Safety belt device and vibration system thereof

Abstract

The invention provides a safety belt device and a vibration system thereof. The safety belt device and the vibration system thereof can impart comfortable skin feelings linked with various sound sources with audio as the first to an occupant. In order to achieve the above-mentioned purpose, the vibration system (100) for a seatbelt device (1) according to the present disclosure is configured so as to wind a seatbelt (2) for a vehicle, and comprises: an actuator attached to the seatbelt device (1); and a control device for processing an input signal triggered on the basis of a prescribed vibration generation to extract a rhythm component signal, performing pulse modulation processing on the basis of the difference between the rhythm component signal and a prescribed threshold value at regular intervals, and driving the actuator on the basis of the pulse-modulated signal.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a seat belt device and its vibration system. Background Technology

[0002] As a seatbelt device for vehicles, a technology has been proposed that provides vibration stimulation linked to the rhythm of music to occupants such as the driver (see, for example, Patent Document 1). In addition, there have been proposals for a device that conveys information such as alarms to occupants through tactile sensations transmitted through the skin, such as vibration and tension changes (see, for example, Patent Document 2).

[0003] Existing technical documents Patent documents Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2022-149732 Patent Document 2: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2008-044570. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The problem that the invention aims to solve However, the aforementioned traditional devices are primarily designed to provide various warnings and reminders, such as calmly informing the driver of abnormal speed changes by altering the timing of the seatbelt's vibration (Patent Document 1), or equipping the seatbelt with a warning function (Patent Document 2). In other words, no technology has yet proposed a completely new approach to repurpose the vibration-generating mechanism in a seatbelt device, such as providing occupants with a comfortable tactile experience in conjunction with various sound sources, primarily audio.

[0005] Therefore, the object of the present invention is to provide a seat belt device and its vibration system that can provide occupants with a comfortable tactile sensation in conjunction with various sound sources, primarily audio.

[0006] means for solving problems To address the aforementioned problems, one embodiment of the present invention provides a vibration system for a seatbelt device, configured to retract a vehicle seatbelt, comprising: Actuator, which is installed in the seat belt device; The control device processes an input signal triggered by a predetermined vibration to extract a rhythm component signal, performs pulse modulation processing at fixed intervals based on the difference between the rhythm component signal and a predetermined threshold, and drives an actuator based on the pulse-modulated signal.

[0007] In the vibration system of the seatbelt device described above, various vibrations, primarily those triggered by audio sources within the vehicle, can be synchronized to produce vibrations matching the so-called sound pressure level triggered by those vibrations. In this way, by generating vibrations synchronized with sound sources, a comfortable tactile sensation can be provided to the occupant. In this respect, existing technologies (such as Patent Document 1) cannot provide the occupant with a comfortable tactile sensation synchronized with sound sources; even with different music tracks, as long as the rhythm is the same, only the same vibration pattern is exhibited.

[0008] In the vibration system of the seat belt device described above, the control device may also include a low-pass filter that attenuates the high-frequency components in the input signal.

[0009] In the vibration system of the seat belt device described above, the prescribed vibration can also be triggered by an audio signal of music flowing inside the vehicle.

[0010] The vibration system of the seat belt device as described above also includes: a main shaft that winds up the seat belt; a drive motor that generates power to rotate the main shaft; and a clutch that transmits power from the drive motor to the main shaft when the drive motor rotates in one direction, or the drive motor may be used as an actuator.

[0011] As mentioned above, the drive motor in the vibration system of the seat belt device can also be a DC brushed motor.

[0012] In the vibration system of the seat belt device described above, the clutch can also be disengaged by reversing the rotation direction of the drive motor through the control device, and then the drive motor can be rotated in one direction to engage the clutch.

[0013] In the vibration system of the seat belt device described above, the clutch can also be released at the point when the drive motor stops operating based on the signal processed by pulse modulation.

[0014] The vibration system of the seat belt device described above further includes: a tongue mounted on the seat belt; a buckle configured to attach or detach the tongue; a bracket supporting the buckle; and a vibration motor mounted on the buckle, which may also be used as an actuator.

[0015] In the vibration system of the seat belt device described above, the vibration motor can also be a DC brushed motor with an eccentric counterweight.

[0016] In the vibration system of the seat belt device described above, if the signal in the rhythm component signal that exceeds a specified threshold is shorter than the specified minimum action time T_min, the control device can also add a compensation action time T_add to the signal.

[0017] In the vibration system of the seat belt device described above, if the signal in the rhythm component signal that exceeds a specified threshold is longer than the specified maximum drive time T_max, the actuator drive can also be stopped by the control device on the part of the signal that exceeds the maximum drive time T_max.

