Seat system and vehicle interior system

Abstract

Provided is a seat system (SY1) that can improve the maneuverability of a character. The seat system (SY1) comprises: a seat cushion (11); a seat back (12); a headrest (13); a movable member (seat back 12) including an armrest or an ottoman, the movable member being movable with respect to the seat cushion (11); a display unit (monitor M); and a control unit (CN1). The control unit (CN1) displays the character by the display unit and moves the character in accordance with movement of the movable member.

Description

Seat systems and vehicle interior systems

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a seating system including a seat and a control, and a vehicle interior system including the seating system.

[0002] Conventionally, a seat system is known that includes a seat, a pressure sensor that detects pressure from a user seated in the seat, and a control unit that operates a character on the screen based on a signal from the pressure sensor (see JP 2020-175808 A).

[0003] However, with conventional technology, the occupant had to move their body to apply pressure to the seat surface in order to move the character, which meant that even if the occupant moved their body, the pressure was not transmitted properly to the seat surface, making it impossible to control the character.

[0004] It is desired to provide a seat system that can improve the operability of characters.

[0005] In view of the above, a seat system is disclosed that includes a seat cushion, a movable member including any one of a seat back, a headrest, an armrest, and an ottoman, the movable member being movable relative to the seat cushion, a display unit, and a control unit. The control unit displays a character on the display unit and moves the character in accordance with the movement of the movable member.

[0006] According to this configuration, the character moves by moving the movable member that is movable relative to the seat cushion, thereby improving the operability of the character.

[0007] The seat system may further include a sensor that detects the movement of the movable member, and the control unit may move the character based on information obtained from the sensor.

[0008] The control unit may also change the speed of the character's movement based on information obtained from the sensor.

[0009] The seat system may also include an operating unit for operating the movable member and an electric device for moving the movable member, and the control unit may operate the electric device based on an operation command output from the operating unit, and move the character according to the operation command or the amount of operation of the electric device.

[0010] According to this configuration, the control unit moves the character in response to an operation command or the amount of operation of the electric device, so there is no need to provide a sensor to detect the movement of the movable member, which reduces costs.

[0011] The control unit may also estimate the level of fatigue of a user seated in the seat, display the estimated level of fatigue as the character's fatigue status on the display unit, and change the fatigue status according to the movement of the movable member.

[0012] The movable member may be a seat back that rotates relative to the seat cushion, and the control unit may lower the fatigue status on the condition that the angle of the seat back relative to the seat cushion becomes equal to or greater than a predetermined value.

[0013] The seat system may also include a plurality of seats, and the control unit may move the character in accordance with the movement of each of the movable members of the plurality of seats.

[0014] With this configuration, when each user seated on multiple seats moves a movable member, the character moves in accordance with the movement of each movable member on the multiple seats, allowing each user to enjoy cooperative play, for example.

[0015] The movable member may be a rotatable armrest, and the control unit may move the character according to the amount of rotation of the armrest.

[0016] The seat system may further include a switch for switching the control unit between a first mode and a second mode, and the control unit may be configured to perform a synchronization process for moving the character in accordance with the movement of the movable member in the first mode, and not to perform the synchronization process in the second mode.

[0017] The control unit may be configured not to execute the synchronization process when a vehicle collision is predicted based on information from a collision detection unit provided in the vehicle.

[0018] According to this configuration, the synchronization process is not executed when the vehicle is about to collide, so that the user can, for example, assume a posture in preparation for a collision.

[0019] Furthermore, a conventional system has been known that includes a switch for operating an in-vehicle device, a light source for illuminating the switch, and a control unit that acquires gaze information indicating the gaze of an occupant from a driver monitoring system (see JP 2023-114492 A). In this system, the control unit determines whether the occupant's gaze is in the direction in which the switch is located, and controls the light source based on this determination result, thereby making it possible to improve the visibility of the switch.

[0020] However, while conventional techniques can improve the visibility of switches and improve switch operability, they lack entertainment value.

[0021] Therefore, it is desired to provide a vehicle interior system that can enhance entertainment value.

[0022] In consideration of the above background, a vehicle interior system is disclosed that includes a first electric device that is activated by energization, a second electric device that is activated by energization, an operation unit for operating the first electric device, a control unit that operates the first electric device with a first operation based on an operation command from the operation unit, and a motion detection unit that detects a user's action to operate the operation unit. The control unit is capable of determining whether or not the user intends to operate the operation unit based on information acquired from the motion detection unit, and when it determines that the user intends to operate the operation unit, the control unit operates the first electric device with a second operation different from the first operation, or executes a tamper process to operate the second electric device.

[0023] With this configuration, when the user attempts to operate the operating unit, the first electric device operates in a second operation different from the first operation, or the second electric device operates, thereby surprising the user and increasing the entertainment value.

[0024] In addition, the motion detection unit may be capable of detecting the user's line of sight, and the control unit may determine that the user has an intention to operate the device when it determines, based on information obtained from the motion detection unit, that the user's line of sight is directed toward the operation unit for a predetermined period of time.

[0025] In addition, the motion detection unit may be capable of detecting the position of the user's hand, and the control unit may determine that the user has an intention to operate when it determines, based on information obtained from the motion detection unit, that the user's hand has approached the operation unit.

[0026] The vehicle interior system may also include a seat on which a user can sit, and the second electric device may be a device that moves at least a portion of the seat. In this case, at least a portion of the seat may be movable between a first position and a second position that is farther from the operation unit in the front-to-rear direction than the first position or a second position that is different from the first position in a direction perpendicular to the front-to-rear direction, and the control unit may operate the second electric device in the tamper processing to move at least a portion of the seat from the first position to the second position.

[0027] According to this configuration, when a user attempts to operate the operating unit, at least a portion of the seat moves from the first position to the second position, thereby interfering with the user's operation, thereby enhancing entertainment value.

[0028] The second position may be farther from the operating unit in the front-rear direction than the first position.

[0029] The vehicle interior system may include a seat on which a user can sit, and the second electric device may be a device for moving the operating unit. In this case, the operating unit may be movable between a third position and a fourth position that is farther from the seat in the front-to-rear direction than the third position, or a fourth position that is different from the third position in a direction perpendicular to the front-to-rear direction, and the control unit may operate the second electric device in the tamper processing to move the operating unit from the third position to the fourth position.

[0030] According to this configuration, when a user attempts to operate the operation unit, the operation unit moves from the third position to the fourth position, thereby interfering with the user's operation, thereby enhancing entertainment value.

[0031] The fourth position may be farther from the seat in the front-rear direction than the third position.

[0032] The vehicle interior system may also include a screen capable of displaying a character. When executing the mischief process, the control unit may display on the screen an image of the character interfering with the operation of the operation unit.

[0033] According to this configuration, when the mischief process is executed, an image of the character interfering with the operation of the operation unit is displayed on the screen, which can further enhance the entertainment value.

[0034] The vehicle interior system may further include a projection device capable of projecting a character around the operation unit. When executing the mischief process, the control unit may execute a projection process in which the projection device projects the character around the operation unit.

[0035] According to this configuration, when a prank process is executed, a character is projected around the operation unit, which can further enhance the entertainment value.

[0036] The vehicle interior system may also include a first seat and a second seat disposed in front of the first seat and having an operation unit on a rear surface thereof, and the second electric device may be a device for moving the second seat in a forward / backward direction. In this case, the control unit may operate the second electric device to move the second seat forward in the tamper processing.

[0037] With this configuration, when a user seated in the first seat attempts to operate the operating unit, the second seat moves forward, moving the operating unit away from the user, thereby interfering with the user's operation and increasing entertainment value.

[0038] Furthermore, the control unit may prohibit the execution of the tampering process when it predicts a vehicle collision based on information from a collision detection unit provided in the vehicle.

[0039] According to this configuration, when the vehicle is about to collide, the execution of the mischief process is prohibited, so that the user can, for example, take a posture in preparation for the collision.

[0040] The vehicle interior system may also include a switch for switching the control unit between a first mode in which the tampering process is not performed and a second mode in which the tampering process is performed.

[0041] Furthermore, a system has been known in the past that displays an imaginary arrow on the windshield to guide the driver's line of sight in the direction of travel of the vehicle (see Japanese Patent No. 5622818).

[0042] However, the conventional technology only guides the driver's gaze in the direction of travel of the vehicle, and therefore lacks entertainment value.

[0043] Therefore, it is desired to provide a vehicle interior system that can enhance entertainment value.

[0044] In view of the above background, a vehicle interior system in another aspect includes an interior member for a vehicle, a screen, a gaze guiding unit that guides a user's gaze with light, and a control unit. The control unit displays a moving image on the screen in which a character moves from within the screen to outside the screen, and controls the gaze guiding unit based on the movement of the character, thereby guiding the user's gaze from the screen to a destination interior member that is an interior member corresponding to the destination of the character.

[0045] According to this configuration, the line of sight guiding section can guide the user's line of sight to the destination of the character that has moved off the screen, thereby increasing the entertainment value.

[0046] The vehicle interior system may also include an electric device provided in the first interior member, and the control unit may control the electric device based on the movement of the character.

[0047] According to this configuration, the electric device is controlled based on the movement of the character, which increases the entertainment value.

[0048] The line-of-sight guidance unit may also guide the user's line of sight by projecting light in the shape of an arrow pointing toward the destination interior component.

[0049] According to this configuration, the arrow-shaped light guides the user's gaze, so that the user's gaze can be more reliably directed toward the destination interior member.

[0050] In addition, the line-of-sight guidance unit may have a plurality of light-emitting units arranged in a row in a direction from the screen toward the destination interior component, and the control unit may guide the user's line of sight by causing the plurality of light-emitting units to light up in order from the screen side.

[0051] The destination interior member may be the first interior member.

[0052] The electromotive device may also be a vibration device.

[0053] The first interior member may be a seat, and the electric device may change the shape, position, or orientation of the seat.

[0054] Also, a second screen separate from the screen may be further provided, and the destination interior member may be the second screen.

[0055] The vehicle interior system may further include a gaze detection unit that detects the user's gaze, and the control unit may guide the user's gaze toward the destination interior member using the gaze guidance unit, and then determine whether the user's gaze is directed toward the destination interior member based on information acquired from the gaze detection unit, and operate the electric device when it is determined that the user's gaze is directed toward the destination interior member.

[0056] According to this configuration, when the user's line of sight is directed toward the destination interior component, at least a part of the destination interior component moves, so that the user can be prevented from missing the movement of the destination interior component in response to the character's movement.

[0057] The vehicle interior system may further include a gaze detection unit that detects the user's gaze, and the control unit may determine whether the user's gaze is directed toward the screen based on information obtained from the gaze detection unit before moving the character on the screen, and may move the character if it is determined that the user's gaze is directed toward the screen.

[0058] According to this configuration, the character acts when the user's line of sight is directed toward the screen, which reduces the chance that the user will miss the character's action.

[0059] The vehicle interior system may further include a switch for switching the control unit between a first mode and a second mode, and the control unit may be configured to, in the first mode, perform a gaze guidance process by using the gaze guidance unit to guide the user's gaze from the screen toward the destination interior component, and to not perform the gaze guidance process in the second mode.

[0060] The control unit may also be configured not to execute the line-of-sight guidance process when it predicts a vehicle collision based on information from a collision detection unit provided in the vehicle.

[0061] According to this configuration, when the vehicle is about to collide, the gaze guidance process is not executed, so that the user can, for example, assume a posture in preparation for a collision.

[0062] 1 is a diagram showing a seat system according to a first embodiment; FIG. 1(a) is a diagram showing the state of the seat when the reclining angle is less than a predetermined value, and FIG. 1(b) is a diagram showing the screen display at that time; FIG. 1(a) is a diagram showing the state of the seat when the reclining angle is equal to or greater than a predetermined value, and FIG. 1(b) is a diagram showing the screen display at that time; FIG. 1(b) is a flowchart showing the operation of a control unit of the seat system according to the first embodiment; FIG. 1(a) is a diagram showing a seat of a seat system according to a second embodiment; FIG. 1(b) is a flowchart showing the operation of a control unit of the seat system according to the second embodiment; FIG. 1(a) is a diagram showing a seat of a seat system according to a third embodiment, and FIG. 1(b) is a diagram showing the screen display according to the movement of the armrest; FIG. 1(b) is a flowchart showing the operation of a control unit of the seat system according to the third embodiment; FIG. 1(a) is a diagram showing a seat of a seat system according to a fourth embodiment; FIG. 1(b) is a flowchart showing the operation of a control unit of the seat system according to the fourth embodiment; FIG. 1(a) is a diagram showing a seat system according to a fifth embodiment; FIG. 1(b) is a diagram showing a state in which the armrest of the right seat is rotated upward, and the screen display at that time; FIG. 1(b) is a diagram showing a state in which the angles of the armrests of the left and right seats are aligned, and the screen display at that time; 10A is a diagram showing an image of a cat moving the seat back, and FIG. 10B is a diagram showing the state of the seat at that time. FIG. 10B is a diagram showing a monitor and a seat controlled by a control unit of a vehicle interior system according to a second embodiment, and FIG. 10A is a diagram showing an image of a cat hanging from a seat back, and FIG. 10B is a diagram showing the state of the seat at that time. FIG. 10C is a diagram showing a monitor and a seat controlled by a control unit of a vehicle interior system according to a third embodiment, and FIG. 10A is a diagram showing an image of a cat lifting the seat, and FIG. 10B is a diagram showing the state of the seat at that time. FIG. 10A is a perspective view of a vehicle interior system according to a fourth embodiment, and FIG. 10B is a cross-sectional view showing a window switch. FIG. 10B is a flowchart showing the operation of the control unit of the vehicle interior system according to the fourth embodiment.10A and 10B are diagrams showing a vehicle interior system according to a fifth embodiment, in which (a) shows an image of a cat moving an operating unit forward, and (b) shows a state in which a mobile device has moved the operating unit forward. FIG. 10B is a flowchart showing the operation of a control unit of the vehicle interior system according to the fifth embodiment. FIG. 10A is a diagram showing a vehicle interior system according to a sixth embodiment, and (b) shows a state in which an image of a cat is projected around an operating unit. FIG. 10B is a flowchart showing the operation of a control unit of the vehicle interior system according to the sixth embodiment. FIG. 10A is a diagram showing a vehicle interior system according to a seventh embodiment, and (b) shows a state in which the second seat has moved away from the first seat. FIG. 10C is a flowchart showing the operation of a control unit of the vehicle interior system according to the seventh embodiment. FIG. 10B is a diagram showing a vehicle interior system according to an eighth embodiment. FIG. 10C is a diagram showing a state in which a cat is displayed on the first screen. FIG. 10B is a diagram showing a state in which an arrow image is projected in response to the movement of the cat moving toward the second screen. FIG. 10C is a diagram showing a state in which a cat is displayed on the second screen and the seatback of the second seat has tilted backward. FIG. 10D is a diagram showing a state in which an arrow image is projected in response to the movement of the cat moving toward the third screen. FIG. 10D is a diagram showing a state in which a cat is displayed on the third screen and the seatback of the third seat has tilted forward. FIG. 10C is a diagram showing a state in which an arrow image is projected in response to the movement of the cat moving toward the fourth screen. FIG. 12 is a diagram showing a state in which a cat is displayed on the fourth screen. FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing the operation of a control unit of a vehicle interior system according to an eighth embodiment. FIG. 14 is a diagram showing a vehicle interior system according to a ninth embodiment. FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing the operation of a control unit of a vehicle interior system according to the ninth embodiment. FIG. 16 is a diagram showing a vehicle interior system according to a tenth embodiment. FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing the operation of a control unit of a vehicle interior system according to the tenth embodiment.

