Seat skin material and seat containing the same

Abstract

Provided are a seat cover material as a three-dimensional knitted fabric that balances sitting comfort and thermal comfort, and that is also excellent in wear resistance, and a seat including the seat cover material. The seat cover material of the present invention is characterized by including a three-dimensional knitted fabric composed of a surface layer knitted fabric, a back layer knitted fabric, and a connecting yarn connecting the surface layer knitted fabric and the back layer knitted fabric, an outer side of the surface layer knitted fabric being a seating surface, a value of thermal conductivity of the seat cover material being 8.0 W / (m 2 ·°C) or more, a value of air permeability from the back layer knitted fabric of the three-dimensional knitted fabric toward the surface layer knitted fabric being 50 cc / cm 2 / sec or more, a value of heat dissipation being 5.0 W / (m 2 ·°C) or more, and a contact cool feeling of the seating surface being 75 W / (m 2 ·°C) or more.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present application relates to a seat skin material and a seat comprising the same. BACKGROUND

[0002] Conventionally, polyurethane foam has been used as a cushioning material for various chairs and seats. However, polyurethane foam has various problems such as difficulty in handling chemicals used in the manufacturing process, generation of toxic gases in the case of disposal, and difficulty in recycling. In addition, a cushioning material made of foamed polyurethane has poor air permeability and heat dissipation, and a user feels hot and sticky during seating, and thus a comfortable seating feeling is not obtained. Therefore, in recent years, a three-dimensional knitted fabric or the like has been used as a cushioning material to replace polyurethane foam.

[0003] A three-dimensional knitted fabric composed of two layers of knitted fabrics and connecting yarns connecting the two layers of knitted fabrics is used for various applications such as a cushioning material due to excellent air permeability, compression elastic recovery, and the like. Patent Literature 1 below proposes a cushioning material including a three-dimensional knitted fabric having a predetermined MMD value of a skin contact surface, having seating comfort such as cushioning property, body pressure dispersing property, and hand feeling, and having less skin irritation even when in contact with the skin for a long time. In addition, Patent Literature 2 below proposes a three-dimensional knitted fabric that provides a cool feeling by improving heat dissipation using a highly heat-conductive fiber.

[0004] PRIOR ART DOCUMENTS

[0005] PATENT LITERATURE

[0006] Patent Literature 1: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2007-44386

[0007] Patent Literature 2: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2004-190191 SUMMARY

[0008] PROBLEMS TO BE SOLVED BY THE INVENTION

[0009] However, the cushioning material described in Patent Literature 1 does not consider air permeability, heat dissipation, and the like, which are thermal comfort. In addition, the three-dimensional knitted fabric of Patent Literature 2 forms a mesh structure, and a seat skin material forms a point contact with a human body when a person sits thereon, and thus seating comfort is not sufficient in some applications. In addition, the coil density is low, and loads such as friction are concentrated on the coil portion, and thus fluffing occurs after long-term use, and appearance change is easily increased.

[0010] In view of the above technical level, the problem to be solved by the present application is to provide a three-dimensional knitted fabric that balances seating comfort and thermal comfort, and further has excellent wear resistance.

[0011] MEANS FOR SOLVING THE PROBLEM

[0012] In order to solve the above problems, the inventors conducted in-depth research and repeated experiments, and unexpectedly discovered that for seat surface materials containing three-dimensional woven fabrics, when the thermal conductivity, breathability, heat dissipation, and thus the coolness of the seat surface are within a certain range, the above problems are solved, thus completing the present invention.

[0013] That is, the present invention is as described below.

[0014] [1] A seat cover material, characterized in that it contains a three-dimensional woven fabric, which is composed of a surface knitted fabric, an inner knitted fabric, and connecting threads, wherein the connecting threads connect the surface knitted fabric and the inner knitted fabric, the outer surface of the surface knitted fabric is the seating surface, and the thermal conductivity of the seat cover material is 8.0 W / (m²). 2 At temperatures above ℃, the air permeability from the inner layer of the three-dimensional knitted fabric to the outer layer is 50 cc / cm². 2 Above / sec, the heat dissipation value is 5.0W / (m²). 2 The temperature should be above ℃, and the cooling sensation of the seating surface should be 75 W / (m²). 2 ·℃) or above.

[0015] [2] According to the seat cover material described in [1] above, wherein the thermal conductivity of the aforementioned seat cover material is 40.0 W / (m²). 2 ·°C) or less.

[0016] [3] According to the seat cover material described in [1] or [2] above, the breathability from the inner knitted layer of the aforementioned three-dimensional woven fabric to the outer knitted layer is 400cc / cm. 2 / sec or less.

[0017] [4] The seat cover material according to any one of [1] to [3] above, wherein the aforementioned heat dissipation value is 15.0 W / (m²). 2 ·°C) or less.

[0018] [5] The seat cover material according to any one of [1] to [4] above, wherein the contact cooling sensation of the aforementioned seating surface is 200 W / (m²). 2 ·°C) or less.

[0019] [6] The seat cover material according to any one of [1] to [5] above, wherein the contact coolness of the surface opposite to the aforementioned seating surface is 75 W / (m²). 2 ·℃ or above and 200W / (m 2 ·°C) or less.

[0020] [7] The outer skin material according to any one of [1] to [6] above, wherein the air permeability from the connecting layer between the outer knitted fabric and the inner knitted fabric of the aforementioned three-dimensional knitted fabric to the outer knitted fabric is 35cc / cm. 2 / sec or more.

[0021] [8] According to the aforementioned [7] skin material, the air permeability from the connecting layer between the outer knitted layer and the inner knitted layer of the aforementioned three-dimensional knitted fabric to the outer knitted layer is 40cc / cm. 2 / sec or more.

