Vehicle seat and method for producing a vehicle seat

Abstract

Task of the invention is to prevent displacement and / or offset of a cushion member of a vehicle seat relative to a support member. [Solution] A vehicle seat (1) includes a seat frame (8) serving as a skeleton frame, a support member (14) provided on the seat frame and having an upward-facing support surface (22), and a cushion member (21) supported on the support member and having a contact surface (25) in contact with the support surface, at least one of the support surface of the support member and the contact surface of the pad member has a plurality of protrusions (18, 47) formed thereon and protruding toward the other of the support surface and the contact surface.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an attachment structure for a vehicle seat. Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a vehicle seat including a seat frame, a support member provided on the seat frame, a seat pad (pad member) supported by the support member, and a seat cover (outer skin) covering the seat pad. The support member has a surface capable of contacting the seat pad. Prior art literature Patent Literature

[0003] Patent Document 1: JP2015-123321A Summary of the invention The task to be accomplished by the present invention

[0004] The vehicle seat disclosed in Patent Document 1 involves the following problem: when an occupant is seated and a load caused by the weight of the occupant is applied to the seat pad, the load may cause the seat pad to be displaced and / or offset relative to the support member. This can cause deformation of the seat pad, thereby making the vehicle seat uncomfortable for the occupant. The displacement of the seat pad can also reduce the stability of the vehicle seat for supporting the occupant. In addition, the deformation of the seat pad can cause the seat cover to form wrinkles, thereby damaging the appearance of the vehicle seat.

[0005] The present invention has been made in view of the problems of the prior art, and a main object of the present invention is to provide a vehicle seat configured to prevent a cushion member of the vehicle seat from being displaced and / or offset relative to a support member. Means of accomplishing the task

[0006] As a solution to the above-mentioned task to be accomplished, one aspect of the present invention provides a vehicle seat (1), comprising: a seat frame (8) serving as a skeleton frame; a support member (14) disposed on the seat frame and having a support surface (22) facing upward; and a cushion member (21) supported on the support member, the cushion member having a contact surface (25) in contact with the support surface, wherein at least one of the support surface of the support member and the contact surface of the cushion member has a plurality of protrusions (18, 47) formed thereon and protruding toward the other of the support surface and the contact surface.

[0007] In this configuration, each of the plurality of protrusions captures (ie, engages) the cushion member or the support member, which prevents the cushion member from shifting and / or deflecting relative to the support member.

[0008] The vehicle seat may also be configured such that the plurality of protrusions (18) are formed on the support surface of the support member and protrude toward the contact surface of the cushion member, and wherein the contact surface of the cushion member has a plurality of recesses (29) formed thereon that receive corresponding protrusions.

[0009] In this configuration, a plurality of recesses formed on the cushion member receive corresponding protrusions formed on the support member, which enables each of the individual protrusions to grip into the cushion member in a more effective manner. This means that this configuration effectively prevents the cushion member from shifting and / or deflecting relative to the support member.

[0010] The vehicle seat may also be configured so that the plurality of protrusions extend in the left-right direction of the vehicle seat, and wherein each of the plurality of protrusions has a first line (38) embedded therein.

[0011] This configuration improves the durability of each of the respective protrusions.

[0012] The vehicle seat may also be configured such that the seat frame includes: left and right side members (9) which are spaced apart from each other; and a plurality of second wires (43) which extend in the left-right direction and are connected to the left and right side members, and wherein the contact surface of the cushion member has a plurality of cutouts (44) formed thereon to receive the corresponding second wires.

[0013] In this configuration, even if the vehicle seat has a simple structure, each of the plurality of second wires is engaged by the cushion member, which prevents the cushion member from being displaced and / or offset relative to the support member.

[0014] The vehicle seat may also be configured such that the plurality of protrusions (47) are formed on the contact surface of the pad member and protrude toward the support member, and wherein the support member has a plurality of through holes (46) extending therethrough to receive the plurality of protrusions.

[0015] In this configuration, a plurality of protrusions formed on the cushion member are received in corresponding recesses formed on the support member, which enables each protrusion to be captured in the cushion member in a more effective manner. This means that this configuration effectively prevents the cushion member from being displaced and / or offset relative to the support member.

[0016] The vehicle seat may also be configured such that the plurality of protrusions include a plurality of elongated protrusions extending along the support surface in at least two directions that are different from each other.

[0017] In this configuration, each of the plurality of protrusions is captured in the cushion member in a more effective manner. This means that even if a force is applied to the cushion member so that the cushion member will move horizontally in a predetermined direction, this configuration prevents the cushion member from being displaced and / or offset relative to the support member.

[0018] The vehicle seat may also be configured such that each of the plurality of protrusions has a tapered cross-sectional shape that tapers upward.

[0019] This configuration facilitates the assembling work of receiving the plurality of protrusions in the corresponding recesses.

[0020] The vehicle seat may also be configured so that the plurality of protrusions are unevenly disposed to be distributed in a portion of the support surface of the support member.

[0021] This configuration prevents displacement and / or deflection of the cushion member relative to the support member in a more effective manner.

[0022] The vehicle seat may also be configured such that the plurality of protrusions are integrally formed with the corresponding recesses.

[0023] In this configuration, when each of the plurality of protrusions is received in a corresponding through hole in the support surface of the support member, each of the plurality of protrusions is captured in the support member in a more effective manner. As a result, the cushion member is prevented from shifting and / or deflecting relative to the support member.

[0024] As a solution to the above-mentioned task to be accomplished, another aspect of the present invention provides a method for manufacturing a vehicle seat (1), wherein the vehicle seat comprises a seat frame (8) serving as a skeleton frame, a support member (14) disposed on the seat frame, and a cushion member supported on the support member, and wherein the support member has a plurality of through holes (46) extending therethrough, the method comprising a molding step ( Fig.15 ), wherein in the molding step, the cushion member and the support member are molded together as one piece, and wherein in the molding step, multiple portions of the cushion member are received in corresponding through holes formed in the support member.

[0025] In this configuration, a plurality of through holes are formed in the support member, and the cushion member has a plurality of protrusions formed thereon that receive corresponding through holes in the support member. In addition, the contact surface of the cushion member and the support surface of the support member are bonded to each other. These features prevent the cushion member from shifting and / or offsetting relative to the support member.

[0026] In recent years, environmentally friendly biomass polyurethanes have been developed. Biomass polyurethanes are polyurethane foams containing raw materials including renewable plants and other biomass resources. Cushion components made of biomass polyurethane (hereinafter also referred to as "first cushion components") can be used in a variety of applications such as vehicle seats, cushions, sofas and door linings.

[0027] However, when the first cushion component is used in various applications, there is a problem that a considerable load applied to the first cushion component may cause significant deformation of the first cushion component (e.g., occurrence of concavity of the cushion component). In particular, when the first cushion component is used at a position in contact with a person, a large load caused by the weight of the person can cause significant deformation of the first cushion component. In addition, when the first cushion component is used in an interior component of a vehicle (e.g., a seat and a door lining), the movement of the vehicle may cause an even greater load to be applied to the first cushion component, resulting in significant deformation or damage to the first cushion component. In addition, when receiving a force from a moving component such as an expandable / contractible bag (specifically, an airbag), the first cushion component can deform more significantly.

[0028] Therefore, another object of the present invention is to provide a seat cushion and a vehicle seat which are configured to prevent significant deformation of a cushion member made of biomass polyurethane.

[0029] As a solution to the above-mentioned task to be completed, one aspect of the present invention provides a seat cushion, which includes a first cushion component and one or more movable components. The first cushion component is made of biomass polyurethane. Each of the one or more movable components is switchable between a first state and a second state different from the first state. At least one movable component included in the one or more movable components is arranged to "avoid" the at least one movable component; that is, it is arranged so that the boundary of the at least one movable component does not contact the first cushion component.

[0030] In this configuration, the at least one movable part is arranged to avoid the first cushion part; that is, arranged so that a boundary of the at least one movable part does not contact the first cushion part, which prevents significant deformation of the cushion part made of biomass polyurethane.

[0031] The seat cushion may also be configured such that the seat cushion further comprises a second cushion component that is less deformable than the first cushion component, and the at least one movable component is located in the second cushion component.

[0032] In this configuration, the movable member moves within the second cushion member, which can prevent large deformation of the first cushion member.

[0033] The seat cushion may also be configured such that each of the one or more movable components is a bag that expands and contracts in the seat cushion by injecting air into or releasing air from the bag.

[0034] The seat cushion may also be configured such that the seat cushion has a seat surface for supporting a user, and at least a portion of the second cushion member is located between the seat surface and the first cushion member.

[0035] The seat cushion can also be configured so that the seat cushion is used as a seat for a user to sit on, and includes a base part and left and right raised parts that are raised more toward the user than the base part, wherein the first cushion part is arranged to avoid the user side surfaces of the left and right raised parts; that is, it is arranged so that the boundary of the first cushion part does not contact the user side surfaces of the left and right raised parts.

[0036] In this configuration, the first cushion part is arranged to avoid the user-side surfaces of the left and right raised parts; that is, it is arranged so that the boundary of the first cushion part does not contact the user-side surfaces of the left and right raised parts, which tend to receive a large load caused by the weight of the user. As a result, the force applied to the user-side surfaces of the raised parts is less likely to be transmitted to the first cushion part, which effectively reduces the deformation of the first cushion part.

[0037] The seat cushion can also be configured so that the seat cushion is used as a seat for a user to sit on, and includes a base part and left and right raised parts that are raised more toward the user than the base part, wherein the first cushion part is arranged to avoid a connection portion where the user-side surfaces of the left and right raised parts are connected to the user-side surface of the base part; that is, it is arranged so that a boundary of the first cushion part does not contact the connection portion.

[0038] In this configuration, the first cushion member is arranged to avoid the connection portion; that is, arranged so that the boundary of the first cushion member does not contact the connection portion, where stress tends to concentrate. As a result, the stress applied to the connection portion is less likely to be transmitted to the first cushion member, which effectively reduces the deformation of the first cushion member.

[0039] The seat cushion may also be configured such that an entire surface of the first cushion member is covered by the second cushion member.

[0040] In this configuration, even if a load is applied to any position of the surface of the seat cushion, this means that the force applied to the seat cushion is less likely to be transmitted to the first cushion component, thereby effectively reducing deformation of the first cushion component.

[0041] The seat cushion may also be configured such that the seat cushion further includes an air passage through which air flows, and the first cushion component is spaced apart from the air passage.

[0042] In this configuration, even if deformation occurs in the passage embedding portion of the seat cushion where the air passage is formed and deformation may occur, the first cushion component is less likely to be affected by the deformation of the passage embedding portion. This further reduces deformation of the first cushion component.

[0043] The seat cushion may also be configured such that the seat cushion further includes a heater, and the first cushion member is spaced apart from the heater.

[0044] In this configuration, heat from the heater is less likely to be transferred to the first seat cushion component, which means that the first seat cushion component is less affected by the heat from the heater.

[0045] The seat cushion may also be configured such that the seat cushion further includes a notification device for providing notification to the user, and the first cushion component is remote from the notification device.

[0046] In this configuration, heat from the notification device is less likely to be transferred to the first seat cushion member, which means that the first seat cushion member is less affected by the heat from the notification device.

[0047] The seat cushion may also be configured such that the seat cushion further includes a sensor for acquiring body information of a user, and the first cushion part is away from the sensor.

[0048] In this configuration, heat from the sensor is less likely to be transferred to the first cushion component, which means that the first cushion component is less affected by the heat from the sensor.