[0063] [First Embodiment of Seat System] Hereinafter, a first embodiment of a seat system will be described with reference to the drawings. As shown in Fig. 1, the seat system SY1 includes a seat SE1 on which a user can sit, a monitor M as an example of a display unit, a camera 30 as an example of a collision detection unit, a mode selector switch 63, and a control unit CN1. The seat SE1, the monitor M, the camera 30, and the mode selector switch 63 are interior components arranged in a vehicle, more specifically, in positions facing the passenger compartment.

[0064] The seat SE1 includes a seat body B1, a reclining mechanism RC, an operating lever LV1, and a sensor SS1.

[0065] The seat body B1 is a member having a seating surface that supports the user. The seat body B1 includes a seat cushion 11, a seat back 12 as an example of a movable member, and a headrest 13. The seat cushion 11, the seat back 12, and the headrest 13 each include a metal frame that forms a framework, a pad that covers the frame, and a surface that covers the pad. The pad is made of urethane foam or the like. The surface is made of synthetic leather, fabric, or the like. The upper surface of the seat cushion 11 forms the seating surface. The front surfaces of the seat back 12 and the headrest 13 form the seating surfaces.

[0066] The seat back 12 is rotatable relative to the seat cushion 11. Specifically, the seat back 12 is rotatably supported by the seat cushion 11 via a reclining mechanism RC.

[0067] The reclining mechanism RC is a mechanism for prohibiting or allowing rotation of the seat back 12 relative to the seat cushion 11. The reclining mechanism RC is switchable between a locked state that prohibits rotation of the seat back 12 and a released state that allows rotation of the seat back 12. The reclining mechanism RC has a spring that biases the seat back 12 forward.

[0068] The operating lever LV1 is a lever for switching the state of the reclining mechanism RC. The operating lever LV1 is rotatable between a locked position shown in FIG. 1 and an unlocked position where it is rotated upward from the locked position.

[0069] When the operating lever LV1 is in the lock position, the reclining mechanism RC is in a locked state, and when the operating lever LV1 is in the release position, the reclining mechanism RC is in a released state.

[0070] The sensor SS1 detects the movement of the seat back 12. More specifically, the sensor SS1 detects the reclining angle. Here, the reclining angle refers to the angle of the seat back 12 relative to the seat cushion 11. More specifically, the reclining angle is the angle between the seat surface of the seat cushion 11 and the seat surface of the seat back 12. The reclining angle decreases as the seat back 12 tilts forward, and increases as the seat back tilts backward. For example, a sensor having a variable resistor whose electrical resistance changes depending on the reclining angle can be used as the sensor SS1.

[0071] The monitor M has a screen SC1 (see FIG. 2) that displays an image. The image displayed on the monitor M can be changed by the control unit CN1. The monitor M can be placed on the dashboard, for example, below the rearview mirror. A user seated in the seat SE1 can view the screen SC1 of the monitor M.

[0072] The camera 30 is a camera that captures images of the area ahead of the vehicle. Image information captured by the camera 30 is output to the control unit CN1.

[0073] The mode selector switch 63 is a switch for switching the mode of the control unit CN1 between a first mode and a second mode. Here, the first mode is a mode in which a synchronization process described below is executed. Also, the second mode is a mode in which a synchronization process is not executed. The mode selector switch 63 is, for example, a push button switch. The mode selector switch 63 alternates between an ON state and an OFF state each time the user presses it.

[0074] The mode changeover switch 63 is provided on the dashboard, but may also be provided on another interior member, for example, the seat SE1.

[0075] The control unit CN1 is configured to include, for example, a CPU, RAM, ROM, input / output circuits, etc. The control unit CN1 may be provided on the seat SE1 or on a member other than the seat SE1. The control unit CN1 is connected to the monitor M, the camera 30, the mode selector switch 63, and the sensor SS1.

[0076] The control unit CN1 has a function of displaying a cat character on the screen SC1 and executing synchronization processing to move the cat in accordance with the movement of the seat back 12. In the synchronization processing, the control unit CN1 moves the cat on the screen SC1 based on information acquired from the sensor SS1.

[0077] Specifically, as shown in Figures 2(a) and 2(b), when the reclining angle acquired from sensor SS1 is less than a predetermined value, control unit CN1 displays a video of a cat walking on screen SC1. As shown in Figures 3(a) and 3(b), when the reclining angle acquired from sensor SS1 is equal to or greater than a predetermined value, control unit CN1 displays a video of a cat sleeping.

[0078] The control unit CN1 executes the synchronization process in the first mode, and does not execute the synchronization process in the second mode.

[0079] The controller CN1 has a function of estimating the fatigue level of the user seated on the seat SE1. In this embodiment, the controller CN1 assumes that the user is in good health at the start of the first mode and estimates (sets) the fatigue level (initial value) at the start of the first mode to 0.

[0080] The initial value of the fatigue level may be set to a larger value as the time that has elapsed since the ignition switch of the vehicle was turned on increases. The initial value of the fatigue level may also be estimated based on biological information of the user obtained from at least one of a heart rate sensor and a breathing sensor provided in the seat.

[0081] As an example, the control unit CN1 measures the user's sympathetic nerve activity level based on heart rate information acquired from the heart rate sensor. Specifically, the control unit CN1 obtains the ratio (LF / HF) of the low-frequency fluctuation wave (LF) to the high-frequency fluctuation wave (HF) in the heart rate fluctuation as the sympathetic nerve activity level. The control unit CN1 then sets the sympathetic nerve activity level (LF / HF) as the initial value of the fatigue level. In other words, according to the above index, the more active the sympathetic nerve activity is relative to the parasympathetic nerve activity, the higher the user's fatigue level is estimated to be.

[0082] The method for estimating the initial value of the user's fatigue level is not limited to the above example. For example, the control unit CN1 may determine the user's fatigue level based on the interval between breaths or the arousal level determined based on the breath (at least a level indicating whether the user is in an arousal state or a low arousal state) based on information acquired from the breathing sensor. Specifically, the shorter the interval between breaths of the user, the higher the fatigue level may be determined, or the higher the fatigue level may be determined when the user's arousal level is in a low arousal state.

[0083] The control unit CN1 has a function of displaying the estimated fatigue level as the cat's fatigue status on the screen SC1 and changing the fatigue status according to the movement of the seat back 12. Specifically, as shown in Figures 2(a) and 2(b), the control unit CN1 raises (increases) the fatigue status displayed on the screen SC1 when the reclining angle acquired from the sensor SS1 is less than a predetermined value. As shown in Figures 3(a) and 3(b), the control unit CN1 lowers (decreases) the fatigue status displayed on the screen SC1 when the reclining angle acquired from the sensor SS1 is equal to or greater than a predetermined value.

[0084] In this embodiment, the fatigue status is displayed on the screen SC1 as an increasing / decreasing gauge. In Figure 2 or Figure 3, the gauge showing the fatigue status is shown by hatching with dots. The gauge expands to the right as the fatigue level increases, and contracts to the left as the fatigue level decreases.

[0085] Furthermore, the control unit CN1 is configured not to execute the synchronization process when a vehicle collision is predicted based on information from the camera 30.

[0086] Next, the operation of the control unit CN1 will be described in detail. The control unit CN1 repeatedly executes the process shown in FIG.

[0087] 4, the control unit CN1 first determines whether the mode changeover switch 63 is ON (S1). If it is determined in step S1 that the mode changeover switch 63 is not ON (No), the control unit CN1 sets the mode to the second mode and ends this process (S11).

[0088] If it is determined in step S1 that the mode changeover switch 63 is ON (Yes), the control unit CN1 determines (S2) whether or not there is a possibility of a vehicle collision based on information from the camera 30. If it is determined in step S2 that there is a possibility of a vehicle collision (Yes), the control unit CN1 sets the mode to the second mode and ends this process (S11).

[0089] If it is determined in step S2 that there is no possibility of a vehicle collision (No), the control unit CN1 sets the mode to the first mode (S3) and determines whether or not it is the start time of the first mode (S4). That is, in step S4, the control unit CN1 determines whether or not it is the time when the mode has been switched from the second mode to the first mode.

[0090] If it is determined in step S4 that the first mode has started (Yes), the control unit CN1 sets the initial value of the fatigue level to 0 (S5). After step S5, or if it is determined in step S4 that the first mode has not started (No), the control unit CN1 acquires the reclining angle from the sensor SS1 (S6).

[0091] After step S6, the control unit CN1 determines whether the reclining angle is equal to or greater than a predetermined value (S7). If it is determined in step S7 that the reclining angle is equal to or greater than the predetermined value (Yes), the control unit CN1 displays an image of a fatigue level status according to the fatigue level and an image of a sleeping cat on the screen SC1 (S8).

[0092] After step S8, the control unit CN1 counts down the fatigue level (S9). After step S9, the control unit CN1 changes the display of the fatigue level status in accordance with the fatigue level (S10), and ends this process.

[0093] If it is determined in step S7 that the reclining angle is not equal to or greater than the predetermined value (No), the control unit CN1 displays an image of a fatigue level status according to the fatigue level and an image of a waking cat on the screen SC1 (S12). After step S12, the control unit CN1 counts up the fatigue level (S13). After step S13, the control unit CN1 changes the display of the fatigue level status according to the fatigue level (S10), and ends this process.

[0094] Next, a specific example of the operation of the control unit CN1 will be described. As shown in Fig. 1, when the reclining angle is less than a predetermined value and the control unit CN1 is in the second mode, if a user seated in the seat SE1 turns on the mode selector switch 63, an image of a cat waking up will be displayed on the screen SC1, as shown in Fig. 2(b). At the time the user turns on the mode selector switch 63, the gauge indicating the fatigue status is at 0 (no dots are hatched).

[0095] If the user leaves the seat SE1 in this state for a while, the fatigue status gauge will gradually fill up to the right. The time it takes for the gauge to fill from 0 to MAX can be set to a fairly long time, such as one or two hours.

[0096] When the gauge approaches MAX, the user can see this display and recognize that fatigue is building up. When a tired user rotates the operating lever LV1 upward to tilt the seat back 12 backward, as shown in Figure 3(a), and the reclining angle reaches a predetermined value or more, the display on screen SC1 changes to an image of a sleeping cat, as shown in Figure 3(b), and the fatigue status gauge gradually decreases over time. This allows the user to recognize that their fatigue is recovering.

[0097] As described above, according to this embodiment, the following effects can be obtained: The cat character moves when the user moves the seat back 12, which improves the operability of the character.

[0098] If the vehicle is about to collide, the synchronization process is not performed, allowing the user to prepare for a collision, for example.

[0099] [Second Embodiment of Seat System] Next, a second embodiment of the seat system will be described in detail with reference to the drawings as appropriate. Note that this embodiment is a partial modification of the structure of the seat SE1 of the seat system according to the first embodiment described above, and therefore, the same components as those in the first embodiment of the seat system will be designated by the same reference numerals and their description will be omitted.

[0100] As shown in Figure 5, the seat SE2 of the seat system of the second embodiment has each of the components of the seat SE1 of the seat system of the first embodiment, and further includes an ottoman 14 as an example of a movable member, a pivoting mechanism 15, a second operating lever LV2, and a second sensor SS2.

[0101] The ottoman 14 is a member that supports the user's calves. The ottoman 14 has a metal frame that forms the skeleton, a pad that covers the frame, and a cover that covers the pad. The ottoman 14 is rotatably supported on the front end of the seat cushion 11 via a rotation mechanism 15.

[0102] The rotation mechanism 15 is a mechanism for prohibiting or allowing rotation of the ottoman 14 relative to the seat cushion 11. The rotation mechanism 15 is switchable between a locked state that prohibits rotation of the ottoman 14 and a released state that allows rotation of the ottoman 14. The rotation mechanism 15 has a spring that biases the ottoman 14 upward.

[0103] The second operating lever LV2 is a lever for switching the state of the rotation mechanism 15. The second operating lever LV2 is rotatable between a locked position shown in Fig. 5 and an unlocked position where it is rotated upward from the locked position.

[0104] When the second operating lever LV2 is in the lock position, the rotation mechanism 15 is in a locked state. When the second operating lever LV2 is in the release position, the rotation mechanism 15 is in a released state.

[0105] The second sensor SS2 is a sensor that detects the movement of the ottoman 14. More specifically, the second sensor SS2 detects the ottoman angle. Here, the ottoman angle refers to the angle of the ottoman 14 relative to the seat cushion 11. More specifically, the ottoman angle is the angle between the underside of the seat cushion 11 and the underside of the ottoman 14. The ottoman angle increases as the ottoman 14 approaches a horizontal position, and decreases as the ottoman 14 tilts downward relative to the horizontal position. As the second sensor SS2, for example, a sensor having a variable resistor whose electrical resistance changes depending on the ottoman angle can be used.

[0106] The control unit CN1 executes the process of Fig. 6. The process of Fig. 6 includes new steps S31 to S33 in addition to steps S1 to S5 and S7 to S13 in the process of Fig. 4.

