seat system

Abstract

To provide a seat system which can notify a body weight of a user seated on a seat.SOLUTION: A seat system 1 includes: a seat 10; a weight sensor 40 configured to detect a weight of a user seated on the seat 10; an electric device (an electric slide mechanism 30) which moves at least a part of the seat 10; an operation part (a slide switch 62) for operating the electric device; and a control unit 100. The control unit 100 performs device operation limiting processing, in which an operation of the electric device is stopped for a predetermined time period based on the weight obtained from the weight sensor 40 to limit the operation of the electric device, when receiving an operation command from the operation part.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a seat system including a seat and a control unit.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, a vehicle seat control device that moves a seat between a boarding and alighting position that projects outward from a door opening to the outside of the vehicle and a storage position that is stored inside the vehicle is known (see Patent Document 1). In this technology, the boarding and alighting performance of the vehicle is improved by increasing the distance between the door and the boarding and alighting position as the weight of the passenger increases.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, in the prior art, it has not been possible to notify the occupant sitting on the seat of the weight of the occupant.

[0005] Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a seat system capable of notifying the weight of a user sitting on the seat.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] To solve the above problems, a seat system according to the present invention includes a seat, a weight sensor that detects the weight of a user sitting on the seat, an electric device that moves at least a part of the seat, an operation unit for operating the electric device, and a control unit. When the control unit receives an operation command from the operation unit, it executes a device operation restriction process for restricting the operation of the electric device by stopping the operation of the electric device for a predetermined time based on the weight acquired from the weight sensor.

[0007] According to this configuration, when the user operates the operation unit to move at least a part of the seat (hereinafter also referred to as the "movable part"), by restricting the operation of the electric device based on the weight of the user, the movement of the movable part becomes awkward. Therefore, the user can know their approximate weight from the awkwardness of the movement of the movable part. That is, the seat system can notify the user of their weight by executing the device operation restriction process. Also, by restricting the movement of the movable part according to the user's weight, the entertainment value can be enhanced.

[0008] Further, in the device operation restriction process, the control unit may change the ratio of the stop time of the electric device per predetermined time based on the weight acquired from the weight sensor.

[0009] According to this configuration, for example, the larger the weight acquired from the weight sensor, the larger the ratio of the stop time is set. Thus, the larger the user's weight, the more difficult it is for the movable part to move, and the user can experience their weight through the movement of the movable part.

[0010] Also, in the device operation restriction process, the control unit may set the standby time from when an operation command is received from the operation unit until the operation of the electric device starts based on the weight acquired from the weight sensor.

[0011] According to this configuration, for example, the larger the weight acquired from the weight sensor, the longer the standby time is set. Thus, for a person with a larger weight, the time from when they operate until the movable part starts to move is longer, and the user can experience their weight from the length of the waiting time.

[0012] Furthermore, the seat system further includes a display unit, and the control unit can display characters on the display unit. When executing the device operation restriction process, the control unit may move the characters with a movement corresponding to the operation of the electric device.

[0013] According to this configuration, since the character moves in accordance with the operation of the electric device, the user can understand the reason why the movable part is difficult to move, so the user can enjoyably grasp their own weight.

[0014] Further, the control unit may change the character based on the operation history of the user's operation unit.

[0015] According to this configuration, since the character is changed based on the operation history, the user can enjoyably operate the seat.

[0016] Further, the control unit may change the ratio of the stop time per predetermined time based on the operation history of the operation unit.

[0017] According to this configuration, for example, the more the number of operations of the operation unit as the operation history, the smaller the ratio of the stop time, so that the more the user operates, the smoother the movement of the movable part becomes, so that the user can feel as if the seat is growing, and the entertainment property can be enhanced.

[0018] Further, the seat has a vibration device, and the control unit may operate the vibration device when the weight acquired from the weight sensor exceeds a predetermined threshold value in the device operation restriction process.

[0019] According to this configuration, when the user's weight is above a certain level, the vibration device operates, so the effect of notifying the weight is enhanced.

[0020] Further, the seat includes at least one of a speaker, an air conditioner, lighting, and a heater, and the control unit may interlock the operation of at least one of the speaker, the air conditioner, the lighting, and the heater with the movement of the character in the device operation restriction process.

[0021] According to this configuration, for example, by operating the air conditioner in conjunction with the action of a character breathing, the user can feel the wind from the air conditioner as the character's breath, enhancing the entertainment value.

[0022] Further, when the control unit predicts a vehicle collision based on information from a collision detection unit provided in the vehicle, it may not execute the device operation restriction process.

[0023] According to this configuration, when there is a possibility of a vehicle collision, the device operation restriction process is not executed, so safety can be improved.

Advantages of the Invention

[0024] According to the present invention, by restricting the operation of the electric device based on the user's weight, the movement of the movable part becomes awkward, and the user can be notified of their weight due to the awkwardness of the movement of the movable part. Also, by restricting the movement of the movable part according to the user's weight, the entertainment value can be enhanced.

[0025] Further, by configuring to change the ratio of the stop time of the electric device per predetermined time based on the weight obtained from the weight sensor, for example, the user can experience their own weight through the movement of the movable part.

[0026] Also, by configuring to set the standby time from when an operation command is received from the operation unit until the operation of the electric device starts based on the weight obtained from the weight sensor, for example, the user can experience their own weight through the length of the waiting time.

[0027] Further, by configuring to move a character with a movement corresponding to the operation of the electric device, the user can understand the reason why the movable part is difficult to move, so the user can enjoyably grasp their own weight.

[0028] In addition, by adopting a configuration in which a character is changed based on the operation history of the user's operation unit, the user can enjoy operating the seat.

[0029] In addition, by adopting a configuration in which the ratio of the stop time per predetermined time is changed based on the operation history of the operation unit, for example, the entertainment property can be enhanced.

[0030] In addition, by adopting a configuration in which the vibration device is operated when the weight acquired from the weight sensor exceeds a predetermined threshold value, the effect of notifying the body weight is enhanced.

