Scalable posture support system in a vehicle seat

Abstract

A method and system for assisting in correcting the posture of an occupant of a vehicle seat (11) comprising: a. collecting as input signals from a set of sensors (12) of the posture of the occupant of the seat; b. calculating one or more comfort indices by implementing at least one algorithm; c. comparing each of the comfort indices of the set with at least one respective reference value; d. generating as output at least one signal intended for a user interface (16) when one of the reference values is reached by the respective comfort index, said signal being dependent on pre-recorded parameters specific to said occupant. Abstract figure: Figure 1

Description

Title of the invention: Evolutionary posture assistance system in a vehicle seat Technical field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to the field of on-board vehicle systems. Prior art

[0002] It is known to equip vehicle seats with sensors capable of determining information on the posture of their occupants, in particular to detect postures inappropriate to a situation and correct them quickly. Application FR2101745 filed on February 23, 2021 in the name of the applicant describes, for example, a solution for monitoring the rotation of the trunk of a vehicle occupant. Application FR2211316 filed on October 28, 2022 in the name of the applicant describes a solution for alerting a user in the event of incorrect posture of a vehicle occupant.

[0003] Correcting the posture of an occupant of a vehicle seat generally aims to ensure the proper functioning of safety systems in the event of an incident, such as a seat belt and airbags in a motor vehicle for example. This also helps the occupant to avoid a posture likely to promote, in the longer term, the onset of disorders or pain. When the occupant of the seat is also one of the drivers of the vehicle, limiting the occurrence of disorders, or even more simply fatigue, leads to improving the safety of all occupants of the vehicle and of people nearby.

[0004] However, known systems are designed to provide predetermined information based on each detected situation. Therefore, even if the user considers the information incorrect or irrelevant, he or she will receive the same predetermined information again each time the same situation is detected by the system. When such systems are too rigid and perceived as repetitive for users, the latter may try to deactivate, bypass or ignore the system. This can generate particularly dangerous situations, which is counterproductive. Systems that are too rigid may, in certain situations, produce effects contrary to their purpose or give a sense of security that is distorted compared to reality. In essence, existing or envisaged systems adapt poorly to human expectations which are, by nature, varied from one user to another and variable over time for each user.

[0005] On the other hand, known systems are designed to alert the user as soon as an incorrect posture is detected. This can result in a large number of alerts and a perception by the user of an intrusive or oppressive system. The user may, in these cases also, seek to disable, bypass or ignore the system. A solution to the above has been considered by the applicant: limiting the issuance of an alert to situations in which an anomaly is detected, continuously, over a period of a few minutes. Such a solution is not entirely satisfactory because it is perceived as erratic by users who expect to receive information in real time, which leads to the same rejection of the system by users.

[0006] In essence, existing or envisaged systems adapt poorly to human expectations which vary from one user to another and vary over time for each user. Summary

[0007] The present disclosure improves the situation.

[0008] A method for assisting in correcting the posture of an occupant of a vehicle seat is provided. The method comprises: a. collecting input signals from a set of sensors, said sensors being jointly arranged so as to detect the posture of the occupant of the seat; b. for each time step t at least, calculate, based on the collected signals, a set of one or more comfort indices by implementing at least one algorithm; c. compare each of the game comfort index(es) to at least one respective reference value; d. generate at least one output signal to a user interface when one of the reference values is reached by the respective comfort index, said signal being selected from several possible signals according to pre-recorded parameters specific to said occupant; e. upon receipt of a command received from said user interface in response to the generated signal, update the pre-recorded parameters specific to said occupant.

[0009] According to another aspect, there is provided an on-board vehicle system comprising: - a seat capable of receiving an occupant of the vehicle; - a set of sensors jointly arranged so as to detect the posture of the occupant of the seat and at least some of which are integrated into the seat; - a user interface capable of receiving commands from a user and transmitting information to the user; and - a controller capable of receiving as input signals from the set of sensors and commands from the user interface, and of generating as output signals intended for the user interface. The controller is further configured to implement a method defined herein.

[0010] The characteristics set out in the following paragraphs may, optionally, be implemented, independently of each other or in com- combination with each other:

[0011] The method further comprises: generate at least one output signal for actuating a vehicle equipment item so as to implement a countermeasure when one of the reference values is reached by the respective comfort index.

[0012] The method further comprises: e. upon receipt of a command received from said user interface in response to the generated signal, and based on said received command, update at least one behavioral parameter among the pre-recorded parameters specific to said occupant.

[0013] At least one reference value is a function of pre-recorded parameters specific to said occupant. The method can therefore adapt to each potential occupant.

[0014] The series of operations is repeated at least once. The method can therefore be iterative and implemented substantially continuously.

[0015] The values of the comfort indices and / or the reference values change over time t, so that exceeding a reference value can occur in a situation in which the signals from the set of sensors correspond to the absence of detection of change in the posture of the occupant over time t. The method also takes into account the harmful effect of a posture that is too fixed.

[0016] According to another aspect, there is provided a method for assisting in correcting the posture of an occupant of a vehicle seat comprising: a. collecting input signals from a set of sensors, said sensors being jointly arranged so as to detect the posture of the occupant of the seat; b. for each time step t at least, calculate, based on the collected signals, a set of one or more comfort indices by implementing at least one algorithm; c. comparing each of the game comfort index(es) to at least one first reference value and at least one second reference value; d. generate at least one first alert signal at the output to a first alert device when the first reference value is reached by a first predetermined comfort index of said game; e. generate at least one second alert signal at the output to the first alert device and / or a second alert device when the second reference value is reached by the first predetermined comfort index and / or a second predetermined comfort index of said set. Optionally, the values of the comfort indices and / or the values of the first and second reference values change with time t, such that reaching the first reference value or the second reference value may occur in a situation in which the signals from the set of sensors correspond to the absence of detecting changes in occupant posture over time t.

[0017] The features set out in the following paragraphs may, optionally, be implemented, independently of one another or in combination with one another:

[0018] The set of one or more calculated comfort indices includes: - an instantaneous comfort index, compared to the first reference value, and - a combined comfort index corresponding to the combination of one or more instantaneous comfort indices from several previous time steps, compared to the second reference value, such that the first alert signal is generated substantially in real time while the generation of the second alert signal is delayed. This allows for providing near real-time information to the user when they want it, for example when they try to change their posture, while avoiding irrelevant alerts being generated at the slightest movement of the occupant.

[0019] The combined comfort index corresponding to the combination of one or more instantaneous comfort indices from several previous time steps extends over a total period of time between 1 and 30 minutes, and preferably between 5 and 20 minutes. Such an order of magnitude of the sliding window studied has shown good results.

[0020] The method further comprises: f. interrupt or keep inactive the first alert signal and the second alert signal when the first predetermined comfort index ceases to reach the first reference value, so that both signals are stopped substantially in real time. This helps avoid maintaining unpleasant alerts even when the situation has been quickly corrected by the occupant.

