Cushions and vehicle seats

Abstract

The objective is to provide cushions and vehicle seats that can suppress significant deformation of cushioning members made of biomass urethane. [Solution] The cushion C comprises a first cushion member 11 and a deformation suppressing member (second cushion member 12). The first cushion member 11 is made of biomass urethane. The deformation suppressing member (second cushion member 12) contacts the first cushion member 11 and suppresses the deformation of the first cushion member 11.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to cushions and vehicle seats.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, a vehicle seat provided with a cushion pad made of urethane foam has been known (see Patent Document 1).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In recent years, biomass urethane, which is environmentally friendly, has been developed. Biomass urethane is a urethane foam containing raw materials including renewable biomass resources such as plants. A cushion member made of biomass urethane (hereinafter, also referred to as "first cushion member") can be applied to various locations such as vehicle seats, cushions, sofas, and door linings.

[0005] However, when the first cushion member is applied to various locations, depending on the magnitude of the load applied to the first cushion member, the first cushion member may be significantly deformed (e.g., sag). In particular, when applied to a position where it contacts a person, if it receives a large load from the person, the first cushion member may be significantly deformed. Furthermore, when applied to vehicle interior members (such as seats and door linings), due to changes in the behavior of the vehicle, an even larger load may be applied to the first cushion member, resulting in significant deformation or damage.

[0006] Therefore, the present invention aims to provide a cushion and a vehicle seat that can suppress significant deformation of a cushioning member made of biomass urethane. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] To solve the aforementioned problems, the cushion according to the present invention comprises a first cushion member made of biomass urethane and a deformation suppressing member that contacts the first cushion member and suppresses the deformation of the first cushion member.

[0008] With this configuration, the deformation of the first cushion member, which is made of biomass urethane, is suppressed by the deformation suppressing member, thus preventing the first cushion member from deforming excessively.

[0009] Furthermore, the deformation-suppressing member may be a second cushioning member that is less prone to deformation than the first cushioning member.

[0010] Furthermore, the cushion may have a seating surface that supports the user, and at least a portion of the second cushioning member may be positioned between the seating surface and the first cushioning member.

[0011] Furthermore, the cushion is a cushion that constitutes a seat on which the user sits, and has a base portion and bulging portions located on the left and right sides of the base portion that bulge outwards from the base portion toward the user, and the first cushion member may be positioned to avoid the user-facing side of the bulging portion.

[0012] With this configuration, the first cushioning member is positioned away from the user-facing side of the bulging portion, which is prone to receiving large loads from the user. As a result, the force applied to the user-facing side of the bulging portion is less likely to be transmitted to the first cushioning member, thus further suppressing the deformation of the first cushioning member.

[0013] Furthermore, the cushion is a cushion that constitutes a seat on which the user sits, and has a base portion and bulging portions located on the left and right sides of the base portion that bulge outwards from the base portion toward the user, and the first cushion member may be positioned to avoid the connection between the user-side surface of the base portion and the user-side surface of the bulging portion.

[0014] With this configuration, the first cushioning member is positioned to avoid the connection points where stress tends to concentrate. As a result, the stress applied to the connection points is less likely to be transmitted to the first cushioning member, thus further suppressing the deformation of the first cushioning member.

[0015] Furthermore, the second cushioning member may cover the entire surface of the first cushioning member.

[0016] With this configuration, no matter where the load is applied to the surface of the cushion, the force is less likely to be transmitted to the first cushion member, thus further suppressing the deformation of the first cushion member.

[0017] Furthermore, the cushion may have a ventilation passage through which air can pass, and the first cushion member may be located away from the ventilation passage.

[0018] With this configuration, the first cushion member is less affected by the deformation of the part of the cushion where the ventilation channel is formed, which is a part of the cushion that is prone to deformation, so the deformation of the first cushion member can be further suppressed.

[0019] Furthermore, the cushion may further include a heater, and the aforementioned cushion member may be separated from the heater.

[0020] With this configuration, the heat from the heater is less likely to be transferred to the first cushioning member, thus suppressing the first cushioning member from being affected by the heat from the heater.

[0021] Further, the cushion further includes a notification device that notifies the user, and the first cushion member may be away from the notification device.

[0022] According to this configuration, since the heat of the notification device is unlikely to be transmitted to the first cushion member, it is possible to suppress the first cushion member from being affected by the heat of the notification device.

[0023] Further, the cushion further includes a sensor that acquires the user's body information, and the first cushion member may be away from the sensor.

[0024] According to this configuration, since the heat of the sensor is unlikely to be transmitted to the first cushion member, it is possible to suppress the first cushion member from being affected by the heat of the sensor.

