Vehicle system

Abstract

To simplify operation for transmitting a message from a first vehicle to a second vehicle.SOLUTION: A vehicle system 1 is a system capable of transmitting a message from a first vehicle C1 to a second vehicle C2. The first vehicle C1 includes at least one sensor 21 and a first control part 110. The sensor 21 is provided on an interior member (an ornament 20) except an operation part for operating a screen and an object on the screen. The sensor 21 detects a contact with a user. The first control part 110 selects one message from among a plurality of messages stored in advance, on the basis of information which is acquired from the sensor 21 and is variable depending on the user's way of touching the interior member, and transmits the selected message to the second vehicle C2.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a vehicle system capable of transmitting a message from a first vehicle to a second vehicle. [Background technology]

[0002] 2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, as a vehicle system capable of transmitting a message from a first vehicle to a second vehicle, a vehicle system is known in which a plurality of messages are displayed on a screen and a user can select one message from the plurality of messages (see Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2007-148524 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, the conventional technology has a problem in that the user has to take the time to check multiple messages displayed on the screen, making the operation of sending a message cumbersome.

[0005] Therefore, an object of the present invention is to simplify the operation of transmitting a message from a first vehicle to a second vehicle. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] In order to achieve the above object, a vehicle system according to the present invention is a system capable of transmitting a message from a first vehicle to a second vehicle. The first vehicle includes at least one sensor and a first control unit. The sensor is provided in an interior member excluding the screen and an operation unit for operating an object on the screen. The sensor detects contact with a user. The first control unit selects one message from a plurality of pre-stored messages based on information obtained from the sensor that changes depending on how the user touches the interior member, and transmits the selected message to the second vehicle.

[0007] According to this configuration, when a user touches the interior member in a predetermined manner, a message corresponding to the user's manner of touching is transmitted from the first vehicle to the second vehicle, making it possible to simplify the operation of transmitting messages.

[0008] The second vehicle may also include a display unit capable of displaying a character, and a second control unit, and the second control unit may move the character in a manner corresponding to the message acquired from the first vehicle.

[0009] According to this configuration, the character displayed on the display unit of the second vehicle moves in a manner corresponding to the message, thereby enhancing entertainment value.

[0010] The interior member may also have a cushion.

[0011] The interior member may be a decorative item attached to the first vehicle.

[0012] According to this configuration, a message is sent by the user touching the accessory, which enhances entertainment value.

[0013] The second vehicle may also include a seat, an electric device provided in the seat, and a second control unit, and the second control unit may operate the electric device in an operation corresponding to the message obtained from the first vehicle.

[0014] According to this configuration, the electrically-driven device is operated in response to the message, which can enhance entertainment value, for example.

[0015] Moreover, the electric device may be a vibration device that vibrates a seating surface of the seat, and the second control unit may operate the vibration device with a vibration pattern corresponding to the message acquired from the first vehicle.

[0016] Moreover, the sensor may be a pressure sensor, and the first control unit may select the message based on a pressure value obtained from the pressure sensor.

[0017] Moreover, the interior member may have lighting, and the first control unit may turn on the lighting in a lighting pattern corresponding to the selected message.

[0018] The first vehicle may also be equipped with a first sensor and a second sensor arranged at a position different from the first sensor, and the first control unit may select a first message based on a signal from the first sensor, and select a second message different from the first message based on a signal from the second sensor.

[0019] According to this configuration, it is possible to transmit a different message depending on the position touched by the user.

[0020] The second vehicle may also include a first electric device arranged at a position corresponding to a first sensor provided on the first vehicle, a second electric device arranged at a position corresponding to a second sensor provided on the first vehicle, and a second control unit, and the second control unit may operate the first electric device when it receives a first message from the first vehicle, and operate the second electric device when it receives a second message from the first vehicle.

[0021] According to this configuration, for example, when a user of a first vehicle sends a message using the first sensor, a first electric device arranged at a position corresponding to the first sensor in the second vehicle is activated, thereby enabling the user of the second vehicle to know the location that the user touched in the first vehicle.

[0022] Moreover, the interior member may be a seat, and the sensor may be disposed at a position that avoids the seating surface of the seat.

[0023] The second vehicle may also be equipped with a seat, a vibration device that vibrates the seating surface of the seat, and a second control unit, and when the first control unit predicts a collision between the first vehicle and the second vehicle based on information from a collision detection unit provided in the first vehicle, the first control unit may transmit a collision message to the second vehicle forecasting the vehicle collision, and the second control unit may operate the vibration device with a vibration pattern corresponding to the collision message obtained from the first vehicle.

[0024] According to this configuration, the user of the second vehicle can be informed of a vehicle collision predicted by the first vehicle. Effect of the Invention

[0025] According to the present invention, when a user touches an interior member in a predetermined manner, a message corresponding to the user's manner of touching is transmitted from the first vehicle to the second vehicle, thereby simplifying the operation of sending messages.

[0026] Furthermore, the entertainment value can be increased by configuring the character displayed on the display unit of the second vehicle to act in accordance with the message received from the first vehicle.

[0027] Furthermore, by using a decorative item as the interior member, a message is transmitted when the user touches the decorative item, thereby enhancing entertainment value.

[0028] In addition, by configuring the electric device of the second vehicle to operate in accordance with the message received from the first vehicle, it is possible to enhance entertainment value, for example.

[0029] Furthermore, by configuring the first control unit to transmit messages corresponding to the first sensor and the second sensor arranged in different positions, different messages can be transmitted depending on the position touched by the user.

[0030] In addition, the second control unit is configured to activate the first electric device and the second electric device of the second vehicle, which are arranged at positions corresponding to the first sensor and the second sensor of the first vehicle, in response to a message from the first vehicle.For example, when a user of the first vehicle sends a message using the first sensor, the first electric device arranged at a position corresponding to the first sensor in the second vehicle is activated, so that the user of the second vehicle can know where the user touched in the first vehicle.