[0021] The first reference value and the second reference value are different from each other, so that the generation of the first alert signal and the generation of the second alert signal are distinguished by quantitative differences in the set of one or more comfort indices. This excludes special cases where two strictly identical references would be used.

[0022] According to another aspect, there is provided an on-board vehicle system comprising: - a seat capable of receiving an occupant of the vehicle; - a set of sensors jointly arranged so as to detect the posture of the occupant of the seat and at least some of which are integrated into the seat; - a first alert device and a second alert device; and - a controller capable of receiving input signals from the set of sensors and generating at least one first alert signal to the first alert device and a second alert signal to the second alert device as output. The controller is further configured to implement a method defined above.

[0023] According to another aspect, there is provided a computer program comprising instructions for implementing all or part of a method as defined herein when this program is executed by a processor. According to another aspect, there is provided a non-transitory, computer-readable recording medium on which such a program is recorded. Brief description of the drawings

[0024] Other characteristics, details and advantages will appear on reading the detailed description below, and on analyzing the attached drawings, in which: Fig.l

[0025] [Fig.l] schematically represents a system intended to be embedded in a vehicle. Fig. 2

[0026] [Fig.2] shows a diagram of the implementation of a method according to a mode of rea lization. Fig. 3

[0027] [Fig.3] shows an example of rendering an alert generated for an occupant of a vehicle seat with a visual representation of an alert indicating an excessively curved and dangerous posture of the spine. Fig. 4

[0028] [Fig.4] shows an example of rendering an alert generated for an occupant of a vehicle seat with a visual representation of an alert indicating an excessively curved but not immediately dangerous posture of the spine. Fig. 5

[0029] [Fig.5] shows an example of rendering in the absence of an alert generated for a occupant of a vehicle seat with a visual representation of correct spinal posture. Fig. 6

[0030] [Fig.6] shows an example of rendering to an occupant of a seat of vehicle with a visual representation of various cues relating to the occupant's posture. Fig. 7

[0031] [Fig.7] shows an example of rendering to an occupant of a seat of vehicle with a visual representation of an overall comfort index partly su- upper and several specific indices in the lower part. Fig. 8

[0032] [Fig.8] shows an example of the type of alerts that can be generated depending on the situations regarding the postures detected. Fig. 9

[0033] [Fig.9] shows an example of implementing one type of alert over time. Fig. 10

[0034] [Fig. 10] shows an example scenario of the evolution of the alerts generated. Fig. 11

[0035] [Fig. 11] shows an example of implementation of an embodiment of a driving assistance method. Fig. 12

[0036] [Fig. 12] shows the evolution over time of a set of indices during an experiment. Description of the embodiments

[0037] It is specified that, in the present document and in the context of vehicle seats, the term "comfort" is used in a sense aimed at improving the health and safety of humans, and not only in its subjective sense of "pleasure" or "pleasant". In other words, the goal is indeed to improve safety in the field of passenger transport. Improving the feeling of the occupant of a seat may be an additional, but secondary, advantage. In the present document, the "occupant" designates the person installed in the seat and whose posture is monitored, while the "user" rather designates a person who is the target of alerts and information. Depending on the application context, the occupant and the user may, or may not, be the same person.It is also specified that, in the present document, the term "controller" is used in its general sense of a device capable of processing data, such as a system of software components capable of interacting to implement a computer process. Thus, the controller may for example take the form of an integrated circuit (or "ASIC" for "Application-Specific Integrated Circuit"), an electronic control unit (or "ECU" for "Electronic Control Unit"), a processor (or "Central Processing Unit" or "CPU" for "Central Processing Unit") or a combination of several of the aforementioned elements. In particular, the controller may form an independent component or be a function integrated into an on-board computer among other functions implemented by the on-board computer. The controller is therefore defined here by its function and what it is configured for rather than by its physical structure.

[0038] Reference is now made to [Fig.l]. [Fig.l] represents a system 1 mounted in a vehicle, or intended to be. In the example described here, the system 1 comprises: - a seat 11; - a set of 12 sensors; - a first alert device 13i and a second alert device 132; and - a controller 14; - a 16 user interface. The outputs of the sensors 12 are connected to an input of the controller 14 while an output of the controller 14 is connected to the input of the alert devices 13i, 132 and the user interface 16. The user interface 16 is also connected to an input of the controller 14.

[0039] The seat 11 is capable of receiving an occupant of the vehicle, for example a driver, a pilot or a passenger. In the example described here, the seat 11 comprises a seat 111, a backrest 112 and a headrest 113. The seat 11 is further equipped with a set of moving parts and adjustment controls, not shown in [Fig.l], mutually arranged to allow the position and orientation of the seat 11 to be modified relative to its environment (the rest of the vehicle), and also to modify the position and orientation of the parts composing the seat 11 relative to each other. Generally speaking, such adjustments make it possible to modify the configuration of the seat 11 at will to help the occupant adopt a desired posture.

[0040] The sensors of the sensor set 12 are jointly arranged so as to detect the posture of the occupant of the seat. At least some of the sensors are integrated into the seat 11. The nature, number and position of the sensors may vary from one embodiment to another, in particular depending on the intended context of use and the compromise between the desired precision and the manufacturing and implementation costs of such a system. Examples of sensors that may be included in the sensor set 12 are given below.

[0041] A pressure sensor is generally inexpensive. It can be integrated into one or more parts of the seat 11 such as the seat 111, the backrest 112, the headrest 113 and / or an armrest.

[0042] A temperature sensor indirectly allows the posture of the occupant to be deduced by detecting the body heat released by the latter. Through the effect of thermal inertia, temperature sensors also allow the prolonged presence of a part of the occupant's body to be distinguished from a brief positioning or movement. This is valid independently of any possible indexing of the measurements from the sensors with a time reference. In other words, when the output signal of a temperature sensor exceeds a predetermined temperature value, it is possible to deduce the presence of a part of the occupant's body at proximity for a duration greater than a few seconds or minutes, even in the absence of a history of past measurements.

[0043] A humidity sensor makes it possible in particular to deduce discomfort by detecting abnormally high humidity typically resulting from the occupant's sweating. As with the temperature sensor, a humidity sensor facilitates the distinction between the prolonged presence of a part of the occupant's body and brief positioning or movement.

[0044] The interdigital capacitive sensors, due to their finesse and flexibility, are particularly suitable for being integrated into the seat 11, typically under a surface layer, for example made of fabric. The interdigital capacitive sensors can be arranged as close as possible to the occupant without being a nuisance for said occupant.

