Vehicle Interior Systems

The vehicle interior system addresses the lack of entertainment in drowsy driving prevention systems by varying electric device operations and character displays based on travel distance, enhancing user engagement and safety.

JP7716021B2Active Publication Date: 2025-07-31TS TECH CO LTD
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Patent Information

Application Number
JP2024026347
Authority / Receiving Office
JP · JP
Patent Type
Patents
Current Assignee / Owner
Priority Date
2023-12-08
Filing Date
2024-02-26
Publication Date
2025-07-31
Estimated Expiration
2044-02-26

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Conventional vehicle interior systems that prevent drowsy driving through vibration lack entertainment value.

Method used

A vehicle interior system that includes a travel distance acquisition unit, a display unit, and a control unit to change the operation of electric devices and character display based on travel distance, offering enhanced entertainment through varied operations and character growth.

Benefits of technology

Enhances entertainment value by adjusting device operations and character displays based on travel distance, reducing user irritation from long journeys and improving safety by avoiding unnecessary device actions during potential collisions.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Patent Text Reader

Abstract

To provide a vehicle interior system capable of enhancing entertainment.SOLUTION: A vehicle interior system 1 includes a travel distance acquisition unit 200 that acquires travel distance of a vehicle, a first electric device (electric reclining mechanism 21) provided in an interior member (seat 10), a display unit (monitor M) that displays a character, and a control unit 100. The control unit 100 changes the operation of the first electric device and display of the character based on the travel distance acquired from the travel distance acquisition unit 200.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1
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Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a vehicle interior system including an interior member and a control unit.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, as a vehicle interior system, there is known one that prevents drowsy driving by vibrating a vibration mechanism every time the vehicle travels a set distance at a vehicle speed exceeding the set speed (see Patent Document 1).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, in the prior art, although it was possible to prevent drowsy driving by vibration, the entertainment factor was lacking.

[0005] Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a vehicle interior system that can enhance entertainment.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] To solve the above problems, a vehicle interior system according to the present invention includes a travel distance acquisition unit that acquires the travel distance of a vehicle, a first electric device provided on an interior member, a display unit that displays a character, and a control unit. The control unit changes the operation of the first electric device and the display of the character based on the travel distance acquired from the travel distance acquisition unit.

[0007] According to this configuration, since the operation of the first electric device and the display of the character are changed according to the travel distance, the entertainment can be enhanced.

[0008] The vehicle interior system may further include a second electric device that is activated by energization and a first operation unit for activating the first electric device, and the control unit may be capable of selecting and executing a first control or a second control. The first control is control for setting the first electric device to a first operating state corresponding to the first operating command when a first operation command is received from the first operation unit. The second control is control for setting the first electric device to a second operating state not corresponding to the first operating command and / or activating the second electric device when the first operation command is received from the first operation unit. The control unit may change the probability of selecting the first control based on the mileage acquired from the mileage acquisition unit.

[0009] In addition, the control unit may increase the probability of selecting the first control when the mileage acquired from the mileage acquisition unit exceeds a threshold value compared to when the mileage acquired from the mileage acquisition unit is equal to or less than the threshold value.

[0010] According to this configuration, the probability of selecting the first control increases when the traveled distance exceeds the threshold, so that a user who is tired from traveling a long distance can be prevented from becoming irritated when the second control is executed.

[0011] In addition, as the second control, the control unit may select and execute at least one process from a plurality of candidates including a first process for putting the first electric device into a second operating state and a second process for operating the second electric device, and may set the number of candidates to a first value when the mileage acquired from the mileage acquisition unit is equal to or less than a threshold, and may set the number of candidates to a second value smaller than the first value when the mileage acquired from the mileage acquisition unit exceeds the threshold.

[0012] According to this configuration, when the traveled distance exceeds a threshold, the number of processes to be selected as the second control decreases. For example, when moving a character with an action corresponding to the second control, the number of patterns in which the character performs an incorrect action decreases, allowing the user to feel that the character is growing.

[0013] Also, the character is an image imitating a living being, and when the travel distance acquired from the travel distance acquisition unit exceeds a threshold value, the control unit may display an image of a grown living being as the character more than when the travel distance acquired from the travel distance acquisition unit is equal to or less than the threshold value.

[0014] According to this configuration, when the travel distance exceeds the threshold value, a grown character is displayed, so that the entertainment value can be enhanced. Also, for example, when the probability of selecting the first control increases when the travel distance exceeds the threshold value, the user can recognize that the number of times of making an incorrect operation command has decreased due to the growth of the character.

[0015] The first electric device is an air conditioner, and when the control unit acquires a command to raise the vehicle interior temperature as the first operation command and executes the second control, the control unit may set the air conditioner to the second operating state and lower the vehicle interior temperature.

[0016] Also, the first electric device is a device that moves at least a movable part that is at least a part of the seat. When the control unit acquires a command to move the movable part in a predetermined direction as the first operation command and executes the second control, the control unit may set the first electric device to the second operating state and move the movable part in a direction opposite to the predetermined direction.

[0017] According to this configuration, since the movable part is moved in a direction opposite to the operation command, the user can clearly know that an incorrect operation has been performed with respect to the operation command.

