chair

Abstract

The objective is to provide a chair that allows the user to change their posture according to their current situation (activity schedule). [Solution] A chair having at least a seat, wherein the chair comprises a posture changing unit for changing the user's posture, a control unit for controlling the driving of the posture changing unit, and a storage unit for storing the user's action schedule, wherein the control unit has a normal mode for driving the posture changing unit based on the user's operation and a scheduled mode for driving the posture changing unit based on the action schedule stored in the storage unit.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a chair.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, active office chairs have been proposed that can bring about unconscious active movement in the user's spine by moving the seat surface (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problem to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] The active office chair described in the above Patent Document 1 drives the means adapted to move the seat surface (movable member) and the height adjustment and fixing means based on a control program stored in a control unit, thereby making the seated person unconsciously perform corrective exercise, and has a problem that the user's current situation (action schedule) is not taken into consideration. The present invention has been made to solve the above-described problem, and an object thereof is to provide a chair capable of changing the posture of a user in accordance with the user's current situation (action schedule).

Means for Solving the Problem

[0005] The present invention relates to a chair having at least a seat, wherein the chair comprises a posture changing unit for changing the user's posture, a control unit for controlling the driving of the posture changing unit, and a storage unit for storing the user's action schedule, and the control unit has a normal mode for driving the posture changing unit based on the user's operation and a scheduled mode for driving the posture changing unit based on the action schedule stored in the storage unit. This configuration allows the user's posture to be changed according to their activity schedule.

[0006] Furthermore, it is preferable that the device has an operation unit for inputting the action schedule, and that the action schedule can be changed by operating the operation unit. This configuration allows users to input activity schedules and modify existing activity schedules.

[0007] Furthermore, it is preferable that the operating unit is an electronic communication terminal independent of the chair, the chair has a communication unit for communicating with the electronic communication terminal via a communication network, and the control unit controls the driving of the posture changing unit in the schedule mode based on the action schedule input by the electronic communication terminal. This configuration allows users to input their activity schedule even when they are away from their chair.

[0008] Furthermore, it is preferable that the system includes a measuring unit for measuring the user's seating duration, and that the control unit can control the operation of the posture changing unit in the schedule mode based on the seating duration measured by the measuring unit. This configuration allows the user's posture to be changed according to the duration of their seating.

[0009] Furthermore, it is preferable that the control unit controls the drive of the posture changing unit when the seating duration exceeds a predetermined value in the schedule mode. This configuration prevents users from unconsciously maintaining the same posture for extended periods.

[0010] Furthermore, it is preferable that the predetermined value can be set by operating the control unit. This configuration allows the user to set the timing for driving the posture change unit.

[0011] Furthermore, the seat portion preferably has a detection unit for detecting load, the detection unit can detect the distribution of load received from the user seated on the seat portion, and the control unit preferably controls the driving of the posture change portion in the schedule mode based on the load distribution detected by the detection unit. This configuration allows the drive of the attitude-changing section to be controlled according to the load distribution.

[0012] Furthermore, it is preferable that the system further includes an authentication unit to identify the user, and that the activity schedule is reflected in the schedule mode of the chair used by the user based on the authentication result by the authentication unit. This configuration allows for the reflection of activity schedules tailored to authenticated users.

[0013] Furthermore, it is preferable that the action schedule includes attribute information, which includes one of the following: meeting, visitor, position, job duties, or desk work, and that the control unit controls the driving of the posture changing unit based on the attribute information. This configuration allows the drive of the posture changing unit to be controlled according to the user's attribute information. [Effects of the Invention]

[0014] According to the present invention, the user's posture can be changed according to the user's situation (activity schedule) at that time. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0015] [Figure 1] It is a perspective view of a chair according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] It is a block diagram of the chair according to the embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] It is a schematic diagram showing the posture of the chair according to the embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] It is a schematic diagram of the chair according to the embodiment of the present invention, and is a diagram showing a state in which the chair is provided with a measurement unit and a detection unit. [Figure 5] It is a schematic diagram showing an operation unit according to the embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6] It is a diagram showing a screen of the operation unit according to the embodiment of the present invention, wherein (a) is a diagram showing a continuous sitting time, (b) is a diagram showing a screen for setting a predetermined value, and (c) is a diagram showing a screen during execution of a schedule mode. [Figure 7] It is a diagram showing a screen of the operation unit according to the embodiment of the present invention, wherein (a) is a diagram showing a state of authenticating a user, (b) is a diagram showing a state where authentication is completed, and (c) is a diagram showing a screen during execution of a schedule mode. [Figure 8] It is a diagram showing an action schedule according to the embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9] It is a diagram showing a state of inputting the action schedule according to the embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10] It is a diagram showing a state of reflecting the input action schedule according to the embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 11] It is a diagram showing attribute information according to the embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 12] It is a flow diagram according to the embodiment of the present invention.

[0016] [Overall Configuration of Chair] Hereinafter, the overall configuration of the chair 1 according to the embodiment of the present invention will be described. Figure 1 is a perspective view of chair 1 according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 is a block diagram of chair 1 according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 3 is a schematic diagram showing the posture of chair 1 according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of chair 1 according to one embodiment of the present invention, showing chair 1 equipped with a measuring unit 40 and a detection unit 30. In this embodiment, the arrangement and number of each posture changing unit M (3a to 5a) are examples only and are not limited to these. They can be appropriately modified depending on the embodiment.