[0045] Hall effect sensors are particularly precise and robust, and therefore reliable. Being by nature sensitive to magnetic fields, they can in particular be used to measure the relative position (or orientation) between two metal parts of the seat 11 or between a metal part of the seat 11 and a metal part of the vehicle separate from the seat. Measuring such positions makes it possible to deduce information on the posture of the occupant.

[0046] A video sensor, of a different nature from that of the previous examples, may be arranged to capture an image of at least part of the occupant of the seat 11, for example the upper part, above the waist. Such a video sensor then includes a hardware part, for example a camera, and a software part, for example an image analysis module 15. The camera is then connected at the output to the image analysis module 15 to process the video signal. The video signal is converted into digital data representative of the posture of the occupant. The image analysis module 15 may be integrated into the video sensor itself or be separate, for example forming part of a computer, such as the controller 14 and / or an on-board computer of the vehicle.

[0047] Depending on their integration into the environment, the sensors of the sensor set 12 can perform various functions. Whether it is of the nature of one of the preceding examples or another, each sensor can be for example: - a position and / or orientation sensor of a first part of the seat 11 relative to a second part of the seat 11; - a position and / or orientation sensor of a part of the seat 11 relative to a part of the vehicle separate from the seat 11.

[0048] Some of the sensors may further be associated with parts of the vehicle other than the seat 11 to deduce information on the posture of the occupant. For example, in the context of an automobile, the set of sensors 12 may comprise a sensor for the position and / or orientation of a steering wheel, a seat belt attachment safety or a mirror (or "rearview mirror") of the vehicle. In addition, certain sensors can be integrated into a human-machine interface and take, for example, the form of a button, physical or virtual, allowing a user to transmit, by a voluntary action, information relating to their posture in the seat.

[0049] Each of the alert devices 13b 132 is capable of emitting an alert perceptible by at least one occupant of the vehicle. Although referred to as an alert in the singular, each alert device 13h 132 may also be capable of emitting a plurality of alerts. Each alert device 13h 132 is configured to emit the alert upon receipt of a control signal, or alert signal respectively SIG1 and SIG2, from the controller 14. The alert may be binary, such that it is emitted upon receipt of the alert signal SIG1, SIG2 and is not emitted in the absence of reception of the alert signal. The alert may, alternatively, have a variety of forms or a combination of forms which depend on the alert signal SIG1, SIG2 received and therefore, as will be described below, on the results of the computer method implemented by the controller 14.A composite alert can thus transmit a wide variety of information to the user, as will be exemplified below.

[0050] Each alert device 13i, 132 may generate, for example, a visual alert. The alert device 13 may comprise, for example, a warning light or a combination of warning lights whose lighting corresponds to one or more distinct alerts. Alternatively, a visual alert may be generated via a display screen, or a portion of a screen, visible to an occupant of the vehicle. Examples of such displays are shown in [Fig.3], [Fig.4], [Fig.5], [Fig.6] and [Fig.7]. Of course, the content of the display may be supplemented with other information intended for the occupants of the vehicle. In particular, the alert may constitute one piece of information among others displayed on the screen: the display of the alert is, for example, one component among others that an on-board computer makes available to the occupants.

[0051] In order to limit visual distractions, which is particularly important when the occupant is also a driver or pilot, the visual alerts may be supplemented or replaced by other types of alerts, for example audible or haptic. For this purpose, each alert device 13i, 132 may for example: - include a loudspeaker and be controlled to emit a sound or voice message as an alert; and / or - include one or more vibrators, for example integrated into the seat 11, activating to form an alert.

[0052] In the application examples described below, it is considered that the first alert device 13i comprises a screen capable of displaying visual alerts while the second alert device 132 comprises a loudspeaker capable of emitting audible alerts. This example is particularly suited to a context of use in which it is considered that the first alert device 13i is rather intended to inform a user in real time and discreetly, while the second alert device 132 is rather intended to attract the user's attention after a time delay and in a more ostentatious manner. Indeed, the user can, at will, consult the information with his eyes or ignore it while it is more difficult for him to ignore an audible alert.

[0053] It will be understood that the alert devices 13h 132 have the technical function of alerting and informing, and that the examples of alert devices 13i, 132 above are illustrative and not limiting. The ways in which the information or alerts can be presented to users are almost infinite and are not, as such, the subject of the improvement described here.

[0054] In embodiments, one or both of the alert devices 13i, 132 may constitute a subset of the user interface 16, for example a touch screen integrated into a dashboard. Thus, the alerts may take the form of a display on the screen, integrated with other information displayed on the screen.

[0055] The controller 14 is capable of receiving signals from the set of sensors 12 as input and of generating at least one signal as output for one and / or the other of the alert devices 13i, 132. The controller 14 is capable of receiving signals from the user interface 16 as input and of generating at least one signal, carrying information, as output for the user interface 16. The controller 14 is further capable of transmitting control signals to other possible equipment of the vehicle.

[0056] In embodiments, at least part of the hardware resources of the controller 14 (computation and / or memory) may be distinct and remote from the vehicle. In other words, the method described below may be implemented, in part, remotely. The set of sensors 12 and the alert devices 13b 132 may be connected to the controller 14 via communication networks. In particular in usage contexts for which latency is not a critical parameter, the implementation of a remote controller 14 allows optimization of resources: a single controller may be used in combination with a plurality of sets of sensors and alert devices embedded in a plurality of vehicles. Such network operation also facilitates the analysis of the data obtained and the improvement of the models implemented.

[0057] The user interface 16, or “HMI” for Human-Machine Interface, designates any module which allows an exchange, in both directions, between the controller 14 and a user. The example of a touch screen, possibly associated with a microphone and a loudspeaker, is suitable for most usage contexts, in particular because it is standard equipment, which eliminates the need to add hardware components specific to system 1.

[0058] The system 1 may be integrated, in the sense that at least some of these hardware components are shared with other systems of the vehicle and that it is generally installed during the manufacture or assembly of the vehicle in the factory. Alternatively, the system 1 may be reported in the sense that it is added to a pre-existing vehicle.

[0059] Reference is now made to [Fig. 2]. [Fig. 2] is a functional diagram of an embodiment of a method, implemented by a controller, for assisting in correcting the posture of an occupant of a vehicle seat. In the following, the numerical references used in reference to [Fig. 1] are reused to designate elements which may be similar. In particular, the method may be implemented by the controller 14 described above.

[0060] In a first operation 1001, signals from a set of sensors 12 are collected. Thus, the controller 14 receives as input the signals from the sensors and can use the data carried by these signals to deduce information on the posture of the occupant. In the example described here, the signals obtained are raw and processed by the controller 14. Alternatively, intermediate processing of the signals can be carried out upstream of reception by the controller 14. In an embodiment comprising a video sensor as described above, an image analysis module 15 can come into action and process the video signal at the output of the video sensor and upstream of the controller 14.

