Vehicle interior system
The vehicle interior system addresses the lack of entertainment in existing systems by using a control unit to execute controls based on user biological information, enhancing entertainment and managing fatigue through unintended device operations and probability adjustments.
Patent Information
- Application Number
- JP2024030130
- Authority / Receiving Office
- JP · JP
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Priority Date
- 2023-12-08
- Filing Date
- 2024-02-29
- Publication Date
- 2025-06-19
AI Technical Summary
Existing vehicle interior systems lack entertainment features, with seat movement only possible in desired directions by users.
A vehicle interior system incorporating a control unit that selects and executes first and second controls based on user biological information, allowing the system to set electric devices to unintended operating states or operate additional devices, enhancing entertainment and fatigue management.
The system enhances user entertainment by introducing unintended device operations and effectively manages fatigue by adjusting control probabilities based on user biological data, ensuring both entertainment and comfort.
Smart Images

Figure 2025092332000001_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] The present invention relates to a vehicle interior system including an electric device and a control unit.
Background Art
[0002] Conventionally, there has been known a seat system including an electric slide mechanism for sliding a seat in the front-rear direction, a forward switch for instructing forward movement of the seat, a rearward switch for instructing rearward movement of the seat, and a control unit for moving the seat in a direction desired by a user based on an instruction from the forward switch or the rearward switch (see Patent Document 1).
Prior Art Documents
Patent Documents
[0003]
Patent Document 1
Summary of the Invention
Problems to be Solved by the Invention
[0004] However, in the prior art, there has been a problem that the seat can only be moved in a direction desired by the user, lacking entertainment.
[0005] Therefore, an object of the present invention is to enhance the entertainment in a vehicle interior system including an electric device and a control unit.
Means for Solving the Problems
[0006] To solve the above problems, a vehicle interior system according to the present invention includes a first electric device that operates by energization, a second electric device that operates by energization, a first operation unit that operates the first electric device, a biological information detection unit capable of detecting biological information of a user, and a control unit. The control unit is capable of selecting and executing first control and second control. The first control is a control for setting the first electric device to a first operating state corresponding to the first operation command when the first operation command is acquired from the first operation unit. The second control is a control for setting the first electric device to a second operating state not corresponding to the first operation command and / or operating the second electric device when the first operation command is acquired from the first operation unit. The control unit changes the probability of selecting the second control based on the biological information acquired from the biological information detection unit.
[0007] According to this configuration, when the control unit executes the second control, if the user operates the first operation unit, at least one of the first electric device and the second electric device will be in an operating state unintended by the user, so the entertainment property can be enhanced. Also, since the probability of selecting the second control is changed based on the biological information, for example, when the user's fatigue level is high, the probability of selecting the second control can be lowered to suppress the user from getting irritated, or when the user's excitement level is high, the probability of selecting the second control can be increased to make the user more entertained.
[0008] Also, the control unit can estimate the user's fatigue level based on the information acquired from the biological information detection unit, and when it is determined that the fatigue level is equal to or higher than the first threshold value, the probability of selecting the second control may be lower than when it is determined that the fatigue level is lower than the first threshold value.
[0009] According to this configuration, when the fatigue level is high, the probability of selecting the second control becomes low, so it is possible to suppress a tired user from getting irritated by the second control. Also, when the fatigue level is low, the probability of selecting the second control becomes high, so a non-tired user can enjoy the second control.
[0010] In addition, the vehicle interior system further includes a third electric device that moves a part of the seating surface of the seat or generates a fragrance, and the control unit can execute a fatigue suppression process for suppressing the user's fatigue by operating the third electric device. When it is determined that the fatigue level is equal to or greater than a second threshold value that is greater than the first threshold value, the fatigue suppression process may be executed as the second control.
[0011] According to this configuration, when the fatigue level is equal to or greater than the second threshold value, the fatigue suppression process is executed, so that it is possible to achieve both the entertainment of the user and the suppression of fatigue.
[0012] In addition, the vehicle interior system further includes a display unit that displays a character, and the control unit may move the character in accordance with the operation of the first electric device or the second electric device.
[0013] According to this configuration, the character moves in accordance with the operation of the first electric device or the second electric device, so that the entertainment can be enhanced.
[0014] In addition, the control unit can estimate the excitement level of the user based on the biological information acquired from the biological information detection unit. When it is determined that the excitement level is equal to or greater than a third threshold value, the probability of selecting the second control may be increased compared to the case where it is determined that the excitement level is lower than the third threshold value.
[0015] According to this configuration, the second control is executed with a high probability for a user with a high excitement level, so that it is possible to make the user who enjoys and is excited by the second control more enjoyable.
[0016] In addition, as the second control, the control unit can select and execute a first process for setting the first electric device to a second operating state and a second process for operating the second electric device. When it is determined that the fatigue level is equal to or greater than the first threshold value, the probability of selecting the first process may be increased compared to the case where it is determined that the fatigue level is lower than the first threshold value.
[0017] Further, the first electric device is a device that moves a movable part. When the control unit obtains a command to move the movable part in a predetermined direction as a first operation command and executes second control, the first electric device may be set to a second operating state and the movable part may be moved in a direction opposite to the predetermined direction.
[0018] According to this configuration, since the movable part is moved in a direction opposite to the operation command, the user can clearly know that an incorrect operation is being performed with respect to the operation command.
[0019] Further, the third electric device may be a device that moves a part of the seating surface of the seat.
[0020] According to this configuration, in the fatigue suppression process, since a part of the seating surface of the seat moves, for example, the user can be massaged or the user's posture can be made more comfortable, and the user's fatigue can be suppressed.
[0021] Further, the third electric device may be a vibration device.
[0022] According to this configuration, in the fatigue suppression process, since the vibration of the vibration device can relax the user's body, fatigue can be relieved without changing the user's posture.
