Mounting structure for functional components and interior components
The mounting structure for vehicle interior components addresses power supply and layout flexibility issues by using a power-storing first component and a second component with non-contact power transfer, ensuring functionality when stopped and enhancing usability.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- JP · JP
- Patent Type
- Patents
- Current Assignee / Owner
- TS TECH CO LTD
- Filing Date
- 2022-03-18
- Publication Date
- 2026-06-24
AI Technical Summary
Existing vehicle interior component mounting structures fail to provide power to functional components when the vehicle is stopped and limit the layout flexibility of these components.
A mounting structure for functional components that includes a first functional component with a power storage unit and a second component that can be attached to the first, allowing power transfer via a non-contact method, with switchable power circuits and a foldable table section.
Enables power supply to functional components when the vehicle is stopped, enhances layout flexibility, and provides waterproofing and stain resistance while allowing power transfer to external devices.
Smart Images

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Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] The present invention relates to an attachment structure of functional components and an interior member, and particularly to a structure for attaching functional components to an interior member for a vehicle and an interior member having such a structure.
Background Art
[0002] In Patent Document 1, a locking portion of a functional component such as a lighting device or a speaker is locked to an edge portion of a through-hole of an interior member, and thereby, a conductive portion on the interior member side and a conductive portion on the functional component side are brought into contact with each other, so that a structure for electrically connecting the conductive portion on the interior member side and the functional component is disclosed.
[0003] In the structure described in Patent Document 1, it is possible to receive power supply during operation of the vehicle. On the other hand, since it is a structure that receives power supply only from the interior member, it was not possible to receive power supply during parking of the vehicle. Therefore, there was a problem that it was impossible to meet the demand for supplying power to the functional component even in a situation where power supply could not be received.
[0004] Further, Patent Document 2 discloses a cabin set in which attachments such as a chair unit and a kitchen unit can be attached to a rail provided on the inner surface of the cabin. In the technique described in Patent Document 2, functional components such as attachments are only provided on the rail, and there is room for further utilization and layout study.
Prior Art Documents
Patent Documents
[0005]
Patent Document 1
Patent Document 2
Summary of the Invention
Problems to be Solved by the Invention
[0006] This invention was made in view of the problem of wanting to supply power to functional components even in situations where the above-mentioned power supply is unavailable, and its purpose is to provide a mounting structure and interior components that can supply power to functional components attached to interior components even when the vehicle is stopped.
[0007] Furthermore, the present invention has been made in view of another problem: the need to further utilize the above-mentioned functional components. Its purpose is to provide a mounting structure for functional components and an interior component that expands the freedom of layout for the functional components. [Means for solving the problem]
[0008] The aforementioned problem is solved by providing a mounting structure for a functional component to be attached to an interior member of a vehicle, wherein the functional component comprises a first functional component attached to a fitting portion of the interior member that can receive power, and a second functional component attached to the first functional component, the first functional component having a first power receiving unit that receives power from the fitting portion, a power storage unit that stores power, a power supply unit that supplies power to the first functional component and the second functional component, and an opening that connects the second functional component, and the second functional component having an insertion portion that is inserted through the opening, and a second power receiving unit that receives power from the first functional component with the insertion portion inserted through the opening.
[0009] The first functional component functions as a support for attaching the second functional component, and the first functional component also includes a power storage unit, making it possible to supply power to the functional components attached to the interior members even when the vehicle is stopped.
[0010] Furthermore, in the mounting structure for the functional components described above, the power supply unit comprises a first power supply circuit for supplying power to the first functional component and a second power supply circuit for supplying power to the second functional component, and it is preferable that the first power supply circuit and the second power supply circuit be switchable. The power source for functional components can be switched as needed.
[0011] Furthermore, in the mounting structure for the functional components described above, the power supply unit has a power transmission coil, the second power receiving unit of the second functional component has a power receiving coil, and by bringing the power receiving coil close to the power transmission coil, power can be supplied non-contactually from the power supply unit of the first functional component to the second power receiving unit of the second functional component. By using a contactless power supply method, the electrodes are not exposed, making it possible to achieve waterproofing and stain resistance.
[0012] Furthermore, in the mounting structure for the functional component described above, the second functional component may have a table portion and be equipped with a power jack capable of supplying power from the first functional component to an external component. By including a power jack, it becomes possible to supply power to external components placed on the table, such as a smartphone or music player.
[0013] Furthermore, in the mounting structure for the functional component described above, it is preferable that the table portion of the second functional component be foldable. By making the table section foldable, the storage space can be made more compact.
[0014] Furthermore, in the mounting structure for the functional component described above, the first functional component may have a speaker function. The primary functional component incorporates a speaker function, allowing sound to be emitted from close to the occupants.
[0015] Furthermore, in the mounting structure for the functional components described above, the interior member may be a door trim for a vehicle. Functional components can be attached to the door trim, allowing them to be positioned close to the occupants.
[0016] Furthermore, in the mounting structure for the functional components described above, the interior member may be a vehicle seat. Functional components can be positioned near the occupant seated behind the vehicle seat.
[0017] In addition, in the mounting structure of the above functional components, the vehicle seat is a seat that can be erected and folded at the seat part, and it is preferable to provide a fitting part capable of supplying power for mounting the first functional component and / or the second functional component on the back surface of the seat part. By folding the vehicle seat, it is possible to arrange functional components while expanding the space at the feet of the occupant.
[0018] The above problem is solved by an interior member having the mounting structure of the above functional components. Even when the vehicle is parked, power can be supplied to the functional components by an interior member having the mounting structure of the above functional components.
[0019] Another problem is a mounting structure of a functional component attached to an interior member of a vehicle. The functional component includes a first functional component attached to a fitting part of the interior member capable of supplying power, and a second functional component attached to the first functional component. The first functional component has an opening for connecting the second functional component, and the second functional component has an insertion part inserted into the opening, thereby solving the problem.
[0020] Since the first functional component functions as a support part for attaching the second functional component, the degree of freedom in the layout of the functional components is expanded.
[0021] In addition, in the mounting structure of the above functional components, the fitting part of the interior member is formed in a predetermined groove shape, and the first functional component preferably has a protruding connection part that can be fitted into the fitting part and is formed according to the predetermined groove shape. By making the fitting part into a predetermined groove shape, the mounting structure can be standardized, and various attachments other than the functional components can be attached.
[0022] In addition, in the mounting structure of the above functional components, the fitting part of the interior member is provided inside a recess recessed from the surface of the interior member, and a flap is provided around the opening of the recess. By providing a flap around the opening of the recess, it is possible to suppress the intrusion of dust or dirt when the functional component is not attached.
[0023] Also, in the attachment structure of the above functional component, the first functional component has a first power receiving part that receives power supply from the fitting part, and a power supply part that supplies power to the first functional component and the second functional component. The second functional component may have a second power receiving part that receives power supply from the first functional component in a state where the insertion part is inserted into the opening part. It becomes possible to supply power to the first functional component and the second functional component.
[0024] Also, in the attachment structure of the above functional component, the power supply part has a power transmission coil, the second power receiving part of the second functional component is a power reception coil, and by bringing the power reception coil close to the power transmission coil, power may be supplied non - contact from the power supply part of the first functional component to the second power receiving part of the second functional component. Also, by making the power supply non - contact, it is possible to prevent the electrodes from being exposed and to cope with waterproofing and antifouling.
[0025] Also, in the attachment structure of the above functional component, the second functional component may include a table part, and the table part may be foldable. By making the table part foldable, the storage space can be made compact.
[0026] Also, in the attachment structure of the above functional component, the interior member may be a door trim for a vehicle. Functional components can be attached to the door trim, and the functional components can be arranged near the passengers.
[0027] Also, in the attachment structure of the above functional component, the interior member may be a vehicle seat. Since the interior member is a vehicle seat, functional components can be arranged near the passengers sitting behind the vehicle seat.
[0028] Furthermore, in the mounting structure for the functional component described above, the interior member is a vehicle seat that can be raised and folded, and the recess is provided on the back surface of the seat, and the fitting portion is provided inside the recess for attaching the connecting portion of the first functional component and / or the insertion portion of the second functional component. By folding the seats in the vehicle, it is possible to increase the legroom for the occupants while also arranging functional components.
[0029] Furthermore, the aforementioned other problem is solved by an interior component equipped with the above-mentioned mounting structure for the functional component. Since the first functional component functions as a support for attaching the second functional component, the degree of freedom in the layout of the functional components is increased. [Effects of the Invention]
[0030] According to the present invention, the first functional component functions as a support for attaching the second functional component, and the first functional component is equipped with a power storage unit for accumulating power, making it possible to supply power to the functional component attached to the interior member even when the vehicle is stopped. Furthermore, the power supply destination for functional components can be switched as needed. Furthermore, by using a non-contact power supply method, the electrodes are not exposed, making it possible to achieve waterproofing and stain resistance. By including a power jack, it becomes possible to supply power to external components placed on the table, such as a smartphone or music player. By making the table section foldable, the storage space can be made more compact. The primary functional component incorporates a speaker function, allowing sound to be emitted from close to the occupants. Functional components can be attached to the door trim, allowing them to be positioned close to the occupants. Because the interior components are vehicle seats, functional components can be placed near the occupants seated behind the seats. By folding the seats in the vehicle, it is possible to increase the legroom for the occupants while also arranging functional components. Furthermore, the interior components, which include a mounting structure for functional parts, allow power to be supplied to the functional parts even when the vehicle is stopped.
