushion frame (not shown) that constitutes the skeleton of the seat cushion S911, and a liner 911 and a cover material 930 that cover the seat cushion frame.

[0371] The seat backrest S912 mainly includes a seat backrest frame (not shown) that constitutes the skeleton of the seat backrest S912, and a pad (not shown) and a cover material (not shown) that cover the seat backrest frame.

[0372] The seat cushion S911 has a ventilation passage 941 through which air conditioning air output from an air conditioning unit (not shown) passes. The ventilation passage 941 has an inlet 942 for the air conditioning air output from the air conditioning unit to flow in, and multiple outlets 943 for blowing the air conditioning air out from below to the seated person. The inlet 942 is formed in the center and rear side of the seat cushion S91 in the left-right direction. Four outlets 943 are formed on each side, further forward than the inlet 942. The arrangement of the ventilation passage 941, inlet 942, and outlets 943 is not limited to... Figure 31 The configuration shown in the diagram is sufficient to improve the comfort of the occupants by delivering the air conditioning unit's output to them.

[0373] Between the cushion 911 and the cover material 930 of the seat cushion S911, there is a seat sensor 945 for detecting that the occupant is seated in the vehicle seat S901. The seat sensor 945 is a sensor that can detect that the occupant is seated, such as a weight sensor.

[0374] Furthermore, the seat cushion S911 is equipped with a control circuit 946 responsible for controlling the electrical components (various sensors and actuators) installed in the vehicle seat S901. The seating sensor 945 is electrically connected to the control circuit 946 via a wiring harness 947. In other words, the detection signal from the seating sensor 945 is output to the control circuit 946 via the wiring harness 947.

[0375] Furthermore, a plurality of fluid pockets 960 are disposed between the cushion 911 and the outer material 930. These fluid pockets 960 expand by injecting compressed air and contract by discharging compressed air. The fluid pockets 960 mainly include thigh fluid pockets 960a, lumbar fluid pockets 960b, and side fluid pockets 960c. The thigh fluid pockets 960a are integrated into the seat cushion S911, primarily supporting the occupant's thighs. The lumbar fluid pockets 960b are integrated into the seat back S912, primarily supporting the occupant's lumbar region. The side fluid pockets 960c are integrated into the seat back S92, primarily supporting the occupant's body from the side.

[0376] like Figure 31 As shown, the fluid bag 960 is positioned so as not to overlap with the ventilation path 941 when viewed from the seated surface. This prevents the fluid bag 960 from obstructing the flow of air conditioning air through the ventilation path 941 when it expands. Furthermore, when the fluid bag 960 expands, it does not descend but protrudes upwards, effectively stimulating the seated person.

[0377] Furthermore, the fluid bag 960 is positioned to coincide with the seating sensor 945 when viewed from the seated surface. Therefore, the seating sensor 945 detects not only the load on the seated person but also the pressure generated when the fluid bag 960 bulges out. This prevents the seating sensor 945 from missing detections of the seated person.

[0378] Furthermore, the fluid bag 960 is positioned so as not to overlap with the wiring harness 947 when viewed from the seated surface. The wiring harness 947 is electrically connected to the seating sensor 945 and the control circuit 946. This prevents damage to the wiring harness 947 caused by the load borne by the occupant when sitting and the pressure generated by the expansion of the fluid bag 960.

[0379] Figure 32 This shows an exploded perspective view of the padding 911 of the seat cushion S911. (See image below.) Figure 32 As shown, the pad 911 has a pad body 912, a first cover member 920, and a second cover member 921 as its main structures. The pad body 912, the first cover member 920, and the second cover member 921 are formed of urethane foam. The pad 911 is used with the first cover member 920 and the second cover member 921 placed and overlapped on the pad body 912.

[0380] The liner body 912 has a central portion 912a, and side portions 912b are integrally formed on the left and right sides of the central portion 912a. In the central portion 912a, a cover mounting portion 912c for placing the first cover member 920 and the second cover member 921 and an inlet 942 for air conditioning air to flow in are formed.

[0381] On the left and right sides of the cover mounting portion 912c, a first engaging portion 912d is formed, which engages with the engaging portion 920a formed on the first cover member 920 described later. Furthermore, on the front of the cover mounting portion 912c, a second engaging portion 912e is formed, which engages with the engaging portion 921a formed on the second cover member 921 described later.

[0382] The first cover member 920 and the second cover member 921 are members that form a ventilation passage 941 between themselves and the pad body 912 by means of the upper surface of the cover mounting portion 912c placed on the pad body 912.

[0383] The first cover member 920 is a plate-shaped member. A ventilation hole 920b is formed in the first cover member 920. The ventilation hole 920b forms a ventilation passage 941 between the upper surface of the pad body 912 and the second cover member 921. In detail, air conditioning air flowing in from the inlet 942 formed in the pad body 912 passes through the ventilation hole 920b and exits from the outlet 943 formed in the second cover member 921 (described later). As described above, the ventilation hole 920b is formed at a position that does not coincide with the fluid bag 960 when viewed from the seating surface. Therefore, the fluid bag 960 disposed on the pad 911 can expand / contract without being affected by the ventilation passage 941.

[0384] On the left and right sides of the first cover member 920, there are engaged portions 920a that engage with the first engaging portion 912d of the pad body 912.

[0385] The second cover member 921 is a plate-shaped member. Four air outlets 943 are formed on each of the left and right sides of the second cover member 921. The air outlets 943 are formed in positions that do not coincide with the fluid bag 960 when viewed from the seated surface. For a more detailed explanation, see below. Figure 31 As shown, the outlet 943 is formed between a plurality of fluid bags 960. Moreover, the outlet 943 is formed in front of the fluid bags 960. As a result, the flow of air conditioning air blown out of the outlet 943 can be prevented from being obstructed by the fluid bags 960 arranged on the gasket 911.

[0386] A seating sensor mounting portion 921b is formed behind the second cover member 921 for mounting the seating sensor 945. The seating sensor mounting portion 921b is formed at a position that coincides with the fluid bag 960 when viewed from the seating surface. As a result, the load applied by the occupant when sitting can be reliably detected using the seating sensor 945.

[0387] In front of the second cover member 921, there is a engaged portion 921a that engages with the second engaging portion 912e of the pad body 912.

[0388] When assembling the pad 911 configured in this way, firstly, adhesive is applied to the upper surface of the pad body 912 and the upper surface of the cover mounting portion 912c. Next, while engaging the first engaging portion 912d of the pad body 912 with the engaging portion 920a of the first cover member 920, the first cover member 920 is overlapped onto the cover mounting portion 912c. The first cover member 920 is fixed to the pad body 912 by adhesive.

[0389] Next, an adhesive is applied to the upper surface of the first cover member 920. Then, while engaging the second engaging portion 912e of the pad body 912 with the engaging portion 921a of the second cover member 921, the second cover member 921 is overlapped onto the first cover member 920. The second cover member 921 is then fixed to the first cover member 920 and the pad body 912 by the adhesive.

