Vehicle system

Abstract

To provide a vehicle system that can obtain holdability suitable for impact.SOLUTION: A vehicle system 1 comprises a vehicle body frame CF that supports a seat 10, impact absorbing means (a suspension device SP) arranged between a road surface and the vehicle body frame CF, an electric device (an air cell 22) that moves a portion of a surface close to a seated person of the seat 10, and a control part 100. The impact absorbing means absorbs impact from the road surface. The impact absorbing means can change a degree of impact absorption. The control part 100 operates the electric device on the basis of the degree of impact absorption.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a vehicle system including shock absorbing means for absorbing shocks from a road surface and a control unit.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, as a vehicle system, there is known one including a first suspension interposed between a seat and a vehicle body, a second suspension interposed between the vehicle body and wheels, stroke detection means for detecting the maximum and minimum strokes of the second suspension, and first suspension control means for controlling in a direction to reduce the rigidity of the first suspension when the maximum or minimum stroke is detected by the stroke detection means (see Patent Document 1). According to this technique, when a strong shock is applied from the wheels to the vehicle body depending on the state of the second suspension, the rigidity of the first suspension is reduced, so that the shock from the vehicle body to the seat can be alleviated.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, in the conventional technique, only the rigidity of the first suspension is changed depending on the state of the second suspension, and the shape of the seating surface of the seat does not change, so that a holding property suitable for shocks cannot be obtained.

[0005] Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a vehicle system capable of obtaining a holding property suitable for shocks.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] In order to solve the above problems, a vehicle system according to the present invention includes a vehicle body frame that supports a seat, shock absorption means disposed between a road surface and the vehicle body frame, an electric device that moves a part of the seating surface side of the seat, and a control unit. The shock absorption means absorbs shocks from the road surface. The shock absorption means can change the degree of shock absorption. The control unit operates the electric device based on the degree of shock absorption.

[0007] According to this configuration, since the electric device is operated based on the degree of shock absorption, the seating surface side of the seat can be formed into a shape suitable for shocks, and a hold property suitable for shocks can be obtained.

[0008] Further, the electric device is an air cell, and the control unit may change the size of the air cell based on the degree of shock absorption.

[0009] According to this configuration, for example, when the degree of shock absorption is low and the size of the air cell is increased, the seat becomes hard and shocks are more likely to be transmitted to the seat, so that the user sitting on the seat can understand the state of the shock absorption means.

[0010] Further, the seat has a seat cushion and a seat back, and the seat cushion and / or the seat back have a seating surface that supports a seated person and protruding portions that are located on the left and right of the seating surface and protrude from the seating surface. The protruding portions may have air cells.

[0011] According to this configuration, for example, when the degree of shock absorption is low and the size of the air cell is increased, the user-side surface of the protruding portion moves toward the user and contacts the user, so that the hold property can be enhanced.

[0012] Further, the shock absorption means is a suspension device of the vehicle, and the change in the degree of shock absorption is performed by adjusting the damping force of the suspension device. When the damping force is less than a predetermined value, the control unit positions the inner surface, which is the seat occupant side surface of the protruding portion, at the first position by setting the air cell to the first shape. When the damping force is equal to or greater than the predetermined value, the control unit may position the inner surface at the second position closer to the occupant than the first position by setting the air cell to the second shape that is more inflated than the first shape.

[0013] According to this configuration, when the damping force is equal to or greater than the predetermined value, the user is supported by the inner surface positioned at the second position, so that the holding property can be enhanced.

[0014] Further, the vehicle system further includes a display unit that displays an image of a character and the shock absorption means. When the degree of shock absorption is changed, the control unit may display, on the display unit, an image in which the character changes the degree of shock absorption.

[0015] According to this configuration, since the user has an illusion as if the character is changing the degree of shock absorption, the entertainment property is improved.

[0016] Further, the seat further has a vibration device, and the control unit may change the intensity of the vibration of the vibration device based on the degree of shock absorption.

[0017] According to this configuration, since the intensity of the vibration of the vibration device is changed based on the degree of shock absorption, the user can understand that the degree of shock absorption has changed by the intensity of the vibration. For example, when the degree of shock absorption is low, by increasing the intensity of the vibration, the user can intuitively understand that the degree of shock absorption has changed by the intensity of the vibration.