[0031] In addition, by configuring the second control unit to activate the vibration device with a vibration pattern corresponding to the collision message obtained from the first vehicle, the user of the second vehicle can be notified of the vehicle collision predicted by the first vehicle. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0032] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram showing a vehicle system according to a first embodiment. [Diagram 2] This is a rear view of the structure around the dashboard. [Diagram 3] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an image corresponding to a message of gratitude. [Figure 4] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an image corresponding to an apology message. [Diagram 5] FIG. 13 shows an image corresponding to a lane change message. [Figure 6] 6 is a flowchart showing the operation of a first control unit. [Figure 7] 6 is a flowchart showing the operation of a second control unit. [Figure 8] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing the state inside each vehicle when a message is transmitted. [Figure 9] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a vehicle system according to a second embodiment. [Figure 10] 10 is a flowchart showing the operation of a first control unit according to the second embodiment. [Figure 11] 10 is a flowchart showing the operation of a second control unit according to the second embodiment. [Figure 12]FIG. 11 is a diagram showing the state inside each vehicle when a message is transmitted. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a perspective view showing a modified example of the seat and the sensor position. [Figure 14] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a modified example of the sensor position. [Figure 15] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a modified example of the sensor position. [Figure 16] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a modified example of the sensor position. [Figure 17] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a tactile sensor as a modified example of the sensor. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0033] [First embodiment] Hereinafter, a first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. 1, the vehicle system 1 is a system capable of transmitting a message from a first vehicle C1 to a second vehicle C2. The vehicle system 1 includes the first vehicle C1, the second vehicle C2, and a server SV.

[0034] The first vehicle C1 includes a seat 10, an ornament 20 as an example of an interior member, a camera 30 as an example of a collision detection unit, a monitor M as an example of a display unit, and a control unit 100. The seat 10, the ornament 20, the camera 30, and the monitor M are disposed in the first vehicle C1, more specifically, in positions facing the passenger compartment. In this embodiment, the seat 10 is the driver's seat.

[0035] The seat 10 includes a seat body 10A and a vibration device 70 as an example of an electric device.

[0036] The seat body 10A is a member having a seating surface that supports a user. The seat body 10A includes a seat cushion 11, a seat back 12, and a headrest 13. The seat cushion 11, the seat back 12, and the headrest 13 each have a metal frame that forms a framework, a pad that covers the frame, and a skin that covers the pad. The pad is made of urethane foam or the like. The skin is made of synthetic leather, cloth, or the like. The upper surface of the seat cushion 11 serves as the seating surface. The front surfaces of the seat back 12 and the headrest 13 serve as the seating surfaces.

[0037] The vibration device 70 is a device that vibrates the seating surface of the seat 10. In this embodiment, the vibration device 70 is provided in the seat back 12. The vibration devices 70 are provided, for example, on the left and right sides of the seating surface of the seat back 12.

[0038] 2, the ornament 20 is a stuffed cat toy. The ornament 20 is attached to the dashboard D of the first vehicle C1. The ornament 20 has a sensor 21, a light 22, a cushion 23, and a cover 24.

[0039] The sensor 21 is a pressure sensor, and detects contact between the user and the ornament 20. The sensor 21 is provided on the body portion of the ornament 20. The position of the sensor 21 is arbitrary, and the sensor 21 may be disposed on the head of the ornament 20, for example.

[0040] The lighting 22 is capable of emitting light of several different colors. The lighting 22 is located, for example, between the cushion 23 and the skin 24. The lighting 22 radiates light to the outside through, for example, a hole or a transparent part provided in the skin 24. The lighting 22 is provided in the body part of the ornament 20. The position of the lighting 22 is arbitrary, and for example, the sensor 21 may be provided at the head of the lighting 22. The lighting 22 may also be provided on the outer surface of the skin 24.

[0041] Cushion 23 is made of urethane foam or the like, and covers sensor 21. The outer shape of cushion 23 resembles a cat. The cover 26 is made of synthetic leather, fabric or the like, and covers the cushion 23.

[0042] The monitor M has a screen M1 for displaying an image. The image displayed on the monitor M can be changed by the control unit 100. The monitor M can be disposed on the dashboard D so as to be located, for example, below the rear-view mirror.

[0043] 1, the camera 30 is a camera that captures an image of the area in front of the first vehicle C1. Image information captured by the camera 30 is output to the control unit 100.

[0044] The control unit 100 has a CPU, ROM, RAM, rewritable non-volatile memory, etc. (not shown), and executes pre-stored programs. The control unit 100 acquires information from the camera 30 and the sensor 21 in the ornament 20. The control unit 100 controls the monitor M and the vibration device 70. The control unit 100 is capable of communicating with the server SV.

[0045] The second vehicle C2 is equipped with a seat 10, an ornament 20, a camera 30, a monitor M, and a control unit 100, similar to the first vehicle C1. The control unit 100 of the second vehicle C2 can communicate with the control unit 100 of the first vehicle C1 via the server SV. In the following description, the control unit 100 of the first vehicle C1 is also referred to as the "first control unit 110," and the control unit 100 of the second vehicle C2 is also referred to as the "second control unit 120."

[0046] The following describes the functions of the first control unit 110 and the second control unit 120. Since the first control unit 110 and the second control unit 120 have the same functions, the functions described for one of the first control unit 110 and the second control unit 120 also have the same functions for the other one.

[0047] The first control unit 110 has a function of selecting one message from a plurality of pre-stored messages based on the information (pressure value) acquired from the sensor 21, and transmitting the selected message to the second control unit 120 (the control unit 100 of the second vehicle C2). Here, the information acquired by the sensor 21 changes depending on how the user touches the ornament 20. The first control unit 110 selects a message corresponding to the user's touching manner from among the plurality of messages.

[0048] In this embodiment, the first control unit 110 selects a message according to the number of times the user kneads the ornament 20 within a predetermined time period (hereinafter also referred to as the "number of inputs"). In detail, the first control unit 110 counts up the number of inputs by one when the pressure value acquired from the sensor 21 becomes equal to or greater than a predetermined value, and thereafter, counts up the number of inputs every time the pressure value rises from a value less than the predetermined value to a value equal to or greater than the predetermined value within the predetermined time period.

