Seat system control method, computer program, storage medium, and vehicle seat

Abstract

To provide a vehicle seat that allows an occupant to operate onboard devices arranged in a vehicle.SOLUTION: A vehicle seat S includes: a seat body S0; sensors (pressure sensors PS1 to PS6) that acquire measurement values for identifying the movement of an occupant sitting in the seat body S0; and a control unit (control device 100, smartphone SP) connected to the sensors so as to be able to acquire the measurement values from the sensors. The control unit is connected to be able to communicate with an on-board device (smartphone SP) that is to be operated and is arranged in a vehicle, and is configured to output a signal for operating the on-board device based on the measurement values.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a seat system control method, a computer program, a storage medium, and a vehicle seat. [Background technology]

[0002] BACKGROUND ART Conventionally, there is known a device that estimates the seating posture of a seated person by mounting a pressure sensor or the like on a driver's seat (Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 11-064131 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, the conventional device only evaluates and presents the driver's seating posture, which is problematic in that it cannot be used very effectively.

[0005] Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a control method for a seat system, a computer program, a storage medium, and a vehicle seat that are capable of operating onboard equipment located within a vehicle, in order to propose new value for vehicle seats. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The present invention, which solves the above-mentioned problems, is a vehicle seat that includes a seat body installed in a vehicle, a sensor that acquires measurement values ​​to identify the movements of an occupant sitting in the seat body, and a control unit connected to the sensor so as to acquire the measurement values ​​from the sensor. The control unit is communicatively connected to an on-board device to be operated that is arranged in the vehicle, and is configured to output a signal for operating the on-board device based on the measurement value.

[0007] With this configuration, the control unit outputs the measurement values ​​obtained from the sensor to the on-board equipment as signals for operating the on-board equipment, so that an occupant sitting in the vehicle seat can operate the on-board equipment by performing movements on the seat body, such as moving their upper body or legs. As a result, whereas previously, when operating in-flight devices, passengers had to operate the devices or their controllers with their hands, this can now be done by movements on the seat. For example, even if a passenger does not want to use their hands or is physically disabled and cannot use their hands, they can operate in-flight devices by moving a part of their body or exerting force on a certain muscle.

[0008] The sensor is preferably arranged so as to be able to detect the state of the seat surface facing the occupant seated on the seat body.

[0009] According to this configuration, the seat occupant can operate the in-flight equipment by simply changing the position of the seat surface, making operation easy.

[0010] The on-board device may include a display, and the control unit may be capable of outputting a signal to operate a cursor or icon displayed on the display.

[0011] With this configuration, if the onboard device is a device with a display, such as a personal computer, a navigation system, or a smartphone, it will be possible to operate it. A cursor is a mark that indicates a position or icon on a display, and on a PC it includes a pointer that is usually operated with a mouse, or a selection indicator that is operated with a mouse or keyboard and is often displayed as reversed text or different colors, etc. An icon is an image that is displayed on a display and is the target of operation, and includes folders, files, and buttons on a PC, characters in a game application, and buttons in a navigation system.

[0012] The control unit preferably outputs a signal based on the measured value on the condition that the measured value exceeds a predetermined threshold value.

[0013] With this configuration, it is possible to prevent the on-board device from being operated accidentally and unintentionally.

[0014] The control unit has a first operating mode in which it outputs a signal based on the measurement value, and a second operating mode in which it does not output a signal, and can operate in the first operating mode only after notifying the occupant via an on-board device or other device to prompt them to take action.

[0015] In the vehicle seat described above, the sensor may be configured to be capable of acquiring a pressure value from an occupant seated on the seat body.

[0016] The sensor may be a pressure sensor, and the pressure sensor may include a first pressure sensor and a second pressure sensor disposed at a different position from the first pressure sensor. In this case, the control unit may assign a first operation as an operation of the on-board device based on a measurement value obtained from the first pressure sensor, and may assign a second operation as an operation of the on-board device based on a measurement value obtained from the second pressure sensor.

[0017] According to this configuration, the first operation and the second operation can be performed based on the measured values ​​obtained by the first pressure sensor and the second pressure sensor, respectively, so that erroneous operations can be suppressed.

[0018] The control unit may be configured to output a signal based on a change in the measurement value obtained from the sensor.

[0019] In the vehicle seat described above, the vehicle may be provided with a plurality of seat bodies, each of which is provided with a sensor, and the control unit may be configured to acquire measurement values ​​from each of the seat bodies and output a signal based on the measurement values. [Effects of the Invention]

[0020] According to the present invention, an occupant sitting in a vehicle seat can operate in-flight equipment using the vehicle seat.

[0021] Furthermore, the seat occupant can operate the in-flight equipment by simply changing the position of the seat, making operation easy.

[0022] Furthermore, by outputting a signal based on the measurement value on the condition that the measurement value exceeds a predetermined threshold, it is possible to prevent the on-board device from being operated unintentionally and erroneously.