[0031] Furthermore, according to the present invention, since the first functional component functions as a support for attaching the second functional component, the degree of freedom in the layout of the functional components is increased. Furthermore, by designing the mating portion with a predetermined groove shape, the mounting structure can be standardized, making it possible to attach various attachments in addition to functional components. Furthermore, by providing a flap around the opening of the recess, it is possible to suppress the intrusion of dust or dirt when functional components are not installed. Furthermore, by incorporating a power supply unit, it becomes possible to supply power to the first and second functional components. Furthermore, by using a non-contact power supply method, the electrodes are not exposed, making it possible to achieve waterproofing and stain resistance. Furthermore, by making the table section foldable, the storage space can be made more compact. Furthermore, functional components can be attached to the door trim, allowing them to be positioned closer to the occupants. Furthermore, because the interior components are vehicle seats, functional parts can be placed near the occupants seated behind the seats. Furthermore, by folding the seats in the vehicle, it is possible to increase the legroom for the occupants while also arranging functional components. [Brief explanation of the drawing]
[0032] [Figure 1] This is an explanatory diagram illustrating a vehicle equipped with a functional component according to the embodiment. [Figure 2] This diagram shows the interior of a vehicle, viewed from the front towards the rear of the passenger compartment. [Figure 3] This is a perspective view showing the armrest, which is the primary functional component. [Figure 4] This is a perspective view showing the armrest and the table connected to it. [Figure 5A]Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view along the VV line, showing the state before the table is connected to the armrest. [Figure 5B] This diagram shows the table connected to the armrest. [Figure 6] This is a perspective view showing the armrests on a folded seat. [Figure 7] This is a cross-sectional view of the window along line VII-VII in Figure 1. [Figure 8] This is a side view of the second light-shielding component as seen from inside the vehicle. [Figure 9] This diagram shows the vehicle interior in work mode, viewed from the rear. [Figure 10] This diagram shows the control panel displayed at the top of the door. [Figure 11] This diagram shows the passenger compartment in relaxation mode, viewed from the rear. [Figure 12] This is a diagram showing the control panel displayed on the lower edge of the door. [Figure 13] This diagram shows the controls before and after they are touched by the crew. The upper diagram shows the controls before they are touched, and the lower diagram shows the controls after they are touched. [Figure 14] This diagram shows the control panel where the message is displayed. [Figure 15] This diagram shows a detachable operating device. [Figure 16A] This figure shows the vehicle's seat and lighting system in concentrated mode. [Figure 16B] This diagram shows the vehicle seat and lighting system in relaxation mode; the upper section is a side view, and the lower section is a view of the seat from above. [Figure 17] This diagram shows the relationship between the position of the sun (the light source) and the position of the sunshade. [Figure 18] This is a side view of a vehicle seat; the upper section shows the seat in its normal seating position, and the lower section shows the seat in its lowered position. [Modes for carrying out the invention]
[0033] <<First Embodiment>> A mounting structure for a functional component according to the first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. However, the embodiments described below are provided to facilitate understanding of the present invention and do not limit it. That is, the present invention can be modified and improved without departing from its spirit, and of course, equivalents thereof are included in the present invention. Furthermore, the descriptions below regarding the materials, shapes, and sizes of the components constituting interior materials and functional parts are merely examples and do not limit the present invention.
[0034] In the following, we will describe a mounting structure for a functional component installed on the side of a vehicle interior as an example of interior components for vehicles. However, the present invention is not limited to interior components for vehicles mounted on ground-running vehicles with wheels, such as automobiles and trains, but can also be applied to interior components mounted on aircraft, ships, and other vehicles that move on surfaces other than the ground.
[0035] In the following, we will describe examples of functional components, specifically armrests and table devices, which are installed in passenger vehicles (vehicle V) such as minivans.
[0036] Furthermore, in the following explanation, "forward / backward direction" refers to the forward / backward direction of the vehicle V, which coincides with the direction of travel when the vehicle is in motion. "Width direction" refers to the width direction of the vehicle V, which coincides with the left-right direction as viewed from an occupant seated in a vehicle seat S. "Up-down direction" refers to the up-down direction of the vehicle V, which coincides with the vertical direction when the vehicle V is traveling on a horizontal plane. Additionally, "outside" simply refers to the side closer to the outside when moving outward from the center of the vehicle, while "inside" refers to the side closer to the center when moving from the outside of the vehicle V towards the center. Finally, "inside" refers to the direction towards the interior of the vehicle.
[0037] Figures 1 and 2 show the interior of a vehicle V equipped with the mounting structure for the functional member of the present invention. The vehicle door D of vehicle V is provided with a window W and a shade device SH. Inside the interior of vehicle V, the driver's seat S1 and passenger seat S2, the second row MID seats S3 and S4, and the third row 3rd seats S5 and S6 are arranged in order from the front to the rear of the vehicle V. In the following, unless otherwise distinguished, the driver's seat S1, passenger seat S2, MID seats S3 and S4, and 3rd seats S5 and S6 may be collectively referred to as seats S. A rear gate RG is provided behind the 3rd seats S5 and S6.
[0038] <Matching part> Multiple fitting parts 2 for attaching functional components 1 are provided inside the vehicle. As shown in Figure 1, the fitting parts 2 are provided on the backs of the driver's seat S1 and passenger seat S2, on the door trim DT next to the MID seats S3 and S4, and on the side wall SW next to the 3rd seats S5 and S6. The first functional component, the armrest 10, is attached to the fitting part 2, and a power supply mechanism 5 is provided to supply power to the attached armrest 10. Power is supplied when the power supply mechanism 5 is connected to the first power receiving part 13 of the armrest 10.
[0039] As shown in Figure 1, the armrest 10 is attached to the fitting portion 2 on the right side of the MID seat S3. Another armrest 10 is attached to the fitting portion 2 on the right side of the 3rd seat S5. A table device 20, which is a functional component 1, is further attached to the armrest 10 attached to the fitting portion 2 on the right side of the 3rd seat S5. The table device 20 corresponds to the second functional component of the present invention. Note that the armrest 10 does not need to be attached to all fitting parts 2 inside the vehicle. Also, the table device 20 may be attached to the fitting parts 2. For example, the table device 20 is directly attached to the fitting part 2 on the back of the driver's seat S1 in Figure 1.
[0040] Each of the fitting parts 2 provided inside the vehicle interior is formed into a predetermined groove shape. Furthermore, the armrest 10 attached to the fitting part 2 is provided with a protruding connecting part 11 that can be fitted into the fitting part 2, as will be described later, and can be fitted into any of the fitting parts 2. By standardizing the mounting structure for fitting the connecting part 11 into the fitting part 2, it becomes possible to attach functional parts other than the armrest 10, such as a table device 20, by providing the same shaped connecting part 11 to the table device 20.
[0041] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 3, the fitting portion 2 is provided inside a recess 3 that is recessed from the surface of the door trim DT or side wall SW. In addition, a flap 4 is provided around the opening of the recess 3. The flap 4 prevents dust or dirt from entering the interior of the fitting portion 2.
[0042] <First Functional Components> The first functional component, the armrest 10, will be explained using Figures 3 to 5B. The armrest 10 is a component attached to the vehicle body via a fitting portion 2 provided on the door trim DT or side wall SW. The armrest 10 consists of an elongated base material 10a (see Figure 5A) and a pad P and surface material T that cover the periphery of the base material 10a. As described above, the armrest 10 has a connecting portion 11 that is inserted into the fitting portion 2. The connecting portion 11 extends from the side of the base material 10a, as shown in Figure 4. A latch 17 is provided at the tip of the connecting portion 11, and after inserting the connecting portion 11 into the fitting portion 2, the armrest 10 can be fixed to the fitting portion 2. Also, as shown in Figure 3, the side opposite the connecting portion 11 has an opening 12 through which the insertion portion 21 of the table device 20, which is a second functional component, is inserted.
[0043] The armrest 10 has a first power receiving unit 13 at the connection part 11 that receives power from the fitting part 2. The armrest 10 also has a power storage unit 15 that stores the received power. The armrest 10 has a speaker 16. The speaker 16 can connect to a smartphone or the like via a short-range wireless connection such as Bluetooth® or Wi-Fi® to produce sound. The armrest 10 has a power supply unit 14 that supplies power to the power storage unit 15 or the speaker 16. The power supply unit 14 can also supply power to the connected table device 20. Thus, the armrest 10 has a speaker function, but if the speaker function is not required, it may be configured to have only the power storage unit 15 as its function. By having the power storage unit 15, power can be supplied to the table device 20 using the power storage unit 15 even when power is not supplied from the vehicle V.