[0390] Through the above operations, the assembly of the cushion 911 is completed. Furthermore, it can direct air conditioning air to the seating surface without the need for a built-in ventilation duct inside the cushion 911 for air conditioning airflow. Therefore, when the occupant sits, they will not feel discomfort due to the presence of the ventilation duct, thus allowing for comfortable seating.

[0391] The above description describes the padding 911 of the seat cushion S911, but is not limited thereto. For example, the present invention can be applied to the padding 911 of the seat back S912. In this case, the first cover member 920 and the second cover member 921 are overlapped and disposed on the front surface (the side facing the occupant) of the padding 912 body.

[0392] <Tenth Implementation>

[0393] The following is for reference Figures 33 to 39 The tenth embodiment of the vehicle seat S1001 will be described.

[0394] Previously, there was a known vehicle seat that included an airbag device, which could improve the safety of the occupant by activating the airbag device when a vehicle collision was detected.

[0395] In a patent document (Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2020-050269), a vehicle seat is disclosed that, when a vehicle collision is detected, the part of the airbag body located below the knees and back of the occupant inflates first, thereby suppressing the forward movement of the occupant's waist (submarine phenomenon).

[0396] However, regarding vehicle seats including airbags, further improvements are desired to ensure occupant safety upon detection of a collision. Specifically, a vehicle seat is desired that can inflate a fluid-filled bag within the seat before a collision is detected, i.e., during the anticipation of a collision, thereby suppressing skidding.

[0397] The vehicle seat S1001 includes a collision prediction unit 1052a that predicts vehicle collisions, and a collision determination unit 1052b that determines vehicle collisions. Furthermore, the vehicle seat S1001 includes a fluid bag 1060 that expands / contracts by injecting or discharging fluid, and an airbag device 1070. The ECU 1050 of the vehicle seat S1001 controls the fluid bag 1060 to expand / contract based on the prediction result of the collision prediction unit 1052a, and activates the airbag device 1070 based on the determination result of the collision determination unit 1052b. Thus, by predicting a collision using the collision prediction unit 1052a before the airbag device 1070 activates, the occupant can be appropriately protected, thereby improving occupant safety.

[0398] <<Basic Structure of Vehicle Seats>>

[0399] Figure 33 This is a perspective view showing the basic structure of the vehicle seat S1001. (Example) Figure 33 As shown, the vehicle seat S1001 has a seat cushion S1011, a seat back S1012, and a headrest S1013 as its main structures.

[0400] The seat cushion S1011 mainly includes a seat cushion frame 1010 that forms its skeleton, and a seat cushion liner S1011a and a cover material S1011b that cover the seat cushion frame 1010.

[0401] The seat backrest S1012 mainly includes a seat backrest frame (not shown) that forms its skeleton, and a seat backrest pad (not shown) and a cover material (not shown) that cover the seat backrest frame.

[0402] The vehicle seat S1001 has multiple fluid bags 1060 built in. The fluid bags 1060 expand when fluid is injected and contract when fluid is discharged.

[0403] The fluid bag 1060 mainly includes: a hip fluid bag 1061 that mainly supports the buttocks of the seated person, a thigh fluid bag 1062 that mainly supports the thighs, a waist fluid bag 1063 that mainly supports the waist, and a side fluid bag 1064 that supports the body from the side.

[0404] Figure 34 This is a partial cross-sectional view of the vehicle seat S1001. (For example...) Figure 34 As shown, the seat cushion S1011 incorporates an airbag device 1070. The airbag device 1070 inflates to protect the occupant when the vehicle is impacted from the front due to a frontal collision or similar event. The airbag device 1070 includes an airbag body 1071, an inner bladder 1072 housed within the airbag body 1071, and a gas generating device 1073 housed within the inner bladder 1072 and supplied with inflation gas. The operation of the airbag device 1070 will be described later.

[0405] <<Functional Structure of ECU>>

[0406] Figure 35 This is a block diagram illustrating the functional structure of the ECU 1050. The ECU 1050 communicates with various sensors installed in the vehicle via an in-vehicle network to acquire their detection values. These sensors include the weight sensor 40, vehicle speed sensor 41, steering angle sensor 42, pressure sensor 43, bulge pressure sensor 44, and rotation angle sensor 45. In this embodiment, the ECU 1050 can further acquire detection values ​​from external sensors 1046 and collision sensor 1047.

[0407] The external sensor 1046 is a sensor that detects information about the vehicle's surroundings, i.e., the external conditions. Specifically, the external sensor 1046 may include radar that measures scattered light from omnidirectional illumination relative to the vehicle to determine the distance of surrounding obstacles from the vehicle. Furthermore, the external sensor 1046 may include radar that detects other vehicles or obstacles around the vehicle by illuminating electromagnetic waves and detecting reflected waves. The external sensor 1046 may further include an optical sensor that captures images of the vehicle's surroundings.

[0408] The collision sensor 1047 is a sensor used to detect vehicle collisions. Specifically, the collision sensor 1047 is an acceleration sensor installed at the front, rear, and sides of the vehicle.

[0409] The ECU 1050 includes an acquisition unit 1051, a determination unit 1052, and a drive unit 1053. As described above, the acquisition unit 1051 acquires detection values ​​from various sensors.

[0410] The determination unit 1052 includes a collision prediction unit 1052a and a collision determination unit 1052b.

[0411] The collision prediction unit 1052a detects objects around the vehicle based on the detection values ​​from the external sensor 1046. Furthermore, the collision prediction unit 1052a determines the type of the detected object (e.g., a pedestrian or other vehicle) based on its characteristics. Then, the collision prediction unit 1052a calculates the collision probability between the detected object and the vehicle. The calculation of the collision probability takes into account the approach speed of the stage towards the vehicle. The collision prediction unit 1052a can also determine the collision type between the vehicle and the object (frontal collision, rear collision, side collision) to calculate the collision probability for a specific collision (e.g., a frontal collision).

[0412] The collision prediction unit 1052a compares the calculated collision probability with a predetermined threshold, and then outputs the collision prediction result to the drive unit 1053. The collision prediction result contains information that can determine the collision pattern.

[0413] The collision determination unit 1052b acquires acceleration signals detected by collision sensors 1047 installed at the front, rear, and sides of the vehicle. The collision determination unit 1052b compares the acceleration signals with predetermined threshold values, thereby outputting the collision determination result to the drive unit 1053. The collision determination result contains information that can determine the collision pattern.

[0414] When the collision prediction result is input from the collision prediction unit 1052a, the drive unit 1053 controls the opening and closing degree of the solenoid valve 56, thereby causing the fluid bag 1060 to expand / contract.