[0023] Further, the vehicle interior system further includes a collision detection unit provided in the vehicle. When the control unit predicts a collision of the vehicle based on information from the collision detection unit, the second control may not be executed.
[0024] According to this configuration, since the second control is not executed when there is a possibility of a vehicle collision, safety can be improved.
Advantages of the Invention
[0025] According to the present invention, when the control unit executes the second control, if the user operates the first operation unit, at least one of the first electric device and the second electric device will enter an operating state unintended by the user, so that the entertainment property can be enhanced. Further, since the probability of selecting the second control based on the biological information is changed, for example, when the user has a high degree of fatigue, the probability of selecting the second control is lowered to suppress the user's irritation, or when the user has a high degree of excitement, the probability of selecting the second control is increased to make the user more entertained.
[0026] Further, by adopting a configuration in which the probability of selecting the second control is lowered when the degree of fatigue is high, it is possible to suppress the irritation of a tired user caused by the second control. Also, in this configuration, since the probability of selecting the second control is increased when the degree of fatigue is low, a non-tired user can enjoy the second control.
[0027] Also, by adopting a configuration in which the fatigue suppression process is executed when the degree of fatigue is equal to or higher than the second threshold value, it is possible to achieve both the entertainment property of the user and the fatigue suppression.
[0028] Further, by adopting a configuration in which a character moves in accordance with the operation of the first electric device or the second electric device, the entertainment property can be enhanced.
[0029] Also, by adopting a configuration in which the second control is executed with a high probability for a user with a high degree of excitement, it is possible to make the user who is enjoying and excited by the second control more entertained.
[0030] Also, by adopting a configuration in which the movable part is moved in a direction opposite to the operation command, the user can clearly know that an incorrect operation is being performed with respect to the operation command.
[0031] Also, by adopting a configuration in which a part of the seating surface of the seat moves in the fatigue suppression process, for example, the user can be massaged or the user's posture can be made comfortable, and the user's fatigue can be suppressed.
[0032] In addition, by adopting a configuration in which the vibration of the vibration device relaxes the user's body in the fatigue suppression process, fatigue can be relieved without changing the user's posture.
[0033] In addition, by adopting a configuration in which the second control is not executed when there is a possibility of a vehicle collision, safety can be improved.
Brief Description of the Drawings
[0034]
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Mode for Carrying Out the Invention
[0035] [First Embodiment] Hereinafter, a first embodiment of the vehicle interior system will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. As shown in FIG. 1, the vehicle interior system 1 includes a seat 10, a camera C 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 camera C, and the monitor M are arranged at positions facing the inside of the vehicle, specifically, the passenger compartment. In the present embodiment, the seat 10 is the driver's seat or the front passenger seat.
[0036] The seat 10 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 constitute a seat body having a seating surface F. The seating surface F is a surface that contacts the user sitting on the seat 10 and supports the user.
[0037] The seat cushion 11, the seat back 12, and the headrest 13 each have a metal frame constituting a skeleton, a pad covering the frame, and a skin covering the pad. The pad is made of urethane foam or the like. The skin is made of synthetic leather, fabric, or the like.
[0038] The seat cushion 11 has a base portion 11A arranged at the left - right center and overhanging portions 11B arranged on both 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 portion 11B protrudes toward the user from the seating surface F of the base portion 11A to support the sides of the user's thighs and buttocks.
[0039] Similarly, the seat back 12 also has a base portion 12A disposed at the left and 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 user's back and supports the back from behind. The overhanging portion 12B protrudes toward the user from the seating surface F of the base portion 12A to support the side portions of the user's upper body.
[0040] The seat 10 further includes an electric reclining mechanism 21, an electric slide mechanism 30, a heartbeat sensor 41 and a respiration sensor 42 as an example of a biological information detection unit. The electric reclining mechanism 21 is an electric device that tilts the seat back 12. The electric reclining mechanism 21 includes a motor that operates when energized.
[0041] The electric slide mechanism 30 is an electric device that slides the seat 10 in the front-rear direction. Here, the seat 10 is supported by a slide rail (not shown) so as to be movable in the front-rear direction. The electric slide mechanism 30 includes a motor that operates when energized.
[0042] The heartbeat sensor 41 and the respiration sensor 42 are sensors capable of detecting the biological information of the user seated on the seat 10. In the following description, the user seated on the seat 10 is also referred to as the "seated person".
[0043] The heartbeat sensor 41 is a sensing device that non-contact measures the electrocardiogram signal of the seated person by a capacitive coupled electrode. Here, the electrocardiogram signal refers to the action potential signal generated along with the pulsation of the seated person's heart. The heartbeat sensor 41 is provided on the seat back 12. The electrocardiogram signal detected by the heartbeat sensor 41 is output to the control unit 100.
[0044] The respiration sensor 42 is provided on the seat cushion 11. The respiration sensor 42 has electrodes vertically. The respiration sensor 42 is a resistance pressure sensor (pressure sensor) that detects the current flowing through the electrical resistance that changes according to the respiration of the seated person.
[0045] Here, when the pressure applied to the upper electrode of the respiration sensor 42 causes the upper electrode to deform downward and the contact resistance increases, the electrical resistance value between the electrodes decreases. An electrical signal related to this electrical resistance value is output from the respiration sensor 42 to the control unit 100. The control unit 100 calculates the pressure based on the electrical signal related to the electrical resistance value, and obtains respiration data based on the calculated pressure.
[0046] Note that the heartbeat sensor 41 may be provided on the seat cushion 11, and the respiration sensor 42 may be provided on the seat back 12. Also, both the heartbeat sensor 41 and the respiration sensor 42 may be provided on either the seat cushion 11 or the seat back 12.
[0047] The seat 10 further includes a reclining switch 61, a slide switch 62, and a mode changeover switch 63.