[0044] The power supply unit 14 has a first power supply circuit 14a that supplies power to the armrest 10 and a second power supply circuit 14b that supplies power to the table device 20, and it is possible to switch between the first power supply circuit 14a and the second power supply circuit 14b. The occupant can choose to supply power to either the armrest 10 or the table device 20 as needed.
[0045] Furthermore, the armrest 10 can be powered by wireless power transfer to the table device 20. Specifically, a power transmission coil 14c is provided at the bottom of the opening 12. A power receiving coil 22, which is a second power receiving unit, is provided in the insertion part 21 of the table device 20. As shown in Figure 5B, when the insertion part 21 is inserted into the opening 12, the power transmission coil 14c and the power receiving coil 22 come into close proximity, thereby generating a magnetic field 6 and enabling power transmission by wireless power transfer. By using wireless power supply from the armrest 10 to the table device 20, the electrode terminals are not exposed, making it possible to ensure waterproofing and stain resistance.
[0046] <Second functional component> Next, the second functional component, the table device 20, will be described. As shown in Figure 5A, the table device 20 is a device having a table section 23, which is attached to the armrest 10 and functions as a table. The table section 23 can be extended in the direction of arrow A, as shown in Figure 5A, by the hinge 24, thereby increasing the table area.
[0047] As described above, the table device 20 is equipped with an insertion portion 21 that is inserted into the opening 12 of the armrest 10. Inside the insertion portion 21, as shown in Figures 5A and 5B, there is a power receiving coil 22 which is a second power receiving unit, and by inserting it into the opening 12, it can receive power from the power transmitting coil 14c.
[0048] The table device 20 is equipped with a USB port 25 (an example of a power jack) capable of supplying power to external components, such as mobile phones, smartphones, and music players. The occupant can supply power to the external components by connecting the USB terminal of a USB cable extending from the external component to the USB port 25. The USB port 25 is just an example and may be a power strip.
[0049] The insertion portion 21 is provided with a latch 27, and the table device 20 can be fixed by inserting the insertion portion 21 into the opening 12. A latch lock release portion 28 is also provided to release the latch 27, allowing the occupant to release the latch 27 and remove the table device 20 from the armrest 10. Furthermore, the connection portion 11 of the armrest 10 and the insertion portion 21 of the table device 20 are the same size (same specifications), so it is also possible to insert and fix the table device 20 directly into the fitting portion 2.
[0050] <Installation on vehicle seats> The armrest 10 is attached to a fitting portion 2 provided on the door trim DT or side wall SW, but this is just one example, and the armrest 10 may also be attached to a vehicle seat S. As shown in Figure 1, fitting portions 2 may be provided on the backs of the driver's seat S1 and the passenger seat S2, and the armrest 10 may be attached to them.
[0051] Alternatively, the MID seats S3 and S4 may be folded and the functional component 1 may be attached. As shown in Figure 6, the MID seats S3 and S4 are seats that allow the seat cushion 31, which is the seat portion, to be raised after the seat back 30 has been folded forward. When the seat cushion 31 of the MID seats S3 and S4 is raised, the back surface 31a of the seat cushion 31 is exposed. As shown in Figure 6, a fitting portion 2 capable of supplying power is provided on the back surface 31a. A table device 20 may be attached to the fitting portion 2 and used as a table. Alternatively, a monitor device 20A with a video display function may be attached as a second functional component.
[0052] The mounting structure for a functional component and interior components of the first embodiment of the present invention have been described above with reference to the figures. As examples of functional component 1, an armrest 10, a table device 20, and a monitor device 20A were described, but this is just an example, and the functional component may be, for example, a lighting device or a cup holder with a heating and cooling function. In addition, power was supplied from the armrest 10 to the table device 20 by wireless power supply, but power may also be supplied by directly contacting electrodes.
[0053] <<Second Embodiment>> The configuration of a vehicle shade device, which is a second embodiment of the present invention, will be described below. The second embodiment relates to a vehicle shade device, and more particularly to a vehicle shade device installed on a vehicle window.
[0054] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2008-184106 discloses a shade formed to have a light-shielding rate of 50% or more and 70% or less.
[0055] However, in recent years, vehicle interiors have come to be used for a variety of purposes, and when it is necessary to ensure shielding from the outside, there has been a demand for shades with lower transmittance and higher light-blocking capabilities. On the other hand, there is also a demand for higher transmittance when driving, so there has been a need for shades with adjustable light-blocking capabilities.
[0056] <Problems the invention aims to solve> The vehicle shade device of the second embodiment was made in view of the above-mentioned problems, and its purpose is to provide a vehicle shade device in which the light-shielding rate (transmittance) can be adjusted.
[0057] <Means for solving the problem> The aforementioned problem is solved by the vehicle shade device of the second embodiment, which includes a first light-shielding component provided on the interior side of the vehicle's window glass, and a second light-shielding component provided at a predetermined distance from the first light-shielding component and having a different transmittance than the first light-shielding component.
[0058] By providing a first light-blocking component and a second light-blocking component with a different transmittance at a distance from each other, it becomes possible to adjust the transmittance. For example, the transmittance can be adjusted by replacing the second light-blocking component. By changing the transmittance, the light-blocking rate can also be adjusted, making it possible to provide a vehicle shade device with adjustable light-blocking rate.
[0059] Furthermore, according to the above-described vehicle shade device, the first light-shielding component is preferably formed to create a predetermined pattern on the interior side of the window glass. By painting a specific pattern on the interior side of the window glass, the decorative aspect can be enhanced, and the pattern can be used to create a visual effect.
[0060] Furthermore, according to the above-described vehicle shade device, the second light-shielding component is a shade provided on the interior side of the window glass and is preferably movable in the vertical direction. By making the second light-shielding component, which has a different transmittance than the first light-shielding component, movable in the vertical direction, it becomes possible to adjust the transmittance more easily.
[0061] Furthermore, according to the above-described vehicle shade device, the second light-shielding component is preferably formed such that its transmittance changes as it moves from top to bottom. By varying the transmittance of the second light-blocking component in the vertical direction, for example, the boundary between the second light-blocking component and the window glass can be made more natural, improving the overall appearance.
[0062] Furthermore, the above-mentioned vehicle shade device is preferably formed such that the transmittance decreases as you move from top to bottom. By making the light transmission rate lower towards the bottom, and thus the light-blocking rate higher, it becomes more difficult for the occupants to see outside the vehicle, allowing them to take in light without worrying about being seen from outside.
[0063] According to the vehicle shade device of the second embodiment, the transmittance can be adjusted by providing a first light-blocking component and a second light-blocking component with different transmittances at a distance from each other. For example, the transmittance can be adjusted by replacing the second light-blocking component. By changing the transmittance, the light-blocking rate can also be adjusted, thus providing a vehicle shade device with adjustable light-blocking rate. Furthermore, by painting a specific pattern on the interior side of the window glass, the decorative aspect can be enhanced, and the pattern can be used to create a visual effect. Furthermore, by making the second light-shielding component movable in the vertical direction, it becomes possible to adjust the transmittance more easily. By varying the transmittance of the second light-blocking component in the vertical direction, for example, the boundary between the second light-blocking component and the window glass can be made more natural, improving the overall appearance. Furthermore, by lowering the light transmittance towards the bottom, and thus increasing the light-blocking rate, it becomes more difficult for occupants to see outside the vehicle, allowing them to take in light without worrying about being seen from the outside.
[0064] A shade device according to a second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. However, the embodiments described below are provided to facilitate understanding of the present invention and do not limit it. That is, the present invention can be modified and improved without departing from its spirit, and of course, equivalents thereof are included in the present invention. Furthermore, the descriptions below regarding the materials, shapes, and sizes of the components constituting the vehicle shade device are merely examples and do not limit the present invention.
[0065] In the following, we will describe a shade device installed on a vehicle (vehicle V), such as a minivan, as an example of a shade device for vehicles. However, the present invention is not limited to shade devices for vehicles mounted on ground-running vehicles with wheels, such as automobiles and trains, but can also be applied to shade devices mounted on aircraft, ships, and other vehicles that move on surfaces other than the ground.
[0066] Furthermore, in the following explanation, "forward / backward direction" refers to the forward / backward direction of the vehicle V, which coincides with the direction of travel when the vehicle is in motion. "Width direction" refers to the width direction of the vehicle V, which coincides with the left-right direction as viewed from an occupant seated in a vehicle seat S. "Up-down direction" refers to the up-down direction of the vehicle V, which coincides with the vertical direction when the vehicle V is traveling on a horizontal plane. Additionally, "outside" simply refers to the side closer to the outside when moving outward from the center of the vehicle, while "inside" refers to the side closer to the center when moving from the outside of the vehicle V towards the center. Finally, "inside" refers to the direction towards the interior of the vehicle.
