child seat

Abstract

To provide a child safety seat that can absorb the impact on the occupant in the event of a major impact such as an accident. [Solution] A child seat to be installed in a vehicle that allows a person to get on and off and has a vehicle-side seat in which the person sits, comprising a seating portion inside in which a person sits and whose exterior faces the vehicle-side seat, and a deformation module, wherein the deformation module 3 comprises a base portion 4 provided on the seating portion and a plate-shaped receiving plate portion 6 connected to the base, the receiving plate portion is provided spaced apart from the base in the inward and outward directions of the seating portion, and the deformation module is configured to deform in the inward and outward directions so that the receiving plate portion moves relatively closer to the base in the inward and outward directions when subjected to an impact in the inward and outward directions.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a child seat.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, as a child seat, a child seat as described in Patent Document 1 is known. The child seat includes a shell formed of a rigid synthetic resin, a pad disposed within the shell and serving as a shock absorber for forming a seating portion, and a seat cover covering the surface of the pad.

[0003] According to the child seat configured as described above, it is said that the pad as a shock absorber can ensure breathability and appropriate cushioning properties.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] In a child seat as described in Patent Document 1, for example, a large impact due to an accident or the like cannot be sufficiently absorbed, and a large impact may be transmitted to the seated person.

[0006] Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a child seat that can absorb the impact applied to the seated person when receiving a large impact due to an accident or the like.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0007] The child seat of the present invention is a child seat installed in a vehicle that allows a person to get in and out and has a vehicle-side seat on which the person sits, and comprises a seating portion on the inside on which a person sits and on the outside which faces the vehicle-side seat, and a deformation module, wherein the deformation module comprises a base portion provided on the seating portion and a plate-shaped receiving plate portion connected to the base portion, wherein the receiving plate portion is provided spaced apart from the base portion in the inward and outward direction of the seating portion, and the deformation module is configured to deform in the inward and outward direction so that the receiving plate portion moves relatively closer to the base portion in the inward and outward direction when subjected to an impact in the inward and outward direction.

[0008] With this configuration, the deformation module deforms so that when it receives an impact in the inward or outward direction, the receiving plate connected to the base and the base move closer together in the inward or outward direction. Thus, the impact in the inward or outward direction can be absorbed by the deformation of the deformation module.

[0009] Furthermore, the receiving plate portion may also include a deformable body portion composed of a leaf spring that extends along a surface that extends in a direction intersecting the inward and outward directions, and the deformable body portion may be configured to deform in the inward and outward directions to move closer to the base portion in those directions upon receiving an impact in those directions.

[0010] With this configuration, the deformable main body, which is made of leaf springs, can absorb shocks in the inward and outward directions by deforming, so the deformation module can absorb shocks in the inward and outward directions by the thickness required for the leaf springs to deform.

[0011] Furthermore, the deformable body portion can be configured to have multiple holes that penetrate in the inward and outward directions.

[0012] With this configuration, the deformation performance of the leaf spring in the deformation body can be adjusted by changing the position, shape, and number of holes. Therefore, the shock absorption performance can be adjusted.

[0013] Furthermore, the base portion may also be configured to include a fixing portion that is fixed to the seating portion.

[0014] With this configuration, the deformation module can be fixed to the seat by the fixing part, so that the deformation module does not shift position relative to the seat due to impact or the like. Therefore, the deformation module can reliably absorb impact.

[0015] Furthermore, the seating portion may also be configured to include a rigid frame portion that has rigidity and forms a seating area inside where the sitter sits, and the deformation module may be provided on the rigid frame portion.

[0016] With this configuration, a deformation module is provided in the rigid frame section, so that the deformation module can reliably receive impacts acting in the inward and outward directions.

[0017] Furthermore, the seating portion may also be configured to include a rigid frame portion that has rigidity and forms a seating area inside where the sitter sits, and a cushion portion that has cushioning properties and is provided inside the rigid frame portion, with the deformation module being provided on the cushion portion.

[0018] With this configuration, a deformation module is provided in the seat portion located inside the rigid frame, allowing the deformation module to be positioned between the seated person and the rigid frame, thereby absorbing the impact generated between the seated person and the rigid frame.

[0019] Furthermore, the seating portion may also be configured to include a rigid frame portion that has rigidity and forms a seating area inside on which the sitter sits, and an impact absorbing portion provided on the outside of the rigid frame portion, with the deformation module being provided on the impact absorbing portion.

[0020] With this configuration, since the deformation module is provided in the shock-absorbing section located on the outside of the rigid frame, when an impact is applied to the rigid frame from the outside, the impact can be absorbed by the shock-absorbing section while the deformation module deforms, thereby absorbing the impact and suppressing the impact being transmitted to the seated person through the rigid frame. [Effects of the Invention]

[0021] According to the present invention, when a large impact is received due to an accident or the like, a child seat capable of absorbing the impact applied to the occupant can be obtained.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0022] [Figure 1] It is a perspective view showing a child seat according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] It is an exploded perspective view of the headrest portion of the child seat. [Figure 3] It is a cross-sectional view of the headrest portion of the child seat. [Figure 4] It is a perspective view showing a deformation module of the child seat. [Figure 5] It is a front view showing the deformation module. [Figure 6] It is a perspective view showing a state in which the deformation module is deformed. [Figure 7] It is a perspective view showing a deformation module of a child seat according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] It is a perspective view showing a deformation module of a child seat according to a third embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9] It is a perspective view showing a deformation module of a child seat according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10] It is a perspective view showing a deformation module of a child seat according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 11] It is a perspective view showing a deformation module of a child seat according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 12] It is a schematic view showing a deformation module of a child seat according to a seventh embodiment of the present invention.

Modes for Carrying Out the Invention

[0023] A child seat C according to the first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Figures 1 to 6. For the sake of explanation, the front-to-back, up-and-down, and left-to-right directions will be described based on the directions shown in Figure 1. In addition, the vertical, horizontal, and thickness directions of the deformation module 3 will be described based on the directions shown in Figure 4. These directions are used for the sake of explanation and do not limit the directions in the usage state, etc.

