Cushion

Abstract

To provide a cushion that reduces pressure load during sitting.SOLUTION: A cushion 1 includes a first cushion layer 11 having a first zone Z1 in which a first through slit 21 is formed, and a second zone Z2 in which a second through slit 22 is formed. The first through slit 21 and the second through slit 22 penetrate through the first cushion layer 11. The first through slit 21 has a width larger than that of the second through slit 22.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a cushion for a chair or wheelchair. [Background technology]

[0002] Cushions with body pressure redistribution properties have been proposed. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a cushioning material having a structure in which a second resin layer is laminated on a first resin layer, the first resin layer having holes, and the second resin layer laminated thereon having a cut pattern, each of which is composed of at least three cut grooves that penetrate the first resin layer in the thickness direction and intersect with each other. When a vertical load acts on this cut pattern, cantilever-shaped protrusions, which are regions between adjacent cut grooves in the cut pattern, and the peripheral areas of the protrusion regions continuous with the bases of these protrusions, elastically deform toward the holes so as to cover at least a portion of the opening edges and / or inner walls of the holes in the first resin layer.

[0003] As a result, the protrusions and the peripheral parts of the protrusion regions curve downward to cover the opening edge of the hole and the surrounding area of ​​the opening edge, so the peripheral parts of the ischial bones are supported by the downwardly curved protrusions and the peripheral parts of the protrusion regions, and as the protrusions curve and deform, the spaces between adjacent protrusions (the width of the cutouts) widen, increasing the proportion of gaps between the protrusions, thereby providing good distribution of the occupant's body pressure and stable support for the peripheral parts of the ischial bones, improving sitting stability. Moreover, when a horizontal load causing forward slippage is applied, the curved protrusions and the peripheral parts of the protrusion regions that cover the front opening edge and / or at least a portion of the inner wall of the hole (anchor points) flexibly abut and support the front edges of the occupant's ischial bones while maintaining the above-mentioned body pressure distribution and sitting stability, so that the forward movement of the ischial bones is gently suppressed, and forward slippage is effectively suppressed without causing inconveniences such as a sudden increase in contact pressure with the anchor points that locally block blood flow. In this way, it is described that the cushioning material of the present invention can maintain a predetermined body pressure distribution performance, and can also improve both sitting stability and the effect of suppressing forward slippage. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2020-31981 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] However, the cushioning material described in Patent Document 1 is expected to have the following problem: Because the first resin layer has holes, a person sitting on the second resin layer may experience excessive sinking around the ischial region. In other words, the amount of sinking experienced by the person in the holes and other areas of the second resin layer varies greatly, which may result in a loss of stability if the person shifts their seated position.

[0006] An object of the present invention is to provide a cushion that sinks to an appropriate amount according to the user's sitting position. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] A cushion according to an aspect of the present invention comprises a first cushion layer having a first zone in which a first through slit is formed and a second zone in which a second through slit narrower than the first through slit is formed.

[0008] According to this, the cushion has a first cushion layer, and the first and second through slits penetrate the first cushion layer, with the first through slit being wider than the second through slit. The portion where the first through slit is formed is more easily deformed than the portion where the second through slit is formed, resulting in a greater amount of sinking. Therefore, the cushion can be adjusted to an appropriate amount of sinking to suit the user's seating position. Furthermore, because the cushion sinks due to deformation caused by the first and second through slits, extreme changes in the amount of sinking are suppressed, and the user's seating position is stable and body pressure is distributed.

[0009] The cushion may also be configured so that the first zone is capable of supporting the user's buttocks and the second zone is capable of supporting the user's thighs.

[0010] In this case, the cushion has a first zone capable of supporting the buttocks and a second zone capable of supporting the thighs, so that when the user sits down, each part sinks in appropriately, providing body pressure dispersion.

[0011] The cushion may also include a second cushion layer laminated below the first cushion layer, and the second cushion layer may have a through slit formed therein that has the same shape as the first cushion layer.

[0012] In this case, the cushion includes a second cushion layer, and the second cushion layer has a through slit formed therein that has the same shape as the first cushion layer. The addition of the second cushion layer increases the thickness of the cushion, and the first and second through slits are formed deeper in the thickness direction. This makes the cushion more deformable, increasing the amount of sinking when the user sits down, and improving stability and body pressure distribution when sitting.

[0013] The cushion may also include a second cushion layer laminated below the first cushion layer, and a third cushion layer laminated below the second cushion layer.