[0023] In addition, by assigning a first operation as an operation of an on-board device based on a measurement value obtained from a first pressure sensor and assigning a second operation as an operation of an on-board device based on a measurement value obtained from a second pressure sensor, erroneous operations can be suppressed. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0024] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram illustrating the overall configuration of a system using a vehicle seat according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] 2A to 2C are diagrams illustrating the configuration of each vehicle seat. [Figure 3] 1A and 1B are diagrams illustrating the arrangement of sensors, in which (a) is a diagram of the seat back as seen from the front, and (b) is a diagram of the seat cushion as seen from above. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a seat illustrating the arrangement of sensors. [Figure 5] FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of a vehicle seat and a system. [Figure 6] 10 is a graph showing changes in pressure obtained during calibration. [Figure 7] 10 is a table of onomatopoeia determination conditions. [Figure 8] 10 is an exercise level determination table. [Figure 9] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of processing by the control device, showing a processing portion for participating in a game. [Figure 10]10 is a flowchart showing an example of processing by the control device, illustrating a calibration processing portion. [Figure 11] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of processing by the control device, showing a race processing portion. [Figure 12] 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a process of an application. [Figure 13] This is the calibration processing part of the game progression processing. [Figure 14] This is the race processing part of the game progression processing. [Figure 15] 10 is an example of a start screen. [Figure 16] 10 is an example of a warm-up screen. [Figure 17] This is an example of the start screen of a 100m sprint game. [Figure 18] This is an example of a screen during a 100m sprint game. [Figure 19] This is an example of the screen at the finish line of a 100m sprint game. [Figure 20] This is an example of a result screen for a 100m sprint game. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0025] Next, an embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. As shown in FIG. 1, the vehicle seat S of this embodiment is configured as a vehicle seat installed in, for example, a vehicle CR. The vehicle seat S includes a seat body S0 and a control device 100. The vehicle CR is provided with four vehicle seats S, for example, two front seats and two rear seats. The vehicle CR is also provided with a control device 100 that integrates information between the four vehicle seats S, operates them in conjunction with each other, and communicates with a smartphone SP, which is an example of an on-board device. The smartphone SP is an example of an on-board device, and together with the control device 100, constitutes a control unit of the present invention. In this way, the vehicle CR includes a system SYS for a vehicle seat S, which is configured by the control device 100, a plurality of seat bodies S0, and smartphones SP. Note that the smartphones SP of each seated occupant P and each seat body S0 are assumed to be associated in advance through communication via the control device 100.

[0026] The vehicle seat S of this embodiment provides a 100m sprint game on a smartphone SP, which is an in-flight device. The smartphone SP includes a display DSP (see FIG. 2), and the control device 100 outputs a signal to operate a character in the game displayed on the display DSP to run by alternately moving the left and right legs up and down on the seat body S0.

[0027] As shown in Fig. 2, the seat body S0 has a seat cushion S1 and a seat back S2. The seat cushion S1 and the seat back S2 are provided with a plurality of pressure sensors PS1 to PS6 under their surfaces. The pressure sensors PS1 to PS6 are sensors that acquire measurements to identify the movement of an occupant P sitting in the seat body S0. The pressure sensors PS1 to PS6 are arranged so as to be able to detect the state of the seat surface facing the occupant P seated in the seat body S0, and acquire pressure values ​​from the occupant P sitting in the seat body S0. The control device 100 is connected to the pressure sensors PS1 to PS6 so as to be able to acquire pressure values ​​from each of the pressure sensors PS1 to PS6.

[0028] The pressure sensors PS1 to PS6 are provided in pairs symmetrically with respect to the center of the vehicle seat S on the left and right. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 3(b), the seat cushion S1 is provided with pressure sensors PS1 to PS3.

[0029] The pressure sensor PS1 is provided at a position corresponding to the lowest part of the ischial bones of the seated occupant P. This position is where the weight of the seated occupant P is greatest. The pressure sensor PS1 can be disposed, for example, at a position 60 to 70 mm, for example 65 mm, away from the center C of the vehicle seat S on both sides.

[0030] The pressure sensor PS2 is disposed slightly in front of the pressure sensor PS1, and can be disposed, for example, at a position 50 to 60 mm, e.g., 55 mm, forward of the pressure sensor PS1 and 65 to 75 mm, e.g., 70 mm, to the left and right of the center C. The pressure sensors PS1 and PS2 are an example of first cushion sensors disposed in positions on the seat cushion S1 corresponding to the buttocks of the seated occupant P. The first cushion sensors include at least one right cushion sensor (pressure sensors PS1, PS2) and at least one left cushion sensor (pressure sensors PS1, PS2).

[0031] Both the pressure sensor PS1 and the pressure sensor PS2 are for measuring pressure from the buttocks of the seated occupant P, and only one of them may be provided. The pressure sensor PS1 and the pressure sensor PS2 together are referred to as a first cushion sensor SC1.

[0032] The pressure sensor PS3 is disposed far forward from the pressure sensors PS1 and PS2. The pressure sensor PS3 is an example of a second cushion sensor located in front of the first cushion sensor SC1 on the seat cushion S1. The pressure sensor PS3 is referred to as the second cushion sensor SC2.