[0025] In addition, the vehicle seat according to the present invention includes the cushion, a frame that supports the cushion, and an airbag device, and the first cushion member is away from the airbag device.

[0026] According to this configuration, even if a force is applied to the cushion by the operation of the airbag device, it is possible to suppress the first cushion member from being deformed.

Advantages of the Invention

[0027] According to the present invention, it is possible to suppress the first cushion member made of biomass urethane from being greatly deformed.

[0028] In addition, according to the present invention, by arranging the first cushion member at a position avoiding the user side surface of the bulging portion that is likely to receive a large load from the user, the force applied to the user side surface of the bulging portion is unlikely to be transmitted to the first cushion member, so that the deformation of the first cushion member can be further suppressed.

[0029] Furthermore, according to the present invention, by positioning the first cushioning member at a location that avoids the connection between the user-facing surface of the base portion and the user-facing surface of the bulging portion, the stress applied to the connection is less likely to be transmitted to the first cushioning member, thereby further suppressing the deformation of the first cushioning member.

[0030] Furthermore, according to the present invention, by covering the entire surface of the first cushion member with the second cushion member, the force is less likely to be transmitted to the first cushion member regardless of the position on the surface of the cushion from which the load is applied, thereby further suppressing the deformation of the first cushion member.

[0031] Furthermore, according to the present invention, by separating the first cushion member from the ventilation passage, the first cushion member is less affected by the deformation of the portion of the cushion where the ventilation passage is formed, which is a portion of the cushion that is prone to deformation. Therefore, the deformation of the first cushion member can be further suppressed.

[0032] Furthermore, according to the present invention, by separating the first cushioning member from the heater, the heat from the heater is less likely to be transferred to the first cushioning member, thus suppressing the first cushioning member from being affected by the heat from the heater.

[0033] Furthermore, according to the present invention, by separating the first cushioning member from the notification device, the heat from the notification device is less likely to be transferred to the first cushioning member, thus suppressing the first cushioning member from being affected by the heat from the notification device.

[0034] Furthermore, according to the present invention, by separating the first cushioning member from the sensor, the heat from the sensor is less likely to be transferred to the first cushioning member, thus suppressing the first cushioning member from being affected by the sensor's heat.

[0035] Furthermore, according to the present invention, by separating the first cushion member from the airbag device, deformation of the first cushion member can be suppressed even when force is applied to the cushion due to the operation of the airbag device. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0036] [Figure 1] This is a perspective view of a vehicle seat according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] This is a perspective view of the seat frame. [Figure 3] This is a cross-section of the backrest. [Figure 4] This is a cross-sectional view of the backrest of a vehicle seat according to the second embodiment. [Figure 5] This is a cross-sectional view of the backrest of a vehicle seat according to the third embodiment. [Figure 6] This is a cross-sectional view of the backrest of a vehicle seat according to the fourth embodiment. [Figure 7] This is a cross-sectional view of the backrest of a vehicle seat according to the fifth embodiment. [Figure 8] This is a cross-sectional view showing a modified example of the fifth embodiment. [Figure 9] This is a cross-sectional view of the backrest of a vehicle seat according to the sixth embodiment. [Figure 10] This is a cross-sectional view of the backrest of a vehicle seat according to the seventh embodiment. [Figure 11] This is a cross-sectional view of the backrest of a vehicle seat according to the eighth embodiment. [Figure 12] This is a cross-sectional view of the backrest of a vehicle seat according to the ninth embodiment. [Figure 13] This is a cross-sectional view of the backrest of a vehicle seat according to the 10th embodiment. [Figure 14] This is a cross-sectional view of the backrest of a vehicle seat according to the 11th embodiment. [Figure 15] This is a cross-sectional view of the backrest of a vehicle seat according to the 12th embodiment. [Figure 16] This is a cross-sectional view showing a cushion according to the 13th embodiment, which is attached to the inner panel of a door. [Figure 17] Figures (a) and (b) show a cushion according to the 14th embodiment, which constitutes a cushion seat. [Figure 18] This figure shows a sofa with cushions according to the 15th embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0037] [First Embodiment] Next, a first embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings as appropriate. As shown in Figure 1, the vehicle seat S is, for example, a seat installed in a vehicle. The vehicle seat may also be, for example, a seat installed in a ship or an aircraft. In this specification, the front-to-back, left-to-right, and up-and-down directions are based on the user sitting in the vehicle seat S.

[0038] The vehicle seat S comprises a seat portion S1, a backrest S2, and a headrest S3. More specifically, the vehicle seat S is configured to include a seat frame FR as shown in Figure 2, a pad body 10 that covers the seat frame FR as shown in Figure 3, and a surface material 18 that covers the pad body 10.