[0415] When the drive unit 1053 receives a collision prediction result representing a frontal collision from the collision prediction unit 1052a, such as Figure 36 As shown, the hip fluid bag 1061 built into the seat cushion S1011 contracts, while the thigh fluid bag 1062 expands. As a result, the front of the seat cushion S101 protrudes upwards, thus becoming relatively higher than the rear. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the phenomenon of the occupant moving forward while floating off the seat cushion S1011 (submarining).

[0416] Furthermore, while it has been described that the drive unit 1053 causes the buttock fluid bag 1061 to contract and the thigh fluid bag 1062 to expand, this is not a limitation. That is, it is also possible to control only one of the contraction of the buttock fluid bag 1061 or the expansion of the thigh fluid bag 1062.

[0417] When the drive unit 1053 receives a collision prediction result indicating a rear-end collision from the collision prediction unit 1052a, it inflates the lumbar fluid pocket 1063 built into the seat back S1102. As a result, the lumbar fluid pocket 1063 inflates before a rear-end collision occurs, thus improving safety against the impact of a rear-end collision.

[0418] When the collision prediction result representing a side impact is input from the collision prediction unit 1052a, the drive unit 1053 does not inflate the side fluid bag 1064 built into the seat back S102. As a result, the occupant can be protected from impact injury by the airbag device (not shown) located on the side of the occupant without interference caused by the side fluid bag 1064.

[0419] Furthermore, when a side collision is predicted, the support plate of the side support portion S1012a built into the seat back S1012 can be moved to the avoidance position.

[0420] In its normal state, the support plate applies force to the seat back pad from the back of the seat back pad towards the front. Furthermore, when a signal predicting a side impact is input, the drive unit 1053 is controlled to retract the support plate to a rearward position via an actuator (not shown). This allows the occupant to be protected from impact injury by an airbag device (not shown) located on their side, without interference from the support plate.

[0421] When the drive unit 1053 receives a collision determination result indicating a frontal collision from the collision determination unit 1052b, such as Figure 37 As shown, the airbag device 1070 built into the seat cushion S1011 is activated.

[0422] Here, the operation of the airbag device 1070 during inflation is described in further detail. For example... Figure 38 As shown, an inner bladder 1072 is housed inside the airbag body 1071 of the airbag device 1070, and a gas generating device 1073 is housed inside the inner bladder 1072.

[0423] When a frontal collision occurs and the drive unit 1053 activates the airbag device 1070, the gas generating device 1073 generates high-pressure gas for expansion. Therefore, the inner bladder 1072 housing the gas generating device 1073 expands. An outlet hole 1072a for discharging high-pressure gas is formed in the inner bladder 1072. Therefore, the front portion 1071a of the airbag body 1071 expands due to the high-pressure gas discharged from the outlet hole 1072a of the inner bladder 1072. On the other hand, the rear portion 1071b of the airbag body 1071 remains in a contracted state due to the load of the occupant. The outlet hole 1072a is located around the periphery from the front of the occupant's thigh to the back of the knee. Therefore, in a frontal collision, the phenomenon of the occupant moving forward while floating from the seat cushion S1011 (submarining) can be suppressed.

[0424] Furthermore, the operation of the drive unit 1053 when a collision prediction result and a collision determination result are input is not limited to the aforementioned operation. For example, the drive unit 1053 may also retract the support plate built into the side support unit S1012a when a side collision result is input from the collision determination unit 1052b.

[0425] <<ECU 1050 Processing Flow>>

[0426] Next, the operation of ECU 1050 will be explained.

[0427] Figure 38 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of a process executed by ECU 1050 according to a pre-stored program. The flowchart is repeated periodically at predetermined time intervals.

[0428] Initially, the ECU 1050 acquires the output signals from various sensors located in the vehicle (step S10).

[0429] Next, the ECU 1050 determines whether the acceleration signal detected by the collision sensor 1047 is greater than a predetermined threshold TH1 (step S11). Here, the ECU 1050 compares the acquired acceleration signal with the threshold TH1 for a frontal collision, but the same applies to rear-end collisions and side collisions.

[0430] If the acceleration signal is determined to be no greater than the threshold TH1 (step S11: No), then the ECU 1050 calculates the collision probability based on the external signal detected by the external sensor 1046 (step S12). The ECU 1050 calculates the collision probability of a frontal collision based on the acquired external signal.

[0431] Next, the ECU 1050 determines whether the collision probability is greater than a predetermined threshold TH2 (step S13). The ECU 1050 compares the probability with the threshold TH2 for a frontal collision.

[0432] If the collision probability is determined to be greater than the threshold TH2 (step S13: Yes), the ECU 1050 controls the thigh fluid bag 1062 to inflate it (step S14). At this time, the buttock fluid bag 1061 can also be controlled to contract. As a result, the front of the seat cushion S101 protrudes upward and becomes relatively higher than the rear.

[0433] On the other hand, if it is not determined that the collision probability is greater than the threshold TH2 (step S13: no), then the ECU 1050 controls the thigh fluid bag 1062 to contract it (step S15), and the process ends.

[0434] Furthermore, if it is determined that the acceleration signal is greater than the threshold TH1 (step S11: yes), the ECU 1050 activates the airbag device 1070 built into the seat cushion S101 (step S16) and ends the process.

[0435] In this way, before the actual collision occurs, the ECU 1050 predicts the timing of the collision and controls the expansion of the thigh fluid bag 1062, causing the front of the seat cushion S101 to protrude upwards. This more effectively suppresses the occurrence of skidding.

[0436] <Eleventh Implementation Method>

[0437] The following is for reference Figure 39 as well as Figure 40 The vehicle seat S1101 of the eleventh embodiment will be described.

[0438] In the past, quilting was used on the surface material of vehicle seats to improve their design.

[0439] In a patent document (Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2015-143067), a vehicle seat is disclosed that includes a fabric containing heat-shrinkable material and improves its design by performing a quilting process.

[0440] However, further improvements are desired for vehicle seats that incorporate quilting. Specifically, a vehicle seat is desired that has a fluid pocket between the upper material and the padding that can expand / contract upon the supply of fluid, thereby making the embossed shape formed by the quilting process more pronounced, thus enabling further improvements in design.

[0441] The vehicle seat S1101 has a quilted pattern 1131 with a raised and recessed shape formed on the surface material 1130. Furthermore, an expandable / contractable fluid pocket 1140 is provided on the inner side of the surface material 1130 at a position that does not coincide with the recesses 1133 of the quilted pattern 1131 when viewed from the seating surface. Thus, when the fluid pocket 1140 expands, the regularity of the raised and recessed shape of the quilted pattern 1131 is maintained, while the protrusions 1132 of the quilted pattern 1131 become more prominent. Furthermore, the decorative effect of the quilted pattern 1131 is prevented from decreasing due to the expansion of the fluid pocket 1140.