[0031] In addition, by adopting a configuration in which at least one of the operations of the speaker, the air conditioner, the lighting, and the heater is interlocked with the movement of the character, for example, the entertainment property can be enhanced.

[0032] In addition, by adopting a configuration in which the device operation restriction process is not executed when there is a possibility of a vehicle collision, the safety can be improved.

Brief Description of Drawings

[0033]

Figure 1

Figure 2

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Figure 8

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Figure 10

Figure 11

Figure 12

Figure 13

Modes for Carrying Out the Invention

[0034] [First Embodiment] Hereinafter, the first embodiment of the seat system will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. As shown in FIG. 1, the seat system 1 includes a seat 10, a camera C as an example of a collision detection unit, a monitor M as an example of a display unit, and a control unit 100. The seat 10, the monitor M, and the camera C are arranged at positions facing the inside of the vehicle, specifically, the passenger compartment. In this embodiment, the seat 10 is the driver's seat or the passenger seat.

[0035] 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 each constitute a seat body having a seating surface F. The seating surface F is a surface that contacts the user sitting on the seat 10 and supports the user.

[0036] The seat cushion 11, the seat back 12, and the headrest 13 each have a metal frame that constitutes the skeleton, a pad that covers the frame, and a skin that covers the pad. The pad is made of urethane foam or the like. The skin is made of synthetic leather, fabric, or the like.

[0037] The seat cushion 11 has a base portion 11A disposed at the left - right center and projecting portions 11B disposed on both outer sides of the base portion 11A. The base portion 11A has a seating surface F that contacts and supports the user's buttocks and thighs from below. The projecting portions 11B project toward the user from the seating surface F of the base portion 11A to support the sides of the user's thighs and buttocks.

[0038] Similarly, the seat back 12 also has a base portion 12A disposed at the left - right center and projecting portions 12B disposed on both outer sides of the base portion 12A. The base portion 12A has a seating surface F that contacts the user's back and supports the back from behind. The projecting portions 12B project toward the user from the seating surface F of the base portion 12A to support the sides of the user's upper body.

[0039] The seat 10 further includes an electric reclining mechanism 21, a plurality of vibration devices 23, an electric slide mechanism 30, a weight sensor 40, and a plurality of speakers 50. The electric reclining mechanism 21 is an electric device that tilts the seat back 12, which is a part of the seat 10, back and forth. The electric reclining mechanism 21 includes a motor that operates when energized.

[0040] The vibration device 23 is an electric device that reciprocates only a part of the surface of the seat 10 by vibrating when energized. A plurality of, for example, four vibration devices 23 are provided on the base portion 12A of the seat back 12. The vibration device 23 is, for example, embedded in the pad.

[0041] The electric slide mechanism 30 is an electric device that slides the seat 10 in the front-rear direction. Here, the seat 10 is supported on a slide rail (not shown) so as to be movable in the front-rear direction. The electric slide mechanism 30 includes a motor that operates when energized.

[0042] The weight sensor 40 is a sensor that detects the weight of a user sitting on the seat 10. The weight sensor 40 is, for example, a pressure sensor that detects pressure from the user. The weight sensor 40 is located, for example, between the skin and the pad.

[0043] Note that the slide rail is composed of an upper rail and a lower rail, and the weight sensor may be located between the slide rail and the side frame of the seat cushion 11. In particular, the weight sensor may be fixed to the upper surface of the upper rail, and the link mechanism that connects the side frame and the slide rail may be connected to the weight sensor so that the weight sensor detects the load applied to the seat.

[0044] The speaker 50 is a device that generates sound when energized. The speakers 50 are provided one on each side of the upper part of the seat back 12. The speakers 50 are provided one on each side of the headrest 13. The speaker 50 is, for example, embedded in the pad.

[0045] The seat 10 further includes a reclining switch 61, a slide switch 62, and a mode changeover switch 63.

[0046] The reclining switch 61 is an operation unit for operating the electric reclining mechanism 21. The reclining switch 61 is, for example, tiltable in the front-rear direction. When the reclining switch 61 is tilted forward, it outputs a forward tilt command for tilting the seat back 12 forward to the control unit 100. When the reclining switch 61 is tilted backward, it outputs a backward tilt command for tilting the seat back 12 backward to the control unit 100.

[0047] The slide switch 62 is an operation unit for operating the electric slide mechanism 30. The slide switch 62 is slidable, for example, in the front-rear direction. When the slide switch 62 is slid forward, it outputs a forward movement command for moving the seat 10 forward to the control unit 100. When the slide switch 62 is slid rearward, it outputs a backward movement command for moving the seat 10 backward to the control unit 100.

[0048] The mode changeover switch 63 is a switch for switching the mode of the control unit 100 between a first mode and a second mode. Here, the first mode is a mode in which a device operation suppression process described later can be executed. The second mode is a mode in which the device operation suppression process is not executed. The mode changeover switch 63 is, for example, a push-button type switch. Each time the mode changeover switch 63 is pressed by the user, it alternates between an ON state and an OFF state. In the present embodiment, the mode is set to the second mode when the mode changeover switch 63 is in the OFF state, and the mode is set to the first mode when the mode changeover switch 63 is in the ON state.

[0049] The monitor M has a screen M1 (see FIG. 3) for displaying an image. The image displayed on the monitor M can be changed by the control unit 100. The monitor M can be arranged on the dashboard so as to be located, for example, below the rearview mirror.

[0050] The camera C is a camera for photographing the front of the vehicle. The camera C is provided, for example, on the ceiling of the vehicle. The image information photographed by the camera C is output to the control unit 100.

[0051] The control unit 100 is configured to include, for example, a CPU, a RAM, a ROM, an input / output circuit, and the like. The control unit 100 may be provided on the seat 10 or on a member other than the seat 10.