[0048] The reclining switch 61 is an operation unit for operating the electric reclining mechanism 21. The reclining switch 61 is, for example, tiltable in the front-rear direction. When the reclining switch 61 is tilted forward, it outputs a forward tilt command for tilting the seat back 12 forward to the control unit 100. When the reclining switch 61 is tilted backward, it outputs a rearward tilt command for tilting the seat back 12 backward to the control unit 100.
[0049] The slide switch 62 is an operation unit for operating the electric slide mechanism 30. The slide switch 62 is, for example, slidable in the front-rear direction. When the slide switch 62 is slid forward, it outputs a forward movement command for moving the seat 10 forward to the control unit 100. When the slide switch 62 is slid backward, it outputs a backward movement command for moving the seat 10 backward to the control unit 100.
[0050] The mode changeover switch 63 is a switch for switching the mode of the control unit 100 between a first mode and a second mode. Here, the first mode is a mode in which the second control described later can be executed. Also, the second mode is a mode in which the second control is not executed. The mode changeover switch 63 is, for example, a push-button type switch. Each time the mode changeover switch 63 is pressed by the user, it alternates between an ON state and an OFF state. In the present embodiment, the mode is set to the second mode when the mode changeover switch 63 is in the OFF state, and the mode is set to the first mode when the mode changeover switch 63 is in the ON state.
[0051] The camera C is a camera that captures the front of the vehicle. The camera C is provided, for example, on the ceiling of the vehicle. The image information captured by the camera C is output to the control unit 100.
[0052] The monitor M has a screen M1 (see FIG. 2) for displaying an image. The image displayed on the monitor M can be changed by the control unit 100. The monitor M can be arranged on the dashboard so as to be located, for example, below the rearview mirror.
[0053] The control unit 100 includes a CPU, a ROM, a RAM, a rewritable non-volatile memory, etc., which are not shown in the figure, and executes a program stored in advance. The control unit 100 may be provided on the seat 10 or may be provided on a member other than the seat 10. The control unit 100 has a function of estimating the fatigue level of the seated person based on the biological information acquired from at least one of the heartbeat sensor 41 and the respiration sensor 42.
[0054] As an example, the control unit 100 measures the activity level of the sympathetic nerve of the seated person based on the heartbeat information acquired from the heartbeat sensor 41. Specifically, the control unit 100 obtains the ratio (LF / HF) of the low-frequency fluctuation wave (LF) to the high-frequency fluctuation wave (HF) in the heartbeat fluctuation as the above-described activity level of the sympathetic nerve. Then, the control unit 100 sets the above-described activity level of the sympathetic nerve (LF / HF) as the fatigue level. That is, according to the above index, it is estimated that the higher the activity of the sympathetic nerve is compared to the activity of the parasympathetic nerve, the higher the fatigue level of the seated person.
[0055] Note that the method for estimating the fatigue level of the seated person is not limited to the above example. For example, based on the information acquired from the respiration sensor 42, the control unit 100 may determine the fatigue level of the seated person based on the respiration interval and the arousal level determined based on respiration (at least a level indicating whether it is an awake state or a low-arousal state). Specifically, the shorter the respiration interval of the seated person, the higher the determined fatigue level, or when the arousal level of the seated person is in a low-arousal state, the fatigue level may be determined to be high.
[0056] Further, the control unit 100 may use the sum of the respective individual fatigue levels determined based on the activity level of the sympathetic nerve based on the heartbeat, the respiration interval, and the arousal level as the fatigue level of the seated person.
[0057] The control unit 100 is connected to the monitor M, various switches (61 to 63), the electric reclining mechanism 21, the electric slide mechanism 30, the heartbeat sensor 41, the respiration sensor 42, and the camera C. As shown in FIG. 2(a), the control unit 100 has a function of displaying, on the screen M1 of the monitor M, a seat image G1 which is an image of the seat and a cat image G2 which is an image imitating a cat as an example of a character. The control unit 100 has a function of selecting and executing the first control and the second control.
[0058] The first control is a control for setting the first electric device to a first operating state corresponding to the first operation command when the first operation command is acquired from the first operation unit. In other words, the first control is a control for operating the electric device in an operating state as intended by the user.
[0059] Specifically, when the control unit 100 executes the first control based on a command from the reclining switch 61, if the command is a forward tilt command, the electric reclining mechanism 21 is activated so that the seat back 12 tilts forward, and if the command is a rearward tilt command, the electric reclining mechanism 21 is activated so that the seat back 12 tilts rearward. In this case, the reclining switch 61 corresponds to the first operation unit, and the electric reclining mechanism 21 corresponds to the first electric device.
[0060] Also, when the control unit 100 executes the first control based on a command from the slide switch 62, if the command is a forward movement command, the electric slide mechanism 30 is activated so that the seat 10 moves forward, and if the command is a backward movement command, the electric slide mechanism 30 is activated so that the seat 10 moves backward. In this case, the slide switch 62 corresponds to the first operation unit, and the electric slide mechanism 30 corresponds to the first electric device.
[0061] The second control is a control for making the first electric device enter a second operating state that does not correspond to the first operation command or activating the second electric device when a first operation command is obtained from the first operation unit. In other words, the second control is a control for activating the electric device in an operating state contrary to the user's intention.
[0062] As the second control, the control unit 100 selects and executes at least one process from a plurality of candidates including a first process for making the first electric device enter the second operating state and a second process for activating the second electric device.
[0063] Specifically, when the control unit 100 executes the first process based on a command from the reclining switch 61, if the command is a forward tilt command, the electric reclining mechanism 21 is operated so that the seat back 12 tilts backward, and if the command is a backward tilt command, the electric reclining mechanism 21 is operated so that the seat back 12 tilts forward. Also, when the control unit 100 executes the first process based on a command from the slide switch 62, if the command is a forward movement command, the electric slide mechanism 30 is operated so that the seat 10 moves backward, and if the command is a backward movement command, the electric slide mechanism 30 is operated so that the seat 10 moves forward. That is, the control unit 100 controls the electric device so as to perform an operation opposite to the operation command in the first process.
