Massage assembly with built-in haptic motor

Abstract

The invention relates to a massage assembly with built-in haptic motors. An assembly includes: a plurality of fluid impermeable sheets cooperating with each other to form one or more fluid chambers, where the one or more fluid chambers are in fluid communication with a fluid supply channel; and a vibration motor associated with the one or more fluid chambers.

Description

[0001] Related Applications

[0002] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 514,942, filed on July 21, 2023, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. background

[0004] The seat may include a lumbar support, a bolster, and massage bladders that are inflated and deflated to provide support or a massage effect. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0006] Figure 1 is a schematic view of a first embodiment of a massage bladder having a haptic motor disposed thereon.

[0007] Figure 2 1 is a top view of a first embodiment of a massage bladder.

[0008] Figure 3 is a top perspective view of a second embodiment of a massage bladder with a haptic motor disposed thereon.

[0009] Figure 4 is a top perspective view of a third embodiment of a massage bladder having a haptic motor disposed thereon.

[0010] Figure 5 is a partial cross-sectional view of a seat assembly. Detailed Description

[0012] Reference will now be made in detail to embodiments, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. In the detailed description that follows, many specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the various embodiments described. However, it is apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art that the various embodiments described may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known methods, processes, components, circuits, and networks are not described in detail to avoid unnecessarily obscuring aspects of the embodiments.

[0013] “One or more” includes a function performed by one element, a function performed by more than one element (eg, in a distributed manner), several functions performed by one element, several functions performed by several elements, or any combination of the foregoing.

[0014] It should also be understood that, although in some cases, the terms first, second, etc. are used herein to describe various elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element from another element. For example, a first contact may be referred to as a second contact, and similarly, a second contact may be referred to as a first contact without departing from the scope of the various embodiments described. Both the first contact and the second contact are contacts, but they are not the same contact.

[0015] The terms used in the description of the various embodiments described herein are only used for the purpose of describing specific embodiments and are not intended to be limiting. As used in the description of the various described embodiments and the appended claims, the singular forms "a", "an" and "the" are intended to also include plural forms unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It should also be understood that the term "and / or" as used herein refers to and covers any and all possible combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. It should be further understood that when used in this specification, the terms "includes", "including", "comprises" and / or "comprising" specify the presence of the features, wholes, steps, operations, elements and / or parts, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, wholes, steps, operations, elements, parts and / or groups thereof.

[0016] As used herein, the term "if" is optionally interpreted to mean "when..." or "upon..." or "in response to determining..." or "in response to detecting...", as the context requires. Similarly, the phrases "if it is determined" or "if [the condition or event] is detected" are optionally interpreted to mean "upon determining..." or "in response to determining..." or "upon detecting [the condition or event]" or "in response to detecting [the condition or event]", as the context requires.

[0017] It should be understood that terms such as "about," "substantially," and "approximately" are not intended to be open-ended terms, and should be interpreted in the same manner as those skilled in the art interpret these terms.

[0018] As required, detailed embodiments of the present invention are disclosed herein. However, it should be understood that the disclosed embodiments are only examples of the present invention that can be implemented in various forms and alternative forms. The accompanying drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale. Some features may be enlarged or minimized to show the details of specific components. The specific structural details and functional details disclosed herein should not be interpreted as restrictive, but only as a representative basis for teaching those skilled in the art to implement the present invention in various ways.

[0019] As will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art, the various features illustrated and described with reference to any of the figures in the accompanying drawings may be combined with the features illustrated in one or more other figures to produce embodiments that are not explicitly illustrated or described. The combination of the illustrated features provides representative embodiments for typical applications. However, for specific applications or implementations, various combinations and modifications of the features consistent with the teachings of the present disclosure may be desired.

[0020] In addition, unless otherwise expressly stated, all numerical quantities in the present disclosure are to be understood as being modified by the word "about" in a manner that describes the broader scope of the present disclosure. Practice within the stated numerical limits is generally preferred. In addition, unless expressly stated to the contrary: percentages, "parts of ..." and ratio values ​​are calculated by weight. The term "polymer" includes "oligomers", "copolymers", "terpolymers", etc. Describing a group or class of materials as suitable or preferred for a given purpose means that a mixture of any two or more members of the group or class is equally suitable or preferred. The molecular weight provided for any polymer refers to the number-average molecular weight. The description of the ingredients in chemical terms refers to the ingredients when added to any combination specified in the description, and does not necessarily exclude chemical interactions between the ingredients of the mixture after mixing. The first definition of an acronym or other abbreviation applies to all subsequent uses of the same abbreviation in this article, and applies to common grammatical variants of the initially defined abbreviation after necessary modifications. Unless expressly stated to the contrary, the measurement of the property is determined by the same technology as that mentioned in the preceding or following text for the same property.

[0021] The present disclosure is not limited to the specific embodiments and methods described below, as specific components and / or conditions may vary. Additionally, the terminology used herein is used only for the purpose of describing specific embodiments and is not intended to be limiting in any way.

[0022] The terms "substantially" or "generally" may be used herein to describe disclosed or claimed embodiments. The terms "substantially" or "generally" may modify a value or relative characteristic disclosed or claimed in the present disclosure. In such cases, "substantially" or "generally" may mean that the value or relative characteristic it modifies is within manufacturing tolerances or within ±0%, ±0.1%, ±0.5%, ±1%, ±2%, ±3%, ±4%, ±5%, or ±10% of the value or relative characteristic.