[0442] <<Basic Structure of Vehicle Seats>>

[0443] Figure 39 This is a perspective view showing the basic structure of the vehicle seat S1101. (Example) Figure 39As shown, the vehicle seat S1101 has a seat cushion S1111, a seat back S1112, and a headrest S1113 as its main structures.

[0444] The seat cushion S1111 mainly includes a seat cushion frame (not shown) that constitutes the skeleton of the seat cushion S1111, and a liner (not shown) and a cover material (not shown) that cover the seat cushion frame.

[0445] The seat backrest S1112 mainly includes a seat backrest frame (not shown) that forms the skeleton of the seat backrest S1112, and a padding 1120 (see reference) that covers the seat backrest frame. Figure 40 ) and the outer skin material 1130.

[0446] A quilted pattern 1131 is formed on the surface material 1130 of the seat cushion S1111 and the seat back S1112. The quilted pattern 1131 has protrusions 1132 and recesses 1133. The protrusions 1132 and recesses 1133 are regularly arranged in a grid pattern. The quilted pattern 1131 can be formed by a known quilting process that includes a step of sewing the surface material 1130 containing laminates. By performing a quilting process on the surface material 1130, the cushioning and decorative properties of the vehicle seat S1101 can be improved.

[0447] A plurality of fluid bags 1140 are disposed between the liner 1120 and the outer skin material 1130. These fluid bags 1140 expand by injecting fluid and contract by discharging fluid. In this embodiment, the fluid is compressed air, but it is not limited to this. The fluid may also be a liquid. In other words, the plurality of fluid bags 1140 may be either compressed air bags that expand with compressed air or liquid bags that expand with liquid, or a combination of compressed air bags and liquid bags. By combining compressed air bags with liquid bags, which have lower elasticity than compressed air, the elasticity or rigidity of the fluid bags 1140 can be appropriately adjusted.

[0448] like Figure 39 As shown, the fluid pocket 1140 is positioned so as not to coincide with the recess 1133 of the quilted pattern 1131 when viewed from the seating surface. In other words, the fluid pocket 1140 is positioned to coincide with the protrusion 1132 of the quilted pattern 1131. Therefore, the deformation of the surface material 1130 due to the expansion of the fluid pocket 1140 suppresses the deformation of the regular concave-convex shape of the quilted pattern 1131. Thus, the decorative quality of the quilted pattern 1131 formed on the surface material 1130 of the vehicle seat S1101 can be maintained.

[0449] Figure 40 This shows a partial cross-sectional view of the seat back S1112. (See attached image.) Figure 40 As shown, the fluid bag 1140 located between the padding 1120 and the outer material 1130 has at least a first fluid bag 1141 disposed on the rear side (padding 1120 side) and a second fluid bag 1142 disposed on the front side (outer material 1130 side). The first fluid bag 1141 and the second fluid bag 1142 are stacked.

[0450] The first fluid bag 1141 has a larger capacity than the second fluid bag 1142. Furthermore, the contact area between the first fluid bag 1141 and the padding 1120 is larger than the contact area between the second fluid bag 1142 and the outer material 1030. Moreover, the first fluid bag 1141 has higher rigidity than the second fluid bag 1142. Through the above description, it is possible to suppress the phenomenon of the first fluid bag 1141 and the second fluid bag 1142 shifting towards the padding 1120 when they expand, and the first fluid bag 1141 can function as a substrate to support the second fluid bag 1142. Therefore, the protrusion of the second fluid bag 1142 effectively stimulates the occupant.

[0451] The first fluid bag 1141 and the second fluid bag 1142 can be fixed together in a stacked state by welding them together. This allows the first fluid bag 1141 to more firmly support the second fluid bag 1142. Alternatively, the first fluid bag 1141 and the second fluid bag 1142 can also be fixed together by bonding them with an adhesive.

[0452] <Twelfth Implementation>

[0453] The following is for reference Figures 41 to 46 The vehicle seat S1201 of the twelfth embodiment will be described.

[0454] A vehicle seat is known to have a sensor component in the seating area for detecting the state of the occupant sitting in the vehicle seat S1201 or for detecting the occupant's biometric information.

[0455] In a patent document (Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2013-095373), a technology is disclosed in which the conductive part (wire harness) of the seating sensor is arranged through a through hole in the padding member, and the connector part (coupler) is disposed on the back of the padding member.

[0456] Therefore, if the connector (coupler) is positioned on the back of the padding member when the padding member is thin, the seating comfort may be worse when the connector is positioned below the seating area. Furthermore, depending on the arrangement of the conductive part, the seating comfort may be worse due to excessive expansion of the conductive part.

[0457] Therefore, when the vehicle seat S1201 is equipped with sensor components, appropriate configuration of conductors such as wiring harnesses or connectors such as couplers can improve the seating comfort.

[0458] The vehicle seat S1201 has Figure 41 The appearance is shown in the figure. The vehicle seat S1201 has the following main components: a seat cushion S1211 that serves as a buttock support (sitting part) to support the buttocks of the occupant; a seat back S1212 that serves as a backrest (sitting part) to support the back of the occupant; and a headrest S1213 disposed on the upper part of the seat back S1212 to support the head of the occupant.

[0459] The seat cushion S1211 (sitting part) of this embodiment includes a seat cushion liner 1210 (liner member), a sensor member 1220, and a decorative cover 1230 (outer material).

[0460] The seat cushion S1211 is constructed by placing a seat cushion liner 1210 on a body (support part) (not shown) and then covering the seat cushion liner 1210 with a decorative cover 1230. The seat back S122 is constructed by placing a seat back liner (not shown) on a seat back frame (not shown) and covering it with a decorative cover 1230. The headrest S123 is formed by attaching a liner member (not shown) to the core material and covering it with a decorative cover 1230.

[0461] The seat cushion pad liner 1210 of seat cushion pad S121 or the seat back pad of seat back S122 is a urethane substrate formed by foaming urethane foam material.

[0462] <<The Seat Cushion of This Embodiment>>

[0463] While referring to Figures 42 to 44 The structure of the seat cushion S1211 of the vehicle seat S1201 is explained. Figure 42 yes Figure 41 AA cross-section view. Figure 43 yes Figure 41 The diagram is a cross-sectional view AA, and is an example of the recess 1212b of the seat cushion pad 1210 including the protrusion 1212c. Figure 44 This diagram shows the connector 1223 housed in the recess 1212b of the seat cushion pad 1210. Additionally, Figure 44 The illustration of decorative cover 1230 is omitted.

[0464] <<<Seat cushion pad 1210>>>

[0465] like Figure 41 as well as Figure 42 As shown, the seat cushion pad 1210 includes a surface 1210a disposed on the seating surface side (upper side) and a back surface 1210b disposed on the back surface side (lower side) in the vertical direction. Furthermore, the seat cushion pad 1210 includes a front end portion 1211 (first end portion) disposed on the front side and a rear end portion 1212 (second end portion) disposed on the lower side in the front-to-back direction. Moreover, the seat cushion pad 1210 includes side end portions 1213 disposed on both sides in the seat width direction.