[0018] In the vibration system of the seat belt device described above, the current value applied to the vibration motor can be temporarily increased and then decreased in the initial stage when the control device drives the vibration motor according to the signal processed by pulse modulation.

[0019] In the vibration system of the seat belt device described above, a regenerative brake can also be used before stopping the vibration motor driven by the signal processed by pulse modulation.

[0020] Another aspect of the invention is a seat belt device having the vibration system described above.

[0021] Another aspect of the present invention is a seat belt device, which is a driver's seat belt device equipped with the vibration system described above. When the control device detects that the driver has pulled out the seat belt due to leaning forward, the processing of driving the actuator according to the pulse-modulated signal is stopped, the rotation direction of the drive motor is reversed to disengage the clutch, and when the driver is detected to have returned to the original posture, the drive motor is rotated in one direction to engage the clutch, and the processing of driving the actuator is restarted according to the pulse-modulated signal.

[0022] Invention Effects According to the present invention, a seat belt device and its vibration system can be provided, which can provide occupants with a comfortable tactile sensation in conjunction with various sound sources, primarily audio. Attached Figure Description

[0023] Figure 1 It is an exploded 3D view of the motor, power transmission mechanism, final drive gear, main shaft, etc.

[0024] Figure 2 This is a diagram showing the structural outline of an ECU (control unit).

[0025] Figure 3A This is a frame diagram illustrating an example of the structure of an ECU (control unit).

[0026] Figure 3B This is a diagram showing a detailed structural example of the circuit from the signal generation unit of the ECU to the motor drive circuit.

[0027] Figure 3C This diagram illustrates a method for extracting multiple frequency bands from the high-frequency domain and driving a motor with more complex rhythmic components.

[0028] Figure 3D This diagram illustrates an example of generating motor drive signals using a signal generation unit (signal processor) equipped with AI.

[0029] Figure 4 (A) is a graph showing the signal level changes of the extracted rhythm component signal after processing the input signal. Figure 4 (B) A graph showing the change in motor current after pulse modulation processing based on the difference between the rhythm component signal and a specified threshold at regular intervals. Figure 4 (C) is a graph showing the belt tension variation when driving the motor.

[0030] Figure 5 It is a graph that illustrates the pulse width modulation process while showing the rhythm component signal and the changes in motor current.

[0031] Figure 6 The compensation process for rhythm component signals that exceed a specified threshold but are relatively short is explained. Figure 6 (A) is a graph showing the signal level changes of the rhythm component signal. Figure 6 (B) is a graph showing the changes in motor current.

[0032] Figure 7 The compensation process for rhythm component signals that exceed a specified threshold for an extended period is explained. Figure 7 (A) is a graph showing the signal level changes of the rhythm component signal. Figure 7 (B) is a graph showing the changes in motor current.

[0033] Figure 8 The method for reducing commutator wear in the drive motor is explained. 8(A) is a graph showing the signal level changes of an input signal with a certain regularity. Figure 8 (B) is a graph showing the changes in motor current and the timing of the autonomous release action.

[0034] Figure 9 This diagram illustrates the vibration pattern generated by a vibrating motor mounted on the buckle when the seatbelt is not fastened.

[0035] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of a vibration motor mounted on a buckle and an ECU connected to the vibration motor.

[0036] Figure 11 An example of a motor drive that generates vibration through the rotation of an eccentric counterweight is explained. Figure 11 (A) is a graph showing the signal level changes of the rhythm component signal. Figure 11 (B) is a graph showing the changes in motor current.

[0037] Figure 12 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the control of a driver's seatbelt device.

[0038] Figure 13 This diagram illustrates another example of an input signal triggered by vibration, where one occupant connects a portable game console to the vehicle's network and enjoys the corresponding vibration, while other occupants enjoy vibrations linked to the vehicle's audio system.

[0039] Figure 14 This is a diagram illustrating other examples of actuators that generate vibrations.

[0040] Figure 15 As an example diagram, it illustrates how a seatbelt device with vibration functionality can be recognized as a game controller by a tablet or portable game console and connected via wired or wireless means to execute vibration commands in an application.

[0041] Figure 16 As an example diagram, it shows that the terminal is connected to the car audio system and recognized as a game controller, thereby enabling the sensory experience of vibration from the seatbelt device vibration system.

[0042] Figure 17 This diagram illustrates one example of a method for linking the vibration system of a seatbelt device with a movie or video feed.

[0043] Figure 18 This figure illustrates one example of a method for generating and driving signals to drive a seatbelt device vibration system by real-time analysis and recognition of images and sounds. Detailed Implementation

[0044] The preferred embodiments of the seat belt device and its vibration system according to the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings (see attached figures). Figures 1 to 14 ).