[0024] First, let's describe the vehicle on which this child seat C is installed. A vehicle is a moving object that allows people to get in and out and to carry the people riding in it, such as an automobile, train, or aircraft. A vehicle is equipped with vehicle-side seats for people to sit on. Vehicle-side seats include a vehicle-side seat on which the driver sits and a vehicle-side seat on which other people sit. The child seat C is installed on the vehicle-side seat, in particular on the vehicle-side seat on which other people sit. The child seat C of this embodiment comprises a base (not shown) fixed to the vehicle-side seat and a seat body 1 installed on the base. The base is fixed, for example, to a fastener (latch) compatible with the ISOFIX system provided on the vehicle, and is immovable relative to the vehicle-side seat.

[0025] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the seat body 1 comprises a seating section 10 for the person (child) to sit on, a belt section 2 for securing the person to the seating section 10, and a deformation module 3. In this embodiment, the seat body 1 is configured so that a child can sit on the seating section 10 in a seated position, but it is not limited to this configuration. For example, it can also be configured so that an infant or other child can sit in a reclining position. In other words, "seated" refers to the state in which the person is contained within the seat body 1 in either a seated or reclining position.

[0026] The seating section 10 comprises a rigid frame section 11 that has rigidity and forms a seating area 1a inside for a person to sit on, and a cushion section 12 that has cushioning properties and is positioned to cover the inside of the rigid frame section 11. The seating section 10 is positioned so that a person can sit in the seating area 1a inside, and its outer side faces the vehicle's seat.

[0027] The rigid frame section 11 is configured to surround the rear and both sides of the seating area 1a, and has sufficient rigidity to prevent deformation when a person sits on the seating area 1a, and also has higher rigidity than the seat base section 12 and the deformation module 3. Specifically, the rigid frame section 11 includes a seat base section 13 that forms a seat surface facing the seater's buttocks, a backrest section 14 that contacts the seater's back, seat side sections 15 connected to both the left and right ends of the seat base section 13 and the backrest section 14, defining the left and right ends of the seating area 1a, a headrest 16 that contacts the seater's head, and a height adjustment section 17 for adjusting the height of the backrest section 14 and the headrest 16.

[0028] The seat portion 13 is a plate-like body that extends in a direction intersecting the vertical direction and forms the lower end of the seating portion 10. Its upper surface is flat and is configured as a seat surface that faces the buttocks of the sitter, and the seat surface defines the lower end of the seating area 1a. The seat portion 13 is also positioned so that its lower surface faces the seat surface of the vehicle-side seat.

[0029] The backrest portion 14 is a plate-like body that extends in a direction intersecting the front-to-back direction and forms the rear end of the seat portion 10. Its front surface is flat and faces the back of the seated person. The backrest portion 14 is positioned so that its front surface defines the rear end of the seating area 1a and its rear surface faces the backrest surface of the vehicle seat. The backrest portion 14 is connected to the seat portion 13 so as to extend upward from the rear end of the seat portion 13. Furthermore, the backrest portion 14 is configured to be able to change its vertical length. Specifically, it comprises a plate-like fixed back portion 18 fixed to the seat portion 13 so as not to move relative to it in the vertical direction, and a plate-like movable back portion 19 connected to the fixed back portion 18 so as to be able to move relative to it in the vertical direction. The vertical length of the entire backrest portion 14 is changed by the movable back portion 19 moving upward relative to the fixed back portion 18.

[0030] The seat side portion 15 is a pair of plate-like bodies that extend in the front-rear direction and are positioned opposite each other in the left-right direction, with the inner surface in the left-right direction defining the left-right end of the seating area 1a. Furthermore, the inner surface of the seat side portion 15 in the left-right direction is configured as a surface that faces the sitter from the side.

[0031] As shown in Figure 2, the headrest 16 is a plate-like body with a roughly C-shape in plan view, convex towards the rear, and is attached to the upper end of the backrest 14, specifically the upper end of the movable backrest 19. The headrest 16 is also capable of accommodating the sitter's head in the inner area of ​​its curved shape. Specifically, the headrest 16 comprises a occipital support portion 161 located in the middle in the left-right direction, and a pair of temporal support portions 162 extending forward from the left-right ends of the occipital support portion 161 and arranged opposite each other in the left-right direction. The occipital support portion 161 faces the sitter's occipital head and can support the sitter's occipital head from behind. The temporal support portions 162 face the sitter's temporal head and can support the sitter's temporal head from the outside in the left-right direction.

[0032] As shown in Figures 1 to 3, the height adjustment unit 17 is configured to allow the headrest 16 and the movable backrest 19 of the backrest 14 to move vertically. Specifically, the height adjustment unit 17 includes a first adjustment unit 171 that moves the movable backrest 19 and the headrest 16 together vertically, and a second adjustment unit (not shown) that moves the headrest 16 vertically relative to the movable backrest 19. The first adjustment unit 171 is a lever provided at the upper end of the movable backrest 19, and by operating the lever, the movable backrest 19 and the headrest 16 attached to the movable backrest 19 can be moved vertically relative to the fixed backrest 18. The second adjustment unit is a lever provided on the rear surface of the movable backrest 19, and by operating the lever, the headrest 16 can be moved vertically relative to the movable backrest 19. Note that the specific configuration of the height adjustment unit 17 is not limited to this example. When a height adjustment unit 17 is provided, various means can be employed to adjust the height of the headrest 16 to the position of the sitter's head.

[0033] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the seat cushion 12 is an elastic body positioned between the sitter and the rigid frame 11 within the seating area 1a. By distributing the sitter's body pressure on the rigid frame 11, it suppresses the localized application of large pressure to the seated sitter. In this embodiment, the seat cushion 12 comprises a cloth-like seat cushion (not shown) that covers the inside of the seat portion 13, backrest portion 14, and seat side portion 15 of the rigid frame 11, and a block-shaped head cushion 121 positioned inside the headrest 16 of the rigid frame 11.