[0064] Here, the seat back 12 and the seat 10 correspond to a movable part that is at least a part of the seat 10. When the control unit 100 obtains a command to move the movable part in a predetermined direction as the first operation command and executes the second control (first process), the first electric device is set to the second operating state, and the movable part is moved in a direction opposite to the predetermined direction.
[0065] When the control unit 100 executes the second process based on a command from the reclining switch 61, regardless of the content of the command, the electric slide mechanism 30, which is an electric device different from the electric reclining mechanism 21, is operated to move the seat 10 forward or backward. When the control unit 100 executes the second process based on a command from the slide switch 62, regardless of the content of the command, the electric reclining mechanism 21, which is an electric device different from the electric slide mechanism 30, is operated to tilt the seat back 12 forward or backward.
[0066] The control unit 100 has a function of changing the probability of selecting the first control and the probability of selecting the second control based on the estimated fatigue level. Specifically, when the fatigue level W is greater than or equal to the first threshold TH1, the control unit 100 increases the probability of selecting the first control compared to the case where the fatigue level W is less than the first threshold TH1. Also, when the control unit 100 determines that the fatigue level W is greater than or equal to the first threshold TH1, it decreases the probability of selecting the second control compared to the case where it determines that the fatigue level W is lower than the first threshold TH1.
[0067] Specifically, the control unit 100 sets the probability of selecting the first control and the probability of selecting the second control based on the map shown in Fig. 3(a). Note that the numerical values shown in this specification, such as Fig. 3 and Fig. 4, are examples and can be arbitrarily changed.
[0068] When the fatigue level W is less than the first threshold TH1, the control unit 100 sets the probability of selecting the first control to 50% and the probability of selecting the second control to 50%.
[0069] When the fatigue level W is greater than or equal to the first threshold TH1 and less than the second threshold TH2, the control unit 100 sets the probability of selecting the first control to 70% and the probability of selecting the second control to 30%. Here, the second threshold TH2 is greater than the first threshold TH1. When the fatigue level W is greater than or equal to the second threshold TH2, the control unit 100 sets the probability of selecting the first control to 90% and the probability of selecting the second control to 10%.
[0070] The control unit 100 has a function of changing the number of a plurality of candidates selectable as the second control based on the fatigue level W. Specifically, when the fatigue level W is lower than the threshold, the control unit 100 sets the number of candidates to a first value, and when the fatigue level W is greater than or equal to the threshold, the control unit 100 sets the number of candidates to a second value smaller than the first value.
[0071] Specifically, when the fatigue level W is less than the first threshold value TH1, the control unit 100 sets the probability of selecting the first process to 40% and the probability of selecting the second process to 10% based on the map shown in FIG. 3(a). When the fatigue level W is equal to or greater than the first threshold value TH1 and less than the second threshold value TH2, the control unit 100 sets the probability of selecting the first process to 30% and the probability of selecting the second process to 0%. When the fatigue level W is equal to or greater than the second threshold value TH2, the control unit 100 sets the probability of selecting the first process to 10% and the probability of selecting the second process to 0%.
[0072] The maps of FIGS. 3(b), 4(a), and 4(b) show the map of FIG. 3(a) in detail. The control unit 100 sets each probability based on the maps of FIGS. 3(b), 4(a), and 4(b).
[0073] FIG. 3(b) is a map referred to by the control unit 100 when the fatigue level W is less than the first threshold value TH1. The numerical values in the column indicated by the slanted hatching in the figure are the probabilities (%) of selecting the first control, the numerical values in the column indicated by the dot hatching are the probabilities (%) of selecting the first process as the second control, and the numerical values in the column without hatching are the probabilities (%) of selecting the second process as the second control.
[0074] When the fatigue level W is less than the first threshold value TH1, the candidates that can be selected as the second control for one operation command (for example, reclining forward) are one first process and two second processes. That is, when the fatigue level W is less than the first threshold value TH1, the number of multiple candidates that can be selected as the second control is three.
[0075] On the other hand, as shown in FIGS. 4(a) and 4(b), when the fatigue level W is equal to or greater than the first threshold value TH1, the probabilities of selecting the two second processes are both set to 0%. Therefore, the candidates that can be selected as the second control for one operation command (for example, reclining forward) are only one first process. Therefore, when the fatigue level W is equal to or greater than the first threshold value TH1, the number of multiple candidates that can be selected as the second control is one.
[0076] As a result, when the control unit 100 determines that the fatigue level W is equal to or higher than the first threshold value TH1, the probability of selecting the first process in the second control is higher than when it determines that the fatigue level W is lower than the first threshold value TH1. That is, when the second control is selected when the fatigue level W is lower than the first threshold value TH1, since the ratio of each process of the second control is 40:5:5, the first process is selected with a probability of 80%. However, when the second control is selected when the fatigue level W is equal to or higher than the first threshold value TH1, since the ratio of each process of the second control is 30:0:0 or 10:0:0, the first process is selected with a probability of 100%.
[0077] As shown in FIGS. 3(b), 4(a), and 4(b), as the fatigue level W increases, the control unit 100 gradually increases the probability of selecting the first control in the order of 50%, 70%, and 90%, and gradually decreases the probability of selecting the first process of the second control in the order of 40%, 30%, and 10%. Since the first control is a control for moving the first electric device with an operation corresponding to an operation command, and the first process is a process for moving the first electric device with an operation not corresponding to the operation command, the control unit 100 changes the operation of the first electric device based on the fatigue level W. That is, as the fatigue level W increases, the control unit 100 changes the operation of the first electric device based on the fatigue level W so that the first electric device is moved with the correct operation with a high probability.
[0078] When executing the first control or the second control, the control unit 100 has a function of moving a character in accordance with the operation of the first electric device or the second electric device.
