Vehicle seat and manufacturing method thereof

Abstract

[Task] To provide a vehicle seat that allows a vibrator and an airbag mounted in the vehicle seat to sufficiently perform their respective functions. A vehicle seat 1 includes a seat cushion 3 and a seat back 4 extending upward from a rear portion of the seat cushion. The seat back includes a frame 21 forming a skeleton structure, a cushion 22 supported by the frame, a skin material 23 covering the cushion, and a plurality of airbags 71 and a plurality of vibrators 72 provided on the cushion. The plurality of vibrators and the plurality of airbags are placed so as not to overlap each other.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to a vehicle seat. Background Art

[0002] Patent document 1 discloses a vehicle seat provided with a plurality of vibrators. The vibrators are controlled to vibrate based on route guidance information. As a result, a driver seated in the vehicle seat can recognize the route guidance information based on the vibration caused by the vibrators. Patent document 1 also discloses another vehicle seat equipped with a plurality of airbags that can expand by receiving a supply of compressed air. The occupants seated in the vehicle seat are massaged by the expansion and contraction of the airbags. Prior art literature Patent Literature

[0003] Patent Document 1: JP2021-123159A Summary of the invention The task to be accomplished by the present invention

[0004] When the vibrator and the airbag are arranged on a common seat, there is a risk that the vibrator and the airbag may interfere with each other adversely. For example, there is a risk that the vibration of the vibrator may be absorbed by the airbag, thereby preventing the vibration from being transmitted to the seated person.

[0005] In view of the above background, a main task of the present invention is to provide a vehicle seat which allows a vibrator and an airbag installed in the vehicle seat to fully perform their respective functions. Means of accomplishing the task

[0006] In order to accomplish this task, one aspect of the present invention provides a vehicle seat (1), which includes a seat cushion (3) and a seat back (4) extending upward from the rear of the seat cushion, the seat back including a frame (21) forming a skeleton structure, a cushion (22) supported by the frame, a skin material (23) covering the cushion, and a plurality of airbags (71) and a plurality of vibrators (72) arranged on the cushion, wherein the cushion includes a lateral central portion (22A) and a pair of side support portions (22B) protruding forward from both side ends of the central portion, and wherein some of the plurality of vibrators and some of the plurality of airbags are placed on the front surfaces of the left and right side support portions so that the plurality of airbags are vertically displaced from the plurality of vibrators.

[0007] According to this aspect, some vibrators and some airbags are placed in each side support portion. Since the vibrators and the airbags are spaced apart from each other in each side support portion, the vibrators and the airbags can fully perform their respective functions in the vehicle seat.

[0008] In the above aspect, preferably, an electronic control device (81) that controls the plurality of vibrators is disposed behind a lower end portion of at least one of the left and right side support portions.

[0009] According to this aspect, the electronic control device is arranged away from the back of the seated occupant, so that the electronic control device is prevented from abutting against the back of the seated occupant.

[0010] In the above aspect, preferably, a plurality of sensors (601) are arranged between the front surface of the pad and the skin material, the front surfaces of the left and right side support parts are each provided with at least one of the plurality of sensors, and the plurality of vibrators, the plurality of airbags and the plurality of sensors are vertically spaced apart from each other.

[0011] According to this aspect, each sensor is made less susceptible to the influence of a vibrator and an air bag, so that the detection capability of the sensor is prevented from being impaired.

[0012] In the above aspect, preferably, a headrest (5) is provided at an upper end of the seat back, and at least one of the plurality of vibrators, at least one of the plurality of airbags, and at least one of the plurality of sensors are provided in a front portion of the headrest.

[0013] According to this aspect, the functionality of the headrest can be improved.

[0014] In the above aspect, preferably, the skin material is fixed to the front surface of the cushion through a plurality of joints (53), and the plurality of sensors are arranged adjacent to the plurality of joints.

[0015] According to this aspect, it is possible to prevent the detection accuracy of the sensor from being reduced. Since the portion of the skin material adjacent to the engaging portion is restricted from moving by the engaging portion, the movement of the skin material is prevented from adversely affecting the sensor.

[0016] In the above aspect, preferably, the pad is provided on its front surface with a plurality of locking grooves (52) for pulling the skin material therein, the plurality of engaging parts are arranged in the plurality of locking grooves, and the plurality of sensors are arranged along at least one of the plurality of locking grooves.

[0017] According to this aspect, the detection accuracy of the sensor is prevented from being impaired. Since the portion of the skin material adjacent to the locking groove is restricted from moving by the engaging portion, the movement of the skin material is prevented from adversely affecting the sensor.

[0018] In the above aspect, preferably, the multiple locking grooves include a plurality of longitudinal locking grooves (52A) extending in a vertical direction and a plurality of transverse locking grooves (52B) extending in a horizontal direction, and at least some of the multiple sensors are arranged adjacent to the intersection (52C) ​​of the plurality of longitudinal locking grooves and the plurality of transverse locking grooves.

[0019] According to this aspect, it is possible to prevent the detection accuracy of the sensor from being impaired. Since the movement of the skin material is restricted by the joint in the region adjacent thereto, the movement of the skin material is prevented from adversely affecting the sensor.

[0020] In the above aspect, preferably, the sensor, the airbag, and the vibrator are arranged in this order from the top along one of the plurality of longitudinal locking grooves below one of the plurality of lateral locking grooves.