[0017] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, a chair 1 according to one embodiment of the present invention consists of a base F that supports the seat 3, a seat 3 on which the user sits, a backrest 4 provided at the rear of the seat 3 for the user to lean against, a pillow 2 attached above the backrest 4, and a footrest 5 provided at the front of the seat 3. Armrests (not shown) may be attached to the sides of the seat 3. The pillow 2, seat 3, backrest 4, and footrest 5 function as body support parts that support the user's body.

[0018] Chair 1 is equipped with various components including: posture changing units M (posture changing units 3a, 4a, 5a) for changing the user's posture; a control unit 7 for controlling the functions of Chair 1 (for example, controlling the drive of the posture changing units M); a storage unit 20 for storing the user's action schedule S; a communication unit 60 for communicating with an electronic communication terminal 100 via a communication network; an operation unit 50 for performing various operations on Chair 1; and an air supply and exhaust device 9 for supplying and exhausting air to the air cells that make up the posture changing units M. Each component will be described later.

[0019] [Configuration of the control unit] As shown in Figure 2, the chair 1 is equipped with a control unit 7 consisting of a microcomputer and the like for controlling the operation of the posture change unit M and the air supply and exhaust device 9 (composed of a pump 9a and a valve 9b). The control unit 7 is located below the seat 3. The control unit 7 is connected to an operation unit 50 for the user to operate the chair 1, and a storage unit 20 that stores the action schedule S and the posture change program P.

[0020] The system is configured so that the user can change their posture by operating the operation unit 50 to drive each posture changing unit M. The control unit 7 has a normal mode NM in which the posture changing unit M selected by the user is driven based on the operation of the operation unit 50, and a scheduled mode SM in which the posture changing unit M is driven based on the action schedule S stored in the memory unit 20.

[0021] [Normal Mode Configuration] Normal mode NM is a mode in which any of the posture changing parts M located in various places on the chair 1 can be driven based on the user's operation of the control unit 50. When the power to the chair 1 is turned on, a screen 50a on the control unit 50 displays a screen for selecting a mode (see Figure 5). By selecting the button 50b labeled "Normal" on this screen, normal mode NM is activated.

[0022] When normal mode NM is activated, a screen for selecting the attitude change unit M to be driven is displayed on the screen 50a of the control unit 50. For example, an image like that shown in Figure 7(c) is displayed on the screen 50a. The user selects any attitude change unit M that they want to drive from the displayed attitude change unit M. The selected attitude change unit M is highlighted (in Figure 7(c), the selected attitude change unit M is shown with diagonal lines). In this embodiment, the case where one attitude change unit M is selected is described as an example, but this is just an example and is not limited to this. Multiple attitude change units M may be selected. By doing so, the user can activate any posture-changing unit M. In other words, the user's posture can be changed by the posture-changing unit M.

[0023] Furthermore, even in normal mode NM, selectable posture change programs P may be stored in the memory unit 20. This allows the user to change their posture simply by pressing a button for a specific posture change program P (name: stretch course) that is selectable even in normal mode NM, without having to go through the trouble of selecting each posture change unit M one by one.

[0024] Furthermore, a display indicating that Normal Mode NM is running may be shown on screen 50a (for example, displaying "[Normal Mode NM]" in the upper left corner of screen 50a). By displaying on screen 50a that Normal Mode NM is running, the user can understand whether the currently running mode is Normal Mode NM or Schedule Mode SM.

[0025] [Configuring Schedule Mode] Schedule Mode SM is a mode in which the posture change unit M is automatically driven based on the action schedule S stored in the memory unit 20. In other words, unlike Normal Mode NM, the user does not select the posture change unit M they want to drive, but rather the posture change unit M is automatically driven according to the action schedule S. When the power to chair 1 is turned on, a screen 50a on the control unit 50 displays a screen for selecting the mode (see Figure 5). By selecting the button 50b labeled "Schedule" on this screen, Schedule Mode SM is activated.

[0026] When the Schedule Mode SM is activated, a screen indicating the attitude change unit M being driven is displayed on the screen 50a of the control unit 50. For example, an image like that shown in Figure 7(c) is displayed on the screen 50a. The attitude change unit M being driven is highlighted (in Figure 7(c), the attitude change unit M being driven is indicated by diagonal lines). By looking at the screen 50a, the user can see which attitude change unit M is currently being driven.

[0027] Furthermore, the screen 50a may display an indication that Schedule Mode SM is running (for example, by displaying "[Schedule Mode SM]" in the upper left corner of the screen 50a). By displaying that Schedule Mode SM is running on the screen 50a, the user can understand whether the currently running mode is Normal Mode NM or Schedule Mode SM. In this embodiment, a common image is used for both Normal Mode NM and Schedule Mode SM as the image showing the drive status of the attitude change unit M displayed on the screen 50a, but this is just an example and is not limited to this. Images dedicated to Normal Mode NM and images dedicated to Schedule Mode SM may also be used.

[0028] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 6(c), the timing at which the attitude change unit M is activated may be displayed on screen 50a while the scheduled mode SM is running. This allows the user to know in advance that the attitude change unit M will be activated. In other words, it prevents the user from being surprised by the sudden activation of the attitude change unit M. Any method is acceptable as long as it can inform the user of the timing at which the posture change unit M is driven. For example, the user may be notified via the audio output unit 53 (see Figure 5), or a light-emitting unit (not shown) may be provided and the user may be notified via the light-emitting unit (not shown).

[0029] Figure 6 shows the screen 50a of the operation unit 50 according to one embodiment of the present invention, where (a) shows the screen 50a showing the seating duration, (b) shows the screen 50a for setting a predetermined value, and (c) shows the screen 50a while the schedule mode SM is being executed. The predetermined value refers to the seating duration that triggers the operation of the posture change unit M. For example, if the predetermined value is set to 15 minutes, 15 minutes will be the trigger, and the posture change unit M will be operated when the seating duration exceeds 15 minutes. Also, if the predetermined value is set to 45 minutes, 45 minutes will be the trigger, and the posture change unit M will be operated when the seating duration exceeds 45 minutes.