[0023] It should also be appreciated that integer ranges explicitly include all intermediate integers. For example, the integer range 1 to 10 explicitly includes 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, and 10.

[0024] Similarly, the range 1 to 100 includes 1, 2, 3, 4 ... 97, 98, 99, 100. Similarly, when any range is claimed, the difference between the upper and lower limits divided by 10 as the intermediate numbers in increments may be considered as optional upper or lower limits. For example, if the range is 1.1 to 2.1, the following numbers 1.2, 1.3, 1.4, 1.5, 1.6, 1.7, 1.8, 1.9 and 2.0 may be selected as lower or upper limits.

[0025] The present disclosure relates to massage assemblies, and more particularly to massage assemblies for vehicular seats that include haptic motors.

[0026] refer to Figure 1-Figure 5 , a capsule 100 is provided, which includes a massage component 25 ( Figure 5 ). In various embodiments, the massage assembly 25 is disposed in a seat 10 such as for a vehicle (e.g., a motorcycle, an automobile, a boat, an airplane, a locomotive, or any other seating environment). In a refinement, the vibration (e.g., haptic) motor 102 is disposed in a container 104 of the capsule 100 or at or near a vertex 106 of the capsule 100.

[0027] In one or more embodiments, the massage assembly 25 includes a bladder assembly that includes one or more bladders 100 (e.g., a plurality of bladders). Figures 1 to 4 The capsule 100 shown in the figure can represent each capsule in the capsule assembly. The one or more capsules are in fluid communication with a fluid displacing device (e.g., a fluid actuator), such as a pump, a compressor, a fan and / or a blower. In various embodiments, the fluid displacement device transfers and moves a fluid such as air or water to fill one or more capsules, thereby providing a massage effect to the occupant. In a variant, a valve assembly (e.g., a fluid actuator) is disposed between the capsule assembly and the fluid displacement device. The valve assembly cooperates with the fluid displacement device and the capsule assembly to provide a massage effect. In an improved embodiment, the capsule assembly is in fluid communication with the fluid displacement device via one or more fluid channels 120 (such as pneumatic conduits). In various embodiments, the fluid channel 120 cooperates with the fluid chamber 108 of the capsule 100 and / or is arranged relative to the vibration motor 102 so that the fluid enters the capsule 100 at the point farthest from the occupant, and the vibration motor 102 is arranged so that the vibration motor 102 is closest to the occupant / outermost portion.

[0028] In various embodiments, each bladder 100 defines one or more fluid chambers 108, such as a plurality of chambers. For example, in a variation, a bellows-type (eg, accordion-shaped) bladder is used, such as Figure 1 and Figure 2 Alternatively, a spherical (e.g., hemispherical) shaped capsule may be used, such as Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown. In an improved embodiment, a plurality of sheets (e.g., a first sheet 110, a second sheet 112, and a third sheet 114), such as impermeable plastic (e.g., polyurethane or polyethylene) sheets, cooperate to form the capsule 100 and define one or more chambers 108. In a variation, the first sheet 110 cooperates with the second sheet 112 to define a first fluid chamber, and the second sheet 112 cooperates with the third sheet 114 to define a second fluid chamber. In some embodiments, the second sheet 112 also defines a port 116 to provide a passage of fluid from the first chamber to the second chamber (and / or vice versa). In various embodiments, the capsule 100 includes a fourth sheet 118, which cooperates with the third sheet 114 to define a container 104 (e.g., a pocket) that accommodates the vibration motor 102. For example, the various sheets may be secured to one another to form a fluid (eg, air) impermeable seal, such as by heat staking, fusing, bonding, welding, adhesives, or any other suitable means to secure the sheets together, either alone or in combination.

[0029] In an improved solution, the vibration motor 102 is disposed on the bladder 100 adjacent to the fluid chamber 108, such as at or near the apex 106 of the bladder 100. Thus, the vibration motor 102 is adjacent to the occupant to provide a relatively strong vibration effect to the outermost surface of the bladder assembly (i.e., the occupant) when the bladder is filled with fluid. For example, the vibration motor 102 provides a vibration massage effect and / or tactile feedback. In a variant solution, the vibration motor 102 is disposed at the apex of the bladder 100 and can be enclosed within a portion of the bladder 100, such as enclosed in a container or additional chamber formed between the sheets 114, 118.

[0030] In embodiments, any type of attachment configuration may be used to mount the vibration motor 102 to the capsule 100. For example, adhesive 124 may be applied under the motor or over the motor to attach the motor to the capsule 100, such as Figure 3 In another example, Figure 2 and Figure 4 As shown, the vibration motor 102 may be housed / mounted in an opening formed in the bladder 100. Other types of attachments may also be used, such as heat staking, fusing, bonding, welding, etc.

[0031] In some embodiments, such as when the vibration motor 102 is disposed within a container or between sheets 114, 118 (e.g., a third sheet and a fourth sheet), the third sheet and / or the fourth sheet include an aperture such as for a cable 122 to provide electrical communication and / or power to the vibration motor 102. If the aperture is disposed in the third sheet, it may need to be sealed to provide impermeability so that the fluid chamber can be filled. In a refinement, the aperture is disposed in the fourth sheet so that it does not need to be sealed.