[0033] Pressure sensor PS3 is located under the thighs of seated occupant P and is capable of measuring pressure values ​​from the thighs of seated occupant P. Pressure sensor PS3 can be located, for example, 110 to 130 mm, for example 120 mm in front of pressure sensor PS2 (175 mm in front of pressure sensor PS1), and 65 to 75 mm, for example 70 mm to the left and right of center C.

[0034] As shown in FIG. 4, the second cushion sensor SC2 is preferably located forward of position E1, which is 280 mm forward along the seat surface S11 of the seat cushion S1 from the seat surface S21 of the seat back S2. The first cushion sensor SC1 is located behind position E1. Position E1 is measured by placing one ruler M11 of an L-shaped curved ruler M1 along the seat surface S11 of the seat cushion S1 and placing the other ruler M12 against the seat surface S21 of the seat back S2. If the shape of the seat back S2 (e.g., the lumbar support) is adjustable, any shape may suffice as long as it satisfies this requirement. By locating the second cushion sensor SC2 in this position, the second cushion sensor SC2 can accurately detect the up and down movement of the thighs of the seated occupant P.

[0035] As shown in Figures 2 and 3(a), pressure sensors PS4 to PS6 are provided on the seat back S2. Pressure sensor PS4 is provided at a position corresponding to the back of the waist of the seated occupant P. Pressure sensor PS4 can be disposed, for example, at a position 45 to 55 mm, for example 50 mm, to the left and right from the left-right center C of the vehicle seat S.

[0036] Pressure sensor PS5 is located slightly above pressure sensor PS4, and can be located, for example, 70 to 80 mm, e.g., 75 mm, above pressure sensor PS4 and 85 to 95 mm, e.g., 90 mm, to the left and right of center C. Pressure sensors PS4 and PS5 are first back sensors located at the bottom of seat back S2. The first back sensors include at least one right back sensor (pressure sensors PS4, PS5) and at least one left back sensor (pressure sensors PS4, PS5).

[0037] Both the pressure sensor PS4 and the pressure sensor PS5 are for measuring pressure from the lower back of the seated occupant P, and only one of them may be provided. The pressure sensor PS4 and the pressure sensor PS5 together form a first back sensor SB1.

[0038] The pressure sensor PS6 is disposed above and spaced apart from the pressure sensors PS4 and PS5. The pressure sensor PS6 is a second back sensor disposed above the first back sensor SB1 in the seat back S2. The pressure sensor PS6 is referred to as the second back sensor SB2.

[0039] Pressure sensor PS6 is located corresponding to the upper part of the back of seated person P and is capable of measuring pressure values ​​from the shoulder blades of seated person P. Pressure sensor PS6 can be placed, for example, 190 to 210 mm, for example 200 mm above pressure sensor PS5 (275 mm above pressure sensor PS1), and 95 to 105 mm, for example 100 mm, to the left and right of center C.

[0040] As shown in FIG. 4, the second back sensor SB2 is preferably located above position E2, 300 mm above the seat surface S11 of the seat cushion S1 along the seat surface S21 of the seat back S2. The first back sensor SB1 is located below position E2. Position E2 is measured by placing one ruler M21 of an L-shaped curved ruler M2 along the seat surface S21 of the seat back S2 and placing the other ruler M22 against the seat surface S11 of the seat cushion S1. If the shape of the seat back S2 (e.g., lumbar support) is adjustable, any shape may suffice as long as it satisfies this requirement. By locating the second back sensor SB2 in this position, the second back sensor SB2 can detect pressure from the shoulders of the seated occupant P.

[0041] In the following description, the pressure values ​​acquired by the pressure sensors PS1 to PS6 are referred to as P1 to P6, respectively, and the right and left pressure values ​​are referred to as P1 to P6, respectively. R , P1 LThe pressure sensors PS1 to PS6 are indicated by the subscripts R and L, as in the example. Note that the pressure sensors PS1 to PS6 are elements whose electrical resistance changes depending on, for example, external pressure, and the greater the pressure value, the higher (or lower) the voltage of the detection signal. Therefore, although the magnitude of pressure values ​​is actually compared based on the magnitude of voltage values, this specification will be described in terms of determining the magnitude of pressure values ​​for ease of understanding.

[0042] 5, the control device 100 has a measurement value acquisition unit 110, a processing unit 120, a communication unit 130, and a storage unit 190. The smartphone SP has a game processing unit 210 and a storage unit 290. The control device 100 and the smartphone SP have a CPU, ROM, RAM, rewritable nonvolatile memory, etc. (not shown), and each functional unit is realized by executing a pre-stored program.

[0043] A short-range communication device 3A that enables short-range wireless communication such as Bluetooth (registered trademark) or Wi-Fi (registered trademark) is connected to the control device 100. The control device 100 can communicate with the smartphone SP via the communication unit 130 and the short-range communication device 3A, and can provide predetermined screens and sounds to the smartphone SP in cooperation with an app installed on the smartphone SP, as well as acquire data entered on the smartphone SP.