[0045] [Structural Overview of Seatbelt Retractors] First, a structural overview of the seat belt retractor 4 constituting the seat belt device 1 will be described (see reference). Figure 1 ).

[0046] The seat belt retractor 4 is a vehicle device configured to retract the seat belt 2. The seat belt retractor 4 of this embodiment is a motor-driven retractor for seat belts equipped with a motor (sometimes also called pretensioners (PP)). It retracts the seat belt 2 via motor power and is configured to include a main shaft 10, a drive motor 20, a power transmission mechanism 30, a final drive gear 33, a clutch 34, etc. (see reference). Figure 1 ).

[0047] Main shaft 10 is a component used for winding up seat belt 2, and is configured to rotate forward and backward around the central shaft (see reference). Figure 1 In addition, for convenience, in this instruction manual, the direction of rotation of the main shaft 10, etc., that is forward rotation to retract the seat belt 2 is called the "retracting direction", and the direction of reverse rotation to extend the seat belt 2 is called the "clutch release direction".

[0048] The drive motor 20 is the power source that generates the power to rotate the spindle 10. When the drive motor 20 rotates in one direction (referred to as the "first direction" in this specification), power is transmitted through the clutch 34, and the spindle 10 rotates in the winding direction. Additionally, when the motor 20 rotates in a second direction opposite to the first direction, the final drive gear 33 rotates in the clutch disengagement direction (see [reference]). Figure 1 ).

[0049] The power transmission mechanism 30 is a mechanism for transmitting power from the drive motor 20 to the main shaft 10. For example, in this embodiment, a power transmission mechanism 30 including a motor gear 31, a transmission shaft (intermediate gear) 32, a final drive gear 33, and a clutch 34 is used. The motor gear 31 is composed of a worm gear mounted on the output shaft 21 of the drive motor 20 (see reference). Figure 1 The drive shaft 32 is a component used to transmit the power of the drive motor 20 to the final drive gear 33. The drive shaft 32 is provided with a first helical gear 32a that meshes with the motor gear 31 and a second helical gear 32b that meshes with the final drive gear 33 (see reference). Figure 1 ).

[0050] The final drive gear 33 is one of the gears constituting the power transmission mechanism 30, and is composed of a large-diameter helical gear configured to rotate on the central axis of the main shaft 10. In this embodiment, the final drive gear 33 is a gear located at the end of the gear train constituting the power transmission mechanism 30. Helical teeth 33a are formed on the outer periphery of the final drive gear 33, which mesh with the second helical gear 32b of the transmission shaft 32.

[0051] Clutch 34 is a mechanism for transmitting or preventing the rotation of the final drive gears 33 to the main shaft 10, and is disposed between the final drive gears 33 and the main shaft 10 (see reference). Figure 1In this embodiment, the clutch 34 is a one-way clutch, which is engaged when the drive motor 20 rotates in the first direction, transmitting the rotation of the final drive gear 33 to the main shaft 10, and disengaged when the drive motor 20 rotates in the second direction. The structure of the one-way clutch itself is the same as that used in the existing seat belt retractor 4, so its structure will not be described in detail in this specification. For example, a structure equipped with a one-way clutch pawl (lock) 34b can be used, which only meshes with the ratchet gear 35a when the final drive gear 33 rotates in one direction (see reference). Figure 1 ).

[0052] [Seatbelt vibration system] The vibration system 100 of the seat belt device 1 of the present invention, while being triggered and linked with various vibrations, exhibits or realizes vibrations corresponding to the sound pressure level triggered by the vibration, thereby providing the occupant with a comfortable skin feel. The vibration system 100 of this embodiment includes an ECU (control device) 200 for control, which performs specific drive by applying a predetermined current to an actuator, such as a drive motor 20.

[0053] Vibration can be triggered using a variety of devices. For ease of understanding, the following will explain the case where a signal from an in-vehicle audio source is used as the vibration trigger. The in-vehicle audio source can be either a car audio system or a source transmitted wirelessly or wired from a portable device such as a music playback terminal 300 (see [reference]). Figure 2 wait).

[0054] ECU200 includes an audio I / F 210, an AD conversion signal processing unit 220, a signal mixing / selection unit 230, a signal generation unit (signal processor) 240, a comparator 250, and a motor drive circuit 260 (see reference). Figure 2 , Figure 3A ).