[0022] [9] According to the aforementioned [8] skin material, the air permeability from the connecting layer between the outer knitted layer and the inner knitted layer of the aforementioned three-dimensional knitted fabric to the outer knitted layer is 50cc / cm. 2 / sec or more.

[0023]

[10] The outer skin material according to any one of [1] to [9] above, wherein the air permeability from the connecting layer between the outer knitted fabric and the inner knitted fabric of the aforementioned three-dimensional knitted fabric to the outer knitted fabric is 400cc / cm. 2 / sec or less.

[0024]

[11] The seat cover material according to any one of [1] to

[10] above, wherein the knitted fabric of the aforementioned surface layer contains multifilaments and the loop density of the knitted fabric of the surface layer is 11,000 to 21,000.

[0025]

[12] The seat cover material according to any one of [1] to

[11] above has a thickness of 3 to 15 mm.

[0026]

[13] The seat cover material according to any one of [1] to

[12] above, wherein the thermal conductivity of the aforementioned seat cover material is 40.0 W / (m²). 2 At temperatures below ℃, the air permeability from the inner layer of the three-dimensional knitted fabric to the outer layer is 400cc / cm². 2 Below / sec, the heat dissipation value is 15.0W / (m²). 2 Below ℃, the aforementioned seating surface has a cooling sensation of 200W / (m²). 2 The air permeability of the three-dimensional knitted fabric, which is below ℃ and permeable from the connecting layer between the outer and inner knitted layers to the outer knitted layer, is 50 cc / cm². 2 / sec or more and 400cc / cm 2 / sec or less.

[0027]

[14] A seat containing the seat cover material described in any one of [1] to

[13] above.

[0028] The effects of the invention

[0029] The seat cover material of the present invention, when used as the seat surface, results in a seat that balances sitting comfort and thermal comfort, provides a comfortable seating experience, exhibits excellent wear resistance, and has minimal appearance changes even after long-term use. Detailed Implementation

[0030] The embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below.

[0031] One embodiment of the present invention is a seat cover material, characterized in that it contains a three-dimensional woven fabric, which is composed of a surface knitted fabric, an inner knitted fabric, and connecting threads. The connecting threads connect the surface knitted fabric and the inner knitted fabric. The outer surface of the surface knitted fabric is the seating surface. The thermal conductivity of the seat cover material is 8.0 W / (m²). 2 At temperatures above ℃, the air permeability from the inner layer of the three-dimensional knitted fabric to the outer layer is 50 cc / cm². 2 Above / sec, the heat dissipation value is 5.0W / (m²). 2 The temperature should be above ℃, and the cooling sensation of the seating surface should be 75 W / (m²). 2 ·℃) or above.

[0032] The seat cover material in this embodiment is a three-dimensional woven fabric, which consists of an outer knitted fabric, an inner knitted fabric, and connecting yarns. The connecting yarns connect the outer knitted fabric and the inner knitted fabric, and the outer surface of the outer knitted fabric forms the seat cover material for the seating surface. The aforementioned three-dimensional woven fabric is woven using a warp knitting machine, circular knitting machine, or flat knitting machine with two opposing needle beds. Preferably, the knitting machine size is between 9 and 28.

[0033] The seat cover material of this embodiment is characterized by a thermal conductivity of 8.0 W / (m²). 2 ·℃ or above, preferably 9.0W / (m 2 ·℃ or higher, more preferably 9.5W / (m 2 Thermal conductivity values ​​are above 8.0 W / (m·℃). The values ​​were determined using a Thermo Labo II testing machine manufactured by KATO TECH CO.,LTD. Specific measurement methods are described below. If the thermal conductivity is less than 8.0 W / (m·℃), the thermal conductivity is considered acceptable. 2 If the temperature is below ℃, the body heat will not be released when sitting, compromising comfort, and therefore it is not preferred. To achieve a thermal conductivity of 8.0 W / (m²), 2The thermal conductivity is preferably improved by forming a structure that makes the surface knitted fabric dense, reducing air layers and preventing excessive thickness, and the breathability described later is maintained through the three-dimensional structure. Furthermore, the thermal conductivity of the seat cover material in this embodiment is preferably 40.0 W / (m²). 2 ·°C) or less.

[0034] The seat cover material of this embodiment is characterized by a breathability of 50cc / cm², which allows air to pass through from the inner knitted layer of the three-dimensional woven fabric to the outer knitted layer. 2 / sec or higher, preferably 60cc / cm 2 / sec or higher, preferably 70cc / cm 2 / sec or higher. The aforementioned air permeability was tested using a Frazier testing machine according to JIS-L-1096, 1018 air permeability test method (A method air volume). The specific measurement method for the aforementioned air permeability is described below. If the aforementioned air permeability is less than 50cc / cm 2 If the breathability is 50cc / cm², it will feel stuffy and the temperature and humidity between the seat and the body will increase, compromising comfort, so it is not the preferred choice. 2 A breathability of 400 cc / cm² or higher is suitable for use as a seat cover material in combination with a cushioning component incorporated into a ventilation system. Furthermore, the aforementioned breathability of the seat cover material in this embodiment is preferably 400 cc / cm². 2 / sec or less.