[0030] The displayed image is just an example and is not limited to this. For example, in the case of Figure 6(a), it would suffice to display how long the person has been sitting. The background color of screen 50a could change as the sitting time increases. For example, it could be green if the sitting time is between 1 and 10 minutes, yellow if it is between 11 and 25 minutes, and red if it is 25 minutes or more. Alternatively, for example, the font size of the text displayed on screen 50a could gradually increase as the sitting time lengthens. For instance, it could be set to font size 8 for sitting times of 1 to 10 minutes, font size 10 for sitting times of 11 to 25 minutes, and font size 15 for sitting times of 25 minutes or more.

[0031] In the case of Figure 6(b), it is sufficient to be able to set a predetermined value. As shown in Figure 6(b), the predetermined value can be set by directly inputting a number, or a graph can be displayed on the screen 50a (with the left side being 0 and the numbers increasing as you move to the right), and the predetermined value can be set by moving a pointer displayed on the graph left or right. After entering the predetermined value, the setting of the predetermined value is completed by pressing the OK button (not shown) displayed next to the back button 54.

[0032] The predetermined value may be pre-set by the manufacturer of chair 1, or it may be configured to be configurable by operating the control unit 50. Alternatively, it may be set automatically based on the user's attribute information. Attribute information will be described later. For example, when setting by operating the control unit 50, the words "How many minutes until activation?" are displayed on the screen 50a, as shown in Figure 6(b). Here, by entering an arbitrary time (for example, 15), the timing (a predetermined value) for driving the attitude change unit M can be set.

[0033] It is preferable to set an upper limit on the arbitrary time that can be set. Generally, it is said that sitting for more than 30 minutes can impair blood flow, cause blood clots, and lead to discomfort, so it is important not to maintain the same posture for more than 30 minutes. For this reason, for example, if 45 is entered, it may be acceptable to reject the input as an error.

[0034] In the case of Figure 6(c), it is sufficient that the time until the posture change unit M is activated is displayed. For example, the font size of the characters displayed on screen 50a may gradually increase as the time to activate the posture change unit M approaches. For example, it could be 8 font size 20 minutes before, 10 font size 10 minutes before, and 15 font size 5 minutes before. Also, the time until the posture change unit M is activated does not need to be displayed at all times. The user may be able to set the timing of the display, or it may be displayed starting 10 minutes before the posture change unit M is activated.

[0035] As shown in Figures 6(a) to 6(c), a back button 54 is displayed in the lower right corner of screen 50a. By pressing the back button 54, the user can return the image displayed on screen 50a to its original state (the image that was displayed one step earlier). More specifically, it is possible to return from the state in Figures 6(a) and 6(c) to the state in Figure 7(c), and from the state in Figure 6(b) to the state in Figure 5.

[0036] In Schedule Mode SM, the user's seating duration on the seat 3 can be measured by the measurement unit 40, which will be described later. Based on the seating duration measured by the measurement unit 40, the control unit 7 controls the driving of the posture change unit M in Schedule Mode SM (executes the posture change program P, which will be described later) when it exceeds a predetermined value. For example, if a predetermined value of 30 minutes is set, the drive of the posture changing unit M is controlled when the sitting time exceeds 30 minutes (the set predetermined value). In this way, the posture can be changed according to the user's sitting time. In other words, it is possible to prevent the user from maintaining the same posture for a long period of time.

[0037] The memory unit 20 stores the activity schedule S and the posture change program P. The activity schedule S refers to the user's schedule for the day (for example, a time schedule such as arriving at work at 9:00, having a visitor at 10:00, and leaving work at 18:00) as well as the user's schedule for the next day, next week, etc. (see Figure 8). The activity schedule S stored in the memory unit 20 may be for one day, one week, or one month. The activity schedule S includes attribute information.

[0038] Furthermore, since past action schedules S do not affect the operation of the posture change unit M, it is preferable that they be automatically deleted over time. For example, they may be configured to be deleted at 24:00 each day, or the user may be able to set the time for deletion (e.g., delete at 20:00 every day). Alternatively, they may be configured to automatically delete action schedules S from one hour prior to the current time. By deleting past action schedules S, the capacity of the memory unit 20 can be reduced.

[0039] Attribute information refers to information about the user (see Figures 8 and 9). User information refers to information that makes up the activity schedule S, such as meetings (including online meetings), visitors, desk work, going out (such as visiting clients), and internal meetings—in other words, information that is like a time schedule. Furthermore, attribute information includes information about the user's status. This information about the user's status includes information about the user's position (e.g., department head, section chief) and job duties (e.g., accounting staff, human resources staff) (see Figure 11). Note that this is just an example of attribute information and is not limited to this. Any information about the user can be included in the attribute information. By using attribute information, the drive of the posture change unit M can be controlled according to the user's attribute information.

[0040] Posture change program P is a program for changing the posture of the user using chair 1. Multiple posture change programs P (posture change program P1, posture change program P2, posture change program P3, ...) are stored. For example, posture change program P1 is a program that drives the posture change unit M provided on the seat 3 (such as driving only the right posture change unit M, or driving the left and right posture change units M alternately). Also, posture change program P2 is a program that drives the posture change units M provided on the seat 3 and the backrest 4 (such as driving the right posture change unit M on the seat 3 and the left posture change unit M on the backrest 4).