[0034] The fabric-like seat cover is a fabric that can be compressed and restored in the thickness direction, and is positioned so that its thickness direction coincides with the inward and outward direction of the seating area 1a. The fabric-like seat cover is made of, for example, mesh fabric. The fabric-like seat cover is positioned over almost the entire seating area 1a, excluding the headrest 16.

[0035] As shown in Figures 1 to 3, the head cushion 121 is a block-shaped component that can be compressed and restored in the thickness direction, and is positioned on the headrest 16 such that its thickness direction coincides with the inward and outward direction of the seating area 1a. The head cushion 121 is shaped to conform to the shape of the inner surface of the headrest 16, and is configured to cover the occupant's occipital and temporal regions from the outside. The head cushion 121 in this embodiment is made of a soft foamed resin, and is more rigid than the cloth cushion but less rigid than the rigid frame 11.

[0036] The belt section 2 comprises a plurality of belt bodies 21 that are strip-shaped and fixed to the rigid frame section 11, tongues 22 provided on the belt bodies 21, and a buckle 23 connected to the rigid frame section 11 and capable of locking the tongues 22. The belt section 2 can secure a seated person to the rigid frame by locking the tongues 22 provided on the belt bodies 21 to the buckle 23.

[0037] As shown in Figures 4 and 5, the deformation module 3 is a module provided on the seating portion 10 and configured to deform upon impact. Specifically, the deformation module 3 comprises a base portion 4 fixed to the seating portion 10, a connecting portion 5 with one end connected to the base portion 4 and extending in a direction that separates it in the thickness direction, and a plate-shaped receiving plate portion 6 connected to the other end of the connecting portion 5. In this embodiment, the base portion 4 and the connecting portion 5 are arranged as a pair, spaced apart in the lateral direction perpendicular to the thickness direction, and the receiving plate portion 6 is positioned between the pair of base portions 4 and connecting portions 5 in the lateral direction.

[0038] The base portion 4 is a plate-like body that extends in a direction intersecting the inward and outward directions of the seating area 1a, and is equipped with a fixing portion 41 for fixing to the seating portion 10. The fixing portion 41 has a fastening hole 4a through which a fastening member is inserted, and the base portion 4 can be fixed to the seating portion 10 with a fastener. Specifically, the base portion 4 is a plate-like body that extends linearly in the vertical direction perpendicular to the thickness direction and the transverse direction, and its length in the vertical direction is longer than its length in the transverse direction. In addition, the thickness of the base portion 4 is substantially constant except for the rib portion provided for reinforcement.

[0039] The connecting portion 5 is a plate-like body extending from the base portion 4 toward one side in the thickness direction. The connecting portion 5 comprises a first connecting portion 5A positioned at one end in the longitudinal direction relative to the base portion 4, and a second connecting portion 5B positioned spaced apart from the first connecting portion 5A toward the other end in the longitudinal direction. The first connecting portion 5A and the second connecting portion 5B each comprise a deformable connecting portion 51 connected to the receiving plate portion 6 and a base connecting portion 52 connected to the base portion 4. The deformable connecting portion 51 is one end in the thickness direction of the first connecting portion 5A and the second connecting portion 5B. The base connecting portion 52 is the other end in the thickness direction of the first connecting portion 5A and the second connecting portion 5B.

[0040] The base connecting portion 52 of the first connecting portion 5A extends linearly along the vertical direction from one end of the base 4 to a position closer to the other end than the central portion. The deformed connecting portion 51 of the first connecting portion 5A has a vertical length shorter than the vertical length of the base connecting portion 52 and extends linearly along the vertical direction. In this embodiment, one end of the first connecting portion 5A extends linearly along the thickness direction, and the other end extends linearly in a diagonal direction intersecting the thickness direction and the vertical direction. That is, in the first connecting portion 5A, the vertical positions of the vertical end of the deformed connecting portion 51 and the vertical end of the base connecting portion 52 are approximately the same, and the other end of the deformed connecting portion 51 is located closer to the vertical end than the other end of the base connecting portion 52.

[0041] The base connecting portion 52 of the second connecting portion 5B extends linearly along the vertical direction from the other end of the base portion 4 to a position further from the central portion than the other end. Furthermore, the base connecting portion 52 of the second connecting portion 5B is shorter in the vertical direction than the base connecting portion 52 of the first connecting portion 5A. In addition, the deformed connecting portion 51 of the second connecting portion 5B has a vertical length that is approximately the same as the vertical length of the base connecting portion 52, and extends linearly in the thickness direction and in diagonal directions intersecting the vertical direction. In the second connecting portion 5B, the vertical positions of one end and the other end of the deformed connecting portion 51 and the base connecting portion 52 are approximately the same.

[0042] The receiving plate portion 6 is a plate-like body that extends in a direction intersecting the thickness direction, and is deformable to bend toward the other side in the thickness direction, which is the direction toward the base portion 4, when subjected to an impact from one side in the thickness direction. Furthermore, the receiving plate portion 6 has sufficient rigidity to not deform under the load applied in a normal state, when a person is seated and not subjected to an impact. The rigidity of the receiving plate portion 6 is higher than that of the base portion 12, but lower than that of the rigid frame portion 11.

[0043] Furthermore, the connecting portion 5 is configured such that the base connecting portion 52 is connected to the inner end of the base 4 in the lateral direction, and the deformable connecting portion 51 is connected to the outer end of the receiving plate portion 6 in the lateral direction. Therefore, the connecting portion 5 connects the receiving plate portion 6 and the base 4 such that the entire receiving plate portion 6 is positioned laterally offset from the base 4.