[0055] The audio I / F210 receives signals such as music from an audio source. The AD conversion signal processing unit 220 converts the input signal from an analog signal to a digital signal (see reference). Figure 3A The signal mixing / selection unit 230 receives digital signals from the audio I / F 210 or signals converted to digital by the AD conversion signal processing unit 220, as well as operation signals transmitted via portable devices connected wirelessly or wired, and outputs the signals after mixing or selecting them. Furthermore, the ECU 200 of this embodiment is configured to receive alarm requests from safety monitoring devices such as those indicating vehicle hazards (see reference 230). Figure 3A ).

[0056] Furthermore, the audio signal input from the audio I / F210 is not limited to in-vehicle audio; for example, it can also be a signal sent from a terminal 300 such as a portable terminal (smartphone, etc.) (see reference). Figure 2 Connection to portable terminals can be wired or wireless. In the case of an analog audio signal, if a wired connection is used, an analog-to-digital converter (AD conversion) is performed (the signal is then digitally processed by software and converted into an actuator drive signal). In the case of a digital audio signal (considering input via S / PDIF, HDMI, etc.), electrical or optical information is received, and a drive signal is generated by a decoder. Alternatively, if a wireless connection is used using Bluetooth, etc., the audio signal is read in and processed in the same way.

[0057] The signal generation unit 240 processes the signal output from the signal mixing / selection unit 230, extracts the rhythm component signal, and performs pulse modulation processing at regular intervals corresponding to the difference between the rhythm component signal and a predetermined threshold, thereby utilizing the input trigger signal as the motor drive timing. In this embodiment, the signal generation unit 240 of the ECU 200 is equipped with a low-pass filter (LPF) that attenuates high-frequency components in the input signal (see reference). Figure 3A Of course, it can also be equipped with a high-pass filter (HPF) for attenuating low-frequency components in the input signal. In addition, if an example is shown where the input signal is a music signal, the signal generation unit 240 can also be equipped with the function of reading the type information contained in digital sound sources in recent years and selecting the appropriate operation.

[0058] Here, as a specific example of the signal generation unit 240, the case of extracting the rhythm component of the signal will be explained. Figure 3B This diagram illustrates the process of extracting the bass signal component and extracting the rhythm component in a detailed structural example from the signal generation unit 240 to the motor drive circuit 260. Here, the bass component is extracted by the LPF240L, and excess DC components are attenuated by the HPF240H, thereby reducing unnecessary actions during the subsequent thresholding process. Instead of the LPF240L and HPF240H systems, a bandpass filter BPF240B (see [reference]) combining both systems can be used. Figure 3C Additionally, symbol 242 represents a rectifier, 244 represents a smoothing circuit, and 246 represents a modulation circuit (see reference). Figure 3B ).

[0059] Although the above is an example of a method that focuses solely on the rhythm of the low-frequency band for driving (see...), Figure 3BHowever, in addition to this, methods such as extracting multiple frequency bands from the high frequencies and driving them with more complex rhythmic components can also be considered (see [reference]). Figure 3C As an example of the structure of the signal generation unit 240 in this case, it is possible to consider using analog circuits to construct filters, or to process digital signals via software. Furthermore, a structure in which the ECU (control unit) 200 is implemented through software processing is also considered. For example, if... Figure 3C When the functional modules shown are composed of software, users can arbitrarily enable or disable the frequency bands used, thus allowing for adjustments according to user preferences.

[0060] Alternatively, unlike the methods described above, a signal generation unit (signal processor) 240 equipped with artificial intelligence can be used to perform pattern recognition on the input audio signal or other music, and analyze its style, rhythm, etc., thereby generating a motor drive signal (see reference). Figure 3D ).

[0061] Comparator 250 outputs a signal, for example, to drive the drive motor 20, based on the signal output from signal generation unit 240. Motor drive circuit 260 supplies, for example, a constant current (current value) to motor connection line 270 (see reference 260) based on the signal output from comparator 250. Figure 2 ).