[0018] Further, the protruding portion has a vibration device, and the control unit may operate the vibration device when the inner surface moves in a direction closer to the occupant by the air cell.

[0019] Further, the protruding portion has a sensor that detects that the inner surface is in contact with the seated person, and the control unit may determine the size of the air cell based on the information obtained from the sensor when the inner surface moves in the direction approaching the seated person by the air cell.

[0020] Also, the sensor is a pressure sensor, and the control unit may operate the vibration device when the pressure value obtained from the sensor exceeds a threshold value.

[0021] According to this configuration, since the vibration device operates when the protruding portion is in close contact with the user, the vibration can be reliably transmitted to the user.

[0022] Also, the shock absorption means is an adjustment device that adjusts the hardness of the tire, and the change in the degree of shock absorption may be performed by adjusting the hardness of the tire.

[0023] Further, the vehicle system may further include an operation unit operated by the seated person, and the operation unit for changing the degree of shock absorption of the shock absorption means.

Advantages of the Invention

[0024] According to the present invention, since the electric device is operated based on the degree of shock absorption, the surface on the seated person side of the seat can be made into a shape suitable for shock, and a hold property suitable for shock can be obtained.

[0025] Also, by adopting a configuration in which the size of the air cell is changed based on the degree of shock absorption, for example, when the degree of shock absorption is low and the size of the air cell is increased, the seat becomes hard and the shock is easily transmitted to the seat, so that the user sitting on the seat can understand the state of the shock absorption means.

[0026] Also, by adopting a configuration in which the protruding portion has an air cell, for example, when the degree of shock absorption is low and the size of the air cell is increased, the surface on the user side of the protruding portion moves toward the user side and contacts the user, so that the hold property can be enhanced.

[0027] In addition, by adopting a configuration in which the inner surface of the protruding portion is positioned at the second position when the damping force is equal to or greater than a predetermined value, the user is supported by the inner surface positioned at the second position when the damping force is equal to or greater than the predetermined value, so that the holding property can be enhanced.

[0028] In addition, by adopting a configuration in which an image in which a character changes the shock absorption degree is displayed by a display unit when the shock absorption degree is changed, the user has an illusion as if the character is changing the shock absorption degree, so that the entertainment property is improved.

[0029] In addition, by adopting a configuration in which the intensity of vibration of the vibration device is changed based on the shock absorption degree, the user can understand that the shock absorption degree has changed from the intensity of vibration.

[0030] In addition, by adopting a configuration in which the vibration device is operated when the pressure value acquired from the sensor of the protruding portion exceeds a threshold value, the vibration device operates when the protruding portion is in close contact with the user, so that the vibration can be surely transmitted to the user.

Brief Description of Drawings

[0031]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Figure 7

Figure 8

Figure 9

Figure 10

Figure 11

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0032] [First Embodiment] Hereinafter, a first embodiment of a vehicle system will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. As shown in FIG. 1, the vehicle system 1 includes a vehicle body frame CF, a suspension device SP as an example of shock absorption means, a monitor M as an example of a display unit, an operation unit SW, a seat 10 on which a user can sit, and a control unit 100. The suspension device SP, the monitor M, the seat 10, and the control unit 100 are supported by the vehicle body frame CF.

[0033] The suspension device SP is a suspension that absorbs shocks from the road surface and is disposed between the road surface and the vehicle body frame CF. Specifically, the suspension device SP is disposed between the tire T and the vehicle body frame CF. The suspension device SP can change the shock absorption degree by adjusting air pressure, magnetic fluid, hydraulic pressure, etc. As the suspension device SP that can change the shock absorption degree, for example, the suspension described in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2000-280806 can be adopted. The change in the shock absorption degree is performed by adjusting the damping force of the suspension device SP.

[0034] The monitor M has a screen M1 (see FIG. 4) 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 so as to be located, for example, under the rearview mirror.

[0035] As shown in FIG. 2, the operation unit SW is an operation unit operated by the occupant of the seat 10, and is an operation unit for changing the shock absorption degree of the suspension device SP. The operation unit SW includes a first switch SW1, a second switch SW2, and a third switch SW3.