[0052] The control unit 100 is connected to the monitor M, various switches (61 to 63), the electric reclining mechanism 21, each vibration device 23, the electric slide mechanism 30, the weight sensor 40, and each speaker 50. The control unit 100 can individually operate each vibration device 23 and each speaker 50.

[0053] When the control unit 100 receives an operation command from the slide switch 62, it has a function of executing a device operation restriction process that restricts the operation of the electric slide mechanism 30 by stopping the operation of the electric slide mechanism 30 for a predetermined time based on the weight acquired from the weight sensor 40. Here, the operation command from the slide switch 62 means either the forward command or the backward command described above.

[0054] Specifically, as shown in Fig. 2(a), in the first mode, when the control unit 100 receives an operation command from the slide switch 62, it selects and executes either normal processing, first restriction processing, or second restriction processing based on the weight acquired from the weight sensor 40. Here, the first restriction processing and the second restriction processing are device operation restriction processes. In the following description, the weight acquired from the weight sensor 40 is also simply referred to as "the user's body weight W".

[0055] Specifically, when the user's body weight W is equal to or less than the first threshold TH1, the control unit 100 executes the normal processing shown in Fig. 2(b). In the normal processing, the control unit 100 always operates the electric slide mechanism 30 while receiving an operation command from the slide switch 62. That is, in the normal processing, when the control unit 100 receives an operation command from the slide switch 62, it starts the operation of the electric slide mechanism 30, and then, if the output of the operation command continues for a predetermined time, it continues the operation of the electric slide mechanism 30 without stopping it.

[0056] Further, when the body weight W is greater than the first threshold value TH1 and less than or equal to the second threshold value TH2 (TH1 < TH2), the control unit 100 executes the first restriction process shown in FIG. 2(c). In the first restriction process, the control unit 100 performs standby processing and intermittent operation processing.

[0057] In the standby process, the control unit 100 stops the electric slide mechanism 30 for a first standby time Tw1 from when an operation command is received from the slide switch 62. When the output of the operation command continues after the elapse of the first standby time Tw1, the control unit 100 executes the intermittent operation process. In the intermittent operation process, the control unit 100 periodically operates and stops the electric slide mechanism 30.

[0058] In the intermittent operation process, a first operation time Td1 for permitting the operation of the electric slide mechanism 30 and a first stop time Ts1 for prohibiting the operation of the electric slide mechanism 30 are set for a predetermined cycle T. In this embodiment, the first stop time Ts1 is set after the first operation time Td1, but conversely, the first operation time Td1 may be set after the first stop time Ts1. In the intermittent operation process in the first restriction process, the ratio of the first stop time Ts1 in the predetermined cycle T is set to a first ratio (for example, 1 / 2).

[0059] When the time during which the operation command is output is less than the first standby time Tw1, the control unit 100 keeps the electric slide mechanism 30 stopped from the start to the end of the first restriction process. When the time during which the operation command is output is equal to or greater than the first standby time Tw1 and less than Tw1 + Td1, the control unit 100 stops the electric slide mechanism 30 for the first standby time Tw1 and then operates the electric slide mechanism 30, and stops the electric slide mechanism 30 at the timing when the output of the operation command is stopped.

[0060] When the time during which the operation command is output is equal to or greater than Tw1 + T, the control unit 100 stops the electric slide mechanism 30 for the first standby time Tw1, then operates the electric slide mechanism 30 for the first operation time Td1, and then stops the electric slide mechanism 30 for the first stop time Ts1. Thereafter, until the output of the operation command stops, the control unit 100 repeats the operation and stop of the electric slide mechanism 30 at each cycle T, and stops the electric slide mechanism 30 at the timing when the output of the operation command stops.

[0061] Further, when the body weight W is greater than the second threshold value TH2, the control unit 100 executes the second restriction process shown in FIG. 2(d). The second restriction process has standby processing and intermittent operation processing substantially the same as the first restriction process, but the standby time, operation time, and stop time are set to values different from those in the first restriction process.

[0062] As the standby time in the second restriction process, a second standby time Tw2 longer than the first standby time Tw1 is set. As the operation time in the second restriction process, a second operation time Td2 shorter than the first operation time Td1 is set. As the stop time in the second restriction process, a second stop time Ts2 longer than the first stop time Ts1 is set. That is, in the second restriction process, the ratio of the second stop time Ts2 in a predetermined cycle T is set to a second ratio (for example, 2 / 3) larger than the first ratio in the first restriction process.

[0063] Further, when the body weight W is greater than the second threshold value TH2, the control unit 100 has a function of operating the vibration device 23. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 2(d), the control unit 100 operates the vibration device 23 while stopping the electric slide mechanism 30 in the second restriction process. Note that at least one of the plurality of vibration devices 23 may be operated.

[0064] As shown in FIG. 3(a), the control unit 100 has a function of displaying, on the screen M1 of the monitor M, a sheet image G1 which is an image of a sheet and a cat image G2 which is an image of a cat as an example of a character. When the control unit 100 executes any one of normal processing, first restriction processing, and second restriction processing, it moves the cat image G2 with a movement corresponding to the operation of the electric slide mechanism 30 and interlocks the operation of the speaker 50 with the movement of the cat image G2.

[0065] Specifically, when the control unit 100 executes normal processing, as shown in FIG. 3(a), it displays on the screen M1 a video in which a cat smoothly pushes the sheet in a direction corresponding to an operation command. Also, the control unit 100, in conjunction with the display of the video, as shown in FIG. 3(b), operates the electric slide mechanism 30 without stopping it while an operation command is being output, so as to smoothly move the actual sheet 10 in a direction corresponding to the operation command. When executing normal processing, the control unit 100 may output from the speaker 50 a voice expressing a cat's impression such as "Light nya~".

