Vehicle seats

Abstract

To provide vehicle seats that allow occupants to sit in a more relaxed posture. [Solution] The seat cushion 1 of the vehicle seat S has a rear cushion portion 1A that constitutes the rear part of the seat cushion and a front cushion portion 1B that constitutes the front part of the seat cushion. The vehicle seat S includes a cushion rotation device 30 that rotatably connects the front cushion portion 1B to the rear cushion portion 1A about a cushion rotation axis 31 (first rotation axis), a support member 40 that is attached to the front part of the front cushion portion 1B, protrudes forward of the front cushion portion, and supports the legs of the occupant, and a support rotation device 50 that rotatably connects the support member 40 to the front cushion portion 1B about a rotation axis 52 (second rotation axis).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a vehicle seat, and particularly to a vehicle seat provided with a seat cushion.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, there is known a vehicle seat including a seat cushion, a leg support member (support member) that is pivotally connected to the seat cushion and supports the legs of a seated person, and is provided at the front portion of the seat cushion, and an ottoman device (support rotation device) that pivotally connects the leg support member to the seat cushion (see, for example, Patent Document 1). In addition, there is known a vehicle seat provided with a cushion adjustment device that pivotally connects the front portion of the seat cushion to the rear portion of the seat cushion and adjusts the position of the front portion of the seat cushion (see, for example, Patent Document 2).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Patent Document 2

[0006] The aforementioned problems are solved by the vehicle seat of the present invention, which is a vehicle seat equipped with a seat cushion, wherein the seat cushion has a rear cushion portion that constitutes the rear part of the seat cushion and a front cushion portion that constitutes the front part of the seat cushion, and comprises a cushion rotation device that rotatably connects the front cushion portion to the rear cushion portion about a first rotation axis along the seat width direction, a support member attached to the front part of the front cushion portion and protruding forward from the front cushion portion to support the legs of the occupant, and a support rotation device that rotatably connects the support member to the front cushion portion about a second rotation axis along the seat width direction. The above configuration makes it possible to create a vehicle seat that allows occupants to sit in a more relaxed posture. More specifically, the vehicle seat is equipped with a cushion rotation device and a support rotation device, allowing the front part of the cushion to rotate relative to the rear part of the cushion, and the support member to rotate relative to the front part of the cushion. This allows the position of the seat cushion and support member to be adjusted to suit the occupant's physique and posture, enabling the occupant to sit in a relaxed position.

[0007] In this case, when the front part of the cushion rotates relative to the rear part of the cushion, it is preferable that the front portion of the front part of the cushion is positioned above the upper end of the rear part of the cushion, and when the support member rotates relative to the front part of the cushion, it is preferable that the front portion of the support member is positioned above the upper end of the rear part of the cushion. Furthermore, when the support member rotates relative to the front portion of the cushion, it is preferable that the front portion of the support member be positioned above the front end of the front portion of the cushion. With the above configuration, the front part of the cushion and the support member can be moved appropriately. As a result, the occupant can sit in a relaxed posture (for example, a reclining posture).

[0008] The vehicle seat according to claim 1, characterized in that when the front part of the cushion rotates relative to the rear part of the cushion, and the support member rotates relative to the front part of the cushion, a part of the support member is positioned rearward from the front end of the rear part of the cushion. With the above configuration, space can be secured in front of the vehicle's seats as needed.

[0009] In this case, it is preferable that the front part of the cushion be detachably attached to the rear part of the cushion. With the above configuration, the shape and size of the front part of the cushion can be changed to suit the sitter's physique, posture, or preferences.

[0010] At this time, when the support member rotates relative to the front portion of the cushion, it is desirable that the front portion of the cushion, the rear portion of the cushion, and the support member be aligned in a straight line when viewed from the side of the seat. With the above configuration, the occupants can sit in a relaxed posture (for example, with their legs extended).

[0011] In this case, the seat back is provided, and when the support member rotates relative to the front part of the cushion, the support member is positioned above the seat cushion, and the support member supports the luggage placed on the seat cushion by sandwiching it between the seat back. With the above configuration, luggage placed on the seat cushion can be properly supported, preventing it from rolling off.

[0012] In this case, when the front part of the cushion rotates relative to the rear part of the cushion, and the support member rotates relative to the front part of the cushion, it is preferable that the support member is positioned so as to overlap with the front part of the cushion when viewed from above the seat. The above configuration allows for more appropriate support of luggage placed on the seat cushion.

[0013] In this case, when the front part of the cushion rotates relative to the rear part of the cushion, the support member moves in accordance with the rotation of the front part of the cushion, and / or, when the support member rotates relative to the front part of the cushion, the front part of the cushion moves in accordance with the rotation of the support member. As described above, the front part of the cushion and the support members move in conjunction, allowing the position of the seat cushion and support members to be adjusted more appropriately to suit the occupant's physique and posture.

[0014] In this case, it is preferable to include a detection unit that detects the seating state of an occupant seated on the seat cushion or the state of luggage placed on the seat cushion, and a control device that controls the cushion rotating device and the support rotating device so as to adjust the positions of the front part of the cushion and the support member based on the detection result of the detection unit. With the above configuration, the occupant's physique and posture, as well as the placement of luggage, can be detected, and the position of the seat cushion and support members can be adjusted more appropriately according to the detection results.

[0015] In this case, the vehicle floor is provided with a support bracket that supports the seat cushion, and a height link that connects the first pivot shaft and the support bracket, wherein the support bracket is positioned directly above a floor support that supports the vehicle floor from below. As a result, the vehicle seat S can be attached to a portion of the vehicle floor having high support rigidity. As a result, the vehicle seat S can be assembled more firmly, and stable rotation of the front portion of the cushion becomes possible.