[0079] The control unit 100 has a function of predicting a collision of the vehicle based on the information from the camera C shown in FIG. 1. When the control unit 100 predicts a collision of the vehicle, it has a function of not executing the second control. For example, when the control unit 100 predicts a collision of the vehicle in the first mode, it does not execute the second control by switching the mode to the second mode.
[0080] Next, the operation of the control unit 100 will be described in detail. The control unit 100 repeatedly executes the process shown in FIG. 5. In the process of FIG. 5, the control unit 100 first determines whether the mode switch 63 is ON (S1). If it is determined in step S1 that the mode switch 63 is not ON (No), the control unit 100 sets the mode to the second mode (S9) and ends this process.
[0081] If it is determined in step S1 that the mode switch 63 is ON (Yes), the control unit 100 determines whether there is a possibility that the vehicle will collide based on the information from the camera C (S2). If it is determined in step S2 that there is a possibility of a vehicle collision (Yes), the control unit 100 sets the mode to the second mode (S9) and ends this process.
[0082] If it is determined in step S2 that there is no possibility of a vehicle collision (No), the control unit 100 sets the mode to the first mode (S3). After step S3, the control unit 100 displays the home screen on screen M1 (S4). Here, the home screen can be, for example, an image including an image of a cat sitting beside the seat and an image of characters indicating the content of the mode such as "Cat Mode".
[0083] After step S4, the control unit 100 determines whether there is an operation command (S5). If it is determined in step S5 that there is no operation command (No), the control unit 100 ends this process.
[0084] If it is determined in step S5 that there is an operation command (Yes), the control unit 100 estimates the fatigue level W based on the information from at least one of the heart rate sensor 41 and the respiration sensor 42, and sets the probabilities of selecting each process (the first control, the first process as the second control, and the second process as the second control) based on the estimated fatigue level W and the operation command (S6). Specifically, in step S6, the control unit 100 selects one of the maps shown in FIGS. 3(b), 4(a), and (b) based on the fatigue level W, and sets each probability based on the selected map and the operation command.
[0085] After step S6, the control unit 100 randomly selects a process with each set probability (S7). After step S7, the control unit 100 displays an image corresponding to the selected process on the screen M1 (S8) and ends this process. Specifically, for example, when the process of tilting the seat back 12 backward by the electric reclining mechanism 21 is selected in step S7, the control unit 100 displays a video of a cat falling backward on the seat back on the screen M1 as shown in FIG. 2(a), and as shown in FIG. 2(b), operates the electric reclining mechanism 21 to actually tilt the seat back 12 backward. Although illustration is omitted, similarly, when the process of tilting the seat back 12 forward, the process of moving the seat 10 forward, or the process of moving the seat 10 backward is selected, an image corresponding to the content of the process is displayed, and the seat 10 moves with an operation corresponding to the content of the process.
[0086] Next, a specific example of the operation of the control unit 100 will be described. In the following description, the map in FIG. 3(b) is also referred to as the "first map", the map in FIG. 4(a) is also referred to as the "second map", and the map in FIG. 4(b) is also referred to as the "third map".
[0087] When the mode is the first mode and the fatigue degree W is less than the first threshold value TH1, and a forward tilt command is output from the reclining switch 61, the control unit 100 selects the first map in FIG. 3(b) and sets the probabilities of each process corresponding to the forward tilt command. Specifically, the control unit 100 sets the probability that the process of tilting the seat back 12 forward by the electric reclining mechanism 21 (first control) is selected to 50%, the probability that the process of tilting the seat back 12 backward by the electric reclining mechanism 21 (first process) is selected to 40%, the probability that the process of moving the seat 10 forward by the electric slide mechanism 30 (second process) is selected to 5%, and the probability that the process of moving the seat 10 backward by the electric slide mechanism 30 (second process) is selected to 5%.
[0088] Thereafter, the control unit 100 randomly selects a process with each set probability. For example, when the control unit 100 selects a process (first process) of reclining the seat back 12 by the electric reclining mechanism 21, it displays the video shown in FIG. 2(a) on the screen M1 and reclines the seat back 12 by the electric reclining mechanism 21.
[0089] When the mode is the first mode and the fatigue level W is equal to or greater than the first threshold TH1 and less than the second threshold TH2, and a forward tilt command is output from the reclining switch 61, the control unit 100 selects the second map in FIG. 4(a) and sets the probabilities of the respective processes corresponding to the forward tilt command. Specifically, the control unit 100 sets the probability that the process (first control) of tilting the seat back 12 forward by the electric reclining mechanism 21 is selected to 70%, the probability that the process (first process) of tilting the seat back 12 backward by the electric reclining mechanism 21 is selected to 30%, the probability that the process (second process) of moving the seat 10 forward by the electric slide mechanism 30 is selected to 0%, and the probability that the process (second process) of moving the seat 10 backward by the electric slide mechanism 30 is selected to 0%.
[0090] Thus, when the fatigue level W is equal to or greater than the first threshold TH1 and less than the second threshold TH2, the probability that the first control is selected becomes higher compared to the case where the fatigue level W is less than the first threshold TH1, and the processes selected as the second control are limited to only the first process.
[0091] When the mode is the first mode and the fatigue level W is equal to or higher than the second threshold value TH2, if a forward tilt command is output from the reclining switch 61, the control unit 100 selects the third map in Fig. 4(b) and sets the probabilities of the respective processes corresponding to the forward tilt command. Specifically, the control unit 100 sets the probability that the process of tilting the seat back 12 forward (first control) by the electric reclining mechanism 21 is selected to 90%, the probability that the process of tilting the seat back 12 backward (first process) by the electric reclining mechanism 21 is selected to 10%, the probability that the process of moving the seat 10 forward (second process) by the electric slide mechanism 30 is selected to 0%, and the probability that the process of moving the seat 10 backward (second process) by the electric slide mechanism 30 is selected to 0%.