[0021] According to this aspect, the sensor, the airbag, and the vibrator can be efficiently arranged.

[0022] In the above aspect, preferably, each of the plurality of air bags is formed in a ring shape and provided with a center hole (71B), and the corresponding vibrator is located in the center hole.

[0023] According to this aspect, each airbag and the corresponding vibrator can be compactly arranged without interfering with each other.

[0024] Another aspect of the present invention provides a method for manufacturing a vehicle seat (1) having a seat cushion (3) and a seat back (4), the method comprising the following steps: supporting a cushion (22) on a frame (21) of the seat back; placing a plurality of airbags (71) and a plurality of vibrators (72) on a front surface of the cushion so that the plurality of vibrators and the plurality of airbags do not overlap with each other when viewed from the front; and covering the cushion with a skin material (23).

[0025] According to this aspect, the vehicle seat can be manufactured in such a manner that the vibrator and the airbag can appropriately perform their respective functions. Effects of the Invention

[0026] In order to accomplish this task, one aspect of the present invention provides a vehicle seat (1), which includes a seat cushion (3) and a seat back (4) extending upward from the rear of the seat cushion, the seat back including a frame (21) forming a skeleton structure, a cushion (22) supported by the frame, a skin material (23) covering the cushion, and a plurality of airbags (71) and a plurality of vibrators (72) arranged on the cushion, wherein the cushion includes a lateral central portion (22A) and a pair of side support portions (22B) protruding forward from both side ends of the central portion, and wherein some of the plurality of vibrators and some of the plurality of airbags are placed on the front surfaces of the left and right side support portions so that the plurality of airbags are vertically displaced from the plurality of vibrators.

[0027] According to this aspect, some vibrators and some airbags are placed in each side support portion. Since the vibrators and the airbags are spaced apart from each other in each side support portion, the vibrators and the airbags can fully perform their respective functions in the vehicle seat.

[0028] In the above aspect, preferably, an electronic control device (81) that controls the plurality of vibrators is disposed behind a lower end portion of at least one of the left and right side support portions.

[0029] According to this aspect, the electronic control device is arranged away from the back of the seated occupant, so that the electronic control device is prevented from abutting against the back of the seated occupant.

[0030] In the above aspect, preferably, a plurality of sensors (601) are arranged between the front surface of the pad and the skin material, the front surfaces of the left and right side support parts are each provided with at least one of the plurality of sensors, and the vibrator, the airbag and the sensor are vertically spaced apart from each other.

[0031] According to this aspect, each sensor is made less susceptible to the influence of a vibrator and an air bag, so that the detection capability of the sensor is prevented from being impaired.

[0032] In the above aspect, preferably, a headrest (5) is provided at an upper end of the seat back, and at least one of the plurality of vibrators, at least one of the plurality of airbags, and at least one of the plurality of sensors are provided in a front portion of the headrest.

[0033] According to this aspect, the functionality of the headrest can be improved.

[0034] In the above aspect, preferably, the skin material is fixed to the front surface of the cushion through a plurality of joints (53), and the plurality of sensors are arranged adjacent to the plurality of joints.

[0035] According to this aspect, it is possible to prevent the detection accuracy of the sensor from being reduced. Since the portion of the skin material adjacent to the engaging portion is restricted from moving by the engaging portion, the movement of the skin material is prevented from adversely affecting the sensor.

[0036] In the above aspect, preferably, the pad is provided on its front surface with a plurality of locking grooves (52) for pulling the skin material therein, the plurality of engaging parts are arranged in the plurality of locking grooves, and the plurality of sensors are arranged along at least one of the plurality of locking grooves.

[0037] According to this aspect, the detection accuracy of the sensor is prevented from being impaired. Since the portion of the skin material adjacent to the locking groove is restricted from moving by the engaging portion, the movement of the skin material is prevented from adversely affecting the sensor.

[0038] In the above aspect, preferably, the multiple locking grooves include a plurality of longitudinal locking grooves (52A) extending in a vertical direction and a plurality of transverse locking grooves (52B) extending in a horizontal direction, and at least some of the multiple sensors are arranged adjacent to the intersection (52C) ​​of the plurality of longitudinal locking grooves and the plurality of transverse locking grooves.

[0039] According to this aspect, it is possible to prevent the detection accuracy of the sensor from being impaired. Since the movement of the skin material is restricted by the joint in the region adjacent thereto, the movement of the skin material is prevented from adversely affecting the sensor.

[0040] In the above aspect, preferably, the sensor, the airbag, and the vibrator are arranged in this order from the top along one of the plurality of longitudinal locking grooves below one of the plurality of lateral locking grooves.

[0041] According to this aspect, the sensor, the airbag, and the vibrator can be efficiently arranged.

[0042] In the above aspect, preferably, the plurality of airbags are each formed in an annular shape and provided with a central hole (71B), and the corresponding vibrator is located in the central hole.

[0043] According to this aspect, each airbag and the corresponding vibrator can be compactly arranged without interfering with each other.

[0044] Another aspect of the present invention provides a method for manufacturing a vehicle seat (1) having a seat cushion (3) and a seat back (4), the method comprising the following steps: supporting a cushion (22) on a frame (21) of the seat back; placing a plurality of airbags (71) and a plurality of vibrators (72) on a front surface of the cushion so that the plurality of vibrators and the plurality of airbags do not overlap with each other when viewed from the front; and covering the cushion with a skin material (23).