[0067] Figures 1 and 2 show the interior of a vehicle V equipped with a shade device SH, which is a second embodiment. The shade device SH is installed so as to overlap the window W of the vehicle V. Inside the vehicle V, the driver's seat S1 and passenger seat S2, the second row MID seats S3 and S4, and the third row 3rd seats S5 and S6 are arranged in order from the front to the rear of the vehicle V. In the following, unless otherwise distinguished, the driver's seat S1, passenger seat S2, MID seats S3 and S4, and 3rd seats S5 and S6 may be collectively referred to as seats S. A rear gate RG is provided behind the 3rd seats S5 and S6.
[0068] The shade device SH consists of a first light-shielding component 41 and a second light-shielding component 42. The first light-shielding component 41 is installed on the interior side of the window glass 40 of the vehicle door D of the vehicle V, as shown in Figure 7. The second light-shielding component 42 is installed at a predetermined distance L from the first light-shielding component 41. The window glass 40, the first light-shielding component 41, and the second light-shielding component 42 are installed between the door panel DP and the door trim DT, as shown in Figure 7. They may also be installed between the door panel DP and the side wall SW.
[0069] The first light-shielding component 41 and the second light-shielding component 42 are formed to have predetermined transmittances T1 and T2. The transmittance T1 of the first light-shielding component 41 and the transmittance T2 of the second light-shielding component 42 are set to be different.
[0070] In this embodiment, the first light-shielding component 41 is an opaque sheet attached to the interior side of the window glass 40 in a predetermined pattern. The second light-shielding component 42 is realized by making multiple openings 42a in a wooden board (see Figure 8). This is just one example; the first light-shielding component 41 and the second light-shielding component 42 can be, for example, a translucent sheet, an opaque sheet, a mesh sheet, a woven fabric, etc. Synthetic resins such as polyvinyl chloride resin and polypropylene resin may also be used.
[0071] Furthermore, the first light-blocking component 41 is formed to create a predetermined pattern on the interior side of the window glass 40. Examples of predetermined patterns include louver-shaped patterns. The patterns may also be polka dots, stripes, mesh patterns, checkered patterns, etc., and by overlapping with the second light-blocking component 42, the overall transmittance T can be adjusted, creating an interior space with a pattern.
[0072] The first light-blocking component 41 is movable in accordance with the vertical movement of the window glass 40. The second light-blocking component 42 is also configured to move vertically. The vertical movement of the second light-blocking component 42 may be performed manually by the occupant. Alternatively, the vertical movement of the second light-blocking component 42 may be performed by a drive device installed, for example, inside the door. As the second light-blocking component 42 moves vertically, the transmittance T changes between the portion that overlaps with the first light-blocking component 41 and the portion that does not overlap, allowing the overall transmittance T to be adjusted as a shade device SH. By adjusting the transmittance T, the light-blocking rate can be changed.
[0073] Figure 8 shows a side view of the second light-shielding component 42. The second light-shielding component 42 has openings 42a of different sizes, and is designed so that the transmittance changes from top to bottom. The second light-shielding component 42 shown in Figure 8 has openings 42a that become larger in area towards the top, and is designed so that the transmittance T2 decreases, that is, the light-shielding rate increases, from top to bottom.
[0074] By increasing the transmittance of the upper part of the second light-blocking component 42, the boundary with the window glass 40 can be made more natural. Also, by making the transmittance T2 lower (higher light-blocking rate) towards the bottom, it becomes more difficult for the occupants to see outside the vehicle, allowing them to take in light without worrying about being seen from outside.
[0075] Furthermore, a heat-insulating film 43, such as silver or a half-mirror film, may be applied to the outer surface of the window glass 40. This provides privacy and improves heat insulation.
[0076] The second embodiment of the present invention, a vehicle shade device SH, has been described above with reference to the figures. Although the shade device SH is applied to a vehicle door, this is just one example, and the shade device SH may also be applied to a sunroof.
[0077] <<Third Embodiment>> A third embodiment of the present invention, a vehicle interior structure, will now be described. Japanese Patent Publication No. 2017-114382 discloses a structure in which an operating switch, which is a capacitive sensor, is provided on an interior component such as a door armrest of a vehicle in order to operate vehicle functions. However, in a structure in which the operating switch is provided at a predetermined position on an interior component, there is a problem that the operating switch may be far from the occupant and difficult to operate depending on the occupant's seating position.
[0078] <Problems the invention aims to solve> The third embodiment of the vehicle's interior structure was developed in view of the above-mentioned problems, and its purpose is to provide a vehicle's interior structure in which the operating parts are positioned appropriately regardless of the occupant's seating position.
[0079] <Means for solving the problem> The aforementioned problem is solved by, according to the interior structure of the vehicle of the third embodiment, in an interior structure of a vehicle equipped with an interior member having a touch panel that accepts touch operations from an occupant, wherein the touch panel includes a display unit capable of displaying an operation unit corresponding to a predetermined function of the vehicle at a predetermined position, and the position of the operation unit within the display unit is controlled according to the height of the seat provided in the vehicle interior.
[0080] Furthermore, in the above-described interior structure for the vehicle, the seat is switchable in steps or continuously between at least a normal seating position and a position lower than the normal seating position, and the touch panel display unit is capable of displaying the operation unit at least at the upper end and lower end of the interior member. The display units provided at the upper end and lower end may be provided as an integral part or as separate parts. The aforementioned control unit is displayed at the upper end of the interior member when the seating position is normal. When the seating position is lower than normal, it is displayed at the lower end of the interior member.
[0081] <Effects of the invention> According to the third embodiment of the vehicle's interior structure, the display position of the control unit can be changed according to the seating position, and the control unit is positioned appropriately regardless of the occupant's seating position.
[0082] <Specific Examples> A specific example of the third embodiment will be described using Figures 9 to 12. Figure 9 shows the passenger compartment in work mode, viewed from the rear. Figure 10 shows the operating section 63 displayed at the upper end of door D3 in work mode. Figure 11 shows the state of the passenger compartment in relaxation mode. Figure 12 shows the operating section 63 displayed at the lower end of door D3 in relaxation mode.
[0083] The vehicle interior in work mode will be explained using Figure 9. An upper table 51 extends from the right-side door D3 into the vehicle interior on a cantilevered beam. The occupant can work or study by sitting in the left-side vehicle seat, MID seat S4. At this time, the right-side MID seat S3 is flat and can be used to place luggage or other items.
[0084] The door lining 50 (an example of an interior component) provided on the right-side door D3 has touch panels 60 (display units) at its upper and lower ends, and an operation unit 63 is displayed in the appropriate position on the touch panel 60 depending on the state of the vehicle seat. The touch panel 60 has an upper touch panel 61 provided on the upper end of the door lining 50 and a lower touch panel 62 provided on the lower end of the door lining 50. The touch panel 60 is, for example, a capacitive sensor type switch, and when an occupant touches the touch panel 60, a signal can be sent to the ECU provided on the vehicle. The touch panel 60 is also a touch panel display, and a liquid crystal monitor (display unit) is provided behind the capacitive sensor. By displaying icons on the liquid crystal monitor, it is possible to indicate which part can be touched to perform the operation.
[0085] The control unit 63 can be displayed on either the upper touch panel 61 or the lower touch panel 62. Furthermore, the display position of the control unit 63 can be changed steplessly in the forward and backward directions. The control unit 63 has switches 64 for operating various functions provided in the vehicle, and the function of each switch 64 is made clear to the occupant by displaying icons. For example, switch 64a allows operation of the vehicle seat's reclining function; touching it adjusts the tilt angle of the backrest. Switch 64b allows operation of the vehicle seat's sliding function; touching it allows the seat to slide forward and backward. Switch 64c allows operation of the air conditioner, and switch 64d allows operation of the airflow, etc. The number of switches 64 displayed on the control unit 63 is not limited to four; it may be five or more, or three or less. Also, the operable functions may not be limited to vehicle seats and air conditioners, but may include, for example, lighting devices, window opening and closing, door locking functions, etc.
[0086] The control unit 63 can change its display position within the touch panel 60 according to the height of the vehicle seat. Specifically, in work mode, when the occupant is seated in the left-side MID seat S4 and working on the upper table 51, the control unit 63 is displayed at the upper edge of the door lining 50, which is a position where it can be operated by reaching out. Not only in work mode, but also during normal driving, the display of the control unit 63 at the upper edge of the door lining 50 makes it easy for the occupant to use the control unit.
[0087] In relaxation mode, the right-side MID seat S3 is reclined, as shown in Figure 11. In this case, the control panel 63 is displayed on the lower end of the door lining 50 (lower touch panel 62), as shown in Figures 11 and 12. The control panel 63 is positioned below the lower table 52, allowing the occupant to use the control panel 63 in a relaxed state without having to sit up.