[0092] As described above, when the fatigue level W is equal to or higher than the second threshold value TH2, the probability that the first control is selected is higher than when the fatigue level W is equal to or higher than the first threshold value TH1 and lower than the second threshold value TH2.
[0093] As described above, according to the present embodiment, the following effects can be obtained. When the control unit 100 executes the second control, if the user operates the first operation unit, the first electric device or the second electric device enters an operating state unintended by the user, so that the entertainment property can be enhanced. Further, since the probability of selecting the second control is changed based on the fatigue level W, when the user's fatigue level is high, the probability of selecting the second control can be decreased to suppress the user from getting irritated.
[0094] In addition, when the fatigue level W is low, the probability of selecting the second control increases, so that a user who is not tired can enjoy the second control.
[0095] Since the character moves in accordance with the operation of the first electric device or the second electric device, the entertainment property can be enhanced.
[0096] When the fatigue level W exceeds the threshold value, the number of processes selected as the second control decreases, so that the user can be prevented from getting irritated.
[0097] In the first process, since the movable part is moved in the direction opposite to the operation command, the user can clearly know that an incorrect operation is being performed with respect to the operation command.
[0098] When there is a possibility of a vehicle collision, the second control is not executed, so safety can be improved.
[0099] [Second Embodiment] Next, the second embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with appropriate reference to the drawings. Note that, since this embodiment is a modification of a part of the structure of the vehicle interior system according to the first embodiment described above, the same reference numerals will be given to the same configurations and processes as those in the first embodiment, and the description thereof will be omitted.
[0100] As shown in FIG. 6, the vehicle interior system 201 according to the second embodiment further includes a plurality of vibration devices 23 and an air conditioner 300 in addition to the configuration of the first embodiment.
[0101] The vibration device 23 is an example of a third electric device, and by vibrating when energized, only a part of the seating surface F of the seat 10 is reciprocally operated. Four vibration devices 23 are provided in the seat cushion 11, and six vibration devices 23 are provided in the seat back 12.
[0102] Specifically, in the seat cushion 11, a set of vibration devices 23 arranged side by side in the left - right direction are arranged side by side in the front - rear direction. In the seat back 12, a set of vibration devices 23 arranged side by side in the left - right direction are arranged side by side in the up - down direction. The vibration device 23 is, for example, embedded in the pad.
[0103] The air conditioner 300 is an electric device that discharges heated air or cooled air into the vehicle interior from an air outlet 310 provided on a dashboard or the like.
[0104] The control unit 100 according to the second embodiment has a function of estimating the excitement level of the seated person. As a method for estimating the excitement level, for example, a method of estimating based on information from a second camera that captures the face of the seated person, a voice acquisition unit (microphone) that acquires the voice of the seated person, etc. can be mentioned. Specifically, for example, based on the information from the second camera, the control unit 100 determines whether the seated person is smiling, and if it is determined that the person is smiling, it can be determined that the excitement level E is equal to or higher than the third threshold value TH3. Also, based on the information from the voice acquisition unit, the control unit 100 determines whether the volume of the voice of the seated person is equal to or higher than a threshold value, and if it is determined that the volume of the voice is equal to or higher than the threshold value, it can be determined that the excitement level E is equal to or higher than the third threshold value TH3. In this case, the second camera or the voice acquisition unit corresponds to the biological information detection unit.
[0105] When the control unit 100 determines that the excitement level E is equal to or higher than the third threshold value TH3, it has a function of increasing the probability of selecting the second control compared to when it determines that the excitement level E is lower than the third threshold value TH3. The control unit 100 can execute a fatigue suppression process for suppressing the user's fatigue by operating the vibration device 23. When the control unit 100 determines that the fatigue level W is equal to or higher than the second threshold value TH2, it can execute the fatigue suppression process as the second control.
[0106] Specifically, the control unit 100 according to the second embodiment refers to a first map, a second map, a third map different from the first embodiment, and a new fourth map, and selects a process. The control unit 100 selects one map from the four maps based on the fatigue level W and the excitement level E.
[0107] When the fatigue level W is less than the first threshold value TH1, the control unit 100 selects either the first map or the fourth map based on the excitement level E. Specifically, when the control unit 100 determines that the excitement level E is less than the third threshold value TH3, it selects the first map. When the control unit 100 determines that the excitement level E is equal to or higher than the third threshold value TH3, it selects the fourth map.
[0108] When the fatigue level W is equal to or higher than the first threshold value TH1, the control unit 100 selects either the second map or the third map based only on the fatigue level W without referring to the excitement level E. Specifically, when TH1 ≤ W < TH2, the control unit 100 selects the second map. When W ≥ TH2, the control unit 100 selects the third map.
[0109] In addition to the first map in Fig. 3(b), three second processes are newly added to each of the four maps according to the second embodiment.
[0110] The newly added second processes are the following three processes. 1. A process of operating the vibration device 23 (fatigue suppression process). 2. A process of sending out the heated air from the air conditioner 300 to raise the temperature inside the vehicle. 3. A process of sending out the cooled air from the air conditioner 300 to lower the temperature inside the vehicle.
[0111] In the first map, the probability of selecting the first control is set to 50%, the probability of selecting the first process is set to 30%, the probability of selecting the fatigue suppression process is set to 0%, and the probability of selecting each of the other four second processes is set to 5% respectively. As a result, in the second embodiment, when the excitement level E is less than the third threshold value TH3 and the fatigue level W is less than the first threshold value TH1, the number of multiple candidates selectable as the second control is five. Also, in the second embodiment, when the excitement level E is less than the third threshold value TH3 and the fatigue level W is less than the first threshold value TH1, in addition to the multiple electric devices provided on the seat 10, the control unit 100 also targets the electric device (air conditioner) provided on the interior member (dashboard) other than the seat 10 for the second control.