[0061] When at least one of the signals from the set of sensors is a video signal, the method may optionally comprise, before the calculation of the comfort indices Ci>t, C i>T described below: al. carry out an analysis of images from the video signal so as to convert the video signal into digital data representative of the posture of the seat occupant.

[0062] The use of a video sensor makes it possible to detect a large number of parameters relating to posture. The use of such a sensor can therefore replace or complement a large number of other sensors while providing sometimes more reliable and precise measurements and data. In addition, such a video sensor is already available in certain vehicles for other functions.

[0063] In a second operation 1002, a set C of one or more comfort indices Cijt , is calculated for each time step t by implementing at least one algorithm. The calculation is a function, at least, of the signals collected during the first operation 1001. In other words, the data drawn from the signals received from the occupant posture sensors 12 are at least partly inputs, parameters or variables of the algorithms implemented during the second operation 1002. Each comfort index Ci>t is calculated by implementing at least one algorithm. In the example described below, each comfort index Ci>t is calculated by implementing an algorithm different from those implemented for the other comfort indices Cjjt, Ck.t, etc. For each comfort index Ci>t, a value is calculated for each time step t.

[0064] In embodiments, the time t is itself also a parameter for calculating a comfort index Cijt. In other words, the value of the comfort index Ci>t is dependent both on the posture of the occupant as detected by the sensors 12 and also dependent on time. Thus, the value of the comfort index Ci>t changes from one time step t to the next t+1 (is not constant), even though the posture of the occupant does not change from the time step t to the next t+1, for example because the occupant is immobile in the seat.

[0065] We now give some examples of indices Ci that it is relevant to calculate and examples of corresponding calculation algorithms. It will be noted that the first two examples that follow are dependent on the passage of time.

[0066] A first example of an index, indexed i = 1, is representative of the comfort related to the time spent by the occupant in the seat: Ci,t. Such an index can be constructed to reduce as the occupant spends time in the seat and be reset when the occupant places himself in the seat. The decrease in the index can be linear with respect to time. The index Ci,t can for example be calculated according to the following formula [Math. 1].

[0067] [Math.l] CV = C yjni[ - F x(t -

[0068] Ci_init being a predetermined initial or ideal value of the index, for example each Ci_init value of the indices C; described here is fixed at 80; F being a constant factor, for example equal to 29 / 5400; t being the current date; tstop being the date the occupant was installed in the seat, determined based on signals from the sensors.

[0069] A second example of an index, indexed i = 2, is representative of the comfort related to the time spent by the occupant in a fixed posture: C2,t. Such an index can be constructed to reduce as the occupant remains fixed (immobile) and to be reset when the occupant changes posture in the seat. The decrease in the index can be linear with respect to time. The index C2jt can for example be calculated according to the following formula [Math. 2].

[0070] [Math.2] ^27 = ^2 mit ~ EXZ X.(t - tstop)

[0071] C2_init being a predetermined initial value of the index; E being a constant factor, for example equal to 1.6 F; z being the proportion of time spent in a fixed posture compared to the time spent in the seat since the occupant was installed in the seat, for example calculated according to the equation [Math. 3] below, a fixed posture being distinguished from the others according to the signals from the sensors.

[0072] [Math.3] cumulative duration in frozen posture [Math.3] (t-htop)-cumulative duration in motion or in a non-condom posture

[0073] A third example of an index, indexed i = 3, is representative of the comfort linked to the position of the occupant's pelvis in the seat, or of the discomfort linked to the drift of the occupant's pelvis in the seat: C3. In the example described here, the index C3 is a discrete value, which varies according to the position of the occupant's pelvis in the seat. Alternatively, the index C3 can be a Boolean, i.e. have a fixed value when the position of the pelvis is compliant and another fixed value otherwise. In the example described here, the index C3 can for example be calculated according to the following formula [Math. 4].

[0074] [Math.4]

[0075] C3 init being a predetermined value of the index corresponding to a position of the occupant's pelvis in the seat, considered ideal; A being a constant factor, for example equal to 10 / (7200*10); W being a value of the drift of the occupant's pelvis relative to a position considered ideal and determined from the signals from the sensors.

[0076] A fourth example of an index, indexed i = 4, is representative of the comfort linked to the curvature of the occupant's back in the seat, or of the discomfort linked to the curvature of the occupant's back in the seat: C4. In the example described here, the index C4 is a discrete value, which varies according to the curvature of the occupant's back in the seat. Alternatively, the index C4 can be a Boolean, i.e. have a fixed value when the curvature of the back is compliant and another fixed value otherwise. In the example described here, the index C4 can for example be calculated according to the following formula [Math. 5].

[0077] [Math.5] C4 — -BxX

[0078] C4_init being a predetermined value of the index corresponding to a curvature of the back of the occupant in the seat, considered ideal; B being a constant factor, for example equal to 10 / (7200*10); X being a value of the curvature of the occupant's back relative to a curvature considered ideal and determined from the signals from the sensors.

[0079] In the preceding examples, four indices are provided. Alternatively, the number of indices may be different, for example between one and ten.

[0080] In embodiments, it is desirable to personalize the behavior of the system, i.e. to ensure that the implemented method adapts according to the occupant and / or the user. For this purpose, a “profile”, i.e. a set of personalized data specific to each potential occupant / user, can be previously collected (recorded) and then made available to the controller 14. The controller 14 then has pre-recorded parameters specific to the occupant. In the following, the term “profile” is used to designate such a set of parameters. A profile can include in particular two types of parameters: behavioral parameters and non-behavioral parameters. Among the non-behavioral parameters, we can cite for example anthropometric, physiological, pathological parameters, an age and a sex of the occupant.In the present context, anthropometric parameters may include morphological parameters such as weight and / or body dimensions. Physiological parameters include, for example, body temperatures, humidity, heart rate and / or an indicator of whether the occupant is pregnant or not. Non-behavioral parameters may further include subjective data, for example: . - a duration of occupation of a seat at the end of which the occupant generally considers feeling discomfort or pain; - a list of areas or parts of the body usually subject to discomfort or pain (neck, upper back, lower back, pelvis, legs, wrists, etc.); - a list of countermeasures that the occupant declares himself ready to receive or implement (break, massage of one or more parts of the body, stretching, relaxation, breathing exercises, etc.), - occupant / user preferences. Among the behavioral parameters, we can cite for example: - the predetermined initial values Ci_init; - reference values CijRef, Ci>Refi, CijRef2 described below; - the calculation variables W, X and z; - the values of the comfort indices Cijt, CijT.

[0081] The customized data may be used in various ways as parameters to customize the process and behavior of the system. In the preceding examples of indices, as in others not described, it is possible to update behavioral parameters such as the predetermined initial values Ci_init. In other words, the Ci_init values can be both specific to the occupant and evolving, i.e. updated by the system itself. The value of Ci_init can thus vary from one occupant to another and as the process is implemented. Conversely, non-behavioral parameters, such as morphological parameters for example, are not intended to be updated by the implementation of the process. Finally, before implementation of the process, the behavioral parameters can take default values, for example calculated from the values of the non-behavioral parameters.