[0044] The measurement value acquiring unit 110 has a function of acquiring pressure measurement values ​​from each of the pressure sensors PS1 to PS6 at regular control cycles. The measurement values ​​acquired by the measurement value acquiring unit 110 are stored in the storage unit 190 and used by the processing unit 120. The storage unit 190 is used to store data necessary for calculations, processing, etc. as needed.

[0045] The processing unit 120 communicates with the smartphone SP and executes processing to transmit signals for operating a 100-meter sprint game app provided on the smartphone SP. The processing unit 120 has a Yes signal output unit 121, a No signal output unit 122, a calibration processing unit 124, and a step signal output unit 125.

[0046] The processing unit 120 has a first operation mode in which it outputs signals based on the measured values ​​of the pressure sensors PS1 to PS6, and a second operation mode in which it does not output signals. It can operate in the first operation mode only after issuing a notification to the seated occupant P via the smartphone SP urging him or her to operate. Specifically, as will be described later, after receiving a signal for accepting various signals from the smartphone SP, it switches to the first operation mode in which it outputs signals, and after receiving a signal for completing acceptance, it switches to the second operation mode in which it does not output signals.

[0047] The Yes signal output unit 121 and the No signal output unit 122 output a Yes signal or a No signal to the smartphone SP according to the action of the seated occupant P after the processing unit 120 receives a participation acceptance signal from the smartphone SP. Specifically, the Yes signal output unit 121 outputs the pressure value P6 obtained from the right pressure sensor PS6 (first pressure sensor). R The No signal output unit 122 outputs a Yes signal on the condition that the pressure value P6 obtained from the left pressure sensor PS6 (second pressure sensor) exceeds a predetermined threshold value P6th. L exceeds a predetermined threshold value P6th, the No signal is output. In the game processing unit 210 of the smartphone SP, a first operation for starting a game on the smartphone SP is assigned to a Yes signal, and a second operation for selecting not to play the game is assigned to a No signal.

[0048] After the processing unit 120 receives the calibration start signal from the smartphone SP, the calibration processing unit 124 calculates the pressure values ​​P3 of the left and right pressure sensors PS3. R ,P3 L Then, the normal pressure P3, which is the average pressure of the seated person P at that time, is obtained. n and a threshold value P3th for detecting the peak of the pressure value is determined, and a normal step period TS, which is an average leg movement period of the seated person P, is determined. n is calculated and output to the smartphone SP.

[0049] Specifically, when the seated person P alternately raises his / her legs, the pressure value P3 R ,P3 L For example, the pressure changes as shown in Figure 6. In Figure 6, the part where the pressure suddenly decreases indicates that the pressure at the sensor PS3 decreases as a result of the seated person P raising his / her legs. In other words, the pressure value around 140 where the pressure does not decrease is the average normal pressure P3 when the legs are not raised. n Normal pressure P3 n To calculate this, for example, the pressure value P3 R ,P3 L If the absolute value of the difference between the previous value and the current value (which is the current value P3(n) minus the previous value P3(n-1)) is less than a predetermined value (i.e., when the change in value is small), the current values ​​can be tallied and averaged.

[0050] The threshold value P3th is a threshold value for determining whether the leg is being raised, and in the case of FIG. 6, for example, a value of about 100 to 120 may be used. Therefore, the threshold value P3th is set to the normal pressure P3 n For example, the normal pressure P3 n The value obtained by multiplying this by a predetermined value of about 0.6 to 0.9 can be used as the threshold value P3th.

[0051] Normal step period TS n is the pressure value P3 R ,P3 L is the average value of the step period TS, which is the time interval between peaks of the Pressure value P3 R ,P3 L is the pressure value P3 R ,P3 L is smaller than the threshold value P3th (exceeding from the upper side to the lower side), it can be determined that the peak has been reached when the difference between the previous value and the current value changes from negative to positive, and the previous value P3(n-1) at this time can be taken as the peak value Pm.

[0052] After the processing unit 120 receives the race start signal from the smartphone SP, the step signal output unit 125 outputs a pressure value P3 R ,P3 L The peak is detected and the peak value Pm is calculated. The detection of the peak and the calculation of the peak value Pm can be performed in the same manner as in the calibration processing unit 124. Then, the step strength F (F R ,F L ) is calculated. The step strength F can be the magnitude of the peak, that is, the value obtained by subtracting the peak value Pm from the normal pressure P3. In this embodiment, in order to eliminate differences due to the size of the physique of the seated occupant P, the normal pressure P3 n For example, the step strength F is F=(P3 n -Pm) / P3 n The step signal output unit 125 outputs the pressure value P3 R ,P3 L When the peak of the pressure P3 is detected, the step signal output unit 125 outputs the peak value Pm and the step strength F to the smartphone SP. In this way, the step signal output unit 125 outputs a signal based on the change in the pressure value P3 obtained from the pressure sensor PS3.

