Interior systems, seats and vehicle interior components

Abstract

To enhance entertainment properties of an interior member.SOLUTION: An interior system (seat system 1) comprises an interior member (seat 10) and a control unit. The interior member has a first portion P1, a second portion P2 capable of catching an object between itself and the first portion P1, electric devices (air cells 21 and 22) that press at least one of the first portion P1 and the second portion P2 against the other, and sensors (pressure sensors 31 and 32) that detect the object placed between the first portion P1 and the second portion P2. The control unit controls the electric devices on the basis of information from the sensors. The control unit, when determining that, in the state of the electric devices being not activated, the object is present between the first portion P1 and the second portion P2 on the basis of the information from the sensors, activates the electric devices so as to press at least one of the first portion P1 and the second portion P2 against the other.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an interior system, a seat, and an interior member for a vehicle.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, an apparatus that estimates the seating posture of a seated person by mounting a pressure sensor or the like on a seat, which is an interior member of a vehicle, is known (Patent Document 1).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] By the way, since the conventional seat is only used to evaluate the seating posture of the driver, there is a problem that it lacks entertainment performance.

[0005] Therefore, an object of the present invention is to enhance the entertainment performance of the interior member.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] To solve the above problems, an interior system according to the present invention includes an interior member and a control unit. The interior member has a first part, a second part capable of sandwiching an object between the first part, an electric device that presses at least one of the first part and the second part toward the other part, and a sensor that detects an object between the first part and the second part. The control unit controls the electric device based on the information from the sensor. When the control unit determines that there is an object between the first part and the second part based on the information from the sensor in a state where the electric device is not operating, the control unit operates the electric device so as to press at least one of the first part and the second part against the other part.

[0007] According to this configuration, when an object is placed between the first part and the second part, the control unit operates the electric device and the object is compressed between the first part and the second part. For example, when the user puts a finger between the first part and the second part, the user can be made to feel as if the finger has been bitten by someone, or the user's belongings such as a smartphone can be held between the first part and the second part. Therefore, the entertainment performance of the interior member can be enhanced.

[0008] Further, the interior system further includes a display unit capable of displaying an animal character, and the control unit may operate the electric device in accordance with the movement of the mouth of the character displayed on the display unit.

[0009] According to this configuration, for example, while the user is looking at the character displayed on the display unit and puts a finger between the first part and the second part, the user can be made to feel as if the finger has been bitten by the character.

[0010] Further, the sensor is a pressure sensor that detects the pressure between the first part and the second part, and the control unit may change the operation pattern of the electric device according to the magnitude of the pressure acquired from the pressure sensor.

[0011] According to this configuration, for example, when the pressure changes according to the movement of the user's finger placed between the first part and the second part, the operation pattern of the electric device is changed according to the magnitude of the pressure, so that the entertainment performance can be enhanced.

[0012] Further, the sensor is a biological information detection sensor that detects biological information, and the control unit may change the operation pattern of the electric device according to the biological information acquired from the biological information detection sensor.

[0013] According to this configuration, since the operation pattern of the electric device is changed according to biological information such as pulse and body temperature, the entertainment property can be enhanced.

[0014] Also, the seat according to the present invention includes a pad and a skin covering the pad. The pad has a first part, a second part adjacent to the first part, and a groove formed between the first part and the second part for suspending the skin. The seat further includes an electric device that presses at least one of the first part and the second part toward the other.

[0015] According to this configuration, for example, when the user puts a finger into the suspension groove of the seat and activates the electric device, the user can be made to feel as if the finger has been bitten by someone, so that the entertainment property of the seat as an interior member can be enhanced.

[0016] Also, the seat according to the present invention includes a seat cushion and a seat back. The seat cushion has a first part. The seat back has a second part facing the first part. The seat further includes an electric device that presses at least one of the first part and the second part toward the other.

[0017] According to this configuration, for example, when the user puts a finger between the first part of the seat cushion and the second part of the seat back and activates the electric device, the user can be made to feel as if the finger has been bitten by someone, so that the entertainment property of the seat as an interior member can be enhanced.

[0018] Further, the seat according to the present invention includes a headrest and a seat back. The headrest has a first part. The seat back has a second part facing the first part. The seat further includes an electric device that presses at least one of the first part and the second part against the other.

[0019] According to this configuration, for example, when a user puts a finger between the first part of the headrest and the second part of the seat back, by operating the electric device, the user can be made to feel as if the finger has been bitten by someone, so that the entertainment performance of the seat as an interior member can be enhanced.

[0020] In addition, the vehicle interior member according to the present invention includes a first part, a second part capable of sandwiching an object between the first part, and an electric device that presses at least one of the first part and the second part against the other.