[0049] A second aspect of the present invention provides a seat cushion, which includes a first cushion component and one or more movable components. The first cushion component is made of biomass polyurethane. Each of the one or more movable components is switchable between a first state and a second state different from the first state. Each of the one or more movable components has a maximum displacement portion, at which the displacement amount is maximum when the state is switched from the first state to the second state. The maximum displacement portion of at least one movable component included in the one or more movable components is arranged to avoid the first cushion component; that is, it is arranged so that the boundary of the maximum displacement portion of at least one movable component does not contact the first cushion component.

[0050] In this configuration, the maximum displacement portion of the at least one movable member is arranged to avoid the first cushion member; that is, arranged so that the boundary of the maximum displacement portion does not contact the first cushion member, which prevents significant deformation of the cushion member made of biomass polyurethane.

[0051] A third aspect of the present invention provides a vehicle seat including the seat cushion described above, a frame supporting the seat cushion, and an airbag device equipped with an airbag deployable outside the seat cushion. The first cushion member is spaced apart from the airbag device.

[0052] This configuration reduces deformation of the first cushion member even if operation of the airbag device causes force to be applied to the seat cushion. Effects of the Invention

[0053] As described above, the present invention can be implemented as a vehicle seat (1), comprising: a seat frame (8) serving as a skeleton frame; a support member (14) disposed on the seat frame and having a support surface (22) facing upward; and a cushion member (21) supported on the support member, the cushion member having a contact surface (25) in contact with the support surface, wherein at least one of the support surface of the support member and the contact surface of the cushion member has a plurality of protrusions (18, 47) formed thereon and protruding toward the other of the support surface and the contact surface.

[0054] In this configuration, each of the plurality of protrusions captures (ie, engages) the cushion member or the support member, which prevents the cushion member from shifting and / or deflecting relative to the support member.

[0055] The vehicle seat may also be configured such that the plurality of protrusions (18) are formed on the support surface of the support member and protrude toward the contact surface of the cushion member, and wherein the contact surface of the cushion member has a plurality of recesses (29) formed thereon that receive corresponding protrusions.

[0056] In this configuration, a plurality of recesses formed on the cushion member receive corresponding protrusions formed on the support member, which enables each of the individual protrusions to grip into the cushion member in a more effective manner. This means that this configuration effectively prevents the cushion member from shifting and / or deflecting relative to the support member.

[0057] The vehicle seat may also be configured so that the plurality of protrusions extend in the left-right direction of the vehicle seat, and wherein each of the plurality of protrusions has a first line (38) embedded therein.

[0058] This configuration improves the durability of each of the respective protrusions.

[0059] The vehicle seat may also be configured such that the seat frame includes: left and right side members (9) which are spaced apart from each other; and a plurality of second wires (43) which extend in the left-right direction and are connected to the left and right side members, and wherein the contact surface of the cushion member has a plurality of cutouts (44) formed thereon to receive the corresponding second wires.

[0060] In this configuration, even if the vehicle seat has a simple structure, each of the plurality of second wires is engaged by the cushion member, which prevents the cushion member from being displaced and / or offset relative to the support member.

[0061] The vehicle seat may also be configured such that the plurality of protrusions (47) are formed on the contact surface of the pad member and protrude toward the support member, and wherein the support member has a plurality of through holes (46) extending therethrough to receive the plurality of protrusions.

[0062] In this configuration, a plurality of protrusions formed on the cushion member are received in corresponding recesses formed on the support member, which enables each protrusion to be captured in the cushion member in a more effective manner. This means that this configuration effectively prevents the cushion member from being displaced and / or offset relative to the support member.

[0063] The vehicle seat may also be configured such that the plurality of protrusions include a plurality of elongated protrusions extending along the support surface in at least two directions that are different from each other.

[0064] In this configuration, each of the plurality of protrusions is captured in the cushion member in a more effective manner. This means that even if a force is applied to the cushion member so that the cushion member will move horizontally in a predetermined direction, this configuration prevents the cushion member from being displaced and / or offset relative to the support member.

[0065] The vehicle seat may also be configured such that each of the plurality of protrusions has a tapered cross-sectional shape that tapers upward.

[0066] This configuration facilitates the assembling work of receiving the plurality of protrusions in the corresponding recesses.

[0067] The vehicle seat may also be configured so that the plurality of protrusions are unevenly disposed to be distributed in a portion of the support surface of the support member.

[0068] This configuration prevents displacement and / or deflection of the cushion member relative to the support member in a more effective manner.

[0069] The vehicle seat may also be configured such that the plurality of protrusions are integrally formed with the corresponding recesses.

[0070] In this configuration, when each of the plurality of protrusions is received in a corresponding through hole in the support surface of the support member, each of the plurality of protrusions is captured in the support member in a more effective manner. As a result, the cushion member is prevented from shifting and / or deflecting relative to the support member.

[0071] As a solution to the above-mentioned task to be accomplished, another aspect of the present invention provides a method for manufacturing a vehicle seat (1), wherein the vehicle seat comprises a seat frame (8) serving as a skeleton frame, a support member (14) disposed on the seat frame, and a cushion member supported on the support member, and wherein the support member has a plurality of through holes (46) extending therethrough, the method comprising a molding step ( Fig.15 ), wherein in the molding step, the cushion member and the support member are molded together as one piece, and wherein in the molding step, multiple portions of the cushion member are received in corresponding through holes formed in the support member.

[0072] In this configuration, a plurality of through holes are formed in the support member, and the cushion member has a plurality of protrusions formed thereon that receive corresponding through holes in the support member. In addition, the contact surface of the cushion member and the support surface of the support member are bonded to each other. These features prevent the cushion member from shifting and / or offsetting relative to the support member. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0073] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a vehicle seat in which the present invention is implemented; Figure 2 is a perspective view of a seat frame and a support member according to a first embodiment of the present invention; Figure 3 is a perspective view showing a cushion member; Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view showing a cushion member (along Figure 3 sectional view taken along line IV-IV in FIG. 1 ); Figure 5 is a perspective view of a seat cushion of the first embodiment; Figure 6 is a cross-sectional side view of a seat cushion of the first embodiment; Figure 7 is a perspective view of a support member according to a second embodiment of the present invention; Figure 8 is a cross-sectional side view of a seat cushion of a second embodiment; Fig. 9 is a perspective view of a support member according to a third embodiment of the present invention; Fig.10 is a cross-sectional side view of a seat cushion of a third embodiment; Fig.11 is a perspective view of a seat frame and a support member according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention; Fig.12 is a sectional side view of a seat cushion of a vehicle seat according to a fourth embodiment; Fig.13 is a perspective view of a supporting member according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention; Fig.14 is a cross-sectional side view of a seat cushion of a fifth embodiment; Fig.15 is an explanatory diagram showing a method for manufacturing a vehicle seat of a fifth embodiment; Fig.16 is a perspective view of a supporting member according to a seventh embodiment of the present invention; Fig.17 is an explanatory diagram showing a method for manufacturing a vehicle seat of a fifth embodiment; Fig.18 is a perspective view of a vehicle seat according to an eighth embodiment of the present invention; Fig.19 is a perspective view of a seat frame of a vehicle seat; Fig. 20 is a cross-sectional view of a seat back including (a) and (b), wherein (a) is a view showing the bag in a collapsed state, and (b) is a view showing the bag in an expanded state; Fig.21 is a sectional view of a seat back according to a ninth embodiment of the present invention; Fig. 22 is a sectional view of a seat back according to a tenth embodiment of the present invention; Fig.23 is a sectional view of a seat back according to an eleventh embodiment of the present invention; Fig.24 is a sectional view of a seat back according to a twelfth embodiment of the present invention; Fig.25 is a sectional view of a seat back according to a modification of the twelfth embodiment; Fig.26 is a sectional view of a seat back according to a thirteenth embodiment of the present invention; Fig. 27 is a sectional view of a seat back according to a fourteenth embodiment of the present invention; Fig.28 is a sectional view of a seat back according to a fifteenth embodiment of the present invention; Fig.29 is a sectional view of a seat back according to a sixteenth embodiment of the present invention; Fig.30including (a) and (b), wherein (a) is a sectional view of a seat back according to a seventeenth embodiment of the present invention, and (b) is a sectional view of a seat back according to a modification of the seventeenth embodiment; Fig.31 is a sectional view of a seat back according to an eighteenth embodiment of the present invention; Fig.32 is a sectional view of a seat back according to a nineteenth embodiment of the present invention; Fig.33 is a sectional view of a seat cushion according to a twentieth embodiment of the present invention, showing the seat cushion attached to an inner panel of a vehicle door; Fig.34 A seat cushion according to a twenty-first embodiment of the present invention is shown, and includes Figures (a) and (b) showing the seat cushion used as a seat cushion; Fig.35 is a view showing a sofa provided with a seat cushion according to a twenty-second embodiment of the present invention; Fig.36 is a sectional view of a seat back according to a twenty-third embodiment of the present invention; and Fig.37 (a) and (b) are included, which show the positional relationship between the pocket and the first cushion member in a seat cushion according to a twenty-fourth embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0074] An embodiment of the present invention implemented in a vehicle seat 1 installed in a vehicle such as an automobile will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following description, front / rear (longitudinal), left / right (lateral) and up / down (vertical) directions are defined relative to the vehicle.

[0075] <First Embodiment> like Figure 1 As shown, the vehicle seat 1 is arranged on a floor 3 defining the bottom of the vehicle interior 2, so that the vehicle seat 1 faces forward. In the present embodiment, the vehicle seat 1 is arranged as a front seat.

[0076] The car seat 1 includes a seat cushion 4 coupled to a floor 3, a seat back 5 coupled to the rear of the seat cushion 4, and a headrest 6 provided on the top of the seat back 5. The seat cushion 4 supports the buttocks and thighs of the occupant. The seat back 5 supports the lower back and back of the occupant.

[0077] like Figure 2As shown, the car seat 1 also includes a seat frame 8 serving as a structural frame of the seat cushion 4. The seat frame 8 includes a pair of side members 9 on the left and right, and the left and right side members are arranged to be spaced apart from each other. Each of the left and right side members 9 is made of a metal plate-like member and extends in the front-rear direction. The left and right side members 9 are spaced apart from each other so that their main surfaces face each other.

[0078] The seat frame 8 includes a front member 11 extending in the left-right direction and connected to the front ends of the left and right side members 9. The front member 11 is made of a metal plate-like member having a width in the front-rear direction. The front end of the front member 11 is located in front of the front end of each of the left and right side members 9. In addition, the front member 11 has a front end portion protruding upward.

[0079] The seat frame 8 further includes a rear member 12 extending in the left-right direction and connected to the rear ends of the left and right side members 9, and an intermediate member 13 extending in the left-right direction and connected to the left and right side members 9. The intermediate member 13 is provided in the front-rear direction between the front member 11 and the rear member 12. The rear member 12 and the intermediate member 13 are made of metal tubular members, and a gap is provided therebetween in the front-rear direction.

[0080] The seat cushion 4 includes a support member 14 disposed between the intermediate member 13 and the rear member 12. The support member 14 includes a support member body 15, a plurality of first anchors 16 extending forward from a front end of the support member body 15 and bent in an arc shape to have a hat-like cross section (i.e., an inverted U-shaped cross section taken along a line extending in the front-rear direction), and a plurality of second anchors 17 extending rearward from a rear end of the support member body 15 and bent in an arc shape to have a hat-like cross section.