[0039] The pad body 10 and the surface material 18 constitute a cushion C on which the user can sit. The cushion C is supported by the seat frame FR. The surface material 18 is made of synthetic leather, fabric, or the like.

[0040] As shown in Figure 2, the seat frame FR has a seat frame FR1 which forms the frame of the seat portion S1, and a backrest frame FR2 which forms the frame of the backrest S2. The cushion C is attached to the backrest frame FR2 and the seat frame FR1, respectively.

[0041] Although not shown in the diagram, the frame of the headrest S3 is detachably attached to the upper end of the backrest frame FR2. The headrest S3 frame is also covered with the pad body and surface material. In other words, the headrest S3 frame is also fitted with a cushion.

[0042] The seat frame FR1 and the backrest frame FR2 each have left and right side frames SF spaced apart to the left and right, and a support member 15 positioned between the left and right side frames SF that receives the load from the user. As shown in Figure 3, the support member 15 supports the central part of the pad body 10 in the left-right direction.

[0043] The cushion C shown in Figure 3 is a cushion that constitutes the backrest S2. Note that the structure of the cushion C that constitutes the seat S1 is substantially the same as that of the cushion C that constitutes the backrest S2, so its explanation is omitted.

[0044] As shown in Figure 3, the pad body 10 has a base portion 10A and bulging portions 10B located on the left and right sides of the base portion 10A. The bulging portions 10B bulge outwards from the base portion 10A towards the user. Since the pad body 10 has a substantially symmetrical structure, the figure shows one side in the left-right direction enlarged.

[0045] The base portion 10A has a first support surface F1 that faces the user. The bulging portion 10B has a second support surface F2 that faces the user. The first support surface F1 and the second support surface F2 are in contact with the surface member 18 and support the user through the surface member 18.

[0046] The pad body 10 has a suspension groove GR for suspending the surface member 18. The first support surface F1 and the second support surface F2 are connected at the bottom of the suspension groove GR. In other words, the connection portion CN between the first support surface F1 and the second support surface F2 is located at the bottom of the suspension groove GR. The suspension groove GR is located within the range of the support member 15 in the left-right direction.

[0047] The surface member 18 has a first seat surface F11 along the first support surface F1 and a second seat surface F12 along the second support surface F2. The first seat surface F11 and the second seat surface F12 are surfaces that face the user seated in the vehicle seat S and contact the user to support them.

[0048] The pad body 10 comprises a first cushion member 11 made of biomass urethane and a second cushion member 12 as an example of a deformation-suppressing member. Here, biomass urethane is a urethane foam blended with 50% or more plant-derived raw materials. For example, ECOLOCEL (registered trademark) can be used as biomass urethane.

[0049] The first cushion member 11 has the aforementioned first support surface F1, second support surface F2, suspension groove GR, and connecting portion CN. The first cushion member 11 constitutes the user-side portion of the pad body 10. The portion of the first cushion member 11 that constitutes the base portion 10A is located between the first seat surface F11 and the second cushion member 12. The portion of the first cushion member 11 that constitutes the bulging portion 10B is located between the second seat surface F12 and the second cushion member 12.

[0050] The second cushioning member 12 is made of urethane foam that is less prone to deformation than the first cushioning member 11. The second cushioning member 12 contacts the first cushioning member 11 to suppress deformation of the first cushioning member 11.

[0051] Here, as a test to investigate the resistance of deformation of the first cushion member 11 and the second cushion member 12, for example, Method A of the hardness test in the JIS Test Method for Flexible Foam Materials (JIS K6400-2:2012) can be adopted.

[0052] The second cushioning member 12 constitutes the portion of the pad body 10 opposite to the user. In other words, the second cushioning member 12 is the component of the pad body 10 that is located furthest from the user. The second cushioning member 12 is in contact with the support member 15 and the side frame SF, and is supported by the support member 15 and the side frame SF.

[0053] According to the first embodiment, the following effects can be obtained. Since the deformation of the first cushion member 11, which is made of biomass urethane, is suppressed by the second cushion member 12, it is possible to suppress large deformation of the first cushion member 11.

[0054] The present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above and can be used in various forms as illustrated below. In each of the embodiments described below, the same reference numerals are used for members that have substantially the same structure as those in other embodiments, and their descriptions are omitted.

[0055] [Second Embodiment] As shown in Figure 4, in the second embodiment, the pad body 20 is configured in the opposite way to the first embodiment, with the user side being the second cushion member 22 and the side opposite the user being the first cushion member 21.