Effect of the Invention

[0016] According to the present invention, it is possible to realize a vehicle seat that allows an occupant to sit in a more relaxed posture. That is, the positions of the seat cushion and the support member can be adjusted according to the physique and posture of the occupant. Further, according to the present invention, the front portion of the cushion and the support member can be preferably moved. Further, according to the present invention, in a vehicle, a space can be secured as needed at a position in front of the vehicle seat. Further, according to the present invention, the shape and size of the front portion of the cushion can be changed according to the physique and posture of the seated person or the preference of the seated person. Further, according to the present invention, luggage placed on the seat cushion can be appropriately supported, and it is possible to prevent the luggage from rolling off. Further, according to the present invention, the seating state of the occupant and the placement state of the luggage can be detected, and the positions of the seat cushion and the support member can be adjusted more appropriately according to the detection results. Further, according to the present invention, the vehicle seat S can be assembled more firmly, and stable rotation of the front portion of the cushion becomes possible.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0017] [Figure 1] It is a perspective view of a vehicle seat according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] It is a side view of a vehicle seat, showing the "normal state". [Figure 3] It is a view showing the "first movement state" of the vehicle seat. [Figure 4] It is a view showing the "second movement state" of the vehicle seat. [Figure 5] It is a view showing the "third movement state" of the vehicle seat. [Figure 6] This diagram shows the "fourth movement state" of a vehicle seat. [Figure 7] This diagram shows the "first storage state" of a vehicle seat. [Figure 8] This diagram shows the "second storage state" of a vehicle seat. [Figure 9] This figure shows the "first moving state" of the vehicle seat according to the second embodiment. [Figure 10] This is a top view of the seat and floor of a vehicle according to the second embodiment, showing the XX cross-section in Figure 9. [Figure 11] This figure shows the "second moving state" of the vehicle seat according to the second embodiment. [Figure 12] This figure shows the "third moving state" of the vehicle seat according to the second embodiment. [Figure 13] This figure shows the "fourth moving state" of the vehicle seat in the second embodiment. [Figure 14] This figure shows the "fifth moving state" of the vehicle seat in the second embodiment. [Figure 15] This figure shows the "first storage state" of the vehicle seat according to the second embodiment. [Figure 16] This figure shows the "second storage state" of the vehicle seat according to the second embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0018] Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to Figures 1 to 16. This embodiment relates to a "vehicle seat" that allows occupants to sit in a more relaxed posture. In a vehicle, the side of the seat back (headrest) on which the occupant sits is the front side (front of the seat). A person sitting in such a vehicle seat will be referred to as an occupant or occupant below.

[0019] <First Embodiment> As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the vehicle seat S is a vehicle seat, for example, a rear seat (also called a rear passenger seat) located at the rear of the vehicle. The vehicle seat S allows the position of the seat cushion 1 (rear cushion section 1A, front cushion section 1B), seat back 2, and support member 40 to be adjusted according to the occupant's physique and posture, enabling the occupant to sit in a relaxed posture. Furthermore, the vehicle seat S can properly support luggage placed on the seat cushion 1 and prevent the luggage from rolling off. Specifically, the vehicle seat S is a seat that can be switched between the "normal state" shown in Figure 2, the "first moving state" shown in Figure 3, the "second moving state" shown in Figure 4, the "third moving state" shown in Figure 5, the "fourth moving state" shown in Figure 6, the "first stored state" shown in Figure 7, and the "second stored state" shown in Figure 8. The vehicle seat S may be switched by the occupant's manual action, or it may be switched by the control device 70 described later.

[0020] The vehicle seat S comprises a seat body Sa having a seat cushion 1, a seat back 2, and a headrest 3; a support bracket 5 connecting the seat body Sa to the vehicle floor; a height device 6 connecting the seat body to the support bracket 5 so as to be able to move up and down; and a reclining device 7 connecting the seat back 2 to the seat cushion 1 so as to be able to rotate. Furthermore, the vehicle seat S includes a cushion rotation device 30 that rotatably connects the cushion front portion 1B to the cushion rear portion 1A, a support member 40 attached to the front portion of the cushion front portion 1B to support the occupant's legs, and a support rotation device 50 that rotatably connects the support member 40 to the cushion front portion 1B. Furthermore, the vehicle seat S is equipped with a detection sensor 60 that detects the seating position of an occupant seated on the seat cushion 1, and a control device 70 that controls the reclining device 7, cushion rotation device 30, and support rotation device 50 based on the detection results of the detection sensor 60. Furthermore, the vehicle seat S may also be equipped with a rail device that supports the seat body Sa so that it can move back and forth relative to the vehicle floor.

[0021] As shown in Figure 1, the seat cushion 1 is a seating portion that supports the occupant from below, and comprises a cushion frame 10 that forms the skeleton, a pad material 1Aa(1Ba) placed on the cushion frame 10, and a surface material 1Ab(1Bb) that covers the cushion frame 10 and the pad material 1Aa(1Ba). The seat cushion 1 has a rear cushion portion 1A that constitutes the rear part of the seat cushion 1 and a front cushion portion 1B that constitutes the front part of the seat cushion 1. The rear part 1A of the cushion and the front part 1B of the cushion are connected via a cushion rotation device 30 (cushion rotation shaft 32), and the front part 1B of the cushion is rotatable relative to the rear part 1A of the cushion about the cushion rotation shaft 32 which is aligned in the seat width direction. Furthermore, the rear part 1A of the cushion and the front part 1B of the cushion each have independent and different pad materials 1Aa and 1Ba, and surface materials 1Ab and 1Bb.