[0036] In the following description, the shock absorption degree of the suspension device SP is also referred to as "the hardness of the suspension". The relationship between the hardness of the suspension and the shock absorption degree is such that the greater the hardness of the suspension, the smaller the shock absorption degree. Also, the relationship between the damping force and the hardness of the suspension is such that the greater the damping force, the greater the hardness of the suspension.

[0037] The first switch SW1 is a switch for making the hardness of the suspension equal to or less than a first predetermined value. The first switch SW1 can be, for example, a switch for switching the drive mode of the vehicle to a comfort mode in which ride comfort is prioritized.

[0038] The second switch SW2 is a switch for making the hardness of the suspension greater than the first predetermined value and less than or equal to a second predetermined value greater than the first predetermined value. The second switch SW2 can be, for example, a switch for switching the drive mode of the vehicle to a standard mode.

[0039] The third switch SW3 is a switch for making the hardness of the suspension greater than the second predetermined value. The third switch SW3 can be, for example, a switch for switching the drive mode of the vehicle to a sports mode.

[0040] Note that the change in the hardness of the suspension may be performed by the control unit 100, or may be performed by a control unit different from the control unit 100. In the present embodiment, a control unit different from the control unit 100 changes the hardness of the suspension based on the information from the operation unit SW.

[0041] 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 10A having a seating surface F1 for supporting a seated person.

[0042] The seat cushion 11 has a base portion 11A disposed at the left - right center and overhanging portions 11B disposed on both outer sides of the base portion 11A. The base portion 11A has the seating surface F1 and contacts and supports the buttocks and thighs of the seated person from below. The overhanging portion 11B protrudes from the seating surface F1 of the base portion 11A toward the seated person side to support the sides of the thighs and buttocks of the seated person.

[0043] Similarly, the seat back 12 also has a base portion 12A disposed at the left - right center and overhanging portions 12B disposed on both outer sides of the base portion 12A. The base portion 12A has the seating surface F1 and contacts the back of the seated person to support the back from behind. The overhanging portion 12B protrudes from the seating surface F1 of the base portion 12A toward the seated person side to support the sides of the upper body of the seated person.

[0044] The overhanging portions 11B, 12B have an inner surface F2 for supporting the seated person from the left - right outer sides. The seating surface F1 and the inner surface F2 constitute the surface of the seat 10 on the seated - person side.

[0045] As shown in FIG. 3, the seat cushion 11 includes a frame FL, a pad PD, and a skin SK. The frame FL is made of metal or the like and supports the pad PD. The pad PD is made of a cushion material such as urethane foam. The skin SK is made of synthetic leather, fabric, or the like and covers the pad PD. Similarly, the seat back 12 and the headrest 13 also include a frame, a pad, and a skin.

[0046] Sheet 10 further includes an air cell 22 (see also FIG. 2) as an example of an electric device, a vibration device 23, and a sensor 24. As shown in FIG. 2, the air cell 22 (specifically, a bag 22A described later) is provided one by one on each of a total of four protruding portions 11B and 12B. Since the structure around the air cell 22 in each of the protruding portions 11B and 12B is substantially the same, hereinafter, with reference to FIG. 3, the structure of the protruding portion 11B on the right side of the sheet cushion 11 will be described as a representative, and the description of the structures of the other protruding portions 11B and 12B will be omitted.

[0047] As shown in FIGS. 3(a) and 3(b), the air cell 22 is an electric device that moves only a part of the inner surface F2 of the protruding portion 11B. The air cell 22 includes an expandable and contractible bag 22A, a pump (not shown), and a tube. The pump has a function of sending air into the bag 22A or sucking air out of the bag 22A, and operates when energized. The tube connects the bag 22A and the pump.

[0048] The bag 22A is located between the pad PD and the frame FL. Note that the bag 22A may be embedded in the pad PD. Note that the pump is fixed to the frame FL of the sheet 10, for example.

[0049] The bag 22A is deformable into a first shape shown in FIG. 3(a), a second shape that is more inflated than the first shape shown in FIG. 3(b), and a third shape (not shown) that is more inflated than the second shape. When the bag 22A is in the first shape, the inner surface F2 is located at a first position shown in FIG. 3(a). When the bag 22A is in the second shape, the inner surface F2 is located at a second position closer to the seated person than the first position shown in FIG. 3(b). When the bag 22A is in the third shape, the inner surface F2 is located at a third position (not shown) closer to the seated person than the second position.