[0049] The first control unit 110 selects a first message, "Thank you for letting me go," when the number of inputs within the predetermined time is one. The first control unit 110 selects a second message, "I'm sorry," when the number of inputs within the predetermined time is two. The first control unit 110 selects a third message, "I will change lanes," when the number of inputs within the predetermined time is three.

[0050] In addition, there are two types of lane changes: from the left lane to the right lane and from the right lane to the left lane. In this embodiment, only the case of changing from the left lane to the right lane will be described as a representative. In the case of changing from the right lane to the left lane, for example, when the number of inputs within a predetermined time is four, the first control unit 110 may be configured to select a message indicating that the lane is to be changed from the right lane to the left lane.

[0051] When the second control unit 120 receives the first message from the first control unit 110, it displays an image of text indicating the first message and a cat character on the screen M1 of the monitor M, as shown in Fig. 3. The second control unit 120 moves the character in a manner corresponding to the first message acquired from the first control unit 110. For example, the second control unit 120 displays an image of the text "Thanks for letting me have your car" and a video of the cat bowing.

[0052] When the second control unit 120 receives the second message from the first control unit 110, it displays an image of text indicating the second message and a video of a cat moving in a manner corresponding to the second message on the screen M1 of the monitor M, as shown in Fig. 4. For example, the second control unit 120 displays an image of the text "I'm sorry" and a video of a cat bowing its head and apologizing.

[0053] When the second control unit 120 receives the third message from the first control unit 110, it displays, on the screen M1 of the monitor M, an image of text indicating the third message and a video of a cat moving in a manner corresponding to the third message, as shown in Fig. 5. For example, the second control unit 120 displays an image of text saying "Changing lanes" and a video of a cat crossing the road.

[0054] Furthermore, when a message is selected, the first control unit 110 has a function of turning on the light 22 in a lighting pattern corresponding to the selected message. For example, when the first message is selected, the first control unit 110 causes the light 22 to emit red light. When the second message is selected, the first control unit 110 causes the light 22 to emit blue light. When the third message is selected, the first control unit 110 causes the light 22 to emit yellow light. Note that the lighting pattern is not limited to colors, and may be, for example, a lighting pattern with different blinking intervals.

[0055] When the second control unit 120 receives a message from the first control unit 110, the second control unit 120 has a function of turning on the lighting 22 in a lighting pattern corresponding to the received message and activating the vibration device 70 in a vibration pattern corresponding to the received message. The lighting pattern can be, for example, the same pattern as when the first control unit 110 selects a message.

[0056] The vibration pattern can be, for example, a pattern in which the vibration device 70 is activated a different number of times. For example, the vibration pattern corresponding to the first message can be set to a pattern in which at least one of the left and right vibration devices 70 vibrates twice during a second predetermined time. The vibration pattern corresponding to the second message can be set to a pattern in which at least one of the left and right vibration devices 70 vibrates six times during a second predetermined time. The vibration pattern corresponding to the third message can be set to a pattern in which the vibration moves from left to right by activating the left vibration device 70 and then activating the right vibration device 70.

[0057] Furthermore, the first control unit 110 has a function of predicting a collision between the first vehicle C1 and the second vehicle C2 based on information from the camera 30. When the first control unit 110 predicts a collision between the first vehicle C1 and the second vehicle C2, it transmits a collision message predicting a vehicle collision to the second control unit 120. Note that the collision message may be, for example, a message such as "There is a possibility that a following vehicle will collide with your vehicle from the rear."

[0058] The second control unit 120 has a function of operating the vibration device with a vibration pattern corresponding to the acquired collision message when the second control unit 120 acquires a collision message from the first control unit 110. The vibration pattern corresponding to the collision message can be set to, for example, a pattern that causes the vibration device 70 to vibrate continuously for a second predetermined time or longer.

[0059] Next, a detailed description will be given of the operations of the first control unit 110 and the second control unit 120. The first control unit 110 repeatedly executes the transmission process shown in FIG.

[0060] In the transmission process, the first control unit 110 transmits the location information of the first vehicle C1 together with the vehicle ID (identification information) of the first vehicle C1 to the server SV using a GPS (Global Positioning System) or the like (S1). Here, the second control unit 120, which has the same function as the first control unit 110, also constantly transmits the vehicle ID and location information of the second vehicle C2 to the server SV. The server SV constantly updates the vehicle ID and location information by associating them with each vehicle.

[0061] After step S1, the first control unit 110 acquires the vehicle ID and location information of the other vehicle from the server SV (S2). After step S2, the first control unit 110 determines whether or not a second vehicle C2 is present in the vicinity of the first vehicle C1 (for example, within a radius of several tens of meters) based on the vehicle ID and location information acquired in step S2 (S3).

[0062] If it is determined in step S3 that the second vehicle C2 does not exist (No), the first control unit 110 ends this process. If it is determined in step S3 that the second vehicle C2 exists (Yes), the first control unit 110 determines whether or not information has been input to the sensor 21 by determining whether or not the pressure value acquired from the sensor 21 is equal to or greater than a predetermined value (S4).

[0063] If it is determined in step S4 that information has been input to the sensor 21 (Yes), the first control unit 110 calculates the number of inputs to the sensor 21 within a predetermined time period, and selects a message and a lighting pattern based on the calculated number of inputs (S5). After step S5, the first control unit 110 turns on the lights 22 of the ornament 20 in the selected lighting pattern (S6).

[0064] After step S6, the first control unit 110 transmits the selected message to the second vehicle C2 via the server SV (S7). After step S7, the first control unit 110 acquires information from the camera 30 (S8). If it is determined in step S4 that no information has been input to the sensor 21 (No), the control unit 51 skips steps S5 to S7 and proceeds to the process of step S8.