[0044] The receiving plate portion 6 comprises a plate-shaped straight plate portion 61 that extends in a direction perpendicular to the thickness direction, and an inclined plate portion 62 connected to the other end of the straight plate portion 61 in the vertical direction, extending in a diagonal direction intersecting the thickness direction and the vertical direction. A bent portion 63 is formed at the connection portion 5 between the straight plate portion 61 and the inclined plate portion 62, which is bent so as to be convex on one side in the thickness direction. The inclined plate portion 62 is a plate-like body that is inclined from the other end of the straight plate portion 61 in the vertical direction toward the other end in the thickness direction, and the other end of the inclined plate portion 62 in the vertical direction is approximately the same position as the base portion 4 in the thickness direction. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the vertical length of the straight plate portion 61 of the receiving plate portion 6 is longer than the vertical length of the inclined plate portion 62, and the bent portion 63 is formed at a position that is off-center to the other end of the receiving plate portion 6 in the vertical direction. Furthermore, the receiving plate portion 6 has a vertical end of the inclined plate portion 62, which is the part located furthest to the other end in the thickness direction, located approximately at the same position as the base portion 4 in the thickness direction, and the part of the inclined plate portion 62 that is one end in the vertical direction from the other end in the vertical direction is located one end closer to the base portion 4 in the thickness direction. Therefore, the straight plate portion 61 and the bent portion 63 are all spaced apart from the base portion 4 in the thickness direction, on one end side. The receiving plate portion 6 also includes a frame-shaped frame portion 64 that forms the outer edge of the receiving plate portion 6, and a deformable body portion 65 located inside the frame portion 64. The frame portion 64 and the deformable body portion 65 are located across the straight plate portion 61 and the inclined plate portion 62.

[0045] The deformed connecting portion 51 of the connecting portion 5 is connected to one end and the other end of the receiving plate portion 6 in the vertical direction. The first connecting portion 5A is connected to one end of the receiving plate portion 6 in the vertical direction, specifically, to a position one end closer to the deformed main body portion 65 in the vertical direction. The first connecting portion 5A is also connected to one end of the straight plate portion 61 in the vertical direction. The second connecting portion 5B is connected to the other end of the receiving plate portion 6 in the vertical direction, specifically, to the other end of the inclined plate portion 62 in the vertical direction. Furthermore, the receiving plate portion 6 is not directly connected to any other member between the first connecting portion 5A and the second connecting portion 5B in the vertical direction. In other words, the receiving plate portion 6 is supported at one end and the other end in the vertical direction by the connecting portions 5 connected to its ends, while the portion between the first connecting portion 5A and the second connecting portion 5B in the vertical direction is not supported by any other member.

[0046] The frame portion 64 comprises a pair of lateral extensions 641 extending in the horizontal direction and a pair of vertical extensions 642 extending in the vertical direction, and as a whole, it is a frame shape that extends in both the vertical and horizontal directions. The pair of lateral extensions 641 are located at one end and the other end in the vertical direction of the receiving plate portion 6, and are plate-like bodies that extend continuously in the horizontal direction from one end to the other end of the receiving plate portion 6. The pair of vertical extensions 642 are located at one end and the other end in the horizontal direction of the receiving plate portion 6, and are plate-like bodies that extend continuously from one end to the other end of the receiving plate portion 6. The vertical extensions 642 are bent such that the position where the bent portion 63 is formed, which is a position in the middle of the extension direction, is convex to one side in the thickness direction. In addition, the pair of vertical extensions 642 are arranged to connect the lateral ends of the pair of lateral extensions 641 and the other ends of the pair of lateral extensions 641.

[0047] The deformable body portion 65 is a leaf spring that can be elastically deformed to bend to the other side in the thickness direction when subjected to an impact from one side in the thickness direction. Specifically, it is a plate-like body with multiple holes formed in the thickness direction. The deformable body portion 65 also includes multiple rod-shaped continuous extension portions 66 that extend continuously between the frame portions 64, and slit-forming regions 67 are formed between the multiple continuous extension portions 66. The continuous extension portions 66 are rod-like bodies with a substantially constant length in the vertical direction and extending linearly along the horizontal direction. Furthermore, each of the multiple continuous extension portions 66 has substantially the same configuration. In this embodiment, the deformable body portion 65 has multiple rod-shaped continuous extension portions 66 that extend continuously between a pair of vertical extension portions 642 of the frame portion 64, spaced apart in the vertical direction, and slit-forming regions 67 are formed between adjacent continuous extension portions 66 in the vertical direction. In other words, the deformable body portion 65 is configured such that the continuous extension portions 66 and slit-forming regions 67 alternate in the vertical direction.

[0048] The slit-forming region 67 has multiple slits, which are holes that penetrate in the thickness direction and extend between adjacent continuous extension portions 66 in the vertical direction. In addition, the slit-forming region 67 has multiple types of slits with different lateral lengths. Specifically, the slit-forming region 67 includes a first region 67A in which a continuous slit S1 extending continuously between the frame portions 64 is formed, and a second region 67B in which multiple short slits with a shorter lateral length than the continuous slit S1 are formed. In this embodiment, the first region 67A is located in two places spaced apart in the vertical direction, and the slit-forming region 67 excluding the first region 67A is the second region 67B.

[0049] The continuous slit S1 in this embodiment is a slit that extends continuously between a pair of longitudinally extended portions 642. The continuous slit S1 is a hole defined by a pair of longitudinally extended portions 642 and a continuous extended portion 66 adjacent to the first region 67A, and is a hole that extends continuously in the lateral direction and has a substantially constant width in the vertical direction.

[0050] In the second region 67B, rod connecting portions 68 are arranged that extend vertically and connect adjacent continuous extension portions 66 in the vertical direction via the second region 67B. In this embodiment, multiple rod connecting portions 68 are arranged in the second region 67B at approximately equal intervals in the horizontal direction, which is the extension direction of the continuous extension portions 66. In addition, multiple short slits are formed between the horizontal extension portions 641 in the second region 67B. Furthermore, the rod connecting portions 68 arranged in adjacent second regions 67B in the vertical direction via the continuous extension portions 66 are positioned at different locations in the horizontal direction. In this embodiment, the rod connecting portions 68 are arranged in a staggered pattern as a whole.