[0050] The vibration device 23 is a device that vibrates when energized. Two vibration devices 23 are provided in the protruding portion 11B. Note that at least one vibration device 23 may be provided in the protruding portion 11B.

[0051] The two vibration devices 23 are arranged side by side at intervals in the left - right direction. In the following description, the vibration device 23 on the inner side in the left - right direction is also referred to as the "first vibration device 23A", and the vibration device 23 on the outer side in the left - right direction is also referred to as the "second vibration device 23B". Conversely, contrary to this embodiment, the vibration device 23 on the outer side in the left - right direction may be the first vibration device, and the vibration device 23 on the inner side in the left - right direction may be the second vibration device.

[0052] The distance from the first vibration device 23A to the skin SK is substantially equal to the distance from the second vibration device 23B to the skin SK. Each vibration device 23 is located between the sensor 24 and the bag 22A. Each vibration device 23 is, for example, embedded in the pad PD.

[0053] The sensor 24 is a sensor that detects that the inner surface F2 is in contact with the seated person. In this embodiment, the sensor 24 is a pressure sensor. The sensor 24 is located between the skin SK and the pad PD.

[0054] As shown in FIG. 2, the control unit 100 is configured to include, for example, a CPU, a RAM, a ROM, an input - output circuit, etc. The control unit 100 may be provided on the seat 10, or may be provided on a member other than the seat 10.

[0055] The control unit 100 is connected to the monitor M, the operation unit SW, the air cell 22, the vibration device 23, and the sensor 24 (see FIG. 3). The control unit 100 can individually operate a plurality of air cells 22 and a plurality of vibration devices 23.

[0056] The control unit 100 grasps the hardness of the suspension based on the information from the operation unit SW, and has a function of operating the air cell 22 based on the hardness of the suspension (shock absorption degree). Specifically, the control unit 100 changes the size of the bag 22A of the air cell 22 based on the hardness of the suspension.

[0057] Specifically, when the suspension stiffness is equal to or less than a first predetermined value, that is, when the damping force is less than a predetermined value, the control unit 100 positions the inner surfaces F2 of the total four protruding portions 11B and 12B at a first position by forming the bag 22A of each air cell 22 into a first shape. When the suspension stiffness is greater than the first predetermined value and equal to or less than a second predetermined value, that is, when the damping force is equal to or greater than a predetermined value, the control unit 100 positions the inner surfaces F2 at a second position by forming the bag 22A of each air cell 22 into a second shape. When the suspension stiffness is greater than the second predetermined value, the control unit 100 positions the inner surfaces F2 at a third position by forming the bag 22A of each air cell 22 into a third shape.

[0058] Note that the shape change of the air cell 22 according to the suspension stiffness may be performed on at least one of the four air cells 22 arranged on the left and right of the seat cushion 11 and the left and right of the seat back 12. For example, the control unit 100 may change the shape of only the left and right air cells 22 of the seat cushion 11 according to the suspension stiffness, or may change the shape of only the left and right air cells 22 of the seat back 12 according to the suspension stiffness.

[0059] The control unit 100 has a function of operating the vibration device 23 when the inner surface F2 moves in a direction approaching the seated person by the air cell 22. The control unit 100 has a function of determining the size of the air cell 22 based on the information acquired from the sensor 24 when the inner surface F2 moves in a direction approaching the seated person by the air cell 22. The control unit 100 has a function of operating the vibration device 23 when the pressure value acquired from the sensor 24 exceeds a threshold value.

[0060] As shown in FIG. 4, the control unit 100 has a function of displaying an image of the suspension, the cat character, and the seat on the screen M1 of the monitor M. When the shock absorption degree is changed, the control unit 100 displays an image in which the cat changes the shock absorption degree on the screen M1.

[0061] For example, when the hardness of the suspension is equal to or less than a first predetermined value, the control unit 100 displays a video of a cat massaging the suspension and also displays an image of characters such as "Nya~ to relax". At this time, the control unit 100 also displays a video in which the cat presses the protruding part of the seat from the left and right inner sides.

[0062] In addition, when the hardness of the suspension is greater than the first predetermined value and less than or equal to a second predetermined value, or when it is greater than the second predetermined value, a video in which the cat performs a performance according to the hardness of the suspension and the state of the seat may be displayed.