[0035] In this embodiment, the seat cover material preferably has an air permeability of 35cc / cm² from the connecting layer (hereinafter referred to as the "connecting layer") between the outer and inner knitted layers of the three-dimensional woven fabric towards the outer knitted fabric. 2 / sec or higher, preferably 40cc / cm 2 / sec or higher, further optimized to 50cc / cm 2 / sec or higher. The aforementioned air permeability refers to the air permeability of a three-dimensional woven fabric measured according to the JIS L1096, 1018 air permeability test method (Method A). In this method, the test piece of the three-dimensional woven fabric is 15cm square, placed with the outer knitted fabric facing down at the opening of the air permeability testing machine. A 3mm thick, 20cm square silicone rubber sheet is overlapped on the outer side of the inner knitted fabric, thereby blocking air from permeating through the inner knitted fabric. The air permeability refers to the air that enters from the cross-sections of the four sides of the three-dimensional woven fabric, passes through the connecting layer, and permeates through the outer knitted fabric. Furthermore, the aforementioned air permeability of the seat cover material in this embodiment is preferably 400cc / cm². 2 / sec or less.

[0036] The seat cover material of this embodiment is characterized by a heat dissipation value of 5.0 W / (m²). 2 ·℃ or above, preferably 5.2W / (m 2 ·℃ or higher, more preferably 5.5W / (m 2 The heat dissipation performance was measured using a Thermo Labo II testing machine manufactured by KATO TECH CO.,LTD. The specific measurement method is described below. If the heat dissipation performance is less than 5.0 W / (m²), the heat dissipation performance is considered poor. 2 If the temperature is below ℃, heat will accumulate between the body and the seat, compromising comfort, and therefore it is not preferred. To achieve a heat dissipation value of 5.0 W / (m²),... 2 The thermal conductivity is preferably 15.0 W / (m²) or higher, and similarly to the thermal conductivity, the knitted fabric of the surface layer is made dense to reduce air layers, thereby increasing the thermal conductivity. Furthermore, the three-dimensional structure enhances breathability. Additionally, the heat dissipation value of the seat cover material in this embodiment is preferably 15.0 W / (m²). 2 ·°C) or less.

[0037] The seat cover material of this embodiment is characterized by a cooling sensation of 75 W / (m²) on the seat surface. 2 ·℃ or above, preferably 80W / (m 2 ·℃ or higher, preferably 90W / (m 2 The contact cooling sensation was measured using a Thermo Labo II instrument manufactured by KATO TECHCO.,LTD. The specific measurement method is described below. A high contact cooling sensation means that the contact area between the heating plate and the sample's seat surface is large, resulting in no stinging or discomfort when sitting on it, and also indicates a dense seat surface. A dense seat surface reduces friction and other loads concentrated on the coils, suppressing pilling over long-term use. Additionally, if the contact cooling sensation of the surface opposite the seat surface (the outer side of the knitted fabric on the back) is also 75 W / (m²), then... 2 When a person sits at a temperature of ℃ or above, heat is transferred from the seat surface to the surface opposite to the seat surface, and then to the chair frame, which is in contact with the surface opposite to the seat surface. In the case of vehicle seats, the heat is transferred to polyurethane, where heat is easily released, improving the cooling sensation; therefore, this is preferred. Furthermore, the contact cooling sensation of the seat surface of the seat cover material in this embodiment is preferably 200 W / (m²). 2 ·°C) or less.

[0038] For the seat cover material of this embodiment, if the surface knitted fabric is composed of multifilament yarn, the following formula applies:

[0039]

[0040] In the formula, N represents the area of ​​each 2.54cm square (6.45cm). 2The loop density M, which represents the tightness of a single loop, is preferably 11,000 to 21,000, more preferably 12,000 to 19,000, where D is the total fineness (decibels) of the multifilaments forming one loop of the knitted fabric in the surface layer. The specific method for measuring the loop density is described below. If the loop density is 11,000 or higher, the monofilaments forming the loop are less likely to move due to external forces such as friction, and are less prone to pilling. Conversely, if it is 21,000 or lower, a soft hand feel is achieved, and good weaving properties are ensured, thereby guaranteeing sufficient breathability. It should be noted that "the total fineness of the multifilaments forming one loop of the knitted fabric in the surface layer" refers to the total fineness of the multifilaments that form loops, excluding fibers inserted into the knitting or other processes that do not form loops.

[0041] The connecting yarns of the three-dimensional braided structure constituting the seat cover material of this embodiment can be monofilaments or multifilaments, but monofilaments are preferred from the viewpoint of keeping the compressive modulus of elasticity of the seat cover material within an appropriate range and ensuring good compression recovery. As the fiber raw material used in the connecting yarns, fibers from any source can be used, such as poly(1,3-propanediol) terephthalate fibers, polybutylene terephthalate fibers, polyethylene terephthalate fibers, polyamide fibers, polypropylene fibers, polyvinyl chloride fibers, and polyester elastomer fibers. Polyethylene terephthalate fibers are preferred because they improve the recyclability of the seat cover material. The cross-sectional shape of the fibers can be round, triangular, L-shaped, T-shaped, Y-shaped, W-shaped, octagonal, flat, dog-bone, or other polygonal, multi-lobed, hollow, or irregular shapes. A round cross-section is preferred for improving the cushioning durability of the seat cover material. In addition, to prevent the harsh sound caused by the connecting wires rubbing against each other when the seat cover material is compressed, it is preferable to use monofilaments and multifilaments in the combination of connecting wires by interlacing, wire composites, etc., and to use multifilaments as a cushioning material.

[0042] When using monofilaments as connecting threads, monofilaments of any fineness can be used, but for a soft, elastic feel, a fineness of 50 to 600 dtex is preferred, and more preferably 80 to 500 dtex. The connecting threads can form loops within the outer and / or inner knitted fabrics, or they can be attached to the outer and / or inner knitted fabrics in an inserted or adhesive state. At least two connecting threads are preferred for improving the morphological stability of the three-dimensional knitted fabric, as they connect the outer and inner knitted fabrics at opposite angles and in a cross (X-shape) or truss-like configuration. In this case, the connecting threads can be composed of two connecting threads in a cross or truss configuration, or a single identical connecting thread can be folded back on the surface or back, appearing as two threads.