[0018] Also, at least one of the first electric device and the second electric device is a device that moves at least a movable part that is at least a part of the seat. In the second control, when the travel distance acquired from the travel distance acquisition unit exceeds the threshold value, the control unit may increase the amount of movement of the movable part more than when the travel distance acquired from the travel distance acquisition unit is equal to or less than the threshold value.

[0019] Furthermore, a plurality of vibration devices may be provided as the second electric device, and the control unit may select a vibration device to be activated from among the plurality of vibration devices in the second control.

[0020] Furthermore, the vehicle may further include a collision detection unit provided in the vehicle, and the control unit may not execute the second control when it predicts a vehicle collision based on information from the collision detection unit.

[0021] According to this configuration, the second control is not executed when there is a possibility of a vehicle collision, thereby improving safety. [Effects of the Invention]

[0022] According to the present invention, the operation of the first electric device and the display of the character change depending on the distance traveled, thereby enhancing entertainment value.

[0023] Furthermore, by configuring the system so that the probability of selecting the first control increases when the traveled distance exceeds a threshold, it is possible to prevent a user who is tired from traveling long distances from becoming irritated when the second control is executed.

[0024] Furthermore, by configuring the number of processes to be selected as the second control to decrease when the distance traveled exceeds a threshold, for example, when moving a character using an action corresponding to the second control, the number of patterns in which the character performs an incorrect action is reduced, allowing the user to feel that the character is growing.

[0025] Furthermore, entertainment value can be enhanced by configuring the game so that a grown character is displayed when the traveled distance exceeds a threshold. For example, if the probability of selecting the first control increases when the traveled distance exceeds a threshold, the user can recognize that the number of times they make a mistake in entering an operation command is decreasing due to the character's growth.

[0026] Furthermore, by configuring the movable part to move in the direction opposite to the operation command, the user can clearly know that an incorrect operation is being performed in response to the operation command.

[0027] In addition, by adopting a configuration in which the second control is not executed when there is a possibility of a vehicle collision, safety can be improved.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0028]

Figure 1

Figure 2

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Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0029] [First Embodiment] Hereinafter, a first embodiment of the vehicle interior system will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. As shown in FIG. 1, the vehicle interior system 1 includes a seat 10 as an example of an interior member, a camera C as an example of a collision detection unit, a traveling distance acquisition unit 200, a monitor M as an example of a display unit, and a control unit 100. The seat 10, the camera C, and the monitor M are arranged at positions facing the inside of the vehicle, specifically, the passenger compartment. In the present embodiment, the seat 10 is the driver's seat or the front passenger seat.

[0030] 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.

[0031] The seat cushion 11, the seat back 12, and the headrest 13 each have a metal frame constituting a skeleton, a pad covering the frame, and a skin covering the pad. The pad is made of urethane foam or the like. The skin is made of synthetic leather, fabric, or the like.

[0032] The seat cushion 11 has a base portion 11A located in the left-right center and protruding portions 11B located on both the left and right 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 protruding portions 11B protrude from the seating surface F of the base portion 11A toward the user to support the sides of the user's thighs and buttocks.

[0033] Similarly, the seat back 12 has a base portion 12A located in the center of the seat back and extension portions 12B located on both the left and right sides of the base portion 12A. The base portion 12A has a seating surface F that contacts the back of the user and supports the back from behind. The extension portions 12B extend outward from the seating surface F of the base portion 12A toward the user to support the sides of the user's upper body.

[0034] The seat 10 further includes an electric reclining mechanism 21 and an electric slide mechanism 30. The electric reclining mechanism 21 is an electric device that tilts the seat back 12. The electric reclining mechanism 21 includes a motor that is activated by energization.

[0035] 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 that it can move in the front-rear direction. The electric slide mechanism 30 is equipped with a motor that is activated by energization.

[0036] The seat 10 further includes a reclining switch 61, a slide switch 62, and a mode changeover switch 63.

[0037] The reclining switch 61 is an operating unit for operating the electric reclining mechanism 21. The reclining switch 61 can be tilted, for example, in the front-to-rear direction. When tilted forward, the reclining switch 61 outputs a forward tilt command to the control unit 100 to tilt the seat back 12 forward. When tilted rearward, the reclining switch 61 outputs a rearward tilt command to the control unit 100 to tilt the seat back 12 rearward.

[0038] The slide switch 62 is an operating unit for operating the electric slide mechanism 30. The slide switch 62 is slidable, for example, in the front-to-rear direction. When the slide switch 62 is slid forward, it outputs a forward movement command to the control unit 100 to move the seat 10 forward. When the slide switch 62 is slid rearward, it outputs a backward movement command to the control unit 100 to move the seat 10 rearward.

[0039] The mode selector 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 second control, which will be described later, can be executed. The second mode is a mode in which the second control is not executed. The mode selector switch 63 is, for example, a push button switch. The mode selector switch 63 alternates between an ON state and an OFF state each time the mode selector switch 63 is pressed by the user. In this embodiment, when the mode selector switch 63 is in an OFF state, the mode is the second mode, and when the mode selector switch 63 is in an ON state, the mode is the first mode.