[0107] After step S5, or if the determination in step S4 is No, the controller CN1 acquires information (the reclining angle and the ottoman angle) from the sensor SS1 and the second sensor SS2 (S31), and proceeds to the process of step S7. After step S9, the controller CN1 determines whether the ottoman angle is equal to or greater than a second predetermined value (S32).

[0108] If it is determined in step S32 that the ottoman angle is equal to or greater than the second predetermined value (Yes), the control unit CN1 counts down the fatigue level (S33) and proceeds to the process of step S10. If it is determined in step S32 that the ottoman angle is not equal to or greater than the second predetermined value (No), the control unit CN1 proceeds directly to the process of step S10.

[0109] According to the second embodiment, when the reclining angle is equal to or greater than the predetermined value and the ottoman angle is less than the second predetermined value, the fatigue level is counted down only in step S9, and the fatigue level gauge decreases at a predetermined rate. In contrast, when the reclining angle is equal to or greater than the predetermined value and the ottoman angle is equal to or greater than the second predetermined value, the fatigue level is counted down twice, in steps S9 and S33, and the fatigue level gauge decreases at a rate faster than the predetermined rate.

[0110] This allows the rate at which the fatigue status gauge decreases to correspond to the user's actual degree of recovery from fatigue, which corresponds to the shape of the seat SE2. In other words, the user can stretch out and relax more easily when the seat back 12 is tilted back and the ottoman 14 is in a horizontal position than when only the seat back 12 is tilted back with the front end of the ottoman 14 facing downwards. Therefore, by increasing the rate at which the gauge decreases in this case, the rate at which the gauge decreases can be made to correspond to the user's actual degree of recovery from fatigue.

[0111] [Third embodiment of seat system] Next, a third embodiment of the seat system will be described in detail with reference to the drawings as appropriate. Note that this embodiment is a partial modification of the structure of the seat SE1 of the seat system according to the first embodiment described above, and therefore, the same components as those in the first embodiment of the seat system will be denoted by the same reference numerals and their description will be omitted.

[0112] As shown in FIG. 7A, a seat SE3 of the seat system according to the third embodiment further includes an armrest 16 as an example of a movable member, and an arm angle sensor SS3 as an example of a sensor.

[0113] The armrest 16 is rotatably supported on the seat back 12. The armrest 16 can be rotated up and down between a first arm position shown in Figure 7(a) where the tip of the armrest 16 faces forward and a second arm position where the tip of the armrest 16 faces upward.

[0114] In this embodiment, the armrest 16 is disposed on the left side surface of the seat back 12. Note that it is sufficient that the armrest is provided on at least one of the left and right sides of the seat back.

[0115] The arm angle sensor SS3 is a sensor that detects the angle (hereinafter also referred to as the "arm angle") of the armrest 16. As the arm angle sensor SS3, for example, a sensor similar to the sensor SS1 of the first embodiment of the seat system can be used.

[0116] 7(b), the control unit CN1 has a function of rotating the left front paw of the cat on the screen SC1 up and down in accordance with the amount of rotation of the armrest 16. If armrests are provided on the left and right sides of the seat back, the control unit may move the right front paw of the cat on the screen up and down in accordance with the movement of the right armrest, and may move the left front paw of the cat on the screen up and down in accordance with the movement of the left armrest.

[0117] The control unit CN1 executes the process of Fig. 8. The process of Fig. 8 includes new steps S51 and S52 in addition to steps S1 to S3 and S11 in the process of Fig. 4.

[0118] After step S3, the control unit CN1 acquires the arm angle from the arm angle sensor SS3 (S51). After step S51, the control unit CN1 displays an image of the cat on the screen SC1 with the angle of the cat's front paws adjusted to the arm angle (S52), and ends this process.

[0119] According to the third embodiment of the seat system, when the user rotates the armrest 16 up and down, the cat's front paws on the screen SC1 move up and down, thereby enhancing entertainment value. Also, in the third embodiment of the seat system, the control unit CN1 displays the image of the cat so that the angle of the cat's front paws matches the arm angle acquired from the arm angle sensor SS3, so the cat's front paws can move at a speed that corresponds to the speed at which the user moves the armrest 16. In other words, the control unit CN1 changes the speed of the cat's movement based on the information acquired from the arm angle sensor SS3, thereby enhancing entertainment value.

[0120] [Fourth embodiment of seat system] Next, a fourth embodiment of the seat system will be described in detail with reference to the drawings as appropriate. Note that this embodiment is a partial modification of the structure of the seat SE1 of the seat system according to the first embodiment described above, and therefore, the same components as those in the first embodiment of the seat system will be denoted by the same reference numerals and their description will be omitted.

[0121] As shown in Figure 9, the seat SE4 of the seat system of the fourth embodiment is equipped with an electric reclining mechanism 40 that is provided in place of the reclining mechanism RC of the first embodiment of the seat system, a reclining switch 61 that is provided in place of the operating lever LV1 of the first embodiment of the seat system, and a reference position sensor SS4 that is provided in place of the sensor SS1 of the first embodiment of the seat system.

[0122] The electric reclining mechanism 40 is an electric device that tilts the seat back 12. The electric reclining mechanism 40 includes a motor that is activated by energization.

[0123] The reclining switch 61 is an operating unit for operating the seat back 12. The reclining switch 61 can be tilted, for example, in the front-to-rear direction. When tilted forward, the reclining switch 61 outputs a forward tilt command to the control unit CN1 to tilt the seat back 12 forward. When tilted rearward, the reclining switch 61 outputs a rearward tilt command to the control unit CN1 to tilt the seat back 12 rearward.

[0124] The reference position sensor SS4 is a sensor that detects whether the seat back 12 is positioned at the reference position shown in Fig. 9. As the reference position sensor SS4, an optical sensor or the like that is less expensive than the sensor SS1 of the first embodiment of the seat system can be used.

[0125] The control unit CN1 has a function of operating the electric reclining mechanism 40 based on an operation command output from the reclining switch 61. Specifically, when the operation command obtained from the reclining switch 61 is a forward tilt command, the control unit CN1 rotates the electric reclining mechanism 40 in one direction to tilt the seat back 12 forward. When the operation command obtained from the reclining switch 61 is a backward tilt command, the control unit CN1 rotates the electric reclining mechanism 40 in the other direction to tilt the seat back 12 backward. The control unit CN1 has a function of moving the cat on the screen SC1 in accordance with the operation command or the amount of operation of the electric reclining mechanism 40.

[0126] The control unit CN1 has a function of activating the electric reclining mechanism 40 to return the seat back 12 to its initial position when the ignition switch is switched from ON to OFF. The control unit CN1 stores the operation history of the reclining switch 61 while the ignition switch is ON. Here, the operation history of the reclining switch 61 may be the history of operation commands output from the reclining switch 61, or the operation history of the electric reclining mechanism 40.

[0127] The operation command history may be, for example, the sum of the time during which a forward tilt command is output (e.g., a positive value) and the time during which a backward tilt command is output (e.g., a negative value). The operation history of the electric reclining mechanism 40 may be, for example, the sum of the time during which the electric reclining mechanism 40 rotates in one direction (e.g., a positive value) and the time during which the electric reclining mechanism 40 rotates in the other direction (e.g., a negative value).

[0128] The control unit CN1 executes the process of Fig. 10. The process of Fig. 10 includes new steps S71 to S74 in addition to steps S1 to S5 and S7 to S13 in the process of Fig. 4.

[0129] After step S5, or if the determination in step S4 is No, the control unit CN1 calculates (S71) the initial reclining angle from the reference position and the operation history of the reclining switch 61. After step S71, the control unit CN1 determines whether or not an operation command has been issued from the reclining switch 61 (S72).

[0130] If it is determined in step S71 that an operation command has been received (Yes), the controller CN1 activates the electric reclining mechanism 40 based on the operation command (S73). After step S73, the controller CN1 calculates the reclining angle based on the initial reclining angle calculated in step S71 and the operation command or the amount of operation of the electric reclining mechanism 40 (S74).

[0131] For example, in step S74, if the operation command is a forward tilt command, controller CN1 calculates the decrease in the reclining angle based on the time during which the forward tilt command is output (or the operating time of electric reclining mechanism 40 operated by the forward tilt command), and calculates the current reclining angle by subtracting the calculated decrease from the initial reclining angle.If the operation command is a backward tilt command, controller CN1 calculates the increase in the reclining angle based on the time during which the backward tilt command is output (or the operating time of electric reclining mechanism 40 operated by the backward tilt command), and calculates the current reclining angle by adding the calculated increase to the initial reclining angle.

[0132] After step S74, or if it is determined in step S72 that there is no operation command (No), the control unit CN1 proceeds to step S7.

[0133] In the fourth embodiment of the seat system, in the first mode, when the user pushes the reclining switch 61 backward for a predetermined time, the electric reclining mechanism 40 rotates in the other direction for a predetermined time, and the reclining angle reaches or exceeds a predetermined position (S7: Yes), and an image of a sleeping cat is displayed (S8). Also, in the first mode, when the user pushes the reclining switch 61 forward for a predetermined time, the electric reclining mechanism 40 rotates in one direction for a predetermined time, and the reclining angle falls below the predetermined position (S7: No), and an image of a waking cat is displayed (S12).

[0134] As described above, according to the fourth embodiment of the seat system, the control unit CN1 moves the cat in accordance with an operation command or the amount of operation of the electric reclining mechanism 40, which eliminates the need to provide a sensor SS1 for detecting each position (angle) of the seat back 12 as in the first embodiment of the seat system, thereby reducing costs.

[0135] Although the reference position sensor SS4 is provided in the fourth embodiment of the seat system, the reference position sensor SS4 may be omitted. In this case, for example, the control unit CN1 may store the angle of the seat back 12 at the time of shipment of the seat SE4 as the reference position, and may store the operation history of the reclining switch 61 each time the reclining switch 61 is operated, thereby constantly grasping the current reclining angle.

[0136] [Fifth Embodiment of Seat System] Next, a fifth embodiment of the seat system will be described in detail with reference to the drawings as appropriate. Note that this embodiment has a structure including two seats SE5 that are substantially the same as the seats SE3 of the seat system according to the third embodiment described above. Therefore, the same components as those in the third embodiment of the seat system will be denoted by the same reference numerals and their description will be omitted.

[0137] As shown in Fig. 11, the seat system SY5 according to the fifth embodiment includes two seats SE5. Each seat SE5 includes a seat cushion 11, a seat back 12, a headrest 13, and an armrest 16, which are substantially the same as those in the seat system according to the third embodiment. In the seat SE5 according to the fifth embodiment of the seat system, the armrest 16 is provided on the right side of the seat back 12. Although not shown, each seat SE5 also includes an arm angle sensor SS3 similar to that in the seat system according to the third embodiment.

[0138] The two seats SE5 are arranged side by side. In the following description, the right seat SE5 will also be referred to as the "first seat 5R," and the left seat SE5 will also be referred to as the "second seat 5L."

[0139] 11, for convenience, the screen SC1 of the monitor M is shown facing the front of the drawing, but in reality, the screen SC1 faces each of the sheets SE5. The center of the screen SC1 in the left-right direction is located between the two sheets SE5.

[0140] The control unit CN1 has a function of moving the cat on the screen SC1 in accordance with the movement of the armrests 16 of the two seats SE5. In this embodiment, as shown in Fig. 12, the control unit CN1 compares the arm angle of the armrest 16 of the first seat 5R on the right side (hereinafter also referred to as the "first arm angle") with the arm angle of the armrest 16 of the second seat 5L on the left side (hereinafter also referred to as the "second arm angle"), and moves the cat so that it lifts its front paws on the seat SE5 side with the larger arm angle.

[0141] Here, the arm angle is 0° when the armrest 16 is in the first arm position (the position where the tip of the armrest 16 faces forward), and becomes larger as the armrest 16 rotates upward from the first arm position.

[0142] Specifically, when the first arm angle is greater than the second arm angle, the control unit CN1 displays on the screen SC1 a video of a cat on the screen SC1 corresponding to the first right seat 5R raising its front paw (the front paw on the right side as seen from the user).When the second arm angle is greater than the first arm angle, the control unit CN1 displays on the screen SC1 a video of a cat on the screen SC1 corresponding to the second left seat 5L raising its front paw (the front paw on the left side as seen from the user).

[0143] Furthermore, as shown in Fig. 13, when the first arm angle and the second arm angle match at an angle greater than 0°, the control unit CN1 displays a video of a cat clapping on the screen SC1. Specifically, the control unit CN1 executes the process of Fig. 14. The process of Fig. 14 includes steps S1 to S3 and S11 in the process of Fig. 4, as well as new steps S91 to S98.

[0144] After step S3, the control unit CN1 displays a home screen on the screen SC1 (S91). The home screen displays, for example, an image of a cat sitting with both front paws down.

[0145] After step S91, the control unit CN1 acquires the first arm angle and the second arm angle from the arm angle sensors SS3 of the left and right seats SE5 (S92). After step S92, the control unit CN1 determines whether the first arm angle and the second arm angle are both 0° (S93).

[0146] If it is determined in step S93 that both arm angles are 0° (Yes), control unit CN1 ends this process. If it is determined in step S93 that both arm angles are not 0° (No), control unit CN1 determines whether the first arm angle is greater than the second arm angle (S94).

[0147] If it is determined in step S94 that the first arm angle is greater than the second arm angle (Yes), the control unit CN1 displays a video of the cat lifting its front paw on the first seat 5R side on the screen SC1 (S95), and ends this process. If it is determined in step S94 that the first arm angle is not greater than the second arm angle (No), the control unit CN1 determines whether the second arm angle is greater than the first arm angle (S96).

[0148] If it is determined in step S96 that the second arm angle is greater than the first arm angle (Yes), the control unit CN1 displays a video of the cat raising its front paw on the second seat 5L side on the screen SC1 (S97), and ends this process. If it is determined in step S96 that the second arm angle is not greater than the first arm angle (No), that is, if the first arm angle and the second arm angle match at an angle greater than 0°, the control unit CN1 displays a video of the cat clapping on the screen SC1 (S98), and ends this process.

[0149] According to the fifth embodiment of the seat system, when each user seated in two seats SE5 moves the armrest 16, the cat moves in accordance with the movement of each armrest 16 of the two seats SE5, allowing each user to enjoy cooperative play.

[0150] Although the fifth embodiment of the seat system has two seats, the number of seats may be three or more.