[0065] After step S8, the first control unit 110 determines whether or not there is a possibility that the first vehicle C1 will collide with the second vehicle C2 based on the information acquired from the camera 30 (S9). If it is determined in step S9 that there is a possibility of a collision (Yes), the first control unit 110 transmits a collision message to the second control unit 120 of the second vehicle C2 (S10) and ends this process. If it is determined in step S9 that there is no possibility of a collision (No), the first control unit 110 ends this process as it is.

[0066] The second control unit 120 repeatedly executes the reception process shown in FIG. In the reception process, the second control unit 120 determines whether or not a message has been received from the first vehicle C1 (S31). If it is determined in step S31 that a message has not been received (No), the second control unit 120 ends this process.

[0067] If it is determined in step S31 that a message has been received (Yes), the second control unit 120 selects an action, a vibration pattern, and a lighting pattern for the cat based on the received message (S32). After step S32, the second control unit 120 displays the received message and a video of the cat performing the selected action on the screen M1 (S33).

[0068] After step S33, the second control unit 120 activates the vibration device 70 with the selected vibration pattern (S34), and turns on the lights 22 of the ornament 20 with the selected lighting pattern (S35), and then ends this process.

[0069] Next, a specific example of the operation of the control unit 100 will be described. 8, for example, in a situation where the first vehicle C1 has overtaken the second vehicle C2 that has given way to the first vehicle C1 by changing lanes, when the user of the first vehicle C1 rubs the ornament 20 once, a first message is transmitted from the first vehicle C1 to the second vehicle C2. When the second control unit 120 receives the first message, it displays an image on the screen M1 conveying gratitude to the user of the second vehicle C2.

[0070] This allows the user of the first vehicle C1 to send the first message of gratitude to the second vehicle C2 by simply performing a simple operation such as kneading the ornament 20 once. Also, the user of the second vehicle C2 can feel that he or she has done a good deed by seeing the words of gratitude and the video of the cat bowing displayed on the screen M1.

[0071] Furthermore, when a first message is sent from the first vehicle C1 to the second vehicle C2, the ornament 20 of the first vehicle C1 and the ornament 20 of the second vehicle C2 both glow red. This allows the user who sent the message and the user who received the message to intuitively know that they have sent or received a message expressing gratitude by seeing the ornament 20 glowing red.

[0072] Furthermore, the vibration device 70 vibrates twice on the seat 10 of the second vehicle C2. This allows the user who receives the message to intuitively know that he or she has received a message expressing gratitude.

[0073] For example, in a situation where the first vehicle C1 suddenly cuts in front of the second vehicle C2, if the user of the first vehicle C1 rubs the ornament 20 twice, the second message is transmitted from the first vehicle C1 to the second vehicle C2. When the second control unit 120 receives the second message, it displays an image conveying an apology to the user of the second vehicle C2 on the screen M1, as shown in FIG.

[0074] This allows the user of the first vehicle C1 to send the second message of apology to the second vehicle C2 simply by performing a simple operation of kneading the ornament 20 twice. Also, the user of the second vehicle C2's anger is alleviated by the apology message and the video of the cat bowing displayed on the screen M1.

[0075] Furthermore, when the second message is transmitted from the first vehicle C1 to the second vehicle C2, the ornament 20 of the first vehicle C1 and the ornament 20 of the second vehicle C2 both glow blue. This allows the user who sent the message and the user who received it to intuitively know that they have sent or received a message conveying an apology by looking at the ornament 20 glowing blue.

[0076] Furthermore, the vibration device 70 vibrates six times on the seat 10 of the second vehicle C2, which allows the user who receives the message to intuitively know that he or she has received a message conveying an apology.

[0077] For example, in a situation where the first vehicle C1 is changing lanes, if the user of the first vehicle C1 rubs the ornament 20 three times, the third message is transmitted from the first vehicle C1 to the second vehicle C2. When the second control unit 120 receives the third message, it displays an image on the screen M1 informing the user of the second vehicle C2 of the lane change, as shown in FIG.

[0078] This allows the user of the first vehicle C1 to transmit the third message informing the second vehicle C2 of a lane change by simply kneading the ornament 20 three times. The user of the second vehicle C2 is also comforted by the text indicating a lane change and the video of a cat displayed on the screen M1.

[0079] Furthermore, when the third message is transmitted from the first vehicle C1 to the second vehicle C2, the ornament 20 of the first vehicle C1 and the ornament 20 of the second vehicle C2 both glow yellow. Furthermore, on the seat 10 of the second vehicle C2, the vibration device 70 on the left side vibrates, and then the vibration device 70 on the right side vibrates. This allows the user who receives the message to know that the lane will be changed from the left lane to the right lane.

[0080] As described above, according to this embodiment, the following effects can be obtained. When the user touches the ornament 20 in a predetermined manner, a message corresponding to the user's manner of touch is transmitted from the first vehicle C1 to the second vehicle C2, making it possible to simplify the operation of transmitting a message.

[0081] The cat character displayed on the monitor M of the second vehicle C2 moves in a manner corresponding to the message, enhancing entertainment value.

[0082] The message is sent by the user touching the ornament 20, which enhances the entertainment value.

[0083] Since the vibration device 70 is activated by an action corresponding to the message, the message can be intuitively understood by the vibration pattern.

[0084] The lights come on in a pattern that corresponds to the message, so the message can be intuitively understood by the lighting pattern.

[0085] Since the vibration device 70 is activated with a vibration pattern corresponding to the collision message, the user of the second vehicle C2 can be informed of the vehicle collision predicted by the first vehicle C1.

[0086] [Second embodiment] Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings as appropriate. Note that, since this embodiment is a modification of a part of the configuration of the vehicle system 1 and a part of the operation of the control unit 100 according to the first embodiment, the same configurations and processes as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof will be omitted.

[0087] 9, a vehicle system 601 according to the second embodiment includes a seat 610 as an example of an interior member. The seat 610 includes a seat body 610A having a configuration substantially similar to that of the seat body 10A of the first embodiment, a first vibrating device 671 and a second vibrating device 672 having a configuration substantially similar to that of the vibrating device 70 of the first embodiment, and further includes a first sensor 41 and a second sensor 42.