[0041] Furthermore, the posture change program P is modified according to the activity schedule S. For example, the amount of time the user maintains the same posture (sitting in chair 1) will differ depending on whether the activity schedule S includes "desk work" for a long period (e.g., from 13:00 to 17:00) or "desk work" for a short period (e.g., from 9:00 to 10:00).

[0042] Therefore, even with the same posture change program P (for example, posture change program P9), by reflecting the user's activity schedule S, for example, for users who do desk work for long periods, the posture change program P9a can be changed to one that activates the posture change unit M every 30 minutes. Conversely, for users who do desk work for short periods, the posture change program P9b can be changed to one that activates the posture change unit M every 15 minutes. In other words, a posture change program P tailored to the individual user can be executed.

[0043] In other words, the posture change program P is a program that can change the posture of the user using the chair 1 by appropriately combining the posture change units M that are driven from among the posture change units M provided on the seat 3 and backrest 4. The contents of the posture change program P are merely an example and are not limited to this. Any content is acceptable as long as it controls the drive of the posture change unit M so that the posture of the user using the chair 1 can be changed (for example, the posture change unit M may be provided on the pillow 2, and the drive of the posture change unit M provided on the pillow 2 may be combined).

[0044] [Base configuration] As shown in Figures 1 and 3, the base F supports the seat 3. The base F also functions as an actuator for adjusting the vertical height. The height of the seat 3 can be adjusted by operating a lever (not shown) attached to the base F. The base F is formed in an inverted, roughly T-shape (see Figure 3 in particular). The upper part of the vertically extending portion is attached to the underside of the seat 3. The lower part of the vertically extending portion branches into four directions, and casters F1 for moving the chair 1 are attached to each of the branched ends.

[0045] [Seat structure] As shown in Figure 1, the seat 3 is composed of a rectangular member that is elongated horizontally in the left-right direction. The seat 3 is attached to the base F, which is the base of the chair 1. On the upper surface of the seat 3, there are four posture changing parts 3a (posture changing parts M) that change the posture of the user by pressing on the buttocks of the user who is seated on the seat 3. Specifically, a pair of posture changing parts 3a that press on the user's thighs are provided on the front side of the seat 3, and a pair of posture changing parts 3a that press on the user's buttocks are provided on the rear side of the seat 3.

[0046] The posture changing section 3a is composed of air cells that expand and contract by the supply and exhaust of air. The four posture changing sections 3a can each be driven independently. By driving them independently, a wide variety of actions can be taken when changing the user's posture. The seat section 3 is equipped with a detection section 30 that detects the load received from the user and a measurement section 40 that measures the duration of the user's seating on the seat section 3. The detection section 30 and the measurement section 40 will be described later.

[0047] [Structure of the backrest and pillow section] As shown in Figure 1, the backrest 4 is made up of a rectangular member that is long in the height direction. On the front of the backrest 4, there are six posture changing parts 4a (posture changing parts M) that change the posture of the user by pressing against the back of the user's torso when leaning against the backrest 4. Specifically, there are two pairs of posture changing parts 4a that press around the user's shoulder blades on the upper side of the backrest 4, two pairs of posture changing parts 4a that press around the user's back on the center of the backrest 4, and two pairs of posture changing parts 4a that press around the user's waist on the lower side of the backrest 4.

[0048] The posture-changing section 4a is composed of air cells that expand and contract by the supply and exhaust of air. The six posture-changing sections 3a can each be driven independently. By driving them independently, a wide variety of actions can be taken when changing the user's posture. The backrest section 4 is also provided with a detection unit 30 that detects the load received from the user.

[0049] A pillow section 2 is attached above the backrest section 4 to support the user's head. The pillow section 2 may be configured to be movable in the vertical and horizontal directions. This allows the height of the pillow section 2 to be adjusted to match the user's sitting height, and the horizontal position of the pillow section 2 to match the user's posture. Furthermore, the pillow portion 2 may be provided with a posture changing unit (not shown). For example, if the pillow portion 2 is provided with a left and right pair of posture changing units (not shown), the user's head posture can be changed (a stretching motion for the user's head (including the neck)) by driving the left and right posture changing units (not shown) alternately.

[0050] As shown in Figure 3, the backrest 4 is configured to recline in the front-rear direction relative to the seat 3 via a pivot axis C1 provided on the rear end side of the seat 3, allowing the user to change from an upright position to a reclined position. The method for reclining the backrest 4 may be manual or electric. Alternatively, a configuration with both manual and electric reclining may be provided. In this embodiment, the backrest 4 can be reclined by operating button 52 (electric).

[0051] Since the chair 1 in this embodiment is a so-called office chair, it is preferable that the reclining angle of the backrest 4 is within the range of 90 to 160 degrees. This is because if the reclining angle of the backrest 4 relative to the seat 3 is set to 90 degrees or less, the seat 3 and backrest 4 will be at an acute angle, resulting in an uncomfortable posture for the user (and thus compromising comfort). Furthermore, if the reclining angle of the backrest 4 is set to 160 degrees or more, the backrest 4 may not be able to withstand the load from the user, and the chair 1 may tip over.

[0052] [Footrest configuration] As shown in Figure 1, the footrest 5 is provided with a pair of recesses 5b into which the user's legs can be inserted. On the inner walls of both the left and right recesses 5b, there are posture changing sections 5a (posture changing sections M) for changing the posture of the user's legs. The posture changing sections 5a are made of air cells that expand and contract by supplying and exhausting air. More specifically, there is one posture changing section 5a on the inner surface of each of the left and right side walls, and one on each of the sides of the central wall. It is preferable that each posture changing section 5a is configured to be able to expand and contract independently. This allows for a wider variety of actions when changing the user's posture.