[0062] When the drive motor 20 mounted on the seatbelt retractor 4 is a DC motor, the retracting torque of the seatbelt 2 is controlled by various gears in the power transmission mechanism 30 through the controlled applied current. However, regarding the retracting torque of the seatbelt 2, it is often difficult to generate a retracting force that varies continuously with time due to the static friction of the drive mechanism such as gears. In this respect, it is relatively easy to make the seatbelt repeatedly retract and stop momentarily from a stationary state, and thus, this action can be used to achieve a skin feel that varies continuously with time. While showing examples of waveforms, an example of signal processing when the ECU 200 performs such a vibration action is also provided (see [reference]). Figure 4 , Figure 5 The following explanation is provided. After the rhythm component signal is processed and extracted by the signal generation unit 240, pulse width modulation (PWM conversion) is performed at regular intervals corresponding to the difference between the rhythm component signal and a predetermined threshold (see reference). Figure 4 A, Figure 5In this situation, when the difference between the rhythm component signal and the threshold is large, the duty cycle of the PWM will increase accordingly, and the driving time of the drive motor 20 will also increase accordingly. On the other hand, when the difference between the rhythm component signal and the threshold is small, the duty cycle of the PWM (PWM duty cycle, i.e., motor driving time / PWM period [%)) will decrease, and the driving time of the drive motor 20 will also shorten accordingly (refer to...). Figure 4 (B) Figure 5 If the drive time of the drive motor 20 is longer, the winding amount of the seat belt 2 will be greater, and the tension of the seat belt 2 will also increase accordingly (refer to...). Figure 4 (C) In this way, by controlling the time the current flows through the drive motor 20 via PWM, the seat belt 2 can produce intermittent tension changes. For the occupant, this intermittent tension change of the seat belt 2 is perceived as a comfortable vibration linked to the rhythmic component of the sound source, or in other words, as a tactile sensation. The vibration system 100 of the seat belt device 1 that generates this vibration is particularly effective when it is triggered by vibrations that change in level over time, similar to an audio source signal.

[0063] Furthermore, if a DC brushed motor is used as the drive motor 20, which acts as the actuator for generating vibration, vibration can be generated while the ECU 200 performs a process to reduce the wear of the commutator within the drive motor 20. In the vibration system 100 of this embodiment, by reversing the drive motor 20, which is rotating in the first direction (rewinding direction), to the second direction (clutch release direction) midway through operation to disengage the clutch 34, and then smoothly rotating it back to the first direction (rewinding direction) to engage the clutch 34, the position of the brushes inside the drive motor 20 is changed, preventing the brush operating range from being concentrated in a narrow range, thereby reducing the wear of the commutator. At this time, the clutch is disengaged, preferably at a point when the tension of the seat belt 2 is not required during periods of inactivity or for a very short time. For example, when synchronizing the vibration with the signal of an audio source, if a signal with a certain regularity is input (see reference...). Figure 8 (A)) allows for operation of the drive motor 20 without causing it to vibrate (during the non-operation period), and during periods that do not affect the retraction of the seatbelt 2, for example, at Figure 8 (B) At the point indicated by the symbol "a", the action of reversing the drive motor 20 in the second direction (clutch disengagement direction) and autonomously disengaging (releasing) the clutch 34 is performed (refer to...). Figure 8 Thus, if the clutch is automatically disengaged at the point when the drive motor 20 is not activated based on the pulse-modulated signal, the retraction action of the seat belt 2 will not be affected.

[0064] [Another example of a vibration system for seat belt devices] This specification has now described an embodiment in which vibration is generated by driving the drive motor 20 that constitutes the seatbelt retractor 4. However, the actuator that generates the vibration may also be other types of motors. As another embodiment, the following will describe the case using a vibration motor 90 provided on the buckle 70 (see [reference]). Figure 9 , Figure 10 ).

[0065] The seat belt device 1 in this example includes: a tongue 2t, which is mounted on the seat belt 2; a buckle 70, configured to allow the tongue 2t to be attached and detached; a buckle bracket (support) 80, which supports the buckle 70; and a vibration motor 90, which is mounted on the buckle 70 (see reference). Figure 9 , Figure 10 The vibration motor 90 is a relatively inexpensive vibration actuator. In this embodiment, the vibration motor 90 is a DC brushed motor equipped with an eccentric counterweight, and vibration is generated by the rotation of the eccentric counterweight (see reference). Figure 10 In addition to such a motor, actuators that generate vibration through reciprocating motion can also be used. As shown in this example, when a vibration motor 90 is mounted on the buckle 70, vibration can be transmitted to the seat 5 via the buckle support 80, and it can also be used as a device to vibrate the seat 5 via an audio signal. Furthermore, even when the vehicle is parked and the seatbelt 2 is not fastened, this vibration system 100 can be used to vibrate the seat 5. Incidentally, to effectively transmit vibration, the frequency needs to be changed when the seatbelt 2 is fastened and vibration is transmitted to the user via the seatbelt, and when the seatbelt is not fastened and vibration is transmitted to the seat. The motor speed (actuator operating frequency) can be switched by informing the buckle engagement switch signal.