[0014] In this case, the cushion is made up of three layers, from the first cushion layer to the third cushion layer, so that when the user sits down, the user feels natural and comfortable, with little feeling of hitting the bottom, and excellent body pressure distribution.

[0015] The cushion may also be used for a chair. In this case, when the cushion is used for a chair, the user can sit in a stable position and the body pressure can be dispersed. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0016] [Figure 1]FIG. 1(a) is a plan view of a cushion 1a according to a first embodiment of the present invention, (b) is a detailed view of a portion A1 in (a), and (c) is a detailed view of a portion A2 in (a). [Figure 2] FIG. 1 is a plan view of a cushion 1a according to a first embodiment of the present invention, showing the positional relationship between ischial region 18 and thigh region 9 of a user. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view showing section II in FIG. 2. [Figure 4] 4 is a cross-sectional view showing a state in which a user sits on the cushion 1a shown in FIG. 3. FIG. [Figure 5] 5 is a cross-sectional view showing a state in which the user shifts forward when standing up from the state shown in FIG. 4. FIG. [Figure 6] 3A and 3B are cross-sectional views showing the section II-II in FIG. 2, in which (a) shows the cushion 1a in its natural state, and (b) shows the cushion 1a when a user sits on it. [Figure 7] 10(a) is a plan view showing a cushion 1b of a second embodiment of the present invention, (b) is a detailed view of a portion A1 in (a), and (c) is a detailed view of a portion A2 in (a). [Figure 8] 10(a) is a plan view showing a cushion 1c according to a third embodiment of the present invention, (b) is a detailed view of part A1 in (a), and (c) is a detailed view of part A2 in (a). [Figure 9] FIG. 10(a) is a plan view showing a cushion 1d according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention, (b) is a detailed view of a portion A1 in (a), and (c) is a detailed view of a portion A2 in (a). [Figure 10] FIG. 10(a) is a plan view showing a cushion 1e according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention, (b) is a detailed view of part A1 in (a), and (c) is a detailed view of part A2 in (a). DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0017] A cushion 1 embodying the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. Note that the description of the embodiment and the drawings are used to explain technical features that may be adopted by the present invention. The present invention is not limited thereto. The configurations shown in the drawings are merely illustrative examples and are not intended to limit the present invention.

[0018] <<Common composition and effects of cushion 1>> The following describes the configuration and effects common to each embodiment of the cushion 1. As shown in FIG. 1 etc., the cushion 1 is formed in a substantially rectangular shape including a square when viewed from above from the first cushion layer 11, with one side defined as the front-to-rear direction and the direction perpendicular to the front-to-rear direction defined as the left-to-right direction. Furthermore, one side in the thickness direction is defined as the upper side and the other side as the lower side. Below, each element constituting the cushion 1 and its effects will be described.

[0019] <Configuration of first cushion layer 11> 1 etc., the cushion 1 includes a first cushion layer 11 having a first zone Z1 in which a first through slit 21 is formed and a second zone Z2 in which a second through slit 22 narrower in width than the first through slit 21 is formed. That is, the first through slit width W1 is wider than the second through slit width W2.

[0020] As shown in the example of FIG. 1 and the like, the first through slits 21 and the second through slits 22 are continuous and / or discontinuous straight or curved lines in a plan view from the first cushion layer 11, forming a polygonal shape. Examples of polygonal shapes include triangles, rectangles, pentagons, hexagons, and other polygonal shapes. As shown in FIG. 1(b) and the like, the first shape 31 is a triangle formed by the first through slits 21, and as shown in FIG. 1(c), the second shape 32 is a triangle formed by the second through slits 22. In the example shown in FIG. 1 and the like, the area of ​​the first shape 31 is larger than the area of ​​the second shape 32. The areas of the first shape 31 and the second shape 32 may be equal. Details of the polygonal shape, the first shape 31, and the second shape 32 will be described later.

[0021] <Effects of the Configuration of First Cushion Layer 11> The cushion 1 described above achieves the following effects due to the configuration of the first cushion layer 11. As shown in FIG. 1 and other figures, the cushion 1 includes the first cushion layer 11, and the first through slit 21 and the second through slit 22 penetrate the first cushion layer 11. The first through slit 21 is wider than the second through slit 22. The portion where the first through slit 21 is formed has a larger gap with the adjacent portion than the portion where the second through slit 22 is formed, making it more susceptible to deformation and resulting in a greater amount of sinking. Therefore, the cushion 1 can adjust the amount of sinking to suit the user's seated position. Furthermore, when the user sits on the cushion 1, the first through slit 21 and the second through slit 22 deform to cause sinking. This prevents extreme changes in the amount of sinking, stabilizing the user's seated position and providing body pressure distribution.