[0053] As shown in Figure 3, the footrest 5 is configured to swing up and down relative to the seat 3 via a pivot axis C2 provided on the front end of the seat 3, allowing it to be changed from a hanging position to an elevated position in which the lower leg is supported with the knee extended. Since the chair 1 in this embodiment is a so-called office chair, the swing angle of the footrest 5 is preferably in the range of 100 to 170 degrees. This is because if the reclining angle of the footrest 5 is set to 90 degrees relative to the seat 3, the seat 3 and the footrest 5 will be at a right angle, making it impossible to support the user's lower legs. Also, if the reclining angle of the footrest 5 is set to 170 degrees or more, the user's lower legs will be almost parallel to the floor, resulting in an uncomfortable posture for the user (similar to a seated forward bend, which compromises seating comfort).

[0054] In this embodiment, the example described is one in which the posture changing sections 3a to 5a are made of air cells, but this is just one example and is not limited to this. Any configuration is acceptable as long as it can change the user's posture. For example, it could be a vibrator, or a mechanically constructed device. It could also be a device that provides electrical stimulation such as EMS.

[0055] [Configuration of the measurement unit] As shown in Figure 4, a measuring unit 40 for measuring the duration of a user's seating is provided near the center of the seat 3. The measuring unit 40 can be any device capable of measuring the duration of a user's seating. For example, it could be a device that activates a timer and starts measuring time when pressure is detected.

[0056] More preferably, the device resets the seating duration during measurement (making the seating duration 0) when pressure is no longer detected (the user leaves chair 1), and when pressure is detected again, the timer activates and time measurement begins. Furthermore, it is preferable that the timing for resetting the seating duration during measurement is when no pressure is detected for a predetermined time (for example, 3 seconds) after pressure is no longer detected. By setting a predetermined time for the reset timing, it is possible to prevent the user from remaining in almost the same posture for a long period of time (a state in which there is not enough change in posture), such as when the user simply sits back down in chair 1.

[0057] Furthermore, the device may interrupt the measurement of the seating duration (stopping the measurement at the moment the user leaves chair 1) when pressure is no longer detected (the user leaves chair 1), and restart the time measurement when pressure is detected again, with the timer activating. For example, if the user leaves chair 1 when the seating duration is 10 minutes, the seating duration is interrupted at 10 minutes. Then, when the user returns to chair 1 (sits down), the measurement of the seating duration is restarted from 10 minutes, and the posture change unit M is driven when it exceeds a predetermined value. In other words, the seating duration may be measured cumulatively.

[0058] In this embodiment, the case in which one measuring unit 40 is provided near the center of the seat 3 is described, but this is just one example and is not limited to this. For example, measuring units 40 may be provided at the four corners of the seat 3. Alternatively, the measuring units 40 may be configured to be elongated, with measuring units 40 extending in the front-to-back direction provided in pairs on the left and right sides of the seat 3, or they may be oriented differently and provided in pairs in the front-to-back direction. By utilizing the measuring units 40, the posture changing unit M can be driven according to the user's seating time, thereby changing the user's posture.

[0059] [Detection Unit Configuration] As shown in Figure 4, detection units 30 for detecting the load received from the user are provided on the upper surface of the seat 3 and the front surface of the backrest 4. The detection unit 30 is a pressure-sensitive sensor made of a thin sheet-like material. By configuring the detection unit 30 as a pressure-sensitive sensor, it is possible to detect the distribution of the load received from the user using the chair 1 (the load received by the seat 3 and the load received by the backrest 4). In this embodiment, the detection unit 30 is described as being configured with a pressure sensor, but this is just one example and is not limited to this. Any sensor capable of detecting the distribution of the load received from the user may be used. By using the detection unit 30, the posture changing unit M can be driven according to the distribution of the load received from the user, thereby changing the user's posture.

[0060] The content of the posture change program P is modified according to the distribution of the load received from the user. For example, the way the load on the seat 3 (the load received by the seat 3 from the user) is applied differs depending on whether the user sits with their weight shifted to the right or to the left. If the weight is shifted to the right, more load is applied to the right side of the seat 3, and if the weight is shifted to the left, more load is applied to the left side of the seat 3.

[0061] Therefore, even with the same posture change program P (for example, posture change program P7), by reflecting the distribution of the load received from the user, if a user sits with their weight shifted to the right side, the posture change program P7a can be changed to one that focuses on changing the posture of the right side of the body. Similarly, if a user sits with their weight shifted to the left side, the posture change program P7b can be changed to one that focuses on changing the posture of the left side of the body. In other words, a posture change program P tailored to the individual user can be executed.

[0062] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram showing an operation unit 50 according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 6 is a diagram showing the screen 50a of the operation unit 50 according to one embodiment of the present invention, where (a) is a diagram showing the seating duration, (b) is a diagram showing the screen 50a for setting a predetermined value, and (c) is a diagram showing the screen 50a while the schedule mode is being executed. Figure 7 is a diagram showing the screen 50a of the operation unit 50 according to one embodiment of the present invention, where (a) is a diagram showing the state in which the user is being authenticated, (b) is a diagram showing the state in which authentication is completed, and (c) is a diagram showing the screen while the schedule mode is being executed.