[0032] In various embodiments, the vibration motor 102 is in communication with a control system that includes a controller 20 (in the embodiment of the present invention) programmed to operate the vibration motor 102. Figure 5 ). In a variation, the control system operates or controls the vehicle and cooperates with the vibration motor 102 of the massage assembly. In an improvement, the controller 20 operates the vibration motor 102 based on one or more operational controls (e.g., control inputs) such as the vehicle and / or the massage assembly. For example, the controller 20 receives a request from the occupant for a vibration massage and, for example, continuously operates the vibration motor 102 to provide a vibration massage effect. In a variation, the controller 20 also operates the vibration motor 102 in response to various other vehicle controls, such as, but not limited to: seat adjustment (e.g., changing seat settings, such as the position of the seat 10, the heating / cooling system of the seat 10 and / or the vehicle, the ventilation system of the seat 10 and / or the vehicle); changing the dashboard and / or control panel settings, such as the radio station, volume, navigation system; or even accelerating and / or stopping. In an improvement, short vibration confirmations or intermittent vibration shock waves (blast of vibrations) are used to communicate with the occupant in a tactile manner by vibrating the outer surface of the capsule 100 of the capsule assembly. Typically, the haptic response is in response to receiving a user input instructing to control the vehicle in some manner.

[0033] In yet another embodiment, the controller 20 provides tactile communication (e.g., tactile feedback regarding the operation of the seat / vehicle, the status of the seat / vehicle, or the external stimulus) via the vibration motor 102 in response to the environment, such as the environment of the vehicle (e.g., external stimuli of the vehicle). In other words, tactile feedback is also provided in response to one or more inputs indicating conditions external to the vehicle. For example, tactile feedback is provided to the occupant to signal a lane change or a lane change-like maneuver (e.g., a lane change alert) and / or to signal that there is an object (such as another vehicle) in the blind spot (e.g., a blind spot alert). In yet another example, the vibration motor 102 is operated by the vehicle when the vehicle approaches an object, such as when backing up.

[0034] In various embodiments, the haptic operation of the vibration motor 102 is different from the massaging operation of the vibration motor 102. For example, when massaging, the vibration motor 102 is operated continuously or for a longer period of time (e.g., greater than 10 seconds, at least 30 seconds, at least 1 minute), while the haptic operation is a short burst (e.g., 10 seconds or less, less than 5 seconds, or even less than 1 second)) or a short intermittent burst (e.g., 3 bursts, 5 bursts, or 10 bursts). Additionally or alternatively, different severities or levels of operation may be applied to provide haptic feedback. For example, when a vehicle approaches an object, a higher severity may be applied to alert the driver and avoid an accident, while a lower severity is used to signal less important matters / operations (such as volume changes). In yet other embodiments, different haptic operations are used to signal the receipt of different inputs. For example, if the occupant turns up the volume, a short half-second soft (e.g., less than 40% of maximum) shock is provided, and if the user guides the vehicle into an object (e.g., backing into a parked car), a 10-second vigorous (e.g., greater than 60% of maximum) vibration is used. In yet another example, if a lane change is detected, a three-second vigorous shock is provided, and / or if an object is detected in the blind spot of the vehicle, three short 1-second medium (e.g., 30% to 70%) shocks are provided that are different from the soft shock and the vigorous shock. In yet another example, the vibration signal can be provided during acceleration, and the vibration signal can even correspond to acceleration, such that a vigorous vibration effect is provided when the occupant presses the accelerator pedal hard, and a soft vibration effect is provided if the occupant presses the accelerator pedal gently.

[0035] In this way, the vibration motor 102 provides massage effects and operational information to the outermost surface of the outermost chamber of the bladder 100 and the occupant when seated. In many embodiments, the vibration motor 102 is dual-functional and can reduce the need for duplicate components, thereby reducing cost and weight.

[0036] refer to Figure 5 , shows a seat assembly 10 according to an example embodiment. In various embodiments, the seat assembly 10 includes a trim cover 15 disposed above a cushion assembly 16, which is supported by a frame 35. In one example, the trim cover 15 includes a protective or decorative covering for a seat component and is constructed of a material such as leather, PVC, PU, ​​textile, etc. In this example, one side of the seat assembly 10 is shown with the seat cover / trim cover and foam pad removed to expose the components underneath.

[0037] In a variation, the seat assembly 10 includes a seat back 17 and a seat bottom 19 that cooperates with the seat back 17. The seat bottom 19 can be adapted to be mounted for motor-driven adjustable translation in the fore-aft and up-and-down directions of the vehicle. The seat back 17 can be pivotally connected to the seat bottom 19 to extend generally upright relative to the seat bottom 19 for pivotal adjustment relative to the seat bottom 19. A headrest 23 can also be mounted to the seat back 17.

[0038] In an embodiment, the seat bottom 19 may include a central seating surface 27 and a seating surface along a pair of side padding areas 29 (only one side padding area is shown) that are laterally spaced relative to the central seating surface 27. In an embodiment, the seat back 17 may include a pelvic / lumbar seating surface 31 having a pair of laterally spaced side padding areas 33 (only one side padding area is shown) on either side. A sternum / shoulder seating surface 36 may also be disposed above the pelvic / lumbar seating surface 31 and the seating surface of the seat back side padding areas 33. It should be understood that this is only one example of a seating configuration and other configurations may also be utilized.