[0053] Meanwhile, the game processing unit 210 of the smartphone SP executes game progress processing when the app is launched. The game processing unit 210 includes a participation acceptance processing unit 211, a calibration instruction unit 212, a character movement processing unit 213, an onomatopoeia determination unit 214, and a result output unit 219. The game processing unit 210 stores signals received from the control device 100 in the memory unit 290 along with the time of reception. The memory unit 290 is used to appropriately store data required for calculations, processing, and the like. The game processing unit 210 is also configured to appropriately transmit data such as the calculated travel distance L and exercise results to the control device 100 to share the data with smartphones SP compatible with other vehicle seats S. The control device 100 accumulates these data in the memory unit 190.

[0054] The participation acceptance processing unit 211 displays a start screen on the display DSP to accept participation, transmits a participation acceptance signal to the control device 100, and accepts a Yes or No signal from the control device 100 for a predetermined time. The start screen, for example, is a screen like that shown in FIG. 15 , and outputs the message "Do you want to participate? Please push your shoulder against the seat" and the message "No Left shoulder Right shoulder Yes" to the display DSP as a notification prompting the seated person P to take action. The Yes and No displays may function as buttons that can be touched on the display DSP to input a Yes or No signal to the smartphone SP, respectively. If the participation acceptance processing unit 211 receives a Yes signal, it proceeds to game progression processing. If it receives a No signal, it terminates the app without proceeding to game progression processing. If a predetermined time has elapsed without receiving either a Yes or No signal, the game processing unit 210 transmits an acceptance termination signal to the control device 100 and terminates the app.

[0055] The calibration instruction unit 212 displays a calibration screen, transmits a calibration start signal to the control device 100, and receives, for a predetermined time, a signal related to calibration from the control device 100. After the predetermined time has elapsed, the calibration instruction unit 212 outputs a calibration end signal to the control device 100.

[0056] When the character movement processing unit 213 receives step strength F during the 100m race, it moves the character on the display DSP toward the goal. The amount of movement at this time depends on the magnitude of the step strength F. The character movement processing unit 213 moves the character by, for example, F [m] toward the goal.

[0057] The onomatopoeia determination unit 214 determines onomatopoeia (such as "toddling") that expresses the state of the seated person P running during the 100-meter race, and outputs the result on the display DSP. The onomatopoeia determination can be performed, for example, by comparing the step period TS, which is the period at which the seated person P moves his / her legs, with the determination conditions shown in FIG. 7. The step period TS is the period of the step strength F received from the control device 100, but since the intervals at which the step strength F is received are not constant, it can be calculated, for example, as the average period for the past 20 meters.

[0058] In this embodiment, in order to reduce the influence of individual differences among the seated person P, the step period TS is set to the normal step period TS n The value divided by is compared with a threshold value to determine whether the expression is an onomatopoeia. For example, TS / TS n If the period is 1.5 or more and is long, it is called "furafura," if it is 1.2 or more but less than 1.5 it is called "noshi noshi," if it is 0.7 or more but less than 1.2 it is called "sutasuta," and if it is less than 0.7 it is called "dotadota."

[0059] After the seated person P reaches the finish line of the 100m sprint game, the result output unit 219 determines the exercise result and advice and outputs them on the display DSP. The exercise result is also transmitted to the control device 100. Specifically, the result output unit 219 determines the exercise level, the amount of exercise, the exercise intensity, and advice as the results of the exercise.

[0060] The exercise level is determined based on the number of steps taken while running 100 meters and by referring to the exercise level determination table in Figure 8. For example, the exercise level determination table defines settings such as "slow stroll" if the number of steps is 60 or less, "everyday walking" if it is 61 to 110, "walking" if it is 111 to 140, "jogging" if it is 141 to 240, and "sprinting" if it is 240 or more.

[0061] The amount of exercise can be calculated, for example, by the cumulative value of step strength F during a 100m run.

[0062] Exercise intensity is expressed in METs (Metabolic equivalents). The value of exercise intensity can be determined, for example, by multiplying the number of steps taken while running 100 m by a predetermined coefficient.

[0063] The advice can be determined by referring to an advice table stored in advance in the storage unit 290. The advice table associates predetermined advice with parameters such as the number of steps, 100m finish time, and average step period. Then, after the finish of the 100m sprint, advice can be determined by searching for these parameters.

[0064] Then, the result output unit 219 determines the exercise level, amount of exercise, exercise intensity, and advice, and then displays these results on the display DSP.

[0065] Next, an example of the processing of the control device 100 and the application, including other processing of the game processing unit 210, will be described with reference to a flowchart.

[0066] First, the processing of the control device 100 will be described. The processes in FIGS. 9 to 12 are repeated. 9, the processing unit 120 first executes steps S11 to S17 related to game participation. Specifically, first, it is determined whether or not a participation acceptance signal has been received (S11). When the participation acceptance signal is received (S11, Yes), the processing unit 120 calculates the pressure value P6 R ,P6 L (S12) and obtain the pressure value P6 on the right. R It is determined whether P6 is greater than a threshold value P6th (S13). R If is greater than P6th (S13, Yes), a Yes signal is sent (S14) and the process for participating in the game is terminated. P6 R If the left pressure value P6 is not greater than P6th (S13, No), the processing unit 120 LIt is determined whether P6 is greater than P6th (S15). L If is greater than P6th (S15, Yes), a No signal is transmitted (S16), and the process for participating in the game is terminated.