[0056] The second cushion member 22 has the aforementioned first support surface F1, second support surface F2, suspension groove GR, and connecting portion CN. The portion of the second cushion member 22 that constitutes the base portion 10A is located between the first seat surface F11 and the first cushion member 21. The portion of the second cushion member 22 that constitutes the bulging portion 10B is located between the second seat surface F12 and the first cushion member 21.

[0057] The first cushion member 21 is in contact with the support member 15 and the side frame SF, and is supported by the support member 15 and the side frame SF. The first cushion member 21 is positioned to avoid the connection portion CN. The first cushion member 21 is positioned to avoid the second support surface F2. The first cushion member 21 is positioned to avoid the corner portion CP of the bulging portion 10B.

[0058] According to the second embodiment, the following effects can be obtained. By positioning the first cushion member 21 in a location that avoids the connection portion CN where stress tends to concentrate, the stress applied to the connection portion CN is less likely to be transmitted to the first cushion member 21, thus further suppressing the deformation of the first cushion member 21.

[0059] By positioning the first cushion member 21 in a location that avoids the second support surface F2, which is the user-facing side of the bulging portion 10B that is prone to receiving large loads from the user, the force applied to the second support surface F2 is less likely to be transmitted to the first cushion member 21, thus further suppressing the deformation of the first cushion member 21.

[0060] [Third Embodiment] As shown in Figure 5, the vehicle seat S30 according to the third embodiment further includes an airbag device AB. The airbag device AB comprises a bag-shaped airbag and an inflator that supplies gas into the airbag. The airbag device AB is fixed to the side frame SF.

[0061] The pad body 30 according to the third embodiment has a first cushion member 31 and a second cushion member 32, which have different shapes from those of the second embodiment. The first cushion member 31 constitutes the part of the base portion 10A that is opposite to the user. The first cushion member 31 is separated from the airbag device AB. The first cushion member 31 is separated from the tear line TL, which will be described later.

[0062] The first cushion member 31 is located between the left and right bulging portions 10B in the left-right direction. The first cushion member 31 is located between the left and right suspension grooves GR in the left-right direction. The first cushion member 31 is in contact with the support member 15 and is supported by the support member 15.

[0063] The second cushion member 32 constitutes the user-facing portion of the base portion 10A and also constitutes the bulging portion 10B. The second cushion member 32 has a recess 32A into which the first cushion member 31 fits. The second cushion member 32 has a slit-shaped tear line TL for deploying the airbag forward from the airbag device AB. The second cushion member 32 is in contact with the support member 15 and the side frame SF and is supported by the support member 15 and the side frame SF.

[0064] According to the third embodiment, the following effects can be obtained. Since the first cushion member 31 is separated from the airbag device AB, deformation of the first cushion member 31 can be suppressed even when force is applied to the cushion C due to the operation of the airbag device AB. Furthermore, since the first cushion member 31 does not have a tear line TL, deformation of the first cushion member 31 can be suppressed even further.

[0065] [Fourth Embodiment] As shown in Figure 6, the pad body 40 according to the fourth embodiment has a first cushion member 41 and a second cushion member 42, which have different shapes from those of the first embodiment. The second cushion member 42 covers the entire surface of the first cushion member 41. The first cushion member 41 is separated from all of the outer surface of the pad body 40 by being covered by the second cushion member 42.

[0066] The second cushion member 42 has the first support surface F1, the second support surface F2, the suspension groove GR, and the connecting portion CN as described above. The second cushion member 42 is in contact with the support member 15 and the side frame SF and is supported by the support member 15 and the side frame SF.

[0067] According to the fourth embodiment, the following effects can be obtained. Regardless of the position on the surface of cushion C from which the load is applied, the force is less likely to be transmitted to the first cushion member 41, thus further suppressing the deformation of the first cushion member 41. In addition, deterioration of the first cushion member 41 due to oxygen and moisture can be suppressed.

[0068] [Fifth Embodiment] As shown in Figure 7, the pad body 50 according to the fifth embodiment has a first cushion member 51 and a second cushion member 52, which have different shapes from those of the first embodiment. The second cushion member 52 constitutes the majority of the pad body 50, and the remaining portion of the pad body 50 is made up of the first cushion member 51.

[0069] The second cushion member 52 has most of the first support surface F1, the second support surface F2, the suspension groove GR, and the connecting part CN, as well as an air passage AL through which air passes. The air passage AL has a first opening AL1 that opens on the user-side surface of the pad body 50, i.e., the first support surface F1, and a second opening (not shown) that opens on the side of the pad body 50 opposite to the user. A blower capable of sending out or drawing in air is connected to the second opening (not shown) via a duct or the like. The second cushion member 52 is in contact with the support member 15 and the side frame SF and is supported by the support member 15 and the side frame SF.