[0081] The support member body 15 is made of a flexible plastic material and generally has a plate-like shape. The support member body 15 has a plate-like portion having a surface facing upward and a surface facing downward. In addition, the support member body 15 has left and right side inclined surfaces extending outwardly and obliquely upward from the plate-like portion.

[0082] The plate-like portion of the support member body 15 has a plurality of support side protrusions protruding upward from the upwardly facing surface. Each of the plurality of support side protrusions 18 of the support member body 15 has a rectangular shape having two pairs of side faces facing the front-rear and left-right directions. In other cases, each of the plurality of support side protrusions 18 of the support member body 15 may have a conical shape.

[0083] The plurality of first anchors 16 and the plurality of second anchors 17 may be made of the same plastic material as the body of the support member body 15. Each of the first anchors 16 and the second anchors 17 has an arcuate cross-sectional shape.

[0084] The support member 14 is attached to the seat frame 8 by respective first anchors 16 and respective second anchors 17 anchored to the intermediate member 13 and the rear member 12 , respectively.

[0085] The support member 14 also has a plurality of side wires 19 and a center wire 20, each of which is made of metal, extending in the front-rear direction and connecting the intermediate member 13 and the rear member 12. The side wires 19 located on the left and right extend under the left and right side portions of the support member 14. The center wire 20 extends under the center portion of the support member 14.

[0086] Each of the left and right side wires 19 has a first end 19A and a second end 19B extending in the front-to-back direction and connected to the rear member 12 and the intermediate member 13, respectively, wherein the second end 19B is located laterally inside the first end 19A. The front end of the first end 19A is arranged behind the rear end of the second end 19B. In addition, each of the two side wires 19 has a curved portion 19C connecting the front end of the first end 19A and the rear end of the second end 19B. Each of the first end 19A is arranged to contact the lower surface of the corresponding side of the support member body 15, and extends from the rear member 12 to the center of the support member 14 in the front-to-back direction. Each second end 19B is arranged to contact the lower surface of the corresponding side of the plate-like portion of the support member body 15, and extends from the center of the support member 14 to the intermediate member 13. Each second end 19B is arranged to contact the lower surface of the corresponding side of the plate-like portion of the support member body 15, and extends from the center of the support member 14 to the intermediate member 13.

[0087] When viewed from the side, the front and rear ends of the center line 20 are bent in an arc shape. The front and rear ends of the center line 20 are hooked on the corresponding second anchor 17 and the first anchor 16, respectively.

[0088] like Figure 3 As shown, the seat cushion 4 has a cushion member 21 supported by the support member 14. The cushion member 21 is a component having a three-dimensional shape, which is formed by injection foam molding or extrusion foam molding of a plastic foam material such as polyurethane foam ( Fig.15 ). This feature allows the cushion member 21 to be elastic. The cushion member 21 is provided to cover the front member 11, the rear member 12, and the support member 14 of the seat frame 8 from above.

[0089] The cushion member 21 has an upper surface 23 that supports the buttocks and thighs of the occupant. The upper surface 23 includes a first upper surface 23A forming the rear center of the upper surface 23, a second upper surface 23B extending forward from the first upper surface 23A and forming the front center of the upper surface 23, and two third upper surfaces 23C each extending laterally outward from the center of the upper surface 23 of the cushion member 21.

[0090] The first upper surface 23A has a surface facing upward. The second upper surface 23B has an inclined surface extending rearward and obliquely upward. Each of the third upper surfaces 23C has an inclined surface extending laterally outward and obliquely upward.

[0091] The cushion member 21 has a lower surface 24 that contacts the front member 11, the rear member 12, and the support member 14 in the seat frame 8. In other words, a portion of the lower surface 24 of the cushion member 21 contacts the upper surface of the support member body 15, which allows the cushion member 21 to be supported on the support member 14. Both the upward-facing surface of the plate-like portion and the upper surface of the inclined portion of the support member body 15 serve as a support surface 22 for supporting the cushion member 21. The lower surface 24 of the cushion member 21 that contacts the support surface 22 of the support member body 15 forms a contact surface 25.

[0092] like Figure 4 As shown, the lower surface 24 of the pad member 21 has a plurality of receiving grooves extending in the left-right direction and recessed upward. In the present embodiment, three receiving grooves are formed on the lower surface 24. The three receiving grooves include a first receiving groove 26, a second receiving groove 27, and a third receiving groove 28 in order from front to back. The first receiving groove 26 extends along the front end of the second upper surface 23B of the pad member 21, i.e., overlaps with it when viewed from above. The second receiving groove 27 extends along the rear end of the second upper surface 23B of the pad member 21, i.e., overlaps with it when viewed from above. The third receiving groove 28 extends along the rear end of the first upper surface 23A of the pad member 21, i.e., overlaps with it when viewed from above.

[0093] The contact surface 25 of the pad member 21 has a plurality of pad side recesses 29 recessed upward. Each of the plurality of pad side recesses 29 has a rectangular shape in plan view and is formed within the first upper surface 23A of the pad member 21, ie, overlaps therewith when viewed from above.

[0094] like Figure 5 and 6 As shown, when the cushion member 21 is placed on the seat frame 8 and the support member 14, the first receiving groove 26 receives the front end of the front member 11. The second receiving groove 27 receives the middle member 13 via the first anchor 16 of the support member 14. The third receiving groove 28 receives the rear member 12 via the second anchor 17 of the support member 14. Each of the plurality of cushion side recesses 29 receives a corresponding support side protrusion 18 formed on the support member body 15.

[0095] The cushion member 21 placed on the seat frame 8 and the support member 14 is covered with an outer skin (not shown) and is made of stretchable fabric or any other suitable material. The outer skin forms the appearance of the vehicle seat 1 .

[0096] When an occupant is seated in the car seat 1, the occupant's buttocks are supported by the first upper surface 23A of the cushion member 21, and the occupant's thighs are supported by the second upper surface 23B of the cushion member 21. When viewed from above, the first upper surface 23A of the cushion member 21 overlaps most of the support surface 22 of the support member 14. When an occupant is seated in the car seat 1 and a load caused by the weight of the occupant is applied to the cushion member, the upper surface 23 of the cushion member 21 is deformed so that the cushion member is recessed downward. The support member 14 supports the cushion member 21 while bending downward due to the load caused by the weight of the occupant applied thereto. This allows the car seat 1 to be comfortable for the seated occupant.

[0097] The load acting on the support member 14 is transmitted to the rear member 12 and the intermediate member 13 via the left and right side wires 19 and the center wire 20. This improves the durability of the support member 14.

[0098] When the occupant is seated, a load caused by the weight of the occupant is applied to the cushion member 21 in an inclined direction extending vertically and horizontally (in the front-rear and left-right directions). The horizontal component of the applied load applies a force capable of moving the cushion member 21. When the cushion member 21 is placed on the support member 14, the plurality of cushion side recesses 29 in the cushion member 21 receive the corresponding support side protrusions 18 formed on the support member 14, which causes the protrusions to be captured in the cushion member 21, which prevents the cushion member 21 from shifting and / or offsetting relative to the support member 14. In addition, the protrusions caught in the cushion member 21 also prevent the outer skin (not shown) from shifting and / or offsetting relative to the support member 14. This reduces the formation of wrinkles in the outer skin, thereby maintaining the good appearance of the car seat 1.

[0099] Each of the plurality of support side protrusions 18 on the support member 14 has a rectangular shape having two pairs of side faces facing in the front-rear and left-right directions, which prevents the cushion member 21 from being displaced and / or offset in the front-rear and left-right directions relative to the support member 14. As a result, the cushion member 21 is more effectively prevented from being displaced and / or offset relative to the support member 14.

[0100] In other embodiments, the lower surface 24 of the cushion member 21 may not have the cushion side recesses 29 capable of receiving the plurality of support side protrusions 18 on the support surface 22 of the support member 14. A downward force (such as a load caused by the cushion member 21 or the weight of the occupant) acts on the cushion member 21. As a result, the contact surface 25 of the cushion member 21 is deformed to receive the plurality of protrusions formed on the support surface 22 of the support member 14. Such deformation of the contact surface 25 of the cushion member 21 has the same effect as the cushion side recesses 29 in the above-described embodiment. Therefore, this configuration can prevent the cushion member 21 from being displaced and / or offset relative to the support member 14.

[0101] <Second Embodiment> The vehicle seat 1 of the second embodiment of the present invention is different from the first embodiment in that the support member 14 and the cushion member 21 are constructed differently. In the description of the second embodiment, the same features or elements as those of the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof is not repeated. In the drawings related to the second embodiment, the side line 19 and the center line 20 are not shown for the sake of clarity.

[0102] like Figure 7 As shown, the plurality of support side protrusions 18 on the support surface 22 of the support member body 15 include a plurality of first support side protrusions 18A, a plurality of second support side protrusions 18B and a plurality of third support side protrusions 18C. The first, second and third support side protrusions 18A, 18B and 18C extend along the support surface 22 in three directions different from each other.

[0103] Each of the respective first, second and third support side protrusions 18A, 18B, 18C comprises a curved elongated protrusion along the support surface 22. The respective first, second and third support side protrusions 18A, 18B, 18C are unevenly disposed to be distributed in the rear portion of the support surface 22.

[0104] Each of the plurality of first support side protrusions 18A is a curved elongated protrusion extending substantially in the left-right direction and curving toward the front. The plurality of first support side protrusions 18A extend in the rear portion of the support surface 22 with gaps therebetween in the front-rear direction.

[0105] The plurality of second support side protrusions 18B extend in the right rear portion of the support surface 22. Each of the plurality of second support side protrusions 18B is a curved elongated protrusion that extends generally forward toward the right from the rear and bends inward. The plurality of second support side protrusions 18B extend on the support surface 22 with gaps therebetween along a line extending forward toward the right from the rear.

[0106] The plurality of third support side protrusions 18C extend in the left rear portion of the support surface 22. Each of the plurality of third support side protrusions 18C is a curved elongated protrusion that extends generally forward toward the left from the rear and bends inward. The plurality of third support side protrusions 18C extend on the support surface 22 with gaps therebetween along a line extending forward toward the left from the rear.

[0107] Each of the supporting side protrusions 18A, 18B and 18C has a tapered cross-sectional shape that tapers upward ( Figure 8 ). In other words, each of the supporting side protrusions 18A, 18B and 18C has a first inclined surface 31A facing upward and forward, and a second inclined surface 31B facing upward and backward. In other cases, each of the supporting side protrusions 18A, 18B and 18C may have a triangular cross-sectional shape.

[0108] like Figure 8 As shown, the contact surface 25 of the cushion member 21 has a plurality of cushion-side recesses 29 formed thereon, which receive the respective support-side protrusions 18A, 18B, and 18C on the support surface 22 of the support member body 15 .

[0109] When the cushion member 21 is placed on the support member 14, each cushion side recess 29 in the cushion member 21 receives the corresponding support side protrusion 18 formed on the support member body 15. This causes the plurality of support side protrusions 18 to be captured in the cushion member 21, which prevents the cushion member 21 from being displaced and / or offset relative to the support member 14.

[0110] The configuration in which each of the respective support-side protrusions 18A, 18B, 18C has a tapered cross-section that tapers upward facilitates the assembling work so that the respective support-side protrusions 18A, 18B, 18C are received in the corresponding recesses 29 of the cushion member 21 .