[0067] P6 L If is not greater than P6th (S15, No), the processing unit 120 determines whether or not an acceptance end signal has been received (S17), and if not (S17, No), repeats the processing from step S12, and if received (S17, Yes), ends the processing related to game participation.

[0068] After the process related to game participation, the calibration processing unit 124 of the processing unit 120 executes steps S21 to S26 related to the calibration process, as shown in FIG. The processing unit 120 determines whether or not a calibration start signal has been received (S21), and if it has been received (S21, Yes), the pressure value P3 R ,P3 L Then, it is determined whether or not a calibration end signal has been received, and steps S22 to S23 are repeated until a calibration end signal has been received (S23, No), and if a calibration end signal has been received (S23, Yes), the process proceeds to step S24.

[0069] In step S24, the calibration processing unit 124 calculates the pressure value P3 R ,P3 L Based on normal pressure P3 n Then, calculate the normal pressure P3 n Furthermore, the normal step period TS is set to a threshold value P3th (S25). n is calculated and transmitted to the smartphone SP (S26). In step S21, if the calibration start signal has not been received (No), the calibration processing unit 124 proceeds to step S30 (see FIG. 11) without performing the calibration process.

[0070] Next, the processing unit 120 performs the processes relating to the race in steps S30 to S40. As shown in Fig. 11, first, the processing unit 120 determines whether or not a race start signal has been received from the smartphone SP (S30). If the race start signal has not been received (S30, No), the processing unit 120 ends the process. If the race start signal has been received (S30, Yes), the step signal output unit 125 outputs the pressure value P3 R ,P3 L is acquired and stored (S31).

[0071] And the pressure value P3 on the right R It is determined whether the pressure value P3 is smaller than the threshold value P3th (S32), and if it is smaller (S32, Yes), the pressure value P3 R It is determined whether a peak has been detected from the previous value and the current value of the normal pressure P3 (S33). If a peak has been detected (S33, Yes), the step signal output unit 125 outputs the normal pressure P3 n and pressure value P3 R Step strength F R (S34). Then, the calculated step strength F R is transmitted to the smartphone SP (S35). On the other hand, the right pressure value P3 R If is not smaller than the threshold value P3th (S32, No), or if a peak is not detected (S33, No), the step signal output unit 125 outputs the step intensity F R The process proceeds to step S36 without calculating or transmitting the value.

[0072] In steps S36 to S39, the step signal output unit 125 outputs the left pressure value P3 L For peak detection and step intensity F L These processes are the same as steps S31 to S35, so the explanation will be omitted.

[0073] In step S40, the processing unit 120 determines whether or not a race end signal has been received. If not (S40, No), the processing from step S31 is repeated; if received (S40, Yes), the processing ends.

[0074] Next, the processing in the application (game processing unit 210) of the smartphone SP will be described. When the app is launched, the smartphone SP starts processing the app and displays a start screen on the display DSP as shown in Fig. 12 (S110). The start screen is, for example, as shown in Fig. 15. The start screen displays the message "Do you want to participate? Please push your shoulder against the seat," along with an explanation that indicates "No" for left shoulder and "Yes" for right shoulder. The remaining time for participation is also displayed.

[0075] Then, the participation acceptance processing unit 211 transmits a participation acceptance signal to the control device 100 (S111). The participation acceptance processing unit 211 determines whether or not a Yes signal has been received (S112), and if received (S112, Yes), transmits an acceptance end signal to the control device 100 (S118), and terminates the processing after the game progress processing (S200). The game progress processing will be described later.

[0076] If the participation acceptance processing unit 211 has not received a Yes signal (S112, No), it determines whether or not a No signal has been received (S113), and if it has been received (S113, Yes), ends the processing. On the other hand, if a No signal has not been received (S113, No), a count indicating the remaining time is displayed (S114), and it is determined whether the count has reached 0 (S115). If the count has not reached 0 (S115, No), participation acceptance continues from step S112, and if the count has reached 0 (S115, Yes), an acceptance end signal is sent to the control device 100 (S116), and the process ends.

[0077] As shown in Fig. 13, in the game progression process (S200), first, the calibration instruction unit 212 displays a calibration screen on the display DSP (S211). The calibration screen displays, for example, a text instruction such as "Warming up, please raise your legs alternately while sitting" and the remaining time for calibration, as shown in Fig. 16. If an animation of a character CH1, such as a seat, running is displayed on the display DSP, it becomes easy to understand what the seated person P should do.

[0078] The calibration instruction unit 212 then transmits a calibration start signal to the control device 100 (S212). Then, the remaining time count is updated and displayed on the display DSP (S213), and it is determined whether the count has reached 0 (S214). If the count has not reached 0 (S214, No), the countdown display of step S213 continues, and if the count has reached 0 (S214, Yes), a calibration end signal is transmitted to the control device 100 (S215).