[0066] As described above, motors that generate vibration through the rotation of an eccentric counterweight generally emit a constant and continuous vibration. However, a certain amount of time is required from receiving a signal to generating vibration, and the vibration is difficult to stop immediately due to the inertial motion of the counterweight. In short, since such motors are not adept at generating vibrations with subtle variations, efforts must be made to improve the control method to achieve the same effect as in the case of using a drive motor 20 to drive the aforementioned seatbelt retractor 4. Considering the above aspects, in this embodiment, the ECU 200 temporarily applies a large current to the vibration motor 90 initially when driving it based on the pulse-modulated signal, and then reduces the current value to converge, thus avoiding excessive vibration amplitude (see reference). Figure 11 More specifically, in the early stages of driving, such as... Figure 11As shown by symbol b, a strong current flows through the motor for a short period of time, followed by a process to reduce the current to prevent excessive rotation, thereby eliminating the start-up delay. Furthermore, when stopping the vibration motor 90 as shown by symbol c, to address residual vibration due to the inertial motion of the counterweight, a regenerative brake can be used to stop it, making the switching on and off of vibration significantly easier.

[0067] As described above, when vibration is generated by rotating an eccentric counterweight and triggered by an in-vehicle audio source, the input signal time for the desired action may be too short, depending on the trigger source (the sound source, etc. used as the trigger). This may result in the actuator of the drive motor 20, etc., being unable to respond in time and generate sufficient vibration. Assuming this situation, in this embodiment, a minimum action time T_min is preset. If a signal in the rhythm component signal exceeding a predetermined threshold is shorter than the minimum action time T_min, the ECU 200 adds a compensation action time T_add to that signal (see [reference]). Figure 6 Therefore, even when the time axis of the signal exceeding the specified threshold in the rhythm component signal is short, the actuator can still vibrate sufficiently.

[0068] Conversely, when the time axis of the trigger signal is long (signal duration), it is possible to operate only near the peak of the desired trigger signal and then stop the drive. This approach is particularly effective when linked to music signals, where it is desirable to transmit only the peak of the rhythm as vibration to the occupants. In this embodiment, a maximum drive time T_max is preset. If a signal in the rhythm component signal that exceeds a threshold is longer than the maximum drive time T_max, the ECU 200 stops the actuator's drive on the portion of that signal that exceeds the maximum drive time T_max (see reference). Figure 7 Furthermore, if users such as occupants can change the settings of the minimum action time T_min or the maximum drive time T_max as described above from a terminal such as a portable device, then users can adjust the vibration pattern according to their own preferences.

[0069] [Example of control for driver's seatbelt device] When a driver uses a seatbelt device 1 equipped with the vibration system 100 described above, it can be difficult for the driver to assume a forward-leaning posture when the seatbelt 2 is pulled in. To improve ease of use in such situations, the following control can be implemented: when the user (in this case, the driver) applies a force in the direction of pulling out the seatbelt 2, it can be released or pulled out by the mechanism. Specific control examples will be described below (see reference). Figure 12 ).

[0070] First, using a sensor (not shown), the system monitors whether the seatbelt 2 is displaced in the pull direction due to actions such as the driver leaning forward (step SP1). If the seatbelt 2 is detected to be pulled out (step SP2 is "Yes"), the system stops the operation of the actuator (in this example, drive motor 20) based on the pulse-modulated signal via a control device such as ECU 200, and reverses the rotation direction of the drive motor 20 to disengage the clutch 34 (step SP3). Then, the system monitors whether the driver returns to the original posture using a sensor based on the movement of the seatbelt 2 (step SP4). When the driver returns to the original posture (step SP5 is "Yes"), the system rotates the drive motor 20 in one direction to quietly engage the clutch 34 (step SP6). Based on the pulse-modulated signal, the system drives the drive motor 20 in conjunction with a sound source, etc., to start vibrating again (step SP7).

[0071] [Another example of an input signal triggered by vibration] Thus far, the vibration system 100 has been described using an example of triggering vibration by in-vehicle audio signals. However, such an audio signal is only one example of vibration triggering. In other words, if the seatbelt 2 is worn independently by each occupant, it can also be used to allow each occupant to enjoy entertainment independently through tactile sensation. For example, when occupants other than the driver use internet-connected portable game consoles or smartphones to enjoy games, these devices (in...) Figure 13 (As shown in Figure 300) Connected to the in-vehicle network, the vibration system 100 of the seatbelt device 1 is triggered by vibrations generated using the game's background music or sound effects as a sound source signal, and further triggered by vibrations linked to visual elements such as visual effects. This system drives or vibrates only the occupant's seatbelt device 1, achieving an effect that only the occupant can perceive (see Figure 300). Figure 13 During this time, other occupants can still enjoy the seatbelt vibration effect linked to the corresponding sound source through the vehicle's audio system.