[0043] The fibers used in the outer and inner knitted layers of the three-dimensional woven fabric constituting the seat cover material of this embodiment can include, but are not limited to, any fibers such as polyester fibers (e.g., polyethylene terephthalate, polypropylene-1,3-terephthalate, polybutylene terephthalate), synthetic fibers (e.g., polyamide, acrylic, polypropylene), natural fibers (e.g., cotton, linen, wool), cupro rayon, viscose, lyocell, etc. The cross-sectional shape of the fiber can be round, triangular, L-shaped, T-shaped, Y-shaped, W-shaped, octagonal, flat, dog-bone, polygonal, multi-lobed, hollow, or irregular shapes. The fiber morphology can be any of the following: raw yarn, spun yarn, twisted yarn, false-twist processed yarn, air-woven yarn, fluid jet processed yarn, etc. When the connecting yarn is a monofilament, in order to improve the coverage without the connecting yarn protruding onto the knitted fabric surface, multifilament false-twist processed yarn, spun yarn, or other bulky yarns are preferred. The fineness of the multifilament at this time is usually 150 to 1000 dtex, and the number of filaments can be set arbitrarily. When the fibers used in the outer and inner knitted fabrics are multifilaments, the fineness of the monofilaments is preferably 0.5 to 6.0 dtex, and more preferably 1.0 to 5.0 dtex, which has higher strength.

[0044] The outer knitted fabric, inner knitted fabric, and / or connecting yarns of the three-dimensional woven fabric constituting the seat cover material of this embodiment are preferably colored. Examples of coloring methods include dyeing uncolored yarns in the form of skeins or bobbins (pre-dyeing); coloring by mixing pigments, dyes, etc. in a solution before spinning (solution dyeing); dyeing in the form of a three-dimensional woven fabric; or printing methods such as inkjet or transfer printing.

[0045] The knitting structures of the outer and inner knitting layers of the three-dimensional woven fabric constituting the seat cover material of this embodiment do not need to be the same. They can have different knitting structures and different elongation characteristics. When the standard deviation of the coefficient of kinetic friction of the outer surface of the inner knitting layer is smaller than the standard deviation of the coefficient of kinetic friction of the outer surface of the outer knitting layer, it becomes easier to use as a cover material, etc., which is therefore preferred.

[0046] The number of loop rows / columns in the outer and inner knitted layers of the three-dimensional woven fabric constituting the seat cover material of this embodiment is preferably 18 / 18 to 43 / 28 per 2.54 cm, more preferably 25 / 20 to 40 / 24 per 2.54 cm. If the number of loop rows / columns is within this range, the thermal conductivity and heat dissipation value can be increased while maintaining breathability, and the cooling sensation upon contact can also be increased. To achieve the specified number of loop rows / columns, appropriate selection of the knitting machine size, the number of loop rows on the machine, and the heat setting conditions can be made.

[0047] The thickness of the seat cover material in this embodiment can be arbitrarily set as needed, preferably 2mm or more, more preferably 3mm or more, and even more preferably 15mm or less, more preferably 10mm or less. A thickness of 2mm or more provides sufficient cushioning, while a thickness of 15mm or less simplifies the weaving and finishing of the three-dimensional woven fabric. Furthermore, the unit area weight of the seat cover material in this embodiment is preferably 400–1000 g / m². 2 More preferably 500-800 g / m 2 .

[0048] The finishing method for the three-dimensional woven fabric constituting the seat cover material of this embodiment involves finishing the fabric through processes such as scouring and heat setting when using pre-dyed yarns or solution-dyed yarns. When any one of the knitted fabric constituting the outer layer, the knitted fabric constituting the inner layer, or the connecting yarns is undyed, the fabric of the three-dimensional woven fabric can be finished through processes such as pre-setting, scouring, dyeing, and heat setting. For the final heat setting, which is crucial for controlling the stiffness of the three-dimensional woven fabric, it is preferable to use a tenter frame to adjust the angle of the connecting yarns while tensioning. Furthermore, to improve flame retardancy, it is preferable to apply a flame retardant. The finished three-dimensional woven fabric is then treated at the ends by means of welding, sewing, resin processing, etc., or formed into a desired shape through thermoforming to form the seat cover material, thereby enabling its use in various applications such as hammock chairs. Alternatively, polyurethane can be laminated onto the back of the seating surface as with conventional seat cover materials, but using it without lamination is preferable from a recycling perspective.

[0049] Example

[0050] The present invention will be specifically described below through embodiments and comparative examples, but the present invention is not limited to the embodiments.

[0051] The methods for measuring various physical properties used in the following examples are as described below.

[0052] (1) Thermal conductivity (W / (m) 2 ·℃))

[0053] The test was conducted using a Thermo Labo II testing machine manufactured by KATO TECH CO.,LTD. Specifically, the sample was conditioned at 20°C and 65% RH for at least 24 hours, then a 15cm × 15cm sample was taken, with the opposite side of the seated surface in contact with a heating plate maintained at 20°C. A 5cm × 5cm heating plate heated to 30°C was then placed on the seated side of the sample, and the heat transfer was recorded after 5 minutes. The temperature difference was converted to per 1°C, and the fabric area was converted to per m². 2 (W / (m 2 ·℃)).

[0054] (2) Breathability of the knitted fabric from the inner layer to the outer layer of the three-dimensional knitted fabric (cc / cm) 2 / sec)

[0055] The air permeability of a three-dimensional knitted fabric from the inner knitted side to the outer knitted side was determined using a TAKAYAMAREED CO.,LTD. FX3300 LabAir IV air permeability testing machine, according to JIS-L-1096, 1018 air permeability test method (A method air volume).