[0039] In one or more embodiments, the seat assembly 10 includes one or more subassemblies, such as a massage assembly 25 and / or a ventilation assembly 30. Many other subassemblies may also be included, such as, but not limited to, a temperature control assembly 21. In various embodiments, one or more vibration motors 102 ( Figures 1 to 4 ) are disposed at the apex of the plurality of bladders 100 of the massage assembly 25 so that the bladders 100 apply a vibrating effect to the trim cover 15 that can be felt by the seated occupant. In an improved embodiment, the frame 35 is made of a rigid material sufficient to support the various subassemblies of the seat and the seated occupant. For example, the frame 35 is composed of metal (e.g., steel or aluminum), plastic, and / or wood.

[0040] In an embodiment, the seat bottom 19 may include one or more bladders 100 located below the central seating surface 27 and in the pelvic / lumbar seating area of ​​the seat back 17. The seat bottom 19 may also include bladders 100 in the side cushion areas 29. Likewise, the seat back 17 may also include bladders 100 in the side cushion areas 33. In an embodiment, each bladder may be supported on the frame 35 of the corresponding seat bottom 19 and seat back 17. In an embodiment, the bladders in the side cushion areas 29, 33 provide lateral support to the seated occupant when the vehicle undergoes turns or curves, while the bladders 100 in other areas of the seat bottom 19 and seat back 17 may be used for lumbar support (lumbar) or massage purposes.

[0041] In an embodiment, the seat assembly 10 also includes an actuator assembly 37 for controlling the inflation of the bladder 100. The actuator assembly 37 may include a fluid supply 39 (e.g., a displacement device for supplying pressurized fluid, such as a pump, compressor, fan, and / or blower) connected to a valve bank 41 to provide a source of fluid to the bladder 100 of the massage assembly 25, such as Figure 5 The seat control module is provided in the seat bottom 19 or the seat back 17 and is generally identified as including one or more controllers 20. In one example, the controller 20 regulates the compressed air entering and leaving the bladder 100. The controller 20 and actuator 37 can be mounted in the seat back 17, under the seat 10, or anywhere else suitable in the vehicle.

[0042] In various embodiments, one or more controllers 20 are programmed to operate in multiple modes, such as a first (e.g., haptic) mode and a different second (e.g., massage) mode. In the haptic mode, the controller 20 receives input indicating a vehicle operation (e.g., rolling down a window, changing a radio station, moving a seat, depressing an accelerator pedal, lane change, approaching an object in front of the vehicle, blind spot alert, etc.), and in response to receiving the operation input, activates the vibration motor for a short predetermined duration (e.g., less than 10 seconds, or more preferably less than 5 seconds, or even more preferably less than 3 seconds). In the massage mode, the controller 20 receives a different operation input (e.g., turning on a vibration massage function), and in response to receiving a second operation input, activates the vibration motor continuously or for a longer predetermined period of time (e.g., continuously for more than 5 seconds, or more preferably continuously for more than 10 seconds, or even more preferably for more than one minute, or even more preferably for more than 5 minutes). For example, the operation of the vibration motor may be automatically terminated in the first operating (tactile) mode without receiving additional operating input, while the operation of the vibration motor may not be terminated within the specified duration in the second operating (massage) mode without additional operating input (such as receiving a request from the occupant to terminate the vibration massage early (e.g., pressing an off button)).

[0043] In one or more embodiments, the controller 20 includes a processor having one or more devices selected from a high-performance computing system, the one or more devices including a high-performance core, a microprocessor, a microcontroller, a digital signal processor, a microcomputer, a central processing unit, a field programmable gate array, a programmable logic device, a state machine, a logic circuit, an analog circuit, a digital circuit, or any other device that manipulates signals (analog or digital) based on computer executable instructions residing in a memory (such as in a controller). In a variant, the memory includes a single memory device or multiple memory devices, including but not limited to random access memory (RAM), volatile memory, non-volatile memory, static random access memory (SRAM), dynamic random access memory (DRAM), flash memory, cache memory, or any other device capable of storing information. In an improved embodiment, the non-volatile memory / storage device includes one or more persistent data storage devices, such as a hard drive, an optical drive, a tape drive, a non-volatile solid-state device, a cloud storage, or any other device capable of persistently storing information.

[0044] In one or more embodiments, executable code / instructions may reside in a software module. In an improved scheme, the software module includes an operating system and an application program. In various embodiments, the software module is compiled or interpreted by a computer program created using various programming languages ​​and / or techniques, including but not limited to the following items alone or in combination: Java, C, C++, C#, Objective C, Fortran, Pascal, Java Script, Python, Perl, and PL / SQL. Non-volatile memory may also include data that supports functions, features, calculations, and processes.

[0045] In some embodiments, the above system includes a computer-readable storage medium (which is non-transitory in nature), and in various refinements includes volatile or non-volatile and removable and non-removable tangible media implemented in any method or technology for storing information, such as computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules or other data. In variants, the computer-readable storage medium also includes RAM, ROM, erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), flash memory or other solid-state memory technology, portable compact disk read-only memory (CD-ROM) or other optical storage, cassettes, magnetic tapes, disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium that can be used to store the desired information and can be read by a computer. In various embodiments, the computer-readable program instructions can be downloaded to a computer, another type of programmable data processing device or another device form of a computer-readable storage medium via a network, or downloaded to an external computer or external storage device.