[0063] 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.

[0064] In the process of FIG. 5, the control unit 100 first determines whether the hardness of the suspension has been changed by determining whether the drive mode of the vehicle has been changed based on the signal from the operation unit SW (S1). If it is determined in step S1 that the hardness has not been changed (No), the control unit 100 ends this process.

[0065] If it is determined in step S1 that the hardness has been changed (Yes), the control unit 100 determines whether the hardness of the suspension is equal to or less than a first predetermined value by determining whether the first switch SW1 has been selected (S2). If it is determined in step S2 that the hardness is equal to or less than the first predetermined value (Yes), the control unit 100 displays an image corresponding to the hardness of the suspension on the screen M1 (S3). In step S3, the control unit 100 also displays an image corresponding to the state of the seat that changes according to the following steps S4 to S6 on the screen M1.

[0066] After step S3, the control unit 100 contracts each air cell 22 (S4). After step S4, the control unit 100 determines whether the pressure value P obtained from the sensor 24 is less than a first threshold value Pth1 (S5).

[0067] If it is determined in step S5 that P is not less than Pth1 (No), the control unit 100 returns to the process of step S4. If it is determined in step S5 that P is less than Pth1 (Yes), the control unit 100 stops the contraction of the air cell 22 (S6) and ends this process.

[0068] If it is determined in step S2 that the hardness of the suspension is not less than the first predetermined value (No), the control unit 100 determines whether the second switch SW2 is selected, thereby determining whether the hardness of the suspension is less than or equal to the second predetermined value (S7). If it is determined in step S7 that the hardness of the suspension is less than or equal to the second predetermined value (Yes), the control unit 100 displays an image corresponding to the hardness of the suspension on the screen M1 (S8). In step S8, the control unit 100 also displays an image corresponding to the state of the seat that changes according to the following steps S9 to S12 on the screen M1.

[0069] After step S8, the control unit 100 expands each air cell 22 (S9). After step S9, the control unit 100 determines whether the pressure value P obtained from the sensor 24 is greater than the second threshold value Pth2 (S10). Here, the second threshold value Pth2 is greater than the first threshold value Pth1.

[0070] If it is determined in step S10 that P is not greater than Pth2 (No), the control unit 100 returns to the process of step S9. If it is determined in step S10 that P is greater than Pth2 (Yes), the control unit 100 stops the expansion of the air cell 22 (S11). After step S11, the control unit 100 operates the first vibration device 23A for a predetermined time (S12) and then ends this process.

[0071] If it is determined in step S7 that the hardness of the suspension is not less than the second predetermined value (No), the control unit 100 displays an image corresponding to the hardness of the suspension on the screen M1 (S13). In step S13, the control unit 100 also displays an image corresponding to the state of the seat that changes according to the following steps S14 to S17 on the screen M1.

[0072] After step S13, the control unit 100 inflates each air cell 22 (S14). After step S14, the control unit 100 determines whether the pressure value P obtained from the sensor 24 is greater than the third threshold value Pth3 (S15). Here, the third threshold value Pth3 is greater than the second threshold value Pth2.

[0073] If it is determined in step S15 that P > Pth3 is not satisfied (No), the control unit 100 returns to the process of step S14. If it is determined in step S15 that P > Pth3 (Yes), the control unit 100 stops the inflation of the air cell 22 (S16). After step S16, the control unit 100 operates the first vibration device 23A and the second vibration device 23B for a predetermined time (S17), and then ends this process.

[0074] Next, a specific example of the operation of the control unit 100 will be described. As shown in FIG. 2, when the drive mode of the vehicle is the standard mode and the occupant of the seat 10 presses the first switch SW1 to switch the drive mode from the standard mode to the comfort mode, the hardness of the suspension becomes not more than the first predetermined value, and the air cells 22 of the four protruding portions 11B, 12B contract. At this time, the image shown in FIG. 4 is displayed on the screen M1.

[0075] Thereby, the occupant can feel that the suspension has become softer by the cat on the screen M1, so that the entertainment property can be enhanced. In addition, the occupant can feel that each protruding portion 11B, 12B has become softer due to the contraction of each air cell 22, so that the occupant can also feel that the suspension has become softer due to the softness of the seat 10.