[0056] (3) Heat dissipation value (W / (m) 2 ·℃))

[0057] The measurements were performed using a Thermo Labo II testing machine manufactured by KATO TECH CO.,LTD. As a specific testing method, the sample was conditioned at 20°C and 65% RH for at least 24 hours. A 15cm × 15cm sample was taken, ensuring the seat surface was in contact with the heater maintaining a constant temperature of 30°C. The amount of heat supplied to maintain the heater temperature at 30°C at an air velocity of 0.3 m / sec was recorded. The temperature difference was converted to per 1°C, and the sample area was converted to per m². 2 (W / (m 2 ·℃)).

[0058] (4) Cooling sensation upon contact (W / (m) 2 ·℃))

[0059] The measurements were performed using a Thermo Labo II instrument manufactured by KATO TECH CO.,LTD. Specifically, the sample was conditioned at 20°C and 65% RH for at least 24 hours, then sampled at 8cm x 8cm. The maximum heat transfer was recorded the instant the sample, with the test surface facing upwards, was placed on a heating plate heated to 30°C at 20°C and 65% RH. The temperature difference was converted to per 1°C, and the sample area to per m². 2 (W / (m 2 ·℃)).

[0060] (5) Breathability (cc / cm) of the knitted fabric from the connecting layer of the three-dimensional knit to the surface layer. 2 / sec)

[0061] Using a TAKAYAMAREED CO.,LTD. FX3300 LabAir IV air permeability testing machine, a 15cm square test piece of three-dimensional woven fabric was placed with the outer knitted layer facing down in the opening of the air permeability testing machine. A 3mm thick, 20cm square silicone rubber sheet was overlapped on the outer side of the inner knitted layer. The test head of the air permeability testing machine was pressed down from the sheet and fixed with clamps. The air permeability of the three-dimensional woven fabric was measured under suction conditions according to JIS L1096, 1018 air permeability test method (Method A) from the connecting layer of the cross-section of the four sides of the three-dimensional woven fabric to the outer knitted layer.

[0062] (6) Coil density M

[0063] Using a microscope, the dimensions of each 2.54 cm square (6.45 cm) of the three-dimensional woven fabric were measured. 2 The number of loops N (number of loops) in the surface knitted fabric is calculated. Additionally, a filament of 10 cm or more is drawn from the surface knitted fabric, and its length and weight are measured when a load of 15 gf is applied to a single filament. The fineness of the single filament is then calculated. If a loop in the surface knitted fabric is formed from two or more filaments, the total fineness D (dentex) of the multifilaments forming a loop in the surface knitted fabric is measured by calculating the fineness of each filament and summing them. In this case, connecting filaments are not included. It should be noted that if the fineness of the fibers forming the loops in the surface knitted fabric can be measured before knitting the three-dimensional knitted fabric, it is measured according to JIS L 1013. The number of loops N (number of loops) and the total fineness D (dentex) measured as described above are used with the following formula:

[0064] Coil density

[0065] Calculate the coil density M.

[0066] (7) Thermal comfort and seating comfort

[0067] An SUV-type seat with a prototype seat cover material was installed. Ten supervisors (males aged 22-32, height 170cm ± 10cm) were selected to sit in the seat and conduct a sensory evaluation. Each supervisor concealed their personal information while sitting in the seat. It should be noted that all subjects wore identical long-sleeved T-shirts and polyester sweatpants as experimental attire. After sitting quietly for 10 minutes in an artificial climate chamber at 28°C and 50% RH, they were moved to an artificial climate chamber at 32°C and 50% RH and sat quietly for 30 minutes. Then, they sat in the same environment for 10 minutes. Sensory evaluations of seating comfort (including coolness, stuffiness, cushioning, and skin contact sensation) were conducted using the following five-level evaluation criteria. The most frequent value was used as the evaluation result.

[0068] <Evaluation Criteria for Thermal Comfort>

[0069] 5: Comfort

[0070] 4: Slightly comfortable

[0071] 3: It's hard to say which side.

[0072] 2: Slightly slow

[0073] 1: Unhappy.

[0074] <Evaluation Criteria for Seating Comfort>

[0075] 5: Comfort

[0076] 4: Slightly comfortable

[0077] 3: It's hard to say which side.

[0078] 2: Slightly slow

[0079] 1: Unhappy.

[0080] (8) Appearance changes (wear resistance)

[0081] A male weighing 60-65 kg wearing jeans sat in the chair made in (7) above and worked at his desk for a total of 50 hours. The aesthetic changes after use were evaluated using the following evaluation criteria.

[0082] <Evaluation Criteria for Appearance Changes>

[0083] ◎: The aesthetics remain completely unchanged.

[0084] 〇: Slight fuzzing was observed, but the overall appearance remained largely unchanged.

[0085] △: A considerable amount of fuzzing was found, and the aesthetic changes were slightly more pronounced.

[0086] ×: The pilling is intense and the aesthetic changes are dramatic.

[0087] [Example 1]

[0088] Using a double-sided Raschel warp knitting machine equipped with 6 reeds and a gauge of 22 with a needle barrel spacing of 6mm, two reeds (L2, L3) forming the outer knitted fabric are fed with two false-twisted polyethylene terephthalate (PET) fibers of 167 dtex 48 filament in a 1-out-1-in (L2) and 1-in-1-out (L3) arrangement. One reed (L4) forming the connecting part is fed with 110 dtex PET fibers of monofilament in a 1-out-1-in arrangement. Then, two reeds (L5, L6) forming the inner knitted fabric are fed with false-twisted PET fibers of 167 dtex 48 filament in a full-in arrangement.