[0022] The seat back 2 is a backrest that supports the occupant from behind, and comprises a back frame 20 that forms the skeleton, a pad material 2a, and a surface material 2b. The headrest 3 is a headrest that supports the occupant's head from behind, and comprises a head pillar 3a that forms the frame, a pad material 3b, and a surface material 3c.

[0023] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the support bracket 5 is a bracket for assembling the seat body Sa to the vehicle floor, and is positioned on the left and right sides of the seat body Sa. The support bracket 5 supports the seat cushion 1 (seat body) from below. The support bracket 5 includes a front support bracket 5a with an L-shaped cross-section, a rear support bracket 5b with an L-shaped cross-section, and a bracket connecting portion 5c that connects the front support bracket 5a and the rear support bracket 5b. The front support bracket 5a connects the vehicle floor and the height adjustment device 6 in the vertical direction, and the rear support bracket 5b connects the vehicle floor and the reclining device 7 in the vertical direction.

[0024] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the height adjustment device 6 is mounted between the support bracket 5 and the seat cushion 1 and includes left and right height links 6a positioned in front of the seat, a locking member 6b that locks the seat cushion 1 so that it cannot be raised or lowered, and a height adjustment lever that releases the locked state of the locking member 6b. Specifically, the height link 6a connects the front support bracket 5a and the cushion rotation device 30 (bracket 31, cushion rotation shaft 32), and is rotatable relative to each of them. The height adjustment device 6 can adjust the height of the seat cushion 1 by operating the height link 6a.

[0025] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the reclining device 7 includes a reclining body 7a that is driven when the seat back 2 is rotated, a back rotation axis 7b, a spiral spring 7c that biases the seat back 2 to rotate forward around the back rotation axis 7b, and an operating lever 7d that is operated to release the locked state of the seat back 2.

[0026] The reclining unit 7a has a locking mechanism that allows the seat back 2 to be switched between a "locked state" in which it is fixed to the seat cushion 1 and an "unlocked state" in which it can rotate relative to the seat cushion 1. The back pivot shaft 7b is pivotally supported on both the seat cushion 1 side and the seat back 2 side in the seat width direction. The spiral spring 7c has one end locked to the seat cushion 1 side and the other end locked to the seat back 2 side. The operating lever 7d is a lever for releasing the locking mechanism of the reclining device 7, and is attached to the shoulder area of ​​the seat back 2 (back frame 20) via a lever mounting bracket.

[0027] The cushion frame 10 is a frame-like structure, as shown in Figure 2. The cushion frame 10 comprises left and right side frames 11 positioned laterally in the seat width direction, a plate-shaped first connecting frame 12 connecting the front portions of each side frame 11, a pipe-shaped second connecting frame 13 connecting the rear portions of each side frame 11, and a plurality of pressure-receiving springs that are attached to the first connecting frame 12 and the second connecting frame 13 and extend in the front-rear direction. Furthermore, the cushion frame 10 includes a front frame 14 which is assembled to the front portion of each side frame 11 via a cushion rotation device 30. The side frame 11, the first connecting frame 12, and the second connecting frame 13 constitute the "frame of the rear part 1A of the cushion." The front frame 14 constitutes the "frame of the front part 1B of the cushion."

[0028] A cushion pivoting device 30 (bracket 31) is assembled to the side of the front end portion of the side frame 11, and a cushion pivoting shaft 32 and a height link 6a are further assembled to the side of the bracket 31. More precisely, the cushion pivoting shaft 32 is positioned slightly forward of the height link 6a. A front frame 14 is attached to the front end of the cushion pivot shaft 32. The front frame 14 rotates around the cushion pivot shaft 32 as its pivot point relative to the side frame 11 (bracket 31). A connecting bracket 25 is attached to the side of the rear portion of the side frame 11 via a second connecting frame 13.

[0029] As shown in Figure 2, the back frame 20 is a frame-shaped structure comprising: back side frames 21 arranged on the left and right sides; an upper frame 22 connecting the upper ends of each back side frame 21; a lower frame 23 connecting the lower ends of each back side frame 21; a plurality of wire members hooked onto each back side frame 21 and extending in the left-right direction; and a pressure receiving plate supported by the plurality of wire members. A reclining device 7 is attached to the lower end of the backside frame 21 via a connecting bracket 25.

[0030] The connecting bracket 25 has the function of connecting the side frame 11 and the back side frame 21, and the function of connecting the back side frame 21 and the support bracket 5. The connecting bracket 25 connects the backside frame 21 and the support bracket 5 via the reclining device 7. With the above configuration, the seat back 2 is rotatable about the back pivot axis 7b relative to the support bracket 5 and is locked in a predetermined rotation position. Furthermore, the seat cushion 1 moves in conjunction with the rotational movement of the seat back 2, and its movement is restricted when the seat back 2 is locked.

[0031] As shown in Figures 1 to 8, the cushion rotation device 30 is a device that rotatably connects the cushion front portion 1B to the cushion rear portion 1A and locks the cushion front portion 1B. The cushion rotation device 30 is also called a "cushion adjustment device" and is attached to the front part of the seat cushion 1.