[0022] Furthermore, to reduce the difference in the amount of sinking between the first zone Z1 and the second zone Z2, the difference between the first through slit width W1 and the second through slit width W2 should be reduced. Conversely, to increase the difference in the amount of sinking between the first zone Z1 and the second zone Z2, the difference between the first through slit width W1 and the second through slit width W2 should be increased.

[0023] The deformation of the first shape 31 and the second shape 32 will now be described. As shown in FIGS. 3 and 6(a), the first shape 31 is at least partially separated in a planar direction including the front-rear and left-right directions by the first through slit 21. When a user sits down, the first shape 31 deforms in the direction of the arrow as shown in FIGS. 4 and 6(b). Similarly, the second shape 32 is at least partially separated and deformed in a planar direction including the front-rear and left-right directions by the second through slit 22. Because the first through slit width W1 is wider than the second through slit width W2, the first shape 31 deforms more than the second shape 32. Therefore, the first zone Z1 and the second zone Z2 can be made to sink in different amounts.

[0024] 1 and other figures, the area of ​​the first shape 31 of the cushion 1 is larger than the area of ​​the second shape 32. Therefore, when a user sits on the cushion, the first shape 31 deforms more than the second shape 32, and the amount of sinking increases. That is, the first zone Z1 in which the first shape 31 is formed can sink more than the second zone Z2 in which the second shape 32 is formed.

[0025] This is for the following reason. An explanation will be given using FIGS. 1(b) and 1(c) as an example. The first shape 31 is a triangle with a larger area than the second shape 32. In this case, the first shape 31 is separated from adjacent first shapes 31 by first through slits 21, and the separated portions are not constrained to each other. The separated portion corresponds to one side of the triangle. Similarly, the second shape 32 is separated from adjacent second shapes 32 by second through slits 22, and the separated portion corresponds to one side of the triangle of the second shape 32. In this case, the length of the triangle side of the first shape 31 separated by the first through slit 21 is longer than the length of the triangle side of the second shape 32 separated by the second through slit 22. As a result, the first shape 31 has a longer unconstrained portion than the second shape 32, making it more easily deformable and resulting in a larger amount of sinking. As already explained, when the requirement that the first through slit width W1 be wider than the second through slit width W2 is added, this effect results in an even greater amount of sinking of the first shape 31 than the second shape 32.

[0026] The area of ​​the first shape 31 may be equal to the area of ​​the second shape 32. In this case, since the first through slit width W1 is wider than the second through slit width W2, the first shape 31 is more easily deformed than the second shape 32, and the amount of sinking is greater.

[0027] <Explanation of the configuration and layout of the first zone Z1 and the second zone Z2> Next, the configuration and arrangement of the first zone Z1 and the second zone Z2 will be described. As shown in Figures 2 and 4, when a user sits on the cushion 1, the first zone Z1 can support the buttocks 8, and the second zone Z2 can support the thighs 9. As shown in Figure 1 etc., the cushion 1 is arranged so that the first zone Z1 and the second zone Z2 are separated in the front-to-rear direction in a plan view. The first zone Z1 is arranged on the rear side in the front-to-rear direction, and the second zone Z2 is arranged on the front side.

[0028] For example, as shown in Fig. 1 etc., the first zone Z1 and the second zone Z2 are separated by a first center line C1, which is the center line in the front-to-rear direction. The first zone Z1 and the second zone Z2 may be separated by a straight line, a curved line, a broken line, etc. Furthermore, the separation does not necessarily have to be by the first center line C1 in the front-to-rear direction, and the separation may be at a position other than the center in the front-to-rear direction.

[0029] As shown in FIG. 1, the first zone Z1 forms a plurality of first shape rows 41 in which the first shapes 31 are aligned in the left-right direction. The second zone Z2 forms a plurality of second shape rows 42 in which the second shapes 32 are aligned in the left-right direction. In the example shown in FIG. 1, the first shape rows 41 are formed in three rows in the front-rear direction. The second shape rows 42 are formed in four rows in the front-rear direction.