[0088] 9 illustrates a configuration provided on the first vehicle C1, but this configuration is also provided on the second vehicle C2. In the second embodiment, the first vehicle C1 and the second vehicle C2 do not include the ornament 20 of the first embodiment.

[0089] The seat cushion 11 has a base portion 11A disposed in the left-right center and overhanging portions 11B disposed on both the left and right outer sides of the base portion 11A. The base portion 11A has a seating surface F that contacts and supports the user's buttocks and thighs from below. The overhanging portions 11B overhang from the seating surface F of the base portion 11A toward the user to support the sides of the user's thighs and buttocks.

[0090] Similarly, the seat back 12 has a base portion 12A disposed in the left-right center and overhanging portions 12B disposed on both the left and right outer sides of the base portion 12A. The base portion 12A has a seating surface F that contacts the back of the user and supports the back from behind. The overhanging portions 12B overhang toward the user from the seating surface F of the base portion 12A to support the sides of the user's upper body.

[0091] The seat cushion 11 has a first vibrating device 671 and a first sensor 41. The headrest 13 has a second vibrating device 672 and a second sensor .

[0092] The first sensor 41 and the second sensor 42 are pressure sensors that detect pressure from a user. The first sensor 41 and the second sensor 42 are provided at positions avoiding the seating surface F, that is, at positions away from the seating surface F.

[0093] More specifically, the first sensors 41 are provided on the left and right protruding portions 11B of the seat cushion 11, one each. The second sensor 42 is disposed at a position different from that of the first sensor 41. More specifically, the second sensor 42 is provided on each of the left and right side surfaces of the headrest 13. The first sensor 41 and the second sensor 42 are each located between the skin and the pad.

[0094] The first vibrating device 671 is disposed at a position corresponding to the first sensor 41 (in the vicinity of the first sensor 41). In other words, the first vibrating device 671 and the first sensor 41 are provided on the same member (the seat cushion 11).

[0095] In detail, two first vibrating devices 671 are provided side by side on the left and right in the base portion 11A of the seat cushion 11. Each first vibrating device 671 is located between the left and right first sensors 41. By arranging the first vibrating device 671 at a position (component) corresponding to the first sensor 41, the second vehicle C2 having the same seat 610 as the first vehicle C1 is provided with the first vibrating device 671 located at a position corresponding to the first sensor 41 provided in the first vehicle C1.

[0096] The second vibrating device 672 is disposed at a position corresponding to the second sensor 42 (near the second sensor 42). In other words, the second vibrating device 672 and the second sensor 42 are provided on the same member (the headrest 13).

[0097] In detail, two second vibrating devices 672 are provided side by side on the left and right in the headrest 13. Each second vibrating device 672 is located between the left and right second sensors 42. By arranging the second vibrating device 672 at a position (component) corresponding to the second sensor 42, the second vehicle C2 having the same seat 610 as the first vehicle C1 is provided with the second vibrating device 672 located at a position corresponding to the second sensor 42 provided in the first vehicle C1.

[0098] The first control unit 110 can acquire information from the first sensor 41 and the second sensor 42. The first control unit 110 selects a first message based on a signal from the first sensor 41, and selects a second message different from the first message based on a signal from the second sensor 42. In the second embodiment, the contents of the first message and the second message are the same as those in the first embodiment.

[0099] The second control unit 120, which is the control unit 100 of the second vehicle C2, activates the first vibration device 671 of the second vehicle C2 when receiving the first message from the first vehicle C1. The second control unit 120 activates the second vibration device 672 of the second vehicle C2 when receiving the second message from the first vehicle C1.

[0100] The first control unit 110 executes the process shown in Fig. 10. The process in Fig. 10 includes new steps S51 to S54 in addition to steps S1 to S3 and S7 to S10 in the process in Fig. 6.

[0101] If the first control unit 110 determines in step S3 that the second vehicle C2 is present in the vicinity of the host vehicle (Yes), it determines whether or not information has been input to the first sensor 41 (S51). If the first control unit 110 determines in step S51 that information has been input to the first sensor 41 (Yes), it selects a first message (S52).

[0102] If it is determined in step S51 that no information has been input to the first sensor 41 (No), the first control unit 110 determines whether or not information has been input to the second sensor 42 (S53). If it is determined in step S53 that information has been input to the second sensor 42 (Yes), the first control unit 110 selects a second message (S54).

[0103] When it is determined in step S53 that no information has been input to the second sensor 42 (No), the first control unit 110 proceeds to the process of step S8. After step S52 or step S54, the first control unit 110 transmits the selected message to the second vehicle C2 (S7).

[0104] The second control unit 120 executes the process shown in Fig. 11. The process in Fig. 11 includes new steps S71 and S72 in addition to steps S31 and S33 in the process in Fig. 7.

[0105] When the second control unit 120 determines in step S31 that a message has been received (Yes), it selects an action of the cat and a vibration device to be activated based on the message (S71). After step S71, the second control unit 120 displays the received message and a video of the cat performing the selected action on the screen M1 (S33). After step S33, the second control unit 120 activates the selected vibration device (S72) and ends this process.

[0106] Next, a specific example of the operation of the control unit 100 will be described. 12, for example, in a situation where the first vehicle C1 suddenly cuts in front of the second vehicle C2, when the user of the first vehicle C1 presses either the left or right side of the headrest 13, the second message is transmitted from the first vehicle C1 to the second vehicle C2. When the second control unit 120 receives the second message, it displays an image conveying an apology to the user of the second vehicle C2 on the screen M1 and vibrates the second vibration device 672 of the headrest 13.

[0107] This allows the user of the first vehicle C1 to send the second message conveying an apology to the second vehicle C2 by simply performing a simple operation such as pressing the side of the headrest 13. Also, when the user of the first vehicle C1 presses the headrest 13, the headrest 13 of the second vehicle C2 vibrates, so that the user of the second vehicle C2 can know the position (member) that the user touched in the first vehicle C1. Therefore, the user of the first vehicle C1 and the user of the second vehicle C2 can come into contact with each other through the seat 610.