[0112] In the second map, the probability of selecting two second processes for operating the air conditioner 300 is set to 0% for both, as compared with the first map. As a result, when the fatigue level W satisfies TH1 ≦ W < TH2, the number of multiple candidates selectable as the second control is three. Also, in the second embodiment, when the fatigue level W satisfies TH1 ≦ W < TH2, the control unit 100 targets only the electric devices provided on the seat 10 as the second control.
[0113] In the third map, among the five second processes, four processes other than the process of operating the vibration device 23 (fatigue suppression process) are each set to 0%, and the first process and the fatigue suppression process are each set to 5%. As a result, when the fatigue level W is equal to or higher than the second threshold value TH2, the number of multiple candidates selectable as the second control is two. That is, in the second embodiment, when the control unit 100 selects the second control when the fatigue level W is equal to or higher than the second threshold value TH2, the first process and the fatigue suppression process are each selected at a rate of 50%.
[0114] In the fourth map, the probability of selecting the first control is set to 0%, and the probability of selecting the second control is set to 100%. As for the distribution of each process of the second control, the first process is set to 50%, and each of the five second processes is set to 10%.
[0115] The control unit 100 executes the process of FIG. 11. The process of FIG. 11 is obtained by adding a new process of step S31 instead of the process of step S6 of FIG. 5.
[0116] When the control unit 100 determines that there is an operation command in step S5 (Yes), it estimates the fatigue level W and the excitement level E, and based on the estimated fatigue level W and excitement level E and the operation command, selects one of the first map, the second map, the third map, and the fourth map, and sets each probability based on the selected map and the operation command (S31). After step S31, the control unit 100 randomly selects a process with each set probability (S7).
[0117] According to the second embodiment described above, the following effects can be obtained. When the fatigue degree W is equal to or higher than the second threshold value TH2, the fatigue suppression process is executed, so that it is possible to achieve both the entertainment of the user and the suppression of fatigue.
[0118] When the excitement degree E is equal to or higher than the third threshold value TH3, the second control is executed with a high probability (100%), so that it is possible to make the user who is enjoying the second control and is excited enjoy it more.
[0119] In the fatigue suppression process, since a part of the seating surface F of the seat 10 moves, the user can be massaged and the user's fatigue can be suppressed. In the present embodiment, in the fatigue suppression process, since the vibration of the vibration device 23 can relax the user's body, fatigue relaxation can be performed without changing the user's posture.
[0120] As shown in FIG. 12, the control unit 100 may execute the first control or the second control based on an operation command from an operation unit for operating the air conditioner 300. That is, the control unit 100 may execute the first control or the second control based on an operation command from an operation unit for operating an electric device provided in an interior member other than the seat 10.
[0121] Specifically, when the control unit 100 obtains a command to increase the vehicle interior temperature as the first operation command and executes the second control, the air conditioner 300 may be set to the second operating state to lower the vehicle interior temperature. Further, when the control unit 100 obtains a command to lower the vehicle interior temperature as the first operation command and executes the second control, the air conditioner 300 may be set to the second operating state to raise the vehicle interior temperature.
[0122] Also, as shown in FIG. 12, when the fatigue degree W is less than the first threshold value TH1 and the excitement degree E is less than the third threshold value TH3, the control unit 100 may be capable of executing the fatigue suppression process. Although illustration is omitted, when TH1 ≦ W < TH2, the control unit 100 may also be capable of executing the fatigue suppression process. In these cases, as the fatigue degree increases, the ratio of selecting the fatigue suppression process may be increased.
[0123] The third electric device may be a device that moves a part of the seating surface of the seat. For example, it may be an electric reclining mechanism, a mechanism for moving an ottoman, an air cell, or the like. Further, the third electric device may be a device that generates a fragrance when energized.
[0124] The estimation of the excitement level may be, for example, a method of determining that the excitement level is equal to or higher than a third threshold value when it is determined that the heart rate is equal to or higher than a predetermined value.
[0125] The second control may be the following control. · When an operation to close the window part is performed, control in which the heater is activated or the heated air is discharged from the air conditioner. · When an input to recline backward is performed, control in which the ottoman rises. · Control in which the electric device operates in the direction opposite to the operation input (for example, when an operation to move the ottoman in a predetermined direction is performed, control in which the ottoman moves in the direction opposite to the predetermined direction. For example, when an operation to close the window part is performed, control in which the window part opens. For example, when an operation to increase the temperature of the seat heater is performed, control in which the temperature of the seat heater decreases.).
[0126] The fatigue suppression process may be the following process. · When an operation to recline backward is performed, a process in which the air cell expands and contracts to perform a massage operation. · When an operation to open the window part is performed, a process in which the seat blower is activated.
[0127] The electric device to be operated in the second control is not limited to one, and may be a plurality. For example, in the second control, the control unit may set the first electric device to the second operating state and operate the second electric device.
[0128] The interior member may be an instrument panel, a center console, a steering wheel, an inner panel of a door, or the like.
[0129] When the control unit predicts a vehicle collision, it may execute a collision prediction notification process to notify the user of the possibility of a vehicle collision.
[0130] The electric device may be the device shown below. · A height mechanism that moves the seat in the vertical direction · A movable device that deforms the seat shape by driving a bag body (air cell) that operates by inflowing air or a plate member (for example, a device that operates the left and right protrusions protruding from the seating surface of the seat cushion or seat back, a device that operates a part of the seating surface of the seat back or seat cushion) · A side frame front end rising mechanism that switches between an up position where the front end of the side frame of the seat cushion is raised and a down position where it is lowered · A tilt mechanism that moves the cushion pan of the seat cushion up and down · A middle fold mechanism that tilts the upper part of the seat back back and forth · A rotation mechanism that rotates the seat around a vertical axis · A cushion front - rear adjustment mechanism that adjusts the length of the front end of the seat cushion · A mechanism that rotates the ottoman up and down or moves it back and forth · A mechanism that rotates the armrest up and down · A mechanism that expands and contracts the armrest · A mechanism that switches between a state where the armrest is extended and a state where it is bent · Lighting · A headrest speaker (the headrest speaker may rotate or move in at least one direction of front - rear, left - right, up - down). · A heater provided in the seat back or seat cushion · A seat blower which is a seat air - conditioning device that makes the air on the surfaces of the seat cushion and seat back flow · A window drive device that drives the window
[0131] The air cell is connected by an air pump and an air tube, and may expand and press toward the occupant side when air is injected. The air cell may be at the waist like a lumbar support, or a plurality of air cells may be provided on the seat, and the shape may be changed more locally.