[0066] When the control unit 100 executes the first restriction processing, as shown in FIG. 4(a), it displays on the screen M1 a video in which a cat sweats and pushes the sheet in a direction corresponding to an operation command, and the sheet repeatedly moves and stops. Also, the control unit 100, in conjunction with the display of the video, as shown in FIG. 4(b), operates and stops the electric slide mechanism 30 based on a first standby time Tw1, a first operation time Td1, and a first stop time Ts1, so as to intermittently move the actual sheet 10 in a direction corresponding to the operation command. When executing the first restriction processing, the control unit 100 may output from the speaker 50 a voice expressing a cat's impression such as "Heavy nya~".

[0067] When the control unit 100 executes the second restriction process, as shown in Fig. 5(a), while the cat is sweating and pushing the seat in the direction corresponding to the operation command, the seat repeatedly moves and stops. While the seat is stopped, the control unit 100 displays on the screen M1 a video in which the cat punches the seat. Further, as shown in Fig. 5(b), the control unit 100 operates and stops the electric slide mechanism 30 and the vibration device 23 based on the second standby time Tw2, the second operation time Td2, and the second stop time Ts2 so as to be linked with the display of the video, thereby intermittently moving the actual seat 10 in the direction corresponding to the operation command and operating the vibration device 23. When executing the second restriction process, the control unit 100 may output from the speaker 50 a voice expressing the cat's impression such as "It's too heavy nya~" or the sound of the cat punching the seat.

[0068] In addition, the control unit 100 has a function of predicting a collision of the vehicle based on the information from the camera C shown in Fig. 1. When the control unit 100 predicts a collision of the vehicle, it has a function of not executing the device operation restriction process. For example, when the control unit 100 predicts a collision of the vehicle in the first mode, it switches the mode to the second mode to not execute the device operation restriction process.

[0069] Next, the operation of the control unit 100 will be described in detail. The control unit 100 repeatedly executes the process shown in Fig. 6. In the process of Fig. 6, the control unit 100 first determines whether the mode change switch 63 is ON (S1). If it is determined in step S1 that the mode change switch 63 is not ON (No), the control unit 100 sets the mode to the second mode (S11) and ends this process.

[0070] If it is determined in step S1 that the mode change switch 63 is ON (Yes), the control unit 100 determines whether there is a possibility of the vehicle colliding based on the information from the camera C (S2). If it is determined in step S2 that there is a possibility of the vehicle colliding (Yes), the control unit 100 sets the mode to the second mode (S11) and ends this process.

[0071] If it is determined in step S2 that there is no possibility of a vehicle collision (No), the control unit 100 sets the mode to the first mode (S3) and determines whether an operation command is output from the slide switch 62 (S4). If it is determined in step S4 that no operation command is output (No), the control unit 100 ends this process.

[0072] If it is determined in step S4 that an operation command is output (Yes), the control unit 100 acquires the user's weight W from the weight sensor 40 (S5). After step S5, the control unit 100 determines whether the weight W is less than or equal to the first threshold TH1 (S6).

[0073] If it is determined in step S6 that W ≤ TH1 (Yes), the control unit 100 activates the electric slide mechanism 30 in normal processing (S7) and displays an image corresponding to the normal processing on the screen M1 (S8). After step S8, the control unit 100 determines whether the output of the operation command continues (S9).

[0074] If it is determined in step S9 that the output of the operation command continues (Yes), the control unit 100 returns to the process of step S7. If it is determined in step S9 that the output of the operation command does not continue (No), the control unit 100 stops the electric slide mechanism 30 if the electric slide mechanism 30 is operating (S10) and ends this process.

[0075] If it is determined in step S6 that W ≤ TH1 is not true (No), the control unit 100 determines whether the weight W is less than or equal to the second threshold TH2 (S12). If it is determined in step S12 that W ≤ TH2 (Yes), the control unit 100 activates and stops the electric slide mechanism 30 in the first limit process (S13) and displays an image corresponding to the first limit process on the screen M1 (S14). After step S14, the control unit 100 determines whether the output of the operation command continues (S15).

[0076] If it is determined in step S15 that the output of the operation command is continuing (Yes), the control unit 100 returns to the process of step S13. If it is determined in step S15 that the output of the operation command is not continuing (No), the control unit 100 stops the electric slide mechanism 30 (S10) and ends this process. In step S10, when the electric slide mechanism 30 is operating, the control unit 100 stops the electric slide mechanism 30, and when the electric slide mechanism 30 is stopped, it does nothing and leaves the electric slide mechanism 30 stopped.

[0077] If it is determined in step S12 that W ≦ TH2 is not satisfied (No), the control unit 100 operates and stops the electric slide mechanism 30 and the vibration device 23 in the second limit process (S16), and displays an image corresponding to the second limit process on the screen M1 (S17). After step S17, the control unit 100 determines whether the output of the operation command is continuing (S18).

[0078] If it is determined in step S18 that the output of the operation command is continuing (Yes), the control unit 100 returns to the process of step S16. If it is determined in step S18 that the output of the operation command is not continuing (No), the control unit 100 stops the vibration device 23 (S19).

[0079] In step S19, when the vibration device 23 is operating, the control unit 100 stops the vibration device 23, and when the vibration device 23 is stopped, it does nothing and leaves the vibration device 23 stopped. After step S19, the control unit 100 stops the electric slide mechanism 30 (S10) and ends this process.

[0080] Next, a specific example of the operation of the control unit 100 will be described. As shown in FIG. 1, when a user with a weight W less than or equal to the first threshold TH1 sits on the seat 10 and slides the slide switch 62 forward, the control unit 100 executes the normal process shown in FIG. 2(b) to operate the electric slide mechanism 30 without stopping while receiving a forward command from the slide switch 62. As a result, as shown in FIG. 3(b), the seat 10 smoothly moves forward.

[0081] Also, in the normal process, as shown in FIG. 3(a), the control unit 100 displays a video in which a cat smoothly pushes the seat forward. Therefore, the user can know that their weight is light from the smooth movement of the seat 10 and the video displayed on the screen M1.