[0466] like Figure 42 As shown, the seat cushion pad 1210 includes a through hole 1214 extending from the surface 1210a (sitting surface side) to the back surface 1210b (back side side), and a recess 1212b formed at the rear end portion 1212 (end). At the rear end portion 1212 (end) of the seat cushion pad 1210, a bulge 1212a (pillow portion) is formed that protrudes upwards (sitting surface side), and the recess 1212b is provided in the bulge 1212a. The recess 1212b is formed below the bulge 1212a, recessed forward from the rear end portion 1212 (end).

[0467] <<<Sensor Component 1220>>>

[0468] Sensor component 1220 includes a detection unit 1221 for detecting the state of a seated person, an external output unit 1222 for outputting the signal detected by the detection unit 1221, a connector 1223 (coupler) connected to the external output unit 1222, and a wiring component 1224 (wire harness) for establishing communication between the detection unit 1221 and the external output unit 1222. Figure 42 ).

[0469] The sensor component 1220 is not particularly limited in type as long as it can detect the state of the seated person. Examples include pressure-sensitive sensors such as diaphragm switches, electrode sensors that measure impedance changes, pressure sensors including piezoelectric elements, air tube sensors that measure air pressure, electrostatic capacitance sensors that measure changes in electrostatic capacitance, optical sensors that utilize changes in light absorption rate caused by hemoglobin concentration, and radio wave sensors.

[0470] Furthermore, the state of the seated person detected by the sensor component 1220 is not particularly limited, and can include values ​​of biological information such as the presence or absence of the seated person, the seated state, the heart rate, the breathing state, blood flow, or hemoglobin concentration. That is, the sensor component 1220 is appropriately selected according to the detected state of the seated person.

[0471] When the sensor component 1220 is a seating sensor, a diaphragm switch can be used as the detection unit 1221. As the sensor component 1220, various conventionally known sensors such as pressure-sensitive film sensors can be used. The pressure-sensitive film sensor is configured with multiple pressure-sensitive points, and its output distribution is used to detect whether the person is sitting properly.

[0472] The detection unit 1221 and the external output unit 1222 are electrically connected via a conductive part 1224. The external output unit 1222 outputs the signal detected by the detection unit 1221 and has output electrodes. A connector 1223 is connected to the external output unit 1222, and the connector is connected to an electronic control unit (ECU) including electronic circuitry (not shown) that measures the state of the seated person.

[0473] <<<Regarding the configuration of sensor component 1220>>>

[0474] like Figure 42 As shown, a detection section 1221 is disposed on the surface 1210a side (sitting surface side) of the seat cushion pad 1210. A guide section 1224 extending rearward from the detection section 1221 inserts through the through hole 1214 of the seat cushion pad 1210 and bends downward at the first bend 1224a. The guide section 1224, which inserts through the through hole 1214 and reaches the back surface 1210b of the seat cushion pad 1210, extends rearward at the second bend 1224b.

[0475] Furthermore, on the back side 1210b of the seat cushion pad 1210, a connector 1223 is housed in the recess 1212b. Additionally, a decorative cover 1230 covers the surface side 1210a (sitting side) and the recess 1212b of the seat cushion pad 1210.

[0476] In other words, the connector 1223 is supported by being sandwiched between the recess 1212b of the seat cushion pad 1210 and the decorative cover 1230. The connector 1223 is not fixed using a mounting bracket, but is simply sandwiched between the recess 1212b and the decorative cover 1230, thus allowing the connector 1223 to be properly fixed using a simple structure.

[0477] The conductive portion 1224 (wiring harness) of the sensor component 1220 is also covered by the decorative cover 1230 on the surface 1210a and back surface 1210b of the seat cushion pad 1210, which stabilizes the seat cushion pad 1210. In particular, regarding the conductive portion 1224, the portion that bends in the second bend 1224b and extends rearward from the through hole 1214 is sandwiched between the back surface 1210b of the seat cushion pad 1210 and the decorative cover 1230, preventing the conductive portion 1224 from over-expanding.

[0478] In the vehicle seat S1201 of this embodiment, the through hole 1214 and the connector 1223 are located behind the seat cushion S1211, relative to the part where the sitting load is applied (hip point).

[0479] Specifically, in the vehicle seat S1201, a recess 1212b (connector receiving portion) for receiving connector 1223 is provided at the rear end 1212 of the seat cushion S1211 (sitting portion) at the position where the load from the seated person is applied. The recess 1212b is covered by a decorative cover 1230, which can suppress the phenomenon that the sitting comfort is reduced due to connector 1223 and can also prevent connector 1223 from falling off.

[0480] Furthermore, a bulge 1212a is formed at the rear end 1212 of the seat cushion pad 1210, which protrudes towards the seating surface, and a recess 1212b is provided in the bulge 1212a. With this structure, the receiving state of the connector 1223 in the recess 1212b becomes stable, which is therefore preferable.

[0481] Furthermore, in the example described, the seating portion is a seat cushion S121 that serves as a hip support portion (seating portion) supporting the buttocks of the person sitting. A bulge 1212a is formed at the rear end 1212 of the seat cushion liner 1210, and a recess 1212b is provided at the rear end of the bulge 1212a. With this structure, the connector 1223 is housed within the recess 1212b of the bulge 1212a formed at the rear end of the seat cushion S121 (hip support portion), thus appropriately suppressing the decrease in seating comfort due to the connector.

[0482] <<<Regarding the case where the concave portion 1212b includes the convex portion 1212c>>>

[0483] like Figure 43 as well as Figure 44 As shown, the recess 1212b of the seat cushion pad 1210 may also include a protrusion 1212c. Specifically, preferably, a protrusion 1212c protruding rearward is formed below the recess 1212b. According to this structure, the connector 1223 received in the recess 1212b is supported from below by the protrusion 1212c, thereby making the receiving state of the connector 1223 in the recess 1212b more stable.

[0484] Moreover, preferably, such as Figure 44As shown, the width L2 of the protrusion 1212c is smaller than the width L1 of the recess 1212b in the width direction of the seat cushion S121 (sitting portion). With this structure, the smaller width L2 of the protrusion 1212c suppresses any impact on the arrangement of the guide portion 1224 (wiring harness), allowing the guide portion 1224 to be appropriately positioned in the recess 1212b.

[0485] <<Variations>>

[0486] The present invention is not limited to the embodiments described. For example, in the described embodiment, the sensor component 1220 is provided in the seat cushion S121, but it may also be provided in the seat back S122. Specifically, the detection unit 1221 may also be disposed on the sitting surface side of the seat back S122, and the recess for receiving the connector 1223 may be formed at the lower end (end) of the seat back liner (not shown).