[0070] The first cushion member 51 has a first member 511 that constitutes part of the base portion 10A and a second member 512 that constitutes part of the bulging portion 10B. The first member 511 and the second member 512 are separated from the ventilation passage AL. In other words, the first cushion member 51 is configured not to have a ventilation passage AL.

[0071] More specifically, the first member 511 is located between the ventilation passage AL and the suspension groove GR in the left-right direction. The first member 511 is inserted into a through hole 52A formed in the second cushion member 52. The through hole 52A penetrates the second cushion member 52 in a direction perpendicular to the first support surface F1. The first member 511 is in contact with the surface member 18 and the support member 15.

[0072] The second member 512 is located on the left-right outer side of the second cushion member 52. A portion of the second cushion member 52 is located between the second member 512 and the side frame SF.

[0073] According to the fifth embodiment, the following effects can be obtained. Since the first cushion member 51 is less affected by the deformation of the part of cushion C where the ventilation channel AL is formed, which is a part of cushion C that is prone to deformation, the deformation of the first cushion member 51 can be further suppressed.

[0074] As shown in Figure 8, the fifth embodiment may be configured without the ventilation passage AL. Even when the first cushion member 51 is placed in the position shown in Figures 7 and 8, the first cushion member 51 is positioned to avoid the connection portion CN and the second support surface F2, similar to the second embodiment.

[0075] [Sixth Embodiment] As shown in Figure 9, the pad body 60 according to the sixth embodiment includes a first cushion member 61 having substantially the same structure as the first cushion member 21 of the second embodiment, and a second cushion member 62 having a ventilation passage AL formed in the second cushion member 22 of the second embodiment. In the sixth embodiment as well, the first cushion member 61 is separated from the ventilation passage AL. Although not shown in the figures, the first cushion member 61 is also separated from the second opening that opens on the side of the second cushion member 62 opposite to the user. According to the sixth embodiment, the same effects as in the fifth embodiment can be obtained.

[0076] [Seventh Embodiment] As shown in Figure 10, the cushion C7 according to the seventh embodiment further comprises a heater H. The heater H is a heater that constitutes a sheet-like planar heating element. The pad body 70 according to the seventh embodiment has a first cushion member 71 which has substantially the same structure as the first cushion member 61 of the sixth embodiment, and a second cushion member 72 which has recesses 72A and 72B formed in the second cushion member 62 of the sixth embodiment.

[0077] The recesses 72A and 72B are recesses into which the heater H (planar heating element) is inserted. Recess 72A is formed on the first support surface F1 of the second cushion member 72. Recess 72B is formed on the second support surface F2 of the second cushion member 72.

[0078] The heater H is located between the surface member 18 and the second cushion member 72. The user-side surface of the heater H that is inside the recess 72A is flush with the first support surface F1. The user-side surface of the heater H that is inside the recess 72B is flush with the second support surface F2.

[0079] The first cushion member 71 is separated from the heater H. Between the heater H located at the base portion 10A and the first cushion member 71, a portion of the second cushion member 72 and a portion of the ventilation passage AL are located. Between the heater H located at the bulging portion 10B and the first cushion member 71, a portion of the second cushion member 72 is located. The first opening AL1 of the ventilation passage AL is located between the recess 72A and the suspension groove GR.

[0080] According to the seventh embodiment, since the first cushion member 71 is separated from the heater H, the heat from the heater H is less likely to be transferred to the first cushion member 71, thus suppressing the first cushion member 71 from being affected by the heat from the heater H. Furthermore, since a part of the ventilation passage AL is located between the heater H and the first cushion member 71, the first cushion member 71 can be further suppressed from being affected by the heat from the heater H.

[0081] [Eighth Embodiment] As shown in Figure 11, the cushion C8 according to the eighth embodiment further includes a notification device 300 that notifies the user and a sensor 400 that acquires the user's physical information. The notification device 300 has the function of notifying the user by generating vibration, sound, light, etc. The sensor 400 is, for example, a pressure sensor that detects pressure from the user. The sensor 400 may also be a seating sensor, a pulse wave sensor, a blood pressure sensor, etc.

[0082] The pressure value detected by the sensor 400 is output to a control unit (not shown). The control unit transmits the pressure value to, for example, a mobile device held by the user. The mobile device outputs, for example, instructions for the user to move their body on the vehicle seat S. When the user moves their body on the vehicle seat S, the mobile device executes an application program, such as a game, based on the pressure value corresponding to the body movement. If the application program needs to notify the user, the mobile device outputs a notification signal to the control unit. Upon receiving the notification signal, the control unit activates the notification device 300 to issue the notification.