[0040] The camera C is a camera that captures an image in front of the vehicle. The camera C is installed, for example, on the ceiling of the vehicle. Image information captured by the camera C is output to the control unit 100.

[0041] The mileage acquisition unit 200 has a function of acquiring the mileage of the vehicle. The mileage acquisition unit 200 acquires the mileage from, for example, an odometer. The mileage acquired by the mileage acquisition unit 200 may be, for example, the mileage from when the ignition switch that starts the vehicle is turned on to the present (i.e., the mileage per ride), or the mileage from when the vehicle is new to the present.

[0042] The monitor M has a screen M1 (see FIG. 2) that displays an image. The image displayed on the monitor M can be changed by the control unit 100. The monitor M can be placed on the dashboard, for example, so as to be located below the rearview mirror.

[0043] The control unit 100 is configured to include, for example, a CPU, RAM, ROM, input / output circuits, etc. The control unit 100 may be provided in the seat 10, or may be provided in a member other than the seat 10.

[0044] The control unit 100 is connected to the monitor M, various switches (61-63), the electric reclining mechanism 21, the electric sliding mechanism 30, the camera C, the mileage acquisition unit 200, and the monitor M. As shown in FIG. 3(a), the control unit 100 has a function of displaying a seat image G1, which is an image of a seat, and a cat image G2, which is an image imitating a cat as an example of a character, on the screen M1 of the monitor M. The control unit 100 has a function of selecting and executing a first control or a second control.

[0045] The first control is control that, when a first operation command is acquired from the first operation unit, causes the first electric device to be in a first operating state corresponding to the first operation command. In other words, the first control is control that causes the electric device to be operated in an operating state as intended by the user.

[0046] Specifically, when the control unit 100 executes the first control based on a command from the reclining switch 61, if the command is a forward tilt command, the control unit 100 operates the electric reclining mechanism 21 to tilt the seat back 12 forward, and if the command is a backward tilt command, the control unit 100 operates the electric reclining mechanism 21 to tilt the seat back 12 backward. In this case, the reclining switch 61 corresponds to the first operation unit, and the electric reclining mechanism 21 corresponds to the first electric device.

[0047] Furthermore, when the control unit 100 executes the first control based on a command from the slide switch 62, if the command is a forward command, it operates the electric slide mechanism 30 to move the seat 10 forward, and if the command is a backward command, it operates the electric slide mechanism 30 to move the seat 10 backward. In this case, the slide switch 62 corresponds to the first operation unit, and the electric slide mechanism 30 corresponds to the first electric device.

[0048] The second control is control for, when a first operation command is received from the first operation unit, putting the first electric device into a second operating state that does not correspond to the first operation command, or operating the second electric device. In other words, the second control is control for operating the electric device in an operating state contrary to the user's intention.

[0049] As the second control, the control unit 100 selects and executes at least one process from a plurality of candidates including a first process for putting the first electric device into a second operating state and a second process for operating the second electric device.

[0050] Specifically, when the control unit 100 executes the first process based on a command from the reclining switch 61, if the command is a forward tilt command, the electric reclining mechanism 21 is actuated so that the seat back 12 tilts backward, and if the command is a backward tilt command, the electric reclining mechanism 21 is actuated so that the seat back 12 tilts forward. Also, when the control unit 100 executes the first process based on a command from the slide switch 62, if the command is a forward movement command, the electric slide mechanism 30 is actuated so that the seat 10 moves backward, and if the command is a backward movement command, the electric slide mechanism 30 is actuated so that the seat 10 moves forward. That is, the control unit 100 controls the electric device so as to perform an operation opposite to the operation command in the first process.

[0051] Here, the seat back 12 and the seat 10 correspond to a movable part that is at least a part of the seat 10. When the control unit 100 obtains a command to move the movable part in a predetermined direction as the first operation command and executes the second control (first process), the first electric device is set to the second operating state, and the movable part is moved in a direction opposite to the predetermined direction.

[0052] When the control unit 100 executes the second process based on a command from the reclining switch 61, regardless of the content of the command, the electric slide mechanism 30, which is an electric device different from the electric reclining mechanism 21, is actuated to move the seat 10 forward or backward. When the control unit 100 executes the second process based on a command from the slide switch 62, regardless of the content of the command, the electric reclining mechanism 21, which is an electric device different from the electric slide mechanism 30, is actuated to tilt the seat back 12 forward or backward.

[0053] The control unit 100 has a function of changing the probability of selecting the first control based on the travel distance D acquired from the travel distance acquisition unit 200. Specifically, when the travel distance D acquired from the travel distance acquisition unit 200 exceeds the threshold value, the control unit 100 increases the probability of selecting the first control compared to when the travel distance D acquired from the travel distance acquisition unit 200 is equal to or less than the threshold value.

[0054] Specifically, based on the map shown in Fig. 4(a), the control unit 100 sets the probability of selecting the first control and the probability of selecting the second control. Note that the numerical values shown in this specification, such as those in Fig. 4 and Fig. 5, are examples and can be arbitrarily changed.