[0082] When a user with a weight W greater than the first threshold TH1 and less than or equal to the second threshold TH2 sits on the seat 10 and slides the slide switch 62 forward, the control unit 100 executes the first restriction process shown in FIG. 2(c) to stop the electric slide mechanism 30 for the first waiting time Tw1 after receiving a forward command from the slide switch 62, and then repeats the operation and stop of the electric slide mechanism 30 at a predetermined cycle T. As a result, as shown in FIG. 4(b), after the seat 10 maintains a stopped state for the first waiting time Tw1, it repeats moving and stopping at a predetermined cycle T.

[0083] Also, at this time, as shown in FIG. 4(a), the control unit 100 alternately displays a video in which the cat sweats because the seat does not move even when the cat pushes the seat and a video in which the cat sweats and pushes the seat and the seat moves forward by a predetermined amount. Therefore, the user can know that their weight is heavy from the awkward movement of the seat 10, the amount of movement of the seat 10 with respect to the operation time of the slide switch 62, and the video displayed on the screen M1.

[0084] When a user with a weight W greater than the second threshold TH2 sits on the seat 10 and slides the slide switch 62 forward, the control unit 100 executes the second restriction process shown in FIG. 2(d). After receiving the forward command from the slide switch 62, the electric slide mechanism 30 is stopped for the second waiting time Tw2, and then the operation and stop of the electric slide mechanism 30 are repeated at a predetermined cycle T. While the seat 10 is stopped, the vibration device 23 is vibrated. As a result, as shown in FIG. 5(b), after the seat 10 maintains a stopped state for the second waiting time Tw2, it repeats moving and stopping at a predetermined cycle T, and the vibration device 23 vibrates while the seat 10 is stopped.

[0085] Also, at this time, as shown in FIG. 5(a), since the seat does not move even when the cat presses the seat, the control unit 100 alternately displays a video of the cat sweating and angrily punching the seat and a video of the cat sweating and pressing the seat and the seat moving forward by a predetermined amount. Therefore, the user can know that their weight is very heavy from the clumsiness of the movement of the seat 10, the amount of movement of the seat 10 with respect to the operation time of the slide switch 62, the vibration by the vibration device 23, and the video displayed on the screen M1. In particular, a user who has experienced the first restriction process in the past can feel that the second restriction process has a longer waiting time and stop time and a shorter moving distance of the seat 10 than the first restriction process, so they can know that their weight is very heavy.

[0086] As described above, according to the present embodiment, the following effects can be obtained. When the user operates the slide switch 62 to move the seat 10, by restricting the operation of the electric slide mechanism 30 based on the user's weight, the operation of the seat 10 becomes clumsy, so that the user can know their approximate weight from the clumsiness of the operation of the seat 10. That is, the seat system 1 can notify the user of their weight by executing the device operation restriction process. Also, by restricting the operation of the seat 10 according to the user's weight, the entertainment value can be enhanced.

[0087] The greater the weight obtained from the weight sensor 40, the greater the ratio of the stop time in the period T. Thus, the greater the user's weight, the more difficult it is for the seat 10 to move, allowing the user to experience their own weight through the movement of the seat 10.

[0088] The greater the weight obtained from the weight sensor 40, the longer the waiting time. Therefore, the greater the weight of the person, the longer the time from when an operation is performed until the seat 10 starts to move, enabling the user to experience their own weight based on the length of the waiting time.

[0089] The cat character moves in a motion corresponding to the operation of the electric slide mechanism 30, enabling the user to understand the reason why the seat 10 is difficult to move, so that the user can grasp their own weight while enjoying themselves.

[0090] When the user's weight is greater than the second threshold value TH2, the vibration device 23 operates, enhancing the effect of notifying the weight.

[0091] When there is a possibility of a vehicle collision, the device operation restriction process is not executed, improving safety.

[0092] [Second Embodiment] Next, the second embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with appropriate reference to the drawings. Since this embodiment changes the operations and screen displays of the control unit 100 according to the above-described first embodiment, the same reference numerals will be given to the components and processes that are substantially the same as those in the first embodiment, and the description thereof will be omitted.

[0093] As shown in FIGS. 7(a) to 7(c), the control unit 100 according to the second embodiment has a function of changing the character of the cat based on the operation history of the user's operation unit. In the present embodiment, the control unit 100 changes the character of the cat to a character with a stronger appearance as the number of operations of the slide switch 62 within a predetermined past time increases. Here, the predetermined past time may be, for example, the time from when the ignition switch for starting the vehicle is turned on to the present (i.e., the time per ride), or may be the time from when the vehicle was new to the present.

[0094] In the present embodiment, when the number of operations N within a predetermined past time is less than the first predetermined value, the control unit 100 displays a kitten as shown in FIG. 7(a) on the screen M1 as a cat at level 1. When the number of operations N within a predetermined past time is equal to or greater than the first predetermined value and less than a second predetermined value greater than the first predetermined value, the control unit 100 displays an adult cat as shown in FIG. 7(b) on the screen M1 as a cat at level 2. When the number of operations N within a predetermined past time is equal to or greater than the second predetermined value, the control unit 100 displays a cat with a muscular build as shown in FIG. 7(c) on the screen M1 as a cat at level 3.

[0095] As shown in FIG. 8, the first predetermined value and the second predetermined value are set according to the user's weight. When the user's weight is light (W ≦ TH1), the first predetermined value is set to "N1" and the second predetermined value is set to "N2".

[0096] When the user's weight is heavy (TH1 < W ≦ TH2), the first predetermined value is set to "N3" and the second predetermined value is set to "N4". When the user's weight is very heavy (TH2 < W), the first predetermined value is set to "N5" and the second predetermined value is set to "N6".

[0097] The relationship of N1 to N6 is set as follows. N1 > N3 > N5 N2 > N4 > N6 By being set in this way, the heavier the person's weight, the fewer the number of operations N within a predetermined past time required for the character level to increase.

[0098] As shown in Fig. 9(a), the control unit 100 according to the second embodiment selects and executes any one of a first limiting process, a second limiting process, and a third limiting process according to the weight of the user. When the weight W of the user is equal to or less than the first threshold value TH1, the control unit 100 executes the first limiting process shown in Fig. 9(b).