[0045] According to this aspect, the vehicle seat can be manufactured in such a manner that the vibrator and the airbag can appropriately perform their respective functions. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0046] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a seat according to a first embodiment of the present invention Figure 2 This is a perspective view of the seat frame. Figure 3 is a horizontal cross-section of the seat back Figure 4 This is an illustration of the seat back when viewed from the front Figure 5 is a block diagram showing the various components of a seat back Figure 6 A vertical cross-section of the seat back Figure 7 is an explanatory diagram of a seat back according to a modification of the first embodiment when viewed from the front Figure 8 is an explanatory diagram of a seat back according to a second embodiment of the present invention when viewed from the front Fig. 9 is an explanatory diagram of a seat back according to a third embodiment of the present invention when viewed from the front Fig.10 is an explanatory diagram of a seat back according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention when viewed from the front Fig.11 is an explanatory diagram of a seat back according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention when viewed from the front Fig.12 is an explanatory diagram of a seat back according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention when viewed from the front Fig.13 is an explanatory diagram of a seat back according to a seventh embodiment of the present invention when viewed from the front Fig.14 is a horizontal cross-sectional view of the seat back of the seventh embodiment Fig.15 is a horizontal cross-sectional view of a seat back according to a modification of the seventh embodiment Fig.16 is an explanatory diagram of a seat back according to an eighth embodiment of the present invention when viewed from the front Fig.17 is an explanatory diagram of a seat back according to a ninth embodiment of the present invention when viewed from the front DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0047] (First embodiment) A vehicle seat applied to an automobile according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the following description, various directions such as front / rear, left / right, and up / down will be defined based on a vehicle in which the seat is installed.

[0048] like Figure 1 As shown, the seat 1 includes a seat cushion 3 provided on a floor 2, a seat back 4 extending upward from a rear portion of the seat cushion 3, and a headrest 5 connected to an upper end of the seat back 4. The seat back 4 is rotatably supported by the seat cushion 3. The seat cushion 3, the seat back 4, and the headrest 5 constitute a seat body 7. The seat cushion 3 supports the buttocks of an occupant, and the seat back 4 supports the back of the occupant.

[0049] like Figure 2 As shown, the seat cushion 3 is set on the floor 2 via a sliding rail device 11. The sliding rail device 11 includes a pair of lower rails 11A attached to the floor 2 on both sides and a pair of upper rails 11B supported on the pair of lower rails 11A respectively so as to be slidable. The seat cushion 3 is connected to the pair of upper rails 11B. A lifting device 12 may be placed between the seat cushion 3 and the pair of upper rails 11B. The lifting device 12 supports the seat cushion 3 so as to be liftable relative to the pair of upper rails 11B.

[0050] The seat cushion 3 includes a seat cushion frame 15 forming a skeleton structure, a seat cushion pad 16 supported by the seat cushion frame 15, and a skin material 17 covering the surface of the seat cushion pad 16. The seat back 4 has a seat back frame 21 forming a skeleton structure, a seat back pad 22 supported by the seat back frame 21, and a skin material 23 covering the surface of the seat back pad 22. The seat cushion frame 15 and the seat back frame 21 are connected to each other via a reclining device 24.

[0051] The seat cushion frame 15 is formed in a rectangular frame shape. The seat cushion frame 15 includes a pair of seat cushion side members 31 extending in the front-rear direction on both sides, a front member 32 extending transversely and connected between the front ends of the pair of seat cushion side members 31, and a rear member 33 extending transversely and connected between the rear ends of the pair of seat cushion side members 31. The front member 32 is preferably a disc frame formed in a plate shape. A flexible pressure receiving member 36 spans between the front member 32 and the rear member 33. The pressure receiving member 36 supports the buttocks of the occupant from below.

[0052] The seat back frame 21 is formed in a rectangular frame shape. The seat back frame 21 includes a pair of seat back side members 41 extending vertically on both sides, an upper member 42 extending horizontally and connected between the upper ends of the left and right seat back side members 41, and a lower member 43 extending horizontally and connected between the lower ends of the left and right seat back side members 41. The left and right seat back side members 41 are formed by metal plate members. The upper member 42 is formed by a metal pipe. The upper member 42 is bent so that its lateral central portion bulges upward. The left and right ends of the upper member 42 are respectively connected to the upper ends of the left and right seat back side members 41.

[0053] The seat back frame 21 also includes a transverse member 45 extending horizontally below the upper member 42 and connected between the left and right ends of the upper member 42. The transverse member 45 is formed of a metal plate member. In other embodiments, the left and right ends of the transverse member 45 can be connected to the left and right seat back side members 41. The transverse member 45 supports the shoulders of the occupant from the rear. The side airbag unit 46 can be provided on the lateral outer surface of at least one of the left and right seat back side members 41.

[0054] The seat back frame 21 is provided with a back pressure receiving portion 47 for supporting the back of the occupant. The back pressure receiving portion 47 spans between the transverse member 45 and the lower member 43. The back pressure receiving portion 47 includes a pair of metal wires 47A spanning between the transverse member 45 and the lower member 43, a resin plate 47B supported by the pair of metal wires 47A, and a plurality of air bags 47C supported by the resin plate 47B. The resin plate 47B is connected to the lower part of the left and right metal wires 47A and faces forward. A plurality of air bags 47C are placed on the front surface of the resin plate 47B. Each air bag 47C can expand and change the shape of the back pressure receiving portion 47 by receiving the supply of air.