[0111] When the occupant is seated, the load caused by the weight of the occupant is applied to the cushion member 21 in the inclined directions extending vertically and horizontally (in the front-rear and left-right directions). Each of the support side protrusions 18A, 18B, 18C has a first inclined surface 31A facing upward and forward, which can provide a right-angle support against the load caused by the weight of the occupant and applied in the inclined direction extending downward and rearward, and the inclined direction is substantially perpendicular to the first inclined surface 31A. Each of the support side protrusions 18A, 18B, 18C has a second inclined surface 31B facing upward and backward, which can provide a right-angle support against the load caused by the weight of the occupant and applied in the inclined direction extending downward and forward, and the inclined direction is substantially perpendicular to the first inclined surface 31B. This feature allows the support side protrusions 18 to be effectively captured in the cushion member 21, which prevents the cushion member 21 from being displaced and / or offset relative to the support member 14.

[0112] The first support side protrusion 18A, the second support side protrusion 18B, and the third support side protrusion 18C extend in directions different from each other. In addition, the first support side protrusion 18A, the second support side protrusion 18B, and the third support side protrusion 18C are bent toward directions different from each other. This feature allows at least one of the first support side protrusion 18A, the second support side protrusion 18B, and the third support side protrusion 18C to provide a right-angle support against a load caused by the weight of an occupant, which effectively prevents the cushion member 21 from being displaced and / or offset relative to the support member 14.

[0113] When viewed from above, the rear portion of the support surface 22 overlaps the occupant's hip. Therefore, the load caused by the occupant's weight tends to be concentrated on the rear portion of the support surface 22. The respective first, second, and third support-side protrusions 18A, 18B, 18C are unevenly arranged to be distributed in the rear portion of the support surface 22 of the support member 14. This feature allows the plurality of support-side protrusions 18 to be effectively captured in the cushion member 21, which prevents the cushion member 21 from being displaced and / or offset relative to the support member 14.

[0114] <Third Embodiment> The vehicle seat 1 of the third embodiment of the present invention is different from the first embodiment in that the support member 14 and the cushion member 21 are constructed differently. In the description of the third embodiment, the same features or elements as those of the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their description is not repeated.

[0115] like Fig. 9As shown, each of the plurality of support side protrusions 18 on the support surface 22 of the support member body 15 extends in the left-right direction. In the present embodiment, the two support side protrusions 18 are away from each other in the front-back direction with a certain distance therebetween. The two support side protrusions 18 are located at the front and rear ends of the support member body 15. Each of the two support side protrusions 18 has a first wire 38 embedded therein. The first wire 38 is preferably made of the same metal as the side wire 19 and the center wire 20.

[0116] like Fig.10 As shown, the cushion side recessed portion 29 on the contact surface 25 of the cushion member 21 is recessed upward from the contact surface 25 and extends in the left-right direction. In the present embodiment, two cushion side recessed portions 29 extend laterally with a certain distance therebetween. The two cushion side recessed portions 29 extend so as to overlap with the corresponding support side protrusions 18 on the support surface 22 of the support member body 15 when viewed from above. When the cushion member 21 is placed on the seat frame 8 and the support member 14, each of the two cushion side recessed portions 29 receives a corresponding one of the support side protrusions 18.

[0117] When the cushion member 21 is placed on the support member 14, each of the two cushion-side recesses 29 on the contact surface 25 of the cushion member 21 receives a corresponding support-side protrusion 18 on the support surface 22 of the support member body 15. This causes the support-side protrusion 18 to engage the cushion member 21, which prevents the cushion member 21 from being displaced and / or offset relative to the support member 14. Each of the two support-side protrusions 18 has a corresponding first wire of the respective first wires 38 embedded therein, which improves the durability of each support-side protrusion 18.

[0118] <Fourth Embodiment> The vehicle seat 1 of the fourth embodiment of the present invention is different from the third embodiment in that the seat frame 8 and the cushion member 21 are constructed differently. In the description of the fourth embodiment, the same features or elements as those of the third embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their description is not repeated.

[0119] like Fig.11 As shown, the seat frame 8 includes a plurality of second wires 43 extending in the left-right direction and connected to the left and right side members 9. In the present embodiment, the plurality of second wires 43 are located above the front and rear ends of the support member 14. Each of the two second wires 43 may be made of the same material as the first wire 38 and the two side wires 19.

[0120] like Fig.12As shown, the contact surface 25 of the pad member 21 has a plurality of cutouts 44, each of which receives a corresponding second wire among the plurality of second wires 43. The plurality of cutouts 44 may be formed by a process including a step of cutting into the contact surface 25 of the pad member 21 to a predetermined depth using a tool such as a cutter. When each of the plurality of second wires 43 is not received in a corresponding cutout among the plurality of cutouts 44, the front and rear facing surfaces defining each cutout may contact each other.

[0121] The pad member 21 is elastic. Therefore, when each of the plurality of second wires 43 is received in a corresponding cutout of the plurality of cutouts 44 defined by the front and rear facing surfaces, force is applied to a surface of the front and rear facing surfaces that contacts each of the plurality of second wires 43. As a result, the plurality of second wires 43 are engaged in the pad member 21.

[0122] The two second wires 43 are supported by the cushion member 21, which prevents the cushion member 21 from moving in the front-rear direction. In other words, this configuration prevents the cushion member 21 from being displaced and / or offset relative to the support member 14. In addition, each of the two second wires 43 is connected to the left and right side members 9, which means that even if the car seat has such a simple structure that does not include the front member 11 or the rear member 12, the cushion member 21 is prevented from being displaced and / or offset relative to the support member.

[0123] <Fifth Embodiment> The car seat 1 of the fifth embodiment of the present invention is different from the first embodiment in that the support member 14 and the cushion member 21 are constructed differently. In the description of the fifth embodiment, the same features or elements as those of the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their description is not repeated.

[0124] like Fig.13 As shown, the support member 14 has a plurality of through holes 46 extending through in a vertical direction. Examples of the shape of each through hole 46 when viewed from above may include, but are not limited to, polygonal shapes, such as triangles, squares, or pentagons. Alternatively, the plurality of through holes 46 may include through holes of different shapes. In some cases, the plurality of through holes 46 may be arranged in a regular pattern. Alternatively, the plurality of through holes 46 may be arranged in an irregular pattern.

[0125] like Fig.14As shown, the contact surface 25 of the cushion member 21 has a plurality of cushion side protrusions 47 protruding toward the support surface 22 of the support member 14. Preferably, the plurality of cushion side protrusions 47 are formed during the process of molding the cushion member 21. Although the plurality of cushion side protrusions 47 may be arranged in an irregular pattern or form, preferably, at least some of the plurality of cushion side protrusions 47 are received in corresponding through holes of the plurality of through holes 46 of the support member 14.

[0126] When the cushion member 21 is placed on the support member 14, at least some of the plurality of through holes 46 of the support member 14 receive the corresponding cushion side protrusions 47 formed on the cushion member 21. As a result, the received cushion side protrusions 47 are captured in the cushion member 21, which prevents the cushion member 21 from being displaced and / or offset relative to the support member 14.

[0127] In other embodiments, the cushion member 21 may not have the plurality of cushion side protrusions 47. In this case, when a downward force (e.g., a load applied to the cushion member due to the weight of the cushion member 21 and the weight of the occupant) acts on the cushion member 21, the upper surface 23 of the cushion member 21 is deformed so that a portion of the cushion member extends through the through hole 46. Such deformation of the contact surface 25 of the cushion member 21 has the same effect as the cushion side protrusions 47 in the above-described embodiment. Therefore, this configuration can prevent the cushion member 21 from being displaced and / or offset relative to the support member 14.

[0128] <Sixth Embodiment> The automobile seat 1 of the sixth embodiment of the present invention is different from the fifth embodiment in that the support member 14 is formed integrally with the cushion member 21. In the description of the sixth embodiment, the same features or elements as those of the fifth embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their description is not repeated.

[0129] The cushion member 21 is a component formed by injection foaming or extrusion foaming of a plastic foam material such as polyurethane foam. Fig.15 As shown, the manufacturing device 48 for manufacturing the cushion member 21 has a first mold 48A and a second mold 48B arranged to face each other with a vertical gap therebetween. The first mold 48A is disposed on the upper side, and the second mold 48B is disposed on the lower side.

[0130] The lower surface of the first mold 48A and the upper surface of the second mold 48B have curved surfaces of respective complex shapes. The lower surface of the first mold 48A and the upper surface of the second mold 48B have curved surfaces, respectively, which are used to form the lower surface 24 and the upper surface 23 of the cushion member 21. In other words, the lower surface of the first mold 48A and the upper surface of the second mold 48B respectively form the surfaces of the cushion member 21 turned vertically, that is, the upper surface and the lower surface of the cushion member 21.

[0131] like Fig.15 As shown in (A), the method for manufacturing the automobile seat 1 includes a first step of attaching the support member 14 to the first mold 48A. Specifically, the support member 14 is attached to the first mold 48A so that the lower surface of the support member 14 contacts the lower surface of the first mold 48A in use, and the lower surface of the support member 14 is the opposite surface of the support surface 22. The support member 14 has a plurality of through holes 46 extending therethrough. The lower surface of the first mold 48A has portions that overlap with the plurality of through holes 46 of the support member 14 when viewed from below, and these portions of the lower surface are made smooth.

[0132] like Fig.15 As shown in (B), the manufacturing method includes, after the step of attaching the support member 14 to the first mold 48A, filling the plastic foam material 51 between the first mold 48A and the second mold 48B. The step of filling the plastic foam material 51 is preferably performed by using a nozzle 52, for example.

[0133] like Fig.15 As shown in (C), the manufacturing method also includes molding a plastic foam material 51 to form the cushion member 21 by using a foam molding process. In this molding step, the cushion member 21 and the support member 14 are molded together as a single piece. In this molding step, a portion of the plastic foam material 51 is filled into each of the plurality of through holes 46 of the support member 14. As a result, a plurality of portions of the cushion member 21 are received in the plurality of through holes 46 of the support member 14. The portions of the cushion member 21 received in the plurality of through holes 46 of the support member 14 form the plurality of cushion side protrusions 47. Therefore, the plurality of cushion side protrusions 47 on the support surface 22 of the cushion member 21 are formed integrally with the corresponding through holes 46 of the support surface 22 of the support member 14.

[0134] In other embodiments, the support surface 22 of the support member 14 may have a plurality of support side recesses that are recessed downward. In this case, the molding step involves filling a portion of the plastic foam material 51 into each of the plurality of support side recesses of the support member 14. As a result, each of the plurality of pad side protrusions 47 on the support surface 22 of the pad member 21 is integrally formed with a corresponding support side recess of the plurality of support side recesses formed in the support surface 22 of the support member 14.

[0135] The cushion member 21 and the support member 14 are formed as a single piece, which enables the plurality of cushion side protrusions 47 to be received in the corresponding through holes 46 of the support surface 22 of the support member 14, while enabling the contact surface 25 of the cushion material to be bonded to the support surface 22 of the support member 14. In addition, the plurality of cushion side protrusions 47 on the support surface 22 of the cushion member 21 are integrally formed with the corresponding through holes 46 on the support surface 22 of the support member 14. In addition, the plurality of cushion side protrusions 47 are captured in the corresponding through holes 46 of the support member 14. These features prevent the cushion member 21 from shifting and / or offsetting relative to the support member 14.

[0136] <Seventh Embodiment> The automotive seat 1 of the seventh embodiment of the present invention is different from the fifth embodiment in that the support member 14 and the cushion member 21 are constructed differently. In the description of the seventh embodiment, the same features or elements as those of the fifth embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof is not repeated.