[0079] When the calibration is completed, the game processing unit 210 displays a race start screen (S220) as shown in Fig. 14. The race start screen is, for example, a screen as shown in Fig. 17, and displays the words "Get in position! Ready!" and the numbers counting down to the start. The race screen also displays 100m racing lanes and seat characters CH2 and CH3 in each lane. For example, if multiple lanes are displayed and there is another seated person P participating at the same time, the word "You" indicating the player and the word "SEAT2" indicating the participant in another seat will be displayed on each lane.

[0080] On the race start screen, after the countdown (flow omitted), when the race starts, the game processing unit 210 transmits a race start signal to the control device 100 (S221). Then, the character movement processing unit 213 adjusts the step strength F R ,F LIf it has been received (S222, Yes), the character movement processing unit 213 sets the step strength F R ,F L The character movement processing unit 213 then performs processing to move the character CH2 in accordance with the size of the character CH2 (S223). Then, the running distance L is updated and transmitted to the control device 100. The character movement processing unit 213 also displays the remaining distance on the display DSP (S224).

[0081] Next, the onomatopoeia determination unit 214 calculates the step period TS and the normal step period TS n The onomatopoeia to be displayed is determined from the above and displayed on the display DSP (S225). As a result, during the race, as shown in Fig. 18, animations of characters CH2 and CH3 running in each lane, the remaining distance, and onomatopoeia such as "sta-sta" are displayed. The game processing unit 210 also displays the time from the start. The character movement processing unit 213 determines the step strength F R ,F L If it has not been received (S222, No), the process proceeds to step S226 without executing steps S223 to S225.

[0082] Then, the game processing section 210 acquires the travel distance L of the character CH3 of the seated person P in the other seat from the control device 100, and moves the character CH3 in the other seat as necessary (S226).

[0083] Next, the character movement processing unit 213 determines whether the running distance L is 100 or more (S227), and if it is less than 100, repeats the race processing from step S222. On the other hand, if the running distance L is 100 or more (S227, Yes), a race end signal is sent to the control device 100 (S228). When the race is over, for example, a screen like that shown in FIG. 19 is displayed. On this screen, the remaining distance becomes 0 m, and the time at the finish line is displayed.

[0084] The result output unit 219 then determines the exercise level, amount of exercise, exercise intensity, and advice as the results of the exercise, and outputs these to the display DSP (S229). The result screen may be, for example, as shown in FIG. 20. The result screen may display the ranking of the athlete among all previous competitors based on data accumulated in the control device 100. If the result is good, a character CH5 with a happy face may be displayed, and if the result is poor, a character with a sad face may be displayed. When the result output unit 219 displays the exercise results, the processing of the application ends.

[0085] As described above, the vehicle seat S of this embodiment can provide the following effects. The control device 100 outputs the pressure values ​​acquired from the pressure sensors PS1 to PS6 to the smartphone SP as signals for operating the game app on the smartphone SP, so that the occupant P seated in the vehicle seat S can operate the smartphone SP by moving their legs and shoulders on the seat body S0. Therefore, whereas previously it was necessary to operate the smartphone SP by hand, it can now be operated by moving one's body on the seat body S0, allowing passengers to move their body moderately and refresh themselves when they get tired in the vehicle.

[0086] Furthermore, the pressure sensors PS1 to PS6 can detect the state of the seat surfaces S11, S21 facing the seated occupant P, making it easy for the seated occupant P to access the pressure sensors PS1 to PS6. In other words, the seated occupant P can operate the in-flight devices by changing the state of the seat surface, making it easy to operate the smartphone SP.

[0087] In addition, the Yes signal and the No signal are output on the condition that the pressure value P6 exceeds the threshold value P6th, and the step strength F is also output on the condition that the pressure value P3 exceeds the threshold value P3th from top to bottom, so that it is possible to prevent the seated person P from accidentally operating the smartphone SP against his or her intention.

[0088] Furthermore, a Yes signal is output based on the measurement value of the right pressure sensor PS6, and a No signal is output based on the measurement value of the left pressure sensor PS6, so that erroneous operations can be suppressed.

[0089] Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments. The specific configurations can be appropriately changed without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

[0090] For example, in the above embodiment, the present invention is applied to the operation of a 100-meter sprint game as an example of a game, but it can also be applied to the operation of other games. Furthermore, the onboard device to be operated is not limited to a smartphone, but may be a personal computer, a navigation system, etc. Furthermore, it is not limited to devices with displays, but may also be a telephone, audio equipment, etc. Note that in the present invention, the onboard device does not include the vehicle itself (the operation of driving the vehicle is the subject). However, as long as the operation is other than driving the vehicle, the onboard device may be a device fixedly installed in the vehicle, and the operation may be the operation of an air conditioner or the up and down movement of window glass. In this way, by making it possible to operate in-flight equipment through movements on the vehicle seat, even people who do not want to use their hands or people with physical disabilities who cannot use their hands can operate in-flight equipment by moving parts of their body or exerting force on certain muscles.

[0091] In the above embodiment, a pressure sensor is used as an example of the sensor, but the sensor may be another type of sensor, such as a capacitance sensor, etc. Furthermore, when measuring pressure, a pressure distribution sensor may also be used.