[0088] <<Fourth Embodiment>> A fourth embodiment of the present invention, a vehicle interior structure, will now be described. Japanese Patent Publication No. 2017-114382 discloses a structure in which an operating switch, which is a capacitive sensor, is provided on an interior component such as a door armrest of a vehicle in order to operate vehicle functions. On the other hand, in some cases, attachments such as tables may be provided on the surface of the interior component of a vehicle. In this case, as disclosed in Japanese Patent Publication No. 2017-114382, in a structure in which the operating switch is provided at a predetermined position on the interior component, there is a problem that the operating switch may become far from the occupant and difficult to operate depending on the occupant's seating position.
[0089] <Problems the invention aims to solve> The fourth embodiment of the vehicle's interior structure was made in view of the above-mentioned problems, and its purpose is to provide a vehicle's interior structure in which the display position of the control unit can be changed according to the attachment, and the control unit can be properly operated without being obstructed by the attachment.
[0090] <Means for solving the problem> The aforementioned problem is solved by the interior structure of the vehicle according to the fourth embodiment, in an interior structure of a vehicle equipped with an interior member having a touch panel that accepts touch operations from an occupant, wherein the touch panel has a display unit capable of displaying an operation unit corresponding to a predetermined function of the vehicle at a predetermined position, and the interior member has a mounting unit to which an attachment can be attached, and the display position of the operation unit is controlled in conjunction with the presence or absence of the attachment or the attachment that is attached. The attachment is a flat table, and it is preferable to display the operating unit in a position that is not hidden by the table once the table is inserted into the attachment. Furthermore, the seat can be switched between a normal seating position and a position lower than the normal seating position in a stepped or continuously variable manner, the touch panel display unit can display controls at least at the upper and lower ends of the interior member, and when a table is attached while the seat is in a lower seating position than normal, the controls should be displayed below the table. Furthermore, the attachment should be equipped with a battery, and the display unit should be configured to display the remaining battery level of the attachment.
[0091] <Effects of the invention> According to the fourth embodiment of the vehicle interior structure, the display position of the control unit can be changed according to the attachment, and the vehicle interior structure can be provided that allows the control unit to be operated appropriately without being obstructed by the attachment.
[0092] <Specific Examples> A specific example of the fourth embodiment will be described using Figures 9 to 12. The door D4 used in the interior structure of the fourth embodiment is provided with an upper table 51 and a lower table 52 that extend from the door lining 50 toward the interior of the vehicle. In work mode, the upper table 51 extends as shown in Figure 9, and in relaxation mode, the lower table 52 extends as shown in Figure 10. The door lining 50 displays an operation unit 63 via a touch panel 60, similar to the third embodiment. The configuration of the touch panel 60 and the operation unit 63 is the same as that of the third embodiment, so a detailed explanation will be omitted.
[0093] The door lining 50 is provided with mounting portions 53 for attaching either the upper table 51 or the lower table 52. In the fourth embodiment, the operating unit 63 is configured such that its display position is controlled in conjunction with the position to which it is attached to the mounting portion 53 provided on the door lining 50.
[0094] As shown in Figure 9, when the upper table 51 is attached to the upper mounting part 53, the operation unit 63 is displayed on the upper touch panel 61. When the lower table 52 is attached to the lower mounting part 53, the operation unit 63 is displayed on the lower touch panel 62. In this case, if the operation unit 63 is displayed below the lower table 52, it becomes easier for an occupant seated in the reclined MID seat S3 to operate the operation unit 63 because it is not obstructed by the lower table 52.
[0095] In addition, the upper table 51 and lower table 52 may be equipped with batteries, and it would be convenient if the remaining battery level were displayed on the touch panel 60.
[0096] <<Fifth Embodiment>> A fifth embodiment of the present invention, a vehicle interior structure, will now be described. Japanese Patent Publication No. 2017-114382 discloses a structure in which an operating switch, which is a capacitive sensor, is provided on an interior component such as a door armrest of a vehicle in order to operate vehicle functions. On the other hand, in passenger vehicles and shared cars in particular, there is a possibility that an unspecified number of passengers may touch the operating switch, and it is desirable that such an operating switch be kept in a regularly cleaned state.
[0097] <Problems the invention aims to solve> The fifth embodiment of the vehicle's interior structure was made in view of the above-mentioned problems, and its purpose is to provide a vehicle's interior structure that recognizes when a display unit has been touched by an occupant, and clarifies whether cleaning is necessary and where it should be cleaned.
[0098] <Means for solving the problem> The aforementioned problem is solved by, according to the interior structure of the fifth embodiment of a vehicle, in an interior structure of a vehicle equipped with an interior member having a touch panel that accepts touch operations from an occupant, wherein the touch panel has a display unit capable of displaying an operation unit corresponding to a predetermined function of the vehicle at a predetermined position, and the display unit is controlled to change color for a certain period of time after being touched by the occupant. Furthermore, the display unit may be controlled to change color when the display unit is cleaned. Furthermore, the control unit should be displayed within the display unit in a position where it cannot be touched by the occupant.
[0099] <Effects of the invention> According to the fifth embodiment of the vehicle's interior structure, the color of the display part changes, which makes it clear to the occupants that it has been touched, thus providing a vehicle interior structure that clarifies whether cleaning is necessary and where it should be cleaned.
[0100] <Specific Examples> A specific example of the fifth embodiment will be explained using Figure 13. Figure 13 shows a touch panel 60 on which an operating section 63 provided on door D5 is displayed. The upper section shows the state of the operating section 63 before it is touched by an occupant, and the lower section shows the state of the operating section 63 after it has been touched.
[0101] As shown in the upper part of Figure 13, when the system is not accepting touch input from the occupant, the area around the switch 64 displays the same color as, for example, the door lining 50. Therefore, the occupant can recognize that the control unit 63 is not being touched. When an occupant touches the control unit 63, the control unit 63 is displayed in a color different from the surrounding color. For example, as shown in the lower part of Figure 13, the background color of each switch icon changes. The difference in color of the control unit 63 from the surrounding color allows the occupant to recognize that the control unit 63 has been used. When the door lining 50 is cleaned, it may be possible to return it to its original color by pressing a button on the occupant's device. Alternatively, it may be set to automatically return to its original color after a certain period of time.
[0102] Furthermore, if the control unit 63 is touched by a crew member, the display position of the control unit 63 may be displayed in a different location on the touch panel 60 that has not been touched by the crew member.
[0103] <<Sixth Embodiment>> A sixth embodiment of the present invention, a vehicle interior structure, will now be described. Japanese Patent Publication No. 2017-114382 discloses a structure in which an operating switch, which is a capacitive sensor, is provided on an interior component such as a door armrest of a vehicle in order to operate vehicle functions. Conventionally, such operating switches have not been designed with consideration for cooperation with external terminals such as mobile communication terminals. Convenience would be improved if the display of the operating switch could be changed based on communication with an external terminal such as a mobile communication terminal.
[0104] <Problems the invention aims to solve> The sixth embodiment of the vehicle's interior structure was made in view of the above-mentioned problems, and its purpose is to provide a vehicle's interior structure that can change the display of the control panel based on communication from a mobile communication terminal.
[0105] <Means for solving the problem> The aforementioned problem is solved by providing an interior structure for a vehicle equipped with an interior component having a touch panel that accepts touch operations from an occupant, wherein the touch panel includes a display unit capable of displaying an operation unit corresponding to a predetermined function of the vehicle at a predetermined position, and is configured to allow control of the display of the operation unit based on communication from a mobile communication terminal.
[0106] Furthermore, the seat installed in the vehicle is switchable between a normal mode, which is at least the normal seating position, and a relaxation mode, which is a position lower than the normal seating position. The control unit is equipped with a changeover switch for switching between the normal mode and the relaxation mode, and when the seat is in the relaxation mode, the display on the control unit may be changed when a predetermined communication is received from the mobile communication terminal. The predetermined communication includes information from a mobile communication terminal outside the vehicle indicating an intention to return to the vehicle. When the display unit receives the information, it may highlight the toggle switch on the operation unit to return from the relaxation mode to the normal mode, or change the display to show the toggle switch in an easily accessible position. Furthermore, it may display a message indicating that the user outside the vehicle is returning to the vehicle.
[0107] <Effects of the invention> According to the sixth embodiment of the vehicle interior structure, it is possible to provide a vehicle interior structure that can change the display of the control panel based on communication from a mobile information terminal, thereby improving user convenience.
[0108] <Specific Examples> A specific example of the sixth embodiment will be described using Figure 14. Figure 14 shows the upper end of a vehicle door D6 whose display can be changed based on communication from a mobile information terminal. The upper end of the vehicle door D, more specifically the upper end of the door lining 50 located on the interior side of the vehicle door D6, is where the touch panel 60 is provided. An operation unit 63 is displayed on the touch panel 60. The configuration of the touch panel 60 and the operation unit 63 is the same as that of the touch panel 60 in the third embodiment, so a detailed explanation is omitted.
[0109] The touch panel 60 is a touch panel display, and its display content is controlled by an ECU (not shown) installed inside the vehicle. When the ECU receives a message from a mobile terminal located outside the vehicle, it is possible to display a message 65 above the operation unit 63, as shown in Figure 14. The content of the displayed message 65 may be the content sent from the mobile terminal as is. Alternatively, a predetermined message may be displayed depending on the transmitted signal.