[0055] When the travel distance D is less than the first threshold value TH1, the control unit 100 sets the probability of selecting the first control to 50% and the probability of selecting the second control to 50%.

[0056] When the travel distance D is greater than or equal to the first threshold value TH1 and less than the second threshold value TH2, the control unit 100 sets the probability of selecting the first control to 70% and the probability of selecting the second control to 30%. Here, the second threshold value TH2 is greater than the first threshold value TH1. When the travel distance D is greater than or equal to the second threshold value TH2, the control unit 100 sets the probability of selecting the first control to 90% and the probability of selecting the second control to 10%.

[0057] The control unit 100 has a function of changing the number of a plurality of candidates selectable as the second control based on the travel distance D acquired from the travel distance acquisition unit 200. Specifically, when the travel distance D acquired from the travel distance acquisition unit 200 is less than or equal to the threshold value, the control unit 100 sets the number of candidates to a first value, and when the travel distance D acquired from the travel distance acquisition unit 200 exceeds the threshold value, the control unit 100 sets the number of candidates to a second value smaller than the first value.

[0058] Specifically, based on the map shown in Fig. 4(a), when the travel distance D is less than the first threshold value TH1, the control unit 100 sets the probability of selecting the first process to 40% and the probability of selecting the second process to 10%. When the travel distance D is greater than or equal to the first threshold value TH1 and less than the second threshold value TH2, the control unit 100 sets the probability of selecting the first process to 30% and the probability of selecting the second process to 0%. When the travel distance D is greater than or equal to the second threshold value TH2, the control unit 100 sets the probability of selecting the first process to 10% and the probability of selecting the second process to 0%.

[0059] The maps in Figures 4(b) and 5(a) and (b) are detailed versions of the map in Figure 4(a). The control unit 100 sets each probability based on the maps in Figures 4(b) and 5(a) and (b).

[0060] 4(b) is a map that the control unit 100 refers to when the traveled distance D is less than the first threshold value TH1. In the figure, the values in the columns indicated by diagonal hatching represent the probability (%) of selecting the first control, the values in the columns indicated by dotted hatching represent the probability (%) of selecting the first process as the second control, and the values in the columns without hatching represent the probability (%) of selecting the second process as the second control.

[0061] When the travel distance D is less than the first threshold TH1, the candidates selectable as the second control for one operation command (for example, reclining forward) are one first process and two second processes. In other words, when the travel distance D is less than the first threshold TH1, the number of candidates selectable as the second control is three.

[0062] 5(a) and 5(b), when the travel distance D is equal to or greater than the first threshold TH1, the probabilities of selecting two second processes are both set to 0%, so the number of candidates that can be selected as the second control for one operation command (e.g., reclining forward) is only one, that is, the first process. Therefore, when the travel distance D is equal to or greater than the first threshold TH1, the number of candidates that can be selected as the second control is one.

[0063] As shown in FIGS. 4(b), 5(a), and 5(b), as the travel distance D increases, the control unit 100 gradually increases the probability of selecting the first control in the order of 50%, 70%, and 90%, and gradually decreases the probability of selecting the first process of the second control in the order of 40%, 30%, and 10%. Since the first control is to move the first electric device with an operation corresponding to an operation command, and the first process is to move the first electric device with an operation not corresponding to the operation command, the control unit 100 changes the operation of the first electric device based on the travel distance D acquired from the travel distance acquisition unit 200. That is, the control unit 100 changes the operation of the first electric device based on the travel distance D so that the first electric device is moved with the correct operation with a high probability as the travel distance D increases.

[0064] As shown in FIG. 2, the control unit 100 has a function of changing the display of the character based on the travel distance D acquired from the travel distance acquisition unit 200. Specifically, when the travel distance D acquired from the travel distance acquisition unit 200 exceeds the threshold value, the control unit 100 displays an image of a grown cat as the character rather than when the travel distance D acquired from the travel distance acquisition unit 200 is below the threshold value.

[0065] Specifically, when the travel distance D is less than the first threshold value TH1, the control unit 100 displays a baby cat on the screen M1 as shown in FIG. 2(a). When the travel distance D is greater than or equal to the first threshold value TH1 and less than the second threshold value TH2, the control unit 100 displays a child cat that has grown a little from the baby on the screen M1 as shown in FIG. 2(b). When the travel distance D is greater than or equal to the second threshold value TH2, the control unit 100 displays an adult cat that has grown from the child on the screen M1.

[0066] 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 second control. 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 second control.

[0067] 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 changeover switch 63 is ON (S1). If it is determined in step S1 that the mode changeover switch 63 is not ON (No), the control unit 100 sets the mode to the second mode (S9) and ends this process.

[0068] If it is determined in step S1 that the mode changeover switch 63 is ON (Yes), the control unit 100 determines whether or not there is a possibility of a vehicle collision (S2) based on information from the camera C. If it is determined in step S2 that there is a possibility of a vehicle collision (Yes), the control unit 100 sets the mode to the second mode (S9) and ends this process.

