Vehicle system

Abstract

[Problem] To report biological information about a user to surrounding people in a manner that is easier to understand. A vehicle system (1) comprises: a seat (10) as an example of an interior member that is disposed within a vehicle (C); a decorative article (20) provided to the interior member; a winch (23) as an example of an electric device for changing the shape of the decorative article (20); a heartbeat sensor (61) and a respiration sensor (62) as an example of sensors for acquiring biological information about the user; and a control unit (50). On the basis of the biological information acquired from the sensors, the control unit (50) operates the electric device and changes the shape of the decorative article (20).

Description

Vehicle Systems

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

[0002] A seat equipped with a wakefulness maintenance device and an indicator lamp that indicates that the wakefulness maintenance device is operating has been known (see JP 2016-193656 A). The wakefulness maintenance device includes a breathing sensor, a control device, and a vibration unit. The control device receives the breathing signal of the seated occupant detected by the breathing sensor to determine the wakefulness state of the seated occupant, and activates the vibration unit if it determines that the occupant is not in an wakeful state. This technology can notify the seated occupant and those around them that the wakefulness maintenance device is operating normally, thereby more reliably preventing the seated occupant from falling asleep.

[0003] However, in conventional technology, the operating status of the wakefulness maintenance device is indicated by lighting up an indicator lamp. Therefore, in situations where it is difficult to see the light of the indicator lamp, such as when the environment around the seat is bright, there is a risk that people nearby may find it difficult to understand the operating status of the wakefulness maintenance device and, ultimately, the status of the person seated.

[0004] It is desirable to notify surrounding people of a user's biological information in a manner that is easier to understand.

[0005] In consideration of the above background, a vehicle system is disclosed that includes an interior member arranged in a vehicle, an ornament attached to the interior member, an electric device that changes the shape of the ornament, a sensor that acquires biometric information of a user, and a control unit. The control unit operates the electric device and changes the shape of the ornament based on the biometric information acquired from the sensor.

[0006] According to this configuration, the shape of the accessory changes according to the user's biometric information, so that even if the environment around the user is bright, the user's biometric condition can be more clearly communicated to those around them.

[0007] The decorative item may also protrude from the interior member.

[0008] By having the ornament protrude from the interior member, the ornament can be made to stand out, and the user's biological condition can be more clearly notified to those around.

[0009] In addition, the ornament can be transformed into a first shape that extends in one direction and a second bent shape, and when the control unit determines that the user is tired based on biometric information obtained from the sensor, it may activate the electric device to transform the ornament from the first shape to the second shape.

[0010] When something that was straight bends, it is easy to associate it with something that was once healthy becoming exhausted, such as a healthy plant withering, so by bending an ornament when the user is tired, people around the user can easily recognize that the user is tired.

[0011] The interior member may be a headrest of a seat, and the decorative item may protrude upward from the headrest.

[0012] By having the ornament protrude upward from the headrest, the ornament can be made to stand out, and the user's biological condition can be more clearly notified to those around.

[0013] The vehicle system may further include a display unit, and the control unit may cause the display unit to display an image indicating the user's biological condition based on the biological information acquired from the sensor.

[0014] According to this, the user's biological condition is expressed by the image on the display unit and the accessory, so that the user's biological condition can be more clearly notified to those around.

[0015] The control unit may also be capable of displaying a character image on the display unit, and may change the character image based on the biometric information acquired from the sensor.

[0016] According to this, for example, by changing the facial expression of the character image in accordance with the biometric information, the biometric condition of the user can be notified to those around the user in a more easily understandable manner.

[0017] The ornament may also have a touch sensor that outputs a signal when touched by the user, and the control unit may move the ornament based on the signal from the touch sensor.

[0018] According to this configuration, the ornament moves when the user touches it, which increases the entertainment value.

[0019] The control unit may also change the number of movements of the accessory per predetermined time period based on the biological information acquired from the sensor.

[0020] This allows the user's level of fatigue to be expressed in multiple stages by changing the number of movements of the accessory.

[0021] The accessory may also have a light, and the control unit may turn on the light based on the biological information acquired from the sensor.