[0108] For example, in a situation where a second vehicle C2 traveling in front of a first vehicle C1 changes lanes and gives way to the first vehicle C1, when a user of the first vehicle C1 presses either the left or right protruding portion 11B of the seat cushion 11, a first message is transmitted from the first vehicle C1 to the second vehicle C2. When the second control unit 120 receives the first message, as shown in Fig. 3, it displays an image conveying gratitude to the user of the second vehicle C2 on the screen M1 and vibrates the first vibration device 671 of the seat cushion 11.

[0109] This allows the user of the first vehicle C1 to send a first message of gratitude to the second vehicle C2 by simply performing a simple operation such as pressing the protruding portion 11B of the seat cushion 11. Also, when the user of the first vehicle C1 presses the seat cushion 11, the seat cushion 11 of the second vehicle C2 vibrates, so that the user of the second vehicle C2 can know the position (member) that the user touched in the first vehicle C1. Therefore, the user of the first vehicle C1 and the user of the second vehicle C2 can come into contact with each other through the seat 610.

[0110] The seat is not limited to the structure of the above embodiment. For example, as shown in Fig. 13, the seat 200 may have a seat cushion 210, a seat back 220, and a headrest 230, as well as an ottoman 240 and an armrest 250. A console box 300 may be provided next to the seat 200.

[0111] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 13, the seat back 220 has a first member 221 rotatably supported on the seat cushion 210, and a second member 222 rotatably supported on an upper portion of the first member 221 and having a headrest 230 provided on its upper portion.

[0112] In this case, the sensor 40 through which information is input by the user can be disposed in at least one of the following locations. Left and right overhanging portions 211 of the seat cushion 210 The front end surface of the seat cushion 210 Left and right protruding portions 221A of the first member 221 Left and right protruding portions 222A of the second member 222 The left and right sides or rear of the seat back 220 The left and right sides, bottom or back of the headrest 230 The front end surface, top surface, left and right inner side surfaces, or left and right outer side surfaces of the armrest 250 Left and right sides of Ottoman 240 Left and right inner side surfaces or left and right outer side surfaces of the console box 300

[0113] The sensor 40 may be the first sensor 41, the second sensor 42, or another sensor for transmitting a message different from the first sensor 41 and the second sensor 42.

[0114] 14, the sensor 40 may be provided on the steering wheel ST, as indicated by hatching with dots in the figure. The screen M1 on which the characters are displayed may also be provided on the steering wheel ST.

[0115] 15, the sensor 40 may be provided in a center console box 401 located between the driver's seat and the passenger seat, in a dashboard 402, or in an inner panel 403 such as a door or a vehicle side wall, as indicated by hatching with dots in the figure. The sensor 40 may be provided inside a cylindrical blower 404. The cylindrical blower 404 has a blowing port in its cylindrical body for blowing air toward the inside of the vehicle.

[0116] 16, sensor 40 may be provided in a member (seat cushion, seat back, headrest) constituting at least one of first row seat 411, second row seat 412, or third row seat 413, as indicated by hatching with dots in the figure. Sensor 40 may also be provided in roof 414, lid 415 for opening and closing a sunroof, assist grip 416, the upper part of the back of the seat back, the upper surface of dashboard 402, or above a meter hood. Sensor 40 may be integrated into the inside of an interior member, or may be disposed so as to protrude from the interior member.

[0117] 17, the sensor may be a tactile sensor 500 that detects displacement in three-dimensional directions. Tactile sensor 500 has an operation unit 510 made of sponge and a substrate 520 that detects displacement of operation unit 510. Tactile sensor 500 can detect displacement in the X direction, displacement in the Y direction perpendicular to the X direction, and displacement in the Z direction perpendicular to the X and Y directions.

[0118] In this case, the control unit 100 may select a message based on the direction of displacement acquired from the tactile sensor 500. For example, the control unit 100 may select a message expressing gratitude when the tactile sensor 500 is operated in a circular motion.

[0119] The sponge-type tactile sensor may be embedded in a stuffed toy that resembles a character such as a cat. The control unit may recognize the roll, pitch, and yaw directions corresponding to the six axial directions based on information from the tactile sensor. For example, when the control unit detects an input pattern of rubbing a stuffed toy (holding the stuffed toy in both hands and moving both hands up and down), the control unit may select a message expressing gratitude. For example, the control unit may control multiple air cells so that the rubbing action is reproduced on the surface of a seat of the second vehicle.

[0120] In this case, the first control unit may select the message "Thank you" when it is determined that strong pressure has been applied to the right side of the stuffed toy. The first control unit may select the message "I'm sorry" when it is determined that strong pressure has been applied to the left side of the stuffed toy. The first control unit may select the message "I'll go first" when it is determined that the stuffed toy has been squeezed multiple times. The first control unit may select the message "I'll go first" when it is determined that the stuffed toy has been pinched.

[0121] The first control unit may determine whether to transmit the selected message based on information from a sensor. For example, a transmitting sensor may be provided on the top of the stuffed animal, and the selected message may be transmitted when the transmitting sensor is tapped twice.

[0122] The electrically powered device may be any of the following devices: -Reclining device that tilts the seat back Height mechanism that moves the seat up and down -Slide device that moves the seat back and forth A movable device that changes the shape of the sheet by driving a bag (air cell) or a plate member that is operated by the inflow of air. -Side frame front end lifting mechanism that switches the front ends of the seat cushion side frames between the up position, in which they are raised, and the down position, in which they are lowered Tilt mechanism that moves the seat cushion pan up and down A seat back tilting mechanism that tilts the upper part of the seat back forward and backward (a mechanism that tilts the second member 222 in FIG. 13 relative to the first member 221) Rotation mechanism that rotates the sheet on a vertical axis -Cushion front / rear adjustment mechanism to adjust the length of the front end of the seat cushion -Mechanism for rotating the ottoman up and down -Mechanism for rotating armrests up and down Armrest extension mechanism -Mechanism for switching armrests between extended and bent positions ·illumination Headrest speaker (The headrest speaker may rotate or move in at least one of the following directions: front / back, left / right, up / down.) Heaters installed in the seat back or seat cushion Seat blower, a seat air conditioning device that circulates air on the surface of the seat cushion and seat back

[0123] The movable device may be one that moves the left and right protruding portions of the seat cushion or the seat back, or one that moves a part of the seating surface of the seat back or the seat cushion.