[0021] According to this configuration, for example, when a user puts a finger between the first part and the second part, by operating the electric device, the user can be made to feel as if the finger has been bitten by someone, so that the entertainment performance of the vehicle interior member can be enhanced.

[0022] Further, at least one of the first part and the second part may have a sensor that detects an object between the first part and the second part in a state where the electric device is not operating.

[0023] According to this configuration, for example, the electric device can be operated on the condition that the sensor detects an object, so that the electric device can be operated and stopped according to the insertion and removal of the object between the first part and the second part.

[0024] Further, the sensor may be a pressure sensor that detects the pressure between the first part and the second part.

[0025] Alternatively, the sensor may be a capacitance sensor that detects an object based on a change in capacitance when the object enters an electric field.

[0026] Alternatively, the sensor may be a resistive film type touch sensor.

[0027] Further, at least one of the first part and the second part may have a heater.

[0028] According to this configuration, for example, by setting the temperature of the heater to a temperature corresponding to the body temperature of the animal, the user can be made to feel as if the animal has bitten their finger.

[0029] Furthermore, the vehicle interior member may include a unit having a first part, a second part, and an electric device, and a base part to which the unit is detachable.

[0030] According to this configuration, the replacement operation of the unit for sandwiching the object can be facilitated.

Advantages of the Invention

[0031] According to the present invention, when an object is placed between the first part and the second part, the control unit operates the electric device to compress the object between the first part and the second part, so that the entertainment property of the interior member can be enhanced.

[0032] In addition, when a finger is placed between the first part and the second part, the control unit operates the electric device in accordance with the movement of the mouth of the character displayed on the display unit, so that the user can be made to feel as if the finger is being bitten by the character.

[0033] Moreover, the control unit can change the operation pattern of the electric device according to the magnitude of the pressure between the first part and the second part, thereby enhancing the entertainment property.

[0034] In addition, by changing the operation pattern of the electric device according to biological information such as pulse and body temperature, the entertainment property can be enhanced.

[0035] In addition, by having at least one of the first part and the second part be equipped with a sensor that detects a finger between the first part and the second part, the electric device can be activated and stopped according to the insertion and removal of an object between the first part and the second part.

[0036] In addition, by having at least one of the first part and the second part be equipped with a heater, for example, if the temperature of the heater is set to a temperature corresponding to the body temperature of the animal, the user can be made to feel as if the animal has bitten their finger.

[0037] In addition, by making the unit having the first part, the second part, and the electric device detachable from the base part, the replacement operation of the unit can be facilitated.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0038]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Figure 7

Figure 8

Figure 9

Figure 10

Figure 11

Figure 12

Figure 13

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0039] [First Embodiment] Hereinafter, a first embodiment of a seat system as an example of an interior system will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. As shown in FIG. 1, the seat system 1 includes a seat 10 as an example of an interior member, a monitor M as an example of a display unit, and a control unit 100. The seat 10 includes a seat cushion 11, a seat back 12, and a headrest 13. The seat cushion 11, the seat back 12, and the headrest 13 constitute a seat body on which a user can sit. The seat cushion 11, the seat back 12, and the headrest 13 each have a seating surface F that contacts the seated user.

[0040] The seat cushion 11 has a base portion 11A disposed at the left and right center and overhanging portions 11B disposed on both outer sides of the base portion 11A. The base portion 11A contacts and supports the user's buttocks and thighs from below. The overhanging portion 11B protrudes from the base portion 11A toward the user to support the sides of the user's thighs and buttocks.

[0041] Similarly, the seat back 12 also has a base portion 12A disposed at the left and right center and overhanging portions 12B disposed on both outer sides of the base portion 12A. The base portion 12A contacts the user's back and supports the back from behind. The overhanging portion 12B protrudes toward the user to support the sides of the user's upper body.

[0042] As shown in FIG. 2(a), the seat cushion 11 includes a frame FL, a pad P, and a skin SK. The frame FL is made of metal or the like and supports the pad P. The pad P is made of a cushion material such as urethane foam. The skin SK is made of synthetic leather, fabric, or the like and covers the pad P. Note that the seat back 12 and the headrest 13 also include a frame, a pad, and a skin in the same manner.

[0043] The pad P of the seat cushion 11 has a first part P1 and a second part P2. The first part P1 is located at the left - right ends of the base part 11A.

[0044] The second part P2 is located at the left - right inner ends of the projecting part 11B. The second part P2 is adjacent to the first part P1 in the left - right direction.