[0051] A short slit is a slit that extends laterally between a pair of longitudinal extensions 642. A short slit is a hole whose longitudinal ends are defined by a continuous extension 66 adjacent to the second region 67B, and whose lateral ends are defined by a rod connecting portion 68 or a longitudinal extension 642, and whose longitudinal width is approximately constant. Furthermore, the short slit includes multiple types of slits with different lateral lengths. Specifically, the short slit includes a first short slit S21 with a longer lateral length and a second short slit S22 with a shorter lateral length than the first short slit S21. In this embodiment, the first short slit S21 is a slit whose lateral length is longer than its longitudinal length, and the second short slit S22 is a slit whose lateral and longitudinal lengths are approximately equal. Also, in this embodiment, the second short slit S22 is located only at the lateral end of the second region 67B.

[0052] Thus, the deformable body portion 65 is formed in a mesh-like manner by the formation of multiple slits, and the outer edge of this mesh-like structure is supported by the frame portion 64. Therefore, when an impact is applied to the deformable body portion 65 from one side to the other in the thickness direction, the deformable body portion 65 can reliably absorb the impact.

[0053] As shown in Figures 2 and 3, the deformation module 3 is provided on the seating portion 10 such that its thickness direction coincides with the inward and outward direction of the seating portion 10, and one side in the vertical direction is positioned on the upper side. In this embodiment, the deformation module 3 is fixed to the headrest 16 of the rigid frame portion 11. Specifically, the deformation module 3 is fixed to the headrest 16 such that its base portion 4 is fixed to the occipital support portion 161 of the headrest 16, and its receiving plate portion 6 is positioned so as to be spaced inward from the occipital support portion 161. In addition, a head cushion portion 121, which serves as a cushion portion 12, is positioned on the inside of the seating area 1a of the deformation module 3 in the inward and outward direction. In other words, the deformation module 3 is positioned between the head cushion portion 121 and the headrest 16 in the inward and outward direction.

[0054] As shown in Figure 3, the deformation module 3 provided on the headrest 16, which is the seating portion 10, has its base portion 4 in contact with the headrest 16, and its receiving plate portion 6 is spaced inward relative to the headrest 16. A height adjustment portion 17 is located between the receiving plate portion 6 and the headrest 16. The height adjustment portion 17 has a lever located outside the upper end of the frame, and a cable connected to the lever is located between the deformation body portion 65 and the headrest 16. The cable is of a size that does not affect the deformation of the deformation body portion 65, which will be described later. In other words, no items that would affect the deformation of the deformation body portion 65 are placed between the deformation body portion 65 and the headrest 16, and in this embodiment, the deformation body portion 65 can be deformed in the inward and outward directions to the same position as the base portion 4.

[0055] The method of using the child seat C, which has the above configuration, will now be explained. When using the child seat C, first, the height of the headrest 16 and the backrest 14 are adjusted using the height adjustment unit 17 so that the position of the headrest 16 matches the position of the occupant's head. Next, the occupant is seated in the seat 10 and secured to the seat 10 with the belt unit 2. At this time, the headrest 16 and the deformation module 3 fixed to the headrest 16 are positioned behind the occupant's head.

[0056] Thus, when a person is seated, a force may be applied to their head in the forward and backward direction. When a force is applied to the seated person's head during normal acceleration and deceleration of a vehicle in which the child seat C is installed, the force is absorbed by the elastic deformation of the headrest 121. However, if a large impact is applied to the seated person due to sudden acceleration or deceleration or an accident, the force applied to the seated person's head due to the impact may not be fully absorbed by the elastic deformation of the headrest 121. In such cases, the force that cannot be absorbed by the elastic deformation of the headrest 121 is transmitted to the deformation module 3 via the headrest 121, and a force is applied to the deformation module 3 from the inside out.

[0057] As shown in Figure 6, when a force is applied to the deformation module 3 from the inside out, the receiving plate portion 6 deforms outward so as to move closer to the base portion 4, absorbing the force from the inside out. Of the receiving plate portion 6, the deformation main body portion 65 elastically deforms so as to bend inward to absorb the force. Specifically, the bending portion 63 elastically deforms from a state where it is bent forward to a convex position to a state where it is curved backward to absorb the impact. In this embodiment, since multiple slits are formed in the deformation main body portion 65 and the whole is formed in a mesh-like structure, the deformation main body portion 65 is more likely to deform in a way that enlarges the slit portions, thus reliably deforming and absorbing the force.

[0058] In the child seat C with the above configuration, the deformation module 3 deforms so that when it receives an impact in the inward or outward direction, the receiving plate portion 6 connected to the base portion 4 and the base portion 4 move closer together in the inward or outward direction. Thus, the impact in the inward or outward direction can be absorbed by the deformation of the deformation module 3.

[0059] Furthermore, since the deformable main body 65, which is made of leaf springs, can absorb shocks in the inward and outward directions by deforming, the deformation module 3 can absorb shocks in the inward and outward directions by the thickness required for the leaf springs to deform.

[0060] Furthermore, the deformation performance of the leaf spring in the deformable body 65 can be adjusted by changing the position, shape, and number of holes. Therefore, the shock absorption performance can be adjusted.

[0061] Furthermore, since the deformation module 3 comprises a mesh-like deformation body portion 65 and a frame portion 64 that supports the outer edge of the deformation body portion 65, the force caused by impact can be absorbed by the deformation body portion 65 deforming as a whole.

[0062] Next, a child seat C according to another embodiment of the present invention will be described. In the following other embodiments, the configuration of the deformation module 3 differs from that of the first embodiment.

[0063] As shown in Figure 7, the deformation module 3 of the child seat C according to the second embodiment of the present invention comprises a base portion 4, a connecting portion 5, and a receiving plate portion 6. The configuration of the base portion 4 and the connecting portion 5 is the same as in the first embodiment. The receiving plate portion 6 of this embodiment also comprises a straight plate portion 61 and an inclined plate portion 62, similar to the first embodiment, and the straight plate portion 61 and the inclined plate portion 62 are connected via a bent portion 63. On the other hand, it differs from the first embodiment in that the vertical length of the inclined plate portion 62 is longer than the vertical length of the straight plate portion 61, and the position of the bent portion 63 differs from the first embodiment in that it is located one end side of the vertical center of the receiving plate portion 6. Furthermore, the deformation body portion 65 of this embodiment comprises a plurality of continuous extension portions 66 that extend along the vertical direction and connect the lateral extension portions 641 of the frame portion 64. The plurality of continuous extension portions 66 are spaced apart in the lateral direction, and slit-forming regions 67 are formed between the continuous extension portions 66.