[0069] If it is determined in step S2 that there is no possibility of a vehicle collision (No), the control unit 100 switches the mode to the first mode (S3). After step S3, the control unit 100 displays one of the images in Figures 2(a) to 2(c) on the screen M1 as a home screen in accordance with the mileage D acquired from the mileage acquisition unit 200 (S4).

[0070] After step S4, the control unit 100 determines whether or not there is an operation command (S5). If it is determined in step S5 that there is no operation command (No), the control unit 100 ends this process.

[0071] If it is determined in step S5 that an operation command is present (Yes), the control unit 100 sets the probability of selecting each process (first control, first process as second control, and second process as second control) based on the operation command and the traveled distance D (S6). More specifically, in step S6, the control unit 100 selects one of the maps shown in Fig. 4(b), Fig. 5(a), and (b) based on the traveled distance D, and sets each probability based on the selected map and the operation command.

[0072] After step S6, the control unit 100 randomly selects a process with each set probability (S7). After step S7, the control unit 100 displays an image corresponding to the selected process and the traveled distance D on the screen M1 (S8), and ends this process. In more detail, for example, if the process of tilting the seat back 12 backward by the electric reclining mechanism 21 is selected in step S7, the control unit 100 displays a video of a cat tilting the seat back backward on the screen M1, as shown in FIG. 3(a), and also operates the electric reclining mechanism 21 to actually tilt the seat back 12 backward, as shown in FIG. 3(b). Note that, although not shown, an image corresponding to the process is displayed and the seat 10 moves in a manner corresponding to the process when the process of tilting the seat back 12 forward, moving the seat 10 forward, or moving the seat 10 backward is selected.

[0073] The image in FIG. 3(a) is an image when the traveled distance D is equal to or greater than the first threshold value TH1 and less than the second threshold value TH2, and shows an image when a baby cat is set as the character. When the traveled distance D is less than the first threshold value TH1, the control unit 100 replaces the cat in the image in FIG. 3(a) with a baby cat and displays it. When the traveled distance D is equal to or greater than the second threshold value TH2, the control unit 100 replaces the cat in the image in FIG. 3(a) with an adult cat and displays it.

[0074] Next, a specific example of the operation of the control unit 100 will be described. In the following description, the map in FIG. 4(b) will also be referred to as the "first map," the map in FIG. 5(a) as the "second map," and the map in FIG. 5(b) as the "third map."

[0075] When the mode is the first mode and the driving distance D is less than the first threshold TH1, as shown in Fig. 2(a), the control unit 100 displays the baby cat on the screen M1 as the home screen. After that, when a forward tilt command is output from the reclining switch 61, the control unit 100 selects the first map in Fig. 4(b) and sets the probabilities of each process corresponding to the forward tilt command. Specifically, the control unit 100 sets the probability that the process of tilting the seat back 12 forward by the electric reclining mechanism 21 (first control) is selected to 50%, the probability that the process of tilting the seat back 12 backward by the electric reclining mechanism 21 (first process) is selected to 40%, the probability that the process of moving the seat 10 forward by the electric slide mechanism 30 (second process) is selected to 5%, and the probability that the process of moving the seat 10 backward by the electric slide mechanism 30 (second process) is selected to 5%.

[0076] After that, the control unit 100 randomly selects a process according to the set probabilities. For example, when the control unit 100 selects the process of tilting the seat back 12 backward by the electric reclining mechanism 21 (first process), it displays the video shown in Fig. 3(a) on the screen M1 and tilts the seat back 12 backward by the electric reclining mechanism 21.

[0077] When the mode is the first mode and the driving distance D is greater than or equal to the first threshold TH1 and less than the second threshold TH2, as shown in Fig. 2(b), the control unit 100 displays the child cat on the screen M1 as the home screen. After that, when a forward tilt command is output from the reclining switch 61, the control unit 100 selects the second map in Fig. 5(a) and sets the probabilities of each process corresponding to the forward tilt command. Specifically, the control unit 100 sets the probability that the process of tilting the seat back 12 forward by the electric reclining mechanism 21 (first control) is selected to 70%, the probability that the process of tilting the seat back 12 backward by the electric reclining mechanism 21 (first process) is selected to 30%, the probability that the process of moving the seat 10 forward by the electric slide mechanism 30 (second process) is selected to 0%, and the probability that the process of moving the seat 10 backward by the electric slide mechanism 30 (second process) is selected to 0%.

[0078] When the running distance D is equal to or greater than the first threshold value TH1 and less than the second threshold value TH2, the probability of selecting the first control is higher than when the running distance D is less than the first threshold value TH1, and the processes selected as the second control are limited to only the first process. Therefore, since the first control is selected with a higher probability when the cat on the screen M1 is a child than when it is a baby, the user can feel that the cat has become smarter, thereby enhancing the entertainment value.

[0079] When the mode is the first mode and the running distance D is equal to or greater than the second threshold value TH2, as shown in FIG. 2(c), the control unit 100 displays an adult cat on the screen M1 as the home screen. Thereafter, when a forward tilt command is output from the reclining switch 61, the control unit 100 selects the third map in FIG. 5(b) and sets the probabilities of the respective processes corresponding to the forward tilt command. Specifically, the control unit 100 sets the probability of the process (first control) of tilting the seat back 12 forward by the electric reclining mechanism 21 to 90%, the probability of the process (first process) of tilting the seat back 12 backward by the electric reclining mechanism 21 to 10%, the probability of the process (second process) of moving the seat 10 forward by the electric slide mechanism 30 to 0%, and the probability of the process (second process) of moving the seat 10 backward by the electric slide mechanism 30 to 0%.