[0110] Furthermore, if the vehicle is in relaxation mode, and the ECU receives a specific message, such as a message to return to the vehicle, the mode switch on the control panel 63 to return from relaxation mode to normal mode may be highlighted. In addition, the display position of the control panel 63 may be changed so that the mode switch is in a position that is easy for the occupant to operate.
[0111] <<Seventh Embodiment>> A seventh embodiment of the present invention, a vehicle interior structure, will now be described. Japanese Patent Publication No. 2017-114382 discloses a structure in which an operating switch, which is a capacitive sensor, is provided on an interior component such as a door armrest of a vehicle in order to operate the functions of the vehicle. In conventional operating switches, operating buttons are grouped together to operate multiple vehicle functions, and the operating switch, which groups together the operating buttons, is provided at a predetermined position on the interior component. As a result, the occupant had to reach for the predetermined position each time they wanted to operate it, which was inconvenient.
[0112] <Problems the invention aims to solve> The seventh embodiment of the vehicle's interior structure was developed in view of the above-mentioned problems, and its purpose is to provide a vehicle's interior structure in which the part that serves as the operating switch (operating unit) can be removed and used as a remote controller inside the vehicle.
[0113] <Means for solving the problem> The aforementioned problem is solved by the seventh embodiment of the vehicle interior structure, which includes an interior member having a touch panel that accepts touch operations from an occupant, wherein the touch panel is provided on an operating device configured to communicate with the vehicle's control device, and the operating device is configured to be housed in a storage recess provided in the vehicle's interior member.
[0114] Furthermore, it is preferable that multiple storage recesses are formed in the interior components of the vehicle. The interior components of the vehicle include, for example, interior trim such as door linings and pillars, or the instrument panel. Furthermore, the operating device is preferably equipped with a rechargeable battery and configured to be powered from a power supply unit provided in the storage recess.
[0115] <Effects of the invention> According to the seventh embodiment of the vehicle interior structure, the part that serves as the operating switch (operating unit) can be removed, and a vehicle interior structure can be provided that can be used as a remote controller inside the vehicle.
[0116] <Specific Examples> A specific example of the seventh embodiment will be described using Figure 15. Figure 15 shows an operating device 66 that is detachably attached to the door D7. The operating device 66 has a touch panel display on the operating surface that the occupant touches, and can display the operating section 63. The operating section 63 of the operating device 66 displays multiple switches 64a to 64d, similar to the operating section 63 of the third embodiment, and allows the user to operate various functions of the vehicle.
[0117] The operating device 66 is equipped with a wireless communication unit and is configured to communicate wirelessly with the ECU (control unit) installed in the vehicle. Wireless communication may be established using a short-range wireless connection such as Bluetooth® or Wi-Fi®. Alternatively, data may be transmitted and received between the operating device 66 and the ECU using infrared light.
[0118] The operating device 66 can be stored in a storage recess 67 formed in the door lining 50 of the door D7. The operating device 66 can also be easily attached and detached by the occupant and used as a remote controller anywhere in the vehicle. The operating device 66 is secured to the storage recess 67, for example, using magnets. Similar storage recesses 67 are also provided in other interior trims within the vehicle. The occupant can remove the operating device 66 from the door D7 and attach it to a storage recess 67, for example, in the instrument panel.
[0119] The operating device 66 is powered by a built-in primary battery or rechargeable battery. If the operating device 66 is equipped with a rechargeable battery, power may be supplied to the rechargeable battery from a power supply unit provided in the storage recess 67. The operating device 66 may also be automatically charged when it is stored in the storage recess 67.
[0120] In this way, by detachably mounting the operating device 66 on the door D7, the occupant can operate it from anywhere inside the vehicle, improving the comfort of the vehicle interior.
[0121] <<Eighth Embodiment>> The eighth embodiment of the present invention, a vehicle, will now be described. Japanese Patent Publication No. 2009-125276 discloses a technology that illuminates a seated passenger with light so that the passenger wakes up after a predetermined time has elapsed since the passenger began to fall asleep. On the other hand, in recent years, it has been proposed to utilize the interior space of a vehicle as a workspace or a relaxing living space, and there is a need to use lighting devices not only to wake the passenger but also to improve the passenger's comfort in the interior space.
[0122] <Problems the invention aims to solve> The eighth embodiment of the vehicle was developed in view of the above-mentioned problems, and its purpose is to provide a vehicle that can provide lighting according to how the occupants use the interior space, thereby improving the occupants' comfort inside the vehicle.
[0123] <Means for solving the problem> The aforementioned problem is solved by the eighth embodiment of the vehicle, which includes seats, interior components, and a lighting device in the interior space, and which stores a plurality of pre-registered mode information containing positional information of the seats and interior components in the interior space, and by having the occupant select one of the plurality of mode information to adjust the position of the seats and interior components in the interior space, wherein the plurality of mode information includes at least a concentration mode that promotes the occupant's concentration and a relaxation mode that promotes the occupant's relaxation, and when the concentration mode is selected by the occupant, the illumination light from the lighting device is directed towards the occupant's central field of vision, and when the relaxation mode is selected, the illumination light is directed towards the occupant's peripheral field of vision.
[0124] Furthermore, in the concentration mode, position information of the seat backrest in an upright position is stored, and when the concentration mode is selected, the lighting may be configured to illuminate the central field of vision of the person seated in the seat. In addition, if a table is provided in front of the occupant, the lighting may be configured to illuminate the table.
[0125] In the relaxation mode, position information of the seat backrest in a reclined position is stored, and when the relaxation mode is selected, the lighting may be configured to illuminate the occupant's peripheral vision from, for example, the side of the vehicle interior. Furthermore, the brightness of the lighting in the relaxation mode should be set lower than that in the concentration mode. Lowering the brightness of the lighting in the relaxation mode can help the occupants relax more. The seat may further include a biosensor that acquires the biological information of the occupant sitting in it, and the brightness, color, and angle of the lighting may be changed according to the information acquired from the biosensor.
[0126] <Effects of the invention> According to the vehicle of the eighth embodiment, lighting can be provided according to how the occupants use the interior space of the vehicle.
[0127] <Specific Examples> A specific example of the eighth embodiment of vehicle V8 will be explained using Figures 16A and 16B. Figure 16A shows the vehicle seat and lighting device in concentrated mode. Figure 16B shows the lyra This diagram shows the positional relationship between the sheet and the illumination range when in close-up mode. The upper diagram is a side view, and the lower diagram is a top view.
[0128] Vehicle V8 is equipped with a vehicle seat S8 and multiple lighting devices 86a and 86b in its interior space. The vehicle seat S8 has a seat body 80 on which an occupant H sits, and the seat body 80 has a seat cushion 81 that supports the occupant H's buttocks and a seat back 82 that serves as the occupant H's backrest. The lower end of the seat back 82 and the rear end of the seat cushion 81 are connected by a reclining mechanism, making it possible to recline the seat back 82 relative to the seat cushion 81.
[0129] Furthermore, the seat body 80 is mounted to the vehicle floor F8 in a height-adjustable manner. Specifically, the seat body 80 is supported on the vehicle floor by a support member 84, and the height of the seat body 80 is changed by moving the support member 84 up and down.
[0130] Furthermore, a leg support member 83 is rotatably provided in front of the seat body 80, allowing it to support the occupant H's thighs in accordance with the height of the seat body 80. The leg support member 83 can be stored in a storage recess 85 formed in the vehicle floor F8.
[0131] The vehicle V8 stores pre-registered mode information that indicates the state of the vehicle seat S8 within the interior space. Multiple mode information is stored, for example, in the memory unit of the in-vehicle mode adjustment system installed in the vehicle V8. The in-vehicle mode adjustment system is performed, for example, by the ECU installed in the vehicle V8, as well as the reclining mechanism and height adjustment mechanism.
[0132] The occupant H can select one of several mode options registered in the in-vehicle mode adjustment system using an input device installed in the vehicle, such as a button or touch panel. Based on the selected mode option, the in-vehicle mode adjustment system adjusts the recline angle and height of the vehicle seat S8 in the interior space, as well as the position of the interior lighting device 86a. The mode options include a concentration mode to encourage occupant H's concentration and a relaxation mode to encourage occupant H's relaxation.
[0133] The position from which the lighting system emits illumination light should be set based on the crew member's effective field of vision. Human vision is classified into central vision (88) and peripheral vision (89). Central vision (88) is the area where visual acuity is high and fine details can be seen, while peripheral vision (89) is the area outside of central vision (88) where visual acuity is low. In the case of vertical vision, central vision (88) is the center of the field of vision (CS) (a single point without eye movement). The peripheral field of view (89) extends approximately 20 degrees upwards and 20 degrees downwards from the fixed point of view. Each of these has a range of approximately 30 degrees, while the peripheral field of view 89 has a range of approximately 30 to 100 degrees to the left and right.