[0045] A groove G for suspending the skin SK is formed between the first part P1 and the second part P2. The second part P2 can sandwich an object between it and the first part P1.

[0046] The seat cushion 11 further includes a first air cell 21 and a second air cell 22 as examples of electric devices, a first pressure sensor 31 and a second pressure sensor 32 as examples of sensors, and a first heater 41 and a second heater 42.

[0047] The first air cell 21 includes an expandable and contractible bag 21A, a pump (not shown), and a tube. The pump has a function of sending air into the bag 21A or sucking air out of the bag 21A and operates when energized. The tube connects the bag 21A and the pump.

[0048] The bag 21A is embedded in the pad P. Note that the pump is fixed to the frame of the seat 10, for example.

[0049] The second air cell 22 has substantially the same structure as the first air cell 21 and includes a bag 22A, a pump, and a tube.

[0050] The bag 21A of the first air cell 21 is located within the base portion 11A. The bag 21A of the first air cell 21 is located inside the first part P1 in the left - right direction. In other words, the first part P1 is located between the bag 21A of the first air cell 21 and the second part P2. Thereby, the first air cell 21 can press the first part P1 toward the second part P2 (see Fig. 2(b)).

[0051] The bag 22A of the second air cell 22 is located within the protruding portion 11B. The bag 22A of the second air cell 22 is located outside the second part P2 in the left - right direction. In other words, the second part P2 is located between the first part P1 and the bag 22A of the second air cell 22. Thereby, the second air cell 22 can press the second part P2 toward the first part P1 (see Fig. 2(b)).

[0052] The first pressure sensor 31 and the second pressure sensor 32 are sensors that detect an object between the first part P1 and the second part P2. The first pressure sensor 31 and the second pressure sensor 32 detect the pressure between the first part P1 and the second part P2.

[0053] The first pressure sensor 31 is located within the first part P1, and the second pressure sensor 32 is located within the second part P2. In other words, the first part P1 has the first pressure sensor 31, and the second part P2 has the second pressure sensor 32.

[0054] The first heater 41 and the second heater 42 are heaters that heat the space between the first part P1 and the second part P2. The first heater 41 is located within the first part P1, and the second heater 42 is located within the second part P2. In other words, the first part P1 has the first heater 41, and the second part P2 has the second heater 42.

[0055] Specifically, the first heater 41 is located between the bag 21A of the first air cell 21 and the first pressure sensor 31. The second heater 42 is located between the bag 22A of the second air cell 22 and the second pressure sensor 32.

[0056] Returning to FIG. 1, the sheet 10 further includes a mode changeover switch SW. The mode changeover switch SW is a switch for switching the mode of the control unit 100 between a first mode and a second mode. The mode changeover switch SW is, for example, a push-button type switch. Each time the mode changeover switch SW is pressed by the user, it alternates between an ON state and an OFF state.

[0057] The control unit 100 is configured to include, for example, a CPU, a RAM, a ROM, an input / output circuit, etc. The control unit 100 may be provided on the sheet 10 or on a member other than the sheet 10.

[0058] As shown in FIG. 3, the control unit 100 is connected to the monitor M, the pressure sensors 31, 32, the mode changeover switch SW, the air cells 21, 22, and the heaters 41, 42. The monitor M can display a dog character as shown in FIG. 5.

[0059] The control unit 100 controls the air cells 21, 22 based on information from the pressure sensors 31, 32. Specifically, when the control unit 100 determines based on information from the pressure sensors 31, 32 that there is an object between the first part P1 and the second part P2 in a state where the air cells 21, 22 are not operating, the control unit 100 operates the air cells 21, 22 so as to press the first part P1 toward the second part P2 and press the second part P2 toward the first part P1.

[0060] The control unit 100 can be switched between a first mode and a second mode by the mode changeover switch SW. The first mode is a mode in which the air cells 21, 22 do not operate even when the user inserts a finger between the first part P1 and the second part P2. In the following description, the first mode is also referred to as the "normal mode".

[0061] In the second mode, when the user inserts a finger between the first part P1 and the second part P2, in accordance with the video shown on the screen M1 of the monitor M in FIG. 6 where the dog bites the human finger, by operating each air cell 21, 22, it is possible to make the user feel as if the finger is gently bitten by the dog. In the following description, the second mode is also referred to as the "gentle bite mode". In the gentle bite mode, the control unit 100 operates the air cells 21, 22 in accordance with the movement of the mouth of the character displayed on the monitor M.

[0062] Next, the operation of the control unit 100 will be described in detail. The control unit 100 repeatedly executes the process shown in FIG. 4. In the process shown in FIG. 4, the control unit 100 first determines whether the mode change switch SW is ON (S1). If it is determined in step S1 that the mode change switch SW is not ON (No), the control unit 100 sets the mode to the first mode, that is, the normal mode (S2), and ends this process.