[0032] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the cushion rotation device 30 includes left and right brackets 31 attached to the front ends of the left and right side frames 11, a cushion rotation shaft 32 connecting the left and right brackets 31, and a locking member 33 that locks the rotational movement of the front part 1B of the cushion. The bracket 31 is fixed to the front end of the side frame 11 and is provided to protrude forward from the front end. The height link 6a and the cushion pivot shaft 32 are pivotally supported on the side of the bracket 31. The cushion pivot axis 32 corresponds to the "first pivot axis" and is the axis that serves as the pivot center of the cushion front portion 1B, and is rotatably supported with respect to the bracket 31. The locking member 33 is provided on the back surface of the bracket 31 and is positioned adjacent to the cushion pivot shaft 32. The locking member 33 is connected to the operating lever 7d located on the shoulder of the seat back 2 via a cable. The locking member 33 switches the locked state of the cushion pivot shaft 32 to the unlocked state when the cable is pulled by operating the operating lever 7d.

[0033] The cushion rotation device 30 is operated by manual operation by the seated person and also by control by the control device 70. The cushion rotation device 30 and the support rotation device 50 may be operated solely by manual operation, or they may be operated solely by control of the control device 70.

[0034] As shown in Figures 1 to 8, the support member 40 is attached to the front portion of the cushion front portion 1B, protrudes forward from the cushion front portion 1B, and is a member that supports the legs of the seated person. The support member 40, also called the "leg support member," is rotatably attached to the central part of the front frame 14 in the seat width direction via a support rotation device 50 (rotation shaft 52). The support member 40 has a pad material 41 and a surface material 42. The support member 40 has the function of supporting the legs of the seated person and the function of supporting luggage placed on the seat cushion 1.

[0035] As shown in Figures 1 to 8, the support rotation device 50 is a device that rotatably connects the support member 40 to the cushion front portion 1B around a pivot axis 52. The support rotation device 50 is also called a "leg support rotation device" or "ottoman device," and is attached to the front end of the seat cushion 1.

[0036] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the support rotation device 50 includes left and right brackets 51 attached to the front end of the front frame 14, a pivot shaft 52 connecting the left and right brackets 51, and a locking member 53 that locks the rotational movement of the support member 40.

[0037] The pivot shaft 52 corresponds to the "second pivot shaft" and is the axis that serves as the pivot center of the support member 40, and is rotatably supported with respect to the front frame 14. The locking member 53 is provided on the back surface of the bracket 31 and is positioned adjacent to the pivot shaft 52. The locking member 53 is connected to the operating lever 7d located on the shoulder of the seat back 2 via a cable. The locking member 53 switches the pivot shaft 52 from the "locked state" to the "unlocked state" when the cable is pulled by the operating lever 7d. The support rotation device 50 is operated by manual operation by the seated person and also by control by the control device 70.

[0038] As shown in Figure 1, the detection sensor 60 is a sheet-shaped detection unit that detects the seating pressure of an occupant seated on the seat cushion 1, and is provided inside the left and right sides of the seat cushion 1. Specifically, the detection sensor 60 is a planar pressure sensor that detects the seating pressure of an occupant (seater) and outputs a detection signal to the control device 70. "Seating pressure" is a value that changes periodically in response to the physiological activity (breathing) of a person when they are seated, and is detected by the detection sensor 60. The detection sensor 60 may be a sensor other than a pressure sensor.

[0039] The detection sensor 60 is located inside the seat cushion 1, between the pad material 1Aa and the surface material 1Bb. The detection sensor 60 can detect the seated person's physique and posture by detecting the seating pressure (changes in seating pressure). In other words, it can detect the seated person's "seated state". Furthermore, the detection sensor 60 can also detect the "placement status" of luggage placed on the seat cushion 1. As a result, the detection sensor 60 detects changes in the seating pressure of the occupant sitting on the seat cushion 1 and transmits the detected seating pressure results to the control device 70. Based on the detection results (changes in seating pressure) transmitted by the detection sensor 60, the control device 70 detects the occupant's physique and posture.

[0040] As shown in Figure 1, the control device 70 is a device that comprehensively controls the electrical operation of the vehicle seat S, and is, for example, an electronic control unit (ECU). The control device 70 is assembled to the back surface of the first connecting frame 12 of the seat cushion 1, but is not particularly limited. The control device 70 may be provided on other parts of the vehicle seat S, or on the vehicle V.

[0041] The control device 70 is connected to the rail device 4, height device 6, reclining device 7, cushion rotation device 30, support rotation device 50, and detection sensor 60 via an in-vehicle network. Specifically, the control device 70 is a computer equipped with a CPU (processor) as a data calculation and control processing device, ROM and RAM as storage devices, an HDD, and a communication interface for sending and receiving information data via an in-vehicle network.

[0042] The control device 70 has a memory unit that stores various programs and data, and controls the operation of the cushion rotation device 30 and the support rotation device 50. Specifically, the control device 70 acquires the detection result (change in seating state) of the seated person detected by the detection sensor 60, determines the seating state such as the seated person's physique and posture based on the detection result, and performs a seat switching operation according to the seating state. In particular, it controls the cushion rotation device 30 and the support rotation device 50 to adjust the positions of the front part of the cushion 1B and the support member 40. Furthermore, the control device 70 acquires the detection result (placement status) of the luggage detected by the detection sensor 60, determines the placement status such as the size and position of the luggage based on the detection result, and performs a sheet switching operation according to the placement status. Furthermore, the control device 70 may also control the operation of "movable devices" such as the rail device 4, height device 6, and reclining device 7.

[0043] <<Switching operation for vehicle seats>> Next, the switching operation of the vehicle seat S will be explained based on Figures 2 to 8. This switching operation may be performed by a crew member through "manual operation" or by an "automatic operation" by the control device 70. The operation of the reclining device 7, cushion rotation device 30, and support rotation device 50 will be described below.