[0089] A 3D woven fabric was woven using the knitting structure shown below, with a density of 35 rows of loops per 2.54 cm. The resulting woven fabric was stretched by 1% and subjected to dry heat setting at 175°C for 1 minute with an overfeed rate of 0% to obtain the 3D woven fabric, which was then used as the seat upholstery material. The various properties of this seat upholstery material are shown in Table 1 below.

[0090] (Knitted structure)

[0091] L1: -

[0092] L2: 1011 / 2322 /

[0093] L3: 2322 / 1011 /

[0094] L4: 3410 / 4367 /

[0095] L5: 0001 / 1110 /

[0096] L6: 2234 / 2210 /

[0097] [Example 2]

[0098] The seat cover material was obtained with a density of 39 rows of weft yarns per 2.54 cm, otherwise the same as in Example 1. The various physical properties of this seat cover material are shown in Table 1 below.

[0099] [Example 3]

[0100] Using a double-sided Raschel warp knitting machine equipped with 6 reeds and a gauge of 22 with a needle barrel spacing of 6mm, two reeds (L2, L3) forming the outer knitted fabric are fed with two false-twisted polyethylene terephthalate (PET) fibers of 167 dtex and 144 filament in a 1-out-1-in (L2) and 1-in-1-out (L3) arrangement. One reed (L4) forming the connecting part is fed with PET fibers of 110 dtex in a 1-out-1-in arrangement. Then, two reeds (L5, L6) forming the inner knitted fabric are fed with false-twisted PET fibers of 167 dtex and 48 filament in a full-in arrangement.

[0101] A 3D woven fabric was woven using the knitting structure shown below, with a density of 35 rows of loops per 2.54 cm. The resulting woven fabric was stretched by 1% and subjected to dry heat setting at 175°C for 1 minute with an overfeed rate of 0% to obtain the 3D woven fabric, which was then used as the seat upholstery material. The various properties of this seat upholstery material are shown in Table 1 below.

[0102] (Knitted structure)

[0103] L1: -

[0104] L2: 2133 / 4533 /

[0105] L3: 3422 / 1022 /

[0106] L4: 4521 / 4367 /

[0107] L5: 0001 / 1110 /

[0108] L6: 2234 / 2210 /

[0109] [Example 4]

[0110] Using a double-sided Raschel warp knitting machine equipped with 6 reeds and a gauge of 22 with a needle barrel spacing of 6mm, two reeds (L2, L3) forming the outer knitted fabric are fed with two false-twisted polyethylene terephthalate (PET) fibers of 167 dtex 48 filament in a 1-out-1-in (L2) and 1-in-1-out (L3) arrangement. One reed (L4) forming the connecting part is fed with 110 dtex PET fibers of monofilament in a 1-out-1-in arrangement. Then, two reeds (L5, L6) forming the inner knitted fabric are fed with false-twisted PET fibers of 167 dtex 48 filament in a full-in arrangement.

[0111] A 3D woven fabric was woven using the knitting structure shown below, with a density of 35 rows of loops per 2.54 cm. The resulting woven fabric was stretched by 1% and subjected to dry heat setting at 175°C for 1 minute with an overfeed rate of 0% to obtain the 3D woven fabric, which was then used as the seat upholstery material. The various properties of this seat upholstery material are shown in Table 1 below.

[0112] (Knitted structure)

[0113] L1: No silk supply

[0114] L2: 1011 / 1233 / 4544 / 4322 /

[0115] L3: 4544 / 4322 / 1011 / 1233 /

[0116] L4: 3410 / 3245 / 2145 / 2310 /

[0117] L5: 0001 / 1110 /

[0118] L6: 2234 / 2210 /

[0119] [Example 5]

[0120] The obtained preform was stretched by 10% and subjected to dry heat setting at 175°C for 1 minute with an overfeed rate of 0%, otherwise the same as in Example 4, to obtain a three-dimensional woven fabric. This was used as a seat cover material. The various properties of this seat cover material are shown in Table 1 below.

[0121] [Example 6]

[0122] The obtained grease was stretched by 15% and subjected to dry heat setting at 175°C for 1 minute with an overfeed rate of 0%, otherwise, a three-dimensional woven fabric was obtained in the same manner as in Example 4. The inside side of this knitted fabric was used as the seating surface to form a seat cover material. The various properties of this seat cover material are shown in Table 1 below.

[0123] [Example 7]

[0124] Using a double-sided Raschel warp knitting machine equipped with 6 reeds, gauge 22, and a needle cylinder spacing of 6mm, two reeds (L2, L3) forming the surface knitted fabric were fed together with two false-twisted polyethylene terephthalate fibers of 111 dtex 24 filament in a 1-out-1-in (L2) and 1-in-1-out (L3) arrangement. Otherwise, the greige fabric of the three-dimensional knitted fabric was knitted in the same manner as in Example 1. The resulting greige fabric was stretched to 15% and subjected to dry heat setting at 175°C for 1 minute with an overfeed rate of 0% to obtain the three-dimensional knitted fabric, which was used as the seat cover material. The various physical properties of this seat cover material are shown in Table 1 below.

[0125] [Comparative Example 1]

[0126] Using a double-sided Raschel warp knitting machine equipped with 6 reeds, size 14, and a needle barrel spacing of 13mm, the two reeds (L1, L2) forming the outer knitted fabric are fed with cupro rayon (short fiber filament) No. 20 monofilament in a 2-in-2-out arrangement to the L1 guide device and in a 2-out-2-in arrangement to the L2 guide device. The two reeds (L5, L6) forming the inner knitted fabric are fed with polyethylene terephthalate false-twist yarn (two strands of 167 dtex 48 filament combined) in a 2-in-2-out arrangement to the L5 guide device and in a 2-out-2-in arrangement to the L6 guide device. Furthermore, the reed of L4, which forms the connecting wire, supplies 390 dBm poly(1,3-propanediol) terephthalate monofilaments to the L3 guiding device in a 2-in-2-out arrangement and to the L4 guiding device in a 2-out-2-in arrangement.