[0151] The movable member is not limited to the above embodiment, and may be, for example, a headrest that is movable relative to the seat cushion. The headrest may be supported by the seat back so as to be movable, for example, in the up and down direction.

[0152] The electrically powered device may be any of the following devices: a slide mechanism that moves the seat in the forward / backward direction; a height mechanism that moves the seat in the up / down direction; a movable device that changes the shape of the seat by driving a bag (air cell) or plate member that is operated by the inflow of air (for example, a device that operates the left and right protrusions that protrude from the seating surface of the seat cushion or seat back, or a device that operates a part of the seat back or seat cushion seating surface); a side frame front end lifting mechanism that switches the front ends of the side frames of the seat cushion between an up position where they are raised and a down position where they are lowered; a tilt mechanism that moves the cushion pan of the seat cushion up and down; a center-folding mechanism that tilts the upper part of the seat back back and forth; a rotation mechanism that rotates the seat on a vertical axis; a cushion front / rear adjustment mechanism that adjusts the length of the front end of the seat cushion; a mechanism that rotates the ottoman up and down; a mechanism that rotates the armrest up and down; a mechanism that extends and retracts the armrest; a mechanism that switches the armrest between an extended state and a bent state; lighting; a headrest speaker (the headrest speaker may rotate or move in at least one of the forward / backward, left / right, up / down directions). - A heater installed in the seat back or seat cushion - A seat blower, which is a seat air conditioning device that circulates air on the surface of the seat cushion and seat back

[0153] The air cell may be connected to an air pump by an air tube, and may expand and press against the occupant when air is injected. The air cell may be located in the lower back like a lumbar support, or multiple air cells may be provided on the seat to allow for more localized changes in shape.

[0154] The vibration device may be any type, such as one having a motor and harness that emits vibrations, one having an eccentric motor, or one having a linear motor. The vibration device may be provided on a seat cushion, a headrest, etc. The vibration device may be provided on the left and right protrusions of the seat cushion or seat back.

[0155] The display unit may be located anywhere, such as on the instrument panel, center console, steering wheel, meter, seat back, door side, or decorative element. The display unit may also be a projection device that projects an image. The display unit may also be a mobile device such as a smartphone or tablet carried by the seat occupant.

[0156] The movable member may be a member that resembles a part of an animal's body, such as cat ears. The movable member may be made of a raised material. The movable member may be an interior member other than a seat, for example, a vehicle window. In this case, the control unit may display on the screen an expression or words of a cat enjoying cooling off in response to the movement of the vehicle window lowering. In other words, the vehicle interior system may move a character displayed by the display unit in response to the movement of a movable interior member other than a seat.

[0157] The character may be an animal other than a cat, or may be an anthropomorphized character of an object, living thing, etc. The character may be set in advance, and may be, for example, an image of a deformed passenger.

[0158] The vehicle is not limited to an automobile, but may be any other vehicle, such as a motorcycle or a train.

[0159] The collision detection unit may be an inter-vehicle distance sensor that detects the distance between the vehicle and a vehicle ahead.

[0160] Examples of methods for manufacturing a seat system include the following: A method for manufacturing a seat system including a seat cushion, a movable member including any one of a seat back, a headrest, an armrest, and an ottoman, the movable member being movable relative to the seat cushion, a display unit, and a control unit, wherein the control unit displays a character on the display unit and moves the character in accordance with the movement of the movable member, the method comprising the steps of attaching the movable member so that it is movable relative to the seat cushion, and connecting the display unit to the control unit.

[0161] The control unit may increase the degree to which the cat on the screen rolls over based on the reclining angle. For example, the display of the cat may show the cat rolling over and holding a ball, and the control unit may be capable of executing a game in which the user adjusts the reclining angle to adjust the degree to which the cat rolls over, thereby trying not to drop the ball.

[0162] The sensor may be a position sensor that detects the amount of movement of the movable member based on a change in coordinate (change in angle) from a reference position. Position sensors that detect angles may be, for example, rotary sensors or tilt sensors. In the case of a position sensor, it may be embedded in the seat back or the padding of an ottoman, for example.

[0163] The sensor may be a speed sensor that detects whether the moving member is moving at a predetermined threshold speed (for example, determining the speed based on a threshold in about four stages). The speed sensor may be, for example, a MEMS acceleration sensor, a piezoresistive sensor, or a capacitance sensor.

[0164] The display of the fatigue status is not limited to a gauge, and may be displayed numerically. Furthermore, in a gauge-type display, a bar-shaped gauge corresponding to maximum stamina may be displayed when the fatigue level is 0, and the gauge may shorten as the fatigue level increases. In a numerical-type display, for example, the number 0 may be displayed when the fatigue level is 0, and the number may increase from 0 as the fatigue level increases. In a numerical-type display, for example, the maximum number corresponding to maximum stamina may be displayed when the fatigue level is 0, and the number may decrease as the fatigue level increases. Furthermore, the color or shape of the image displayed by the display unit may be changed depending on the fatigue level. For example, as the fatigue level increases, the character's facial expression may change to become more tired.

[0165] The fatigue level may be set to increase, for example, as the distance traveled by the vehicle after the ignition switch is turned on increases.

[0166] In a fifth embodiment of the seat system, the control unit may move the cat on the screen when the armrest of the right seat and the armrest of the left seat are alternately raised and lowered. In this case, the speed of the cat on the screen may increase as the speed at which the armrests are alternately raised and lowered increases.

[0167] [First Embodiment of Vehicle Interior System] Hereinafter, a first embodiment of a vehicle interior system will be described with reference to the drawings. As shown in Fig. 15, a vehicle interior system 101 includes a seat 110 on which a user can sit, a monitor MN as an example of a first electric device, an operation unit 120, a camera 130 as an example of a motion detection unit, and a control unit CN2. The seat 110, the monitor MN, the operation unit 120, and the camera 130 are arranged in the vehicle, more specifically, in positions facing the passenger compartment.

[0168] The seat 110 includes a seat body 110A, an electric reclining mechanism 140, an electric slide mechanism 150 as an example of a second electric device, a reclining switch 161, a slide switch 162, and a mode changeover switch 163.

[0169] The seat body 110A is a member having a seating surface that supports the user. The seat body 110A includes a seat cushion 111, a seat back 112, and a headrest 113. The seat cushion 111, the seat back 112, and the headrest 113 each have a metal frame that forms the framework, a pad that covers the frame, and a surface that covers the pad. The pad is made of urethane foam or the like. The surface is made of synthetic leather, fabric, or the like. The upper surface of the seat cushion 111 forms the seating surface. The front surfaces of the seat back 112 and the headrest 113 each form the seating surface.

[0170] The electric reclining mechanism 140 is a mechanism that tilts the seat back 112. The electric reclining mechanism 140 includes a motor that is activated by energization.

[0171] The electric slide mechanism 150 is a device that moves the seat 110 in the front-rear direction. Here, the seat 110 is supported on slide rails SR so as to be movable in the front-rear direction. The electric slide mechanism 150 is equipped with a motor that is activated by energization. The seat 110 is movable between a first position and a second position that is farther from the operating unit 120 in the front-rear direction than the first position. In this embodiment, the second position is located behind the first position.

[0172] The reclining switch 161 is an operating unit for operating the electric reclining mechanism 140. The reclining switch 161 can be tilted, for example, in the front-to-rear direction. When tilted forward, the reclining switch 161 outputs a forward tilt command to the control unit CN2 to tilt the seat back 112 forward. When tilted rearward, the reclining switch 161 outputs a rearward tilt command to the control unit CN2 to tilt the seat back 112 rearward.

[0173] The slide switch 162 is an operating unit for operating the electric slide mechanism 150. The slide switch 162 is slidable, for example, in the front-to-rear direction. When the slide switch 162 is slid forward, it outputs a forward movement command to the control unit CN2 to move the seat 110 forward. When the slide switch 162 is slid rearward, it outputs a backward movement command to the control unit CN2 to move the seat 110 rearward.

[0174] The mode changeover switch 163 is a switch for switching the mode of the control unit CN2 between a first mode and a second mode. Here, the first mode is a mode in which the mischief processing described below is not executed. Also, the second mode is a mode in which the mischief processing is executed. The mode changeover switch 163 is, for example, a push button switch. The mode changeover switch 163 alternates between an ON state and an OFF state each time the user presses it.

[0175] The monitor MN is an electrically powered device that operates when electricity is applied. The monitor MN has a screen SC2 (see FIG. 17) that displays an image. The image displayed on the monitor MN can be changed by a control unit CN2. The monitor MN can be placed on the dashboard, for example, below the rearview mirror. A user seated in the seat 110 can view the screen SC2 of the monitor MN.

[0176] The operation unit 120 is a switch for operating the monitor MN. The operation unit 120 is, for example, a push-button switch. Each time the user presses the operation unit 120, it alternates between an ON state and an OFF state. When the operation unit 120 is in the ON state, the monitor MN enters an ON state in which an image is displayed on the screen SC2, and when the operation unit is in the OFF state, the monitor MN enters an OFF state in which the image display is erased from the screen SC2.

[0177] The camera 130 is a device that detects the actions of a user who is attempting to operate the operation unit 120. The camera 130 is placed in a position where it can capture an image of the face of a user seated in the seat 110, and is capable of detecting the user's line of sight.

[0178] The control unit CN2 is configured to include, for example, a CPU, RAM, ROM, input / output circuits, etc. The control unit CN2 may be provided in the seat 110, or may be provided in a member other than the seat 110. The control unit CN2 is connected to the monitor MN, the operation unit 120, the camera 130, the electric reclining mechanism 140, and the electric slide mechanism 150.

[0179] The control unit CN2 has a function of operating the monitor MN in a first operation based on an operation command from the operation unit 120. Specifically, when the control unit CN2 receives an operation command (ON command) output from the operation unit 120 that has been switched from an OFF state to an ON state, the control unit CN2 operates the monitor MN so that the monitor MN changes from the OFF state to the ON state. When the control unit CN2 receives an operation command (OFF command) output from the operation unit 120 that has been switched from the ON state to the OFF state, the control unit CN2 switches the monitor MN to the OFF state.

[0180] The control unit CN2 can be switched between a first mode and a second mode by the mode selector switch 163. The second mode is a mode in which the user can interact with the cat displayed on the screen SC2 of the monitor MN shown in Fig. 17 through the sheet. In the following description, the second mode is also referred to as the "cat mode."

[0181] The first mode is a mode in which no image is displayed on the screen SC2, or an image different from that displayed in the cat mode is displayed on the screen SC2. In the following description, the first mode is also referred to as the "normal mode."

[0182] In the cat mode, the control unit CN2 displays a sheet image G1 that resembles the sheet 110 and a character image G2 that resembles a cat as an example of a character on the screen SC2 of the monitor MN. In the cat mode, the control unit CN2 executes a prank process in which the cat on the screen SC2 plays pranks on the user through the sheet. In the normal mode, the control unit CN2 does not execute the prank process.

[0183] In the cat mode, the control unit CN2 can determine whether the user intends to operate the operation unit 120 based on information obtained from the camera 130, and if it determines that the user intends to operate the operation unit 120, it executes a mischief process. In the mischief process, the control unit CN2 activates the electric slide mechanism 150 to move the seat 110 from the first position to the second position. In other words, in the mischief process, the control unit CN2 moves the seat 110 backward so that the user cannot operate the operation unit 120.

[0184] Any method may be used to determine whether or not the user has an intention to operate. In this embodiment, the control unit CN2 determines that the user has an intention to operate when it determines, based on information acquired from the camera 130, that the user's line of sight is directed toward the operation unit 120 for a predetermined period of time.

[0185] When the mischief processing is executed, the control unit CN2 displays on the screen SC2 an image of a cat interfering with the operation of the operation unit 120, as shown in Fig. 19. In this embodiment, in the mischief processing, the control unit CN2 displays on the screen SC2 a video of a cat pushing the seat backward, as shown in Fig. 19(a).

[0186] In this case, the control unit CN2 may display an image of text such as "Don't operate meow" on the screen SC2, which indicates the state of the cat, or may output the content of the text image as sound from a speaker. The speaker may be provided in the seat 110 or in a member other than the seat 110.

[0187] Next, the operation of the control unit CN2 will be described in detail. The control unit CN2 repeatedly executes the process shown in Fig. 16. In the process shown in Fig. 16, the control unit CN2 first determines whether the mode changeover switch 163 is ON or not (S101).

[0188] If it is determined in step S101 that the mode changeover switch 163 is not ON (No), the control unit CN2 sets the mode to the first mode, that is, the normal mode (S108), and ends this process.

[0189] If it is determined in step S101 that the mode change switch 163 is ON (Yes), the control unit CN2 changes the mode to the second mode, i.e., the cat mode (S102), and displays the home screen shown in Figure 17 on the screen SC2 (S103).

[0190] After step S103, control unit CN2 acquires information from camera 130 (S104), and determines based on this information whether the time the user's line of sight is directed toward operation unit 120 (hereinafter also referred to as "operation unit viewing time") is equal to or longer than a predetermined time (S105). If it is determined in step S105 that the operation unit viewing time is equal to or longer than the predetermined time (Yes), control unit CN2 activates electric slide mechanism 150 to move seat 110 backward (S106).

[0191] After step S106, the control unit CN2 displays a video of the cat moving the seat backward on the screen SC2 (S107), and ends this process. Note that steps S106 and S107 may be performed in reverse order, or simultaneously.

[0192] If it is determined in step S105 that the operation unit viewing time is less than the predetermined time (No), the control unit CN2 randomly selects an action for the cat, displays an image of the cat performing the selected action on the screen SC2 (S109), and ends this processing. The cat's action may be any action. For example, the cat's action may be an action of the cat relaxing on the seat, as shown in FIG. 18 . In this case, the control unit CN2 may display an image of text such as "Relaxing Meow" on the screen SC2, indicating the state of the cat, or may output the content of the text image as sound from the speaker.

[0193] Next, a specific example of the operation of control unit CN2 will be described. When the user presses mode selector switch 163 to turn it ON, control unit CN2 switches to cat mode. In cat mode, control unit CN2 first displays the home screen shown in Fig. 17 on screen SC2. In cat mode, if the user is simply looking at screen SC2, for example, control unit CN2 determines that the operation unit viewing time is less than a predetermined time (S105: No), and randomly displays cat actions such as those shown in Fig. 18 on screen SC2.