[0046] In one or more embodiments, the computer-readable program instructions stored in the computer-readable medium can be used to instruct a computer, other types of programmable data processing devices, or other devices to operate in a specific manner, so that the instructions stored in the computer-readable medium produce an article of manufacture including instructions for implementing the functions, actions, and / or operations described herein. The functions, actions, and / or operations described herein can be reordered, processed serially, and / or processed concurrently.

[0047] In an embodiment, the massage assembly 25 is comprised of a plurality of sheets 110, 112, 114 that form one or more fluid chambers 108. In one example, the plurality of sheets may be comprised of a thin, flexible, fluid-impermeable material (e.g., a plastic material such as polyurethane or polyethylene). Figure 1 As shown, the sheets 110, 112, 114 can cooperate with each other to form a plurality of fluid chambers 108, which include separate compartments designed to hold a fluid substance. The fluid chambers 108 can be in fluid communication with a fluid supply channel 120, which includes a conduit connecting the fluid chambers 108 to a fluid supplier 39. In an embodiment, a vibration motor 102 (e.g., a haptic motor) is associated with one or more of the fluid chambers 108. Examples of haptic motors include eccentric rotating mass actuators (ERMs), linear resonant actuators (LRAs), and piezoelectric actuators.

[0048] In an embodiment, one or more fluid chambers 108 constitute one or more fluid bladders 100, wherein at least one fluid bladder 100 directly supports (eg, directly contacts) a vibration motor 102. In one example, the bladder 100 includes a pneumatic unit.

[0049] In an embodiment, the fluid bladder 100 includes a container 104 that receives the vibration motor 102. In one example, the container 104 includes a pocket or a recessed area within the bladder 100.

[0050] In an embodiment, the fluid bladder 100 extends from a base end 130 within the seat structure (e.g., frame 35, seat back 17, seat bottom 19) to an apex end 106 adjacent to the trim cover 15. In one example, the apex end 106 is distal to the base end 130, and the vibration motor 102 is positioned at the apex end 106.

[0051] In an embodiment, each fluid bladder 100 in an associated massage assembly 25 includes at least one vibration motor 102 .

[0052] In an embodiment, each fluid bladder 100 has a plurality of fluid chambers 108. In one example, each fluid bladder 100 having a plurality of fluid chambers 108 has only one vibration motor 102. In one example, each fluid bladder 100 having a plurality of fluid chambers 108 has more than one vibration motor 102.

[0053] In an embodiment, the fluid supply channel 120 is in fluid communication with the fluid supplier 39 and the valve block 41 to supply fluid to the fluid bladder 100. In one example, the fluid supply channel 120 is positioned at the base end 130 and opposite the motor 102.

[0054] In an embodiment, the bladder 100 includes at least a first fluid chamber 108 and a second fluid chamber 108, wherein at least one port 116 (e.g., hole, opening, connecting channel) is formed in one of the plurality of impermeable sheets 110, 112, 114, the at least one port 116 fluidly connecting the first fluid chamber and the second fluid chamber together.

[0055] In an embodiment, one or more controllers 20 control / operate the vibration motor 102 such that the vibration motor 102 responds to one or more of the following inputs from the one or more controllers 20: a massage request; vehicle input from a vehicle control system (e.g., seat adjustment, changing instrument panel and / or control panel settings, accelerating / decelerating / stopping vehicle performance, etc.); user input from a user indicating control of one or more aspects of vehicle performance (e.g., seat adjustment, temperature adjustment, volume control, etc.); external input indicating external conditions of the vehicle (e.g., lane changes, blind spots, objects on the road, etc.).

[0056] In one example, one or more controllers 20 are responsive to all or any combination of the following inputs: a massage request; a vehicle input from a vehicle control system; a user input from a user indicating control of one or more aspects of vehicle performance; an external input indicating a condition external to the vehicle.

[0057] In an embodiment, the vibration motor 102: operates under a first condition in response to a massage request; and operates under a second condition in response to a vehicle input, a user input, or an external input, wherein the second condition is different from the first condition. Examples of the first condition and the second condition may include: variable time, such as the length / duration of activation; variable intensity, such as increasing / decreasing vibration output; or a combination of variable time and variable intensity.

[0058] In an embodiment, the one or more controllers 20 may operate the vibration motor 102 based on the vehicle operation information. For example, the vibration motor 102 may operate in a first mode (e.g., variable time and / or variable intensity) for a first vehicle operation characteristic, and in a second mode (e.g., variable time and / or variable intensity) different from the first mode for a second vehicle operation characteristic.

[0059] In one example, the first mode may operate for a first amount of time and the second mode may operate for a second amount of time, the second amount of time being less than the first amount of time.

[0060] In one example, the first mode may operate at a first intensity level (eg, an increasing / decreasing vibration effect), and the second mode may operate at a second intensity level that is less than the first intensity level.

[0061] In an embodiment, a vibration effect (eg, a resonant tactile input) from the vibration motor is transmitted to the trim cover 15 .

[0062] In one example, varying pressurization (eg, inflation / deflation) of the bladder 100 and variable vibration output from the vibration motor 102 constitute tactile input to the trim cover 15 .