[0080] When the running distance D is equal to or greater than the second threshold value TH2, the probability of selecting the first control is higher than when the running distance D is equal to or greater than the first threshold value TH1 and less than the second threshold value TH2. Therefore, since the first control is selected with a higher probability when the cat on the screen M1 is an adult than when it is a child, the user can feel that the cat has become smarter, thereby enhancing the entertainment value.

[0081] As described above, according to the present embodiment, the following effects can be obtained. Since the operation of the first electric device and the display of the character are changed according to the running distance D, the entertainment value can be enhanced.

[0082] When the travel distance D exceeds the threshold, the probability of selecting the first control increases, so it is possible to prevent a user who is tired from traveling a long distance from becoming irritated when the second control is executed.

[0083] When the distance traveled D exceeds the threshold, the number of processes to be selected as the second control decreases, thereby reducing the number of patterns in which the cat on screen M1 performs incorrect actions, allowing the user to feel that the cat is growing.

[0084] When the distance traveled D exceeds the threshold, the grown cat is displayed on the screen M1, which increases the entertainment value. In addition, the growth of the cat on the screen M1 allows the user to recognize that the number of times he or she makes mistakes in operating commands is decreasing.

[0085] In the first process, the movable part is moved in the direction opposite to the operation command, so that the user can clearly know that an incorrect operation is being performed in response to the operation command.

[0086] If there is a possibility of a vehicle collision, the second control is not executed, thereby improving safety.

[0087] [Second embodiment] Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Since this embodiment is a modification of the first embodiment, the same components as those in the first embodiment will be designated by the same reference numerals and their description will be omitted.

[0088] As shown in FIG. 7, a vehicle interior system 201 according to the second embodiment further includes a plurality of vibration devices 23 and an air conditioner 300 in addition to the configuration of the first embodiment.

[0089] The vibration device 23 is an electric device that vibrates when energized, thereby reciprocating only a portion of the surface of the seat 10. Four vibration devices 23 are provided on the seat cushion 11, and six are provided on the seat back 12.

[0090] Specifically, in the seat cushion 11, a pair of vibration devices 23 arranged side by side left and right are arranged so as to be arranged front and back. In the seat back 12, a pair of vibration devices 23 arranged side by side left and right are arranged so as to be arranged vertically. The vibration device 23 is, for example, embedded in the pad.

[0091] The air conditioner 300 is an electric device that discharges heated air or cooled air into the vehicle interior from an air outlet 310 provided on a dashboard or the like.

[0092] The control unit 100 according to the second embodiment selects a process with reference to a first map, a second map, and a third map different from the first embodiment. Specifically, when the driving distance D is less than the first threshold value TH1, the control unit 100 refers to the first map shown in FIG. 8. In addition to the first map in FIG. 4(b), three second processes are newly added to the first map in FIG. 8.

[0093] The newly added second processes are the following three processes. 1. A process of operating the vibration device 23. 2. A process of sending out the heated air from the air conditioner 300 to raise the temperature inside the vehicle. 3. A process of sending out the cooled air from the air conditioner 300 to lower the temperature inside the vehicle.

[0094] And in the first map, the probability of selecting the first control is set to 50%, the probability of selecting the first process is set to 25%, and the probability of selecting each of the five second processes is set to 5% respectively. Thus, in the second embodiment, when the driving distance D is less than the first threshold value TH1, the number of a plurality of candidates that can be selected as the second control is six. Further, in the second embodiment, when the driving distance D is less than the first threshold value TH1, the control unit 100 targets not only a plurality of electric devices provided on the seat 10 but also an electric device (air conditioner) provided on an interior member (dashboard) other than the seat 10 for the second control.

[0095] When the travel distance D is equal to or greater than the first threshold value TH1 and less than the second threshold value TH2, the control unit 100 refers to the second map shown in FIG. 9. In the second map, the probabilities of selecting two second processes for operating the air conditioner 300 are both set to 0%. As a result, when the travel distance D satisfies TH1 ≤ D < TH2, the number of candidates that can be selected as the second control is four. Also, in the second embodiment, when the travel distance D satisfies TH1 ≤ D < TH2, the control unit 100 targets only the electric devices provided on the seat 10 for the second control.

[0096] When the travel distance D is equal to or greater than the second threshold value TH2, the control unit 100 refers to the third map shown in FIG. 10. In the third map, the first process and four of the five second processes, excluding the process of operating the vibration device 23, are each set to 0%. As a result, when the travel distance D is equal to or greater than the second threshold value TH2, the number of candidates that can be selected as the second control is one. Also, in the second embodiment, when the travel distance D is equal to or greater than the second threshold value TH2, the control unit 100 targets only the vibration device 23 for the second control.