[0063] If it is determined in step S1 that the mode change switch SW is ON (Yes), the control unit 100 sets the mode to the second mode, that is, the gentle bite mode (S3), and displays the home screen shown in FIG. 5 on the screen M1 (S4). After step S4, the control unit 100 determines whether the mode change switch SW is ON (S5).

[0064] If it is determined in step S5 that the mode change switch SW is ON (Yes), the control unit 100 determines whether at least one of the two pressure sensors 31, 32 has turned ON (S6). Here, the pressure sensor turning ON means that the pressure value detected by the pressure sensor has become equal to or greater than the first threshold value. If it is determined in step S5 that the mode change switch SW is not ON (No), the control unit 100 proceeds to the process of step S2.

[0065] When it is determined in step S6 that at least one of the pressure sensors 31 and 32 is ON (Yes), as shown in FIG. 6, the control unit 100 displays an image of the dog biting its finger on the screen M1 (S7). After step S7, the control unit 100 turns on the heaters 41 and 42 (S8). Specifically, in step S8, the control unit 100 may control the heaters 41 and 42 so that the temperature between the first part P1 and the second part P2 becomes close to the dog's body temperature. In this case, for example, a temperature sensor for detecting the temperature between the first part P1 and the second part P2 may be provided on the sheet 10, and the control unit 100 may control the heaters 41 and 42 so that the temperature acquired from the temperature sensor becomes the target temperature.

[0066] After step S8, the control unit 100 displays a video of the dog moving its mouth to gently bite its finger on the screen M1 (S9). After step S9, the control unit 100 activates the air cells 21 and 22 in accordance with the movement of the dog's mouth on the screen M1 (S10). Specifically, when the dog's mouth on the screen M1 moves in the closing direction, the control unit 100 controls the pumps of the respective air cells 21 and 22 so that the bags 21A and 22A expand, and when the dog's mouth on the screen M1 moves in the opening direction, the bags 21A and 22A deflate.

[0067] After step S10, the control unit 100 determines whether the mode switch SW is ON (S11). When it is determined in step S11 that the mode switch SW is ON (Yes), the control unit 100 returns to the process of step S6.

[0068] When it is determined in step S11 that the mode switch SW is not ON (No), the control unit 100 stops the heaters 41 and 42 and the air cells 21 and 22 (S12), and proceeds to the process of step S2. When it is determined in step S6 that neither of the pressure sensors 31 and 32 is ON (No), the control unit 100 stops the heaters 41 and 42 and the air cells 21 and 22 (S13), and returns to the process of step S4. When stopping the air cells 21 and 22 in steps S12 and S13, the control unit 100 stops driving the pump after deflating the bags 21A and 22A the most.

[0069] Next, a specific example of the operation of the control unit 100 will be described. As shown in FIG. 1, when the user sitting on the seat 10 turns on the mode changeover switch SW, the control unit 100 starts the gentle biting mode and displays the home screen shown in FIG. 5 on the screen M1 of the monitor M (S1: Yes → S3 → S4). In the home screen, for example, a message or diagram prompting the user to perform an operation, such as "Please insert your finger into the hanging groove on the right side.", may be displayed.

[0070] As shown in FIG. 2(b), during the gentle biting mode, when the user inserts a finger into the groove G, the first part P1 and the second part P2 are pushed outward to the left and right, and the pressure sensors 31, 32 are turned on. When inserting the finger into the groove G, since the air cells 21, 22 are not yet operating, the pressure sensors 31, 32 detect the finger between the first part P1 and the second part P2 in a state where the air cells 21, 22 are not operating.

[0071] When the control unit 100 determines that a finger has entered the groove due to the pressure sensors 31, 32 being turned on, it turns on the heaters 41, 42, displays a video of a dog gently biting a finger as shown in FIG. 6 on the screen M1 of the monitor M, and operates the air cells 21, 22 in accordance with the movement of the dog's mouth on the screen M1 (S6: Yes → S7~S10).

[0072] When the user removes the finger from the groove, the pressure sensors 31, 32 turn off (the pressure value becomes less than the first threshold value), so the control unit 100 stops the heaters 41, 42 and the air cells 21, 22 and returns the display on the screen M1 to the home screen (S6: No → S13 → S4).

[0073] During the gentle biting mode, when the user turns off the mode changeover switch SW, the control unit 100 determines No in step S5 or step S11 and returns the mode to the normal mode (S2).