[0063] In an embodiment, a method is disclosed in which tactile feedback is provided to a seat occupant by using a vibration motor 102 associated with a bladder 100. In one example, the method includes: forming one or more fluid chambers using a plurality of fluid impermeable sheets; connecting the one or more fluid chambers to a fluid supply channel; and providing tactile feedback using a vibration motor associated with the one or more fluid chambers.

[0064] The method may also include associating one or more fluid bladders with a seat assembly having a trim cover disposed over the frame, the one or more fluid bladders, and the vibration motor; and directly supporting the vibration motor at an apex end of the one or more fluid bladders adjacent the trim cover.

[0065] The method may also include operating the vibration motor in response to a plurality of different inputs; operating the vibration motor in at least a first mode in response to one of the plurality of different inputs; and operating the vibration motor in at least a second mode different from the first mode in response to a different one of the plurality of different inputs.

[0066] Although exemplary embodiments are described above, this does not mean that these embodiments describe all possible forms of the present invention. Rather, the words used in this specification are descriptive and non-restrictive, and it should be understood that multiple changes can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. In addition, the features of the embodiments of the various implementations can be combined to form other embodiments of the present invention.

[0067] According to one aspect, an assembly includes: a plurality of fluid-impermeable sheets that cooperate with each other to form one or more fluid chambers, wherein the one or more fluid chambers are in fluid communication with a fluid supply channel; and a vibration motor associated with the one or more fluid chambers.

[0068] According to one example of any of the preceding or subsequent assemblies, the one or more fluid chambers constitute one or more fluid bladders, and wherein at least one fluid bladder directly supports the vibration motor.

[0069] According to one example of any of the preceding or subsequent assemblies, the at least one fluid bladder includes a container to receive the vibration motor.

[0070] According to one example of any of the preceding or subsequent assemblies, the at least one fluid bladder extends from a base end within the seat structure to an apex end adjacent a trim associated with the seat structure, and wherein the vibration motor is positioned at the apex end.

[0071] According to one example of any of the preceding or subsequent assemblies, the fluid supply channel is associated with a fluid supply fluid and is in fluid communication with the at least one fluid bladder, and wherein the fluid supply channel is positioned at the base end.

[0072] According to one example of any of the previous or subsequent assemblies, one or more fluid chambers include at least a first fluid chamber and a second fluid chamber, and include at least one port formed in one of the plurality of impermeable sheets, the at least one port fluidly connecting the first fluid chamber to the second fluid chamber.

[0073] According to an example of any of the previous components or subsequent components, one or more controllers operate the vibration motor so that the vibration motor responds to one or more of the following inputs to the one or more controllers: a massage request; a vehicle input from a vehicle control system; a user input from a user indicating control of one or more aspects of vehicle performance; an external input indicating an external condition of the vehicle.

[0074] According to one example of any of the preceding or subsequent components, one or more controllers operate the vibration motor so that the vibration motor responds to each of the following inputs to the one or more controllers: a massage request; a vehicle input from a vehicle control system; a user input from a user indicating control of one or more aspects of vehicle performance; and an external input indicating an external condition of the vehicle.

[0075] According to an example of any of the previous components or subsequent components, the vibration motor: operates under a first condition in response to the massage request; and operates under a second condition in response to the vehicle input, the user input, or the external input, wherein the second condition is different from the first condition.

[0076] According to one example of any of the previous or subsequent components, one or more controllers operate the vibration motor based on vehicle operating information, and wherein the vibration motor operates in a first mode for a first vehicle operating characteristic, and operates in a second mode different from the first mode for a second vehicle operating characteristic.

[0077] According to one example of any of the preceding or subsequent components, the first mode is operable for a first amount of time, and the second mode is operable for a second amount of time, the second amount of time being less than the first amount of time.

[0078] According to one example of any of the preceding or subsequent components, the first mode is operable at a first intensity level, and the second mode is operable at a second intensity level less than the first intensity level.

[0079] According to an example of any of the previous or subsequent components, the one or more fluid chambers constitute one or more fluid bladders associated with a seat component, which includes: a frame; one or more fluid bladders supported by the frame; and a decorative cover, which is arranged above the frame, the one or more fluid bladders and the vibration motor, and wherein the vibration effect from the vibration motor is transmitted to the decorative cover.

[0080] According to one example, a component includes: a seat structure; at least one fluid bladder, the at least one fluid bladder including one or more fluid chambers connected to the fluid supply channel; at least one vibration motor, the at least one vibration motor associated with the one or more fluid chambers; and a decorative cover, the decorative cover is disposed above the seat structure, the at least one fluid bladder and the at least one vibration motor, and wherein a changing pressure of the at least one fluid bladder and a variable vibration output from the at least one vibration motor constitute a tactile input to the decorative cover.

[0081] According to one example of any of the preceding or subsequent components, one or more controllers operate the vibration motor so that the vibration motor responds to each of the following inputs to the one or more controllers: a massage request; a vehicle input from a vehicle control system; a user input from a user indicating control of one or more aspects of vehicle performance; and an external input indicating an external condition of the vehicle.

[0082] According to one example of any of the previous or subsequent components, one or more controllers operate the vibration motor based on vehicle operating information, wherein the vibration motor operates in a first mode for a first vehicle operating characteristic and operates in a second mode different from the first mode for a second vehicle operating characteristic.