[0127] A 3D woven fabric was woven using the knitting structure shown below, with a density of 15 rows of loops per 2.54 cm. The resulting fabric was stretched to 30% width and then heat-set at 170°C for 2 minutes to obtain the 3D woven fabric, which was used as the seat upholstery material. The various properties of this seat upholstery material are shown in Table 2 below.

[0128] (Knitted structure)

[0129] L1: 4544 / 2322 / 1011 / 3233 /

[0130] L2: 1011 / 3233 / 4544 / 2322 /

[0131] L3: 4545 / 2323 / 1010 / 3232 /

[0132] L4: 1010 / 3232 / 4545 / 2323 /

[0133] L5: 3345 / 4423 / 2210 / 1132 /

[0134] L6: 2210 / 1132 / 3345 / 4423 /

[0135] [Comparative Example 2]

[0136] Using a double-sided Raschel warp knitting machine equipped with 6 reeds, size 14, and a needle barrel spacing of 14.2mm, two reeds (L1, L2) forming the surface knit fabric are fed with two false-twisted polyethylene terephthalate (PET) fibers of 500 dtex 144 filament in a 1-in-1-out (L1) and 1-out-1-in (L2) arrangement. Two reeds (L3, L4) forming the connecting section are fed with a 1-in-1-out (L3) and 1-out-1-in arrangement. One reed (L4) is supplied with monofilaments of 440 dtex polyethylene terephthalate (PET) fiber. Then, one reed (L5) forming the inner knitted fabric is supplied with false-twist filaments of 500 dtex 144 filament polyethylene terephthalate fiber in a full-pitch arrangement. Another reed (L6) is supplied with monofilaments of 440 dtex polyethylene terephthalate (PET) fiber in a full-pitch arrangement.

[0137] A 3D woven fabric was woven using the knitting structure shown below, with a density of 12.8 rows of loops per 2.54 cm. The resulting woven fabric was stretched to 4% width and then subjected to dry heat setting at 160°C for 2 minutes and 30 seconds with an overfeed rate of 0% to obtain the 3D woven fabric, which was used as the seat upholstery material. The various properties of this seat upholstery material are shown in Table 2 below.

[0138] (Knitted structure)

[0139] L1: 1011 / 1233 / 4544 / 4322 /

[0140] L2: 4544 / 4322 / 1011 / 1233 /

[0141] L3: 1023 / 1032 / 4532 / 4523 /

[0142] L4: 4532 / 4523 / 1023 / 1032 /

[0143] L5: 0001 / 1110 /

[0144] L6: 2245 / 3310 /

[0145] [Comparative Example 3]

[0146] Using a double-sided Raschel warp knitting machine equipped with 6 reeds, gauge 14, and a needle barrel spacing of 13mm, the reeds (L1, L2) forming the outer knit fabric are supplied with 500 dtex 144 filament polyethylene terephthalate false-twist yarn (3 strands of 167 dtex 48 filament polyethylene terephthalate false-twist yarn, doubling and interlacing) in a full-feed arrangement. The reed (L3) forming the connecting yarn is supplied with 390 dtex polyethylene terephthalate monofilament in a full-feed arrangement. Furthermore, the reeds (L5, L6) forming the inner knit fabric are supplied with 500 dtex 144 filament polyethylene terephthalate false-twist yarn (3 strands of 167 dtex 48 filament high-strength polyethylene terephthalate false-twist yarn, doubling and interlacing) in a full-feed arrangement.

[0147] A bast fabric for a three-dimensional knitted fabric was woven using the knitting structure shown below, with a density of 13.5 rows of loops per 2.54 cm. The resulting bast fabric was stretched by 3% and subjected to dry heat setting at 170°C for 2 minutes to obtain the three-dimensional knitted fabric, which was then used as the seat upholstery material. The various physical properties of this seat upholstery material are shown in Table 2 below.

[0148] (Knitted structure)

[0149] L1: 2322 / 1011 /

[0150] L2: 1011 / 1211 /

[0151] L3: 3410 / 4367 /

[0152] L5: 1110 / 0001 /

[0153] L6: 2210 / 2234 /

[0154] [Comparative Example 4]

[0155] Using a double-sided Raschel warp knitting machine equipped with 6 reeds, size 14, and a needle barrel spacing of 13mm, the two reeds (L1, L2) forming the outer knit fabric are fed with 668 dtex 192 filament polyethylene terephthalate false-twist yarn (four strands of 167 dtex 48 filament combined) in a full-feed arrangement. The two reeds (L5, L6) forming the inner knit fabric are also fed with the same false-twist yarn in a full-feed arrangement. Furthermore, the reed L3 forming the connecting yarn is fed with 390 dtex polyethylene terephthalate monofilament in a full-feed arrangement.

[0156] A 3D woven fabric was woven using the knitting structure shown below, with a density of 12 rows of loops per 2.54 cm. The resulting woven fabric was stretched by 5% and subjected to dry heat setting at 170°C for 2 minutes to obtain the 3D woven fabric, which was then used as the seat upholstery material. The various properties of this seat upholstery material are shown in Table 2 below.