[0194] In the cat mode, when the user looks at the operation unit 120 for a predetermined time or longer while attempting to operate it, the control unit CN2 determines that the operation unit viewing time is equal to or longer than the predetermined time (S105: Yes), and moves the seat 110 in which the user is seated backward, and displays a video of a cat pushing the seat backward on the screen SC2, as shown in Fig. 19. At this time, the user is surprised that the seat 110 has moved backward on its own, but because the video of the cat pushing the seat backward is displayed on the screen SC2, the user can feel that the cat is interfering with the operation of the operation unit 120, and is soothed by the free-spirited selfishness of the cat.

[0195] As described above, the present embodiment can provide the following advantages: When a user attempts to operate the operating unit 120, the electric sliding mechanism 150 is activated to move the seat 110 backward, thereby interfering with the user's operation, thereby enhancing the entertainment value of the vehicle.

[0196] When the mischief process is executed, an image of a cat interfering with the operation of the operation unit 120 is displayed on the screen SC2, which can further enhance the entertainment value.

[0197] [Second Embodiment of Vehicle Interior System] Next, a second embodiment of the vehicle interior system will be described in detail with reference to the drawings as appropriate. Note that this embodiment is a partial modification of the operation of the control unit CN2 of the vehicle interior system according to the first embodiment described above, and therefore, the same components and processes as those of the first embodiment of the vehicle interior system will be denoted by the same reference numerals, and their description will be omitted.

[0198] As shown in Figure 20, the control unit CN2 of the vehicle interior system according to the second embodiment is configured to, in the mischief processing, activate the electric reclining mechanism 140 to tilt the seat back 112 backward, and display on the screen SC2 a video of a cat hanging from the seat back, tilting the seat back backward.

[0199] More specifically, in the second embodiment of the vehicle interior system, the process of step S106 in Fig. 16 is replaced with a process of activating the electric reclining mechanism 140 to tilt the seat back 112 backward. Also, the process of step S107 in Fig. 16 is replaced with a process of displaying on the screen SC2 a video of a cat hanging from the seat back, causing the seat back to tilt backward. The other processes (S101 to S105, S108, S109) are the same as those in the first embodiment of the vehicle interior system, and therefore will not be described again.

[0200] In the second embodiment of the vehicle interior system, the electric reclining mechanism 140 corresponds to a second electric device that moves a seat back 112, which is part of the seat 110. The seat back 112 is rotatable between a first position shown in FIG. 15 and a second position shown in FIG. 20(b). The second position is farther from the operating unit 120 in the front-rear direction than the first position. Specifically, the upper part of the seat back 112 is farther from the operating unit 120 at the second position than at the first position. In the tamper processing, the control unit CN2 rotates the seat back 112 from the first position to the second position.

[0201] In the second embodiment of the vehicle interior system, in the cat mode, when the user looks at the operation unit 120 for a predetermined time or longer while attempting to operate the operation unit 120, the control unit CN2 determines that the operation unit viewing time is equal to or longer than the predetermined time (S105: Yes), and causes the seat back 112 on which the user is leaning to recline backward, and displays a video of a cat reclining the seat back backward on the screen SC2, as shown in Fig. 20. At this time, the user is surprised that the seat back 112 is reclining backward on its own, but because the video of the cat reclining the seat back backward is displayed on the screen SC2, the user can feel that the cat is interfering with the operation of the operation unit 120, and is soothed by the free-spirited selfishness of the cat.

[0202] [Third Embodiment of Vehicle Interior System] Next, a third embodiment of a vehicle interior system will be described in detail with reference to the drawings as appropriate. Note that this embodiment is a partial modification of the structure of the seat 110 and the operation of the control unit CN2 of the vehicle interior system according to the first embodiment described above. Therefore, the same components and processes as those in the first embodiment of the vehicle interior system are denoted by the same reference numerals, and description thereof will be omitted.

[0203] As shown in Fig. 21(b), the seat 310 of the vehicle interior system according to the third embodiment further includes an electric height mechanism 311 as an example of a second electric device. The electric height mechanism 311 is a mechanism that moves the seat body 110A between a first position shown in Fig. 15 and a second position shown in Fig. 21(b). The second position is a position different from the first position in a direction perpendicular to the front-rear direction, specifically in the up-down direction. More specifically, the second position is a position higher than the first position.

[0204] The control unit CN2 of the vehicle interior system of the third embodiment is configured to operate the electric height mechanism 311 to move the seat body 110A upward during mischief processing and to display a video on the screen SC2 of a cat lifting the seat from below.

[0205] More specifically, in the third embodiment of the vehicle interior system, the process of step S106 in Fig. 16 is replaced with a process of operating the electric height mechanism 311 to move the seat body 110A upward. Furthermore, the process of step S107 in Fig. 16 is replaced with a process of displaying on the screen SC2 a video of a cat lifting the seat from below. The other processes (S101 to S105, S108, S109) are the same as those in the first embodiment of the vehicle interior system, and therefore will not be described further.

[0206] In the third embodiment of the vehicle interior system, in the cat mode, when the user looks at the operation unit 120 for a predetermined time or longer while attempting to operate the operation unit 120, the control unit CN2 determines that the operation unit viewing time is equal to or longer than the predetermined time (S105: Yes), and moves the seat body 110A on which the user is seated upward, and displays a video of a cat lifting the seat from below on the screen SC2, as shown in Fig. 21. At this time, the user is surprised that the seat body 110A is rising on its own, but because the video of the cat lifting the seat is displayed on the screen SC2, the user can feel that the cat is interfering with the operation of the operation unit 120, and is soothed by the free-spirited selfishness of the cat.

[0207] The second electric device may be a device that moves the seat in the left-right direction. In this case, the first position may be a position where the seat faces the operating unit in the front-rear direction, and the second position may be a position shifted left-right from the first position.

[0208] [Fourth Embodiment of Vehicle Interior System] Next, a fourth embodiment of the vehicle interior system will be described in detail with reference to the drawings as appropriate. Note that this embodiment is a partial modification of the structure of the vehicle interior system 101 and the operation of the control unit CN2 of the first embodiment described above. Therefore, the same components and processes as those of the vehicle interior system of the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their description will be omitted.

[0209] As shown in Figures 22(a) and (b), the vehicle interior system 401 according to the fourth embodiment includes a window drive device 410 as an example of a first electric device, a window switch 420 as an example of an operating unit, and an upper sensor 430 and a lower sensor 440 as examples of a motion detection unit.

[0210] The window drive device 410 is a device that moves up and down a window W of a car door. The window drive device 410 includes a motor that is activated by energization.

[0211] The window switch 420 is a switch for operating the window drive device 410 to move the window W up and down. As shown in Fig. 22(b) , the window switch 420 has a claw portion 421 that can be hooked by a user's finger from below. The window switch 420 is rotatable around a shaft 422 that extends in the left-right direction.

[0212] When the user presses down on the tab 421 of the window switch 420, the window switch 420 outputs a lowering command to the control unit CN2 to lower the window W. When the user pulls up on the tab 421 of the window switch 420, the window switch 420 outputs a raising command to the control unit CN2 to raise the window W.

[0213] When the control unit CN2 receives a lowering command, it operates the window driving device 410 to lower the window W. When the control unit CN2 receives a raising command, it operates the window driving device 410 to raise the window W.

[0214] The upper sensor 430 and the lower sensor 440 are optical sensors that can detect the position of the user's hand. The upper sensor 430 is located above the nail portion 421 and detects the user's finger approaching the upper surface of the nail portion 421.

[0215] The lower sensor 440 is located below the upper sensor 430. Specifically, the lower sensor 440 is located in front of the nail portion 421, and detects the user's finger approaching the front end of the nail portion 421 when the user tries to put the finger under the nail portion 421.

[0216] The control unit CN2 has a function of determining that the user has an intention to operate the window W when it determines that the user's hand is approaching the window switch 420 based on information acquired from the upper sensor 430 and the lower sensor 440. Specifically, when the upper sensor 430 detects the user's hand, the control unit CN2 determines that the user has an intention to operate the window W (hereinafter also referred to as "intention to lower"). Furthermore, when the lower sensor 440 detects the user's hand, the control unit CN2 determines that the user has an intention to operate the window W (hereinafter also referred to as "intention to raise").

[0217] When the control unit CN2 determines that there is an intention to operate the window W in the second mode, it operates the window drive device 410 in an operation contrary to the intention to operate the window W. Specifically, when the control unit CN2 determines that there is an intention to lower the window W in the second mode, it raises the window W. When the control unit CN2 determines that there is an intention to raise the window W in the second mode, it lowers the window W.

[0218] That is, when the control unit CN2 receives a lowering command, it operates the window driving device 410 in a first operation to lower the window W, and when it determines in the second mode that there is an intention to lower the window W, it operates the window driving device 410 in a second operation different from the first operation to raise the window W. Note that if the control unit CN2 determines that the operation of the window driving device 410 when it receives a raising command (the operation to raise the window W) is the first operation, then when it determines in the second mode that there is an intention to raise the window W, it operates the window driving device 410 in the second operation different from the first operation to lower the window W.

[0219] Specifically, the control unit CN2 of the vehicle interior system according to the fourth embodiment executes the process shown in Fig. 23. The process in Fig. 23 includes steps S101, S102, and S108 in the process in Fig. 16, as well as new steps S131 to S134. In the following explanation, the state in which the upper sensor 430 or the lower sensor 440 detects a hand is referred to as "ON," and the state in which the upper sensor 430 or the lower sensor 440 does not detect a hand is referred to as "OFF."

[0220] After step S102, the control unit CN2 determines whether the lower sensor 440 is ON (S131). If it is determined in step S131 that the lower sensor 440 is ON (Yes), the control unit CN2 operates the window driving device 410 to lower the window W (S132), and ends this process.

[0221] If it is determined in step S131 that the lower sensor 440 is not ON (No), the control unit CN2 determines whether the upper sensor 430 is ON (S133). If it is determined in step S133 that the upper sensor 430 is ON (Yes), the control unit CN2 operates the window drive device 410 to raise the window W (S134), and ends this process. If it is determined in step S133 that the upper sensor 430 is not ON (No), the control unit CN2 ends this process.

[0222] 22A, the control of the vehicle interior system according to the fourth embodiment is effective when the window W is partially open. When the user turns on the mode selector switch 163 to enter the second mode while the window W is partially open, the control unit CN2 determines whether the user intends to raise or lower the window W based on information from the lower sensor 440 or the upper sensor 430.

[0223] When the control unit CN2 determines that the user's intention to operate the window W is to raise the window W by the lower sensor 440 being turned on, the control unit CN2 lowers the window W despite the user's intention to raise the window W. This surprises the user, thereby enhancing the entertainment value.

[0224] Furthermore, when the upper sensor 430 is turned on and the control unit CN2 determines that the user's intention is to lower the window W, the control unit CN2 raises the window W despite the user's intention to lower the window W. This surprises the user, thereby enhancing the entertainment value.

[0225] In the fourth embodiment of the vehicle interior system, a cat is not displayed on the screen SC2, but a cat may be displayed on the screen SC2. In this case, when the control unit CN2 determines that the user has the intention to descend, the control unit CN2 may display a video of a cat pushing up a window on the screen. Furthermore, when the control unit CN2 determines that the user has the intention to ascend, the control unit CN2 may display a video of a cat pushing down a window on the screen.

[0226] [Fifth Embodiment of Vehicle Interior System] Next, a fifth embodiment of a vehicle interior system will be described in detail with reference to the drawings as appropriate. Note that this embodiment is a partial modification of the structure of the vehicle interior system 101 and the operation of the control unit CN2 of the first embodiment described above. Therefore, the same components and processes as those of the first embodiment of the vehicle interior system are denoted by the same reference numerals, and description thereof will be omitted.

[0227] 24B, the vehicle interior system 501 according to the fifth embodiment further includes a moving device 510 as an example of a second electric device. The moving device 510 is a device that moves the operating unit 120 in the forward and backward directions.

[0228] The operating unit 120 is movable between a third position indicated by a two-dot chain line and a fourth position indicated by a solid line. The fourth position is farther from the seat 110 in the front-rear direction than the third position. In this embodiment, the fourth position is located forward of the third position.

[0229] In the mischief processing, control unit CN2 activates the moving device 510 to move the operation unit 120 from the third position to the fourth position. Specifically, control unit CN2 executes the processing shown in Fig. 25. The processing in Fig. 25 includes steps S101 to S105, S108, and S109 in the processing in Fig. 16, with new steps S151 and S152 provided instead of steps S106 and S107.

[0230] If it is determined in step S105 that the operation unit viewing time is equal to or longer than the predetermined time (Yes), the control unit CN2 activates the moving device 510 to move the operation unit 120 forward (S151). After step S151, the control unit CN2 displays on the screen SC2 a video of a cat moving the operation unit 120 forward, as shown in Fig. 24(a) (S152), and ends this process.

[0231] In the fifth embodiment of the vehicle interior system, when a user attempts to operate the operating unit 120, the operating unit 120 moves away from the user, thereby interfering with the user's operation, thereby enhancing the entertainment value.

[0232] The fourth position may be a position different from the third position in a direction perpendicular to the front-rear direction. That is, the moving device that moves the operation unit may move the operation unit in the left-right direction or the up-down direction.

[0233] [Sixth Embodiment of Vehicle Interior System] Next, a sixth embodiment of a vehicle interior system will be described in detail with reference to the drawings as appropriate. Note that this embodiment is a partial modification of the structure of the vehicle interior system 101 and the operation of the control unit CN2 of the first embodiment described above. Therefore, the same components and processes as those of the first embodiment of the vehicle interior system are denoted by the same reference numerals, and description thereof will be omitted.

[0234] As shown in Fig. 26(a), a vehicle interior system 601 according to the sixth embodiment further includes an on-board camera 610 as an example of a collision detection unit, and a projection device 620. The on-board camera 610 is a camera that captures images of the area ahead of the vehicle and is provided, for example, on the roof of the vehicle. The projection device 620 is a device that can project an image of a cat as an example of a character around the operation unit 120, as shown by the dashed line in Fig. 26(b).