[0099] In the first limiting process of the second embodiment, no standby time is set as in the first embodiment, and a first operating time Td3 and a first stop time Ts3 are set for a predetermined period T. The control unit 100 repeats the stop and operation of the electric slide mechanism 30 based on the first operating time Td3 and the first stop time Ts3 set for the predetermined period T.

[0100] In Fig. 9(b), the waveform shown by the solid line is the waveform when the level of the character is level 1. The control unit 100 decreases the ratio of the stop time to the period T as the level of the character increases. In other words, the control unit 100 decreases the ratio of the stop time as the number of operations N within a predetermined past time increases.

[0101] Specifically, when the level of the character is level 2, as shown by the broken line, the control unit 100 increases the ratio of the operating time and decreases the ratio of the stop time compared to when the level is level 1. Here, the waveform of level 2 is a waveform in which the width of the peak of the waveform of the operating time of the solid line is expanded to the position indicated by the broken line.

[0102] When the level of the character is level 3, as shown by the two-dot chain line, the control unit 100 increases the ratio of the operating time and decreases the ratio of the stop time compared to when the level is level 2. Here, the waveform of level 3 is a waveform in which the width of the peak of the waveform of the operating time of the solid line is expanded to the position indicated by the two-dot chain line.

[0103] In this embodiment, when the user's weight W is equal to or less than the first threshold value TH1 and the character level is level 3, the stop time is set to 0. As a result, when the user's weight W is equal to or less than the first threshold value TH1 and the character level is level 3, the control unit 100 performs the same processing as the normal processing of the first embodiment.

[0104] In the second restriction process of the second embodiment, no standby time as in the first embodiment is set, and a second operation time Td4 and a second stop time Ts4 are set for a predetermined cycle T. The second operation time Td4 is shorter than the first operation time Td3, and the second stop time Ts4 is longer than the first stop time Ts3. The control unit 100 repeats the stop and operation of the electric slide mechanism 30 based on the second operation time Td4 and the second stop time Ts4 set for the predetermined cycle T. Also, in the second restriction process, as in the first restriction process, the higher the character level, the smaller the ratio of the stop time to the cycle T. Although the description is omitted, the solid line waveform in the figure corresponds to level 1, the broken line waveform corresponds to level 2, and the two-dot chain line waveform corresponds to level 3.

[0105] In the third restriction process of the second embodiment, no standby time as in the first embodiment is set, and a third operation time Td5 and a third stop time Ts5 are set for a predetermined cycle T. The third operation time Td5 is shorter than the second operation time Td4, and the third stop time Ts5 is longer than the second stop time Ts4. The control unit 100 repeats the stop and operation of the electric slide mechanism 30 based on the third operation time Td5 and the third stop time Ts5 set for the predetermined cycle T. Also, in the third restriction process, as in the first restriction process, the higher the character level, the smaller the ratio of the stop time to the cycle T. Although the description is omitted, the solid line waveform in the figure corresponds to level 1, the broken line waveform corresponds to level 2, and the two-dot chain line waveform corresponds to level 3.

[0106] The control unit 100 executes the process of FIG. 10. The process of FIG. 10 has new steps S31 to S38 in addition to steps S1 to S6, S9 to S12, S15, and S18 of FIG. 6.

[0107] When the control unit 100 determines that there is an operation command in step S4 (Yes), it increments the operation count N (S31). Here, the increment of the operation count N may be performed each time a forward command is acquired and when a backward command is acquired, or may be performed only when a forward command is acquired, or may be performed only when a backward command is acquired.

[0108] After step S31, the control unit 100 acquires the weight W in step S5, and sets the character level based on the weight W, the operation count N, and the map in FIG. 8 (S32). After step S32, the control unit 100 proceeds to the process of step S6.

[0109] If it is determined in step S6 that W≤TH1 (Yes), the control unit 100 operates or stops the electric slide mechanism 30 by the first limit process according to the level (S33). After step S33, the control unit 100 displays an image corresponding to the level and the first limit process on the screen M1 (S34).

[0110] The display in step S34 can be, for example, an image in which the cat in the image of FIG. 4(a) is replaced with a child's cat corresponding to level 1. After step S34, the control unit 100 determines whether the output of the operation command continues (S9). If it continues, the process returns to step S33. If it does not continue, the electric slide mechanism 30 is stopped in step S10.

[0111] If it is determined in step S12 that W≤TH2 (Yes), the control unit 100 operates or stops the electric slide mechanism 30 by the second limit process according to the level (S35). After step S35, the control unit 100 displays an image corresponding to the level and the second limit process on the screen M1 (S36).

[0112] The display in step S36 can be, for example, an image in which the cat in the image of FIG. 4(a) is replaced with an adult cat corresponding to level 2. After step S36, the control unit 100 determines whether the output of the operation command is continuing (S15). If it is continuing, the process returns to step S35. If it is not continuing, the electric slide mechanism 30 is stopped in step S10.

[0113] If it is determined in step S12 that W>TH2 (No), the control unit 100 activates or stops the electric slide mechanism 30 by third restriction processing according to the level (S37). After step S37, the control unit 100 displays an image corresponding to the level and the third restriction processing on the screen M1 (S38).

[0114] The display in step S38 can be, for example, an image in which the cat in the image of FIG. 4(a) is replaced with a muscular and robust cat corresponding to level 3. After step S38, the control unit 100 determines whether the output of the operation command is continuing (S18). If it is continuing, the process returns to step S37. If it is not continuing, the electric slide mechanism 30 is stopped in step S10.

[0115] Next, a specific example of the operation of the control unit 100 will be described. When a user with a light weight (W≤TH1) operates the slide switch 62 and the number of operations within a predetermined past time is small (N<N1), the control unit 100 displays the character of the cat at level 1 shown in FIG. 7(a) on the screen M1. Then, the control unit 100 operates or stops the electric slide mechanism 30 in accordance with the waveform of level 1 shown by the solid line in FIG. 9(a).