[0083] The pad body 80 according to the eighth embodiment includes a first cushion member 81 having substantially the same structure as the first cushion member 71 of the seventh embodiment, and a second cushion member 82 having recesses 82A, 82B, and 82C formed in the second cushion member 72 of the seventh embodiment. Recess 82A is a recess into which the sensor 400 is placed. Recesses 82B and 82C are recesses into which the notification device 300 is placed.

[0084] Recesses 82A and 82B are formed on the first support surface F1 of the second cushion member 82. Recess 82C is formed on the second support surface F2 of the second cushion member 82. Recess 82A is located between recess 72A and recess 82B. Recess 82B is located between recess 82A and suspension groove GR. Recess 82C is located outward in the left-right direction from recess 72B.

[0085] The sensor 400 and the notification device 300 are located between the surface member 18 and the second cushion member 82. The user-side surface of the sensor 400 that is in recess 82A and the user-side surface of the notification device 300 that is in recess 82B are flush with the first support surface F1. The user-side surface of the notification device 300 that is in recess 82C is flush with the second support surface F2.

[0086] The first cushion member 81 is located away from the notification device 300. The first cushion member 81 is located away from the sensor 400. Between the notification device 300 located at the base portion 10A and the first cushion member 81, there is a portion of the second cushion member 82 and a portion of the ventilation passage AL. Between the sensor 400 and the first cushion member 81, there is a portion of the second cushion member 82 and a portion of the ventilation passage AL. Between the notification device 300 located at the bulging portion 10B and the first cushion member 81, there is a portion of the second cushion member 82.

[0087] According to the eighth embodiment, since the first cushioning member 81 is separated from the notification device 300 and the sensor 400, the heat from the notification device 300 and the sensor 400 is less likely to be transferred to the first cushioning member 81, thus suppressing the first cushioning member 81 from being affected by the heat from the notification device 300 and the sensor 400.

[0088] [Ninth Embodiment] As shown in Figure 12, the pad body 90 according to the ninth embodiment further includes a third cushion member 93 in addition to the first cushion member 91 and the second cushion member 92. The first cushion member 91 and the second cushion member 92 have substantially the same structure as those of the eighth embodiment.

[0089] The first cushion member 91 has a recess 91A on the surface facing the second cushion member 92. The recess 91A is located within the base portion 10A.

[0090] The third cushioning member 93 is made of urethane foam that is less prone to deformation than the second cushioning member 92. The same tests as those used in the first embodiment can be used to examine the resistance to deformation.

[0091] The third cushion member 93 fits into the recess 91A. The user-facing surface of the third cushion member 93, once inside the recess 91A, is flush with the user-facing surface of the first cushion member 91. The third cushion member 93 is located between the first cushion member 91 and the second cushion member 92. In the left-right direction, the third cushion member 93 is located between the left and right suspension grooves GR. In the left-right direction, the third cushion member 93 is separated from the left and right suspension grooves GR.

[0092] In the left-right direction, the ventilation passage AL is located within the range of the third cushioning member 93. In the left-right direction, the heater H, notification device 300, and sensor 400 located on the base portion 10A are located within the range of the third cushioning member 93.

[0093] According to the ninth embodiment, the third cushion member 93, which is less prone to deformation than the second cushion member 92, supports a portion of the first cushion member 91, thereby further suppressing deformation of the first cushion member 91.

[0094] [Tenth Embodiment] As shown in Figure 13, the position of the third cushion member 103 in the pad body 100 according to the 10th embodiment is different from that of the 9th embodiment. The first cushion member 101 according to the 10th embodiment has a structure in which the thickness of the part corresponding to the base portion 10A of the first cushion member 81 in the 8th embodiment has been reduced. The second cushion member 102 according to the 10th embodiment has a structure substantially the same as that of the 8th embodiment. A part of the first cushion member 101 (the part that constitutes the base portion 10A) is located between the second cushion member 102 and the third cushion member 103.

[0095] The third cushion member 103 is located between the first cushion member 101 and the support member 15. The third cushion member 103 is in contact with the first cushion member 101 and the support member 15. In the left-right direction, the left and right suspension grooves GR are located within the range of the third cushion member 103.

[0096] According to the tenth embodiment, the same effects as in the ninth embodiment can be obtained. Furthermore, in the tenth embodiment, the third cushion member 103 supports the first cushion member 101 over a wider range in the left-right direction than in the ninth embodiment, so deformation of the first cushion member 101 can be further suppressed.

[0097] [Embodiment No. 11] As shown in Figure 14, in the 11th embodiment, the pad body 110, contrary to the 8th embodiment, is composed of a first cushioning member 111 on the user side and a second cushioning member 112 on the side opposite to the user.