[0076] Also, when the drive mode of the vehicle is switched from the comfort mode to the standard mode, the air cells 22 of the four protruding portions 11B and 12B expand, and the first vibration device 23A vibrates. As a result, the seated person can feel the holding property of the seat 10 in the standard mode where the suspension is harder than in the comfort mode, and can feel that the hardness of the suspension is medium due to the vibration of only the first vibration device 23A.

[0077] Also, when the drive mode of the vehicle is switched from the standard mode to the sports mode, the air cells 22 of the four protruding portions 11B and 12B further expand, and both the first vibration device 23A and the second vibration device 23B vibrate. As a result, the seated person can feel the holding property of the seat 10 more in the sports mode where the suspension is harder than in the standard mode, and can feel that the hardness of the suspension is large due to the vibration of the two vibration devices 23.

[0078] As described above, according to the present embodiment, the following effects can be obtained. Since the air cell 22 is operated based on the shock absorption degree, the surface on the seated person side of the seat 10 can be formed into a shape suitable for shock, and a holding property suitable for shock can be obtained.

[0079] By increasing the size of the air cell 22 when the hardness of the suspension is large (the shock absorption degree is low), the seat 10 becomes hard and the shock from the road surface is easily transmitted to the seated person, so that the seated person can understand the state of the suspension.

[0080] By increasing the size of the air cell 22 when the hardness of the suspension is large, the inner surfaces F2 of the left and right protruding portions 11B and 12B move toward the user side and contact the user, so that the holding property can be enhanced.

[0081] By the control unit 100 displaying an image in which a cat changes the impact absorption degree on the monitor M, the seated person has an illusion as if the cat character is changing the impact absorption degree, thus improving the entertainment property.

[0082] By adopting a configuration in which the vibration device 23 is operated when the pressure value acquired from the sensor 24 exceeds the threshold value, the vibration device 23 operates when the overhanging portions 11B and 12B are in close contact with the seated person, so that the vibration can be surely transmitted to the user.

[0083] [Second Embodiment] Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with appropriate reference to the drawings. Since this embodiment is obtained by changing a part of the structure of the vehicle system 1 according to the above-described first embodiment, the same components and processes as those in the first embodiment will be denoted by the same reference numerals and their description will be omitted.

[0084] The vehicle system 201 according to the second embodiment includes an air cell 222 that is different in position and size from that in the first embodiment. The size of the bag 22A of the air cell 222 is larger than that of the air cell 22 in the first embodiment, and the other structure is the same as that of the air cell 22 in the first embodiment.

[0085] The air cell 222 (bag 22A) is provided on each of the two base portions 11A and 12A. Since the structure around the air cell 222 in each base portion 11A and 12A is substantially the same, hereinafter, with reference to FIG. 7, the structure of the base portion 11A of the seat cushion 11 will be described as a representative, and the description of the structure of the base portion 12A of the seat back 12 will be omitted.

[0086] As shown in FIGS. 7(a) and 7(b), the air cell 222 is an electric device that moves a part of the seating surface F1 of the base portion 11A. The base portion 11A further includes a vibration device 23 and a sensor 24.

[0087] The vibration device 23 can change the intensity of vibration. As a vibration device capable of changing the intensity of vibration, for example, a type of vibration device that changes the frequency and amplitude of vibration to change the intensity of vibration can be adopted.

[0088] The vibration device 23 is located between the sensor 24 and the air cell 222. The sensor 24 is located between the epidermis SK and the pad PD.

[0089] The control unit 100 according to the second embodiment executes the process of FIG. 8. The process of FIG. 8 provides a new step S31 instead of step S12 in the process of FIG. 5, and provides a new step S32 instead of step S17, and other processes are the same as the process of FIG. 5.

[0090] After step S11, the control unit 100 operates the vibration device 23 at the first intensity (S31). That is, when the hardness of the suspension is equal to or less than the second predetermined value (S7: Yes), the control unit 100 sets the intensity of the vibration device 23 to be operated after the stop of the air cell 22 to the first intensity.

[0091] After step S16, the control unit 100 operates the vibration device 23 at a second intensity greater than the first intensity (S32). That is, when the hardness of the suspension is greater than the second predetermined value (S7: No), the control unit 100 sets the intensity of the vibration device 23 to be operated after the stop of the air cell 22 to a second intensity greater than the first intensity.