[0116] When a user with a light weight (W ≤ TH1) operates the slide switch 62 and the number of operations within a predetermined past time is large (N1 ≤ N < N2), the control unit 100 displays the character of the cat at level 2 shown in FIG. 7(b) on the screen M1, and operates or stops the electric slide mechanism 30 in accordance with the waveform at level 2 shown by the broken line in FIG. 9(a). When a user with a light weight (W ≤ TH1) operates the slide switch 62 and the number of operations within a predetermined past time is extremely large (N2 ≤ N), the control unit 100 displays the character of the cat at level 3 shown in FIG. 7(c) on the screen M1, and operates the electric slide mechanism 30 in accordance with the waveform at level 3 shown by the two-dot chain line in FIG. 9(a).

[0117] As a result, the user can know that the cat grows as the number of operations increases, and can feel that the movement of the seat 10 becomes smoother as the grown cat presses the seat, so that the entertainment property can be enhanced.

[0118] When a user with a heavy weight (TH1 < W) operates the slide switch 62, the level of the character increases with a smaller number of operations than when a user with a light weight (W ≤ TH1) operates the slide switch 62. Therefore, for example, when a light-weight user who has experienced the first mode in the past sees a heavy-weight user executing the first mode, the user can know that the character grows faster than himself / herself, and can observe that the reason for the faster growth is that the heavy-weight user is carrying the cat, so that the entertainment property can be enhanced.

[0119] As described above, according to the second embodiment, the following effects can be obtained. Since the character is changed based on the operation history, the user can enjoy operating the seat 10.

[0120] The more the slide switch 62 is operated, the smaller the ratio of the stop time becomes, so that the movement of the seat 10 becomes smoother as the user operates it. As a result, the user can feel as if the seat 10 is growing, and the entertainment value can be enhanced.

[0121] In addition, in the second embodiment, the movement of the seat image may also be displayed as if it is moving greatly in accordance with the growth of the character.

[0122] As shown in FIG. 11, the seat 10 may include an ottoman 14 that supports the user's calves, an ottoman operating device 15 that rotates the ottoman 14, and an ottoman switch 16 for operating the ottoman operating device 15. In this case, when the control unit 100 receives an operation command from the ottoman switch 16, the control unit 100 may execute a device operation restriction process for restricting the operation of the ottoman operating device 15 by stopping the operation of the ottoman operating device 15 for a predetermined time based on the weight acquired from the weight sensor 40. That is, in this embodiment, the ottoman operating device 15 corresponds to an electric device, and the ottoman switch 16 corresponds to an operation unit.

[0123] As shown in FIG. 12, the seat system 301 may include a first air conditioner 310 and a second air conditioner 320. The first air conditioner 310 is provided in the vehicle and discharges the temperature-adjusted air into the vehicle from an air outlet 331 disposed on the dashboard 330.

[0124] The second air conditioner 320 is provided, for example, in the seat cushion 11 of the seat 10. The second air conditioner 320 causes air to flow through a passage formed in the pad of the seat cushion 11 and supplies the air to the user through holes in the skin of the seat cushion 11.

[0125] As shown in FIG. 13(b), when the control unit 100 activates the electric slide mechanism 30 in the first restriction process (step S13 in FIG. 6), the first air conditioner 310 and the second air conditioner 320 are also activated. Further, as shown in FIG. 13(a), when the control unit 100 displays an image corresponding to the first restriction process on the screen M1 (step S13 in FIG. 6), the control unit 100 also displays an action of a cat exhaling breath. Further, the wind flowing from the front side of the seat toward the seat and the wind flowing upward from the seat cushion are displayed by an arrow-shaped image.

[0126] By activating the first air conditioner 310 and the second air conditioner 320 in conjunction with the action of the cat exhaling breath on the screen M1, the user can feel the wind from the first air conditioner 310 and the second air conditioner 320 as the breath of the cat, thereby enhancing the entertainment value.

[0127] In the device operation interlock process, the devices interlocked with the movement of the character are not limited to the air conditioner, and may be lighting or a heater. The devices interlocked with the movement of the character may be at least one of a speaker, an air conditioner, lighting, and a heater, and may be plural. Further, the speaker, the air conditioner, the lighting, and the heater may be provided on the seat or on members other than the seat.

[0128] When the weight W is greater than the second threshold value TH2, the control unit 100 may display an action of the character tensing up and exhaling breath on the screen M1, and increase the air volume of the air conditioner compared to the case where W ≤ TH2.

[0129] The control device may adjust the air blowing direction of the air conditioner so that the air from the air conditioner faces the occupant. When the device interlocked with the movement of the character is lighting, the control unit may display a video of the cat feeling dizzy on the screen M1 in the device operation interlock process, and blink the lighting device in conjunction with this video.

[0130] When the device that is linked to the movement of the character is a seat heater, in the device operation linked process, the control unit may display on screen M1 a video in which the character digs in and sweats, and operate the seat heater in conjunction with this video to gradually increase the temperature.

[0131] When the control unit presses the operation button for the seat memory function, it may execute the device operation linked process according to the weight. In this case, the device operation linked process may be executed for a plurality of electric devices such as an electric reclining mechanism, an electric slide mechanism, and a steering position adjustment device.

[0132] The seat system may have a physique detection unit that detects the physique of the user. The physique detection unit can adopt, for example, a camera facing outside the vehicle or a camera that can photograph the user standing outside the vehicle. In this case, the control unit may calculate the obesity degree (body mass index, BMI) of the user based on the physique (height) detected by the physique detection unit and the weight detected by the weight sensor, and compare the calculated obesity degree with a first threshold value or a second threshold value. Note that the height and weight may be obtained by the control unit through input by the user, or may be obtained by the control unit through communication between the weighing scale used at home and the vehicle.