[0055] The seat back pad 22 is supported by the seat back frame 21 and the back pressure receiving portion 47. The seat cushion pad 16 is supported by the seat cushion frame 15 and the pressure receiving member 36.

[0056] like Figure 3 As shown, the seat back pad 22 includes a central portion 22A in a transverse central portion thereof and a pair of side support portions 22B protruding forward from the left and right ends of the central portion 22A, respectively. The central portion 22A and the left and right side support portions 22B extend in the vertical direction. The left and right side support portions 22B abut against the left and right sides of the back of the occupant, thereby guiding the back of the occupant toward the central portion 22A.

[0057] like Figure 3 and Figure 4As shown, the front surface of the seat back pad 22 is provided with a plurality of locking grooves 52 for pulling the skin material 23 downward therein. The locking grooves 52 include a plurality of longitudinal locking grooves 52A extending in the vertical direction and a plurality of transverse locking grooves 52B extending in the horizontal direction. The plurality of longitudinal locking grooves 52A may be provided at the boundary between the central portion 22A and the left and right side support portions 22B. The plurality of transverse locking grooves 52B may be provided in the central portion 22A at intervals along the vertical direction. The plurality of transverse locking grooves 52B are connected to the plurality of longitudinal locking grooves 52A to form a plurality of intersections 52C.

[0058] The skin material 23 is joined to the front surface of the seat back pad 22 by a plurality of joints 53. The plurality of joints 53 are joined to a plurality of joined portions provided on the rear surface of the skin material 23. The joined portion may be composed of a decorative string connected to a tab provided on the skin material 23. The decorative string may be a rod-shaped member made of resin and extending linearly. The plurality of joints 53 may be a resin clip that joins the decorative string. The plurality of joints 53 may be placed in the plurality of locking grooves 52. The plurality of joints 53 may be placed in the plurality of longitudinal locking grooves 52A and the plurality of transverse locking grooves 52B. The plurality of joints 53 may be embedded in the plurality of locking grooves 52 by injection molding. The respective edges of the skin material 23 may be connected to each other at the rear of the seat back 4 by a zipper or the like. The respective edges of the skin material 23 may also be hooked to the seat back frame 21 at the rear of the seat back 4.

[0059] like Figure 1 As shown, the headrest 5 includes a pair of pillars 61 supported by the upper member 42, a headrest core 62 supported by the pair of pillars 61, a flexible headrest pad 63 supported by the headrest core 62, and a skin material 64 covering the headrest pad 63. The headrest core 62 may be formed of a resin material or a metal plate.

[0060] like Figure 4 and 5 As shown, the seat back cushion 22 is provided with a plurality of air bags 71 and a plurality of vibrators 72. Each air bag 71 is connected to an air supply device 74. Each air bag 71 is expanded by receiving compressed air from the air supply device 74. The air supply device 74 includes a compressor for compressing air and a plurality of control valves for controlling the supply of compressed air from the compressor to each air bag 71. The air supply device 74 may be located inside the seat cushion 3 or the seat back 4 or may be located on the floor 2. For example, the air supply device 74 may be arranged between the floor 2 and the seat cushion 3.

[0061] The individual airbags 71 change the shape of the front surface of the seat back 4 by expanding and contracting independently of each other. This makes it possible to correct the posture of the seated person. The individual airbags 71 can massage the seated occupant by expanding and contracting. Each airbag 71 is also provided with a pressure sensor that measures its internal pressure. Based on the internal pressure of each airbag 71, the distribution of the pressure applied to the seat back 4 by the seated occupant can be obtained, and the posture of the seated occupant can be detected based on the pressure distribution.

[0062] Each vibrator 72 may include an electric motor and an eccentric weight rotated by the electric motor. Each vibrator 72 may also include an electromagnet and a magnet used as a weight moved by the magnetic force generated by the electromagnet. Each vibrator 72 may stimulate the back of the seated occupant by vibration and may remind the seated occupant to pay attention or give a warning.

[0063] like Figure 4 As shown, the plurality of airbags 71 and the plurality of vibrators 72 are placed between the front surface of the seat back pad 22 and the skin material 23. The plurality of airbags 71 and the plurality of vibrators 72 may be accommodated in a plurality of individual recesses 78 formed in the front surface of the seat back pad 22. Each recess 78 may be equipped with a flexible cover plate 79, which is placed in front of the airbag 71 or vibrator 72 accommodated in the specific recess 78 so as to close the recess 78. Figure 6 As shown, the plurality of air bags 71 may also be provided on the rear surface of the seat back pad 22. The plurality of air bags 71 may be provided between the rear surface of the seat back pad 22 and the back pressure receiving portion 47.

[0064] like Figure 4 As shown, the plurality of airbags 71 and the plurality of vibrators 72 may be provided in the headrest 5. The plurality of airbags 71 and the plurality of vibrators 72 are provided between the front surface of the headrest pad 63 and the skin material 64. In another embodiment, the plurality of airbags 71 and the plurality of vibrators 72 may be received in a plurality of recesses formed in the front surface of the headrest pad 63. A flexible cover may be provided in front of the airbags 71 or the vibrators 72 accommodated in each recess so as to close the recess. The plurality of airbags 71 and the plurality of vibrators 72 may also be provided between the headrest pad 63 and the headrest core 62.