[0044] Figure 2 is a side view of the vehicle seat S, showing the "normal state". In the "normal state" shown in Figure 2, the seat cushion 1 and seat back 2 are in a "seated state (normal state)" that allows an occupant to be seated, and are locked by the reclining device 7. Furthermore, the front part 1B of the cushion is similarly in a "seated position" and is locked by the cushion rotation device 30. The support member 40 is in a "leg support position (normal position)" capable of supporting the legs of the occupant (seater) and is locked by the support rotation device 50. This allows the occupant to sit in the vehicle seat S in a normal seating position.

[0045] Figure 3 shows the "first movement state" of the vehicle seat S. The first movement state is also referred to as the "first relaxation state." In the "first movement state" shown in Figure 3, the seat back 2 rotates backward relative to the vehicle floor and is locked by the reclining device 7. The rear part 1A of the cushion moves in accordance with the rotation of the seat back 2 and is locked in a slightly flat position. The front part 1B of the cushion rotates upward relative to the rear part 1A of the cushion and is locked by the cushion rotation device 30 in an inclined position relative to the rear part 1A of the cushion. The support member 40 also rotates upward relative to the front part 1B of the cushion and is locked by the support rotation device 50 in an inclined position relative to the front part 1B of the cushion. When the vehicle seat S switches to the "first movement state," the occupant can sit in a relaxed posture.

[0046] Figure 4 shows the "second movement state" of the vehicle seat S. The second movement state is also referred to as the "second relaxation state." In the "second movement state" shown in Figure 4, the seat back 2 rotates backward relative to the vehicle floor and is locked by the reclining device 7. The rear part 1A of the cushion moves in accordance with the rotation of the seat back 2 and is locked in a flat position. The front part 1B of the cushion is positioned to align with the rear part 1A of the cushion and is locked by the cushion rotation device 30. The support member 40 is positioned to align with the front part 1B of the cushion and is locked by the support rotation device 50. In other words, the rear part 1A of the cushion, the front part 1B of the cushion, and the support member 40 are arranged in a line, forming a continuous seating surface. When the vehicle seat S switches to the "second movement state," the occupant can sit in a relaxed posture.

[0047] Figure 5 shows the "third movement state" of the vehicle seat S. The third movement state is also called the "luggage support state". In the "third movement state" shown in Figure 5, the seat cushion 1 and seat back 2 are locked in a "loadable state (normal state)" where luggage L can be placed. The front part 1B of the cushion rotates upward relative to the rear part 1A of the cushion and is locked in a position perpendicular to the rear part 1A of the cushion. The support member 40 rotates upward and backward relative to the front part 1B of the cushion and is locked in a position inclined backward relative to the front part 1B of the cushion. When the vehicle seat S switches to the "third movement state," it can properly support the luggage L.

[0048] Figure 6 shows the "fourth moving state" of the vehicle seat S. The fourth moving state is also called the "luggage support state". In the "fourth moving state" shown in Figure 6, the seat cushion 1 and seat back 2 are locked in a "loadable state (normal state)" where luggage L can be placed. The front part 1B of the cushion rotates upward relative to the rear part 1A of the cushion and is locked in a position where it intersects with the rear part 1A of the cushion. The support member 40 also rotates upward relative to the front part 1B of the cushion and is locked in a position where it is aligned with the front part 1B of the cushion. When the vehicle seat S switches to the "fourth movement state," it can properly support the luggage L.

[0049] Figure 7 shows the "first storage state" of the vehicle seat S. In the "first storage state" shown in Figure 7, the seat cushion 1 and seat back 2 are locked in the "seated state (normal state)" which allows an occupant to be seated. The front part 1B of the cushion rotates downward relative to the rear part 1A of the cushion and is locked in an inclined position relative to the rear part 1A of the cushion. The support member 40 rotates slightly downward relative to the front part 1B of the cushion and is locked in a position where it is stored below the seat cushion 1. When the vehicle seat S switches to the "first storage state," the vehicle seat S can be made more compact. Additionally, space can be created in front of the vehicle seat S. This makes it easier for occupants to get in and out of the vehicle V.

[0050] Figure 8 shows the "second storage state" of the vehicle seat S. In the "second storage state" shown in Figure 8, the seat cushion 1 and seat back 2 are locked in the "seated state (normal state)" which allows an occupant to be seated. The front part 1B of the cushion rotates downward relative to the rear part 1A of the cushion and is locked in a position perpendicular to the rear part 1A of the cushion. The support member 40 rotates backward relative to the front part 1B of the cushion and is stored and locked below the seat cushion 1. By switching the vehicle seat S to the "second storage state," the vehicle seat S can be made more compact. Additionally, space can be created in front of the vehicle seat S.

[0051] In the above configuration, as shown in Figures 3, 5, and 6, the front part 1B of the cushion rotates relative to the rear part 1A of the cushion, and the front portion of the front part 1B is positioned above the upper end of the rear part 1A of the cushion. In addition, the support member 40 rotates relative to the front part 1B of the cushion, and the front portion of the support member 40 is positioned above the upper end of the rear part 1A of the cushion. Furthermore, the front portion of the support member 40 is positioned above the front end portion of the cushion front portion 1B. This allows the occupants to sit in a relaxed position (for example, lying down). It also allows for proper support of luggage L.

[0052] In the above configuration, as shown in Figures 5 to 8, the front cushion portion 1B and the support member 40 rotate, so that at least a part of the support member 40 is positioned behind the front end of the rear cushion portion 1A. This allows for space to be secured in front of the vehicle's seat S within the vehicle.

[0053] In the above configuration, as shown in Figure 4, the cushion front portion 1B and the support member 40 rotate so that the cushion rear portion 1A, the cushion front portion 1B, and the support member 40 are arranged in a straight line when viewed from the side of the seat. This allows the occupants to sit in a relaxed posture (for example, with their legs extended).