[0098] The first cushion member 111 has substantially the same structure as the second cushion member 82 of the eighth embodiment. The first cushion member 111 has the first support surface F1, the second support surface F2, the suspension groove GR, the connecting part CN, the ventilation passage AL, and the recesses 72A, 72B, 82A to 82C described above. The first cushion member 111 is in contact with the heater H, the notification device 300, and the sensor 400.

[0099] The second cushion member 112 has substantially the same structure as the first cushion member 81 of the eighth embodiment. The second cushion member 112 is in contact with the support member 15 and the side frame SF, and is supported by the support member 15 and the side frame SF.

[0100] In the 11th embodiment as well, since the first cushioning member 111 is supported by the second cushioning member 112, deformation of the first cushioning member 111 can be suppressed.

[0101] [Twelfth Embodiment] As shown in Figure 15, the pad body 120 according to the 12th embodiment has a first cushion member 121 and a second cushion member 122, which have substantially the same structure as those of the 11th embodiment, as well as a third cushion member 123 that is less prone to deformation than the second cushion member 122. The third cushion member 123 is located between the first cushion member 121 and the second cushion member 122.

[0102] The third cushion member 123 comprises a base portion 10A and a bulging portion 10B. The third cushion member 123 extends continuously from one end E1 to the other end (not shown) of the pad body 120 in a cross section (hereinafter also referred to as the "cross section") along the direction perpendicular to the first support surface F1 and the left-right direction. Similarly, the first cushion member 121 and the second cushion member 122 also extend continuously from one end E1 to the other end (not shown) of the pad body 120 in a cross section.

[0103] According to the twelfth embodiment, since the first cushion member 121 is supported by the third cushion member 123 from one end to the other, deformation of the first cushion member 121 can be further suppressed.

[0104] [13th Embodiment] As shown in Figure 16, the cushion C13 according to the 13th embodiment is attached to the inner panel IP that constitutes the door of the vehicle. The door comprises a metal outer panel and an inner panel IP.

[0105] The cushion C13 has a first part P1 that constitutes the door lining and a second part P2 that constitutes the armrest. The second part P2 protrudes from the user-side surface of the first part P1. The cushion C13 also has a surface material 18, a heater H, a notification device 300, a sensor 400, a ventilation passage AL, and a pad body 130.

[0106] The pad body 130 has two first cushion members 131, a second cushion member 132, and a third cushion member 133. The second cushion member 132 has a plurality of recesses in which a heater H, a notification device 300, and a sensor 400 are installed, and a ventilation passage AL. The ventilation passage AL is formed in the shape of a groove that opens outward in the left-right direction. A part of the second cushion member 132 protrudes toward the user and constitutes an armrest. The surface member 18 is attached to the user-facing surface of the second cushion member 132.

[0107] One of the two first cushion members 131 constitutes part of the first part P1 (door lining), and the other first cushion member 131 constitutes part of the second part P2 (armrest). One of the first cushion members 131 is located between the second cushion member 132 and the third cushion member 133. One of the first cushion members 131 covers the opening of the groove-shaped ventilation passage AL, thereby forming part of the ventilation passage AL.

[0108] The other first cushion member 131 is located inside the portion of the second cushion member 132 that constitutes the armrest. The entire surface of the other first cushion member 131 is covered by the second cushion member 132. Each first cushion member 131 is separated from the heater H, the notification device 300, and the sensor 400. The third cushion member 133 is in contact with and supported by the inner panel IP.

[0109] According to the 13th embodiment, the first cushion member 131 is supported by being sandwiched between the second cushion member 132 and the third cushion member 133, so that deformation of the first cushion member 131 can be suppressed. Note that at least a portion of the first cushion member needs to be positioned between the second cushion member and the third cushion member.

[0110] [14th Embodiment] As shown in Figures 17(a) and (b), the cushion C14 according to the 14th embodiment is used as a seat cushion by being attached to the seat surface 501 of a chair 500 or placed on the floor surface 600. The cushion C14 has a surface member 18, a sensor 400, and a pad body 140.

[0111] The cushion C14 has a control unit (not shown). The control unit is configured to output the pressure value of the sensor 400 to a mobile terminal, similar to the eighth embodiment.

[0112] The pad body 140 includes a first cushioning member 141 and a second cushioning member 142. The second cushioning member 142 has a plurality of recesses on which the sensor 400 and the first cushioning member 141 are installed.