[0022] According to this, the user's biological condition is expressed by the lighting and the change in shape of the ornament, so that the user's biological condition can be more clearly notified to those around.

[0023] The ornament may also be shaped to resemble a part of an animal's body.

[0024] According to this, for example, if the ornament is shaped like an animal's ear, the user can bend the ornament when tired, making it easier for those around the user to recognize that they are tired.

[0025] In addition, when the control unit predicts a vehicle collision based on information from a collision detection unit installed in the vehicle, it may prohibit changes to the shape of the ornament based on biometric information and may predict the vehicle collision by moving the ornament before the vehicle collision.

[0026] According to this, when a vehicle is about to collide, the movement of the ornament can warn people around the vehicle of the impending collision.

[0027] Furthermore, a conventional vehicle system is known that, when it is predicted that the assist process will transition to deceleration control, tilts the seat slightly forward to give the driver a pseudo-sense of deceleration, thereby communicating to the driver the system's intention that driving control appropriate to the situation is being performed (see Patent Publication No. 7312378).

[0028] However, since the assist process may involve not only deceleration but also acceleration and turning controls, there was a problem that the details of the assist process could not be conveyed by simply tilting the seat as in the past.

[0029] Therefore, it is desirable to provide a vehicle system that can communicate the details of the assist process.

[0030] In view of the above background, a vehicle system in another aspect is a system that assists a driver in driving by performing an assist process that accelerates or decelerates the vehicle or changes the steering angle based on the vehicle's surrounding environment. The vehicle system includes a seat in which a user sits, an electric device that moves a portion of the seating surface of the seat, and a controller. The electric device includes a vibration device and / or an air cell. When performing the assist process, the controller executes a device linkage process that activates the electric device in accordance with the movement of the vehicle operated by the assist process.

[0031] With this configuration, the vibration device or air cell can provide a wide variety of tactile sensations, making it possible to convey detailed information about the assist process to the user.

[0032] Furthermore, the control unit may execute the device linking process when the magnitude of the acceleration or steering angle changed by the assist process exceeds a predetermined threshold.

[0033] According to this configuration, the device-linked processing is not executed when the acceleration or steering angle is changed below a predetermined threshold, thereby reducing confusion and improving comfort.

[0034] The control unit may also change the operation pattern of the electric device based on the acceleration or steering angle changed by the assist process.

[0035] According to this configuration, the operation pattern of the electric device can convey the details of the assist process to the user.

[0036] In addition, the vehicle system may be equipped with multiple electric devices, and the control unit may select an electric device to operate from among the multiple devices depending on whether the driving operation to be assisted by the assist processing is acceleration, deceleration, right turn, or left turn.

[0037] With this configuration, the user can grasp the details of the assist process depending on the position of the electric device that is being operated.

[0038] The electric device may be a vibration device, and the control unit may change the strength of vibration of the vibration device based on the magnitude of the acceleration changed by the assist process.

[0039] According to this configuration, for example, by increasing the strength of vibration as the acceleration increases, the magnitude of acceleration can be intuitively understood from the strength of vibration from the seating surface.

[0040] In addition, the electric device may be an air cell, at least one air cell being provided on each of the left and right sides of the seat, and the control unit may inflate one of the left and right air cells based on the steering angle changed by the assist processing.

[0041] With this configuration, the user can understand that steering control is being performed by the pressure from either the left or right side of the seating surface as one of the left or right air cells expands.

[0042] The air cell may also include a bag and an air pump that introduces air into the bag, and the control unit may change the amount of air flowing from the air pump into the bag based on the steering angle changed by the assist process.

[0043] According to this configuration, the amount of air flowing into the bag is changed based on the steering angle, so that the user can understand the magnitude of the changed steering angle, for example, by the amount of expansion of the air cell bag.

[0044] The device may further include a display unit that displays a character, and the control unit may move the character in accordance with the operation of the electric device in the device linking process.

[0045] According to this configuration, the character moves in accordance with the operation of the electric device during device linkage processing, so the user can feel that the character is performing the assist processing through the operation of the electric device, and the user can feel as if the vehicle and the character are one.