[0063] [Configuration of the control panel] The control unit 50 can select a mode and authenticate the user via the authentication unit 70. It can also input an action schedule S and select the operation of any posture change unit M. The action schedule S is configured to be changeable by operating the control unit 50. As shown in Figure 5, the control unit 50 consists of a touch panel screen 50a, buttons 50b displayed on the screen 50a (in Figure 5, a button 50b for selecting a mode (normal mode NM / scheduled mode SM) is shown), and physical buttons located below the screen 50a (power button 51, button 52 for changing the angle of the backrest 4 and footrest 5). The user can control the operation of the chair 1 (the operation of the posture changing unit M) by operating the touch panel screen 50a and the physical buttons.

[0064] A voice output unit 53 is provided to the right of the physical button. The content output from the voice output unit 53 can be anything. For example, it may be a message informing the user that the posture change unit M will be activated, such as "The posture change unit will now be activated. Please relax," or a message such as "In 5 minutes, 30 minutes will have passed since you sat down. Have you been in the same position for a long time? Stand up from your chair and stretch," or preferably information about the user's posture (content that encourages the user to change their posture). Furthermore, it is also possible to output something other than sound. For example, music may be output by connecting to the electronic communication terminal 100. By outputting music from the sound output unit 53, it is possible to improve the mood of the user using the chair 1.

[0065] Furthermore, the control unit 50 may be an electronic communication terminal 100 independent of the chair 1. An example of an electronic communication terminal 100 is a smartphone or tablet device owned by the user. By configuring the control unit 50 as an electronic communication terminal 100 independent of the chair 1, it becomes unnecessary to provide the control unit 50 on the chair 1. In other words, the cost of manufacturing the chair 1 can be reduced. In addition, the activity schedule S can be entered even when the user is away from the chair 1 (not sitting on the chair 1).

[0066] For example, the user installs (downloads) a dedicated app on their smartphone or tablet and inputs (modifies) the activity schedule S through the dedicated app. The electronic communication terminal 100 transmits the input (modified) activity schedule S to the chair 1 (stores it in the storage unit 20) via a communication unit (not shown) provided in the electronic communication terminal 100. The activity schedule S transmitted from the electronic communication terminal 100 is received by the communication unit 60 of the chair 1 and stored in the storage unit 20. By doing so, the control unit 7 can control the driving of the attitude change unit M in schedule mode SM based on the action schedule S input by the electronic communication terminal 100. Schedule mode SM will be described later.

[0067] [Configuration of the authentication section] An authentication unit 70 for identifying the user of chair 1 is provided at the top of screen 50a. The authentication unit 70 is for identifying the user. Any configuration that can identify the user is acceptable. Note that user authentication is performed only when schedule mode SM is selected. In this embodiment, we will explain using the case where a camera is used as the authentication unit 70. The camera is located in the center and above the operation unit 50. When the user turns on the power to the chair 1 (power ON) and presses the authentication start button (not shown) displayed on the screen 50a, the screen 50a changes and the camera is activated.

[0068] When screen 50a switches (from the screen in Figure 5 to the screen in Figure 7(a)), the text "Please bring your face closer to the camera" is displayed on screen 50a. Below the text, a frame 50c is displayed showing the image captured by the camera. Within frame 50c, an outline 50d is displayed to help align the user's face. The user adjusts their position by moving their face forward, backward, left, and right to match the outline 50d displayed on screen 50a, and their authentication is performed. Once authentication is complete, as shown in Figure 7(b), the text "Authentication complete. Applying activity schedule. Please wait." is displayed on screen 50a. The control unit 7 can reflect the user's activity schedule S in the schedule mode SM of the chair 1 used by the user, based on the authentication result from the authentication unit 70. Further details will be described later.

[0069] Once the action schedule has been updated, screen 50a switches again (from the screen in Figure 7(b) to the screen in Figure 7(c)). While Schedule Mode SM is running, the screen shown in Figure 7(c) will be displayed on screen 50a of the operation unit 50. This allows the user to know the status of the posture change unit M's operation (which posture change unit M is currently operating). Note that the screen displayed during Schedule Mode is just an example and is not limited to this. For example, as shown in Figure 6(a), a screen that informs the user of the remaining seating time may be displayed. Alternatively, as shown in Figure 6(b), a screen that shows how many minutes remain until the posture change unit M is activated may be displayed. Any screen may be displayed as long as it allows the user to know that Schedule Mode SM is running.

[0070] In this embodiment, an authentication method using the user's face was described as an example, but this is just one example and is not limited to this. For example, the user may be identified by using the user's biometric information, such as fingerprints or vein patterns. Alternatively, the touch panel screen 50a itself may be used as the authentication unit 70. For example, a method using a user ID and password is possible. A screen (not shown) for entering the user's ID and password is displayed on the screen 50a, and the user is authenticated when the ID and password match.

[0071] Figure 8 is a diagram showing an action schedule S according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 9 is a diagram showing the state in which an action schedule S according to one embodiment of the present invention is entered. Figure 10 is a diagram showing the state in which the entered action schedule S is reflected according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 11 is a diagram showing attribute information according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 12 is a flowchart showing one embodiment of the invention.

[0072] [Structure of the action schedule] As shown in Figure 8, the activity schedule S refers to the user's schedule for that day (for example, a time schedule such as arriving at the office at 9:00, an online meeting at 10:00, and a visitor at 11:00) as well as the user's schedule for the next day, next week, and so on. The activity schedule S is displayed in chronological order from top to bottom on screen 50a. The activity schedule S may also be displayed on screen 50a of the operation unit 50 while schedule mode SM is running. For example, it may be displayed instead of as shown in Figure 7(c). This allows the user using chair 1 to easily grasp their own activity schedule S.