[0030] The first zone Z1 and the second zone Z2 may be disposed in the front-rear direction with a boundary portion 3 therebetween. The boundary portion 3 is formed with an area where neither the first through slit 21 nor the second through slit 22 is formed.

[0031] 3 to 5, the cushion 1 may have an edge portion 4 formed in a predetermined range from the front end toward the rear in the front-to-rear direction. Neither the first through slit 21 nor the second through slit 22 is formed in the edge portion 4. The second zone Z2 is formed rearward of the edge portion 4 in the front-to-rear direction.

[0032] <Effects of the configuration and layout of the first zone Z1 and the second zone Z2> The above-described configuration and arrangement of the first zone Z1 and second zone Z2 provides the following effects: As shown in Figures 2 and 4, the first zone Z1 of the cushion 1 can support the buttocks 8, and the second zone Z2 can support the thighs 9, so that when the user sits down, each zone sinks in appropriately, providing body pressure dispersion.

[0033] Furthermore, since the first shape rows 41 and the second shape rows 42 are aligned in the left-right direction, the difference in the amount of sinking is small even if the user's seating position shifts in the left-right direction. Therefore, the cushion 1 allows the user's seating position to shift in the left-right direction.

[0034] With reference to FIGS. 3 to 5, the state before the user sits down, the state after the user sits down, and the state when the user stands up will be described. As shown in FIG. 3, the cushion 1 shows no deformation in the first shape 31 or the second shape 32 before the user sits down. As shown in FIG. 4, when the user sits down, the first shape 31 in the first zone Z1 deforms rearward and forward around the ischial region 18, causing the cushion 1 to sink. Next, as shown in FIG. 5, when the user stands up, the ischial region 18 and the thighs 9 tend to shift forward, causing both the first shape 31 in the first zone Z1 and the second shape 32 in the second zone Z2 to tilt forward. In contrast, the edge portion 4 and the boundary portion 3 show little deformation. This is for the following reason.

[0035] In the boundary portion 3, the region where neither the first through slit 21 nor the second through slit 22 is formed has a smaller amount of deformation than the first zone Z1 and the second zone Z2. Therefore, when the cushion 1 tries to shift forward when the user stands up, the boundary portion 3 can prevent the cushion 1 from shifting between the ischial region 18 and the thigh region 9.

[0036] In addition, the edge portion 4 is located at the front end and has neither the first through slit 21 nor the second through slit 22, so the amount of deformation is smaller than in the first zone Z1 and the second zone Z2. Therefore, when the cushion 1 tries to shift forward when the user stands up, the edge portion 4 can prevent the cushion 1 from shifting at the thigh 9.

[0037] As shown in FIG. 3 and other figures, if the cushion 1 is covered with a cover 5 and an anti-slip surface 6 is formed on the underside of the cover 5, the cushion 1 can be further prevented from slipping.

[0038] <Explanation of the polygonal shape of cushion 1> Next, the polygonal shape of the cushion 1 will be described in detail with reference to FIG. 1 and other figures. The polygonal shape includes a first shape 31, a second shape 32, a third shape 33, and a fourth shape 34. The third shape 33 is formed in the first zone Z1 by a plurality of first shapes 31 adjacent to each other radially around a center point C3 of the third shape 33. The center point C3 is located a first distance L1 from the front end in the front-rear direction. The third shapes 33 are also arranged symmetrically across a second center line C2, which is the center line in the left-right direction, and the distance between the center points C3 is a second distance L2. The first distance L1 is longer than the second distance L2. The fourth shape 34 is formed in the second zone Z2 by a plurality of second shapes 32 adjacent to each other radially around a center point C4 of the fourth shape 34.

[0039] As shown in Fig. 4, the first distance L1 is set to correspond to the distance from the center of the user's ischial regions 18 to the inside of the knees of the thighs 9. As shown in Fig. 6(b), the second distance L2 is set to correspond to the distance between the centers of the user's left and right ischial regions 18. Specific examples of the first shape 31, second shape 32, and third shape 33 in each embodiment will be described later. As described above, when the user sits on the cushion 1, the third shape 33 is formed so that the ischial regions 18 are aligned with the position of the center point C3.