[0124] The air cell may be connected to an air pump by an air tube, and when air is injected, it may expand toward the seated occupant and press against the seated occupant. The air cell may be disposed at a position corresponding to the lower back of the seated occupant like a lumbar support, or may be provided at multiple points on the seat.

[0125] The vibration device may be provided in a seat cushion or a seat back projection.

[0126] The vibration device may be of any type, such as one having a motor and harness that generates vibrations, one having an eccentric motor, or one having a linear motor.

[0127] The display unit may be disposed in any position, such as an instrument panel, a center console, a steering wheel, a meter, the back of a seat, a side of a door, a decorative item, etc. The display unit may also be a projection device that projects an image. The display unit may also be a mobile terminal such as a smartphone or tablet carried by the seat occupant.

[0128] If a sensor is provided on the protruding portion of the seat, for example, when the control unit detects the motion of the protruding portion being pinched by the hand through the sensor, it may select a message to warn the driver and tilt the seat back slightly backward.

[0129] Also, the number of inputs to the sensor per predetermined time period may be measured before the character's display action is started, and the character's display pattern may be determined according to the number of inputs.

[0130] The interior components may be doors, door armrests, steering wheels, dashboards, center consoles, air conditioning vents, and the like.

[0131] The interior member may be a member that imitates a part of an animal's body, such as cat ears. The interior member may be made of a raised material.

[0132] The sensor may be a capacitive touch sensor. The touch sensors may be provided, for example, on the front end of the seat cushion, the protruding portion of the seat cushion, the protruding portion of the seat back, and the side of the headrest.

[0133] The color tone of the interior lighting, the display on the screen, the sound, etc. may be changed depending on the time the touch sensor is touched. The operation pattern of the vibrator may be changed according to the pressure value input to the touch sensor.

[0134] The control unit may move the vibrator more strongly the harder the touch sensor is pressed.The control unit may move the vibrator faster the faster the touch sensor is stroked.

[0135] The character may be an animal other than a cat, or may be an anthropomorphized character of an object, living thing, etc. The character may be set in advance, and may be, for example, an image of a deformed passenger.

[0136] The vehicle is not limited to an automobile, but may be other vehicles such as a motorcycle or a train.

[0137] The collision detection unit may be an inter-vehicle distance sensor that detects the distance between the vehicle and a vehicle ahead.

[0138] The first sensor or the second sensor may be a sensor that detects biological information (at least one of brain waves, facial expressions, gaze, breathing, heart rate, pulse, voice, and the like).

[0139] Examples of methods for manufacturing a vehicle interior system include the following methods. A manufacturing method for a vehicle system capable of sending a message from a first vehicle to a second vehicle, the first vehicle comprising at least one sensor that is provided in an interior member excluding a screen and an operation unit that operates an object on the screen and that detects contact with a user, and a first control unit, the first control unit selecting one message from a plurality of pre-stored messages based on information obtained from the sensor that changes depending on how the user touches the interior member, and transmitting the selected message to the second vehicle, the manufacturing method for a vehicle interior system comprising the steps of: attaching the sensor to the interior member; attaching the interior member and the first control unit to the first vehicle; and connecting the sensor to the control unit.

[0140] The first vehicle and the second vehicle may be able to communicate directly without going through a server.

[0141] The interior member may be any interior member other than the screen and the operation unit for operating objects on the screen.

[0142] There may be a plurality of second vehicles capable of communicating with the first vehicle. In this case, the recipient of the message may be selectable. The method of determining the recipient may be, for example, the following method. A method in which a camera captures the gestures of the passenger (pointing direction, or hand movements to indicate forward, backward, left, right, or diagonal directions) and determines who to send the message to based on the information from the camera. A method of determining the transmission partner based on information from a switch or sensor (which has a cursor button or a sensor part that determines direction) that can input forward, backward, left, right, and diagonal directions.

[0143] In addition, in the method of determining the transmission destination by gestures, etc., it is preferable to use the position information of each of the second vehicles. For example, the first control unit may determine the direction from the subject vehicle to each of the second vehicles based on the position information of the subject vehicle and the position information of each of the second vehicles, and may determine the second vehicle whose direction matches the direction specified by the occupant, which is determined from information from a camera, etc., as the transmission destination of the message.

[0144] As the message patterns, message patterns for each category such as "greetings," "thanks," "apology," "road environment," and "vehicle movement (yielding)" may be set. The sensor input pattern is not character input, but a variation in touch, i.e. a single touch generates a message and does not include input from the display.

[0145] The association between the message pattern and the sensor can also be set in advance. For example, the way of touching the sensor (interior component) to select the message "Thank you" can be selected from applying strong pressure to the sensor (the direction and strength of the pressure), drawing a circle around the sensor (the way the sensor is touched using an electrostatic sensor), touching the sensor on the door (the location where the sensor is installed), etc.

[0146] In addition, the cat may be displayed with an action of stroking the cheek in response to the message "Thank you." The cat may be displayed with an action of shrinking in response to the message "I'm sorry." By displaying not only text but also character actions on the screen, the user can feel a sense of familiarity.

[0147] In response to the message "Thank you," a cat may be displayed stroking its cheek, and the air cell of the other party's seat may be weakly activated. In response to the message "I'll go first," a vibration device on the seat back of the other party may vibrate. In response to the message "Thank you for your hard work," the air conditioner of the other party may operate its air outlet to blow air toward the occupant in the driver's seat.

[0148] In response to the message "go ahead", multiple vibration device operation patterns may be transmitted to the other vehicle in a wave-like manner. In response to the message "changing lanes", the vibration device may transmit vibrations to the other vehicle at a position corresponding to the direction of the transmitting vehicle's position (when moving from the right lane to the left lane, the right side of the seat of the other vehicle may vibrate).