[0083] According to one example of any of the preceding or subsequent assemblies, the at least one fluid bladder extends from a base end within the seat structure to an apex end adjacent the trim cover, and wherein the at least one fluid bladder directly supports the vibration motor at the apex end.

[0084] According to one example, a method includes forming one or more fluid chambers using a plurality of fluid-impermeable sheets; connecting the one or more fluid chambers to a fluid supply channel; and providing tactile feedback using a vibration motor associated with the one or more fluid chambers.

[0085] According to an example of any of the previous methods or subsequent methods, the one or more fluid chambers constitute one or more fluid bladders, and the method includes: associating the one or more fluid bladders with a seat assembly, the seat assembly including: a frame; one or more fluid bladders supported by the frame; and a decorative cover disposed above the frame, the one or more fluid bladders and the vibration motor; and directly supporting the vibration motor at the vertex end of the one or more fluid bladders adjacent to the decorative cover.

[0086] According to an example of any of the previous methods or subsequent methods, the method includes: operating the vibration motor in response to multiple different inputs; operating the vibration motor in at least a first mode in response to one of the multiple different inputs; and operating the vibration motor in at least a second mode different from the first mode in response to a different input of the multiple different inputs.

[0087] According to one example, an assembly includes a first fluid impermeable sheet, a second fluid impermeable sheet cooperating with the first fluid impermeable sheet to define a first fluid chamber, a fluid channel in fluid communication with the first fluid chamber, and a vibration motor disposed adjacent the first fluid chamber.

[0088] According to one example of any of the previous or subsequent assemblies, the vibration motor cooperates with the first fluid-impermeable sheet or the second fluid-impermeable sheet.

[0089] According to one example of any of the preceding or subsequent assemblies, the third fluid-impermeable sheet cooperates with the second fluid-impermeable sheet to at least partially surround the vibration motor.

[0090] According to one example of any of the preceding or subsequent assemblies, the fourth fluid impermeable sheet cooperates with the first fluid impermeable sheet opposite the second fluid impermeable sheet to define a second fluid chamber in fluid communication with the first fluid chamber.

[0091] According to one example of any of the preceding or subsequent assemblies, the first fluid impermeable sheet includes a port for fluid communication between the first fluid chamber and the second fluid chamber.

[0092] According to one example of any of the previous or subsequent assemblies, when the first fluid chamber is filled with fluid, the vibration motor is arranged at a vertex of the first fluid chamber.

[0093] According to one example of any of the previous or subsequent assemblies, the vibration motor is arranged opposite to the fluid channel.

[0094] According to one example of any of the preceding or subsequent assemblies, the vibration motor is operated in response to one or more operational controls of the vehicle.

[0095] According to one example of any of the preceding or subsequent assemblies, the vibration motor is operated in response to one or more inputs indicative of external conditions of the vehicle.

[0096] According to one example of any of the previous or subsequent assemblies, the vibration motor delivers operational information to the first fluid chamber.

[0097] According to one example of any one of the preceding components or the subsequent components, the operation information indicates operation information of a vehicle.

[0098] According to an example of any of the previous components or subsequent components, a seat assembly includes a frame, a component of any of the previous items or subsequent items supported by the frame, and a decorative cover arranged above the component of any of the previous items or subsequent items, so that a pressurization effect of the component of any of the previous items or subsequent items and a vibration effect of the vibration motor are applied to the decorative cover.

[0099] According to one example of any of the previous or subsequent assemblies, a seat assembly includes a seat frame supporting a massage assembly and a control system. The massage assembly includes a plurality of fluid bladders in fluid communication with a fluid actuator to receive fluid, a vibration motor cooperating with one or more of the bladders, and a trim cover disposed over the seat frame, the massage assembly, and the vibration motor. The control system is programmed to operate the vibration motor so that the vibration motor vibrates the trim cover in response to the operating information.

[0100] According to one example of any of the preceding or subsequent components, the operational information includes one or more control inputs received from an occupant.

[0101] According to one example of any of the preceding or subsequent assemblies, the one or more control inputs are seat adjustment requests.

[0102] According to one example of any of the preceding or subsequent components, the operational information includes an indication of a state of an external environment of the vehicle.

[0103] According to one example of any of the previous or subsequent assemblies, a vibration motor is disposed on at least one of the one or more bladders.

[0104] According to one example of any of the previous or subsequent assemblies, the vibration motor is disposed in a container on one of the plurality of fluid bladders.

[0105] According to one example of any of the previous or subsequent assemblies, the assembly includes a massage assembly and a controller. The massage assembly includes a bladder assembly and a vibration motor. The controller communicates with the vibration motor and is programmed to operate in a first operating mode and a second operating mode. In the first operating mode, the controller receives a first operating input, and in response to the first operating input, activates the vibration motor for a predetermined duration of no more than 10 consecutive seconds. In the second operating mode, the controller receives a second operating input different from the first operating input, and in response to the second operating input, activates the vibration motor for more than 10 consecutive seconds.

[0106] According to one example of any of the preceding component or the subsequent component, the predetermined duration of any preceding clause is less than five consecutive seconds.

[0107] Although different examples have specific components shown in the drawings, the embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited to those specific combinations. Some components or features in one example may be used in combination with features or components in another example.