[0137] like Fig.16 As shown, the support member 14 has a plurality of slits 55 in the rear portion, which extend vertically through the support surface 22 and extend horizontally substantially in the left-right direction. Each of the plurality of slits 55 is bent toward the front and arranged with gaps between adjacent slits in the plurality of slits 55.

[0138] Although not shown in detail, the plurality of pad-side protrusions 47 on the contact surface 25 of the pad member 21 extend generally in the left-right direction and are bent forward so that the plurality of pad-side protrusions 47 can be received in the corresponding slits 55 .

[0139] When the cushion member 21 is placed on the support member 14, the plurality of cushion side protrusions 47 on the contact surface 25 of the cushion member 21 are received in the corresponding slits 55. As a result, the plurality of cushion side protrusions 47 are captured in the corresponding slits 55 of the support member 14. This prevents the cushion member 21 from being displaced and / or offset relative to the support member 14.

[0140] When viewed from above, the rear portion of the support surface 22 overlaps the occupant's hips. Therefore, the load caused by the occupant's weight tends to be concentrated on the rear portion of the support surface 22. The plurality of slits 55 are unevenly arranged to be distributed in the rear portion of the support surface 22 of the support member 14, which effectively enables the plurality of pad side protrusions 47 to be effectively captured in the support member 14. This means that the pad member 21 is prevented from being displaced and / or offset relative to the support member 14.

[0141] <Eighth Embodiment> The manufacturing device 48 for manufacturing the vehicle seat 1 of the eighth embodiment of the present invention is different from the manufacturing device 48 of the sixth embodiment in that the first mold 48A is constructed differently. In the description of the eighth embodiment, the features or elements of the vehicle seat 1 and the manufacturing device 48 for manufacturing the vehicle seat 1 that are the same as those of the sixth embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof is not repeated.

[0142] like Fig.17 As shown, the lower surface of the first mold has a plurality of upwardly recessed grooves 57. When the support member 14 is attached to the first mold 48A, each of the plurality of grooves 57 is aligned with a corresponding through hole in the plurality of through holes 46 extending from the support surface 22 of the support member 14.

[0143] like Fig.17 As shown in (A), the method of manufacturing the automobile seat 1 includes a first step of attaching the support member 14 to the first mold 48A. Specifically, the support member 14 is attached to the first mold 48A so that the lower surface of the support member 14 contacts the lower surface of the first mold 48A during use.

[0144] like Fig.17 As shown in (B), the manufacturing method includes, after the step of attaching the support member 14 to the first mold 48A, filling the plastic foam material 51 between the first mold 48A and the second mold 48B. The step of filling the plastic foam material 51 is preferably performed by using a nozzle 52, for example.

[0145] like Fig.17As shown in (C), the method includes a molding step of molding the cushion member 21 and the support member 14 together as a single piece. In the molding step, a portion of the plastic foam material 51 is filled into each of the plurality of through holes 46 of the support member 14 and each of the plurality of grooves 57 of the first mold 48A. As a result, a plurality of portions of the cushion member 21 are received in the plurality of through holes 46 of the support member 14 and the plurality of grooves 57 of the first mold 48A. The respective portions of the cushion member 21 received in the plurality of through holes 46 of the support member 14 and the plurality of grooves 57 of the first mold 48A form the plurality of cushion side protrusions 47. Therefore, the plurality of cushion side protrusions 47 on the support surface 22 of the cushion member 21 are formed integrally with the corresponding through holes 46 of the support surface 22 of the support member 14. When the pad member 21 and the support member 14 are removed from the manufacturing apparatus 48 , the plurality of pad-side protrusions 47 on the support surface 22 of the pad member 21 extend through corresponding through-holes 46 extending from the support surface 22 of the support member 14 .

[0146] The pad member 21 and the support member 14 are formed as a single piece, which allows the plurality of pad side protrusions 47 to be received in the corresponding through holes 46 of the support surface 22 of the support member 14, while allowing the contact surface 25 of the pad member 21 to be bonded to the support surface 22 of the support member 14. In addition, the plurality of pad side protrusions 47 on the support surface 22 of the pad member 21 are integrally formed with the corresponding through holes 46 on the support surface 22 of the support member 14. In addition, the plurality of pad side protrusions 47 are captured in the corresponding through holes 46 of the support member 14. These features prevent the pad member 21 from being displaced and / or offset relative to the support member 14.

[0147] Specific embodiments of the present invention are described above. However, these embodiments are non-restrictive, and various modifications may be made to the embodiments without departing from the scope of the present invention. For example, although in the sixth and eighth embodiments, the cushion member 21 and the support member 14 are provided in the seat cushion 4, the cushion member 21 and the support member 14 may be provided in the seat back 5. Although in the sixth and eighth embodiments, the cushion member 21 and the support member 14 having the plurality of through holes 46 formed therein are integrally formed, the cushion member 21 and the support member 14 having the plurality of protrusions 18 formed thereon may also be integrally formed as a single piece.

[0148] <Eighth Embodiment> Next, the details of the vehicle seat according to the eighth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Fig.18As shown, the vehicle seat S is a seat installed in, for example, a car. The vehicle seat may also be a seat installed in a ship or an airplane. In the following description, the front / rear (longitudinal), left / right (lateral), and up / down (vertical) directions are defined relative to a user seated in the vehicle seat S.

[0149] The vehicle seat S includes a seat bottom S1, a seat back S2, and a headrest S3. More specifically, the vehicle seat S includes Fig.19 The seat frame FR shown and Fig. 20 The seat cushion C is shown. The seat cushion C is supported by the seat frame FR.

[0150] like Fig.19 As shown, the seat frame FR has a seat bottom frame FR1 serving as a frame of the seat bottom S1 and a seat back frame FR2 serving as a frame of the seat back S2. A seat cushion C is attached to the seat back frame FR2 and the seat bottom frame FR1, respectively.

[0151] Although not shown, the frame of the headrest S3 is removably attached to the upper end of the seat back frame FR2. The frame of the headrest S3 is covered with a pad main body and a skin cover. In other words, the seat cushion is also attached to the frame of the headrest S3.

[0152] The seat bottom frame FR1 and the seat back frame FR2 have respective pairs of left and right side frames SF disposed spaced apart from each other in the left-right direction, and respective support members 105 disposed between the corresponding pair of left and right side frames SF and receiving a load caused by the weight of the user. Fig. 20 As shown, each support member 105 supports the central portion of the corresponding seat cushion C.

[0153] Fig. 20 The seat cushion C shown is a seat cushion forming a seat back S2. The seat cushion C also has a seat bottom structure forming a seat bottom S1, which is substantially the same as the seat cushion C forming the seat back S2, and a description thereof will not be repeated.

[0154] The seat cushion C includes a pad main body 100 covering the seat frame FR, a skin cover 108 covering the pad main body 100, a plurality of bags 109 as an example of a movable member, and an airbag device AB. The skin cover 108 is made of any suitable material such as synthetic leather or a fabric material.

[0155] like Fig. 20 As shown in FIG. 1 , the cushion body 100 has a base part 100A and raised parts 100B located on the left and right sides of the base part 100A. The raised parts 100B are raised more toward the seated user than the base part 100A. Since the cushion body 100 is substantially symmetrical, Fig. 20An enlarged view of a portion of the pad body 100 on one of the left and right sides is shown.

[0156] The base part 100A has a first support surface F1 facing the user. The raised part 100B, which is one of the left and right raised parts, has a second support surface F2 facing the user. The first support surface F1 and the second support surface F2 are in contact with the skin cover 108 and are configured to support the user via the skin cover 108.

[0157] The pad body 100 has a pull-in groove GR for pulling the skin cover 108 thereinto. The first support surface F1 is connected to the second support surface F2 at the bottom of the pull-in groove GR. In other words, the connection portion CN at which the first support surface F1 is connected to the second support surface F2 is located at the bottom of the pull-in groove GR on each side. The pull-in groove GR is formed at a position within the position range of the support member 105 in the left-right direction.

[0158] The skin cover 108 has a first user side surface F11 extending along and on the first support surface F1 and a second user side surface F12 extending along and on the second support surface F2. The first user side surface F11 and the second user side surface F12 face the user seated on the vehicle seat S and can contact and support the user.

[0159] The cushion body 100 includes a first cushion part 101 and a second cushion part 102, both of which are made of biomass polyurethane. Biomass polyurethane is a polyurethane foam containing at least 35%, preferably more than 50% of plant-derived raw materials. For example, ECOLOCEL (registered trademark) can be used as the biomass polyurethane.

[0160] The first cushion component 101 includes a portion of the base component 100A that is opposite to the user. The first cushion component 101 is positioned to avoid the first support surface F1 of the raised component 100B. As used herein, the expression "the first cushion component 101 is positioned to avoid something (e.g., the first support surface F1)" means that the first cushion component 101 is positioned so that the first cushion component 101 is away from something. In other words, the expression means that the first cushion component 101 is positioned so that the boundary of the first cushion component 101 does not contact something. Similarly, the expression "the position of the first cushion component 101 avoiding something" means "the position of the first cushion component 101 away from something" or "the position at which the boundary of the first cushion component 101 does not contact something."

[0161] The first cushion part 101 is disposed between the left and right raised parts 100B in the left-right direction. The first cushion part 101 is disposed avoiding (ie, away from) the connecting part CN. The first cushion part 101 is disposed between the left and right pulled-in grooves GR in the left-right direction.

[0162] The first cushion component 101 is away from the airbag device AB. The first cushion component 101 is disposed away from a tear line TL described later. The first cushion component 101 is in contact with and supported by a support member 105.

[0163] The second cushion member 102 is made of polyurethane foam which is less deformable than the first cushion member 101. The second cushion member 102 is in contact with the first cushion member 101 and reduces deformation of the first cushion member 101.

[0164] Examples of a method for measuring the deformation resistance of the first cushion member 101 and the second cushion member 102 include a hardness test method A included in the test method specified in JIS (Japanese Industrial Standards) K6400-2:2012 (test method for flexible porous polymer material).

[0165] The second cushion member 102 forms the user-side portion of the base member 100A and the raised portion 100B. A portion of the second cushion member 102 is located between the first user-side surface F11 and the first cushion member 101 .

[0166] The second cushion member 102 has a recess 102A formed thereon and is configured so that the first cushion member 101 fits into the recess 102A. The second cushion member 102 has a slit-like tear line TL that allows the airbag to be deployed forward from the airbag device AB. The second cushion member 102 contacts and is supported by the support member 105 and the corresponding side frame SF.

[0167] The airbag apparatus AB includes an airbag allowed to be deployed outward from the seat cushion C and an inflator for supplying gas to the airbag. The airbag apparatus AB is fixed to the corresponding side frame SF.

[0168] Each bag 109 is configured to expand or contract in the seat cushion C by injecting air into the bag or releasing air from the bag. Fig. 20 (a) shows the first state and Fig. 20 (b) The second state is switched between the first state and the second state. The second state is a state different from the first state. In the first state, each bag 109 expands in the first state and contracts in the second state. When each bag 109 is in the second state, the first user-side surface F11 and the second user-side surface F12 bulge toward the user.

[0169] Each pocket 109 is arranged to avoid (ie, be away from) the first cushion part 101. Each pocket 109 is located within the second cushion part 102.

[0170] The base member 100A contains therein two or more of the respective pockets 109. Each of the respective raised members 100B contains a single pocket of the respective pockets 109. Although a single pocket is provided in the base member in this case, two or more pockets may be provided at different positions in each raised member.