[0040] As illustrated in FIGS. 1, 2, and 7 to 10, the first shape 31 is a triangle, and the third shape 33 is a hexagon formed by six triangular first shapes 31 adjacent to each other radially around a center point C3. As illustrated in FIGS. 1, 2, and 7 to 10, the second shape 32 is a triangle, and the fourth shape 34 is a hexagon formed by six triangular second shapes 32 adjacent to each other radially around a center point C4. For example, the triangle of the first shape 31 and the triangle of the second shape 32 are similar in shape, and the triangle of the first shape 31 has a larger area than the triangle of the second shape 32. For example, the third shape 33 and the fourth shape 34 are similar in shape, and the hexagon of the third shape 33 has a larger area than the hexagon of the fourth shape 34.

[0041] <Effect of the polygonal shape of cushion 1> The polygonal shape of the cushion 1 described above provides the following effects. As shown in Figures 4 and 6, the third shape 33 tends to deform inward as the first shape 31 moves toward the center point C3, as indicated by the arrows. This makes it easier for the cushion to sink in around the center point C3, providing a stable seating experience and excellent body pressure distribution.

[0042] 4, when a user sits with their ischial region 18 aligned with the center point C3 of the cushion 1, the rear first shape 31 tilts forward and the front first shape 31 tilts backward relative to the center point C3. That is, in the front-to-rear direction, the first shape 31 tilts toward the center point C3, causing the ischial region 18 to sink. Therefore, when the user sits, they can feel stable sitting in the front-to-rear direction.

[0043] 2 and 6, when a user sits with their ischial region 18 aligned with the center point C3 of the cushion 1, the first shape 31 on the left side tilts to the right around the center point C3, and the first shape 31 on the right side tilts to the left. That is, in the left-right direction, the first shape 31 tilts toward the center point C3, causing the ischial region 18 to sink. Although not shown, in a diagonal direction between the front-rear direction and the left-right direction, the first shape 31 also tilts toward the center point C3, causing the ischial region 18 to sink. Therefore, when a user sits on the cushion 1, the seating position is stable and body pressure distribution is excellent in any direction, including the front-rear direction, the left-right direction, and the diagonal direction.

[0044] Furthermore, the center point C3 is located at a first distance L1 from the front end, and the distance from the center point C3 in the left-right direction is a second distance L2. Since the distance between the ischial bones 18 and the knees is longer than the distance between the ischial bones 18 in the left-right direction, when the position of the ischial bones 18 coincides with the position of the center point C3, the seating position is stable and body pressure distribution is excellent.

[0045] Furthermore, it is desirable that the first distance L1 corresponds to the distance between the ischial bones 18 and the knees, and the second distance L2 corresponds to the distance between the ischial bones 18 in the left-right direction. In this case, the position of the user's ischial bones 18 and the position of the center point C3 tend to coincide. Therefore, when the user sits on the cushion 1, the sitting position is stable and body pressure distribution is excellent.

[0046] 1(b) and other figures, the third shape 33 is a hexagon, and six triangular first shapes 31 are formed adjacent to each other radially around a center point C3. The first shape 31 is easily deformed toward the center point C3. Therefore, when the user sits down, if the ischial region 18 coincides with the center point C3 of the third shape 33, the first shape 31 deforms and sinks, resulting in a stable seating position and excellent body pressure distribution.

[0047] 1(c) and other figures, the fourth shape 34 is a hexagon, and six second shapes 32, which are similar in shape to the first shape 31 and are triangular, are formed adjacent to each other radially around a center point C4. Therefore, the fourth shape 34 deforms while exhibiting the same behavior as the third shape 33, so that when a user sits down, the user can enjoy the same seating comfort regardless of the seated position.

[0048] <Configuration of second cushion layer 12> Next, the second cushion layer 12 will be described. As shown in Fig. 3 etc., the cushion 1 includes a second cushion layer 12 laminated below the first cushion layer 11. The second cushion layer 12 has a through slit formed therein that has the same shape as the first cushion layer 11. That is, in the second cushion layer 12, the first through slit 21 is formed in the same shape so as to penetrate the second cushion layer 12, and the second through slit 22 is formed in the same shape so as to penetrate the second cushion layer 12.

[0049] <Effect of second cushion layer 12> The above-described configuration of the second cushion layer 12 provides the following effects. As shown in FIG. 3 and other figures, the first through slits 21 and the second through slits 22 of the cushion 1 each have the same shape and penetrate the second cushion layer 12. Compared to when the cushion 1 consists of only the first cushion layer 11, the addition of the second cushion layer 12 increases the thickness of the cushion 1, and the first through slits 21 and the second through slits 22 are formed deeper in the thickness direction. Therefore, the first shape 31 and the second shape 32 are more easily deformed, increasing the amount of sinking when the user sits down, and further improving stability and body pressure distribution when sitting.