[0073] Furthermore, when displaying the activity schedule S on the screen 50a of the operation unit 50 while the schedule mode SM is running, the corresponding time slot may be highlighted according to the current time. For example, if the current time is between 11:00 and 12:00, the corresponding time slot and the activity schedule S (visitor) for that time slot will be displayed highlighted (shown with diagonal lines in Figure 8). Alternatively, instead of highlighting, an arrow icon may be displayed in the corresponding time slot. For example, if the current time is between 11:00 and 12:00, an arrow will be displayed to the right of the corresponding time slot and the activity schedule S (visitor) for that time slot. By doing so, when the user looks at screen 50a, they can easily grasp the current or upcoming action schedule S at a glance. Note that the method of displaying the action schedule S is just one example and is not limited to this. For example, it may be displayed chronologically from left to right.

[0074] The activity schedule S includes attribute information. As shown in Figure 11, attribute information refers to information about the user. For example, it includes information about the user's status, such as the user's job title (department head, section chief, etc.) and the user's job duties (accounting staff, human resources staff, etc.). In addition, each item that makes up the activity schedule S, so-called time schedule information, is also included in the attribute information. For example, desk work, online meetings, visitors, breaks, meetings, going out (visiting clients), etc. By doing so, the drive of the posture change unit M can be controlled according to the user's attribute information. In other words, by using attribute information to control the drive of the posture change unit M, a posture change program P tailored to that individual can be executed.

[0075] Information regarding the user's status is reflected in the content of the posture change program P. For example, if the user's job title (e.g., department head) is included, there is a high probability that the user is elderly. It is assumed that many elderly people have less physical stiffness than younger people. Therefore, even with the same posture change program P (e.g., posture change program P5), by reflecting information regarding the user's status (job title: department head), it is possible to change from posture change program P5a, which is designed for younger people, to a softer posture change program P5b, which is designed for older people. In other words, a posture change program P tailored to the individual user can be implemented.

[0076] Furthermore, if the information pertains to the user's job (e.g., accounting), it is likely that the work involves tasks requiring concentration, as it deals with money. Compared to other desk jobs such as general affairs or human resources, it is expected to be more mentally demanding. Therefore, even with the same posture change program P (e.g., posture change program P6), by reflecting information about the user's status (job: accounting), it is possible to change to a posture change program P6b that provides a stronger physical sensation than the posture change program P6a designed for desk workers. In other words, a posture change program P tailored to the individual user can be implemented.

[0077] The action schedule S can be input (changed) by operating the operation unit 50. The input of the action schedule S will be explained with reference to Figure 9. Figure 9 is an image of the action schedule S displayed on the screen 50a of the operation unit 50. As shown in Figure 9, before entering the activity schedule S, the format displayed shows blank fields for each time slot (only the time is displayed). In this embodiment, time is divided into 1-hour units, but this is just one example and is not limited to this. For example, time could be divided into 15-minute or 30-minute units, or the user could be allowed to freely set the unit of division.

[0078] By selecting a blank field, you can input the activity schedule S. For example, let's explain how to directly input the activity schedule S. When you select a blank field in the format displayed on screen 50a, a keyboard screen (not shown) will appear. The user operates the keyboard screen (not shown) to directly input each item (for example, selecting the 9 o'clock field and entering "Arrive at work," or selecting the 11 o'clock field and entering "Visitor," etc.). In this way, the activity schedule S can be entered.

[0079] Additionally, users can input their action schedule S by selecting pre-stored items. For example, selecting a blank field in the format displayed on screen 50a will display pre-stored items on screen 50a (in a speech bubble to the right of the blank field). The user then operates screen 50a to input each item (for example, selecting the 9 o'clock field and selecting "Arrive at work," or selecting the 11 o'clock field and selecting "Visitor"). In this way, the action schedule S can be entered.

[0080] Figure 10 shows the state reflecting the input action schedule S according to one embodiment of the present invention. The action schedule S shown on the left is the action schedule S that was planned in advance. The action schedule S shown on the right is the action schedule S that was planned in advance but changed on the day. As shown in Figure 10, the memory unit 20 stores the action schedule S that has been previously entered by the operation unit 50 (see the action schedule S on the left). For example, the action schedule S that was planned in advance may be changed on the day, such as when a visitor is canceled. In this case, if the action schedule S is changed to the latest version by operating the operation unit 50 or the electronic communication terminal 100, the changes will be automatically reflected and overwritten in the memory unit 20 as the latest action schedule S. In this way, the action schedule S can be kept up-to-date.

[0081] Figure 12 is a flowchart illustrating one embodiment of the invention. Based on Figure 12, a series of processes from power ON (S-1) to power OFF (S-15) (normal mode NM, schedule mode SM) will be explained. Power ON means turning on the power to the chair 1 by pressing the power button 51 of the control unit 50. As shown in Figure 12, the user seated in chair 1 operates the control unit 50 to turn on the power to chair 1 (power ON, S-1). When the power is turned on, a screen for selecting a mode (see Figure 5) is displayed on the screen 50a of the control unit 50 (S-2). If the user selects normal mode NM, the system switches to normal mode NM (proceeds to S-3). If the user selects schedule mode SM, the system switches to schedule mode SM (proceeds to S-7).

[0082] When the user selects normal mode NM (S-3), a screen for selecting the posture changing unit M to be driven (the screen in Figure 7(c)) is displayed. The user selects the posture changing unit M they want to drive from the image of chair 1 displayed on the screen (S-4). The selected posture changing unit M is highlighted (shown with diagonal lines in Figure 7(c)). The control unit 7 controls the driving of the posture changing unit M selected in S-4 (S-5). Then, after a predetermined time (for example, 15 minutes) has elapsed, normal mode NM ends and the power to chair 1 is turned OFF (S-15).