[0171] The pocket 109 in the base member 100A is located near the first user-side surface F11 . More specifically, the distance between the pocket 109 and the first user-side surface F11 is smaller than the distance from the pocket 109 to the first cushion member 101 .

[0172] The pocket 109 in the raised part 100B is located near the second user-side surface F12. More specifically, the distance between the pocket 109 and the second user-side surface F12 is smaller than the distance from the pocket 109 to the surface of the seat cushion C on the opposite side to the user.

[0173] The vehicle seat S of the eighth embodiment achieves the following technical effects: First, in this configuration, each pocket 109 is arranged to avoid (ie, be away from) the first cushion member 101 , which prevents significant deformation of the first cushion member 101 made of biomass polyurethane.

[0174] In this configuration, each pocket 109 is located within the second cushion part 102 and is therefore movable within the second cushion part 102 , which prevents significant deformation of the first cushion part 101 .

[0175] In this configuration, the second cushion component 102 reduces deformation of the first cushion component 101 made of biomass polyurethane, which prevents significant deformation of the first cushion component 101 .

[0176] In this configuration, the first cushion part 101 is arranged to avoid the user-side surface of the raised part 100B; that is, it is arranged so that the boundary of the first cushion part does not contact the user-side surface of the raised part 100B, which tends to receive a large load caused by the weight of the user. As a result, the force applied to the user-side surface of the raised part is less likely to be transmitted to the first cushion part 101, which effectively reduces the deformation of the first cushion part 101.

[0177] In this configuration, the first cushion member 101 is arranged to avoid the connection portion CN; that is, arranged so that the boundary of the first cushion member does not contact the connection portion CN where stress tends to concentrate. As a result, the stress applied to the connection portion CN is less likely to be transmitted to the first cushion member 101, which further reduces the deformation of the first cushion member 101.

[0178] In this structure, the first cushion member 101 is disposed away from the airbag device AB, which reduces deformation of the first cushion member 101 even if operation of the airbag device AB causes force to be applied to the seat cushion C. In addition, the first cushion member 101 has no tear line TL, which further reduces deformation of the first cushion member 101.

[0179] The above-described embodiments (particularly, the eighth embodiment) are non-limiting, and the constructions of these embodiments can be applied to other embodiments described below. In the following description, features or elements identical to those of the above-described embodiments are denoted by the same reference numerals, without repeating their description.

[0180] <Ninth Embodiment> like Fig.21 As shown, the pad main body 120 according to the ninth embodiment of the present invention includes a second cushion part 122 on the user side and a first cushion part 121 on the opposite side to the user.

[0181] The second cushion member 122 has the first support surface F1, the second support surface F2, the pull-in groove GR and the connection portion CN as described above. The portion of the second cushion member 122 forming the base member 100A is located between the first user-side surface F11 and the first cushion member 121. The portion of the second cushion member 122 forming the raised member 100B is located between the second user-side surface F12 and the first cushion member 121.

[0182] The first cushion part 121 is in contact with the support member 105 and the side frame SF and is thus supported thereby. The first cushion part 121 is disposed avoiding the connection portion CN. The first cushion part 121 is disposed avoiding the second support surface F2. The first cushion part 121 is disposed avoiding the corner CP of the corresponding raised part 100B.

[0183] The pad main body 120 of the ninth embodiment includes a bag 109A located in the second cushion component 122 , a bag 109B located in the first cushion component 121 , and a bag 109C sandwiched between the first cushion component 121 and the second cushion component 122 .

[0184] The cushion body 120 of the ninth embodiment achieves the following technical effects. First, in this configuration, the first cushion part 121 is arranged to avoid the connection part CN where stress tends to concentrate. As a result, the stress applied to the connection part CN is less likely to be transmitted to the first cushion part 121, which further reduces the deformation of the first cushion part 121.

[0185] In this structure, the first cushion part 121 is arranged to avoid the second support surface F2, which is the user-side surface of the raised part 100B, which tends to receive a large load caused by the weight of the user. Therefore, the force applied to the second support surface F2 is less likely to be transmitted to the first cushion part 121, which effectively reduces the deformation of the first cushion part 121.

[0186] <Tenth Embodiment> like Fig. 22 As shown, compared with the ninth embodiment, the pad main body 130 according to the tenth embodiment of the present invention includes a first cushion part 131 on the user side and a second cushion part 132 on the opposite side to the user.

[0187] The first cushion member 131 has the above-mentioned first support surface F1, second support surface F2, pull-in groove GR and connection part CN. The portion of the first cushion member 131 forming the base member 100A is located between the first user-side surface F11 and the second cushion member 132. The portion of the first cushion member 131 forming the raised member 100B is located between the second user-side surface F12 and the second cushion member 132.

[0188] The second cushion part 132 is located at the farthest position from the user among the various parts forming the pad main body 100. The second cushion part 132 is in contact with and supported by the support member 105 and the side frame SF.

[0189] The pad main body 130 of the tenth embodiment includes a bag 109A located in the second cushion component 132 , a bag 109B located in the first cushion component 131 , and a bag 109C sandwiched between the first cushion component 131 and the second cushion component 132 .

[0190] <Eleventh Embodiment> like Fig.23 As shown, the cushion body 140 according to the eleventh embodiment of the present invention includes a first cushion part 141 and a second cushion part 142, which are different in shape from the first cushion part and the second cushion part of the eighth embodiment. In this embodiment, the second cushion part 142 covers the entire surface of the first cushion part 141. The first cushion part 141 is covered by the second cushion part 142 and is thus away from the entire outer surface of the cushion body 140, and the second cushion part 142 is located between the first cushion part 141 and the cushion body 140.

[0191] The second cushion component 142 has the first support surface F1, the second support surface F2, the pull-in groove GR, and the connection portion CN as described above The second cushion component 142 is in contact with and supported by the support member 105 and the side frame SF.

[0192] The pad main body 140 of the ninth embodiment includes a bag 109A located inside the second cushion member 142 , and a bag 109C sandwiched between the first cushion member 121 and the second cushion member 122 .

[0193] The pad body 140 of the eleventh embodiment achieves the following technical effects. First, in this configuration, even if a load is applied to any position on the surface of the seat cushion C, the stress applied to the seat cushion is less likely to be transmitted to the first cushion part 141, which further reduces the deformation of the first cushion part 141. In addition, this configuration prevents the first cushion part 141 from being deteriorated due to oxygen and moisture.

[0194] <Twelfth Embodiment> like Fig.24 As shown, the cushion body 150 according to the twelfth embodiment of the present invention includes a first cushion part 151 and a second cushion part 152, which are different in shape from the first cushion part and the second cushion part of the eighth embodiment. In this embodiment, the second cushion part 152 forms most of the cushion body 150, and the rest of the cushion body 150 is partially formed by the first cushion part 151.

[0195] In addition to the first support surface F1, the second support surface F2, the pull-in groove GR and most of the connection part CN described above, the second cushion part 152 also includes an air channel AL through which air flows. The air channel AL has a first opening AL1 that opens on the user-side surface of the cushion body 150, that is, the first support surface F1, and also has a second opening (not shown) that opens on the side of the cushion body 150 opposite to the user. The second opening (not shown) is connected to a blower capable of blowing and sucking air via a duct or any suitable device. The second cushion part 152 is in contact with and supported by the support member 105 and the side frame SF.

[0196] The first cushion member 151 is mainly composed of a first member 511 and a second member 512 which respectively form a part of the base member 100A and a part of the raised member 100B. The first member 511 and the second member 512 are disposed away from the air passage AL. In other words, the first cushion member 151 is configured without the air passage AL therein.

[0197] Specifically, the first component 511 is disposed between the air passage AL and the pull-in groove GR in the left-right direction. The first component 511 is inserted into a through hole 152A formed in the second cushion component 152. The through hole 152A extends through the second cushion component 152 in a direction orthogonal to the first support surface F1. The first component 511 contacts the skin cover 108 and the support member 105.

[0198] The second member 512 is disposed on the outer side surface of the second cushion member 152 in the left-right direction. The second cushion member 152 partially extends between the second member 512 and the side frame SF.

[0199] The pad main body 150 of the twentieth embodiment has the pocket 109A embedded in the second cushion member 152 and the pocket 109B embedded in the second member 512 .

[0200] The cushion body of the twelfth embodiment achieves the following technical effects. In this configuration, even if deformation occurs in the channel embedding portion of the seat cushion C where the air channel AL is formed and where deformation may occur, the first cushion component 151 is less likely to be affected by the deformation of the channel embedding portion, which further reduces the deformation of the first cushion component 151.

[0201] In other cases, such as Fig.25 As shown, the cushion body of the twelfth embodiment may be configured without the air passage AL. Fig.24 and 25 In the position shown, the first cushion part 151 is also arranged to avoid the connection portion CN and the second support surface F2 in a similar manner to the ninth embodiment.

[0202] like Fig.25 The illustrated cushion body 150 has a pocket 109A embedded in the second cushion component 152 and a pocket 109B embedded in the first component 511 .

[0203] <Thirteenth Embodiment> like Fig.26 As shown, the cushion body 160 of the thirteenth embodiment of the present invention includes a first cushion part 161 and a second cushion part 162, the first cushion part 161 having a structure similar to the first cushion part 121 of the ninth embodiment, and the second cushion part 162 having an air passage AL formed in the second cushion part 122 of the ninth embodiment. In the thirteenth embodiment, the first cushion part 161 is away from the air passage AL in a similar manner. Although not shown in the drawings, the first cushion part 161 is also away from the second opening, which is on the side of the second cushion part 162 opposite to the user. The cushion body 160 of the thirteenth embodiment can achieve the same technical effect as the cushion body 150 of the twelfth embodiment.

[0204] The pad main body 160 of the thirteenth embodiment has a pocket 109A located inside the second cushion member 162 and a pocket 109C sandwiched between the first cushion member 161 and the second cushion member 162 .

[0205] <Fourteenth Embodiment> like Fig. 27As shown, the seat cushion C7 of the fourteenth embodiment of the present invention further includes a plurality of heaters H. Each of the plurality of heaters H is a sheet-like planar heating element. The cushion body 170 of the fourteenth embodiment has a first cushion component 171 having a structure similar to that of the first cushion component 161 of the thirteenth embodiment, and a second cushion component 172 having recesses 172A and 172B formed in the second cushion component 162 of the thirteenth embodiment.

[0206] The recessed portions 172A and 172B are formed so that the plurality of heaters H (planar heating elements) are inserted therein. The recessed portion 172A is formed in the first supporting surface F1 of the second cushion member 172. The recessed portion 172B is formed in the second supporting surface F2 of the second cushion member 172.

[0207] The plurality of heaters H are disposed between the skin cover 108 and the second cushion member 172. The user-side surface of the heater H in the recess 172A is flush with the first support surface F1. The user-side surface of the heater H in the recess 172B is flush with the second support surface F2.

[0208] The first cushion member 171 is away from the plurality of heaters H. A portion of the second cushion member 172 and a portion of the air passage AL are located between the heater H in the base member 100A and the first cushion member 171. Another portion of the second cushion member 172 is located between the heater H in the raised member 100B and the first cushion member 171. A first opening AL1 of the air passage AL is located between the recess 172A and the pull-in groove GR.

[0209] The pad main body 170 of the fourteenth embodiment has a pocket 109A located inside the second cushion member 172 and a pocket 109C sandwiched between the first cushion member 171 and the second cushion member 172 .