[0097] In this way, since the electric devices targeted for the second control gradually decrease, such as all electric devices, a plurality of electric devices provided on the seat 10, and only the vibration device 23, the user can feel that the cat is growing.

[0098] When the control unit 100 operates the vibration device 23 as the second control, for example, as shown in FIG. 11, a video of the cat running around on the seat can be displayed on the screen M1. In this case, when the travel distance D is less than the second threshold value TH2, the control unit 100 does not target the vibration device 23 for the second control, and when the travel distance D is equal to or greater than the second threshold value TH2, the control unit 100 can target the vibration device 23 for the second control.

[0099] Specifically, for example, the probability of selecting the process of activating the vibration device in the first and second maps shown in Figures 8 and 9 can be set to 0%, and the 5% allocated to the process of activating the vibration device can be allocated to other processes. In this way, if the vibration device 23 is subject to the second control only when the traveled distance D is equal to or greater than the second threshold value TH2, a user who watches the video shown in Figure 11 can feel that the cat is running around irritated by the long traveled distance, and can experience the actual long traveled distance.

[0100] In this case, the control unit 100 may select, in the second control, a vibration device 23 to be activated from among the plurality of vibration devices 23. Specifically, when the traveled distance D is equal to or greater than the second threshold value TH2, the control unit 100 may activate the plurality of vibration devices 23 on the seat back 12 in order from top to bottom, and then activate the plurality of vibration devices 23 on the seat cushion 11 in order from back to front. In this way, the seating surface of the seat 10 vibrates in a wavy manner in conjunction with a display of a cat running around annoyed after a long-distance journey, allowing the user to feel the cat's irritability more clearly.

[0101] 12 and 13, in the second control, when the traveled distance acquired from the traveled distance acquisition unit 200 exceeds a threshold, the control unit 100 may increase the amount of movement of the movable part compared to when the traveled distance acquired from the traveled distance acquisition unit 200 is equal to or less than the threshold. Here, the movable part in the embodiment shown in FIGS. 12 and 13 is a part of the surface of the seat 10 that is moved by the vibration device 23.

[0102] For example, when the control unit 100 executes the second control to activate the vibration device 23 when the traveled distance D is less than the first threshold value TH1, it displays a baby cat as a character and vibrates the vibration device 23 at a predetermined first strength, as shown in Figures 12(a) and (b).

[0103] When the control unit 100 executes the second control to activate the vibration device 23 when the traveled distance D is equal to or greater than the second threshold value TH2, it displays an adult cat as the character and vibrates the vibration device 23 at a second strength greater than the first strength, as shown in Figures 13(a) and (b).

[0104] As a vibration device capable of changing the vibration intensity, for example, a vibration device that changes the frequency and amplitude of vibration to change the vibration intensity can be used. Also, instead of the vibration intensity, the vibration pattern may be changed according to the travel distance.

[0105] 14, the control unit 100 may execute the first control or the second control based on an operation command from an operation unit for operating the air conditioner 300. In other words, the control unit 100 may execute the first control or the second control based on an operation command from an operation unit for operating an electric device provided in an interior member other than the seat 10.

[0106] Specifically, when the control unit 100 receives a command to increase the interior temperature as the first operation command and executes the second control, the control unit 100 may set the air conditioner 300 to the second operation state to decrease the interior temperature. Also, when the control unit 100 receives a command to decrease the interior temperature as the first operation command and executes the second control, the control unit 100 may set the air conditioner 300 to the second operation state to increase the interior temperature.

[0107] The number of electric devices operated in the second control is not limited to one, and may be multiple. For example, in the second control, the control unit may set the first electric device to the second operating state and operate the second electric device.

[0108] The interior member may be an instrument panel, a center console, a steering wheel, an inner door panel, or the like.

[0109] When the travel distance reaches or exceeds a threshold, the character may perform an action display in time with music played by the passenger on an in-car sound system, and a vibration device may be activated in time with the sound.

[0110] When the control unit predicts a vehicle collision, it may execute a collision prediction notification process to notify the user of the possibility of the vehicle collision. The travel distance acquisition unit may calculate and acquire the travel distance based on information from, for example, a wheel speed sensor that detects the wheel speed.

[0111] The electric device may be the device shown below. · A height mechanism that moves the seat in the vertical direction · A movable device that deforms the seat shape by driving a bag body (air cell) that operates by inflowing air or a plate member (for example, a device that operates left and right protrusions protruding from the seating surface of the seat cushion or seat back, a device that operates a part of the seating surface of the seat back or seat cushion) · A side frame front end raising 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 that moves the cushion pan of the seat cushion up and down · A middle fold mechanism that tilts the upper part of the seat back back and forth · A rotation mechanism that rotates the seat about a vertical axis · A cushion front and rear adjustment mechanism that adjusts the length of the front end of the seat cushion · A mechanism that rotates the ottoman up and down or moves it back and forth · A mechanism that rotates the armrest up and down · A mechanism that expands and contracts the armrest · A mechanism that switches 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 back and forth, left and right, up and down). · A heater provided on the seat back or seat cushion · A seat blower that is a seat air conditioner that flows air on the surfaces of the seat cushion and seat back · A window drive device that drives the window

[0112] The air cell may be connected to an air pump by an air tube, and may expand and press against the occupant when air is pumped in. The air cell may be located in the lower back like a lumbar support, or multiple air cells may be provided on the seat to allow for more localized changes in shape.