[0074] As described above, according to the present embodiment, the following effects can be obtained. When a finger is inserted between the first part P1 and the second part P2, the control unit 100 activates the air cells 21 and 22, and the finger is pressed between the first part P1 and the second part P2, so that the entertainment property of the seat 10 can be enhanced.

[0075] Since the air cells 21 and 22 operate in accordance with the movement of the mouth of the dog displayed on the monitor M, it is possible to make the user feel as if the finger is being bitten by the dog, and the user can be healed.

[0076] Since the air cells 21 and 22 operate on the condition that the pressure sensors 31 and 32 detect a finger, the air cells 21 and 22 can be activated and stopped in accordance with the insertion and removal of the finger between the first part P1 and the second part P2.

[0077] Since the temperature in the groove G can be made equal to the body temperature of the dog by the heaters 41 and 42, it is possible to make the user really feel that the finger is being bitten by the dog.

[0078] Note that the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and can be used in various forms as exemplified below. In the following description, members having substantially the same structure as those in the above-described embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof is omitted.

[0079] The first part and the second part capable of sandwiching an object are not limited to the part forming the hanging groove as in the above-described embodiment. For example, as shown in FIG. 7, the first part P11 may be a part of the pad P of the seat cushion 11, and the second part P12 facing the first part P11 may be a part of the pad P of the seat back 12. In this case, the seat cushion 11 may have the first part P11 and also have the first air cell 21, the first pressure sensor 31, and the first heater 41 described above. Further, the seat back 12 may have the second part P12 and also have the second air cell 22, the second pressure sensor 32, and the second heater 42 described above.

[0080] Even in this form, when the user inserts a finger between the first part P11 of the seat cushion 11 and the second part P12 of the seat back 12, the air cells 21 and 22 can be activated to make the user feel as if the finger has been gently bitten by a dog, thus enhancing the entertainment value of the seat 10.

[0081] Also, for example, the first part P21 may be a part of the pad P of the headrest 13, and the second part P22 facing the first part P21 may be a part of the pad P of the seat back 12. In this case, the headrest 13 may have, in addition to the first part P21, the aforementioned first air cell 21, the first pressure sensor 31, and the first heater 41. Also, the seat back 12 may have, in addition to the second part P22, the aforementioned second air cell 22, the second pressure sensor 32, and the second heater 42.

[0082] Even in this form, when the user inserts a finger between the first part P21 of the headrest 13 and the second part P22 of the seat back 12, the air cells 21 and 22 can be activated to make the user feel as if the finger has been gently bitten by a dog, thus enhancing the entertainment value of the seat 10.

[0083] The display unit is not limited to the monitor M. For example, it may be a projection device 50 as shown in FIG. 7. As shown in FIG. 8, the projection device 50 projects an image of a dog character on the surface of the seat 10. In this case, the image of the dog's face may be projected across the headrest 13 and the seat back 12 such that the dog's mouth projected from the projection device 50 onto the surface of the seat 10 is located between the first part P21 and the second part P22. In this form, similar to the above-described embodiment, when the air cells 21 and 22 are activated in accordance with the movement of the dog's mouth projected on the surface of the seat 10, the user can more realistically feel that the finger is being gently bitten by the dog.

[0084] The unit for sandwiching an object only needs to have at least a first part, a second part, and an electric device, and the sensor and the heater may not be provided. When there is no sensor, the electric device may be activated by the user operating an operating member (for example, the activation switch of the electric device).

[0085] As shown in FIG. 9, the seat having the unit may be an interior member for a vehicle that constitutes the interior of the vehicle. In this case, the seat having the unit may be the first-row seat 10A, the second-row seat 10B, or the third-row seat 10C. The groove between the first part and the second part can be arranged, for example, on the seating surface indicated by dots on the seats 10A to 10C.

[0086] The unit may be provided on an interior member for a vehicle other than the seat. Examples of the interior member for a vehicle on which the unit is provided include the vehicle floor 61, the dashboard 62, the inner panel 63 of the door or the vehicle side wall, the roof 64, the lid 65 for opening and closing the sunroof, etc. Note that the groove between the first part and the second part can be arranged, for example, on the surface indicated by dots in the figure. Also, the interior member for a vehicle may be a steering wheel, a console, an instrument panel, etc.

[0087] As shown in FIG. 10, the first part P1 may have a first plate member 71 that is harder than the skin SK. Also, the second part P2 may have a second plate member 72 that is harder than the skin SK.

[0088] The first plate member 71 is located between the groove G and the first pressure sensor 31. The second plate member 72 is located between the groove G and the second pressure sensor 32. Each of the plate members 71, 72 has a surface facing the groove G, and the upper and lower ends are bent in a direction away from the groove G.