[0082] A set C of one or more comfort indices Ci>t for the time step t may also comprise a comfort index which is itself a combination of other comfort indices Ci>t of the same time step t. For example, an overall comfort index CGjt may be calculated as a combination of comfort indices Ci>t among those described above. In the example described here, the overall comfort index CG,t is calculated as a sum or an average, weighted or not, of the indices defined above. The overall comfort index CGjt may for example be calculated according to the following formula [Math. 6].

[0083] [Math.6] X-7T

[0084] N being the number of indices involved in the calculation of the overall comfort index, with n = 4 in this example, and a; being a weighting coefficient (the weighting coefficients can all be equal).

[0085] The above calculation formula corresponds to an embodiment of an unweighted sum (or, equivalently, with equal weightings from one index to another). Alternatively, weightings specific to each index may be applied. In particular, the weighting coefficients may be set by default or depend on personalized data. Thus, if an occupant indicates, via the user interface 16, that they are particularly sensitive or subject to back pain, the weighting coefficients may be selected to make the indices related to back comfort predominant in the calculation of the overall comfort index. The same is true, for example, for occupants whose certain morphological data would deviate from those of a general population, for example a tall person.

[0086] Of course, the examples of indices above are illustrative and not limiting: other algorithms can be implemented and other comfort indices can be calculated from the information taken from the sensor signals. In particular, other local indices (indices linked to other parts of the occupant's body than the trunk) can be calculated, for example linked to the legs, the feet, the arms and / or the neck / head.

[0087] In the preceding examples, the indices are calculated by means of explicit and determined equations. Alternatively, the calculation of at least one of the comfort indices C it is also a function of at least one predictive model previously constructed by machine learning. The construction of such models and their developments can be facilitated by the implementation of the methods described here in a centralized manner, for a plurality of vehicles. Indeed, the large volume of data received by a “central” controller (processing data from a large number of sets of sensors) can be used to feed the learning base of the machine constructing the model (or correcting it).

[0088] During the second operation 1002 and according to the examples above, the indices C i>t are calculated separately for each time step t. Such indices Ci>t can therefore be described as “instantaneous”. They can be calculated substantially in real time (except for the calculation and processing times of the signals from the sensors).

[0089] In embodiments, a third optional operation 1003 can be implemented: comfort indices called "combined" (or "timed" as opposed to the "instantaneous" indices described above) and noted "CijT" are calculated. The combined indices correspond to the combination of one or more instantaneous comfort indices (Ci,tn; ...; Ci,t) from several previous time steps. They can also be calculated for each time step t. Such a combination can take, for example, the form of a sum or an average, weighted or not, of the instantaneous indices Ci>t of the previous time steps. This third operation 1003 and the combined comfort indices CijT thus obtained are optional but particularly advantageous when it is desired to provide information after a time delay and to issue a type of alert only when an incorrect posture is adopted for a duration greater than one time step t.This makes it possible to limit the oppressive feeling that a user may experience when receiving alerts by favoring alerts relating to lasting postures rather than ephemeral postures or movements of the occupant. After testing, the applicant determined that considering previous time steps t extending over a total period of time between one and thirty minutes, and preferably between five and twenty minutes, produced good results.

[0090] In a fourth operation 1004, the set C of comfort indices Ci>t (and where appropriate CijT) is compared to at least one reference value. In the examples described here, each calculated comfort index Cijt, CijT is compared to a (single) corresponding reference value or to a first corresponding reference value CijRefi and to a second corresponding reference value CijRef2. In variants, only some of the calculated indices are then compared to one or more reference values. For example, when combined indices are calculated from instantaneous indices (implementation of the third operation 1003), only the combined indices can be compared to reference values. This may be the case, for example, if one wishes to generate alerts only in response to sustained incorrect postures, which does not prevent providing the user with "instantaneous" information based on the instantaneous indices without generating an alert.

[0091] The reference values are pre-established. The comparison operation aims, for each index and each time step t, to determine whether the value of each index is included in a nominal range considered “normal”, or not. In the embodiments for which the value of an index is compared to two reference values CijRefi and CijRef2, the comparison operation aims to determine more precisely whether the value of the index is included in a first nominal range considered “normal” (for example lower than the two reference values), in a second “abnormal but not critical” range (for example between the two reference values), or even in a third “abnormal and critical” range (for example higher than the first and also the second reference value).It should be noted here that, when it is not desired to be able to generate two different types of alert, carrying out a comparison with two reference values is superfluous: a comparison with a single reference value may be sufficient.

[0092] In the examples described here, it is assumed that the comfort indices have positive values that vary from a maximum value, for example 100, corresponding to maximum comfort and decrease as comfort decreases to a minimum, for example zero. The first reference value Ci>Refi, for example a constant value of 80, has a value greater than that of the second value of CijRef2, for example a constant value of 60. Of course, this is only an example of a convention that depends on the algorithmic construction of the indices: it is equivalent to use negative values or to establish a scale of values in which the value of the indices would increase as comfort decreases. The comfort indices should then rather be called discomfort indices.It should also be noted that, depending on the method of calculating each index, providing a value beyond which "comfort" can be considered "abnormally high" may correspond in practice to an undesirable situation, for example conducive to a reduction in the attention and responsiveness of a driver occupant, or even conducive to drowsiness.

[0093] In embodiments, the reference value(s) are not constants but, on the contrary, evolve with time t. Make the calculated value of the comfort indices Cijt, CijT dependent on time t as explained above, or make the reference value(s) CijRef, CijRefi, CijRef2 themselves dependent on the time t, or even making both the values of the comfort indices Ci>t, CijT and the reference value(s) CijRef, Ci>Refi, CijRef2 dependent on time t are substantially equivalent means of ensuring that the results of the comparison carried out during the fourth operation 1004 evolve over time t, including in a situation in which the signals from the set of sensors 12 correspond to the absence of detection of change in the posture of the occupant over time t. In other words, a fixed posture of the occupant of the seat for a certain duration inevitably leads to a change from a situation in which a comfort index approaches a reference value and goes from a nominal range considered "normal" to a range considered "abnormal", or even "critical".

[0094] The reference values CijRef, Ci>Refi, CijRef2 may therefore be time-dependent as indicated above. In addition, the reference values CijRef, Ci>Refi, CijRef2 may also be a function of pre-recorded parameters specific to the occupant, i.e. the profile mentioned above. For example, for an occupant who has indicated that he is usually subject to pain in the lower back, it may be relevant to transpose this information into the calculation of the reference value of a comfort index relating to the lower back. For said occupant, a reference value of one of the calculated indices C Lower_back,Ref may be adjusted relative to a default value, so that the index is considered to be in an abnormal range (of discomfort) even though, all other conditions being equal, the same index for another occupant would be considered to be in a “normal” range.It is therefore possible to customize the reference values, which can therefore vary from one occupant to another. Time dependence t and occupant dependence are options that can be implemented in isolation from each other or in combination with each other.