[0064] In the slit-forming region 67, only continuous slits S1 extending continuously in the vertical direction are formed, and no short slits are formed. In other words, the slit-forming region 67 includes only the first region 67A and does not include the second region 67B, and no rod connecting portion 68 is located in the slit-forming region 67.

[0065] Even with this configuration, the deformation module 3 can absorb impact by receiving an impact from the inside out, causing the receiving plate portion 6 to deform in a direction that moves relatively closer to the base portion 4. Furthermore, since the continuous extension portions 66 are not connected to each other as in this embodiment, the deformation body portion 65 deforms more easily when subjected to impact compared to the first embodiment, and can reliably absorb the impact.

[0066] Next, a third embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Figure 8. The deformation module 3 of the child seat C according to the third embodiment of the present invention comprises a base portion 4, a connecting portion 5, and a receiving plate portion 6. The receiving plate portion 6 of this embodiment also comprises a straight plate portion 61 and an inclined plate portion 62, similar to the first embodiment, and the straight plate portion 61 and the inclined plate portion 62 are connected via a bent portion 63. The vertical length of the straight plate portion 61 is longer than the vertical length of the inclined plate portion 62, and the position of the bent portion 63 is located on the other end side of the vertical center of the receiving plate portion 6. On the other hand, the configuration of the deformation body portion 65 of the receiving plate portion 6 of this embodiment differs from that of the first embodiment. Specifically, the deformation body portion 65 extends along the vertical direction and comprises a plurality of continuous extension portions 66 that connect the lateral extension portions 641 of the frame portion 64. The plurality of continuous extension portions 66 are spaced apart in the lateral direction, and slit-forming regions 67 are formed between the continuous extension portions 66.

[0067] In the slit-forming region 67, only short slits are formed that extend in the vertical direction and whose vertical length is shorter than the length of the continuous extension portion 66, and no continuous slits S1 are formed. In other words, the slit-forming region 67 includes only the second region 67B and does not include the first region 67A. In the second region 67B, rod connecting portions 68 are arranged to connect adjacent continuous extension portions 66 in the horizontal direction. In this embodiment, the rod connecting portions 68 of the multiple second regions 67B are arranged at the same position in the vertical direction, specifically, at a position on one end side of the bent portion 63 in the vertical direction, the multiple rod connecting portions 68 are arranged so as to be aligned in a straight line in the horizontal direction. Short slits are formed on the vertical end side and the other end side of the rod connecting portion 68.

[0068] Even with this configuration of the deformation module 3, when subjected to an impact from the inside to the outside, the receiving plate portion 6 deforms in a direction that moves relatively closer to the base portion 4, thereby absorbing the impact. Furthermore, compared to the second embodiment, since the impact on the receiving plate portion 6 is transmitted to the multiple continuous extension portions 66 by the rod connecting portion 68, the force can be distributed and received by the entire receiving plate portion 6.

[0069] Next, a fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Figure 9. The deformation module 3 of the child seat C according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention comprises a base portion 4, a connecting portion 5, and a receiving plate portion 6. The receiving plate portion 6 of this embodiment also comprises a straight plate portion 61 and an inclined plate portion 62, similar to the first embodiment, and the straight plate portion 61 and the inclined plate portion 62 are connected via a bent portion 63. On the other hand, the receiving plate portion 6 of this embodiment has transversely extended portions 641 at one end and the other end in the vertical direction, and the deformation body portion 65 is located between the transversely extended portions 641 in the vertical direction.

[0070] The deformable main body 65 is provided with arc-shaped continuous extensions 66 that extend continuously from one end to the other in the lateral direction, and arc-shaped slit-forming regions 67 are formed between the continuous extensions. Specifically, the deformable main body 65 has multiple continuous extensions arranged on concentric circles centered on the lateral central portion of the bent portion 63, spaced apart in the radial direction of the concentric circles, and slit-forming regions 67 are formed between radially adjacent continuous extensions 66. In addition, a circular hole that penetrates in the thickness direction is formed in the central portion of the concentric circles.

[0071] In this embodiment, the slit-forming region 67 includes only the second region 67B and does not include the first region 67A. Concentric rod connecting portions 68 extending in the radial direction are arranged in the slit-forming region 67. In this embodiment, the rod connecting portions 68 arranged in each slit-forming region 67 are arranged to be aligned radially via a continuous extension portion 66.

[0072] Even with this configuration of the deformation module 3, when subjected to an impact from the inside to the outside, the receiving plate portion 6 deforms in a direction that moves relatively closer to the base portion 4, thereby absorbing the impact. Furthermore, compared to the second embodiment, since the impact on the receiving plate portion 6 is transmitted to the multiple continuous extension portions 66 by the rod connecting portion 68, the force can be distributed and received by the entire receiving plate portion 6.

[0073] Next, a fifth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Figure 10. The deformation module 3 of the child seat C according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention comprises a base portion 4, a connecting portion 5, and a receiving plate portion 6. The connecting portion 5 of this embodiment differs from that of the first embodiment in that it extends continuously from one end to the other in the vertical direction of the base portion 4. In other words, the connecting portion 5 of this embodiment is continuously connected from one end to the other in the vertical direction of the receiving plate portion 6, and the receiving plate portion 6 is continuously supported by the connecting portion 5 from one end to the other in the vertical direction.