[0132] The vibration device may be any device having a motor that generates vibration and a harness, a device having an eccentric motor, a device having a linear motor, etc. The vibration device may be provided on a seat cushion, a headrest, etc. The vibration device may be provided on the overhanging portions on the left and right of the seat cushion or the seat back.
[0133] The display unit may be arranged at any position such as an instrument panel, a center console, a steering wheel, a meter, the back of the seat, the side of the door, a decorative item, etc. Also, the display unit may be a projection device that projects an image. The display unit may be a portable terminal such as a smartphone or a tablet possessed by the seated person.
[0134] The movable part (at least a part of the seat) may be a member imitating a part of an animal's body such as cat ears. The movable part may be composed of a fluff member. The movable part may be an interior member other than the seat, for example, a window of a vehicle.
[0135] The character may be an animal other than a cat, a living thing such as a plant, or a character that anthropomorphizes objects or living things. The character can be preset, and may be, for example, an image that deforms the occupant.
[0136] The vehicle is not limited to an automobile, and may be other vehicles such as a two-wheeled vehicle, a train, etc.
[0137] The collision detection unit may be an inter-vehicle distance sensor that detects the distance between the host vehicle and the vehicle ahead.
[0138] Examples of the manufacturing method of the vehicle interior system include the following methods. A first electric device that operates by energization, a second electric device that operates by energization, a first operation unit that operates the first electric device, a biological information detection unit that can detect a user's biological information, and a control unit, wherein when the control unit acquires a first operation command from the first operation unit, the first control for setting the first electric device to a first operating state corresponding to the first operation command, and when the control unit acquires the first operation command from the first operation unit, setting the first electric device to a second operating state not corresponding to the first operation command, and / or a second control for operating the second electric device, can be selected and executed, and a method for manufacturing a vehicle interior system that changes the probability of selecting the second control based on biological information acquired from the biological information detection unit, the method for manufacturing a vehicle interior system comprising a step of connecting the first electric device, the second electric device, the first operation unit, and the biological information detection unit to the control unit.
[0139] Each element described in the above-described embodiments and modifications may be arbitrarily combined and implemented.
Explanation of Reference Numerals
[0140] 1 Vehicle interior system 21 Electric reclining mechanism 30 Electric slide mechanism 41 Heart rate sensor 42 Respiration sensor 61 Reclining switch 100 Control unit
Claims
1. a first electric device that is activated by energization; a second electric device that is activated by energization; A first operation unit that operates the first electric device; A biological information detection unit capable of detecting biological information of a user; A control unit, The control unit is a first control that, when a first operation command is acquired from the first operation unit, causes the first electric device to be in a first operating state corresponding to the first operation command; a second control for selectively putting the first electric device into a second operating state not corresponding to the first operating command and / or for operating the second electric device when the first operation command is acquired from the first operation unit; A vehicle interior system, characterized in that a probability of selecting the second control is changed based on the biological information acquired from the biological information detection unit.
2. The control unit is The fatigue level of the user can be estimated based on the information acquired from the biological information detection unit, The vehicle interior system according to claim 1, characterized in that when the fatigue level is determined to be equal to or higher than a first threshold, the probability of selecting the second control is lower than when the fatigue level is determined to be lower than the first threshold.
3. Further comprising a third electric device for moving a part of the seating surface of the seat or for emitting a fragrance; The control unit is A fatigue reduction process for reducing fatigue of a user can be executed by operating the third electric device, 3. The vehicle interior system according to claim 2, wherein the fatigue suppression process is executed as the second control when it is determined that the fatigue level is equal to or greater than a second threshold value that is greater than the first threshold value.
4. Further comprising a display unit for displaying a character, The control unit is The vehicle interior system according to claim 2 , wherein the character is moved in accordance with an operation of the first electric device or the second electric device.
5. The control unit is The excitement level of the user can be estimated based on the biological information acquired from the biological information detection unit, The vehicle interior system according to claim 1, characterized in that when the excitement level is determined to be equal to or higher than a third threshold, the probability of selecting the second control is higher than when the excitement level is determined to be lower than the third threshold.
6. The control unit is As the second control, a first process of putting the first electric device in the second operating state and a second process of operating the second electric device can be selectively executed, 3. The vehicle interior system according to claim 2, characterized in that when it is determined that the fatigue level is equal to or higher than the first threshold, the probability of selecting the first process is made higher than when it is determined that the fatigue level is lower than the first threshold.
7. the first electric device is a device for moving a movable part, The vehicle interior system according to claim 1, characterized in that when the control unit obtains a command to move the movable part in a predetermined direction as the first operation command and executes the second control, it puts the first electric device into the second operating state and moves the movable part in a direction opposite to the predetermined direction.
8. The vehicle interior system according to claim 3 , wherein the third electric device is a device that moves a part of a seating surface of a seat.
9. The vehicle interior system according to claim 8 , wherein the third electrically-driven device is a vibration device.
10. The vehicle further includes a collision detection unit, 2. The vehicle interior system according to claim 1, wherein the control unit does not execute the second control when a vehicle collision is predicted based on information from the collision detection unit.
Citation Information
Patent Citations
Seat for vehicle
JP2022185254A