[0046] Furthermore, at least one speaker may be provided on each of the left and right sides of the seat, and the control unit may output sound from one of the left and right speakers based on the steering angle changed by the assist process.

[0047] According to this configuration, sound is output from one of the left and right speakers based on the steering angle, so the user can auditorily understand that the vehicle has turned as a result of the assist processing.

[0048] Furthermore, when the control unit predicts a vehicle collision based on information from a collision detection unit provided in the vehicle, the control unit does not need to execute the device linkage process.

[0049] According to this configuration, if there is a possibility of a vehicle collision, the device linking process is not executed, thereby improving safety.

[0050] Furthermore, a conventional vehicle system includes a first suspension installed between the seat and the vehicle body, a second suspension installed between the vehicle body and the wheels, a stroke detection means for detecting the maximum and minimum strokes of the second suspension, and a first suspension control means for controlling the first suspension to reduce its rigidity when the maximum or minimum stroke is detected by the stroke detection means (see Japanese Patent Laid-Open Publication No. 2000-280806). According to this technology, when a strong impact is applied from the wheels to the vehicle body due to the state of the second suspension, the rigidity of the first suspension is reduced, thereby making it possible to reduce the impact from the vehicle body to the seat.

[0051] However, in conventional technology, the rigidity of the first suspension is simply changed depending on the state of the second suspension, and the shape of the seat surface remains unchanged, so it is not possible to obtain holding power suitable for impacts.

[0052] Therefore, it is desired to provide a vehicle system that can provide holding performance suitable for impact.

[0053] In view of the above background, a vehicle system in another aspect includes a body frame that supports a seat, an impact absorbing means disposed between a road surface and the body frame, an electric device that moves a portion of a surface of the seat facing an occupant, and a control unit. The impact absorbing means absorbs impact from the road surface. The impact absorbing means is capable of changing the impact absorption level. The control unit operates the electric device based on the impact absorption level.

[0054] According to this configuration, the electric device is operated based on the impact absorption rate, so the surface of the seat facing the occupant can be shaped to suit the impact, thereby obtaining holding performance that is suitable for the impact.

[0055] The electrically powered device may be an air cell, and the control unit may change the size of the air cell based on the shock absorption rate.

[0056] According to this configuration, for example, if the size of the air cells is increased when the impact absorption is low, the seat becomes harder and the impact is more easily transmitted to the seat, so the user sitting in the seat can understand the state of the impact absorbing means.

[0057] The seat also has a seat cushion and a seat back, and the seat cushion and / or seat back has a seating surface that supports the occupant and protruding portions located on the left and right sides of the seating surface that protrude from the seating surface, and the protruding portions may have air cells.

[0058] According to this configuration, for example, if the size of the air cell is increased when the shock absorption is low, the user-side surface of the protruding portion moves toward the user and comes into contact with the user, thereby improving the holdability.

[0059] In addition, the impact absorbing means may be a suspension device of the vehicle, and the degree of impact absorption may be changed by adjusting the damping force of the suspension device, and when the damping force is less than a predetermined value, the control unit may position the inner surface, which is the surface of the protrusion facing the occupant, at a first position by changing the air cell to a first shape, and when the damping force is greater than the predetermined value, may position the inner surface at a second position closer to the occupant than the first position by changing the air cell to a second shape that is more expanded than the first shape.

[0060] According to this configuration, when the damping force is equal to or greater than a predetermined value, the user is supported by the inner surface located in the second position, thereby improving the holdability.

[0061] The vehicle system may further include a display unit that displays an image of the impact absorbing means and a character, and the control unit may, when the impact absorption rate is changed, display an image of the character changing the impact absorption rate using the display unit.

[0062] This configuration gives the user the illusion that the character is changing its shock absorption rate, improving entertainment value.

[0063] The seat may further include a vibration device, and the control unit may change the strength of vibration of the vibration device based on the shock absorption rate.

[0064] According to this configuration, the vibration strength of the vibration device is changed based on the shock absorption, so that the user can understand the change in the shock absorption by the vibration strength. For example, by increasing the vibration strength when the shock absorption is low, the user can intuitively understand the change in the shock absorption by the vibration strength.