[0487] Furthermore, in the described embodiment, a recess 1212b is provided at the rear end 1212 of the seat cushion pad 1210. As long as the end of the seat cushion pad S121, which serves as the seating part, avoids the position where the load from the occupant is applied, a recess for receiving the connector can be provided at the end other than the rear end 1212, that is, at the front end 1211 or the side end 1213 of the seat cushion pad 1210.

[0488] The following is for reference Figure 45 as well as Figure 46 The modified example is the seat cushion pad 1210A. Figure 45 This is a top view showing a modified example of the seat cushion pad 1210A. Figure 46 yes Figure 45 The BB cross-sectional view. In the following description, only the parts that differ from the described embodiment will be explained.

[0489] The modified seat cushion pad liner 1210A includes a through hole 1214A with a connector insertion portion 1214Aa for the connector 1223 to pass through to the rear, and a slit 1214Ab at the front. The connector insertion portion 1214Aa is used to allow the connector 1223 and the conductive portion 1224 to pass through from the top to the bottom of the seat cushion pad liner 1210A when the sensor component 1220 is configured during assembly, and includes a size through which the connector 1223 can be inserted.

[0490] like Figure 46 As shown, a conductive portion 1224 of a sensor component 1220 is inserted into the slit 1214Ab. Specifically, the conductive portion 1224, which extends rearward from the detection portion 1221, is inserted into the slit 1214Ab, which is formed in the through hole 1214A of the seat cushion pad liner 1210A, and bends downward.

[0491] Depending on the position of the through hole 1214A in the seat cushion pad 1210A (pad member), the conductive portion 1224 of the sensor member 1220 may be bent into a Z-shape, but by positioning the conductive portion 1224 in the slit 1214Ab of the through hole 1214A, the fixation of the conductive portion 1224 inside the through hole 1214A is improved.

[0492] At this time, the slit 1214Ab extends along the width direction of the seat cushion S121 (sitting part), thereby making it easy to arrange the conduction part 1224 of the sensor component 1220 in the slit 1214Ab.

[0493] Furthermore, the seat cushion S121 (sitting part) is a buttock support part that supports the buttocks of the sitter. The through hole 1214A is disposed on the side of the seat cushion liner 1210A near the rear end 1212A, and the slit 1214Ab is disposed on the front side of the through hole 1214A. In this structure, the guide part 1224 extending from the detection part 1221 disposed in the sitting part can be disposed in the slit 1214Ab and guided rearward.

[0494] Furthermore, preferably, the slit 1214Ab is narrower than the through hole 1214A in the front-back direction of the seat cushion S121 (sitting portion). In this structure, the seat cushion pad 1210A clamps the conduction portion 1224 of the sensor member 1220 in the front-back direction within the slit 1214Ab, thereby properly fixing the sensor member 1220.

[0495] Furthermore, the position of the slit 1214Ab within the through hole 1214A is not limited to the example described above; the slit 1214Ab may also be arranged on the side or rear of the through hole 1214A. Moreover, multiple slits 1214Ab may be formed within the through hole 1214A depending on the number of conductive parts 1224.

[0496] The above description of the chair according to this embodiment uses a vehicle seat (transportation vehicle seat) as an example. The chair of this embodiment is not particularly limited as long as the seating portion has a sensor component, a cushion component, and a cover material, but it is preferably a transportation vehicle seat mounted in a vehicle. Even when the chair of this embodiment is designed as a transportation vehicle seat mounted in a vehicle with limited space, the sensor component can be appropriately configured.

[0497] The chair of this embodiment is not particularly limited in its application as long as the seating part has a sensor component, a cushion component, and a cover material. For example, the chair of this invention can also be used as an office chair for indoor use outside of vehicles.

[0498] According to the chair of the present invention, a recess for receiving a connector is provided at the end of the seating portion that avoids the position where the load from the seated person is applied, and is covered by a skin member, thereby suppressing the phenomenon that the seating comfort decreases due to the connector and suppressing the situation where the connector falls off.

[0499] Furthermore, in the chair according to the invention, by providing a recess in the bulge that rises toward the sitting surface, the connector's receiving state in the recess becomes stable.

[0500] Furthermore, according to the chair of the present invention, the connector is accommodated in the recess of the bulge at the rear end of the hip support, thereby suppressing the phenomenon that the sitting comfort decreases due to the connector.

[0501] Furthermore, in the chair according to the invention, the connector housed in the recess is supported from below by the protrusion, thereby making the housing state of the connector in the recess more stable.

[0502] Furthermore, according to the chair of the present invention, the width of the protrusion is small, thereby suppressing the situation that affects the arrangement of the guide portion, so that the guide portion can be properly arranged.

[0503] Furthermore, according to the chair of the present invention, depending on the position of the through hole of the padding member, the conductive part of the sensor member may be bent into a Z-shape, but by placing the conductive part in the slit of the through hole, the fixation of the conductive part in the through hole is improved.

[0504] Furthermore, the chair according to the invention allows for easy placement of the conductive portion of the sensor component within the slit.

[0505] Furthermore, according to the chair of the present invention, a guide portion extending from the detection portion disposed on the sitting part can be disposed within the slit and guided backward.

[0506] Furthermore, in the chair according to the invention, the padding member clamps the conductive portion of the sensor member in the front-to-back direction within the slit, thereby enabling the sensor member to be properly secured.

[0507] Furthermore, the chair according to the present invention can be appropriately configured with sensor components even when it is designed as a vehicle seat installed in a vehicle with limited space.

[0508] Explanation of symbols

[0509] 1: Seat frame

[0510] 2: Rotating shaft

[0511] 3: Sliding mechanism

[0512] 4: Height adjustment mechanism

[0513] 10: Seat cushion frame

[0514] 11: Side frame of the cushioning pad

[0515] 12: Base frame

[0516] 13: Rear tube

[0517] 14: Elastic Spring

[0518] 20, 20B: Seat back frame

[0519] 21: Back side frame

[0520] 22: Upper Frame

[0521] 23: Lower Frame

[0522] 24: Horizontal Link Frame

[0523] 25: Vertical connection frame

[0524] 26: Steel wire components

[0525] 27: Support Components

[0526] 30, 30A: Shoulder brace

[0527] 31: Shoulder support plate

[0528] 32: Shoulder fluid pocket (first movable part)

[0529] 32A: Inner shoulder fluid pocket

[0530] 32B: External shoulder fluid pocket

[0531] 32a: First shoulder fluid pocket

[0532] 32b: Second shoulder fluid pocket

[0533] 32c: Third shoulder fluid pocket

[0534] 33: Installation components

[0535] 34: Force-applying components

[0536] 34a: Board

[0537] 34b: Rotation shaft

[0538] 34c: Fluid bag

[0539] 35: Lumbar brace

[0540] 36: Lumbar support board

[0541] 37: Waist fluid bag (second movable part)