[0065] like Figure 5As shown, the plurality of vibrators 72 and the air supply device 74 are connected to the control device 81. The control device 81 is an electronic control device including a processor and a memory communicatively connected to the processor. The processor may include at least one of a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), and a reduced instruction set computer (RISC) as a core component. The memory may include at least one of a volatile memory and a non-volatile memory. The volatile memory may be a dynamic random access memory (DRAM) or a static random access memory (SRAM). The non-volatile memory may be a solid state drive (SSD), a flash memory, a magnetic disk storage device, or an optical disk storage device. At least a portion of the control device 81 may be implemented by hardware such as LSI, ASIC, FPGA, or may be implemented by a combination of software and hardware. The processor implements various applications by executing a program stored in the memory. The program may be stored in the memory, or may be stored in a removable storage medium such as a DVD or CD-ROM, and may be installed in the memory by reading the storage medium using a reading device. The program may also be downloaded and installed in the memory via a communication network such as the Internet. The control device 81 may be constituted by a single hardware or may be constituted by a plurality of hardwares that can communicate with each other.

[0066] The control device 81 controls the air supply device 74 to control the expansion and contraction of the plurality of air bags 71. This allows the plurality of air bags 71 to massage the seated occupant or correct the posture of the seated occupant. The control device 81 also determines the posture of the occupant based on the internal pressure of the plurality of air bags 71. The control device 81 also notifies the seated occupant of various information by operating the plurality of vibrators 72.

[0067] like Figure 4 As shown, the plurality of vibrators 72 and the plurality of air bags 71 are arranged so that they do not overlap each other when viewed from the front. Some of the plurality of vibrators 72 and some of the plurality of air bags 71 are placed on the front surfaces of the left and right side support parts 22B. In addition, some of the plurality of vibrators 72 and some of the plurality of air bags 71 are placed on the front surface of the central part 22A.

[0068] On the front surface of each side support portion 22B, the multiple vibrators 72 and the multiple air bags 71 are arranged vertically and spaced apart from each other. On the front surface of each side support portion 22B, the multiple vibrators 72 and the multiple air bags 71 are arranged in a single vertical column. Moreover, on the front surface of each side support portion 22B, the multiple vibrators 72 and the multiple air bags 71 are arranged alternately. On the front surface of the central portion 22A, the multiple vibrators 72 and the multiple air bags 71 are arranged in two vertical columns. Moreover, on the front surface of the central portion 22A, the multiple vibrators 72 and the multiple air bags 71 are arranged alternately in the vertical direction.

[0069] On the headrest 5, the plurality of vibrators 72 and the plurality of airbags 71 are arranged so that they do not overlap each other when viewed from the front. On the front surface of the headrest 5, the plurality of vibrators 72 and the plurality of airbags 71 are arranged in two vertical rows. Furthermore, on the headrest 5, the plurality of vibrators 72 and the plurality of airbags 71 are arranged alternately in the vertical direction.

[0070] like Figure 7 As shown, the length of each vibrator 72 in the lateral direction may be greater than the length of each air bag 71 in the lateral direction. In addition, the length of each vibrator 72 in the vertical direction may be greater than the length of each air bag 71 in the vertical direction. This allows the vibration of the vibrator 72 to be transmitted to the seated person in a more effective manner.

[0071] The length of each airbag 71 in the lateral direction may be greater than the length of each vibrator 72 in the lateral direction. In addition, the length of each airbag 71 in the vertical direction may be greater than the length of each vibrator 72 in the vertical direction. As a result, posture detection and posture correction by the airbag 71 can be performed in a more stable manner. The plurality of airbags 71 can also more effectively massage the seated person.

[0072] In the above-mentioned seat 1, the plurality of vibrators 72 and the plurality of air bags 71 are arranged so as not to overlap each other when viewed from the front, so that the plurality of air bags 71 are prevented from absorbing vibrations of the plurality of vibrators 72. This allows the plurality of vibrators 72 and the plurality of air bags 71 to properly perform their respective functions. In other words, the plurality of vibrators 72 and the plurality of air bags 71 are prevented from adversely affecting each other.

[0073] The manufacturing method of the seat 1 includes the steps of supporting the seat back pad 22 on the seat back frame 21 of the seat back 4, arranging the plurality of air bags 71 and the plurality of vibrators 72 on the front surface of the seat back pad 22, and covering the seat back pad 22 with the skin material 23. In arranging the plurality of air bags 71 and the plurality of vibrators 72, the plurality of air bags 71 and the plurality of vibrators 72 are arranged so that the plurality of vibrators 72 and the plurality of air bags 71 do not overlap each other when viewed from the front.

[0074] (Second embodiment) The seat 200 according to the second embodiment of the present invention is different from the seat 1 of the first embodiment in the shapes of the plurality of airbags 71 and the placement of the plurality of airbags 71 and the plurality of vibrators 72. The configuration of the seat 200 of the second embodiment is the same as that of the seat 1 of the first embodiment in other respects.

[0075] like Figure 8 As shown, the plurality of airbags 71 include an annular airbag 71A formed in an annular shape. Each annular airbag 71A defines a central hole 71B preferably opened toward the front and rear. The annular airbags 71A are preferably arranged in the central portion 22A, the left and right side support portions 22B, and the headrest 5. Preferably, the central hole 71B of each annular airbag 71A receives the vibrator 72 therein.