[0089] Note that the first part and the second part are not limited to a part of the pad, and may be, for example, a part of the plate members 71 and 72 or a part of the bag of the air cell described above. When the first part and the second part are a part of the plate member or the bag of the air cell, since they are harder than the skin of the seat, it becomes easier for the user to feel the pressing force. Note that the hard member harder than the skin of the seat may be curved or may be a flat plate member.

[0090] The first part or the second part may have an electrostatic elimination pad that comes into contact with an object inserted between the first part and the second part. In this case, for example, when a finger is inserted between the first part and the second part, static electricity can be removed from the finger. Also, the first part or the second part may have an abrasive material that comes into contact with an object inserted between the first part and the second part. In this case, for example, when a finger is inserted between the first part and the second part, the nails can be filed with the abrasive material.

[0091] As shown in FIG. 11, the unit U for sandwiching an object may be provided on the headrest 13 or may be provided on the seat back 12. When the unit U is provided on the headrest 13, the groove G may open, for example, from the left and right side surfaces of the headrest 13. When the unit U is provided on the seat back 12, the groove G may open, for example, from the back surface of the seat back 12.

[0092] Note that the unit may be provided at the front end portion, the lower surface of the front end portion, or the side surface of the front end portion of the seat or the door armrest. The unit may be provided at the overhanging portion of the seat, the groove portion of the seat back, or the back surface of the headrest.

[0093] As shown in FIGS. 12(a) and (b), a plurality of sensors 81 to 84 may be provided for one part (for example, the second part P2). The sensors 81 to 84 are sensors that detect an object that has entered the groove G and are, for example, pressure sensors.

[0094] In this case, the control unit may change the operation pattern of the air cell 22 based on the information from each of the sensors 81 to 84. Specifically, for example, the first threshold value for determining that an object has entered between the first part P1 and the second part P2 may be set to different values for each of the sensors 81 to 84. The control unit determines for each of the sensors 81 to 84 whether the pressure value has become equal to or greater than the first threshold value, and depending on the number and location of the sensors for which the pressure value has become equal to or greater than the first threshold value, the number of times of sandwiching the object between the first part P1 and the second part P2, or the sandwiching time from when the pressure on the object becomes maximum to when it becomes minimum may be changed.

[0095] For example, when the control unit determines that the pressure values have become equal to or greater than the first threshold value in the first sensor 81 and the third sensor 83, the number of times of sandwiching is set to a predetermined number, and the sandwiching time is made longer than in other cases. In this control, the control unit may slow down the sandwiching speed compared to other cases. Further, when the control unit determines that the pressure values have become equal to or greater than the first threshold value in the second sensor 82 and the third sensor 83, the control unit may alternately perform strong nip control in which the maximum value of the pressure applied to the object becomes the first maximum value and weak nip control in which the maximum value of the pressure applied to the object becomes a second maximum value smaller than the first maximum value.

[0096] As shown in FIG. 13, the seat cushion 11 may include a unit U having a first part P1, a second part P2, and air cells 21 and 22 (bags 21A and 22A), and a base part B1 to which the unit U is detachable. In this case, for example, the inner panel IP of the door D may have a base part B2 to which the unit U is detachable. The base parts B1 and B2 may each have recesses B11 and B21 into which the unit U can be fitted.

[0097] In this structure, it is sufficient that the tubes of each air cell 21, 22 are arranged in the unit U and the base parts B1, B2, and the tubes on the unit U side and the tubes on the base parts B1, B2 side are detachable via joints. Further, when the unit U has a sensor, it is sufficient that the wiring connecting the sensor and the control unit is arranged in the unit U and the base parts B1, B2, and the wiring on the unit U side and the wiring on the base parts B1, B2 side are detachable via connectors. Further, the unit U may or may not have the skin SK.

[0098] According to this configuration, since the unit U can be replaced between the seat 10 and the door D, for example, when having a user's possession such as a smartphone SP held by the unit U, the possession can be moved together with the unit U and arranged at a preferred position. Further, the user can also arrange the unit U at a preferred position and enjoy the gum-chewing mode. Further, since the unit U is detachable from the base parts B1, B2, the replacement work of the unit can be facilitated.

[0099] Note that the unit detachable from the base part may include a first part, a second part, a sensor, an electric device, a control unit, and a battery. According to this configuration, the unit can be removed from the base part and used alone. Further, in this case, a contact-type or non-contact charger for charging the battery of the unit may be provided in the base part.