[0095] The first reference value CijRefi and the second reference value CijRef2 can be defined to be different from each other, so that the generation of the first alert signal SIG1 and the generation of the second alert signal SIG2 are distinguished by quantitative differences in the set C of comfort indices Ci>t, CijT. In other words, the particular case of two equal references is excluded here, which would be equivalent to the use of a single reference.

[0096] In a fifth operation 1005, at least one signal is generated at the output (of the controller 14) when at least one of the comfort indices Ci>t, CijT of said set C reaches (or exceeds) one of the reference values CijRef, Ci>Refi, CijRef2. The fifth operation 1005 may comprise one or more of the three sub-operations 10051, 10052, 10053 described in detail below.

[0097] The first sub-operation 10051 comprises the generation of a first alert signal SIG1 to the first alert device 13p. The first alert signal SIG1 is generated when a first predetermined comfort index Cijt of the set C reaches (or exceeds) the first reference value Ci>Refi. The second sub-operation 10052 comprises the generation of a second alert signal SIG2 to the first alert device 13i and / or the second alert device 132. The second alert signal SIG2 is generated when the first predetermined comfort index Ci>t and / or a second predetermined comfort index Ci>t, CijT of the set C reaches (or exceeds) the second reference value CijRef2. The third sub-operation 10053 comprises the generation of a signal to the user interface 16. The signal is generated when one of the reference values CijRef is reached by the respective comfort index Ci>t, CijT.

[0098] Preferably, in particular when the third sub-operation 10053 is implemented, the signal(s) generated are selected from several possible ones based on pre-recorded parameters specific to the occupant / user. In other words, the nature of the alert and the perceived effect can be adapted via the profile, and therefore information which is specific to the occupant / user and previously recorded.

[0099] Thus, the occupant profile data (the pre-recorded parameters specific to the occupant) may or may not be input parameters in: - the calculation of the comfort indices Ci>t, CijT (second and / or third operations 1002, 1003); and / or - the definition of the reference values CijRef, CijRefi, Ci,Ref2 used for the comparison (fourth operation 1004). Occupant / User Profile Data (pre-recorded occupant / user specific parameters) may or may not be input parameters in: - the selection of the signal generated when the generation conditions are met (fifth operation 1005).

[0100] The options for customization at the level of the calculation of the indices and for customization at the level of the reference values have substantially equivalent effects: it is a question of adapting, depending on the occupants, the conditions in which the system will detect discomfort, and therefore trigger signals by the controller 14. The customization at the level of the selection of the signals to be generated has a different effect: it is a question of adapting, depending on the occupants / users, the reaction of the system once discomfort is detected. For example, when the signals generated include control signals intended for other components of the vehicle, it is possible to generate a signal capable of triggering a neck massage device if and only if the parameters specific to the occupant include information indicating that said occupant is favorable to neck massages.Of course, this is an illustrative example and the nature of the signals generated can vary greatly depending on the context.

[0101] The alert signals generated at sub-operations 10051 and 10052 are arranged to that the alert device which receives it emits an alert upon receipt. Such an alert may be silent (intended for other components of the vehicle) and / or be perceptible by at least one occupant of the vehicle. The signals generated are dependent on the results of the comparison. For example, a signal may be emitted only when the results of the fourth comparison operation 1004 result in a situation in which at least one of the indices Ci>t, CG>t is outside a nominal range, while no signal is generated as long as each index is within its nominal range. In such a case, the alert devices 13i, 132 may be configured to transmit information to the user, including by default in the absence of reception of an alert signal from the controller 14.In alternative embodiments, a composite signal is generated: it carries various information, and is generated even when the indices are within their respective nominal ranges, for example periodically or quasi-continuously. Such a composite signal then comprises the first alert signal SIG1 and / or the second alert signal SIG2 when the conditions for their generation by the controller 14 are met.

[0102] In embodiments where it is particularly desired to adapt the nature of the alerts to adapt to the variability over time of user expectations, to limit the occurrences of alerts perceived as intrusive while providing information in real time, the implementation of sub-operations 10051 and 10052 is recommended. In embodiments where it is particularly desired for the system to adapt to each occupant / user, the implementation of sub-operation 10053 is recommended. The three sub-operations 10051, 10052, 10053 are compatible with each other. It is therefore also possible to implement the three in a combined manner.

[0103] At the end of the fifth step 1005, an optional operation can be implemented: interrupting or keeping inactive the first alert signal SIG1 and the second alert signal SIG2 when the first predetermined comfort index Ci>t ceases to reach the first reference value Ci>Refi. Thus, the two alert signals SIG1 and SIG2 are stopped substantially in real time, in particular if the occupant spontaneously implements a countermeasure, for example by repositioning himself.

[0104] At the end of the fifth step 1005, when the generation conditions are fulfilled (when one of the reference values CijRef is reached by the respective comfort index Ci,t), another optional operation can be implemented: generate at least one output signal for actuating a piece of vehicle equipment so as to implement a countermeasure. Examples of equipment whose activation corresponds to the implementation Countermeasures include, for example, heating, cooling, air circulation, or massage systems. Such countermeasures aim to reduce occupant discomfort.

[0105] At the end of the fifth operation 1005, an optional sixth operation 1006 can be implemented. The implementation of the sixth operation may or may not be conditional on the implementation of a countermeasure. Upon receipt of a command received by the controller 14 via the user interface 16, the pre-recorded parameters specific to the occupant (the profile) are updated. Only some of the pre-recorded parameters specific to the occupant can be updated, for example the behavioral parameters. The user interface 16 can for example transmit to the user (for example display or announce vocally) information intended for the user corresponding to the detection of the reaching of the reference value by one of the indices calculated according to the signals from the set of sensors. To return to the previous example, the message can be “To limit your discomfort, a lower back massage session will start.”The controller 14 can then wait for a command to be received via the user interface 16. If the user activates a command, via the user interface 16, said command is transmitted by the user interface 16 to the controller 14. The command can be, for example, a command to confirm activation of a discomfort countermeasure (here the activation of the massage), or on the contrary a refusal of the proposed countermeasure. Alternatively, acceptance can be presumed and the countermeasure can be triggered without waiting for confirmation from the user. Updating the occupant / user profile can consist of recording, confirming or denying data relating to the acceptance or refusal of the proposed countermeasure, here receiving a massage. Of course, the form of the information and the nature of the countermeasures proposed by the system 1 can be very varied.Thus, in its perceived form, System 1 can be seen as an assistance or "coach" of the occupant / user. The implementation of the update can take place during or after the implementation of a countermeasure.