[0074] The receiving plate portion 6 of this embodiment, like the first embodiment, comprises a straight plate portion 61 and an inclined plate portion 62, with the straight plate portion 61 and the inclined plate portion 62 connected via a bent portion 63. However, it differs from the first embodiment in that the vertical length of the inclined plate portion 62 is longer than the vertical length of the straight plate portion 61, and the position of the bent portion 63 differs from the first embodiment in that it is located towards one end rather than the vertical center of the receiving plate portion 6. Furthermore, the receiving plate portion 6 of this embodiment is provided with lateral extension portions 641 at one end and the other end in the vertical direction, and a deformable main body portion 65 is located between the lateral extension portions 641 in the vertical direction. The deformable main body portion 65 comprises a plurality of continuous extension portions 66 that extend continuously from one end to the other end in the horizontal direction of the receiving plate portion 6, and connecting portions 5 are connected to both ends of the continuous extension portions 66 in the horizontal direction. The plurality of continuous extension portions 66 are spaced apart in the vertical direction, and slit-forming regions 67 are formed between the continuous extension portions 66.

[0075] In the slit-forming region 67, only continuous slits S1 extending continuously in the vertical direction are formed, and no short slits are formed. In other words, the slit-forming region 67 includes only the first region 67A and does not include the second region 67B, and no rod connecting portion 68 is located in the slit-forming region 67. The continuous slits S1 extend continuously in the horizontal direction from one end to the other end of the receiving plate portion 6.

[0076] Even with this configuration, the deformation module 3 can absorb impact by receiving an impact from the inside out, causing the receiving plate portion 6 to deform in a direction that brings it relatively closer to the base portion 4. Furthermore, since the receiving plate portion 6 is supported by the connecting portion 5 throughout its entire length from one end to the other, the force from the impact can be reliably received by the receiving plate portion 6.

[0077] Next, a sixth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Figure 11. The deformation module 3 of the child seat C according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention comprises a base portion 4, a connecting portion 5, and a receiving plate portion 6. The receiving plate portion 6 of this embodiment also comprises a straight plate portion 61 and an inclined plate portion 62, similar to the first embodiment, and the straight plate portion 61 and the inclined plate portion 62 are connected via a bent portion 63. The vertical length of the straight plate portion 61 is longer than the vertical length of the inclined plate portion 62, and the position of the bent portion 63 is located on the other end side of the vertical center of the receiving plate portion 6. On the other hand, the receiving plate portion 6 of this embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that it has transversely extended portions 641 at one end and the other end in the vertical direction, and the deformation main body portion 65 is located between the transversely extended portions 641 in the vertical direction. The deformable main body 65 is provided with a plurality of continuous extension portions 66 that extend continuously from one end to the other in the lateral direction of the receiving plate portion 6, and connecting portions 5 are connected to both ends of the continuous extension portions 66 in the lateral direction. The plurality of continuous extension portions 66 are spaced apart in the vertical direction, and slit-forming regions 67 are formed between the continuous extension portions 66.

[0078] In the slit-forming region 67, only short slits extending laterally and having a lateral length shorter than the length of the continuous extension portion 66 are formed, and no continuous slits S1 are formed. In other words, the slit-forming region 67 includes only the second region 67B and does not include the first region 67A. In the second region 67B, rod connecting portions 68 are arranged to connect adjacent continuous extension portions 66 in the lateral direction. The rod connecting portions 68 arranged in the second region 67B that are adjacent in the vertical direction via the continuous extension portion 66 are positioned at different locations in the lateral direction. In this embodiment, the rod connecting portions 68 are arranged in a staggered pattern as a whole.

[0079] Even with this configuration, the deformation module 3 can absorb impact by receiving an impact from the inside out, causing the receiving plate portion 6 to deform in a direction that brings it relatively closer to the base portion 4. Furthermore, since the impact on the receiving plate portion 6 is transmitted to the multiple continuous extension portions 66 by the rod connecting portion 68, the force can be distributed and received by the entire receiving plate portion 6.

[0080] Next, a seventh embodiment will be described with reference to Figure 12. The deformation module 3 of the child seat C according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention comprises a base portion 4 and a receiving plate portion 6 directly connected to the base portion 4. The base portion 4 is a plate-like body that is positioned such that the surface on the other end in the thickness direction faces the seat portion 10 and can be fixed to the seat portion 10.

[0081] The receiving plate portion 6 includes a spring portion 71 extending in the thickness direction and connected to the base portion 4 on one end in the thickness direction, a plate-shaped impact receiving portion 72 connected to one end of the spring portion 71 in the thickness direction, and a guide portion 73. The spring portion 71 is a coil spring that can be compressed and restored in the thickness direction, and multiple spring portions are arranged on the surface of the base portion 4 on one end in the thickness direction. The impact receiving portion 72 is a plate-shaped body that extends in a direction intersecting the thickness direction. Furthermore, the impact receiving portion 72 is a plate with sufficient rigidity so that the plate itself does not deform when subjected to an impact in the thickness direction. The guide portion 73 guides the deformable main body portion 65 so that it moves along the thickness direction. Specifically, the guide portion 73 includes a cylindrical member 74 provided on one of the base portion 4 and the impact receiving portion 72, and a columnar sliding member 75 provided on one of the base portion 4 and the impact receiving portion 72, which slides along the cylindrical member 74.

[0082] In this configuration of the deformation module 3, when an impact is applied to the impact receiving portion 72 from one end in the thickness direction to the other, the impact is transmitted to the spring portion 71, and the spring portion 71 is compressed, thereby absorbing the impact. Therefore, when an impact is received from the inside to the outside, the receiving plate portion 6 deforms in a direction that moves relatively closer to the base portion 4, thereby absorbing the impact.

[0083] As described above, the deformation module 3 can absorb shocks through the elastic deformation of a spring, such as a leaf spring as in the first to sixth embodiments, or a coil spring as in the seventh embodiment.

[0084] Although embodiments of the present invention have been described above with reference to one example, the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

[0085] For example, the deformation module 3 has been described as being provided on the headrest 16, but the configuration is not limited to this. For example, the deformation module 3 can also be provided on the backrest 14 or the seat base 13. In such cases, the deformation module 3 can absorb the impact on the torso of the sitter. Furthermore, the deformation module 3 can be provided on the side of the seat 15, or even if it is provided on the headrest 16, it can be provided on the side head support 162. In such configurations, for example, the impact applied in the lateral direction in the case of a side collision can be absorbed.