[0113] The vibration device may be any type, such as one having a motor and harness that emits vibrations, one having an eccentric motor, or one having a linear motor. The vibration device may be provided on a seat cushion, a headrest, etc. The vibration device may be provided on the left and right protrusions of the seat cushion or seat back.

[0114] The display unit may be located anywhere, such as on the instrument panel, center console, steering wheel, meter, seat back, door side, or decorative element. The display unit may also be a projection device that projects an image. The display unit may also be a mobile device such as a smartphone or tablet carried by the seat occupant.

[0115] The movable part (at least a part of the seat) may be a member that resembles an animal's body part, such as cat ears. The movable part may be made of a raised material. The movable part may also be an interior member other than a seat, such as a vehicle window.

[0116] The character may be an animal other than a cat, a living thing such as a plant, or an anthropomorphized object or living thing. The character may be set in advance, and may be, for example, an image of a deformed passenger.

[0117] The vehicle is not limited to an automobile, but may be other vehicles such as a motorcycle or a train.

[0118] The collision detection unit may be an inter-vehicle distance sensor that detects the distance between the vehicle and a vehicle ahead.

[0119] Examples of methods for manufacturing a vehicle interior system include the following methods. A method for manufacturing a vehicle interior system comprising: a mileage acquisition unit that acquires the mileage of a vehicle; a first electric device provided in an interior member; a display unit that displays a character; and a control unit, wherein the control unit changes the operation of the first electric device and the display of the character based on the mileage acquired from the mileage acquisition unit, the method comprising the steps of attaching the first electric device to the interior member; and connecting the mileage acquisition unit, the first electric device, and the display unit to the control unit.

[0120] The elements described in the above-described embodiment and modified examples may be implemented in any combination. [Explanation of symbols]

[0121] 1. Vehicle interior systems 10 sheets 21 Electric reclining mechanism 30 Electric slide mechanism 100 control section 200 Mileage Acquisition Unit M Monitor

Claims

1. An odometer that acquires the travel distance of a vehicle, A first electric device provided on an interior member, A second electric device that operates by being energized, A first operation unit for operating the first electric device, A display unit that displays a character, A control unit that changes the operation of the first electric device and the display of the character based on the travel distance acquired from the odometer, and is provided with: The control unit is When a first operation command is acquired from the first operation unit, a first control for setting the first electric device to a first operating state corresponding to the first operation command, When the first operation command is acquired from the first operation unit, a second control for setting the first electric device to a second operating state not corresponding to the first operation command and / or operating the second electric device can be selected and executed, A vehicle interior system characterized by changing the probability of selecting the first control based on the travel distance acquired from the odometer.

2. When the travel distance acquired from the odometer exceeds a threshold value, the control unit increases the probability of selecting the first control compared to when the travel distance acquired from the odometer is less than or equal to the threshold value. The vehicle interior system according to claim 1.

3. The control unit is As the second control, at least one process is selected and executed from a plurality of candidates including a first process of setting the first electric device to the second operating state and a second process of operating the second electric device, When the travel distance acquired from the odometer is less than or equal to the threshold value, the number of candidates is set to a first value, When the travel distance acquired from the odometer exceeds the threshold value, the number of candidates is set to a second value smaller than the first value. The vehicle interior system according to claim 2.

4. The character is an image imitating a living thing, When the travel distance acquired from the odometer exceeds a threshold value, the control unit displays an image of the grown living thing as the character compared to when the travel distance acquired from the odometer is less than or equal to the threshold value. The vehicle interior system according to claim 1.

5. The first electric device is an air conditioner, When the control unit obtains a command to increase the in-vehicle temperature as the first operation command and executes the second control, the air conditioner is set to the second operating state, and the in-vehicle temperature is decreased. The vehicle interior system according to claim 1, characterized in that.

6. The first electric device is a device that moves a movable part that is at least a part of the seat. When the control unit obtains a command to move the movable part in a predetermined direction as the first operation command and executes the second control, the first electric device is set to the second operating state, and the movable part is moved in a direction opposite to the predetermined direction. The vehicle interior system according to claim 1, characterized in that.

7. At least one of the first electric device and the second electric device is a device that moves a movable part that is at least a part of the seat. In the second control, when the travel distance acquired from the travel distance acquisition unit exceeds a threshold value, the control unit increases the operation amount of the movable part more than when the travel distance acquired from the travel distance acquisition unit is equal to or less than the threshold value. The vehicle interior system according to claim 1, characterized in that.

8. A plurality of vibration devices as the second electric device are provided. In the second control, the control unit selects a vibration device to be operated from among the plurality of vibration devices. The vehicle interior system according to claim 7, characterized in that.

9. The vehicle further includes a collision detection unit provided in the vehicle. When the control unit predicts a collision of the vehicle based on information from the collision detection unit, the control unit does not execute the second control. The vehicle interior system according to claim 1, characterized in that.

Citation Information

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