[0106] By such an update of the profile (sixth operation 1006), it becomes possible to adapt the behavior of the system 1 to the occupant / user, not only as a function of information recorded prior to the implementation of the method, but also as a function of the behavior of the occupant / user in real conditions.

[0107] Except for the calculated index values, the other elements of the user profile may be pre-recorded or set to default values prior to implementing the method. Updating the profile may be limited to some of the data constituting the profile. For example, data relating to the following non-behavioral parameters may not be updated during implementation of the sixth operation 1006: - sex; - age ; - size ; - weight. - duration after which the user generally feels pain; - most sensitive areas of the body; - list of countermeasures that the user supports; whereas, on the contrary, the data relating to the following behavioral parameters may be updated when implementing the sixth operation 1006: - predetermined initial values Ci_init; - reference values CijRef, Ci>Refi, CijRef2; - calculation variables W, X and z; - the values of the comfort indices Cijt, CijT.

[0108] At the end of the series of operations 1001 to 1006 described above, the series can optionally be repeated at least once. In this case, the method is iterative. When such an iteration loop is implemented at the end of an update of the pre-recorded parameters specific to the occupant / user, the method is scalable (or self-adaptive): its behavior is refined as the iteration loops progress by adapting to the behavior of the user / occupant. The method can be implemented in a substantially continuous manner. Of course, stop or pause commands can be provided so that the system 1 can be deactivated.

[0109] The proposed method makes it possible to adapt in an evolutionary manner the countermeasures proposed in response to discomfort, whether it involves messages or advice addressed to the occupant and / or the activation of vehicle components.

[0110] Reference is now made to [Fig. 3] to [Fig. 7] which show examples of a user interface 16 (for example a screen) which can also act as an alert device, for example the first alert device 13i described above. Although the manner in which the information is presented is purely illustrative and not limiting, the reader will deduce implementation variants therefrom. In particular, the use of colors is one of the possible means but difficult to illustrate by monochrome figures. From this visual example, it is understood in particular that it is possible to quickly provide a user with general and easily understandable information, including while driving, in the form of icons, a “general score” ([Fig. 7]) or “advice” (written or vocal).It is also possible to provide detailed information on the occupant's posture in order to help the human to better adapt his posture, for example by distinguishing the parts of the body concerned ( . [Fig.6]).

[0111] In embodiments for which two types of alerts can be generated as a function of the value of each comfort index relative to the two corresponding reference indices (sub-operations 10051 and 10052), it may be relevant to associate the first alert signal SIG1 with a first alert device 13i that is discreet (for example a display screen at the dashboard) while the second alert signal SIG2 is associated both with the first alert device 13i and with a second alert device 132 that is, by comparison, less discreet, for example an audible announcement or a vibrator. Thus, the occupant can choose to consult or ignore the screen which can display information substantially in real time without distracting or bothering the user. It is particularly relevant that the information relating to the instantaneous indices is displayed on the screen.As for the second alert device 132, it is rather relevant that it is activated more rarely and only when necessary by associating it only with the second alert signal SIG2 but not with the first alert signal SIG1, so that a ringing or vibration disturbs the occupant only if one of the indices is in a critical range and not only abnormal, whether it is real-time information (instantaneous indices) or timed (combined indices). It may also be relevant to generate the second signal SIG2 only when combined indices exceed the second reference value, but not when it is the case of instantaneous indices. In doing so, it is avoided to trigger an intrusive alert (here sound or haptic) when the occupant adopts a posture, certainly critical, but only for a brief moment. The table in [Fig.8] schematically represents an example of such a configuration.

[0112] A maximum limit on the activation duration, for example of the second alert device 132, may be provided, for example from one to ten seconds. Thus, even in the event of a critical posture, an intrusive alert remains brief.

[0113] Reference is now made to [Fig.9] which represents an alternative implementation of the fifth operation 1005. The information presented to the user is deliberately delayed in relation to the signals from the sensors. The system transmits information continuously but which is updated according to different chosen delays. The condition for switching from the display of a “normal” situation in box 91 to an “abnormal but not critical” situation in box 92 is the detection of a posture considered abnormal but not critical for a pre-established duration, for example 1 second. In other words, the analysis is carried out in real time but over a sliding time window. The condition for returning to a “normal” situation in box 91 can be similar: detection of a posture considered normal for a pre-established duration, for example 1 second also. The condition for switching to a The "critical" situation in box 93 may be similar: detection of a posture considered critical for a pre-established duration, for example 10 minutes. It is preferable to choose longer durations for the conditions leading to a "critical" situation in order to limit intrusive alerts, in particular when this triggers a second type of more intrusive alert such as a sound or a vibration. As before, the condition for returning to the "normal" or "abnormal but not critical" situation may be the detection of a corresponding posture for a pre-established duration, for example 1 second. Alternatively, the conditions for moving from one state to the other may be refined. For example, to filter out very brief movements of the occupant, rather than detecting a posture continuously during the sliding window, a threshold lower than 100% may be provided.For example, the state change can be triggered as soon as the corresponding posture has been detected for X% of the total sliding window duration, for example 25%.

[0114] Reference is now made to [Fig. 10] representing a sequence of an implementation scenario, the abscissa representing the time t, the dotted frame the sliding window, for example ten minutes and the lower part what is displayed by the first alert device 13i: - during phase I, correct posture, no alert; - during (brief) phase II, incorrect posture, slight SIG 1 alert (13i alert device only); - during phase III, correct posture, no alert; - during phase IV, incorrect posture, slight SIG 1 alert (13i alert device only); - during phase V, correct posture, no alert; - during phase VI, incorrect posture, slight SIG 1 alert (13i alert device only); - at the end of phase VI, update of the SIG light alert 1 (alert device 130 + SIG intrusive alert 2 (alert device 132), either because phase VI of incorrect posture lasted more than a predetermined limit duration, or because the comfort index became lower than the second reference value CijRef2, or both.

[0115] Reference is now made to [Fig. 11] representing an example of implementation of the method. The four indices implemented are those exemplified above. The values are first initialized, then the indices are calculated (1002) and then compared (1004) to the reference values. To determine the CP countermeasures to be proposed, it is checked which of the indices is the worst compared to its reference value (index i) and the profile j of the occupant is checked. In this example, these parameters make it possible to determine that the CPÿ countermeasure “Alpha” is the one that must be proposed. The user can then accept (“OK”) or reject (“KO”) the proposal. If the user accepts, the countermeasure is implemented (1005). Profile j is updated (1006) and any index variables to be corrected are reset, and then the process is restarted. At any time, the process can be interrupted (paused) by the user. In this case, the flow of time t can be virtually stopped (t is constant). If a countermeasure is rejected ("KO"), the countermeasure is not implemented but the profile is updated, for example by reducing the reference value CijRef, so that the selection conditions for the next countermeasure are different.