[0210] In the seat cushion C7 of the fourteenth embodiment, the first cushion component 171 is away from the plurality of heaters H, so the heat from the plurality of heaters H is less likely to be transferred to the first cushion component 171, which means that the first cushion component 171 is less affected by the heat from the plurality of heaters H. In addition, the air passage AL is partially located between the heaters H and the first cushion component 171, which further prevents the first cushion component 171 from being affected by the heat from the heaters H.

[0211] <Fifteenth Embodiment> like Fig.28As shown, the seat cushion C8 of the fifteenth embodiment further includes a notification device 300 for providing notification to the user and a sensor 400 for acquiring the user's body information. The notification device 300 generates vibration, sound, light or any other signal to provide notification to the user. The sensor 400 is, for example, a pressure sensor that detects pressure caused by the weight of the user. The sensor 400 may also be a seat sensor, a pulse wave sensor or a blood pressure sensor.

[0212] The pressure value detected by the sensor 400 is provided to a controller (not shown). For example, the controller sends the pressure value to a mobile terminal carried by the user. For example, the mobile terminal outputs an instruction to move the user's body on the vehicle seat S. When the user moves their body on the vehicle seat S, the mobile terminal executes an application such as a game based on the pressure value caused by the corresponding body movement. When a notification needs to be provided to the user during the application, the mobile terminal outputs a notification signal to the controller. When the notification signal is received, the controller starts the notification device 300 to provide the notification.

[0213] The cushion body 180 of the fifteenth embodiment has a first cushion part 181 having a structure similar to that of the first cushion part 171 of the fourteenth embodiment, and a second cushion part 182 having recesses 182A, 182B, and 182C formed in the second cushion part 172 of the fourteenth embodiment. The recess 182A is formed so that the sensor 400 is fitted therein. Each of the recesses 182B and 182C is formed so that the notification device 300 is fitted therein.

[0214] Recesses 182A and 182B are formed on the first support surface F1 of the second cushion member 182. Recess 182C is formed on the second support surface F2 of the second cushion member 182. Recess 182A is located between recesses 172A and 182B. Recess 182B is located between recess 182A and pull-in groove GR. Recess 182C is located laterally outside recess 172B.

[0215] The sensor 400 and the notification device 300 are placed between the skin cover 108 and the second cushion member 182. The user-side surface of the sensor 400 in the recess 182A and the user-side surface of the notification device 300 in the recess 182B are flush with the first support surface F1. The user-side surface of the notification device 300 in the recess 182C is flush with the second support surface F2.

[0216] The first cushion member 181 is away from the notification device 300. The first cushion member 181 is away from the sensor 400. A portion of the second cushion member 182 and a portion of the air passage AL are located between the notification device 300 and the first cushion member 181 on the base member 100A. A portion of the second cushion member 182 and a portion of the air passage AL are located between the sensor 400 and the first cushion member 181. A portion of the second cushion member 182 is located between the notification device 300 and the first cushion member 181 in the raised member 100B.

[0217] The pad main body 180 of the fifteenth embodiment has a pocket 109A located inside the second cushion member 182 and a pocket 109C sandwiched between the first cushion member 181 and the second cushion member 182 .

[0218] In the seat cushion C8 of the fifteenth embodiment, the first cushion component 181 is away from the notification device 300 and the sensor 400, so the heat from the notification device 300 and the sensor 400 is less likely to be transferred to the first cushion component 181, which means that the first cushion component 181 is less affected by the heat from the notification device 300 and the sensor 400.

[0219] <Sixteenth Embodiment> like Fig.29 As shown, the pad body 190 of the sixteenth embodiment of the present invention further has a third cushion part 193 in addition to the first cushion part 191 and the second cushion part 192. The first cushion part 191 and the second cushion part 192 are substantially the same as those of the fifteenth embodiment.

[0220] The first cushion member 191 has a recess 191A on a surface thereof facing the second cushion member 192. The recess 191A is located within the base member 100A.

[0221] The third cushion component 193 is made of polyurethane foam which is less deformable than the second cushion component 192. The test method for measuring the material's resistance to deformation may be the same as the test described above with respect to the eighth embodiment.

[0222] The third cushion member 193 is placed into the recess 191A. The user-side surface of the third cushion member 193 in the recess 191A is flush with the user-side surface of the first cushion member 191. The third cushion member 193 is sandwiched between the first cushion member 191 and the second cushion member 192. The third cushion member 193 is placed between the left and right pull-in grooves GR. The third cushion member 193 is laterally away from the left and right pull-in grooves GR.

[0223] The air passage AL is arranged in the left-right direction within the range of the third cushion member 193. The heater H, the notification device 300, and the sensor 400 on the base member 100A are arranged in the left-right direction within the range of the third cushion member 193.

[0224] The pad main body 190 of the sixteenth embodiment has a pocket 109A located inside the second cushion member 192 , and a pocket 109C sandwiched between the first cushion member 191 and the second cushion member 192 .

[0225] In the pad main body 190 of the sixteenth embodiment, the third cushion component 193 , which is less deformable than the second cushion component 192 , supports a portion of the first cushion component 191 , which effectively reduces deformation of the first cushion component 191 .

[0226] <Seventeenth Embodiment> like Fig.30 As shown in (a), the cushion body 200 of the seventeenth embodiment is different from the cushion body of the sixteenth embodiment in the position of the third cushion part 203. The first cushion part 201 of the seventeenth embodiment includes a portion corresponding to the base part 100A, which has a thickness smaller than that of the fifteenth embodiment. The second cushion part 202 of the seventeenth embodiment is substantially the same as the second cushion part of the fifteenth embodiment. A portion of the first cushion part 201 (i.e., the portion forming the base part 100A) is disposed between the second cushion part 202 and the third cushion part 203.

[0227] The third cushion part 203 is disposed between the first cushion part 201 and the support member 105. The third cushion part 203 contacts the first cushion part 201 and the support member 105. Left and right pull-in grooves GR are disposed within the range of the third cushion part 203 in the left-right direction.

[0228] The cushion body 200 of the seventeenth embodiment can achieve the same technical effects as the cushion body 190 of the sixteenth embodiment. In the cushion body 200 of the seventeenth embodiment, the third cushion part 203 supports the first cushion part 201 in a wider range in the left-right direction than that of the sixteenth embodiment, which effectively reduces the deformation of the first cushion part 201.

[0229] The cushion body 200 of the seventeenth embodiment includes a bag 109A located in the second cushion part 202 and a bag 109C sandwiched between the first cushion part 201 and the second cushion part 202. Fig.30 As shown in (b), the ratio of the second cushion part 202 to the entire raised part 100B may be greater than Fig.30In this case, the cushion body 200 may have only the pocket 109A located in the second cushion part 202 .

[0230] <Eighteenth Embodiment> A pad body 210 of an eighteenth embodiment will be described as a reference example of a pad body. Fig.31 As shown, the pad body 210 of the eighteenth embodiment includes a first cushion part 211 on the user side and a second cushion part 212 on the opposite side to the user, wherein the first and second cushion parts are arranged opposite to the pad body of the fifteenth embodiment.

[0231] The first cushion member 211 has substantially the same structure as the second cushion member 182 of the fifteenth embodiment. The first cushion member 211 has the first support surface F1, the second support surface F2, the pull-in groove GR, the connection portion CN, the air passage AL, and the recesses 172A, 172B, 182A to 182C as described above. The first cushion member 211 contacts the heater H, the notification device 300, and the sensor 400.

[0232] The second cushion member 212 has substantially the same structure as the first cushion member 181 of the fifteenth embodiment. The second cushion member 212 is in contact with and supported by the support member 105 and the side frame SF.

[0233] The pad main body 210 of the eighteenth embodiment has a pocket 109B located in the first cushion part 211. The pocket 109B may be located in the air passage AL.

[0234] In the pad main body 210 of the eighteenth embodiment, the first cushion component 211 is supported by the second cushion component 212 , which can reduce deformation of the first cushion component 211 .

[0235] <Nineteenth Embodiment> A pad body 220 of a nineteenth embodiment will be described as a reference example of a pad body. Fig.32 As shown, in addition to the first cushion part 221 and the second cushion part 222, the cushion body 220 of the nineteenth embodiment further includes a third cushion part 223 which is less deformable than the second cushion part 222, wherein each of the first cushion part 221 and the second cushion part 222 has the same structure as the first cushion part and the second cushion part of the eighteenth embodiment. The third cushion part 223 is disposed between the first cushion part 221 and the second cushion part 222.

[0236] The third cushion member 223 partially forms the base member 100A and the raised member 100B. The third cushion member 223 has a cross section (hereinafter also referred to as a "cross section") taken along a line perpendicular to the first support surface F1 and a line in the left-right direction, the cross section extending continuously from one end E1 to the other end (not shown) of the cushion body 220. Similarly, the first cushion member 221 and the second cushion member 222 also have respective cross sections extending continuously from one end E1 to the other end (not shown) of the cushion body 220.

[0237] The pad main body 220 of the nineteenth embodiment has a pocket 109B located inside the first cushion part 221 .

[0238] In the pad main body 220 of the nineteenth embodiment, the first cushion member 221 is supported from one end to the other end by the third cushion member 223 , which can further reduce deformation of the first cushion member 221 .

[0239] <Twentieth Embodiment> like Fig.33 As shown, the seat cushion C13 of the twentieth embodiment of the present embodiment is attached to the inner panel IP forming the vehicle door. The door includes the inner panel IP and the metal outer panel.

[0240] The seat cushion C13 has a first portion P1 forming a door lining and a second portion P2 forming an armrest. The second portion P2 protrudes from the user-side surface of the first portion P1. The seat cushion C13 has a skin cover 108, a heater H, a notification device 300, a sensor 400, an air passage AL, and a cushion body 230.

[0241] The cushion body 230 has two first cushion parts 231, a second cushion part 232 and a third cushion part 233. The second cushion part 232 has an air passage AL and a plurality of recesses so that the heater H, the notification device 300 and the sensor 400 can be placed in the corresponding recesses. The air passage AL is formed as a groove that opens laterally outward. A portion of the second cushion part 232 protrudes inward toward the seated user to form an armrest. The skin cover 108 is attached to the user-side surface of the second cushion part 232.

[0242] One of the two first cushion parts 231, which is an outer first cushion part, forms a part of the first portion P1 (door lining), and the other first cushion part, which is an inner first cushion part, partially forms the second portion P2 (armrest). The outer first cushion part 231 is located between the second cushion part 232 and the third cushion part 233. The outer first cushion part 231 covers the opening of the groove-shaped air passage AL, thereby defining a part of the air passage AL.

[0243] The inner first cushion part 231 is located inside the armrest-forming portion of the second cushion part 232. The entire surface of the inner first cushion part 231 is covered by the second cushion part 232. Both the inner and outer first cushion parts 231 are away from the heater H, the notification device 300, and the sensor 400. The third cushion part 233 is in contact with and supported by the inner panel IP.

[0244] The pad main body 230 of the twentieth embodiment has a pocket 109A located within the second cushion member 232 .

[0245] In the seat cushion C13 of the twentieth embodiment, the first cushion part 231 is sandwiched and supported by the second cushion part 232 and the third cushion part 233, which can reduce deformation of the first cushion part 231. Furthermore, the first cushion part 231 only needs to extend at least partially between the second cushion part and the third cushion part.

[0246] <Twenty-first embodiment> like Fig.34 As shown in FIGS. 34(a) and 34(b), the seat cushion C14 of the twenty-first embodiment of the present invention is attached to the seat surface 501 of the chair 500 or placed on the floor 600 so that the seat cushion C14 is used as a seat cushion of a vehicle. The seat cushion C14 has a skin cover 108, a plurality of sensors 400, and a cushion body 240.