[0134] When the concentration mode is selected, as shown in Figure 16A, the table T is positioned in front of the occupant H, and the vehicle seat S8 is in an upright position with the seat back 82 in the upright position. The position is adjusted to a height that allows the occupant H to read or work, and the leg support member 83 rotates and is stored in the storage recess 85. At this time, the lighting device 86a illuminates the occupant H's central field of vision 88, more specifically, the occupant's hands. As shown in Figure 16A, if the table T is in front of the occupant H, the lighting may be directed towards the table T. By illuminating the occupant's central field of vision 88, the occupant H can concentrate on reading or working.
[0135] When the relaxation mode is selected, as shown in Figure 16B, the height of the seat body 80 becomes lower than in the concentration mode, and the seat back 82 tilts further backward. Furthermore, the front of the seat cushion 81 is raised, allowing the occupant H to sit in a relaxed position. The seat position information for the relaxation mode is stored in advance. When the relaxation mode is selected, the lighting device 86b located on the side of the vehicle interior emits illumination light towards the illumination range IA which includes the occupant's peripheral field of view 89.
[0136] By illuminating the peripheral field of view 89 while avoiding the central field of view 88 of the occupant H, the occupant H can be guided to a state of calm. In this case, setting the brightness of the illumination lower than in the concentration mode can further guide the occupant H to a state of calm. The brightness of the lighting may be set to a predetermined level for relaxation mode. For example, a lower brightness level may be set than the brightness level for touring mode. If the seat is equipped with a biosensor that acquires the occupant's biometric information (e.g., heart rate, pulse wave, electrocardiogram, etc.), the brightness and irradiation angle of the illumination light of the lighting device 86a may be changed according to the biometric information acquired from the biosensor. The eighth embodiment of vehicle V8 can provide lighting according to how the occupant H uses the interior space, thereby improving the comfort of the interior.
[0137] <<Ninth Embodiment>> A vehicle, which is the ninth embodiment of the present invention, will now be described. Japanese Patent Publication No. 2009-125276 discloses a technique for irradiating a seated occupant with light so that the occupant wakes up after a predetermined time has elapsed since the occupant began to fall asleep. However, the technique disclosed in the above document does not take into account light from outside the vehicle, and since sleep is disturbed when light enters from outside the vehicle, the situations in which it can be used are limited, and there is room for improvement to prevent sleep from being disturbed by light from outside the vehicle.
[0138] <Problems the invention aims to solve> The ninth embodiment of the vehicle was developed in view of the above-mentioned problems, and its purpose is to provide a vehicle in which the occupants can sleep regardless of the conditions outside the vehicle, and which can comfortably wake the occupants after a predetermined period of time has elapsed.
[0139] <Means for solving the problem> The aforementioned problem is solved by the ninth embodiment of the vehicle, which includes a sunshade capable of blocking light from outside the vehicle and a seat, wherein the sunshade is provided on the interior side of a glass provided on the vehicle body so as to be movable vertically by a shade driving means, the seat can be tilted to a predetermined upright position by a seat back driving means after a time set by a time setting means has elapsed, and the shade driving means operates to gradually lower the sunshade after the set time has elapsed.
[0140] Furthermore, the shade driving means may move the shade upward in response to the occupant's operation or at the start of the passage of time, thereby shielding the glass. Furthermore, the seatback driving means may tilt the seatback to a predetermined angle in response to the occupant's operation or as time progresses.
[0141] Furthermore, the predetermined angle of the seatback may be set according to the set time. For example, if it is for a short break, setting the predetermined angle to a shallower angle will make it easier for the occupant to stand up. Furthermore, it is preferable to tilt the seatback to an upright position after a predetermined time has elapsed since the operation of lowering the sunshade. This gradually brightens the interior of the car and allows the occupants to wake up naturally before they are forced to stand up. Furthermore, the vehicle may be equipped with sensors capable of detecting the brightness or angle of light from outside the vehicle, and the height of the sunshade may be controlled based on the detection results of the sensors.
[0142] <Effects of the invention> According to the ninth embodiment of the vehicle, it is possible to provide a vehicle in which the occupants can sleep regardless of the external conditions and can be comfortably awakened after a predetermined period of time.
[0143] <Specific Examples> A specific example of the ninth embodiment, vehicle V9, will be explained using Figure 17. Figure 17 is a diagram showing the positional relationship between the sun LS, which is the light source, and the sunshade SH9. Vehicle V9 is equipped with a sunshade SH9 installed on the window W9 of the door 9 that can block out light from outside the vehicle, and a vehicle seat S9 installed on the floor F9. The sunshade SH9 is installed on the interior side of the window W9 glass so as to be movable vertically by a shade driving mechanism (not shown). The vehicle seat S9 consists of a seat cushion and a seat back, and the tilt angle of the seat back relative to the seat cushion can be changed by a reclining mechanism (seat back driving means).
[0144] The vehicle seat S9 is capable of tilting the seat back to a predetermined upright position via a reclining mechanism after a time set by the time setting means has elapsed. The reclining mechanism and the shade driving means work in conjunction to gradually lower the sunshade SH9 when the seat back is in the upright position, i.e., after the set time has elapsed. In relaxation mode, the sunshade blocks light from the light source, allowing the occupant to sleep regardless of the conditions outside the vehicle. After a predetermined period of time, the sunshade is lowered by a shade drive mechanism, the seatback is moved to an upright position, and light from outside the vehicle is directed at the occupant, allowing them to wake up comfortably. Furthermore, if the vehicle is equipped with a sensor capable of detecting the brightness or angle of light from outside, the height of the sunshade SH9 may be controlled based on the sensor's detection results.
[0145] <<Tenth Embodiment>> A tenth embodiment of the present invention, a seat for a vehicle, will be described. Japanese Patent Publication No. 2009-125276 discloses a vehicle seat that allows the occupant to recline the seat back, lower the seat cushion, and move the ottoman to a position of use when the occupant sleeps inside the vehicle. On the other hand, in order to secure a more spacious interior while allowing for a relaxed posture, it is conceivable to make the seat position of the seat body, which includes the seat back and seat cushion, adjustable. However, if the seat body is equipped with a leg support member (ottoman), the amount by which the seat body can be lowered is limited by the leg support member. Therefore, there was a need to achieve both the provision of a leg support member and the ability to lower the seat position of the seat body.
[0146] <Problems the invention aims to solve> The tenth embodiment of the vehicle seat was made in view of the above-mentioned problems, and its purpose is to provide a vehicle seat that allows the seating position of the seat body to be lowered while providing leg support members.
[0147] <Means for solving the problem> The aforementioned problem is solved by a vehicle seat comprising a seat body and a leg support member, wherein the seat body is switchable between at least a normal seating position and a lowered position lower than the normal seating position, the leg support member is rotatably mounted on the floor and has a pivot axis on its front end, and is configured to move between a usage position where the rear is moved upward and a storage position where it is stored in a recess in the floor, and the leg support member moves to the usage position when the seat body is in the lowered position.
[0148] Furthermore, the seat body can be changed to a relaxed state in the lowered position by tilting the seat back backward and raising the front of the seat cushion upward, and the leg support member should move to the usage position in conjunction with the change of the seat body to the relaxed state.
[0149] Furthermore, the seat body may be equipped with a sensor to measure the physique of the person sitting in it, and the movement angle of the leg support member may be changed according to the measured physique.
[0150] Furthermore, the upper surface of the leg support member should be set to the same height as the floor in the stowed position. When in the stowed position, the upper surface of the leg support member and the floor are flush, which helps to prevent the occupant's feet from getting caught.
[0151] Furthermore, the upper surface of the leg support member may be provided so as to protrude above the storage position, or so as to be adjustable in height to protrude upward. This allows the occupant to use the leg support member as a footrest when the seat body is in the normal seating position.
[0152] <Effects of the invention> According to the tenth embodiment of the vehicle seat, since a leg support member is provided on the floor, the seating position of the seat body can be lowered independently of the position of the leg support member. Therefore, it is possible to provide a vehicle seat that allows the seating position of the seat body to be lowered while still providing a leg support member.
[0153] <Specific Examples> A vehicle seat S, which is a specific example of the tenth embodiment, will be described with reference to Figure 18. Figure 18 is a schematic diagram illustrating the configuration of a vehicle seat installed in a vehicle. The upper section shows the seat body 100 in the normal seating position, and the lower section shows the seat body 100 in the lowered position.
[0154] The vehicle seat S has a seat body 100 on which an occupant H sits. The seat body 100 has a seat cushion 101 that supports the occupant H's buttocks and a seat back 102 that serves as the occupant H's backrest. The seat back 102 is tiltably connected to the seat cushion 101. Specifically, the lower end of the seat back 102 and the rear end of the seat cushion 101 are connected by a reclining mechanism, allowing the seat back 102 to be tilted backward.