[0054] In the above configuration, as shown in Figures 5 and 6, the support member 40 is positioned above the seat cushion 1 and supports the luggage L placed on the seat cushion 1 by sandwiching it between the support member 40 and the seat back 2. This allows the luggage L placed on the seat cushion 1 to be properly supported and prevents the luggage L from rolling off.

[0055] In the above configuration, as shown in Figures 5 to 8, the cushion front portion 1B and the support member 40 rotate, so that the support member 40 is positioned to overlap with the cushion front portion 1B when viewed from above the seat. This allows for better support of luggage placed on the seat cushion 1. Alternatively, it allows for proper storage of the front part 1B of the cushion and the support member 40.

[0056] In the above configuration, when the front part 1B of the cushion rotates relative to the rear part 1A of the cushion, it is preferable that the support member 40 moves in accordance with the rotational movement of the front part 1B of the cushion. Furthermore, when the support member 40 rotates relative to the front part 1B of the cushion, it is preferable that the front part 1B of the cushion moves in accordance with the rotational movement of the support member 40. Such "corresponding actions (linked actions)" can be achieved in manual operation by releasing the lock state of the reclining device 7, cushion rotation device 30, and support rotation device 50 when the operating lever 7d is operated by the occupant. Alternatively, it can be achieved by the simultaneous control of these movable devices by the control device 70. This allows for more appropriate adjustment of the positions of the seat cushion 1 and the support member 40.

[0057] As a result of the above, it is possible to create vehicle seats that allow occupants to sit in a more relaxed posture. In addition, it is possible to create vehicle seats that can more properly hold luggage placed on the seat cushion.

[0058] <Second Embodiment> Next, the vehicle seat S2 of the second embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 9 to 16. Note that explanations that overlap with the above-mentioned vehicle seat S will be omitted.

[0059] As shown in Figure 9, the vehicle seat S2 is installed inside the vehicle V (vehicle body V1) and is mounted on the upper surface of the vehicle floor V2. The vehicle seat S2 comprises a seat cushion 1, a seat back 2, a headrest 3, a rail device 4, a support bracket 5, a height device 6, a reclining device 7, a cushion rotation device 30, a support member 40, a support rotation device 50, a detection sensor 60, and a control device 70.

[0060] In the vehicle seat S2, as shown in Figure 9, the front part 1B of the cushion is detachable from the rear part 1A of the cushion. In other words, the front cushion portion 1B and support member 40 can be replaced with other front cushion portions 101B and support members 140, respectively, which have different sizes and shapes. For example, the front part 1B of the cushion can be detachably attached to the cushion rotation device 30 (bracket 31, cushion rotation shaft 32). Also, the support member 40 can be detachably attached to the support rotation device 50. This allows the shape and size of the front part of the cushion 1B and the support member 40 to be changed to suit the sitter's physique, posture, or preferences.

[0061] As shown in Figures 9 and 10, the vehicle seat S2 is installed on the vehicle floor V2, directly above the floor support V3 and the battery V4. Specifically, the floor support V3 and battery V4 are attached to the upper surface of the bottom wall portion of the vehicle body V1. The floor support V3 is a support that supports the vehicle floor V2 and is provided to surround the battery V4. The floor support V3 is also referred to as the "floor support wall" or the "battery housing wall". The battery V4 is positioned vertically between the bottom wall portion of the vehicle body V1 and the vehicle floor V2. As shown in Figure 10, the support bracket 5 of the vehicle seat S is attached to the portion of the vehicle floor V2 that is supported by the floor support V3. Specifically, the left and right front support brackets 5a and the left and right rear support brackets 5b are positioned directly above the floor support V3. This allows the vehicle seat S to be attached to the part of the vehicle floor V2 that has high support rigidity. As a result, the vehicle seat S can be assembled more securely.

[0062] As shown in Figure 9, the rail device 4 is a device that supports the seat body Sa so that it can move back and forth relative to the vehicle floor V2. The rail device 4 is positioned vertically between the seat cushion 1 and the vehicle floor V2. The rail device 4 is fixed to the vehicle floor V2 and includes left and right lower rails 4a extending in the front and rear directions, left and right upper rails 4b supported so as to be slidable along the lower rails 4a, a locking member 4c that locks the upper rails 4b so as not to slide relative to the lower rails 4a, and a rail operating lever that releases the locked state of the locking member 4c. The seat cushion 1 (cushion frame 10) is attached to the upper surface of the left and right upper rails 4b via support brackets 5 and height adjustment devices 6.

[0063] <<Switching operation for vehicle seats>> Next, the switching operation of the vehicle seat S2 will be explained based on Figures 9 to 16. This switching operation may be performed by a crew member through "manual operation" or by an "automatic operation" by the control device 70.

[0064] Figure 9 shows the "first movement state" of the vehicle seat S2. The first movement state is also referred to as the "first relaxation state." In the "first moving state" shown in Figure 9, the seat cushion 101 and seat back 2 are in a "seated state (normal state)" that allows an occupant to be seated, and are locked by the reclining device 7. The front part 101B of the cushion rotates upward relative to the rear part 1A of the cushion and is locked by the cushion rotation device 30 in an inclined position relative to the rear part 1A of the cushion. The support member 140 rotates slightly upward relative to the front part 101B of the cushion and is locked by the support rotation device 50 in a position intersecting the front part 101B of the cushion. When the vehicle seat S2 switches to the "first movement state," the occupant can sit in a relaxed posture.