[0113] The sensor 400 is located on the user-facing side of the second cushioning member 142. The first cushioning member 141 is located on the user-opposite side of the second cushioning member 142. The first cushioning member 141 is away from the sensor 400. The surface member 18 covers the entire surface of the second cushioning member 142.

[0114] According to the 14th embodiment, since the first cushioning member 141 is separated from the sensor 400, it is possible to suppress the transfer of heat from the sensor 400 to the first cushioning member 141.

[0115] [15th Embodiment] As shown in Figure 18, the cushion C15 according to the 15th embodiment constitutes various parts of the sofa 700. The sofa 700 includes a seat cushion 710, a seat back 720, a headrest 730, armrests 740, and a control unit 750. The armrests 740 are provided on both the left and right sides of the seat cushion 710. For convenience, the illustration of the surface material is omitted in Figure 18.

[0116] The cushion C15 has at least one of a heater H, a sensor 400, and a ventilation passage AL, as well as a pad body 150 and a surface member (not shown) that covers the entire surface of the pad body 150. The pad body 150 has a first cushion member 151 and a second cushion member 152. The first cushion member 151 is separated from the heater H, the sensor 400, and the ventilation passage AL. The heater H, the sensor 400, and the first opening AL1 of the ventilation passage AL are located on the user-facing side of the pad body 150.

[0117] More specifically, the cushion C15 that constitutes the seat cushion 710 has a heater H and a plurality of sensors 400. The plurality of sensors 400 are located in the front part of the pad body 150. Here, the number of sensors 400 may be, for example, four in total, by providing one pair of sensors 400 arranged in the front-to-back direction on each side of the seat cushion 710. The heater H is located behind the sensors 400.

[0118] The cushion C15 constituting the seat cushion 710 has two first cushion members 151. One of the first cushion members 151 is located on the side of the pad body 150 opposite to the user. The rear end of the heater H is located within the range of one of the first cushion members 151 in the front-rear direction. The front end of one of the first cushion members 151 is located within the range of the heater H in the front-rear direction.

[0119] The other first cushion member 151 is located on the rear surface of the pad body 150. The other first cushion member 151 is separated from the top and bottom surfaces of the pad body 150.

[0120] The cushion C15 that constitutes the seat back 720 has a heater H and a sensor 400. The sensor 400 is located above the heater H. Alternatively, one sensor 400 may be provided on each side of the seat back 720.

[0121] The cushion C15 that constitutes the seat back 720 has three first cushion members 151. The three first cushion members 151 are arranged with a gap between them in the vertical direction. At least a portion of the sensor 400 is located within the range of the uppermost first cushion member 151 in the vertical direction. The middle first cushion member 151 is located within the range of the heater H in the vertical direction. At least a portion of the lowermost first cushion member 151 is located within the range of the heater H in the vertical direction.

[0122] The cushion C15 constituting the headrest 730 has a sensor 400 and a ventilation passage AL. The sensor 400 is located above the first opening AL1 of the ventilation passage AL. At least a portion of the sensor 400 is located within the range of the first cushion member 151 in the vertical direction. At least a portion of the first opening AL1 is located within the range of the first cushion member 151 in the vertical direction.

[0123] The cushion C15 constituting the armrest 740 has a heater H, a sensor 400, and a ventilation passage AL. The heater H is located at the lower rear of the armrest 740. The sensor 400 is located in front of the heater H. One sensor 400 is provided in the center and one in the upper part of the armrest 740 in the vertical direction. The first opening AL1 of the ventilation passage AL is located above the heater H. The cushion C15 constituting the armrest 740 has a first cushion member 151 inside (not shown).

[0124] The control unit 750 controls the heater H and acquires information from the sensor 400. The control unit 750 is connected to a commercial power supply 800 installed on the wall of a building or the like.

[0125] According to the 15th embodiment, since the first cushioning member 151 is separated from the sensor 400, etc., it is possible to suppress the transfer of heat from the sensor 400, etc. to the first cushioning member 151.

[0126] The deformation-restricting member may be made of a material that is more easily deformed than the first cushioning member, but it is preferable that it be made of a material that is less easily deformed than the first cushioning member. A material that is less easily deformed than the first cushioning member may be, for example, a plate-shaped or rod-shaped material made of metal or resin.

[0127] The cushion may have no outer covering material. For example, the cushion may consist only of the pad body. The cushion may constitute an interior component of the vehicle other than the door lining.

[0128] The elements described in the above-mentioned embodiments and modifications may be implemented in any combination. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0129] 11. First cushioning member 12. Second cushioning member C Cushion

Claims

[Claim 1] A first cushioning member made of biomass urethane, A cushion characterized by comprising a deformation suppressing member that contacts the first cushioning member and suppresses the deformation of the first cushioning member.

Images