[0092] According to the second embodiment, since the intensity of vibration of the vibration device 23 is changed based on the hardness of the suspension, the seated person can understand that the hardness of the suspension has changed by the intensity of vibration. In particular, when the hardness of the suspension is greater than the second predetermined value, the intensity of vibration is set to a second intensity greater than the first intensity, so that the seated person can intuitively understand that the hardness of the suspension has changed by the intensity of vibration.

[0093] Further, as the suspension becomes stiffer, by expanding each air cell 222 provided in the base portions 11A and 12A, the base portions 11A and 12A become stiffer, and the impact from the road surface is more likely to be transmitted to the seated person, so that the seated person can understand the state of the suspension.

[0094] Note that a hardness variable member whose hardness can be changed may be provided in the base portions 11A and 12A instead of the air cells 222. As the hardness variable member, for example, a member in which a magnetic fluid is enclosed in a bag 22A such as the air cell 222 can be used. In this case, the control unit 100 may change the hardness of the hardness variable member by applying a magnetic force to the magnetic fluid with an electromagnet.

[0095] Also, in this case, the control unit 100 executes the process of FIG. 9. The process of FIG. 9 has steps S1 to S3, S7, S8, S13, S31, and S32 of the process of FIG. 8, and also has new steps S51 to S53.

[0096] After step S3, the control unit 100 changes the hardness of the hardness variable member to make the hardness of the pad PD (hereinafter, also referred to as "pad hardness") the first hardness (S51). After step S8, the control unit 100 changes the hardness of the hardness variable member to make the pad hardness a second hardness greater than the first hardness (S52), and proceeds to the process of step S31. After step S13, the control unit 100 changes the hardness of the hardness variable member to make the pad hardness a third hardness greater than the second hardness (S53), and proceeds to the process of step S32.

[0097] That is, when the hardness of the suspension is equal to or less than the first predetermined value (S2: Yes), the control unit 100 makes the pad hardness the first hardness. When the hardness of the suspension is greater than the first predetermined value and equal to or less than the second predetermined value (S7: Yes), the control unit 100 makes the pad hardness the second hardness. When the hardness of the suspension is greater than the second predetermined value (S7: No), the control unit 100 makes the pad hardness the third hardness.

[0098] Even in this form, as the suspension becomes stiffer, the base portions 11A and 12A also become stiffer, making it easier for the impact from the road surface to be transmitted to the seated person. Thus, the seated person can understand the state of the suspension.

[0099] As shown in FIGS. 10(a) and 10(b), the control unit 100 may compare the amounts of expansion and contraction of the springs SP1 of the left and right suspension devices SP, and expand the air cells 22 so that the inner surfaces F2 of the protruding portions 11B and 12B on the side where the spring is contracted move inward to the left and right. For example, when the control unit 100 determines that the left spring SP1 among the left and right springs is more contracted than the right spring SP1, the control unit 100 expands the left air cell 22 to move the inner surface F2 of the left protruding portions 11B and 12B inward to the left and right. In this case, for example, an image of a cat sitting on the left spring SP1 and an image of the cat pushing the left protruding portions 11B and 12B inward to the left and right may be displayed on the screen M1.

[0100] As shown in FIG. 11, the shock absorption means may be an adjustment device 80 that adjusts the hardness of the tire T. The adjustment device 80 includes a hardness variable frame 81 whose hardness can be changed and a power supply unit (not shown) that supplies electricity to the hardness variable frame 81.

[0101] The hardness variable frame 81 is built into the rubber tire T. The hardness of the hardness variable frame 81 can be changed by energization.

[0102] The control unit 100 may change the degree of shock absorption by controlling the adjustment device 80 to adjust the hardness of the tire T.

[0103] Note that, as the adjustment device, for example, a device that adjusts the hardness of the tire by adjusting the air pressure of the tire may also be used (see, for example, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2006-182235).

[0104] The operation unit is not limited to a switch that changes the drive mode, and may be, for example, a keyboard or a touch panel that can input values corresponding to the degree of shock absorption such as hardness.

[0105] The sensor may be, for example, a capacitance type touch sensor.