[0235] The control unit CN2 has a function of prohibiting the execution of the mischief process when it predicts a vehicle collision based on information from the in-vehicle camera 610. Furthermore, when the mischief process is executed, the control unit CN2 has a function of executing a projection process in which the projection device 620 projects an image of a cat around the operation unit 120. In this embodiment, the image of the cat is an image of a cat lying on the operation unit 120. Note that the image of the cat may be any image as long as it is an image in which the cat appears to be interfering with the operation of the operation unit 120.

[0236] Control unit CN2 executes the process shown in Fig. 27. The process in Fig. 27 includes steps S101 to S106, S108, and S109 in the process in Fig. 16, as well as a new step S171 provided between step S101 and step S102, and a new step S172 provided in place of step S107.

[0237] If it is determined in step S101 that the mode changeover switch 163 is ON (Yes), the control unit CN2 determines (S171) whether or not there is a possibility of a vehicle collision based on information from the in-vehicle camera 610. If it is determined in step S171 that there is a possibility of a collision (Yes), the control unit CN2 proceeds to step S108 and sets the mode to the first mode.

[0238] If it is determined in step S171 that there is no possibility of a collision (No), the control unit CN2 proceeds to step S102 and switches the mode to the second mode. In the second mode, if it is determined that the operation unit viewing time is equal to or longer than a predetermined time (S105: Yes), the control unit CN2 moves the seat 110 backward by the electric sliding mechanism 150 (S106). After step S106, the control unit CN2 projects an image of a cat interfering with the operation of the operation unit 120 around the projection device 620 (S172), and ends this process.

[0239] According to the sixth embodiment of the vehicle interior system, when the vehicle is about to collide, the execution of the mischief process is prohibited, so that the user can, for example, assume a posture prepared for the collision. Furthermore, when the mischief process is executed, an image of a cat is projected around the operating unit 120, which further enhances the entertainment value.

[0240] [Seventh Embodiment of Vehicle Interior System] Next, a seventh embodiment of a vehicle interior system will be described in detail with reference to the drawings as appropriate. Note that this embodiment is a partial modification of the structure of the vehicle interior system 101 and the operation of the control unit CN2 of the first embodiment described above. Therefore, the same components and processes as those of the first embodiment of the vehicle interior system are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their description will be omitted.

[0241] 28A, a vehicle interior system 701 according to the seventh embodiment includes a first seat SH1 and a second seat SH2 disposed in front of the first seat SH1. The first seat SH1 and the second seat SH2 have the same configuration as the seat 110 according to the first embodiment of the vehicle interior system. The second seat SH2 has a monitor MN, an operating unit 120, and a camera 130 on the back of the seat 110.

[0242] A user seated on the first seat SH1 can view the screen SC2 of the monitor MN and can operate the operation unit 120. The camera 130 can capture an image of the user seated on the first seat SH1.

[0243] The electric sliding mechanism 150 of the second seat SH2 is an example of a second electric device, and moves the second seat SH2 in the front-to-rear direction. As shown in Figure 28(b), in the tamper processing, the control unit CN2 activates the electric sliding mechanism 150 of the second seat SH2 to move the second seat SH2 forward.

[0244] Specifically, control unit CN2 executes the process shown in Fig. 29. The process in Fig. 29 includes steps S101 to S105, S108, and S109 in the process in Fig. 16, as well as new steps S191 and S192 provided in place of steps S106 and S107.

[0245] If it is determined in step S105 that the visual recognition time of the operation unit is equal to or longer than the predetermined time (Yes), the control unit CN2 activates the electric sliding mechanism 150 of the second seat SH2, which is the front seat, to move the second seat SH2 forward (S191). After step S191, the control unit CN2 displays a video of the cat moving the operation unit forward on the screen SC2 (S192), and ends this process.

[0246] According to the seventh embodiment of the vehicle interior system, when a user seated on the first seat SH1 attempts to operate the operating unit 120, the second seat SH2 moves forward, moving the operating unit 120 away from the user, thereby interfering with the user's operation and increasing entertainment value.

[0247] The first electric device and the second electric device are not limited to the devices described above. For example, the devices described above as modified examples of the first to fifth embodiments of the seat system can be selected as desired as the first electric device and the second electric device. In addition to the devices described above, the following devices can be selected as desired as the first electric device and the second electric device: - An electric reclining mechanism - A mechanism for moving or rotating a center console provided with an operating unit back and forth - A vibration device for vibrating the seat surface or protruding portion of the seat

[0248] The air cell may be connected to an air pump by an air tube, and when air is injected, it may expand toward the seat occupant and press against the seat occupant. The air cell may be disposed at a position corresponding to the occupant's lower back like a lumbar support, or may be provided at multiple locations on the seat.

[0249] The vibration device may be any type, such as one having a motor and harness that generates vibrations, one having an eccentric motor, or one having a linear motor.

[0250] The display unit may be located anywhere, such as on the instrument panel, center console, steering wheel, meter, back of the seat, or side of the door. The display unit may also be a projection device that projects an image. The display unit may also be a mobile device such as a smartphone or tablet carried by the seat occupant.

[0251] When the seat is moved in the forward / backward direction, if a person is present in the direction of the seat movement, the amount of movement of the seat may be changed. Specifically, when a sensor (e.g., an optical sensor) that detects whether or not a person is present in the movement trajectory of the seat detects a person, the control unit may reduce the amount of movement of the seat compared to when no person is detected, thereby preventing the seat from interfering with the person.

[0252] The user's motion detected by the motion detection unit may be, for example, a movement of the user's arm approaching the operation unit. The motion detection unit may be an infrared sensor, etc. The motion detection unit, operation unit, or display unit may be provided on the ceiling of the vehicle, the left and right walls of the vehicle (inner panels), the floor, seat, center console, etc. of the vehicle.

[0253] When the user's line of sight is not directed toward a character displayed on a display unit capable of displaying an image of the character, such as a screen or a projection device, the control unit may activate a vibration device provided on the seat. Specifically, the control unit may activate the vibration device when a line of sight detection unit, such as a camera, determines that the user's line of sight is not directed toward the character. In this case, the control unit may display a video of the character punching the back of the seat on the display unit.

[0254] The character may be projected onto an area where the user's gaze is directed. Specifically, the control unit may identify the direction in which the user's gaze is directed using the gaze detection unit, and may project the character onto the area where the gaze is directed using the projection device.

[0255] The method of determining whether or not a user has an intention to operate may be, for example, a method of determining whether or not a user has an intention to operate when the distance from the operating unit to the user's hand is equal to or less than a predetermined value.

[0256] In the second embodiment of the vehicle interior system, the seat 110 may further include an ottoman that can be rotated up and down. In this case, in the tamper detection process, the ottoman may be rotated from bottom to top before the seat back 112 is tilted backward. In this way, even if the user's back is away from the seat back 112, the rotation of the ottoman can tilt the user's body backward and allow the user to lean against the seat back 112, thereby more reliably moving the user away from the operating unit. Note that instead of an ottoman, a side frame front end lifting mechanism may be used to lift the front end of the seat cushion, allowing the user to lean against the seat back.

[0257] In the seventh embodiment of the vehicle interior system, the second seat SH2 is moved forward during tamper processing, but for example, the seat back 112 of the second seat SH2 may be tilted forward, or the seat belt of the first seat SH1 may be tightened.

[0258] The operation unit may be, for example, a touch panel, etc. If the operation unit is a touch panel, the touch panel may be rotated in the mischief processing to interfere with the user's operation.

[0259] If the operation unit is a switch for changing the air volume or temperature of an air conditioner or a switch for changing the temperature of a heater, the tampering process may operate the air conditioner or heater in an operation opposite to the user's intention. For example, in the tampering process, if the user operates the operation unit to increase the temperature, the control unit may decrease the temperature.

[0260] The characters may be animals other than cats, or may be personified objects or living things.

[0261] The vehicle is not limited to an automobile, but may be any other vehicle, such as a motorcycle or a train.

[0262] The collision detection unit may be an inter-vehicle distance sensor that detects the distance between the vehicle and a vehicle ahead.

[0263] Examples of methods for manufacturing a vehicle interior system include the following: a first electric device that operates when current is applied, a second electric device that also operates when current is applied, an operation unit for operating the first electric device, a control unit that operates the first electric device with a first operation based on an operation command from the operation unit, and a motion detection unit that detects a user's motion to operate the operation unit, wherein the control unit is capable of determining whether the user intends to operate the operation unit based on information acquired from the motion detection unit, and when it determines that the user intends to operate the operation unit, operates the first electric device with a second operation different from the first operation or executes a tamper process to operate the second electric device, the method for manufacturing a vehicle interior system includes the step of connecting the first electric device, the second electric device, the operation unit, and the motion detection unit to the control unit.

[0264] [Eighth Embodiment of Vehicle Interior System] Hereinafter, an eighth embodiment of a vehicle interior system will be described with reference to the drawings. As shown in Fig. 30 , a vehicle interior system 801 includes a first seat ST1, a second seat ST2, a third seat ST3, a fourth seat ST4, a first monitor M1, a second monitor M2, a third monitor M3, a fourth monitor M4, a projection device P1 as an example of a line-of-sight guidance unit, a camera C1 as an example of a line-of-sight detection unit, a mode selector switch 263, and a control unit CN3.

[0265] The seats ST1 to ST4, the monitors M1 to M4, the projection device P1, and the camera C1 are interior components for the vehicle and are arranged inside the vehicle, specifically in positions facing the passenger compartment. The second seat ST2 and the third seat ST3 correspond to the first interior component. The second seat ST2, the third seat ST3, the second monitor M2, and the third monitor M3 correspond to the destination interior component.

[0266] The first seat ST1 and the fourth seat ST4 are seats that make up the second row of three rows of seats. The first seat ST1 is located to the right of the fourth seat ST4.

[0267] The second seat ST2 is a driver's seat and is located in front of the first seat ST1, and the third seat ST3 is a passenger's seat and is located in front of the fourth seat ST4.

[0268] The first monitor M1 is provided on the door located to the right of the first seat ST1, and the second monitor M2 is provided on the back of the second seat ST2.

[0269] The third monitor M3 is provided on the back of the third seat ST3, and the fourth monitor M4 is provided on the door located to the left of the fourth seat ST4.

[0270] A user seated in the first seat ST1 can view each of the monitors M1 to M4. A user seated in the fourth seat ST4 can also view each of the monitors M1 to M4.

[0271] The seats ST1 to ST4 and the monitors M1 to M4 have the same structure. In the following explanation, for the sake of illustration, the third seat ST3 and the first monitor M1 will be explained as representatives, and explanations of the other seats and monitors will be omitted.

[0272] The third seat ST3 includes a seat body 210A and an electric reclining mechanism 240 as an example of an electric device.

[0273] The seat body 210A is a member having a seating surface that supports the user. The seat body 210A includes a seat cushion 211, a seat back 212, and a headrest 213. The seat cushion 211, the seat back 212, and the headrest 213 each have a metal frame that forms the framework, a pad that covers the frame, and a surface that covers the pad. The pad is made of urethane foam or the like. The surface is made of synthetic leather, fabric, or the like. The upper surface of the seat cushion 211 forms the seating surface. The front surfaces of the seat back 212 and the headrest 213 each form the seating surface.

[0274] The electric reclining mechanism 240 is a device that changes the shape of the seat body 210A by moving a part of the seat body 210A. More specifically, the electric reclining mechanism 240 is a mechanism that tilts the seat back 212. The electric reclining mechanism 240 is equipped with a motor that is activated by energization.

[0275] The first monitor M1 is an electrically powered device that operates when powered on. The first monitor M1 has a screen that displays images. The image displayed on the first monitor M1 can be changed by the control unit CN3. The screen is made of, for example, a liquid crystal display. In the following description, the screen of the first monitor M1 will also be referred to as the "first screen D1," the screen of the second monitor M2 as the "second screen D2," the screen of the third monitor M3 as the "third screen D3," and the screen of the fourth monitor M4 as the "fourth screen D4."

[0276] The control unit CN3 is configured to include, for example, a CPU, RAM, ROM, input / output circuits, etc. The control unit CN3 is provided in an appropriate location in the vehicle. The control unit CN3 is connected to the electric reclining mechanisms 240 of the seats ST1 to ST4, the monitors M1 to M4, the projection device P1, the camera C1, and the mode selector switch 263.

[0277] The control unit CN3 has a function of displaying on the screen a moving image of a character moving from within the screen to outside the screen. In this embodiment, the control unit CN3 has a function of displaying a cat as an example of a character on the first screen D1, and then moving the cat from the first screen D1 to the second screen D2, the third screen D3, and the fourth screen D4 in this order, as shown in Figures 31 to 37.

[0278] 30, the projection device P1 is a device that guides the user's line of sight with light. The projection device P1 is capable of projecting light images onto the door on the right side of the first seat ST1, the back surface of the second seat ST2, the back surface of the third seat ST3, and the door on the left side of the fourth seat ST4.

[0279] As shown in Figure 32, when a cat moves from the first screen D1 to the second screen D2, the projection device P1 projects arrow images A1 and A2, which are arrow-shaped lights pointing toward the second seat ST2 and the second screen D2 as the destination interior member, onto the door to the right of the first seat ST1 and the back of the second seat ST2, thereby guiding the user's line of sight. Specifically, the arrow image A1 is an arrow-shaped light pointing toward the second seat ST2. The arrow image A2 is an arrow-shaped light pointing toward the second screen D2.

[0280] As shown in Fig. 34, when a cat moves from the second screen D2 to the third screen D3, the projection device P1 projects arrow images A3 and A4, which are arrow-shaped lights pointing toward the third sheet ST3 and the third screen D3 as the destination interior member, onto the back surface of the second sheet ST2 and the back surface of the third sheet ST3, thereby guiding the user's line of sight. Specifically, the arrow image A3 is an arrow-shaped light pointing toward the third sheet ST3. The arrow image A4 is an arrow-shaped light pointing toward the third screen D3.

[0281] As shown in Figure 36, when a cat moves from the third screen D3 to the fourth screen D4, the projection device P1 guides the user's gaze by projecting an arrow image A5, which is an arrow-shaped light pointing toward the fourth screen D4, which is the destination interior component, onto the back of the third seat ST3.

[0282] 30, the camera C1 is a device for detecting the line of sight of the user. The camera C1 is positioned so as to capture an image of the face of the user seated on the first seat ST1 or the fourth seat ST4, and is capable of detecting the line of sight of the user.