[0086] Furthermore, although the case in which the deformation module 3 is provided on the rigid frame portion 11 has been described, the configuration is not limited to this. For example, the deformation module 3 can also be provided on the base portion 12. When the deformation module 3 is provided on the base portion 12, for example, the base portion 12 can be configured in a bag shape and the deformation module 3 can be housed inside. Even with such a configuration, the deformation of the deformation module 3 can absorb impacts that cannot be fully absorbed by the elastic deformation of the base portion 12.

[0087] Furthermore, the seating portion 10 can also be equipped with an impact-absorbing portion that protrudes outward from the rigid frame portion 11, and the impact-absorbing portion can be equipped with a deformation module 3. The impact-absorbing portion is a columnar or weight-shaped projection that protrudes outward from the outer surface of the rigid frame portion 11, and is configured to deform or displace when it comes into contact with the vehicle seat or the vehicle body to absorb the impact at the time of contact. By providing a deformation module 3 to an impact-absorbing portion with such a configuration, the impact can be absorbed not only by the deformation or displacement of the impact-absorbing portion itself, but also by the deformation of the deformation module 3. Therefore, the impact transmitted to the seated person can be reduced.

[0088] Furthermore, although the deformation module 3 has been described in a case where one side in the thickness direction faces inward in the in-out direction of the seating area 1a, it is not limited to this configuration, and it can also be arranged so that one side in the thickness direction faces outward. Even with this configuration, the impact can be absorbed by the receiving plate portion 6 deforming from the outside to the inside so that it approaches the base portion 4.

[0089] Furthermore, although we have described the case where the deformation module 3 is separate from the seating portion 10, the configuration is not limited to this, and for example, the base portion 4 can also be configured as an integral part of the seating portion 10.

[0090] Furthermore, although we have described a case where nothing is placed between the receiving plate portion 6 and the seating portion 10 that would affect the deformation of the receiving plate portion 6, it is also possible to configure the structure so that other members are placed there, for example, an elastic member that elastically deforms in accordance with the deformation of the receiving plate portion 6 to absorb impact.

[0091] Furthermore, although we have described a case in which a bent portion 63 is formed in the receiving plate portion 6 and it is bent so as to be convex on one side in the thickness direction, the configuration is not limited to this, and for example, the entire receiving plate portion 6 can be curved so as to be convex on one side in the thickness direction.

[0092] Furthermore, although the case in which the receiving plate portion 6 absorbs impact through elastic deformation has been described, the configuration is not limited to this, and it is also possible to have a configuration that absorbs impact through elastic and plastic deformation, or a configuration that absorbs impact through plastic deformation alone.

[0093] Furthermore, although the case in which the receiving plate portion 6 is positioned between a pair of base portions 4 and connecting portions 5 in the lateral direction has been described, the configuration is not limited to this, and it is also possible to have a configuration in which the pair of base portions 4 and connecting portions 5 are spaced apart in the vertical direction, and the receiving plate portion 6 is positioned between the pair of base portions 4 and connecting portions 5 in the vertical direction. [Explanation of symbols]

[0094] 1...Seat body, 1a...Seating area, 10...Seating part, 11...Rigid frame part, 12...Seat base, 121...Headrest base, 161...Rear head support part, 162...Side head support part, 13...Seat seat, 14...Backrest part, 15...Seat side part, 16...Headrest, 17...Height adjustment part, 171...First adjustment part, 18...Fixed back part, 19...Movable back part, 2...Belt part, 21...Belt body, 22...Tongue, 23...Buckle, 3...Deformation module, 4...Base part, 4a...Fastening hole, 41...Fixing part, 5...Connecting part, 5A...First connecting part, 5B... Second connecting section, 51...Deformed connecting section, 52...Base connecting section, 6...Receiving plate section, 61...Straight plate section, 62...Inclined plate section, 63...Bent section, 64...Frame section, 641...Lateral extension section, 642...Longitudinal extension section, 65...Deformed main body section, 66...Continuous extension section, 67...Slit forming region, 67A...First region, 67B...Second region, 68...Rod connecting section, 71...Spring section, 72...Impact receiving section, 73...Guide section, 74...Cylindrical member, 75...Sliding member, C...Child seat, S1...Continuous slit, S21...First short slit, S22...Second short slit

Claims

1. A child seat installed in a vehicle that allows a person to get on and off and is equipped with a vehicle-side seat in which the person sits, It comprises a seating area in which a person sits inside and which faces the vehicle-side seat on the outside, and a deformation module, The deformation module comprises a base provided on the seating portion and a plate-shaped receiving plate connected to the base, The receiving plate portion is provided spaced apart from the base portion in the inward and outward direction of the seating portion. A child car seat wherein the deformation module is configured to deform in the inward and outward direction upon receiving an impact, such that the receiving plate portion moves relatively closer to the base portion in the inward and outward direction.

2. The receiving plate portion comprises a deformable main body portion composed of a leaf spring that extends along a surface that extends in a direction intersecting the inward and outward directions, The child seat according to claim 1, wherein the deformable main body is configured to deform in the inward and outward direction upon receiving an impact in the inward and outward direction, so as to move closer to the base in the inward and outward direction.

3. The child seat according to claim 2, wherein a plurality of holes penetrating in the inward and outward directions are formed in the deformed main body portion.

4. The child seat according to claim 2, wherein the base portion includes a fixing portion that is fixed to the seat portion.

5. The seating portion comprises a rigid frame portion that has rigidity and forms a seating area inside on which the person sits. The deformation module is provided on the rigid frame portion, as described in any one of claims 1 to 4.

6. The seating portion comprises a rigid frame portion that has rigidity and forms a seating area inside on which the sitter sits, and a cushion portion that has cushioning properties and is provided inside the rigid frame portion. The deformation module is provided on the base portion, and is the child seat according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

7. The seating portion comprises a rigid frame portion that has rigidity and forms a seating area inside on which the sitter sits, and an impact absorbing portion provided on the outside of the rigid frame portion. The deformation module is provided in the shock-absorbing section, as described in any one of claims 1 to 4.

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