[0076] The plurality of airbags 71 include an airbag 71C formed in a C shape. Each airbag 71C formed in a C shape defines an inner hole 71D opened toward the front and rear. The annular airbag 71A may be disposed in the central portion 22A, the left and right side support portions 22B, and the headrest 5. The inner hole 71D of each C-shaped airbag 71C receives the vibrator 72 therein. The portion of the vibrator 72 located in the inner hole 71D of each airbag 71C may protrude to the outside thereof.

[0077] Some of the plurality of air bags 71 may each be positioned close to the vibrator 72 .

[0078] In the seat 1 of the second embodiment, the plurality of vibrators 72 and the plurality of air bags 71 are arranged so as not to overlap each other when viewed from the front, so that the plurality of air bags 71 are prevented from absorbing vibrations of the plurality of vibrators 72. This allows the plurality of vibrators 72 and the plurality of air bags 71 to properly perform their respective functions.

[0079] (Third Embodiment) The seat 300 according to the third embodiment of the present invention differs from the seat 1 of the first embodiment in that it is additionally provided with a plurality of heaters 301 and a plurality of speakers 302. The configuration of the seat 300 of the third embodiment is otherwise the same as that of the seat 1 of the first embodiment.

[0080] like Fig. 9 As shown, the plurality of speakers 302 and the plurality of heaters 301 are arranged so as not to overlap with the plurality of vibrators 72 and the plurality of air bags 71 when viewed from the front. The plurality of speakers 302 may be arranged in the upper end of the front surface of the central portion 22A and at the upper end of the front surface of the left and right side support portions 22B. The plurality of speakers 302, each serving as an acoustic device, may also be arranged in the vertical central portion of the front surface of the left and right side support portions 22B. The individual speakers 302 may be placed in the recesses 78 formed in the front surface of the central portion 22A and the left and right side support portions 22B.

[0081] Each heater 301 is formed in a sheet shape. Each heater 301 includes a sheet member such as non-woven fabric and a heating wire attached to the surface of the sheet member. Each heater 301 is arranged between the front surface of the seat back pad 22 and the skin material 23. The lateral length of the heater 301 may be greater than the lateral length of the airbag 71 and the lateral length of the vibrator 72. The plurality of heaters 301 are located in the central portion 22A and the left and right side support portions 22B.

[0082] The control device 81 controls each heater 301 and each speaker 302. The control device 81 may be placed behind the lower end of at least one of the left and right side support portions 22B. When viewed from the front, the control device 81 is arranged so as not to overlap with any of the plurality of vibrators 72 and the plurality of air bags 71.

[0083] On the front surface of each of the side support portions 22B, the vibrator 72, the air bag 71, the speaker 302, and the heater 301 are arranged in vertical rows spaced apart from each other.

[0084] (Fourth embodiment) The seat 400 according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention is different from the seat 300 of the third embodiment in that an air conditioning device 401 is additionally provided. The configuration of the seat 400 of the fourth embodiment is the same as that of the seat 1 of the first embodiment in other respects.

[0085] like Fig.10 As shown, a plurality of heaters 301 are provided in the central portion 22A. The plurality of heaters 301 provided in the central portion 22A may include heaters having different lateral lengths. A plurality of heaters 301 are provided in each of the left and right side support portions 22B. A speaker 302 is provided at the upper end of each side support portion. In addition, an air conditioning device 401 is provided at the upper end of each side support portion 22B. Each of the air conditioning devices 401 may include a blower.

[0086] (Fifth Embodiment) The seat 500 according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention is different from the seat 1 of the first embodiment in that an air conditioning device 501 is provided. The configuration of the seat 500 of the fifth embodiment is the same as that of the seat 1 of the first embodiment in other respects.

[0087] like Fig.11 As shown, the air conditioning device 501 includes at least one blower 502, a plurality of air passages 503 and a plurality of air openings 504. The blower 502 may be disposed on the rear surface of the seat back cushion 22. The plurality of air passages 503 are formed inside the seat back cushion 22. For example, a plurality of air grooves may be formed on the front surface of the seat back cushion 22, and a plurality of cover cushions may be placed thereon to cover the plurality of air grooves, thereby forming the air passages 503. The plurality of air passages 503 are connected to the blower 502. The plurality of air openings 504 are in communication with the plurality of air passages 503 and open to the front surface of the seat back 4. When the blower 502 is driven, air is discharged from the plurality of air openings 504 via the plurality of air passages 503. In another embodiment, the blower 502 may be operated so that air is sucked into the plurality of air passages 503 from the plurality of air openings 504.

[0088] When viewed from the front, the air conditioning device 501 is preferably placed so as not to overlap with the plurality of vibrators 72 and the plurality of air bags 71. In particular, the blower 502 or blowers, the plurality of air passages 503 and the plurality of air openings 504 are preferably placed so as not to overlap with the plurality of vibrators 72 and the plurality of air bags 71. When viewed from the front, the blower 502 is preferably placed in the center of the central portion 22A. Moreover, the blower 502 may be provided in the headrest 5. When the seat back pad 22 and the headrest pad 63 are integrally formed, the plurality of air passages 503 preferably extend from the seat back pad 22 to the headrest pad 63.