[0149] The air cell may be connected to an air pump by an air tube, and may expand and press against the occupant when air is injected. The air cell may be in the lower back like a lumbar support, or multiple air cells may be provided so that the shape can be changed more locally.

[0150] The ornamentation may have a vibration device, and when the second vehicle receives the message, the ornamentation on the second vehicle may vibrate.

[0151] In the above embodiment, the color of the lighting that changes in response to the message is set to "red" for messages of "gratitude" and "blue" for messages of "apology," but the color assignment for each message can be set arbitrarily.

[0152] The first control unit may select a message based on a change in force input to the sensor (the magnitude of pressure applied to the sensor). For example, the first control unit may select the message "I'm sorry" when strong pressure is applied to the sensor. The first control unit may select the message "I'll give way" when the sensor is squeezed multiple times.

[0153] The relationship between the way the sensor is touched and the message can be set arbitrarily. For example, the first control unit may select the message "I'm sorry" when a force in the forward / backward direction is applied to the sensor. The first control unit may select the message "I'll give way" when a force in the left / right direction is applied to the sensor.

[0154] The first control unit may select a message depending on the number of fingers touching the sensor. For example, when a force in the forward / backward direction is applied to the sensor with three fingers, the message "Thank you" may be selected. In addition, the second control unit may increase the heater temperature of the other vehicle in response to the message "Thank you," or may operate a vibration device of the other vehicle in response to the message "Thank you."

[0155] The first control unit may select a message based on the number of times a force is applied to the sensor within a predetermined time (the number of inputs within a predetermined time). For example, the first control unit may select the message "I'm sorry" when the sensor receives multiple inputs quickly (e.g., three times per second), or may select the message "Thank you" when the sensor receives a slow input (e.g., once per second).

[0156] Furthermore, the multiple sensors may be attached at any desired positions. In this case, for example, the first control unit may select the message "Thank you" when the user touches a sensor on the side of the headrest. The first control unit may select the message "I'm sorry" when the user touches a sensor on the top surface of the headrest. The first control unit may select the message "No thanks" when the user touches a sensor on the back of the headrest. The first control unit may select the message "I'll go ahead" when the user touches a sensor on the door.

[0157] When the second control unit receives the first message, the second control unit may operate an electric device that is not disposed at a position corresponding to the first sensor provided in the first vehicle. For example, when the first sensor is disposed in a seat cushion, the second control unit may operate a vibration device disposed in a headrest when the second control unit receives the first message.

[0158] The type of message may be a traveling direction of the vehicle. A light may be provided at the door. The control unit may change the intensity of the light.

[0159] The first control unit may select an action of a character to be moved on the screen of the second vehicle, a vibration pattern of a vibration device of the second vehicle, and a lighting pattern of the lights of the second vehicle based on the selected message. In this case, the first control unit may transmit the message, the action, the vibration pattern, and the lighting pattern to the second control unit, and the second control unit may display the screen, operate the vibration device, and turn on the lights based on the received message, action, vibration pattern, and lighting pattern.

[0160] The elements described in the above-mentioned embodiment and modified examples may be implemented in any combination. [Explanation of symbols]

[0161] 1 Vehicle Systems 20 Decorations 21 Sensors 110 First Control Section C1 1st car C2 2nd vehicle

Claims

1. A vehicle system capable of transmitting a message from a first vehicle to a second vehicle, The first vehicle is At least one sensor that is provided in an interior member excluding the screen and an operation unit that operates an object on the screen and detects contact with a user; A first control unit, The first control unit is A vehicle system characterized by selecting one message from a plurality of pre-stored messages based on information obtained from the sensor that changes depending on how the user touches the interior member, and transmitting the selected message to the second vehicle.

2. The second vehicle is A display unit capable of displaying characters; A second control unit, The vehicle system according to claim 1 , wherein the second control unit moves the character in accordance with an action corresponding to the message acquired from the first vehicle.

3. The vehicle system according to claim 1 , wherein the interior member includes a cushion.

4. The vehicle system according to claim 3 , wherein the interior member is a decorative item attached to the first vehicle.

5. The second vehicle is A seat, An electric device provided in the seat; A second control unit, The vehicle system according to claim 1 , wherein the second control unit operates the electric device in accordance with an operation corresponding to the message acquired from the first vehicle.

6. the electric device is a vibration device that vibrates a seating surface of the seat, The vehicle system according to claim 5 , wherein the second control unit activates the vibration device with a vibration pattern corresponding to the message acquired from the first vehicle.

7. the sensor is a pressure sensor; The vehicle system according to claim 1 , wherein the first control unit selects a message based on a pressure value obtained from the pressure sensor.

8. The interior member has lighting, The vehicle system according to claim 1 , wherein the first control unit turns on the illumination in a lighting pattern corresponding to the selected message.

9. The first vehicle is A first sensor; A second sensor disposed at a position different from the first sensor, The first control unit is Selecting a first message based on a signal from the first sensor; 2. The vehicle system of claim 1, further comprising: a second message selected based on a signal from the second sensor, the second message being different from the first message.

10. The second vehicle is a first electric device disposed at a position corresponding to the first sensor provided on the first vehicle; a second electric device disposed at a position corresponding to the second sensor provided on the first vehicle; A second control unit, The second control unit is When the first message is received from the first vehicle, operating the first electric device; The vehicle system according to claim 9 , wherein the second electric device is operated when the second message is received from the first vehicle.

11. The interior member is a seat, 2. The vehicle system according to claim 1, wherein the sensor is disposed at a position avoiding a seating surface of the seat.

12. The second vehicle is A seat, A vibration device that vibrates the seating surface of the seat; A second control unit, When the first control unit predicts a collision between the first vehicle and the second vehicle based on information from a collision detection unit provided in the first vehicle, the first control unit transmits a collision message to the second vehicle to forecast a vehicle collision; The vehicle system according to claim 1 , wherein the second control unit activates the vibration device with a vibration pattern corresponding to the collision message acquired from the first vehicle.

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