[0157] (Knitted structure)

[0158] L1: 1011 / 2322 /

[0159] L2: 2322 / 1011 /

[0160] L3: 4367 / 3410 /

[0161] L5: 0001 / 1110 /

[0162] L6: 2234 / 2210 /

[0163] [Comparative Example 5]

[0164] A three-dimensional woven fabric was obtained with a weft density of 41 rows per 2.54 cm, otherwise identical to that in Example 1, and used as the seat cover material. The various properties of this seat cover material are shown in Table 2 below. It should be noted that the weaveability of this three-dimensional woven fabric is very poor.

[0165] [Table 1]

[0166]

[0167] [Table 2]

[0168]

[0169] Industrial availability

[0170] The seat cover material of the present invention, when used as the seat surface, takes into account both sitting comfort and thermal comfort, resulting in a comfortable sitting experience. Furthermore, it has excellent wear resistance and minimal appearance changes even after long-term use. Therefore, it can be appropriately used for seats in furniture, office use, automobiles, railway vehicles, aircraft, child seats, strollers, wheelchairs, and other vehicles, as well as for headrests and armrests.

Claims

1. A seat cover material, characterized in that, It contains a three-dimensional woven fabric, which consists of an outer knitted fabric, an inner knitted fabric, and connecting threads. The connecting threads connect the outer knitted fabric and the inner knitted fabric. The outer surface of the outer knitted fabric forms the seating surface. The thermal conductivity of the seat cover material is 8.0 W / (m²). 2 At temperatures above ℃, the air permeability from the inner layer of the three-dimensional knitted fabric to the outer layer is 50 cc / cm². 2 Above / sec, the heat dissipation value is 5.0W / (m²). 2 The temperature should be above ℃, and the cooling sensation of the seating surface should be 75 W / (m²). 2 ·℃) or above, The surface knitted fabric contains multifilaments, and the loop density of the surface knitted fabric is 11,000 to 21,000.

2. The seat cover material according to claim 1, wherein, The thermal conductivity of the seat cover material is 9.5 W / (m²). 2 ·℃) or above.

3. The seat cover material according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The thermal conductivity of the seat cover material is 40.0 W / (m²). 2 ·°C) or less.

4. The seat cover material according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The air permeability from the inner knitted layer to the outer knitted layer of the three-dimensional knitted fabric is 70 cc / cm. 2 / sec or more.

5. The seat cover material according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The air permeability from the inner knitted layer to the outer knitted layer of the three-dimensional knitted fabric is 400cc / cm. 2 / sec or less.

6. The seat cover material according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The heat dissipation value is 5.5 W / (m²). 2 ·℃) or above.

7. The seat cover material according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The heat dissipation value is 15.0 W / (m²). 2 ·°C) or less.

8. The seat cover material according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The cooling sensation of the seating surface is 90 W / (m²). 2 ·℃) or above.

9. The seat cover material according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The cooling sensation of the seating surface is 200W / (m²). 2 ·°C) or less.

10. The seat cover material according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The cooling sensation of the surface opposite to the seating surface is 75 W / (m²). 2 ·℃ or above and 200W / (m 2 ·°C) or less.

11. The skin material according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The air permeability from the connecting layer between the outer and inner knitted layers of the three-dimensional knitted fabric to the outer knitted fabric is 35cc / cm. 2 / sec or more.

12. The skin material according to claim 11, wherein, The air permeability from the connecting layer between the outer and inner knitted layers of the three-dimensional knitted fabric to the outer knitted fabric is 40 cc / cm. 2 / sec or more.

13. The skin material according to claim 12, wherein, The air permeability from the connecting layer between the outer and inner knitted layers of the three-dimensional knitted fabric to the outer knitted fabric is 50 cc / cm. 2 / sec or more.

14. The skin material according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The air permeability from the connecting layer between the outer and inner knitted layers of the three-dimensional knitted fabric to the outer knitted fabric is 400cc / cm². 2 / sec or less.

15. The seat cover material according to claim 1, wherein, The loop density of the knitted fabric on the surface is 12,000 to 19,000.

16. The seat upholstery material according to claim 1 or 15, wherein, The coil density is expressed by the following formula. In the formula, N represents 6.45 cm squared, which is 2.54 cm. 2 The number of loops in the surface knitted fabric, D is the total fineness of the multifilaments forming one loop of the surface knitted fabric, where N is in units of loops and D is in decibels.

17. The seat cover material according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The connecting wire uses monofilament and / or multifilament.

18. The seat cover material according to claim 17, wherein, The connecting wire is a monofilament with a fineness of 50 to 600 dtex.

19. The seat cover material according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The number of loops in the outer and inner knitted layers of the three-dimensional woven fabric is 18 / 18 to 43 / 28 per row / 2.54 cm.

20. The seat cover material according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The number of loops in the outer and inner knitted layers of the three-dimensional woven fabric is 25 / 20 to 40 / 24 per row / 2.54 cm.

21. The seat cover material according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the thickness is 3 to 15 mm.

22. The seat cover material according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the thickness is 3 to 10 mm.

23. The seat cover material according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the weight per unit area is 400–1000 g / m². 2 .

24. The seat cover material according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the weight per unit area is 500-800 g / m². 2 .

25. The seat cover material according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The thermal conductivity of the seat cover material is 40.0 W / (m²). 2 At temperatures below ℃, the air permeability from the inner layer of the three-dimensional knitted fabric to the outer layer is 400cc / cm². 2 Below / sec, the heat dissipation value is 15.0W / (m²). 2 The cooling sensation of the seating surface is 200 W / (m²) below ℃. 2 The air permeability of the three-dimensional knitted fabric, which is below ℃ and permeable from the connecting layer between the outer and inner knitted layers to the outer knitted layer, is 50 cc / cm². 2 / sec or more and 400cc / cm 2 / sec or less.

26. A seat comprising the seat cover material according to any one of claims 1 to 25.

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