[0106] The electric device may be the device shown below. · A movable device that deforms the sheet shape by driving a plate member (for example, a device that operates left and right overhangs protruding from the seating surface of a seat cushion or a seat back, a device that operates a part of the seating surface of a seat back or a seat cushion)

[0107] The vibration device may be any device such as one having a motor and a harness that generates vibration, one having an eccentric motor, or one having a linear motor. The vibration device may be provided in a seat cushion, a headrest, etc. The vibration device may be provided in the left and right overhangs of a seat cushion or a seat back.

[0108] 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 a seat, the side of a 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 a seated person.

[0109] The character may be an animal other than a cat, a living thing such as a plant, or a character that anthropomorphizes things or living things. The character can be set in advance and may be, for example, an image that deforms an occupant.

[0110] The vehicle is not limited to an automobile and may be other vehicles such as a two-wheeled vehicle or a train.

[0111] Examples of the method for manufacturing a vehicle system include the following methods. A vehicle body frame that supports a seat, shock absorption means disposed between the road surface and the vehicle body frame for absorbing shocks from the road surface, the shock absorption means being capable of changing the degree of shock absorption, an electric device that moves a part of the seating surface of the seat, and a control unit, and a method for manufacturing a vehicle system in which the control unit operates the electric device based on the degree of shock absorption, the method comprising the steps of attaching the electric device to the seat, attaching the seat, the shock absorption means, and the control unit to the vehicle body frame, and connecting the electric device to the control unit.

[0112] Each element described in the above embodiments and modifications may be implemented in any combination.

Explanation of Reference Numerals

[0113] 1 Vehicle system 10 Seat 22 Air cell 100 Control unit CF Vehicle body frame SP Suspension device

Claims

1. A vehicle body frame that supports the seat; an impact absorbing means arranged between a road surface and the vehicle body frame for absorbing impact from the road surface, the impact absorbing means being capable of changing an impact absorption degree; An electric device for moving a portion of a surface of the seat facing an occupant; A control unit, The control unit operates the electrically-driven device based on the shock absorption rate.

2. the electrically-driven device is an air cell; The vehicle system according to claim 1 , wherein the control unit changes a size of the air cell based on the impact absorption rate.

3. The seat has a seat cushion and a seat back, The seat cushion and / or the seat back are A seating surface that supports an occupant; The seating surface has a protruding portion located on the left and right sides thereof and protruding from the seating surface, The vehicle system according to claim 2 , wherein the protruding portion includes the air cell.

4. the shock absorbing means is a suspension system of a vehicle, The change in the shock absorption rate is performed by adjusting the damping force of the suspension device, The control unit is When the damping force is less than a predetermined value, the air cell is made to have a first shape, thereby positioning an inner surface of the protruding portion, which is a surface of the protruding portion facing a seat occupant, at a first position; The vehicle system according to claim 3, characterized in that, when the damping force is equal to or greater than the predetermined value, the air cell is made to assume a second shape which is more expanded than the first shape, thereby positioning the inner surface at a second position which is closer to an occupant than the first position.

5. A display unit that displays an image of the shock absorbing means and a character is further provided, The vehicle system according to claim 1 , wherein the control unit, when the impact absorption rate is changed, causes the display unit to display an image in which the character changes the impact absorption rate.

6. The seat further comprises a vibration device; The vehicle system according to claim 2 , wherein the control unit changes a vibration intensity of the vibration device based on the shock absorption rate.

7. the overhanging portion has a vibration device; The vehicle system according to claim 4 , wherein the control unit activates the vibration device when the air cell causes the inner surface to move in a direction toward a seated occupant.

8. The protruding portion has a sensor that detects whether the inner surface is in contact with an occupant, The vehicle system according to claim 7, characterized in that when the air cell causes the inner surface to move in a direction toward an occupant, the control unit determines a size of the air cell based on information obtained from the sensor.

9. the sensor is a pressure sensor; The vehicle system according to claim 8 , wherein the control unit activates the vibration device when the pressure value acquired from the sensor exceeds a threshold value.

10. The shock absorbing means is an adjusting device for adjusting the hardness of a tire, 2. The vehicle system according to claim 1, wherein the change in the shock absorption rate is achieved by adjusting the hardness of the tires.

11. 2. The vehicle system according to claim 1, further comprising an operating unit operated by a seated occupant for changing the impact absorption rate of the impact absorbing means.

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