[0050] Furthermore, the first through slits 21 and the second through slits 22 can be formed in the first cushion layer 11 and the second cushion layer 12 using a simplified process. For example, when the cushion 1 is formed by bonding the first cushion layer 11 and the second cushion layer 12, the first through slits 21 and the second through slits 22 can be formed in a single press process. Alternatively, when the first cushion layer 11 and the second cushion layer 12 are separate bodies, the first through slits 21 and the second through slits 22 can be formed in the same process using the same press mold. If the first through slits 21 and the second through slits 22 are located in different positions or have different planar shapes in the first cushion layer 11 and the second cushion layer 12, respectively, it would require a lot of manufacturing effort to form the first cushion layer 11 and the second cushion layer 12 separately. In contrast, the cushion 1 can shorten the manufacturing process or simplify the manufacturing equipment.

[0051] The second cushion layer 12 may be formed to be harder than the first cushion layer 11. In this case, compared to the case where only the first cushion layer 11 is provided, when the user sits down, the user feels more natural and less like they are hitting the bottom.

[0052] <Configuration of third cushion layer 13> Next, the third cushion layer 13 will be described. As shown in FIG. 3 etc., the cushion 1 may include a second cushion layer 12 laminated under the first cushion layer 11 in the thickness direction, and a third cushion layer 13 laminated under the second cushion layer 12. Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 3 etc., the cushion 1 may be covered with a cover 5, and an anti-slip member 6 may be formed on the underside of the cover 5. In this case, the cushion 1 placed on the chair 50 will not easily slip on the seat portion 52.

[0053] Furthermore, the cushion 1 may have the first cushion layer 11, the second cushion layer 12, and the third cushion layer 13 in this order of hardness. For example, the hardness of the first cushion layer 11 is between 80N and 160N, the hardness of the second cushion layer 12 is between 110N and 200N, and the hardness of the third cushion layer 13 is between 180N and 300N. The hardness of each layer is set to increase in this order from the first cushion layer 11 to the third cushion layer 13 within the illustrated range. As a specific example, the first cushion layer 11 is 150N, the second cushion layer 12 is 180N, and the third cushion layer 13 is 245N. The hardness values ​​are measured in accordance with the JIS K 6400-2D method (25% compression). For example, the densities of the first cushion layer 11, the second cushion layer 12, and the third cushion layer 13 are 20kg / m 3 to 60 kg / m 3 The density measurement is based on the measurement standard JIS K 7222.

[0054] <Effect of third cushion layer 13> The above-described configuration of the third cushion layer 13 provides the following effects. Because the cushion 1 is made up of three layers, from the first cushion layer 11 to the third cushion layer 13, when the user sits down, the cushion 1 provides a natural sitting comfort with little feeling of hitting the bottom, and has excellent body pressure distribution. For example, if the cushion 1 has the first cushion layer 11, the second cushion layer 12, and the third cushion layer 13 in that order of hardness, the amount of sinking is large when the first cushion layer 11 is compressed at the start of sitting, and the amount of sinking decreases as the second cushion layer 12 and the third cushion layer 13 are compressed in that order.

[0055] 4 and other examples show only examples including the first cushion layer 11, the second cushion layer 12, and the third cushion layer 13, but the cushion 1 may be configured with only the first cushion layer 11, or may be configured with the first cushion layer 11 and the second cushion layer 12, or may be configured with the first cushion layer 11 and the third cushion layer 13. The effects described for the configuration of the first cushion layer 11 and the configuration of the second cushion layer 12 are also achieved in the case where the third cushion layer 13 is provided.

[0056] <<Configurations and Effects Unique to Each Embodiment of the Cushion 1>> Next, the configurations and effects specific to each embodiment of the cushion 1 according to the aspects of the present invention will be described. The embodiments are five forms, from cushion 1a of the first embodiment to cushion 1e of the fifth embodiment. The content described below includes cases where each cushion 1 includes only the first cushion layer 11, cases where the first cushion layer 11 and the second cushion layer 12 are included, and cases where the first cushion layer 11 to the third cushion layer 13 are included.