[0100] The electric device may be any device that can press one of the first part and the second part against the other, and may be, for example, a link mechanism, a cylinder, a solenoid, a cam rotated by a motor, or the like. Further, the electric device may have a structure such as a vise that sandwiches both the first part and the second part.

[0101] The display unit may be a smartphone, a tablet terminal, a head-mounted display used for virtual reality, a monitor of a car navigation system, etc. Further, the display unit may be a panel that displays a speedometer, etc. as an image, or a device that displays an image on a window such as a windshield, or a projection device incorporated in a headlight that displays an image on a road surface.

[0102] The control unit may change the operation pattern of the electric device according to the magnitude of the pressure acquired from the pressure sensor. For example, when the pressure acquired from the pressure sensor is smaller than the second threshold value, the control unit sets the maximum pressure applied by the electric device to an object as the first pressure value, and when it is equal to or greater than the second threshold value, the control unit sets the maximum pressure applied by the electric device to an object as a second pressure value greater than the first pressure value. Here, the second threshold value is greater than the first threshold value for determining that an object has entered between the first part and the second part. Note that the second pressure value may be a value smaller than the first pressure value.

[0103] According to this configuration, when the pressure changes in response to the movement of the user's finger placed between the first part and the second part, the operation pattern of the electric device is changed according to the magnitude of the pressure, so the entertainment performance can be enhanced.

[0104] Further, the sensor may be a capacitance sensor that detects an object based on a change in capacitance when the object enters an electric field, or a resistive film type touch sensor.

[0105] Further, the sensor may be a biological information detection sensor that detects biological information. In this case, the control unit may change the operation pattern of the electric device according to the biological information acquired from the biological information detection sensor.

[0106] Examples of biological information include information such as pulse wave, blood oxygen concentration, heart rate, blood pressure, blood sugar level, pulse, body temperature, and sweat. For example, the control unit may acquire the pulse rate from a biological information detection sensor, and the higher the acquired pulse rate, the lower the maximum pressure applied by the electric device to the object, or conversely, the maximum pressure may be increased.

[0107] According to this configuration, since the operation pattern of the electric device is changed according to biological information such as pulse and body temperature, the entertainment property can be enhanced.

[0108] The interior member is not limited to a vehicle interior member that constitutes the interior of a vehicle, and may be, for example, an interior member that constitutes the interior of a room. The vehicle interior member is not limited to a vehicle interior member for a vehicle, and may be, for example, an interior member for other vehicles such as a ship or an aircraft.

[0109] The determination as to whether there is an object between the first part and the second part may be made that there is an object between the first part and the second part when the condition of detecting the object with the sensor and the condition that the electric device is OFF are satisfied.

[0110] The character may be a character other than an animal, a human, a fictional creature, an anime character, or the like.

[0111] In the above embodiment, one electric device, one sensor, and one heater are provided for each of the first part and the second part. However, the electric device, the sensor, and the heater may be provided only for one of the members of the first part and the second part. Further, the electric device, the sensor, and the heater may be arbitrarily distributed and installed in the first part and the second part. For example, the electric device may be installed in the first part, and the sensor and the heater may be installed in the second part.

[0112] The projection device may be attached to the ceiling, door, center console, or seat of the vehicle. The operation pattern of the electric device may be changed according to the intimacy between the vehicle occupant and the character displayed on the display unit, the carefulness of driving, and the like. For example, the operation pattern may be changed so that the pressure between the first part and the second part becomes lower as the intimacy increases. Also, the operation pattern may be changed so that the pressure between the first part and the second part becomes lower as the driving becomes more careful. The intimacy may be set larger as the number of executions of the gentle biting mode increases. The carefulness of driving may be set to increase as the operation speed of at least one operation member of the accelerator operation, the brake operation, and the steering operation becomes lower.

[0113] In the above embodiment, the side surfaces of the groove between the first part and the second part into which the object can enter are in close contact with each other, but the side surfaces of the groove between the first part and the second part may be separated. That is, there may be a gap between the two surfaces for sandwiching the object. In this case, the maximum value of the distance between the two surfaces is preferably 2 cm or less. According to this, small objects such as a smartphone or a finger can be appropriately sandwiched between the two surfaces.

[0114] The depth of the groove between the first part and the second part may be such that the first joint or the second joint of the finger can enter.

[0115] The sensor may function as an operation input unit for operating the device. That is, the control unit may operate the device based on the information from the sensor. The device may be an electric reclining mechanism for tilting the seat back, an electric slide mechanism for moving the seat in the front-rear or left-right direction, a display unit, or the like.

[0116] The control unit may operate the voice output unit (headrest speaker, in-vehicle audio, etc.) in accordance with the operation of the electric device. For example, a voice such as "munch munch" may be output in accordance with the operation of pinching a finger between the first part and the second part.