[0089] (Sixth Embodiment) The seat 600 according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention is different from the seat 300 of the third embodiment in that a plurality of sensors 601 are provided. The configuration of the seat 600 of the sixth embodiment is the same as that of the seat 300 of the third embodiment in other respects.

[0090] The multiple sensors 601 may include a pressure sensor, a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, a wakefulness sensor, a fatigue sensor, a seating sensor, a heart rate sensor, a brain wave sensor, etc. The multiple sensors 601 may be disposed between the front surface of the seat back pad 22 and the skin material 23. The multiple sensors 601 may also be disposed between the front surface of the headrest pad 63 and the skin material 64.

[0091] like Fig.12 As shown, the plurality of sensors 601 are arranged so as not to overlap with the plurality of vibrators 72 and the plurality of air bags 71 when viewed from the front. At least one of the plurality of sensors 601 is arranged on the front surface of each of the left and right side support parts 22B. The plurality of vibrators 72, the plurality of air bags 71 and the plurality of sensors 601 are arranged to be vertically spaced from each other.

[0092] The plurality of sensors 601 may be arranged around the joint 53. The plurality of sensors 601 may be arranged along any one of the plurality of locking grooves 52. Some of the plurality of sensors 601 may be provided between the longitudinal locking groove 52A and the transverse locking groove 52B around the intersection 52C. The sensor 601, the airbag 71, and the vibrator 72 may be arranged in this order from the top along one of the longitudinal locking grooves 52A below one of the transverse locking grooves 52B.

[0093] One of the side members of the seat back 4 may be provided with a side airbag unit 605. In this case, the plurality of sensors 601, the plurality of vibrators 72, and the plurality of airbags 71 may be arranged so as not to overlap with the side airbag unit 605 when viewed from the front. In other embodiments, the plurality of sensors 601, the plurality of vibrators 72, and the plurality of airbags 71 may overlap with the side airbag unit 605 when viewed from the front.

[0094] In other embodiments, the plurality of sensors 601 may be arranged to overlap with at least one of the plurality of vibrators 72 and the plurality of air bags 71 when viewed from the front.

[0095] (Seventh Embodiment) The seat 700 according to the seventh embodiment of the present invention is different from the seat 1 of the first embodiment in the arrangement of the plurality of vibrators 72 and the plurality of airbags 71. The configuration of the seat 700 of the seventh embodiment is the same as that of the seat 1 of the first embodiment in other respects.

[0096] like Fig.13 As shown, when viewed from the front, each vibrator 72 overlaps with the corresponding airbag 71. More specifically, when viewed from the front, each vibrator 72 is arranged to completely overlap with the corresponding airbag 71. In particular, when viewed from the front, each vibrator 72 is preferably arranged at the center of the corresponding airbag 71. Moreover, when viewed from the front, the center of each vibrator 72 and the center of the corresponding airbag 71 preferably coincide with each other. According to this embodiment, when each airbag 71 is inflated, the corresponding vibrator 72 is pressed against the seated occupant through the airbag 71. This promotes the transmission of the vibration of the vibrator 72 to the seated occupant.

[0097] like Fig.14 As shown, a plurality of recesses 78 are formed in the central portion 22A and the left and right side support portions 22B, and each airbag 71 and the corresponding vibrator 72 are preferably arranged in the corresponding recess 78 formed in the front surface of the seat back pad 22. Each airbag 71 is placed on the bottom surface of the corresponding recess 78, and the corresponding vibrator 72 is placed on the front surface of the corresponding airbag 71. The opening of each recess 78 is provided with a cover plate 79 that closes the opening of the recess 78. The cover plate 79 is flexible.

[0098] The plurality of recesses 78 may form a portion of the plurality of air passages 503. In other words, the plurality of recesses 78 communicate with each other via the plurality of air passages 503. Therefore, it can be said that the plurality of air bags 71 and the plurality of vibrators 72 are provided in the plurality of air passages 503.

[0099] like Fig.15 As shown, in another embodiment, each vibrator 72 may be disposed on the bottom surface of the corresponding recess 78, and the corresponding airbag 71 may be disposed in front of the vibrator 72. According to this embodiment, the vibration of each vibrator 72 is transmitted to the seated occupant via the corresponding airbag 71. Therefore, the intensity of the vibration transmitted to the seated occupant can be changed according to the inflation state of the airbag 71.

[0100] (Eighth Embodiment) The seat 800 according to the eighth embodiment of the present invention is different from the seat 700 of the seventh embodiment in the arrangement of the plurality of vibrators 72 and the plurality of airbags 71. The configuration of the seat 800 of the eighth embodiment is otherwise the same as that of the seat 700 of the seventh embodiment.

[0101] like Fig.16 As shown, when viewed from the front, a portion of each vibrator 72 may protrude outward from the corresponding airbag 71. In other words, when viewed from the front, a portion of each vibrator 72 may not overlap with the corresponding airbag 71. The length of the vibrator 72 in the lateral direction may be greater than the length of the corresponding airbag 71 in the lateral direction. The length of the vibrator 72 in the vertical direction may be greater than the length of the corresponding airbag 71 in the vertical direction. According to this aspect, the vibrator 72 can be made larger so that the vibration transmitted from the vibrator 72 can be more effectively transmitted to the seated person.

[0102] (Ninth Embodiment) The seat 900 according to the ninth embodiment of the present invention is different from the seat 700 of the seventh embodiment in that the seat 900 is provided with an air conditioning device 501. The configuration of the seat 900 of the ninth embodiment is the same as that of the seat 700 of the seventh embodiment in other respects.