[0283] The mode changeover switch 263 is a switch for switching the mode of the control unit CN3 between a first mode and a second mode. Here, the first mode is a mode in which the gaze guidance process described below is executed. Also, the second mode is a mode in which the gaze guidance process is not executed. The mode changeover switch 263 is, for example, a push button switch. The mode changeover switch 263 alternates between an ON state and an OFF state each time the mode changeover switch 263 is pressed by the user. The mode changeover switch 263 is, for example, arranged around the first monitor M1.

[0284] The control unit CN3 controls the projection device P1 based on the movement of the cat displayed on the screen, thereby performing a gaze guidance process to guide the user's gaze from the screen to a destination interior component corresponding to the destination of the cat. The control unit CN3 is configured to perform the gaze guidance process in the first mode and not to perform the gaze guidance process in the second mode.

[0285] The first mode is a mode in which the user can interact with the cat displayed on the screen through the seat. In the following description, the first mode is also referred to as the "cat mode."

[0286] The second mode is a mode in which no image is displayed on the screen, or an image different from that displayed in the cat mode is displayed on the screen. In the following description, the second mode is also referred to as the "normal mode."

[0287] The control unit CN3 can operate in a manual driving mode and an automatic driving mode. In the manual driving mode, the vehicle is driven by the driver operating controls such as the accelerator, brake, and steering wheel. In the automatic driving mode, the vehicle is driven without the driver operating controls.

[0288] The manual driving mode and the automatic driving mode can be switched by a switch (not shown). In this embodiment, the control unit CN3 can execute the cat mode when in the automatic driving mode.

[0289] In the cat mode, the controller CN3 controls the electric reclining mechanism 240 of the second seat ST2 or the third seat ST3 based on the cat's movements. Specifically, when the cat moves to the second screen D2, the controller CN3 controls the electric reclining mechanism 240 of the second seat ST2 to tilt the seat back 212 of the second seat ST2 backward. When the cat moves to the third screen D3, the controller CN3 controls the electric reclining mechanism 240 of the third seat ST3 to tilt the seat back 212 of the third seat ST3 forward.

[0290] Specifically, after guiding the user's line of sight toward the destination interior component using the projection device P1, the control unit CN3 determines whether the user's line of sight is directed toward the destination interior component based on information obtained from the camera C1, and if it determines that the user's line of sight is directed toward the destination interior component, it activates the electric reclining mechanism 240. Furthermore, before moving the cat on the screen, the control unit CN3 determines whether the user's line of sight is directed toward the screen based on information obtained from the camera C1, and if it determines that the user's line of sight is directed toward the screen, it moves the cat.

[0291] The operation of the control unit CN3 will be described in detail below. The control unit CN3 repeatedly executes the process shown in FIG.

[0292] 38, the control unit CN3 first determines whether the vehicle is in automatic driving mode (S201). If it is determined in step S201 that the vehicle is not in automatic driving mode (No), the control unit CN3 ends this process.

[0293] If it is determined in step S201 that the vehicle is in automatic driving mode (Yes), the control unit CN3 determines whether the mode changeover switch 263 is ON (S202). If it is determined in step S202 that the mode changeover switch 263 is not ON (No), the control unit CN3 sets the mode to the second mode (S219) and ends this process.

[0294] If it is determined in step S202 that the mode changeover switch 263 is ON (Yes), the control unit CN3 switches the mode to the first mode (S203) and displays a cat on the first screen D1 (S204). After step S204, the control unit CN3 determines whether the user's line of sight is directed toward the first screen D1 based on information from the camera C1 (S205).

[0295] The control unit CN3 repeats the process of step S5 until it determines that the user's gaze is directed toward the first screen D1. If it determines in step S205 that the user's gaze is directed toward the first screen D1 (Yes), the control unit CN3 displays a video in which a cat on the first screen D1 moves toward the second screen D2 on the second sheet ST2 (S206).

[0296] For example, in step S206, the control unit CN3 displays a moving image in which the cat's entire body is displayed on the first screen D1 and the cat on the first screen D1 jumps toward the second screen D2 on the second sheet ST2. In the moving image of the cat jumping, the control unit CN3 gradually erases the display of the cat's body from the front legs side so that the cat's body disappears off the screen starting from the front legs side.

[0297] After step S206, the control unit CN3 causes the projection device P1 to project arrow images A1 and A2 pointing toward the second seat ST2 (driver's seat) and the second screen D2 (S207). The arrow images A1 and A2 may be projected in the following order: the arrow image A1 is projected onto the door and then the arrow image A2 is projected onto the back surface of the second seat ST2, or the arrow images A1 and A2 may be projected simultaneously. The projection of the arrow images A1 and A2 may begin when the cat disappears from the first screen D1, or when a part of the cat's body (e.g., a hind leg) remains on the first screen D1.

[0298] After step S207, the control unit CN3 determines whether the user's line of sight is directed toward the second screen D2 (second sheet ST2) based on the information from the camera C1 (S208). The control unit CN3 repeats the process of step S208 until it determines that the user's line of sight is directed toward the second screen D2.

[0299] If it is determined in step S208 that the user's line of sight is directed toward the second screen D2 (Yes), the control unit CN3 ends the projection of the arrow images A1 and A2 and displays the cat on the second screen D2 (S209). The display of the cat in step S209 may be a still image showing the entire body of the cat, or a moving image in which the cat's body is gradually displayed starting from the front legs, making it appear as if the cat has moved from the first screen D1 (the source of movement).

[0300] After step S209, the control unit CN3 controls the electric reclining mechanism 240 of the second seat ST2, which is the driver's seat, to tilt the seatback 212 of the second seat ST2 backward (S210). After step S210, the control unit CN3 displays a video of a cat on the second screen D2 moving toward the third screen D3 of the third seat ST3 (S211). The video display in step S211 can be performed in the same manner as the video display in S206.

[0301] After step S211, the control unit CN3 causes the projection device P1 to project arrow images A3 and A4 pointing toward the third seat ST3 (passenger seat) and the third screen D3 (S212). The arrow images A3 and A4 may be projected in the following order: first, the arrow image A3 is projected onto the rear surface of the second seat ST2, and then the arrow image A4 is projected onto the rear surface of the third seat ST3. Alternatively, the arrow images A3 and A4 may be projected simultaneously. The projection of the arrow images A3 and A4 may begin when the cat disappears from the second screen D2, or when a part of the cat's body (e.g., a hind leg) remains on the second screen D2.

[0302] After step S212, the control unit CN3 determines whether the user's line of sight is directed toward the third screen D3 (third sheet ST3) based on the information from the camera C1 (S213). The control unit CN3 repeats the process of step S213 until it determines that the user's line of sight is directed toward the third screen D3.

[0303] If it is determined in step S213 that the user's line of sight is directed toward the third screen D3 (Yes), the control unit CN3 ends the projection of the arrow images A3 and A4 and displays a cat on the third screen D3 (S214). The display of the cat in step S214 can be performed in the same manner as the display of the cat in step S209.

[0304] After step S214, the control unit CN3 controls the electric reclining mechanism 240 of the third seat ST3, which is the passenger seat, to tilt the seatback 212 of the third seat ST3 forward (S215). After step S215, the control unit CN3 displays a video of a cat on the third screen D3 moving toward the fourth screen D4 (S216). The video display in step S216 can be performed in the same manner as the video display in S206.

[0305] After step S216, the control unit CN3 projects an arrow image A5 pointing toward the fourth screen D4 onto the rear surface of the third sheet ST3 (S217). After step S217, the control unit CN3 ends the projection of the arrow image A5, displays a cat on the fourth screen D4 (S218), and ends this process. The display of the cat in step S218 can be performed in the same manner as the display of the cat in step S209.

[0306] Note that a process for determining whether the user's line of sight is directed toward the fourth screen D4 may be provided between step S217 and step S218. Furthermore, for example, after step S218, the control unit CN3 may return the positions of the driver's seat and the passenger seat, which have been moved by executing the first mode, to their initial positions.

[0307] Next, a specific example of the operation of the control unit CN3 will be described. As shown in Fig. 30, when a user seated on the first seat ST1 turns on the mode selector switch 263 during autonomous driving, the control unit CN3 executes the cat mode. In the cat mode, the control unit CN3 displays a cat on the first screen D1 as shown in Fig. 31.

[0308] When the user is not looking at the first screen D1, the control unit CN3 keeps the cat on the first screen D1 without moving it outside the first screen D1. When the user looks at the first screen D1, the control unit CN3 moves the cat on the first screen D1 toward the second sheet ST2 and the second screen D2, as shown in FIG.

[0309] The control unit CN3 then projects arrow images A1 and A2 using the projection device P1 to guide the user's line of sight to the second seat ST2 and the second screen D2. When the user, whose line of sight has been guided, looks at the second screen D2, the control unit CN3 displays a cat on the second screen D2 and tilts the seat back 212 of the second seat ST2 backward, as shown in Fig. 33. This allows the user to know that the cat has moved to the second screen D2 and to feel as if the second seat ST2 has tilted backward when the cat lands.

[0310] Then, as shown in FIG. 34, the control unit CN3 moves the cat on the second screen D2 toward the third sheet ST3 and the third screen D3, and projects arrow images A3 and A4 using the projection device P1 to guide the user's gaze toward the third sheet ST3 and the third screen D3.

[0311] When the user's gaze is guided to look at the third screen D3, the control unit CN3 displays a cat on the third screen D3 and tilts the seat back 212 of the third seat ST3 forward, as shown in Fig. 35. This allows the user to know that the cat has moved to the third screen D3, and also allows the user to feel that the third seat ST3 has tilted forward as the cat lands.

[0312] Thereafter, the control unit CN3 moves the cat on the third screen D3 toward the fourth screen D4, and projects an arrow image A5 using the projection device P1 to guide the user's line of sight to the fourth screen D4, as shown in Fig. 36. Next, the control unit CN3 displays the cat on the fourth screen D4, as shown in Fig. 37. This allows the user to know that the cat has moved to the fourth screen D4.

[0313] As described above, the present embodiment can provide the following advantages: The projection device P1 can guide the user's gaze to the destination of the cat that has moved off the screen, allowing the user to visually recognize events at the destination of the cat, thereby enhancing entertainment value.

[0314] The seat backs 212 of the second seat ST2 and the third seat ST3 move based on the cat's movements, so the user can visually and physically understand that the two-dimensional cat on the screen has jumped out into the real world and passed by while reclining the seat backs 212 of the seats ST2 and ST3, thereby enhancing the entertainment value.

[0315] The arrow-shaped light guides the user's gaze, allowing the user to more reliably direct their gaze to the cat's destination.

[0316] When the user turns his / her gaze toward the destination interior member (the second seat ST2 or the third seat ST3), the seat back 212 of the destination interior member moves, so that the user can be prevented from missing the movement of the destination interior member in response to the cat's movements.

[0317] The cat moves when the user's gaze is directed toward the screen, which prevents the user from missing the cat's movements.

[0318] [Ninth Embodiment of Vehicle Interior System] Next, a ninth embodiment of a vehicle interior system will be described in detail with reference to the drawings as appropriate. Note that this embodiment is a partial modification of the structure of the vehicle interior system 801 according to the eighth embodiment described above, and therefore, the same components as those in the eighth embodiment of the vehicle interior system will be denoted by the same reference numerals and their description will be omitted.

[0319] The vehicle interior system 901 according to the ninth embodiment includes a first seat ST1 and a fourth seat ST4 that are substantially the same as those in the eighth embodiment of the vehicle interior system, a first monitor M1 and a fourth monitor M4 that are the same as those in the eighth embodiment of the vehicle interior system, and a first light 210 and a second light 220 that serve as an example of a visual guidance unit. The ninth embodiment of the vehicle interior system does not include the projection device P1 and the camera C1 described above. The ninth embodiment of the vehicle interior system also includes a mode selector switch 263 similar to that in the eighth embodiment of the vehicle interior system, although this is not shown.

[0320] The first seat ST1 and the fourth seat ST4 of the vehicle interior system of the ninth embodiment each have a seat body 210A and an electric reclining mechanism 240 similar to those of the eighth embodiment of the vehicle interior system, and further have an electric slide mechanism 250 and a vibration device 270 as examples of electric devices.

[0321] The electric slide mechanism 250 is a device that changes the position of the seat body 210A. Specifically, the electric slide mechanism 250 moves the seat body 210A in the front-rear direction. The seat body 210A is supported by a slide rail (not shown) so that it can move in the front-rear direction. The electric slide mechanism 250 includes a motor that is activated by energization.

[0322] The vibration device 270 is a device that vibrates the seating surface of the seat body 210A. In this embodiment, the vibration device 270 is provided on the seat back 212. For example, one vibration device 270 is provided on the left side and one on the right side of the seating surface of the seat back 212.

[0323] The first illuminator 210 is disposed in front of the first seat ST1. The second illuminator 220 is disposed in front of the fourth seat ST4. A user seated in the first seat ST1 or the fourth seat ST4 can see the first illuminator 210 and the second illuminator 220.

[0324] The first illuminator 210 and the second illuminator 220 each have three light-emitting elements L1, L2, and L3. The three light-emitting elements L1, L2, and L3 are aligned in a line in the direction from the first monitor M1 (first screen D1) toward the fourth monitor M4, which serves as the destination interior member. In this embodiment, the three light-emitting elements L1, L2, and L3 are aligned in a line in the left-right direction.

[0325] The control unit CN3 has a function of guiding the user's line of sight from the first monitor M1 to the fourth monitor M4 by sequentially illuminating the light-emitting units L1 to L3 of each of the lights 210 and 220 starting from the first monitor M1 side. Specifically, the control unit CN3 executes the process shown in FIG.

[0326] The process of Fig. 40 includes steps S201 to S204 and S219 in the process of Fig. 38, as well as new steps S231 to S236. After step S204, the control unit CN3 displays a video in which the cat displayed on the first screen D1 moves toward the fourth screen D4 (S231). As the video in step S231, for example, a video in which a cat jumps out in a direction perpendicular to the first screen D1 can be used.

[0327] After step S231, the control unit CN3 sequentially lights up the plurality of light-emitting units L1 to L3 of the first illumination 210, starting from the first screen D1 side (S232). The sequential lighting method may be, for example, a method in which the number of light-emitting units that are lit is gradually increased by sequentially lighting up the plurality of light-emitting units without turning off a light-emitting unit that has been turned on once, or a method in which a point of light moves by turning on a predetermined light-emitting unit and then turning off the predetermined light-emitting unit just before turning on the next light-emitting unit.