[0057] <Configuration and Effects of Cushion 1a of First Embodiment> A cushion 1a according to a first embodiment of the present invention will be described. The same configurations and effects as those already described will be omitted. As shown in FIG. 1(b), the first shape 31a forming the third shape 33a of the cushion 1a is a triangle whose three vertices 7 are all connected to the first cushion layer 11 and the second cushion layer 12. The third shape 33a and the fourth shape 34a are hexagonal. Similarly, as shown in FIG. 1(c), the second shape 32a forming the fourth shape 34a of the cushion 1a is a triangle whose three vertices 7 are all connected to the first cushion layer 11 and the second cushion layer 12. The first through slit 21 and the second through slit 22 are both formed linearly, and this is the same for cushions 1b to 1d.

[0058] According to the configuration of the cushion 1a of the first embodiment described above, when the first shape 31a attempts to deform, the deformation is constrained by the connecting portions between the first shapes 31a and adjacent second shapes 32a. Similarly, when the second shape 32a attempts to deform, the deformation is constrained by the connecting portions between the second shapes 32a and adjacent first shapes 31a. Therefore, when a user sits on the cushion 1a, the deformation is constrained within a certain range, preventing excessive sinking. Furthermore, since the individual deformation amounts of the first shape 31a and the second shape 32a are limited, durability is improved. Furthermore, since all three vertices 7 of the first shape 31a and the second shape 32a are connected, they do not separate even after the first through slits 21 and the second through slits 22 are punched during the manufacturing process of the cushion 1a, resulting in high productivity.

[0059] <Configuration and Effects of Cushion 1b of Second Embodiment> Next, a cushion 1b according to a second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. 7(b). As shown in FIG. 7(b), the first shape 31b forming the third shape 33b of the cushion 1b has a shape in which two of the three vertices 7 of the triangle are connected to the first cushion layer 11 and the second cushion layer 12. Compared to the cushion 1a, one of the vertices 7 of the triangle is separated. Similarly, as shown in FIG. 7(c), the second shape 32b forming the fourth shape 34b is similar to the first shape 31b. The third shape 33b and the fourth shape 34b are hexagonal, just like the cushion 1a.

[0060] According to the configuration of the cushion 1b of the second embodiment described above, when the first shape 31b tries to deform, the deformation is constrained by the connection of two of the three vertices 7 with the adjacent first shape 31b. The same is true for the second shape 32b. Therefore, the cushion 1b deforms more than the cushion 1a, and can increase the amount of sinking when a user sits on it.

[0061] <Configuration and Effects of Cushion 1c of Third Embodiment> Next, a cushion 1c according to a third embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. 8. As shown in FIG. 8(b), the first shape 31c forming the third shape 33c of the cushion 1c is connected to the first cushion layer 11 and the second cushion layer 12 at one of the three vertices 7 of the triangle. Compared to the cushion 1a, two of the vertices 7 of the triangle are separated. Similarly, as shown in FIG. 8(c), the second shape 32c forming the fourth shape 34c is similar to the first shape 31c. The third shape 33c and the fourth shape 34c are hexagonal, just like the cushion 1a.

[0062] According to the configuration of the cushion 1c of the third embodiment described above, when the first shape 31c tries to deform, the deformation is restricted only by the connection of one of the three vertices 7 with another adjacent first shape 31c. The same is true for the second shape 32c. Therefore, the cushion 1c deforms more than the cushion 1b, and can sink in more when a user sits on it.

[0063] <Configuration and Effects of Cushion 1d of Fourth Embodiment> Next, a cushion 1d according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. 9(b). As shown in FIG. 9(b), a first shape 31d forming a third shape 33d of the cushion 1d has a shape in which all three vertices 7 of the triangle are separated from the first cushion layer 11 and the second cushion layer 12. Compared to the cushion 1a, three of the vertices 7 of the triangle are separated. Similarly, as shown in FIG. 9(c), a second shape 32d forming a fourth shape 34d is similar to the first shape 31d. The third shape 33d and the fourth shape 34d are hexagonal, just like the cushion 1a.

[0064] According to the configuration of the cushion 1d of the fourth embodiment described above, when the first shape 31d tries to deform, the deformation is not restricted by the adjacent first shapes 31d because all three vertices 7 are separated. The same is true for the second shape 32d. Therefore, the cushion 1d deforms more than the cushion 1c, and can further increase the amount of sinking when a user sits on it.