[0103] like Fig.17 As shown, when viewed from the front, each air conditioning device 501 may overlap at least one of the vibrator 72 and the airbag 71. In particular, when viewed from the front, the blower 502 of each air conditioning device 501 may overlap at least one of the vibrator 72 and the airbag 71.

[0104] The present invention has been described according to a specific embodiment of the present invention, but the present invention is not limited to the above-mentioned embodiment and can be modified and implemented in various ways. The above-mentioned embodiment is directed to the seat back 4, but the present invention can also be applied to the seat cushion 3. Similar to the above-mentioned seat back 4, the seat cushion 3 can be provided with a vibrator 72, an air bag 71, a sensor 601 and an air conditioning device 501. The arrangement of the vibrator 72, the air bag 71, the sensor 601 and the air conditioning device 501 in the seat cushion 3 can be the same as the arrangement of the seat back 4. The front-to-back direction of the seat back 4 corresponds to the vertical direction of the seat cushion 3.

[0105] The sensor 601 may be used as an input device for accepting input operations from a seated person. The seat 1 may be configured to move forward and backward, rotate about a vertical axis, tilt, and perform other operations in response to input from the sensor 601. When the seat 1 is in operation and there is a possibility that the seat 1 may come into contact with another object, the operations of the vibrator 72, the airbag 71, and the air conditioning device 501 may be limited.

[0106] The seat 1 may be provided with a table. The table may be provided to be movable relative to the seat cushion 3 between a storage position and a use position, and when the table is in the use position, the operation of the vibrator 72, the airbag 71 and the air conditioning device 501 may be restricted.

[0107] When the child seat is attached to the seat 1, the operations of the vibrator 72, the air bag 71, and the air conditioning device 501 may be restricted. Whether the child seat is attached to the seat 1 may be determined by a signal from the sensor 601. Reference numerals list

[0108] 1. 200, 300, 400, 500, 600, 700, 800, 900: seats 2: Floor 3: Seat Cushion 4: Seat back 5: Headrest 21: Seat back frame 22: Seat back cushion 22A: Central part 22B: Side support part 23: Skin material 46: Side airbag unit 52: Locking groove 52A: Longitudinal locking groove 52B: lateral locking groove 52C: intersection 53: Joint 71: Airbag 72: vibrator 78: recess 81: Control device 301: Heater 302: Speaker 501: Air conditioning device 502: Blower 503: Air channel 504: Air opening 601: Sensor 605: Side airbag unit

Claims

1. A vehicle seat, comprising a seat cushion and a seat back extending upward from a rear portion of the seat cushion, The seat back includes a frame forming a skeleton structure, a cushion supported by the frame, a skin material covering the cushion, and a plurality of air bags and a plurality of vibrators provided on the cushion. wherein the pad includes a transverse central portion and a pair of side support portions protruding forward from both side ends of the central portion, and in, Some of the plurality of vibrators and some of the plurality of air bags are placed on front surfaces of left and right side support parts such that the plurality of air bags are vertically displaced from the plurality of vibrators.

2. The vehicle seat according to claim 1, wherein: An electronic control device that controls the plurality of vibrators is disposed behind a lower end portion of at least one of the left and right side support portions.

3. The vehicle seat according to claim 1, wherein: A plurality of sensors are disposed between the front surface of the cushion and the skin material, the front surfaces of the left and right side support parts are each provided with at least one of the plurality of sensors, and the plurality of vibrators, the plurality of airbags and the plurality of sensors are vertically spaced apart from each other.

4. The vehicle seat according to claim 3, wherein: A headrest is provided at an upper end of the seat back, and at least one of the plurality of vibrators, at least one of the plurality of airbags, and at least one of the plurality of sensors are provided in a front portion of the headrest.

5. The vehicle seat according to claim 3, wherein: The skin material is secured to the front surface of the cushion by a plurality of joints, and the plurality of sensors are positioned adjacent to the plurality of joints.

6. The vehicle seat according to claim 5, wherein: The gasket is provided on a front surface thereof with a plurality of locking grooves for pulling the skin material thereinto, the plurality of engagement portions are disposed in the plurality of locking grooves, and the plurality of sensors are disposed along at least one of the plurality of locking grooves.

7. The vehicle seat according to claim 6, wherein: The plurality of locking grooves include a plurality of longitudinal locking grooves extending in a vertical direction and a plurality of transverse locking grooves extending in a horizontal direction, and at least some of the plurality of sensors are disposed adjacent to intersections of the plurality of longitudinal locking grooves and the plurality of transverse locking grooves.

8. The vehicle seat according to claim 7, wherein: The sensor, the airbag, and the vibrator are arranged in this order from the top along one of the plurality of longitudinal locking grooves below one of the plurality of lateral locking grooves.

9. The vehicle seat according to claim 1, wherein: Each of the plurality of air bags is formed in a ring shape and is provided with a central hole in which a corresponding vibrator is located.

10. A method for manufacturing a vehicle seat having a seat cushion and a seat back, the method comprising the steps of: supporting a cushion on a frame of the seat back; placing a plurality of air bags and a plurality of vibrators on a front surface of the pad so that the plurality of vibrators and the plurality of air bags do not overlap each other when viewed from the front, and The pad is covered with a skin material.

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