[0108] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the above embodiments are exemplary and non-limiting. That is, modifications to the present disclosure will be within the scope of the claims. Therefore, the attached claims should be studied to determine the true scope and content of the attached claims.

Claims

1. A component comprising: a plurality of fluid-impermeable sheets that cooperate with each other to form one or more fluid chambers, wherein the one or more fluid chambers are in fluid communication with a fluid supply channel; and A vibration motor is associated with the one or more fluid chambers.

2. The assembly according to claim 1, wherein The one or more fluid chambers form one or more fluid bladders, and at least one of the fluid bladders directly supports the vibration motor.

3. The assembly according to claim 2, wherein: The at least one fluid bladder includes a container for receiving the vibration motor.

4. The assembly according to claim 2, wherein: The at least one fluid bladder extends from a base end within the seat structure to an apex end adjacent a trim piece associated with the seat structure, and wherein the vibration motor is positioned at the apex end.

5. The assembly according to claim 4, wherein: The fluid supply channel is associated with a fluid supply liquid and is in fluid communication with the at least one fluid bladder, and wherein the fluid supply channel is positioned at the base end.

6. The assembly according to claim 2, wherein: The one or more fluid chambers include at least a first fluid chamber and a second fluid chamber and include at least one port formed in one of the plurality of impermeable sheets, the at least one port fluidly connecting the first fluid chamber to the second fluid chamber.

7. The assembly of claim 1 , comprising one or more controllers that operate the vibration motor such that the vibration motor is responsive to one or more of the following inputs to the one or more controllers: Massage request; vehicle inputs from vehicle control systems; user input from a user indicative of controlling one or more aspects of vehicle performance; External input indicating conditions external to the vehicle.

8. The assembly of claim 1 , comprising one or more controllers that operate the vibration motor such that the vibration motor is responsive to each of the following inputs to the one or more controllers: Massage request; vehicle inputs from vehicle control systems; user input from a user indicative of controlling one or more aspects of vehicle performance; and External input indicating conditions external to the vehicle.

9. The assembly according to claim 8, wherein: The vibration motor: operating under a first condition in response to the massage request; and The method operates under a second condition in response to the vehicle input, the user input, or the external input, wherein the second condition is different from the first condition.

10. The assembly of claim 1 , comprising one or more controllers that operate the vibration motor based on vehicle operating information, and wherein the vibration motor operates in a first mode for a first vehicle operating characteristic and in a second mode different from the first mode for a second vehicle operating characteristic.

11. The assembly according to claim 10, wherein The first mode is operable for a first amount of time, and the second mode is operable for a second amount of time, the second amount of time being less than the first amount of time.

12. The assembly according to claim 10, wherein: The first mode is operable at a first intensity level, and the second mode is operable at a second intensity level less than the first intensity level.

13. The assembly of claim 1, wherein: The one or more fluid chambers constitute one or more fluid bladders associated with a seat assembly, the seat assembly comprising: frame; one or more fluid bladders supported by the frame; and A trim cover is disposed over the frame, the one or more fluid bladders, and the vibration motor, and wherein a vibration effect from the vibration motor is transferred to the trim cover.

14. A component comprising: Seat structure; at least one fluid bladder comprising one or more fluid chambers in fluid communication with the fluid supply channel; at least one vibration motor associated with the one or more fluid chambers; as well as A trim cover is disposed over the seat structure, the at least one fluid bladder, and the at least one vibration motor, and wherein a varying pressure of the at least one fluid bladder and a variable vibration output from the at least one vibration motor constitute a tactile input to the trim cover.

15. The assembly of claim 14, comprising one or more controllers that operate the vibration motor such that the vibration motor is responsive to each of the following inputs to the one or more controllers: Massage request; vehicle inputs from vehicle control systems; user input from a user indicative of controlling one or more aspects of vehicle performance; and External input indicating conditions external to the vehicle.

16. The assembly of claim 14, comprising one or more controllers that operate the vibration motor based on vehicle operating information, wherein: The vibration motor operates in a first mode for a first vehicle operating characteristic and operates in a second mode different from the first mode for a second vehicle operating characteristic.

17. The assembly of claim 14, wherein: The at least one fluid bladder extends from a base end within the seat structure to an apex end adjacent the trim cover, and wherein the at least one fluid bladder directly supports the vibration motor at the apex end.

18. A method comprising: forming one or more fluid chambers using a plurality of fluid impermeable sheets; connecting the one or more fluid chambers to a fluid supply channel; as well as Tactile feedback is provided using a vibration motor associated with the one or more fluid chambers.

19. The method according to claim 18, wherein: The one or more fluid chambers constitute one or more fluid bladders, and The method comprises: Associating the one or more fluid bladders with a seat assembly, the seat assembly comprising: frame; one or more fluid bladders supported by the frame; and a decorative cover disposed over the frame, the one or more fluid bladders, and the vibration motor; and The vibration motor is supported directly at an apex end of the one or more fluid bladders adjacent the trim cover.

20. The method according to claim 18, comprising: operating the vibration motor in response to a plurality of different inputs; operating the vibration motor in at least a first mode in response to one of the plurality of different inputs; as well as In response to a different one of the plurality of different inputs, the vibration motor is operated in at least a second mode different from the first mode.

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