[0065] Figure 11 shows the "second movement state" of the vehicle seat S2. The second movement state is also referred to as the "second relaxation state." In the "second movement state" shown in Figure 11, the seat back 2 is locked in a position rotated rearward relative to the vehicle floor V2. The rear part 1A of the cushion moves in accordance with the rotational movement of the seat back 2 and is locked in a slightly flat position. The front part 101B of the cushion rotates slightly upward relative to the rear part 1A of the cushion and is locked in an inclined position relative to the rear part 1A of the cushion. The support member 140 rotates upward relative to the front part 101B of the cushion and is locked in an inclined position relative to the front part 101B of the cushion. When the vehicle seat S2 switches to the "second mobility state," the occupant can sit in a relaxed posture.

[0066] Figure 12 shows the "third movement state" of the vehicle seat S2. The third movement state is also referred to as the "third relaxation state." In the "third movement state" shown in Figure 12, the seat back 2 rotates backward relative to the vehicle floor V2 and is locked by the reclining device 7. The rear part 1A of the cushion moves in accordance with the rotation of the seat back 2 and is locked in a flat position. The front part 101B of the cushion is positioned and locked to align with the rear part 1A of the cushion. The support member 140 is positioned and locked to align with the front part 101B of the cushion. In other words, the rear part 1A of the cushion, the front part 101B of the cushion, and the support member 140 are arranged in a line, forming a continuous seating surface. When the vehicle seat S2 switches to the "third movement state," the occupant can sit in a relaxed posture.

[0067] Figure 13 shows the "fourth moving state" of the vehicle seat S2. The fourth moving state is also called the "cargo support state". In the "fourth moving state" shown in Figure 13, the seat cushion 101 and seat back 2 are locked in a "loadable state (normal state)" where luggage L can be placed. The front part 101B of the cushion rotates upward relative to the rear part 1A of the cushion and is locked in a position perpendicular to the rear part 1A of the cushion. The support member 140 rotates upward and backward relative to the front part 1B of the cushion and is locked in a position perpendicular to the front part 101B of the cushion. When the vehicle seat S2 switches to the "fourth movement state," it can properly support the luggage L.

[0068] Figure 14 shows the "fifth movement state" of the vehicle seat S2. The fifth movement state is also called the "luggage support state". In the "fifth movement state" shown in Figure 14, the seat cushion 101 and seat back 2 are locked in a "loadable state (normal state)" where luggage L can be placed. The front part 101B of the cushion rotates upward relative to the rear part 1A of the cushion and is locked in an inclined position relative to the rear part 1A of the cushion. The support member 140 is positioned and locked in line with the front part 101B of the cushion. When the vehicle seat S2 switches to the "fifth movement state," it can properly support the luggage L.

[0069] Figure 15 shows the "first storage state" of the vehicle seat S2. In the "first storage state" shown in Figure 15, the seat cushion 101 and seat back 2 are locked in the "seated state (normal state)" where an occupant can sit. The front part 101B of the cushion rotates downward relative to the rear part 1A of the cushion and is locked in an inclined position relative to the rear part 1A of the cushion. The support member 140 rotates slightly downward relative to the front part 101B of the cushion and is locked in a position where it is stored below the seat cushion 101. The support member 140 is housed in a floor storage section V5 formed in the vehicle floor V2. When the vehicle seat S2 switches to the "first storage state," the vehicle seat S2 can be made more compact. In addition, space can be secured in front of the vehicle seat S2.

[0070] Figure 16 shows the "second storage state" of the vehicle seat S2. In the "second storage state" shown in Figure 16, the seat cushion 101 and seat back 2 are locked in the "seated state (normal state)" where an occupant can sit. The front part 101B of the cushion rotates downward relative to the rear part 1A of the cushion and is locked in a position perpendicular to the rear part 1A of the cushion. The support member 140 rotates backward relative to the front part 101B of the cushion and is stored and locked in a lower position (floor storage section V5) of the seat cushion 1. By switching the vehicle seat S2 to the "second storage state," the vehicle seat S2 can be made more compact. Additionally, space can be created in front of the vehicle seat S2.

[0071] <Manufacturing method for vehicle seats> Next, the manufacturing method for the vehicle seat S will be explained based on Figures 1 to 8. Regarding the manufacturing method of the vehicle seat S, explanations of manufacturing processes other than those listed below will be omitted.

[0072] First, prepare the rear cushion portion 1A and the front cushion portion 1B that make up the seat cushion 1. Then, connect the cushion rotation device 30 to the rear cushion portion 1A so that the front cushion portion 1B can rotate relative to it. Next, a support member 40 to support the legs of the seated person is prepared and placed on the front part of the cushion front section 1B. Then, a support rotation device 50 is assembled so that the support member 40 can rotate relative to the cushion front section 1B.

[0073] The above manufacturing method makes it possible to produce vehicle seats that allow occupants to sit in a more relaxed posture. Furthermore, when luggage is placed on the seat cushion, it becomes possible to manufacture vehicle seats that can hold this luggage more securely.

[0074] <Other> In the above embodiment, as shown in Figure 1, the vehicle seat S is equipped with a height adjustment device 6 and a reclining device 7, but it is not particularly limited, and the configuration may be made without the height adjustment device 6 and the reclining device 7. Alternatively, the vehicle seat S may be configured such that the cushion rotating device 30 is not required, or the support rotating device 50 is not required, among the reclining device 7, cushion rotating device 30, and support rotating device 50.