[0328] After step S232, the controller CN3 moves at least a part of the first seat ST1 (S233). In step S233, the controller CN3 may activate at least one of the electric reclining mechanism 240, the electric sliding mechanism 250, and the vibration device 270 of the first seat ST1.

[0329] For example, in step S233, the control unit CN3 tilts the seat back 212 backward using the electric reclining mechanism 240, and moves the seat body 210A backward using the electric slide mechanism 250. Furthermore, for example, the control unit CN3 vibrates the two vibration devices 270 arranged side by side on the left and right of the first seat ST1, sequentially from the first screen D1 side.

[0330] After step S233, the controller CN3 sequentially lights up the light-emitting elements L1 to L3 of the second lighting 220, starting from the first screen D1 side (S234). After step S234, the controller CN3 moves at least a portion of the fourth seat ST4 (S235). Note that in step S235, the controller CN3 may activate at least one of the electric reclining mechanism 240, the electric sliding mechanism 250, and the vibration device 270 of the fourth seat ST4.

[0331] For example, in step S235, the control unit CN3 tilts the seat back 212 forward using the electric reclining mechanism 240 and moves the seat body 210A forward using the electric slide mechanism 250. Furthermore, for example, the control unit CN3 vibrates the two vibration devices 270 arranged side by side on the left and right of the fourth seat ST4, sequentially from the first screen D1 side.

[0332] After step S235, the control unit CN3 displays a cat on the fourth screen D4 (S236), and ends this process.

[0333] According to the ninth embodiment of the vehicle interior system, the light-emitting elements L1 to L3 of the first lighting 210 and the second lighting 220 light up in order from the first screen D1 side, causing the light to flow from right to left, thereby guiding the user's line of sight from the first screen D1 on the right to the fourth screen D4 on the left. Also, while the cat moves from the first screen D1 to the fourth screen D4, at least a portion of each of the seats ST1 and ST4 between the first screen D1 and the fourth screen D4 moves, so the user can feel as if the virtual cat has jumped out of the first screen D1 and moved to the fourth screen D4 via each of the seats ST1 and ST4.

[0334] [Tenth Embodiment of Vehicle Interior System] Next, a tenth embodiment of the vehicle interior system will be described in detail with reference to the drawings as appropriate. Note that components similar to those in the eighth embodiment of the vehicle interior system will be assigned the same reference numerals and descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0335] The vehicle interior system 1001 according to the tenth embodiment includes a seat 210, a first monitor M11, a second monitor M12, an on-board camera C2 as an example of a collision detection unit, and a projection device P2 as an example of a line-of-sight guidance unit.

[0336] The seat 210 includes a seat body 210A and an electric reclining mechanism 240 similar to those of the eighth embodiment of the vehicle interior system, and further includes a mode changeover switch 263 similar to those of the eighth embodiment of the vehicle interior system.

[0337] The first monitor M11 is provided on the dashboard and has a first screen D11.

[0338] The second monitor M12 is provided on the roof of the vehicle and is positioned above the first monitor M11. The second monitor M12 has a second screen D12.

[0339] The vehicle-mounted camera C2 is a camera that captures images ahead of the vehicle, and is mounted, for example, on the roof of the vehicle.

[0340] The projection device P2 is provided on the roof of the vehicle, for example, and is capable of projecting an arrow image A6, which is an arrow-shaped light beam pointing toward the second screen D12, onto the front pillar of the vehicle.

[0341] Control unit CN3 executes the processing shown in Fig. 42. The processing in Fig. 42 includes new steps S251 to S255 in addition to steps S201 to S204 and S219 in the processing in Fig. 38.

[0342] If the control unit CN3 determines in step S202 that the mode changeover switch 263 is ON (Yes), it determines whether or not there is a possibility of a vehicle collision based on the information from the in-vehicle camera C2 (S251). If it determines in step S251 that there is a possibility of a collision (Yes), the control unit CN3 switches the mode to the second mode in which the line-of-sight guidance process is not executed (S219).

[0343] If it is determined in step S251 that there is no possibility of a collision (No), the control unit CN3 switches the mode to the first mode (S203) and displays the cat on the first screen D11 (S204). After step S204, the control unit CN3 moves the cat on the first screen D11 toward the second screen D12 (S252).

[0344] After step S252, the control unit CN3 causes the projection device P2 to project an arrow image A6 pointing toward the second screen D12 onto the front pillar (S253). After step S253, the control unit CN3 activates the electric reclining mechanism 240 to tilt the seat back 212 backward (S254). After step S254, the control unit CN3 displays a cat on the second screen D12 (S255), and ends this process.

[0345] According to the tenth embodiment of the vehicle interior system, when the vehicle is about to collide, even if the mode change switch 263 is in the ON state, the mode changes to the second mode, and the gaze guidance process is not executed, so that, for example, the user can assume a posture in preparation for a collision.

[0346] In addition, in the tenth embodiment of the vehicle interior system, after the upward arrow image A6 is projected, the seat back 212 is tilted back, so that the tilting of the seat back 212 can assist the user in looking up at the second screen D12.

[0347] The electric device may be a device that changes the orientation of the seat. For example, the electric device may be a rotation device that rotates the seat around a vertical axis. In this case, the line-of-sight guidance unit may guide the user's line of sight by scanning an arc-shaped light along the direction of rotation of the seat. Furthermore, for example, when displaying a line-of-sight guidance from right to left, the rotation device may rotate the seat from right to left.

[0348] When the seat rotates, the guidance speed and display position of the visual guidance display may be changed depending on the amount of rotation. For example, when the seat rotation amount is large compared to when it is small, the range of movement of the seated occupant's gaze is wider when the seat rotation amount is large, so the size of the light of the visual guidance display may be increased to make it easier to see. Also, for example, when the seat rotation amount is large, the position and number of arrow images to be displayed for visual guidance may be determined based on the amount of rotation. For example, when the seat rotation amount is large, arrow images may be displayed over a wider range compared to when the seat rotation amount is small. Note that the guidance speed, size, and display position of the visual guidance display may be changed based not only on the amount of rotation but also on the amount of movement of the seat. An example of the amount of movement is the amount of rotation of the seat back.

[0349] The vehicle interior system may have at least one screen. For example, in the ninth embodiment of the vehicle interior system shown in FIG. 39 , the fourth screen D4 may be omitted. In this case, for example, the control unit CN3 may move the character on the first screen D1 toward the first sheet ST1 outside the first screen D1, move at least a portion of the first sheet ST1, move at least a portion of the fourth sheet ST4, move at least a portion of the first sheet ST1, and then display the cat again on the first screen D1. This allows for an effect in which a cat jumps out of the first screen D1, moves to the first sheet ST1, moves to the fourth sheet ST4, and then returns to the first screen D1 via the first sheet ST1.

[0350] In this case, the control unit CN3 sequentially lights up the multiple light-emitting units L1 to L3 of the first lighting 210 from the side of the first screen D1, then sequentially lights up the multiple light-emitting units L1 to L3 of the second lighting 220 from the side of the first screen D1, and then sequentially lights up the multiple light-emitting units L1 to L3 of the second lighting 220 from the side farthest from the first screen D1, and then sequentially lights up the multiple light-emitting units L1 to L3 of the first lighting 210 from the side farthest from the first screen D1.

[0351] The control unit may be configured not to execute the autonomous driving. In this case, for example, in the cat mode of the eighth embodiment of the vehicle interior system, the second seat ST2 (driver's seat) may not be moved. Specifically, the process of step S210 may be deleted from the process of FIG. 38.

[0352] The destination interior component may be a window, an air conditioner, an audio device, or the like.

[0353] The position of an unoccupied seat may be changed so that the light trajectory for guiding the line of sight is easily visible. For example, when the light for guiding the line of sight is scanned toward the left door, the seat adjacent to the left door may be reclined backward so that the light trajectory projected onto the left door is easily visible.

[0354] The light image for guiding the line of sight may be a pattern. For example, it may be a pattern of an animal such as a cat, a geometric pattern, or the footprints of an animal such as a cat.

[0355] The line of sight guidance unit may be provided on a center console, an instrument panel, a dashboard, a seat, a steering wheel, a meter, a door, a decorative item, or the like. For example, the line of sight guidance unit may be a door light. The light may guide the line of sight by changing the color of its light. The line of sight guidance unit may project a light trail by gradually extending the light.

[0356] The screen may be provided in a center console, an instrument panel, a dashboard, a headrest, a seat cushion, a steering wheel, a meter, an ornament, a mobile information terminal, or the like.

[0357] When the cat on the first screen throws a ball toward the second screen and the ball moves to the second screen, lighting may be moved in a flowing manner from the seat back on which the first screen is attached toward the seat back on which the second screen is attached to guide the gaze.

[0358] When the character's actions are displayed as running and jumping, the seat may be reclined or a vibration device in the seat may be activated, projecting cat footprints onto the seat back of the seat that has been activated to guide the viewer's gaze.

[0359] When a visual guidance display is displayed from the first screen to the second screen by a character action, the vibration device on the first screen side may vibrate before the character moves to the second screen, and the vibration device on the second screen side may vibrate after the character moves to the second screen. In this way, the vibration device operates as a preparatory action for the visual guidance display and as a completion action, so that it is possible to intuitively understand whether the visual guidance display has ended or not.

[0360] The line-of-sight detection unit may be provided on the instrument panel, near the screen, on the back of the seat, in the door, or the like.

[0361] The control unit may, while displaying a character on the first screen, perform gaze guidance to direct the user's gaze toward the first screen when the user's gaze deviates from the first screen based on information from the gaze detection unit. Furthermore, the control unit may determine, based on information from the gaze detection unit, whether the gaze that deviated from the first screen has returned to the first screen, and, if it determines that the gaze has returned, perform an action to move the character out of the first screen and operate an electric device linked to the action. This can prevent a user who is not watching the character's action from being surprised by the unexpected operation of the electric device.

[0362] The electric device may be any of the devices described above as modifications of the first to fifth embodiments of the seat system.

[0363] The air cell may be connected to an air pump by an air tube, and may expand and press against the occupant when air is injected. The air cell may be located in the lower back like a lumbar support, or multiple air cells may be provided on the seat to allow for more localized changes in shape.

[0364] The vibration device may be any type, such as one having a motor and harness that emits vibrations, one having an eccentric motor, or one having a linear motor. The vibration device may be provided on a seat cushion, a headrest, etc. The vibration device may be provided on the left and right protrusions of the seat cushion or seat back.

[0365] The interior member may be a door, a door armrest, a steering wheel, a dashboard, a center console, an air conditioning vent, or the like.

[0366] The interior member may be a member that resembles a part of an animal's body, such as cat ears. The interior member may be made of a raised material.

[0367] The character may be an animal other than a cat, or may be an anthropomorphized character of an object, living thing, etc. The character may be set in advance, and may be, for example, an image of a deformed passenger.

[0368] The vehicle is not limited to an automobile, but may be any other vehicle, such as a motorcycle or a train.

[0369] The collision detection unit may be an inter-vehicle distance sensor that detects the distance between the vehicle and a vehicle ahead.

[0370] The following is an example of a method for manufacturing a vehicle interior system: A method for manufacturing a vehicle interior system comprising: an interior member for a vehicle, a screen, a line-of-sight guidance unit that guides the user's line of sight with light; and a control unit, wherein the control unit displays on the screen a video of a character moving from within the screen to outside the screen, and controls the line-of-sight guidance unit based on the movement of the character, thereby guiding the user's line of sight from the screen to a destination interior member that is an interior member corresponding to the destination of the character, the method comprising the steps of attaching the screen, the line-of-sight guidance unit, the control unit, and the destination interior member to the vehicle, and connecting the screen and the line-of-sight guidance unit to the control unit.

[0371] The elements described in the above-described embodiment and modified examples may be implemented in any combination.

Claims

1. A seat system comprising: a seat cushion; a movable member including any one of a seat back, a headrest, an armrest and an ottoman, the movable member being movable relative to the seat cushion; a display unit; and a control unit, wherein the control unit displays a character on the display unit and moves the character in response to the movement of the movable member.

2. The seat system according to claim 1, further comprising a sensor for detecting the movement of the movable member, and the control unit moves the character based on information obtained from the sensor.

3. The seat system according to claim 2, wherein the control unit changes the speed of the character's movement based on the information obtained from the sensor.

4. The seat system described in claim 1, further comprising an operation unit for operating the movable member and an electric device for moving the movable member, wherein the control unit operates the electric device based on an operation command output from the operation unit, and moves the character according to the operation command or the amount of operation of the electric device.

5. The seat system described in claim 1, characterized in that the control unit estimates a fatigue level of a user seated in the seat, displays the estimated fatigue level as a fatigue status of the character on the display unit, and changes the fatigue status in accordance with the movement of the movable member.

6. The seat system described in claim 5, characterized in that the movable member is a seat back that rotates relative to the seat cushion, and the control unit lowers the fatigue status when an angle of the seat back relative to the seat cushion becomes equal to or greater than a predetermined value.

7. The seat system according to claim 1, further comprising a plurality of the seats, and wherein the control unit moves the character in accordance with the movement of the movable member of each of the plurality of seats.

8. The seat system according to claim 1, wherein the movable member is a rotatable armrest, and the control unit moves the character in accordance with the amount of rotation of the armrest.

9. A vehicle interior system comprising: the seat system described in claim 1; a first electric device that is operated when electricity is applied; a second electric device that is operated when electricity is applied; an operation unit for operating the first electric device; and a motion detection unit that detects a user's motion to operate the operation unit, wherein the control unit operates the first electric device with a first motion based on an operation command from the operation unit, and is capable of determining whether or not the user intends to operate the operation unit based on information obtained from the motion detection unit, and when it is determined that the user intends to operate the operation unit, operates the first electric device with a second motion different from the first motion, or executes a tamper process to operate the second electric device.

10. A vehicle interior system comprising: the seat system described in claim 1; an interior component for a vehicle; a screen provided on the display unit; and a gaze guidance unit that guides the user's gaze with light, wherein the control unit displays on the screen a video of a character moving from within the screen to outside the screen, and controls the gaze guidance unit based on the movement of the character, thereby guiding the user's gaze from the screen to a destination interior component that corresponds to the destination of the character.

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