[0247] The seat cushion C14 is provided with a controller (not shown). The controller is configured to provide a pressure value from each of the plurality of sensors 400 to the mobile terminal in the same manner as in the fifteenth embodiment.

[0248] The cushion body 240 includes a first cushion part 241 and a second cushion part 242. The second cushion part 242 has a plurality of recesses so that the sensor 400 and the first cushion part 241 can be placed in the corresponding recesses.

[0249] The sensor 400 is located on the user-side surface of the second cushion part 242. The first cushion part 241 is located on the surface of the second cushion part 242 opposite to the user. The first cushion part 241 is away from the sensor 400. The skin cover 108 covers the entire surface of the second cushion part 242.

[0250] The pad main body 240 of the twenty-first embodiment has a pocket 109A located within the second cushion member 242 .

[0251] In the pad main body 240 of the twenty-first embodiment, the first cushion part 241 is away from the sensor 400 , which prevents heat from the sensor 400 from being transferred to the first cushion part 241 .

[0252] <Twenty-second embodiment> like Fig.35 As shown, the sofa 700 is formed by a plurality of seat cushions C15 of the twenty-second embodiment. The sofa 700 includes a bottom seat cushion 710, a seat back 720, a headrest 730, a plurality of armrests 740, and a controller 750. The plurality of armrests 740 are provided on both the left and right sides of the bottom seat cushion 710. For clarity, the Fig.35 The epidermis cover is not shown.

[0253] Each of the plurality of seat cushions C15 (hereinafter also referred to as "seat cushion C15") has at least one of a heater H, a sensor 400, and an air passage AL, as well as a cushion body 250 and a skin cover (not shown) covering the entire surface of the cushion body 250. The cushion body 250 has at least one first cushion part 251 and a second cushion part 252. The first cushion part 251 is away from the heater H, the sensor 400, and the air passage AL. The heater H, the sensor 400, and the first opening AL1 of the air passage AL are arranged on the user side surface of the cushion body 250.

[0254] Specifically, the seat cushion C15 forming the bottom seat cushion 710 has a heater H and a plurality of sensors 400. The plurality of sensors 400 are located in the front portion of the pad body 250. The number of sensors 400 may be four in total, such that, for example, a pair of sensors 400 are arranged in a row in the front-rear direction on each of the left and right sides of the bottom seat cushion 710. The heater H is located behind the plurality of sensors 400.

[0255] The seat cushion C15 forming the bottom seat cushion 710 has two first cushion parts 251. One of the two first cushion parts 251 (the lower first cushion part) is located on the side of the cushion body 250 facing downward opposite to the user. The rear end of the heater H is arranged within the range of the lower first cushion part 251 in the front-to-back direction. The front end of the lower first cushion part 251 is arranged within the range of the heater H in the front-to-back direction.

[0256] The other of the two first cushion parts 251, which is the rear first cushion part, is located on the rear side of the cushion body 250. The rear first cushion part 251 is away from the upper and lower surfaces of the cushion body 250.

[0257] The seat cushion C15 forming the seat back 720 has a heater H and a sensor 400 . The sensor 400 is located above the heater H. One sensor 400 may be provided on each of the left and right portions of the seat back 720 .

[0258] The seat cushion C15 forming the seat back 720 includes three first cushion parts 251. The three first cushion parts 251 are arranged in a row in the vertical direction with gaps therebetween. The sensor 400 is at least partially located within the range of the upper first cushion parts 251 in the vertical direction. The middle cushion part 251 is located within the range of the heater H in the vertical direction. The lower cushion part 251 is at least partially located within the range of the heater H in the vertical direction.

[0259] The seat cushion C15 forming the headrest 730 has a sensor 400 and an air passage AL. The sensor 400 is located above a first opening AL1 of the air passage AL. The sensor 400 is at least partially located within the first cushion part 251 in the vertical direction. The first opening AL1 is at least partially located within the first cushion part 251 in the vertical direction.

[0260] The seat cushion C15 forming each of the plurality of armrests 740 has a heater H, a sensor 400, and an air passage AL. The heater H is located in the rear lower portion of the armrest 740. The sensor 400 is located in front of the heater H. Two sensors 400 are provided in the upper portion and the vertical middle portion of the armrest 740. The air passage AL has a first opening AL1 located above the heater H. The seat cushion C15 forming the armrest 740 has a first cushion part 251 (not shown) provided therein.

[0261] The controller 750 controls the heater H and acquires information from the sensor 400. The controller 750 may be connected to a utility power source 800 provided on a wall of a building or anywhere else.

[0262] The pad main body 250 of the twenty-second embodiment has a pocket 109A located within the second cushion member 252 .

[0263] In the seat cushion C15 of the twenty-second embodiment, the first cushion member 251 is located away from the sensor 400 or other heat generating components, which prevents heat from the sensor 400 or other components from being transferred to the first cushion member 251 .

[0264] <Twenty-third embodiment> like Fig.36 As shown, the second cushion member 262 of the twenty-third embodiment of the present invention is composed of a plurality of members formed by dividing the second cushion member 262 of the eighth embodiment into three pieces. The second cushion member 262 includes a first member 262A, a second member 262B and a third member 262C.

[0265] The first member 262A forms a portion opposite to the user of the second cushion part 262. The first member 262A has the above-mentioned recessed portion 102A. The first member 262A is in contact with and supported by the supporting member 105 and the side frame SF.

[0266] The second member 262B forms the user side portion of the base member 100A of the second cushion member 262. The second member 262B is provided so that the plurality of pockets 109 are sandwiched between the first member 262A and the second member 262B. As shown in the figure, when the plurality of pockets 109 provided in the base member 100A are located at different positions in a direction perpendicular to the first user side surface F11, the first member 262A has a contact surface that contacts the second member 262B and can be formed, for example, in a stepped manner.

[0267] The surface of the first member 262A facing the second member 262B may or may not have a recess for the bag 109. Similarly, the surface of the second member 262B facing the first member 262A may or may not have a recess for the bag 109.

[0268] The third member 262C forms the user-side portion of the raised part 100B of the second cushion part 262. The third member 262C is arranged so that the bag 109 is sandwiched between the first member 262A and the third member 262C. The surface of the first member 262A facing the third member 262C may have a recess for the bag 109, or may not have the recess. Similarly, the surface of the third member 262C facing the first member 262A may have a recess for the bag 109, or may not have the recess.

[0269] According to the twenty-third embodiment, the second cushion part 262 is configured so that the bag 109 is easily placed in the second cushion part 262. This configuration also allows the bag 109 to be easily removed from the second cushion part 262.

[0270] <Twenty-fourth embodiment> like Fig.37 As shown in (a) and 37 (b), each bag 109 has a maximum displacement portion MP. The maximum displacement portion MP is the portion of the bag 109 where the bag 109 changes from Fig.37 The first state shown in (a) switches to Fig.37 (b) The portion with the largest displacement amount in the second state. Each of the bags 109 described in the above embodiments has such a maximum displacement portion MP.

[0271] According to the twenty-fourth embodiment, each of the pockets 109 is arranged so that the maximum displacement portion MP of the pocket 109 is positioned to avoid the first cushion part 101. Specifically, the pocket 109 is arranged so that a portion of the pocket 109 is located in the first cushion part 101, and another portion of the pocket 109 is located in the second cushion part 102. The maximum displacement portion MP is located in the second cushion part 102.

[0272] According to the twenty-fourth embodiment, the maximum displacement portion MP of each of the pockets 109 is arranged to avoid the first cushion member 101 , which prevents significant deformation of the first cushion member 101 made of biomass polyurethane.

[0273] The member configured to contact the first cushion component to reduce its deformation (hereinafter also referred to as a "deformation preventing member") is not limited to the second cushion component. Although the deformation preventing member may be a material that is more likely to deform than the first cushion component, the deformation preventing member is preferably less deformable than the first cushion component. Examples of materials that are less deformable than the first cushion component include plate-shaped and rod-shaped members made of metal or plastic.

[0274] The cushion component of the present invention may be configured such that the cushion component does not include a skin cover. For example, the cushion component may consist of only a cushion body. The cushion component may form an interior component of a vehicle, rather than a door lining.

[0275] The first cushion component may be configured such that the proportion of the plant-derived material contained therein is greater than or equal to a first predetermined value (eg, 35%). The second cushion component may be configured such that the proportion of the plant-derived material contained therein is less than or equal to a second predetermined value (eg, 15%).

[0276] Any component that moves within the seat cushion (having at least a portion at which the position or shape is changeable) may be used as a movable component, and examples of movable components may include a support member that can move between a first position and a second position closer to the user than the first position. When the seat cushion includes a plurality of movable components, all movable components are preferably arranged to avoid (i.e., away from) the first cushion component.

[0277] The elements and features of the above-described embodiments may be appropriately combined with each other to produce another embodiment within the scope of the present invention. Glossary

[0278] 1Car seat (vehicle seat) 8 Seat frame 9 side members 14 Supporting members 18 Support side protrusion 21 Pad member 22 Support surface 29 Gasket side recess 38 First Line 43 Second Line 44 Incision 46 Through Holes 47 Pad side protrusion (protrusion)

Claims

1. A vehicle seat, comprising: a seat frame, which serves as a skeleton frame; a support member disposed on the seat frame and having a support surface facing upward; as well as a cushion member supported on the support member, the cushion member having a contact surface in contact with the support surface, wherein at least one of the support surface of the support member and the contact surface of the cushion member has a plurality of protrusions formed thereon and protruding toward the other of the support surface and the contact surface.

2. The vehicle seat according to claim 1, wherein: The plurality of protrusions are formed on the support surface of the support member and protrude toward the contact surface of the pad member, and Wherein, the contact surface of the pad member has a plurality of recesses formed thereon, the plurality of recesses receiving corresponding protrusions.

3. The vehicle seat according to claim 2, wherein: The plurality of protrusions extend in the left-right direction of the vehicle seat, and Each of the plurality of protrusions has a first line embedded therein.

4. The vehicle seat according to claim 3, wherein: The seat frame comprises: left and right side members spaced apart from each other; and a plurality of second wires extending in the left-right direction and connected to the left and right side members, and Wherein, the contact surface of the pad member has a plurality of cutouts formed thereon to receive corresponding second wires.

5. The vehicle seat according to claim 1, wherein: The plurality of protrusions are formed on the contact surface of the pad member and protrude toward the support member, and The supporting member has a plurality of through holes extending therethrough to receive the plurality of protrusions.

6. The vehicle seat according to claim 2, wherein: The plurality of protrusions include a plurality of elongated protrusions extending along the support surface in at least two directions that are different from each other.

7. The vehicle seat according to claim 6, wherein: Each of the plurality of protrusions has a tapered cross-sectional shape that tapers upward.

8. The vehicle seat according to claim 4, wherein: The plurality of protrusions are unevenly disposed to be distributed into a portion of the support surface of the support member. 9 . The vehicle seat of claim 3 , wherein the plurality of protrusions are integrally formed with corresponding recesses.

10. A method for manufacturing a vehicle seat, wherein: The vehicle seat comprises a seat frame serving as a skeleton frame, a support member disposed on the seat frame, and a cushion member supported on the support member, and wherein the support member has a plurality of through holes extending therethrough, the method comprising a molding step in which the cushion member and the support member are molded together as one piece, and Wherein, in the molding step, portions of the cushion member are received in corresponding through holes formed in the support member.

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