[0065] <Configuration and Effects of Cushion 1e of Fifth Embodiment> Next, a cushion 1e according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Fig. 10. As shown in Fig. 10(b), a first shape 31e forming a third shape 33e of the cushion 1e is a triangle formed by a curved first through slit 21 relative to the cushion 1a. As shown in Fig. 10(c), a second shape 32e forming a fourth shape 34e is a triangle formed by a curved second through slit 22. The third shape 33e and the fourth shape 34e are hexagonal like the cushion 1a, except that they are formed by curved lines.

[0066] The curved shape of the first through slits 21 and the second through slits 22 of the cushion 1e provides the following advantages. When a user sits on the cushion, the first shape 31e and the second shape 32e are subjected to pressure that causes them to shift in any of the front-rear, left-right, and diagonal directions. Because the curved shape of the first through slits 21 and the second through slits 22 makes it easier for the first shape 31e and the second shape 32e to come into contact with adjacent first shapes 31e or second shapes 32e when they attempt to deform in any of the front-rear, left-right, and diagonal directions, and thus the deformation is more likely to be restricted. Pressure in the thickness direction causes the first through slits 21 and the second through slits 22 to deform in the same way as if they were linear. Therefore, the cushion 1e can maintain its sinking amount while suppressing shifts in the front-rear, left-right, and diagonal directions.

[0067] In the cushions 1b of the second embodiment to the cushion 1d of the fourth embodiment described above, the second shape 32a may be formed in the second zone Z2. In this case, the second shape 32a is less deformed and has a smaller amount of sinking compared to the other second shapes 32b, 32c, and 32d, so that the difference in the amount of sinking between the first zone Z1 and the second zone Z2 can be further increased in each embodiment.

[0068] In addition, the cushion 1c of the third embodiment and the cushion 1d of the fourth embodiment may have a second shape 32b formed in the second zone Z2. Furthermore, the cushion 1d of the fourth embodiment may have a second shape 32c formed in the second zone Z2. In these cases, the difference in the amount of sinking between the first zone Z1 and the second zone Z2 can be further increased.

[0069] <<Description and effects of chair cushion 1>> Next, a description will be given of the cushion 1 for use in a chair. All of the cushions 1 described above can be used in chairs. An example of a chair 50 is a wheelchair. As illustrated in FIG. 3 etc., the underside of the third cushion layer 13 is placed on a seat portion 52. The seat portion 52 is supported by chair legs 53. As shown in FIG. 3 etc., the cushion 1 is attached so that the rear side in the front-to-rear direction is in contact with a backrest portion 51 of the wheelchair. As shown in FIG. 1 etc., the left and right corners on the rear side are formed in a rounded shape to avoid contact with the poles of the wheelchair.

[0070] As shown in Figure 2 etc., the rear side in the front-to-rear direction is the first zone Z1, and the front side is the second zone Z2. The first zone Z1 and the second zone Z2 are separated by a boundary portion 3. As shown in Figures 2 and 4, when a user sits on the top of the first cushion layer 11, the buttocks 8 are supported by the first zone Z1, and the thighs 9 are supported by the second zone Z2. It goes without saying that the chair 50 is not limited to a wheelchair, and can also be used for a regular chair.

[0071] As described above, when the cushion 1 is used for a chair, the effects of the cushion 1 already described are exhibited, and the user's seating position is stabilized and body pressure is distributed. [Explanation of symbols]

[0072] 1, 1a, 1b, 1c, 1d, 1f cushion 8 Buttocks 9 Thigh 11 First cushion layer 12 Second cushion layer 13 Third cushion layer 21 First through slit 22 Second through slit 50 chairs Z1 First Zone Z2 Second Zone

Claims

1. a first zone in which a first through slit is formed; a second zone in which a second through slit narrower than the first through slit is formed; A cushion comprising a first cushion layer having:

2. the first zone is capable of supporting the user's buttocks; 10. The cushion of claim 1, wherein the second zone is capable of supporting the thighs of a user.

3. a second cushion layer laminated under the first cushion layer, The cushion according to claim 1 , wherein the second cushion layer has a through slit having the same shape as the first cushion layer.

4. a second cushion layer laminated under the first cushion layer; The cushion according to claim 1 , further comprising a third cushion layer laminated under the second cushion layer.

5. 5. The cushion according to claim 1, which is for a chair.

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