[0133] Note that the first threshold value and the second threshold value in this case can be set as follows, for example. The case where the BMI is less than 18.5 is below the first threshold value. The case where the BMI is 18.5 or more and less than 24.5 is above the first threshold value and below the second threshold value. The case where the BMI is 24.5 or more is greater than the second threshold value.

[0134] The heavier the weight, the smaller the ratio of the stop time of the electric device per predetermined time may be. The heavier the weight, the shorter the standby time may be.

[0135] The display unit may be a projection device that projects a light image onto other members. The higher the number of operations, the greater the ratio of the stop time of the electric device per predetermined time may be increased.

[0136] The electric device may be the following devices. · An electric reclining mechanism for tilting the seat back · A height mechanism for moving the seat in the vertical direction · A movable device that deforms the seat shape by driving a bag body (air cell) or a plate member that operates by inflowing air (for example, a device that operates left and right protrusions protruding from the seating surface of the seat cushion or the seat back, a device that operates a part of the seating surface of the seat back or the seat cushion) · A side frame front end rising mechanism that switches between an up position where the front end of the side frame of the seat cushion is raised and a down position where it is lowered · A tilt mechanism for moving the cushion pan of the seat cushion up and down · A middle fold mechanism for tilting the upper part of the seat back back and forth · A rotation mechanism for rotating the seat about a vertical axis · A cushion front and rear adjustment mechanism for adjusting the length of the front end of the seat cushion · A mechanism for moving the ottoman back and forth · A mechanism for rotating the armrest up and down · A mechanism for expanding and contracting the armrest · A mechanism for switching between a state where the armrest is extended and a state where it is bent · Lighting · A headrest speaker (the headrest speaker may rotate or operate in at least one direction of front-back, left-right, up-down). · A heater provided in the seat back or the seat cushion · A seat blower which is a seat air conditioning device for flowing air on the surfaces of the seat cushion and the seat back · A vibration device · A window drive device for driving a window

[0137] The air cell is connected by an air pump and an air tube, and may expand and press toward the occupant side when air is injected. The air cell may be at the waist like a lumbar support, or a plurality of air cells may be provided on the seat so that the shape can be changed more locally.

[0138] The vibration device may be any device having a motor that generates vibration and a harness, a device having an eccentric motor, a device having a linear motor, etc. The vibration device may be provided in a seat cushion, a headrest, etc. The vibration device may be provided at the overhanging portions on the left and right of the seat cushion or the seat back.

[0139] The display unit may be arranged at any position such as an instrument panel, a center console, a steering wheel, a meter, the back of the seat, the side of the door, a decorative item, etc. Also, the display unit may be a projection device that projects an image. The display unit may be a portable terminal such as a smartphone or a tablet possessed by the seated person.

[0140] The movable part (at least a part of the seat) may be a member imitating a part of an animal's body such as cat ears. The movable part may be composed of a fluff member. The movable part may be an interior member other than the seat, for example, a window of a vehicle.

[0141] The character may be an animal other than a cat, or a character that anthropomorphizes objects or living things, etc. The character can be set in advance, and may be, for example, an image that deforms the occupant.

[0142] The vehicle is not limited to an automobile, and may be other vehicles such as a two-wheeled vehicle, a train, etc.

[0143] The collision detection unit may be an inter-vehicle distance sensor that detects the distance between the host vehicle and the vehicle ahead.

[0144] Examples of the manufacturing method of the seat system include the following methods. A seat, a weight sensor that detects the weight of a user sitting on the seat, an electric device that moves at least a part of the seat, an operation unit for operating the electric device, and a control unit, wherein when the control unit receives an operation command from the operation unit, based on the weight acquired from the weight sensor, it executes a device operation restriction process for restricting the operation of the electric device by stopping the operation of the electric device for a predetermined time. A method for manufacturing a seat system, comprising a step of attaching the weight sensor, the electric device, and the operation unit to the seat, and a step of connecting the weight sensor, the electric device, and the operation unit to the control unit.

[0145] Each element described in the above-described embodiments and modifications may be implemented in any combination.

Explanation of Reference Numerals

[0146] 1 Seat system 10 Seat 30 Electric slide mechanism 40 Weight sensor 62 Slide switch 100 Control unit

Claims

1. A seat, a weight sensor that detects the weight of a user sitting on the seat, an electric device that moves at least a part of the seat, an operation unit for operating the electric device, and a control unit, and the control unit when receiving an operation command from the operation unit, executes a device operation restriction process for restricting the operation of the electric device by stopping the operation of the electric device for a predetermined time based on the weight acquired from the weight sensor, In the device operation restriction process, a seat system characterized in that a ratio of a stop time of the electric device per predetermined time is changed based on the weight acquired from the weight sensor.

2. The control unit In the device operation restriction process, the seat system according to claim 1, characterized in that a standby time from when an operation command is received from the operation unit until the operation of the electric device is started is set based on the weight acquired from the weight sensor.

3. Further comprising a display unit, the control unit is capable of displaying characters by the display unit, In the case of executing the device operation restriction process, the seat system according to claim 2, characterized in that the character is moved with a movement corresponding to the operation of the electric device.

4. The control unit changes the character based on an operation history of the operation unit of the user, the seat system according to claim 3.

5. The control unit changes a ratio of the stop time per predetermined time based on an operation history of the operation unit, the seat system according to claim 1.

6. The seat has a vibration device, In the device operation restriction process, the control unit operates the vibration device when the weight acquired from the weight sensor exceeds a predetermined threshold value, the seat system according to claim 1.

7. The seat includes at least one of a speaker, an air conditioner, lighting, and a heater, In the device operation restriction process, the control unit interlocks an operation of at least one of the speaker, the air conditioner, the lighting, and the heater with a movement of the character, the seat system according to claim 4.

8. The control unit The seat system according to claim 1, characterized in that when a collision of the vehicle is predicted based on information from a collision detection unit provided in the vehicle, the device operation restriction process is not executed.

Images