[0542] 40: Weight sensor

[0543] 41: Vehicle speed sensor

[0544] 42: Steering angle sensor

[0545] 43: Pressure sensor

[0546] 44: Drum pressure sensor

[0547] 45: Rotation angle sensor

[0548] 50: ECU (Electronic Control Unit)

[0549] 51: Acquisition Department

[0550] 52: Judgment Department

[0551] 53: Drive Unit

[0552] 55: Actuator

[0553] 56: Solenoid valve

[0554] 57: Heater

[0555] 58: Vibration-imparting devices

[0556] S1: Vehicle Seats (Seats for Transportation)

[0557] S11: Seat cushioning pad

[0558] S11a: Seat cushion padding

[0559] S11b: Surface material

[0560] S12: Seat back

[0561] S12a: Seat back padding

[0562] S12b: Surface material

[0563] S13: Headrest

[0564] S13a: Headrest padding

[0565] S13b: Surface material

[0566] S13c: Pillar

[0567] 201: Seat frame

[0568] 202: Rotating shaft

[0569] 210: Seat cushion frame

[0570] 220: Seat back frame

[0571] 221: Back Side Frame

[0572] 221a: Lower frame

[0573] 221b: Connecting frame (top frame)

[0574] 222: Upper Frame

[0575] 222a: Vertical section (upper frame)

[0576] 222b: Horizontal section (upper frame)

[0577] 223: Lower Frame

[0578] 224: Horizontal Link Frame

[0579] 225: Vertical connection frame

[0580] 226: Steel wire components

[0581] 227: Central Folding Axle

[0582] 228: Long hole

[0583] 230: Shoulder brace (shoulder support)

[0584] 235: Lumbar brace (lumbar support unit)

[0585] 245: Rotation angle sensor

[0586] 246: Center angle sensor

[0587] 250: ECU

[0588] 251: Acquisition Department

[0589] 252: Judgment Department

[0590] 253: Drive Unit

[0591] 260: Drive mechanism

[0592] 261: Actuator

[0593] 261a: Lifting mast

[0594] 262: Linkage Member

[0595] 263: First connecting structural component

[0596] 264: Second connecting structural component

[0597] 320: Seat back frame

[0598] 321: Back Side Frame

[0599] 322: Upper Frame

[0600] 323: Lower Frame

[0601] 323a: Mounting hole

[0602] 324: Horizontal Link Frame

[0603] 324a: Lower flange

[0604] 324b: Support hole

[0605] 330: Shoulder brace

[0606] 332: Shoulder Fluid Pocket

[0607] 335: Lumbar brace

[0608] 350: ECU

[0609] 360: Bracing Device

[0610] 361: Compression member

[0611] 361a: Central Department

[0612] 361b: Side

[0613] 361c: Installation hook

[0614] 362: Supporting components

[0615] 363: Support wire

[0616] 364: Upper fixing plate

[0617] 364a: Upper fixing plate body

[0618] 364b: Horizontal support pipe

[0619] 364c: Vertical support tube

[0620] 365: Guide wire

[0621] 366: Lower fixing plate

[0622] 366a: Protrusion

[0623] 366b: Through hole

[0624] 367: The First Movable Plate

[0625] 367a: Guided Department

[0626] 368: Second Movable Plate

[0627] 368a: Guided Department

[0628] 369: Third Movable Plate

[0629] 369a: Guided Department

[0630] 370: Lifting mechanism

[0631] 371: Lead screw

[0632] 371a: First leadscrew

[0633] 371b: Second lead screw

[0634] 371c: Third lead screw

[0635] 372: Motor

[0636] 372a: First Motor

[0637] 372b: Second Motor

[0638] 372c: Third Motor

[0639] 373: Transfer Components

[0640] 373a: First transmission component

[0641] 373b: Second transmission component

[0642] 373c: Third transmission component

[0643] 374: Fixed components

[0644] 374a: First upper fixing component

[0645] 374b: First lower fixing component

[0646] 374c: Second upper fixing component

[0647] 374d: Third upper fixing component

[0648] 420: Seat back frame

[0649] 421: Back Side Frame

[0650] 422: Upper Frame

[0651] 423: Lower Frame

[0652] 424: Compression member

[0653] 424a: Upper part

[0654] 424b: Central Department

[0655] 424c: Lower part

[0656] 425: Support wire

[0657] 430: Shoulder brace

[0658] 435: Lumbar brace

[0659] 460: Side brace

[0660] 462: Side fluid pocket (third movable part)

[0661] S401: Vehicle Seats (Seats for Transportation)

[0662] S411: Seat cushioning pad

[0663] S412: Seat back

[0664] S412b: Outer Material

[0665] S413: Headrest

[0666] 510: Seat cushion frame

[0667] 511: Side frame of the cushioning pad

[0668] 512: Base Frame

[0669] 513: Front tube

[0670] 514: Rear tube

[0671] 520: Compression member

[0672] 521: Steel wire

[0673] 522: Front pressure plate

[0674] 523: Central pressure plate

[0675] 523b: Through hole

[0676] 523c: Slit

[0677] 524: Rear pressure plate

[0678] 524b: Body section

[0679] 524c: Inclined section

[0680] 524d: Convex Rib

[0681] 524e: Through hole

[0682] 530: Supporting components

[0683] 531: First Part

[0684] 532: Second part

[0685] 533: Third part

[0686] 534: Fourth Part

[0687] 535: Connecting Part

[0688] 540: Thigh Fluid Bags

[0689] 550: ECU

[0690] 610: Seat cushion frame

[0691] 640: Thigh Fluid Bags

[0692] 710: Seat cushion frame

[0693] 740: Force-applying component

[0694] 741: Torsion Spring

[0695] 742: Support plate

[0696] 743: Thigh Fluid Bags

[0697] 744: Elastic Rotational Body

[0698] 744a: Protrusion

[0699] 750: ECU

[0700] 810: Seat cushion frame

[0701] 811: Side frame of the cushioning pad

[0702] 812: Fixed base frame

[0703] 812a: Longitudinal beam

[0704] 812b: Front beam

[0705] 812c: plate-shaped part

[0706] 812e: Anterior wall

[0707] 812f: Rear wall

[0708] 812g: sidewall

[0709] 812h: Bottom wall

[0710] 812k: Enclosure

[0711] 812l: Reinforced Department

[0712] 812m: Rear flange

[0713] 813: Movable base frame

[0714] 813a: On board

[0715] 813b: Front panel

[0716] 813c: Pressure plate

[0717] 813d: Elongated hole

[0718] 813e: Fixed part

[0719] 814: Front tube

[0720] 815: Rear tube

[0721] 816: Fastening components

[0722] 820: Length adjustment mechanism

[0723] 821: First Actuator

[0724] 821a: First Fluid Bag

[0725] 822: Second Actuator

[0726] 822a: Second Fluid Bag

[0727] 823: Compressor

[0728] 824: First control valve

[0729] 825: First connecting pipe

[0730] 826: Second control valve

[0731] 827: Second connecting pipe

[0732] 828: Operation switch

[0733] 850: ECU

[0734] 911: Seat cushion padding

[0735] 912: Pad Body

[0736] 912a: Central Department

[0737] 912b: Side

[0738] 912c: Cover Installation Section

[0739] 912d: First Card Assembly Part

[0740] 912e: Second Card Assembly

[0741] 920: First Cover Component

[0742] 920a: (This likely refers to a type of part or component)