[0117] The interior system or interior member may be provided with a fingerprint authentication unit. In this case, for example, the control unit determines whether the user is registered for fingerprint authentication based on the information from the fingerprint authentication unit, and when it is determined that the user is a registered user, allows the pinching control for pinching an object between the first part and the second part, and when it is determined that the user is not a registered user, may prohibit the pinching control. Note that the fingerprint registration may be performed, for example, from the screen of a navigation system, a smartphone, or the like.

[0118] The number of times of pinching control (for example, the number of times of increasing and then decreasing the pressure between the first part and the second part) may be memorized, and the action of the character displayed on the display unit may be changed according to the number of times. For example, the more the number of times increases, the more the display of the cat's belly being full is made, and at the same time, the pressure between the first part and the second part may become stronger.

[0119] As a method for manufacturing the interior system, for example, the following method can be mentioned. An interior member having a first part, a second part capable of pinching an object between the first part, and an electric device for pressing at least one of the first part and the second part against the other, and a sensor for detecting an object between the first part and the second part, and a control unit for controlling the electric device based on the information from the sensor, wherein the control unit, when it is determined based on the information from the sensor that there is an object between the first part and the second part in a state where the electric device is not operating, operates the electric device so as to press at least one of the first part and the second part against the other. A method for manufacturing an interior system, comprising a step of attaching the electric device corresponding to at least one of the first part and the second part, a step of attaching the sensor at a position where the object can be detected, and a step of connecting the electric device and the sensor to the control unit.

[0120] As a method for manufacturing the seat, for example, the following method can be mentioned. A sheet comprising a pad and a skin covering the pad, wherein the pad has a first portion, a second portion adjacent to the first portion, and a groove formed between the first portion and the second portion for suspending the skin, and further comprising an electric device for pressing at least one of the first portion and the second portion against the other, the method for manufacturing the sheet comprising the step of disposing the electric device within the pad such that the electric device is disposed at a position corresponding to at least one of the first portion and the second portion.

[0121] When the suspension groove is formed between a base portion disposed at the center in the left - right direction and an overhanging portion disposed outside the base portion in the left - right direction and overhanging toward the user side from the base portion, in the method for manufacturing the sheet, the electric device may be disposed within the base portion or the overhanging portion.

[0122] Each element described in the above - mentioned embodiments and modifications may be implemented in any combination.

Explanation of Reference Numerals

[0123] 1 Sheet system 10 Sheet 21 First air cell 22 Second air cell 31 First pressure sensor 32 Second pressure sensor 100 Control unit P1 First portion P2 Second portion

Claims

1. A seat having a first part, a second part capable of sandwiching an object between the first part, an electric device for pressing at least one of the first part and the second part toward the other, and a sensor for detecting an object between the first part and the second part; A display unit capable of displaying an animal character; A control unit for controlling the electric device based on information from the sensor, wherein when the control unit determines that there is an object between the first part and the second part based on information from the sensor in a state where the electric device is not operating, the control unit operates the electric device to press at least one of the first part and the second part toward the other in accordance with the movement of the mouth of the character displayed on the display unit. The interior system is characterized by this.

2. The sensor is a pressure sensor that detects the pressure between the first part and the second part, The control unit, The interior system according to claim 1, characterized in that the control unit changes the operation pattern of the electric device according to the magnitude of the pressure acquired from the pressure sensor.

3. The sensor is a biological information detection sensor that detects biological information, The interior system according to claim 1, characterized in that the control unit changes the operation pattern of the electric device according to the biological information acquired from the biological information detection sensor.

4. The seat is A pad, An epidermis covering the pad, and is provided with The pad is The first part and the second part, The interior system according to claim 1, characterized in that it has a groove for suspending the epidermis formed between the first part and the second part.

5. The seat is A seat cushion, A seat back, and is provided with The seat cushion has the first part, The interior system according to claim 1, characterized in that the seat back has the second part.

6. The seat is A headrest, A seat back, and is provided with The headrest has the first part, The interior system according to claim 1, characterized in that the seat back has the second part.

7. The interior system according to claim 1, characterized in that the sensor is a capacitance sensor that detects an object by a change in capacitance when the object enters an electric field.

8. The interior system according to claim 1, wherein the sensor is a touch sensor of a resistive film type.

9. The interior system according to claim 1, wherein at least one of the first part and the second part has a heater.

10. The seat comprises a unit having the first part, the second part, and the electric device, and a base part to which the unit is detachable, and is characterized by the above, according to claim 1 of the interior system described.

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