[0083] When the user selects schedule mode SM (S-7), a screen for user authentication (see Figure 7(a)) is displayed on the screen 50a of the control unit 50, and user authentication is performed. At this time, it is also possible to use chair 1 without user authentication (if NO is selected). For example, if it is the first time using chair 1, authentication cannot be performed because the user information has not been registered. If user authentication is not performed, the process proceeds to schedule input (modification) (proceeds to S-10).

[0084] Once user authentication is complete (if YES), the user's information is reflected (S-9). In other words, the previously entered activity schedule S is reflected. After that, a screen for entering (changing) the schedule is displayed (S-10). Alternatively, the system may be configured so that the measurement of seated duration begins after the user's information (activity schedule S) is reflected (proceeding to S-11). Alternatively, before using chair 1, the user may pre-enter (modify) the action schedule S using the electronic communication terminal 100. Doing so allows the user to omit S-10.

[0085] Once the user completes the input (or modification) of the schedule, the measurement of the sitting duration begins (S-11). In other words, at this time, the posture change program P is linked to drive the posture change unit M according to the activity schedule S. For example, let's explain using the case where 30 minutes is set as the predetermined value and the activity schedule S is set to "10:00-12:00: Desk work".

[0086] The user, who had been away from chair 1, sits down in chair 1 and begins desk work at 10:00. The measurement unit 40 then starts measuring the duration of sitting, starting from the moment the user sits down in chair 1 (10:00). If 30 minutes have passed without the user leaving chair 1 (duration of sitting), the control unit 7 determines that the duration of sitting has exceeded a predetermined value (30 minutes). It then activates the posture change program P to change the user's posture.

[0087] If the seating duration does not exceed a predetermined value, the measurement of the seating duration continues until it exceeds the predetermined value (if NO in S-13). When the seating duration exceeds a predetermined value (if YES in S-13), the posture changing unit M is driven (S-14). The seating duration may be reset when the posture changing unit M is driven, or it may be measured continuously without being reset. If measurement is continued, the timing after the posture changing unit M is driven will be used as the starting point for counting a predetermined value.

[0088] Furthermore, the load distribution can also be used to drive the posture changing unit M. For example, the detection unit 30 may detect the load distribution received from the user in conjunction with the timing of measuring the seating duration (S-12). By using the detected load distribution to control the driving of the posture changing unit M, it is possible to drive the posture changing unit M corresponding to the part (location) where the load is greater (S-14). In other words, it is possible to focus on the areas under load and change the user's posture. Then, the power is turned off when all the reflected action schedules S are completed (S-15).

[0089] In this embodiment, the explanation is given using the case where an action schedule S is entered as an example, but the posture change unit M may be configured to operate even when an action schedule S is not entered. In other words, a posture change program P11 corresponding to the case when an action schedule S is not entered may be stored. When an action schedule S is not entered, it means that items such as "desk work" or "going out" are not entered in the action schedule S (the fields corresponding to times such as 9 o'clock or 10 o'clock are left blank).

[0090] The posture change program P11, for example, uses the duration of sitting as a trigger to drive the posture change unit M. A predetermined value (e.g., 15 minutes) is set in advance, and the program is configured to drive the posture change unit M when 15 minutes have passed. Alternatively, the posture change program P11 may be configured to utilize the load distribution. This allows the operation of the posture change program P11 to be modified based on the load distribution, thereby changing which posture change unit M is driven. [Industrial applicability]

[0091] This invention can be applied to a chair that allows the user's posture to be changed according to the user's situation (condition) at that time. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0092] Chair 1 Seat 3 Control Unit 7 Memory section 20 Posture change section M Normal Mode NM Action Schedule S Schedule Mode SM

Claims

1. A chair having at least a seat, The aforementioned chair, A posture adjustment unit for changing the user's posture, A control unit that controls the drive of the attitude changing unit, It has a memory unit that stores the user's activity schedule, The chair is characterized in that the control unit has a normal mode in which the posture changing unit is driven based on the user's operation, and a scheduled mode in which the posture changing unit is driven based on an action schedule stored in the memory unit.

2. It has an operating unit for inputting the aforementioned action schedule, The chair according to claim 1, characterized in that the aforementioned action schedule can be changed by operating the control unit.

3. The aforementioned operating unit is an electronic communication terminal independent of the chair, The chair has a communication unit for communicating with the electronic communication terminal via a communication network. The chair according to claim 2, characterized in that the control unit controls the driving of the posture changing unit in the schedule mode based on the action schedule input by the electronic communication terminal.

4. It has a measuring unit that measures the duration of the user's seating on the seat, The chair according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the control unit controls the driving of the posture changing unit in the schedule mode based on the seating duration measured by the measurement unit.

5. The chair according to claim 4, characterized in that the control unit controls the drive of the posture changing unit when the seating duration exceeds a predetermined value in the schedule mode.

6. The chair according to claim 5, characterized in that the predetermined value can be set by operating the control unit.

7. The aforementioned seat portion has a detection unit for detecting load, The detection unit can detect the distribution of load received from the user seated on the seat. The chair according to claim 4, characterized in that the control unit controls the drive of the posture change unit in the schedule mode based on the load distribution detected by the detection unit.

8. It further has an authentication unit to identify the user, The chair according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the aforementioned action schedule is reflected in the schedule mode of the chair used by the user based on the authentication result by the authentication unit.

9. The aforementioned action schedule includes attribute information, The aforementioned attribute information includes one of the following: meeting, visitor, position, job duties, or desk work. The chair according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the control unit controls the driving of the posture changing unit based on the attribute information.

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