[0072] [Other examples of actuators that generate vibrations] So far, examples of using a drive motor 20 as an actuator and an example of using a vibration motor 90 have been shown. However, these are only preferred examples of actuators that generate vibration based on a vibration triggered by a specified vibration source signal, etc., and other types of devices can also be used. Specifically, the actuator that serves as the source of vibration or tension change can be a seatbelt retractor 4, buckle 70, tongue 2t, shoulder strap fixing seat 92 or its base (not shown), outer fixing seat 94, or an actuator that is glued, sewn, or mounted on the seatbelt (webbing) 2. Figure 14(See attached Figure 22) etc. (refer to) Figure 14 ).(exist Figure 14 In the diagram, the parts that can be equipped with such a motor are indicated by the symbol "*".

[0073] The vibration system 100 of the seatbelt device 1 according to this embodiment, as described above, is triggered and linked to various vibrations, primarily audio sources within the vehicle, and exhibits vibrations corresponding to these triggering events in each seat. In this way, by generating vibrations linked to sound sources, a comfortable tactile sensation can be provided to the occupant. In this respect, the vibration system 100 of this embodiment differs significantly from conventional technologies that use the same vibration pattern even for different music tracks, as long as the beat is the same. The seatbelt device 1, having the functions described above, can accommodate all seats regardless of their position within the vehicle.

[0074] Further functions, uses, or effects that the vibration system 100 of this embodiment can achieve are listed below.

[0075] 1) The sense of presence in entertainment can be enhanced more effectively through the seat belt device 1.

[0076] 2) The seat belt device 1 can be used as an occupant wake-up device during driving.

[0077] 3) It can be used as a more efficient vibration alarm device.

[0078] 4) Actively utilizing seat belt 2 helps to increase the wearing rate of seat belt 2.

[0079] 5) The vibration function corresponding to the vibration occurrence can be generated by either the drive motor 20 of the seat belt retractor 4 or the vibration motor 90 of the buckle 70, or by both.

[0080] 6) Even when the vehicle is stationary, the vibration of the buckle 70 can be transmitted through the seat 5.

[0081] 7) More functions can be given to seat belt 2.

[0082] 8) Seatbelt 2 is worn independently by the occupant and can therefore be used independently.

[0083] Furthermore, while the above-described embodiment is a preferred embodiment of the present invention, it is not limited thereto, and various modifications can be implemented without departing from the spirit of the present invention. For example, although not specifically illustrated, in the vibration system 100 of the seat belt device 1 described above, the ECU 200 can be substituted for signal processing, or while the ECU 200 processes signals, AI can be used to identify sound sources such as music and perform processing including modulation.

[0084] Furthermore, while vibration of the seatbelt 2 has traditionally been used as a warning signal to alert occupants (especially the driver) of potential dangers in the vehicle, recent years have seen advancements in collision safety features, including the development of hazard analysis capabilities based on the surrounding environment. Therefore, the vibration system 100, as in this embodiment, can be linked to these enhanced collision safety features, stopping entertainment-related actions such as music playback when danger approaches, or triggering an alarm vibration after the music stops, thus alerting occupants to surrounding hazards. This functionality can be achieved by utilizing alarm requests received by the signal mixing / selection unit 230 (see [reference]). Figure 3A This refers to signals that notify the vehicle of danger, which cause the vehicle-side controller (illustration omitted) and ECU200 to work together to implement the signal.

[0085] In addition, as described above, when the drive motor 20 of the seat belt retractor 4 is used as an actuator for generating vibration, a method can also be adopted to generate vibration and tension changes of the seat belt 2 by repeatedly performing the retracting / stopping action or the retracting / tension release of the seat belt 2.

[0086] Furthermore, as mentioned in the above embodiments, passengers other than the driver can play games via network-connected portable game consoles or smartphones, which will be further explained below. In recent years, terminals 300 such as operating devices (hereinafter also referred to as game controllers) capable of connecting to PCs or tablets have appeared on the market. Most of these devices are equipped with vibration devices to enhance the immersive gaming experience. When playing games using such terminals 300 in vehicles, the seatbelt device 1 with the vibration function described above can be configured to be recognized as a game controller by tablets or portable game consoles, and connected via wired or wireless means to execute vibration commands in the application (see...). Figure 15 Alternatively, one can connect the terminal 300 described above via the car audio system and have it recognized as a game controller to obtain the haptic feedback from the vibration system 100 of the seatbelt device 1 (see [reference]). Figure 16 ).

[0087] Alternatively, the vibration system 100 of the seatbelt device 1 can also be used for movie viewing and video applications. For example, the movements of characters or vehicles, being grabbed, being hit, the flow of light / air / water, and emotions (surprise, tension, etc.) in a film can be reproduced through the vibration or tension changes of the seatbelt device 1. Although these changes can be slow or rapid, multiple pre-set contents that can be associated with the descriptions in the film can be implemented based on the gentle or rapid tension changes of the seatbelt device 1, and then linked together when the film software is played. As a method for linking actions, a method similar to that used in the aforementioned game, where signals contained in the software are directly read to perform actions, can be considered (see [reference]). Figure 17 ), or methods for real-time analysis and recognition of images and sounds to generate vibration signals, etc. (see Figure 18 ).