[0075] In the above embodiment, as shown in Figure 1, the vehicle seat S is equipped with a detection sensor 60 and a control device 70, but it is not particularly limited, and the configuration may be made without the detection sensor 60 and the control device 70. In that case, the vehicle seat S can be switched between seat states by manually operating the cushion rotation device 30 and the support rotation device 50 by the occupant. Alternatively, the vehicle V may be configured to include an "imaging device (imaging camera)" for imaging the seated person and a "control device." In that case, the control device should determine the seated person's physique, posture, and other seating conditions based on the "image of the seated person (imaging result)" captured by the imaging device, and perform a seat switching operation according to the seating condition. Furthermore, the control device should determine the loading status of the luggage based on the "image of the luggage" captured by the imaging device, and perform a sheet switching operation according to the loading status.

[0076] In the above embodiment, a vehicle seat (automobile seat) was described as a specific example, but it is not particularly limited and can be used as a seat for vehicles such as trains and buses, as well as for vehicles such as airplanes and ships.

[0077] The above embodiments mainly described a vehicle seat according to the present invention. However, the embodiments described above are merely examples to facilitate understanding of the present invention and do not limit it. The present invention can be modified and improved without departing from its spirit, and of course, equivalents thereof are included. [Explanation of symbols]

[0078] V Vehicles V1 Vehicle Body V2 Vehicle Floor V3 Floor Support V4 Battery V5 Floor Storage Unit S, S2 Vehicle seats (Vehicle seats) Sa Seat Body 1. 101 Seat Cushion 1A Rear part of the cushion 1Aa, 1Ba pad material 1Ab, 1Bb Skin material 1B, 101B Front part of cushion 2 seatbacks 2a Pad material 2b Skin material 3 Headrests 3a Pillar 3b Pad material 3c Skin material 4 Rail device 4a Lower Rail 4b Apparel 4c locking component 5. Support bracket 5a Front support bracket 5b Rear support bracket 5c Bracket connection part 6 Height device 6a Height Link 6b Locking member 7. Reclining device 7a Reclining chair body 7b Back rotation axis 7c spiral spring 7d Operating lever 10 Cushion Frames 11 Side Frames 12. First connecting frame 13. Second connecting frame 14 Front frame 20 Backframe 21 Backside Frame 22 Upper frame 23 Lower frame 25 Connecting Brackets 30. Cushion Rotating Device (Cushion Adjusting Device) 31 Brackets 32 Cushion pivot axis (first pivot axis) 33 Locking member 40, 140 Support members (leg support members) 41 Pad material 42 Skin material 50. Support Rotating Device (Ottoman Device) 51 Bracket 52 Rotating axis (2nd rotating axis) 53 Locking member 60 Detection sensor (detection unit) 70 Control Unit (ECU) L Luggage

Claims

1. A vehicle seat equipped with a seat cushion, The seat cushion has a rear portion of the cushion that constitutes the rear part of the seat cushion, and a front portion of the cushion that constitutes the front part of the seat cushion. A cushion rotation device that connects the front portion of the cushion to the rear portion of the cushion so that it can rotate around a first pivot axis aligned with the seat width direction, A support member is attached to the front portion of the front part of the cushion, protrudes forward from the front part of the cushion, and supports the legs of the seated person. A vehicle seat characterized by comprising a support rotation device that rotatably connects the support member to the front portion of the cushion with respect to a second pivot axis along the width direction of the seat.

2. When the front portion of the cushion rotates relative to the rear portion of the cushion, the front part of the front portion of the cushion is positioned above the upper end of the rear portion of the cushion, The vehicle seat according to claim 1, characterized in that when the support member rotates relative to the front portion of the cushion, the front portion of the support member is positioned above the upper end of the rear portion of the cushion.

3. The vehicle seat according to claim 2, characterized in that when the support member rotates relative to the front portion of the cushion, the front portion of the support member is positioned above the front end of the front portion of the cushion.

4. The vehicle seat according to claim 1, characterized in that when the front portion of the cushion rotates relative to the rear portion of the cushion, and the support member rotates relative to the front portion of the cushion, a part of the support member is positioned behind the front end of the rear portion of the cushion.

5. The vehicle seat according to claim 1, characterized in that the front part of the cushion is detachably attached to the rear part of the cushion.

6. The vehicle seat according to claim 1, characterized in that when the support member rotates relative to the front portion of the cushion, the front portion of the cushion, the rear portion of the cushion, and the support member are aligned in a straight line when viewed from the side of the seat.

7. Equipped with a seat back, When the support member rotates relative to the front portion of the cushion, The support member is positioned above the seat cushion. The vehicle seat according to claim 1, characterized in that the support member supports luggage placed on the seat cushion by sandwiching it between the seat back.

8. The vehicle seat according to claim 1, characterized in that when the front portion of the cushion rotates relative to the rear portion of the cushion and the support member rotates relative to the front portion of the cushion, the support member is positioned to overlap with the front portion of the cushion when viewed from above the seat.

9. When the front portion of the cushion rotates relative to the rear portion of the cushion, the support member moves in accordance with the rotational movement of the front portion of the cushion, and / or The vehicle seat according to claim 1, characterized in that when the support member rotates relative to the front portion of the cushion, the front portion of the cushion moves in accordance with the rotational movement of the support member.

10. A detection unit for detecting the seating position of an occupant seated on the seat cushion, or the position of luggage placed on the seat cushion, The vehicle seat according to claim 1, further comprising a control device that controls the cushion rotating device and the support rotating device so as to adjust the positions of the front part of the cushion and the support member based on the detection result of the detection unit.

11. A support bracket is provided on the vehicle floor to support the seat cushion, The system comprises a height link connecting the first pivot shaft and the support bracket, The vehicle seat according to claim 1, characterized in that the support bracket is positioned directly above a floor support that supports the vehicle floor from below.

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