[0743] 920b: Ventilation hole

[0744] 921: Second cover component

[0745] 921a: The part that is stuck together

[0746] 921b: Seating Sensor Mounting Section

[0747] 930: Surface material

[0748] 941: Ventilation Path

[0749] 942: Inlet

[0750] 943: Blowout

[0751] 945: Seating Sensor

[0752] 946: Control Circuit

[0753] 947: Wiring Harness

[0754] 960: Fluid Bag

[0755] 960a: Thigh Fluid Bag

[0756] 960b: Waist Fluid Bag

[0757] 960c: Side Fluid Bag

[0758] S901: Vehicle Seats (Seats for Transportation)

[0759] S911: Seat cushioning pad

[0760] S912: Seat back

[0761] S913: Headrest

[0762] 1010: Seat cushion frame

[0763] 1046: External Sensors

[0764] 1047: Collision Sensor

[0765] 1050: ECU

[0766] 1051: Acquisition Department

[0767] 1052: Judgment Department

[0768] 1052a: Collision Prediction Unit

[0769] 1052b: Collision Detection Unit

[0770] 1060: Fluid Bag

[0771] 1061: Buttock fluid bags

[0772] 1062: Thigh Fluid Bags

[0773] 1063: Waist Fluid Bag

[0774] 1064: Side Fluid Bag

[0775] 1070: Airbag device

[0776] 1071: Airbag Body

[0777] 1071a: Forward section

[0778] 1071b: Rear section

[0779] 1072: Internal capsule

[0780] 1072a: Discharge port

[0781] 1073: Gas generating device

[0782] S1001: Vehicle Seats (Seats for Transportation Vehicles)

[0783] S1011: Seat cushioning pad

[0784] S1011a: Seat cushion padding

[0785] S1011b: Surface material

[0786] S1012: Seat back

[0787] S1013: Headrest

[0788] 1120: Padding

[0789] 1130: Surface material

[0790] 1131: Quilted pattern

[0791] 1132:convex part

[0792] 1133: concave part

[0793] 1140: Fluid Bag

[0794] 1141: First Fluid Bag

[0795] 1142: Second Fluid Bag

[0796] S1101: Vehicle Seats (Seats for Transportation)

[0797] S1111: Seat cushioning pad

[0798] S1112: Seat back

[0799] S1113: Headrest

[0800] 1210, 1210A: Seat cushion padding (pad component)

[0801] 1210a: Surface

[0802] 1210b: Back

[0803] 1211: Front end (first end)

[0804] 1212, 1212A: Rear end (second end, end)

[0805] 1212a: Drum section

[0806] 1212b: concave part

[0807] 1212c: convex part

[0808] 1213: Side end

[0809] 1214, 1214A: Through hole

[0810] 1214Aa: Connector insertion part

[0811] 1214Ab: Slit

[0812] 1220: Sensor component

[0813] 1221: Testing Department

[0814] 1222: External Output Unit

[0815] 1223: Connector

[0816] 1224: Conducting part (wire harness, wiring component)

[0817] 1224a: First bend

[0818] 1224b: Second bend

[0819] 1230: Decorative cover (outer skin material)

[0820] S1201: Vehicle Seats (Seats for Transportation)

[0821] S1211: Seat cushion (sitting area)

[0822] S1212: Seat back (sitting area)

[0823] S1213: Headrest

Claims

1. A seat for a vehicle, comprising: Seat back frame; The outer skin material covers the seat back frame; A movable body is disposed between the seat back frame and the cover material, and protrudes forward relative to the seat back frame; The vehicle seat is characterized by having a control device for controlling the movement of the movable body. The movable body has: The first movable parts on the left and right are disposed on the upper part of the seat back frame; as well as The second movable body is disposed below the first movable body in the seat back frame. The control device controls the protrusion of the other body based on the protrusion of either the first movable body or the second movable body. in, The vehicle seat includes a lifting mechanism that supports the first movable body so that it can be raised and lowered relative to the seat back frame in the vertical direction.

2. The vehicle seat according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first movable part is a shoulder movable part that supports the occupant's shoulder. The second movable part is a waist movable part that supports the occupant's waist. When the control device controls the protrusion of the shoulder movable body and the waist movable body, it controls the protrusion of the other movable body to reduce the protrusion of the other movable body when the protrusion of the shoulder movable body and the waist movable body is large.

3. The vehicle seat according to claim 1, characterized in that, The movable body has a bag-like structure that can expand / contract. The control device acquires a pressure signal related to the pressure applied to the bag, and performs control based on the pressure signal to limit the amount of protrusion of the bag.

4. The vehicle seat according to claim 1, characterized in that, The control device acquires a steering angle signal related to the vehicle's steering angle, and controls the protrusion of the movable body in real time based on the steering angle signal.

5. The vehicle seat according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first movable body has: an inner first movable body disposed on the left and right sides of the seat back frame in the seat width direction; and left and right outer first movable bodies disposed on the outer side of the inner first movable body in the seat width direction.

6. The vehicle seat according to claim 1, characterized in that, The seat back frame has: The lower left and right side frames extend in the vertical direction; The left and right upper side frames are mounted on the upper ends of the left and right lower side frames respectively, and are capable of rotating in the front-back direction relative to the lower side frames; and Upper frame, connecting to the upper side frame, The first movable body is positioned in a position where it is sandwiched between the left and right upper side frames in the width direction of the seat.

7. The vehicle seat according to claim 6, characterized in that, The vehicle seat includes a seat cushion frame. The seat back frame is mounted at the rear end of the seat cushion frame and is capable of rotating in the fore-and-aft direction relative to the seat cushion frame. The control device acquires a first rotation angle signal related to the rotation angle of the seat back frame relative to the seat cushion frame, and a second rotation angle signal related to the rotation angle of the upper frame relative to the lower frame, and controls the protrusion amount of the movable body based on the first rotation angle signal and the second rotation angle signal.

8. The vehicle seat according to claim 1, characterized in that, The lifting mechanism supports the second movable body so that it can move up and down relative to the seat back frame. The control device controls the lifting mechanism so that the first movable body moves up and down in relation to the vertical position of the second movable body.

9. The vehicle seat according to claim 1, characterized in that, The movable body has left and right third movable bodies, which are arranged in the vertical direction of the seat back frame between the first movable body and the second movable body. The third movable body has multiple bags that can expand / contract. The multiple bags are stacked, have different sizes, and are arranged in different directions.

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