[0088] Industrial availability This invention applies to seat belt devices and their vibration systems.

[0089] Symbol Explanation 1…Seat belt device 2…Seat belt 2t…tongue plate 4…seat belt retractor 5…seat 10…spindle 20…Drive motor (actuator) 21…Output shaft 22…Drive motor (actuator) 30…Power transmission mechanism 31…Motor gear 32…Drive shaft 32a…First helical gear 32b…Second helical gear 33… Final drive gear (first rotating gear) 33a…helical gear 34…clutch 34b…Pawl for one-way clutch 35a…Ratchet gear 70…with buckle 80…with buckle bracket (support) 90…Vibration motor (actuator) 92…Shoulder strap retainer 94…Outer fixing seat 100…Vibration system 200…ECU (Control Unit) 210…Audio I / F 220…AD conversion signal processing unit 230…Signal mixing / selection unit 240…Signal Generation Unit 240B…BPF 240H…HPF 240L…LPF 242…Rectifier 244…Smoothing Circuit 246…Modulation circuit 250…Comparator 260…Motor drive circuit 270…Motor connection wire 300…game consoles and other terminals T_min…minimum action time T_add…compensation action time T_max…maximum drive time

Claims

1. A vibration system of a seat belt device configured to roll up a seat belt for a vehicle, comprising: an actuator mounted to the seat belt device; a control device that processes an input signal based on a prescribed vibration occurrence trigger to extract a rhythm component signal, and performs a pulse modulation process every fixed period according to a difference between the rhythm component signal and a prescribed threshold, and drives the actuator based on a signal after the pulse modulation process.

2. The vibration system of the seat belt device according to claim 1, wherein the control device has a low-pass filter that attenuates a high frequency component in the input signal.

3. The vibration system of the seat belt device according to claim 2, wherein the prescribed vibration occurrence trigger is an audio signal of music flowing in a vehicle cabin.

4. The vibration system of the seat belt device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the vibration system of the seat belt device further comprises: a main shaft that rolls up the seat belt; a drive motor that generates power that rotates the main shaft; and a clutch that transmits power transmitted from the drive motor to the main shaft when the drive motor rotates in one direction, and uses the drive motor as the actuator.

5. The vibration system of the seat belt device according to claim 4, wherein the drive motor is a direct current brush motor.

6. The vibration system of the seat belt device according to claim 5, wherein the clutch is released by the control device reversing a rotation direction of the drive motor, and then the clutch is brought into a connected state by rotating the drive motor in one direction.

7. The vibration system of the seat belt device according to claim 6, wherein the clutch is released at a point in time when the drive motor is not operated based on the signal after the pulse modulation process.

8. The vibration system of the seat belt device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the vibration system of the seat belt device further comprises: a tongue mounted to the seat belt; a buckle configured to attach and detach the tongue; a bracket that supports the buckle; and a vibration motor provided on the buckle, and using the motor as the actuator.

9. The vibration system of the seat belt device according to claim 8, wherein the vibration motor is a direct current brush motor having an eccentric weight.

10. The vibration system of the seat belt device according to claim 9, wherein a compensation operation time T_add is added to a signal in which the rhythm component signal exceeds the prescribed threshold for less than a prescribed minimum operation time T_min by the control device.

11. The vibration system of the seat belt device according to claim 9, wherein the drive of the actuator is stopped in a portion of a signal in which the rhythm component signal exceeds the prescribed threshold for more than a prescribed maximum drive time T_max by the control device.

12. The vibration system of the seat belt device according to claim 9, wherein ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ The control device temporarily increases the current value applied to the vibration motor at the initial stage of driving the vibration motor based on the signal after the pulse modulation processing, and then decreases the current value.

13. The vibration system of the seat belt apparatus according to claim 9, Before stopping the vibration motor driven based on the signal after the pulse modulation processing, a regenerative brake is used.

14. A seat belt apparatus provided with the vibration system according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

15. A seat belt apparatus for a driver's seat provided with the vibration system according to claim 4, wherein In a case where the control device detects that the driver has pulled out the seat belt due to forward leaning or the like, a process of driving the actuator based on the signal after the pulse modulation processing is stopped, the rotation direction of the drive motor is reversed to release the clutch, in a case where it is detected that the driver has returned to the original posture, the drive motor is caused to rotate in one direction to bring the clutch into a connected state, and a process of driving the actuator based on the signal after the pulse modulation processing is restarted.

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