[0155] The seat body 100 is mounted to the vehicle floor F in a height-adjustable manner, and can be switched between the normal seating position shown in the upper part of Figure 18 and the lowered position shown in the lower part of Figure 18. Specifically, a support member 104 that supports the seat body 100 and can move up and down is provided on the seat cushion 101, and the seating position of the seat body 100 can be changed by moving the support member 104 up and down using the height adjustment function.
[0156] When the seat body 100 is in the lowered position, the seat back 102 reclines backward. In addition, the front part of the seat cushion 101 lifts upward, allowing the seated occupant H to relax.
[0157] The vehicle seat S is equipped with a leg support member 103 at the front of the seat body 100. The leg support member 103 is rotatably mounted on the vehicle floor F by a pivot mechanism (not shown). The leg support member 103 has a pivot shaft 103a at its front, and by rotating it around the pivot shaft, the rear end can be moved upward to the usable position. In addition, the vehicle floor F is provided with a storage recess 105 for housing the leg support member 103, and as shown in the upper part of Figure 19, the leg support member 103 can be stored in the vehicle floor F as a storage position.
[0158] When the seating position of the seat body 100 is switched from the normal seating position to the lowered position, the leg support member 103 rotates by the rotation mechanism and moves to the position of use. The rear end of the leg support member 103 moves upward to support the calf of the occupant H.
[0159] The seat body 100 may have sensors to measure the occupant's physique. For example, an infrared sensor or a pressure sensor may be placed on the seating surface to measure the occupant's weight and leg length. The rotation angle of the leg rest can be changed according to the measured physique.
[0160] The upper surface of the leg support member 103 is configured to be at the same height as the vehicle floor F10. Therefore, when the leg support member 103 is retracted, it is possible to prevent the occupant H's feet from getting caught on the leg support member 103.
[0161] Thus, since the leg support member 103 is provided separately from the seat body 100, the seating position of the seat body 100 can be lowered regardless of the state of the leg support member 103. In other words, even in a vehicle seat S10 in which the seating position of the seat body 100 can be lowered to near the vehicle floor F10, the leg support member 103 can be provided.
[0162] An alternative example of the first embodiment and a second embodiment are described below. (Note 1) A mounting structure for a functional component to be attached to the interior components of a vehicle, The aforementioned functional component comprises a first functional component attached to a fitting portion of the interior member that can supply power, and a second functional component attached to the first functional component. The first functional component has an opening for connecting the second functional component, The mounting structure for a functional component is characterized in that the second functional component has an insertion portion that is inserted into the opening. (Note 2) The fitting portion of the interior member is formed in a predetermined groove shape. The mounting structure for a functional component according to Appendix 1, characterized in that the first functional component has a protruding connecting portion that can be fitted into the fitting portion, formed according to the predetermined groove shape. (Note 3) The mounting structure for a functional component according to Appendix 2, characterized in that the fitting portion of the interior member is provided inside a recess that is recessed from the surface of the interior member, and a flap is provided around the opening of the recess. (Note 4) The first functional component includes a first power receiving unit that receives power from the fitting portion, and a power supply unit that supplies power to the first functional component and the second functional component. The mounting structure for a functional component according to Appendix 1, characterized in that the second functional component has a second power receiving unit that receives power from the first functional component when the insertion portion is inserted into the opening. (Note 5) The mounting structure for a functional component as described in Appendix 4, characterized in that the power supply unit has a power transmission coil, the second power receiving unit of the second functional component is a power receiving coil, and power is supplied non-contact from the power supply unit of the first functional component to the second power receiving unit of the second functional component by bringing the power receiving coil close to the power transmission coil. (Note 6) The mounting structure for the functional component described in Appendix 1, characterized in that the second functional component includes a table portion, and the table portion is foldable. (Note 7) The mounting structure for the functional component described in Appendix 1, characterized in that the interior component is a door trim for a vehicle. (Note 8) The mounting structure for the functional component described in Appendix 1, characterized in that the interior component is a seat for a vehicle. (Note 9) The mounting structure for a functional component as described in Appendix 3, wherein the interior component is a vehicle seat that can be raised and folded, the back surface of the seat is provided with the recess, and the inside of the recess is provided with the fitting portion for attaching the connecting portion of the first functional component and / or the insertion portion of the second functional component. (Note 10) An interior component having a mounting structure for a functional component as described in any one of the appendices 1 to 9. (Note 11) A first light-shielding component is provided on the interior side of the vehicle's window glass, A vehicle shade device characterized by comprising a first light-shielding component and a second light-shielding component provided at a predetermined distance from the first light-shielding component, the second light-shielding component having a different transmittance than the first light-shielding component. (Note 12) The vehicle shade device according to Appendix 11, characterized in that the first light-shielding component is formed to create a predetermined pattern on the interior side of the window glass. (Note 13) The vehicle shade device according to Appendix 11, characterized in that the second light-shielding component is a shade provided on the interior side of the window glass and is movable in the vertical direction. (Note 14) The vehicle shade device according to Appendix 11, characterized in that the second light-shielding component is formed such that its transmittance changes from top to bottom. (Note 15) The vehicle shade device according to Appendix 14, characterized in that the second light-shielding component is formed such that its transmittance decreases from top to bottom. [Explanation of Symbols]
[0163] V Vehicle DT Door Trim D Door RG Rear Gate SW side wall S Seat S1 Driver's Seat S2 Passenger Seat S3, S4 MID seat S5, S6 3rd seat W window SH Shade Device P Pad T epidermis 1. Functional parts 2. Fitting part 3 recesses 4 flaps 5 Power supply mechanism 6 Magnetic field 10. Armrest (First Functional Component) 10a base material 11 Connection part 12 Openings 13. First Power Receiving Unit 14 Power supply section 14a First power supply circuit 14b Second power supply circuit 14c power transmission coil 15. Energy Storage Unit 16 speakers 17 Latch 20 Table device (second functional component) 21 Insertion part 22 Power receiving coil (second power receiving section) 23 Table section 24 Hinge 25 USB ports 27 Latch 28 Latch release mechanism 30 Seatback 31 Seat Cushion 31a back side 40 Window glass 41 First light-shielding component 42 Second light-shielding component 42a aperture 43 film D3 Vehicle Door 50 Door Lining 51 Upper table 52 Lower Table 53 Mounting part 60 Touch panel (display unit) 61 Upper touch panel 62. Lower touch panel 63 Operation section 64, 64a~64d switches 65 messages 66 Operating device 67 Storage recess V8 vehicles F8 Car Body Floor S8 Vehicle Seat CS (Center of Vision) IA illumination range 80-seat main unit 81 Seat Cushion 82 Seatback 83 Leg support member 84 Support Member 85 Storage recess 88 central vision 89 Peripheral field of view V9 Vehicle W9 Window S9 Vehicle Seat SH9 Sunshade (Shade Device) LS Sun (light source) S10 Vehicle Seats (Seats for Vehicles) F10 Car body floor (floor) 100 sheets (main unit) 101 Seat Cushion 102 Seatback 103 Leg support member 103a Rotary shaft 104 Support part 105 Storage recess
Claims
1. A mounting structure for a functional component to be attached to the interior components of a vehicle, The functional component comprises a first functional component attached to the fitting portion of the interior member that can supply power, and a second functional component attached to the first functional component. The first functional component includes a first power receiving unit that receives power from the fitting portion, a power storage unit that stores power, a power supply unit that supplies power to the first functional component and the second functional component, and an opening for connecting the second functional component. The mounting structure for a functional component is characterized in that the second functional component has an insertion portion that is inserted into the opening, and a second power receiving portion that receives power from the first functional component while the insertion portion is inserted into the opening.
2. The mounting structure for a functional component according to claim 1, wherein the power supply unit has a first power supply circuit for supplying power to the first functional component and a second power supply circuit for supplying power to the second functional component, and the first power supply circuit and the second power supply circuit are switchable.
3. The mounting structure for a functional component according to claim 1, characterized in that the power supply unit has a power transmission coil, the second power receiving unit of the second functional component has a power receiving coil, and power is supplied from the power supply unit of the first functional component to the second power receiving unit of the second functional component in a non-contact manner by bringing the power receiving coil close to the power transmission coil.
4. The mounting structure for a functional component according to claim 1, characterized in that the second functional component has a table portion and is equipped with a power jack capable of supplying power from the first functional component to an external component.
5. The mounting structure for a functional component according to claim 4, characterized in that the table portion of the second functional component is foldable.
6. The mounting structure for a functional component according to claim 1, characterized in that the first functional component has a speaker function.
7. The mounting structure for a functional component according to claim 1, characterized in that the interior component is a door trim for a vehicle.
8. The mounting structure for a functional component according to claim 1, characterized in that the interior component is a seat for a vehicle.
9. The mounting structure for a functional component according to claim 8, characterized in that the vehicle seat is a seat that can be raised and folded, and the underside of the seat is provided with a power supply fitting portion for attaching the first functional component and / or the second functional component.
10. An interior component comprising a mounting structure for a functional component as described in claim 1.