[0116] Reference is now made to [Fig. 12] which graphically represents the evolution of several indices over time. On the abscissa is the time elapsed since the start of a driving session. On the ordinate are the values (between 0 and 100) of various indices. The indices Ci, C2, C3, C4 and CG correspond to the examples above. The CPers index is a comfort index declared by the user during the experiment (on a scale other than base 100). During this experiment, the occupant profile was as follows: - gender: male; - age: 32 years; - height: 177 cm; - weight: 95 kg; - usually feels pain after an hour of driving; - the lower back and legs are the most sensitive areas.

[0117] The first marker 131 at approximately 41 minutes corresponds to the identification of the fact that the index relating to an excessively fixed posture is the worst of the measured indices and the proposal, accepted and then implemented, of a countermeasure: tilting movements. The second marker 132 at approximately 1 hour and 27 minutes corresponds to the identification of the fact that the index relating to an excessively fixed posture is the worst of the measured indices and to the proposal, accepted and then implemented, of another countermeasure: lower back massage and breathing exercises. The third marker 133 at approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes corresponds to the identification of the fact that the index relating to the driving time is the worst of the measured indices and to the proposal of a countermeasure: taking a break and stopping. The countermeasure is this time refused. The person continues to drive and the indices therefore continue to decrease.

[0118] The present disclosure therefore makes it possible to both facilitate and accelerate posture corrections, and prevent disorders that may occur in the event of non-compliant posture, including postures for which discomfort or pain is not immediately perceptible to humans. The alerts and information to be transmitted to the occupant can be better discriminated from one another before they are broadcast. It becomes possible to adjust, through the use of the system, both the quality and quantity of the information provided while protecting the user from less relevant requests. In doing so, when the occupant is also a driver of the vehicle, the risks of driving errors and resulting accidents are also reduced. Industrial application

[0119] The preceding examples are easily understandable in that they bring to mind a usual context of use for a large number of readers, namely the posture of the driver in his automobile seat to whom information and alerts are transmitted while driving (avoiding distracting the driver from his driving). It will nevertheless be understood that the present disclosure is not limited to such a context. For example, the posture analyzed may be that of a first person (the occupant), such as a child passenger in the vehicle, while the alerts and information are transmitted to a second person (the user), for example the driver or any other occupant presumed to be an adult responsible for the child.It will also be noted that the alerts and information, and even the data from the sensors, could also be transmitted outside the vehicle by means of communication known per se, for example to emergency services in the event of an accident. In these cases, the user could be a person located outside the vehicle, for example in a testing context. The vehicles may also be different from a car, for example trains or aircraft. The context of use, and in particular the durations during which the occupant remains in the seat, may thus be significantly different from those usual in the case of a car by a non-professional user.

[0120] The present disclosure is not limited to the examples of methods, systems, computer programs and recording media of such programs described above, only by way of example, but it encompasses all the variants that the reader may envisage within the framework of the protection sought. List of reference signs

[0121] - 1: System - 11: seat; - 12: set of sensors; - 13i: first alert device; - 132: second alert device; - 14: controller; - 15: image analysis module; - 16: user interface; - 91: normal situation; - 92: non-critical abnormal situation; - 93: critical situation; - 111: seat; - 112: file; - 113: headrest; - 131: First marker; - 132: second marker; - 133: third marker; - 1001: first operation; - 1002: second operation; - 1003: third operation; - 1004: fourth operation; - 1005: fifth operation; - 10051: first sub-operation; - 10052: second sub-operation; - 10053: third sub-operation; - 1006: sixth operation.

Claims

Claims

1. Method (1000) for assisting in correcting the posture of an occupant of a vehicle seat (11) comprising: a. collecting (1001) as input signals from a set of sensors (12), said sensors being jointly arranged so as to detect the posture of the occupant of the seat; b. for each time step t at least, calculating (1002, 1003) as a function of the collected signals a set (C) of one or more comfort indices (Ci>t, CijT) by implementing at least one algorithm; c. comparing (1004) each of the comfort indices (Ci>t, CijT) of the set (C) with at least one respective reference value (Ci>Ref); d. generating (10053) at least one output signal to a user interface (16) when one of the reference values (Ci>Ref) is reached by the respective comfort index (Ci>t, CijT), said signal being selected from several possible signals according to pre-recorded parameters specific to said occupant e.upon receipt of a command received from said user interface in response to the generated signal, and depending on said received command, updating (1006) at least one behavioral parameter among the pre-recorded parameters specific to said occupant.

2. Method according to the preceding claim further comprising: generating at output at least one actuation signal of a vehicle equipment so as to implement a countermeasure when one of the reference values (Ci,Ref) is reached by the respective comfort index (Ci>t, CijT).

3. Method according to one of the preceding claims in which the at least one reference value is a function of pre-recorded parameters specific to said occupant.

4. Method according to one of the preceding claims in which the series of operations is repeated at least once.

5. Method according to one of the preceding claims in which the values of the comfort indices (Ci>t, CijT) and / or the reference values (C i,Ref) change over time t, so that exceeding a reference value (Ci>Ref) can occur in a situation in which the signals from the set of sensors (12) correspond to the absence of detection of change in the posture of the occupant over time t.

6. On-board vehicle system (1) comprising:

7.

8. - a seat (11) capable of receiving an occupant of the vehicle; - a set of sensors (12) jointly arranged so as to detect the posture of the occupant of the seat and at least part of which are integrated into the seat; - a user interface (16) capable of receiving commands from a user and transmitting information to the user; and - a controller (14) capable of receiving as input signals from the set of sensors and commands from the user interface (), and of generating as output signals intended for the user interface (), said controller being further configured to: a. collecting (1001) as input signals from a set of sensors (12), said sensors being jointly arranged so as to detect the posture of the occupant of the seat; b. for each time step t at least, calculate (1002, 1003) as a function of the collected signals a set (C) of one or more comfort indices (Ci>t, CijT) by implementing at least one algorithm; c. compare (1004) each of the comfort index(es) (Cijt, CijT) of the game (C) to at least one respective reference value (Ci,Ref); d. generate (10053) at least one output signal to a user interface (16) when one of the reference values (Ci,Ref) is reached by the respective comfort index (Ci>t, CijT), said signal being selected from several possible signals according to pre-recorded parameters specific to said occupant e. upon receipt of a command received from said user interface in response to the generated signal, and based on said received command, updating (1006) at least one behavioral parameter among the pre-recorded parameters specific to said occupant. Computer program comprising instructions for implementing the method according to one of claims 1 to 5 when this program is executed by a processor. Non-transitory recording medium readable by a computer on which is recorded a program for implementing the method according to one of claims 1 to 5 when this program is executed by a processor.

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