[0092] In the above embodiment, the control device 100 and a part of the smartphone SP constitute the control unit as a whole, but the control unit may be constituted by only the control device or only the smartphone. Also, the control unit may communicate with a computer provided in another location, such as a so-called cloud computer, and the cloud computer may constitute part or all of the control unit.

[0093] Furthermore, the signal for operating the on-board equipment referred to in the present invention may be the power itself for driving a motor or the like.

[0094] In the above embodiment, the control device and the smartphone are connected by wireless communication, but they may be connected by wired communication.

[0095] In the above embodiment, only the movements of raising and lowering the legs and pressing the shoulders against the seat back are exemplified as movements for operating the in-flight equipment, but the in-flight equipment may also be operated by other movements such as twisting the upper body, rocking back and forth, left and right, or rotating, or shaking the buttocks.

[0096] In the above embodiment, a seat installed in an automobile vehicle is exemplified as a vehicle seat, but the vehicle seat may also be a seat in a vehicle other than an automobile, such as a train, or a seat in a vehicle other than a ship, aircraft, etc.

[0097] Furthermore, the elements described in the embodiments and modifications described in this specification can be implemented in appropriate combinations. [Explanation of symbols]

[0098] 100 control device 110 Measurement value acquisition unit 120 Processing section 210 Game Processing Unit CR vehicle DSP Display P seated person PS1~PS6 pressure sensors S Vehicle seat S0 seat body S11 seat S21 seat SP Smartphone SYS system

Claims

1. a sensor that acquires measurements to identify the movement of an occupant sitting in a seat body installed in a vehicle; A control method for a seat system including a control unit connected to the sensor so as to be able to acquire the measurement value from the sensor, the sensors include a first sensor and a second sensor disposed at a position different from the first sensor, The control unit is communicably connected to an on-board device to be operated that is arranged in the vehicle, The control unit execute a first operation as an operation of the on-board device based on a first signal from the first sensor; a second operation being executed as the operation of the on-board device based on a second signal from the second sensor.

2. The control unit outputting a signal for operating the on-board device on condition that the measured value exceeds a threshold value; 2. The seat system control method according to claim 1, further comprising the step of: executing a calibration process for setting the threshold value based on a measurement value detected by the sensor.

3. 3. The method for controlling a seat system according to claim 2, wherein the control unit executes the calibration process after the first signal is input.

4. The seat body has a seat back, 4. The seat system control method according to claim 1, wherein the first sensor and the second sensor are sensors arranged at the highest positions among sensors provided on the seat back.

5. 4. The control method for a seat system according to claim 3, wherein the control unit calculates a normal step period, which is an average value of step periods, which are time intervals between peaks of values ​​acquired from the sensor, during the calibration process.

6. a sensor that acquires measurements to identify the movement of an occupant sitting in a seat body installed in a vehicle; a control unit connected to the sensor so as to be able to acquire the measurement value from the sensor, the sensors include a first sensor and a second sensor disposed at a position different from the first sensor, The control unit is communicably connected to an on-board device to be operated that is arranged in the vehicle, The computer program causes the control unit to execute a first operation as an operation of the on-board device based on a first signal from the first sensor; a computer program causing a second operation to be executed as an operation of the on-board device based on a second signal from the second sensor;

7. a sensor that acquires measurements to identify the movement of an occupant sitting in a seat body installed in a vehicle; a control unit connected to the sensor so as to be able to acquire the measurement value from the sensor; the sensors include a first sensor and a second sensor disposed at a position different from the first sensor, The control unit is communicably connected to an on-board device to be operated that is arranged in the vehicle, The computer program causes the control unit to execute a first operation as an operation of the on-board device based on a first signal from the first sensor; a storage medium for causing a second operation to be executed as an operation of the on-board device based on a second signal from the second sensor;

8. a sensor that acquires measurements to identify the movement of an occupant sitting in a seat body installed in a vehicle; A control device for a seat system including a control unit connected to the sensor so as to be able to acquire the measurement value from the sensor, the sensors include a first sensor and a second sensor disposed at a position different from the first sensor, The control device is communicably connected to an on-board device to be operated that is arranged in the vehicle, The control device execute a first operation as an operation of the on-board device based on a first signal from the first sensor; A seat system control device, comprising: a control device for executing a second operation as an operation of the on-board equipment based on a second signal from the second sensor.

9. a seat body installed in a vehicle; a sensor for acquiring measurements to identify the movement of an occupant sitting on the seat body; a control unit connected to the sensor so as to be able to acquire the measurement value from the sensor, The control unit a communication means for communicating with an on-board device to be operated, the on-board device being arranged in the vehicle; outputting a signal for operating the on-board device based on the measurement value; the sensors include a first sensor and a second sensor disposed at a position different from the first sensor, A vehicle seat characterized in that the control unit assigns a first operation as an operation of the onboard equipment based on the measurement value obtained from the first sensor, and a second operation as an operation of the onboard equipment based on the measurement value obtained from the second sensor.

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