[0065] The protruding portion may also have a vibration device, and the control unit may activate the vibration device when the air cell causes the inner surface to move in a direction approaching the seat occupant.

[0066] In addition, the protrusion portion may have a sensor that detects when the inner surface is in contact with the occupant, and the control unit may determine the size of the air cell based on information obtained from the sensor when the air cell causes the inner surface to move in a direction toward the occupant.

[0067] The sensor may be a pressure sensor, and the control unit may activate the vibration device when a pressure value acquired from the sensor exceeds a threshold value.

[0068] According to this configuration, the vibration device is activated when the protruding portion comes into close contact with the user, so that vibrations can be reliably transmitted to the user.

[0069] The shock absorbing means may be an adjusting device that adjusts the hardness of the tire, and the degree of shock absorption may be changed by adjusting the hardness of the tire.

[0070] The vehicle system may further include an operating unit that is operated by a seated occupant and that changes the impact absorption rate of the impact absorbing means.

[0071] Furthermore, a vehicle system has been known in the past that includes a robot placed on the dashboard, a detection unit that detects the movement of objects inside and outside the vehicle, and a control unit that causes the robot to perform related operations that are related to the movement (see JP 2023-167327 A).

[0072] However, in the prior art, the robot simply moves, so it lacks entertainment value.

[0073] Therefore, there is a demand for a vehicle system that can enhance entertainment value in a vehicle system equipped with a robot and a control unit.

[0074] In view of the above, a vehicle system according to another aspect includes a seat having an electric device, a robot positioned in a position visible to a user seated in the seat, and a control unit, wherein the control unit executes a linking process for linking the operation of the robot with the operation of the electric device.

[0075] With this configuration, the robot and the seat's electric device are linked, which makes it more entertaining than a configuration in which only the robot moves.

[0076] In addition, the control unit may operate the electric device in accordance with the movement of the robot in the interlocking process.

[0077] With this configuration, the seat's electric device operates in response to the robot's movements, allowing the user to experience the action movements performed by the robot together with the user, thereby enhancing the entertainment value.

[0078] The vehicle system may further include an operation unit for operating the electric device, and the control unit may execute the interlocking process based on information acquired from the operation unit.

[0079] According to this configuration, the robot imitates the seat's movements, creating a sense of familiarity, which enhances the entertainment value.

[0080] The seat may also have a sensor that detects when the user touches the seat, and the control unit may execute the linked process based on information obtained from the sensor.

[0081] With this configuration, when the user touches the seat, the seat and the robot move, allowing the user to feel as if they are communicating with the robot through the seat, thereby enhancing the entertainment value.

[0082] The sensor may also be disposed at a position that avoids the seating surface of the seat.

[0083] The seat may also have a second electric device different from the electric device and a second sensor that detects when the user touches the seat and is positioned at a different position from the sensor, and the control unit may operate the robot with a first action and activate the electric device based on information from the sensor, and operate the robot with a second action different from the first action and activate the second electric device based on information from the second sensor.

[0084] With this configuration, the robot and the seat move in accordance with the position where the user touches the seat, thereby enhancing the entertainment value.

[0085] The vehicle system may further include a voice acquisition unit that acquires voice, and the control unit may execute the linked process based on an operation command from the user acquired by the voice acquisition unit.

[0086] The robot may also have a display unit that displays a sheet image that resembles a sheet, and the control unit may move the sheet image in the linked processing.

[0087] According to this configuration, the user can easily understand the operation of the seat through the seat image.

[0088] In addition, when the vehicle system has multiple seats and the control unit executes the linked processing for a specific seat among the multiple seats, the control unit may move the robot and point the display unit toward the specific seat, and then execute the linked processing.

[0089] According to this configuration, when linked processing is executed for a specified seat, the display unit faces the specified seat, making it easier for the user seated in the specified seat to see the seat image and giving the user seated in the specified seat the feeling that they are communicating with the robot.

[0090] The vehicle system may further include an acceleration sensor that detects the acceleration of the vehicle in the forward / backward direction, the robot may be tiltable in the forward / backward direction, the electric device may be an air cell that moves a portion of the surface of the seat facing the user, and the control unit may tilt the robot in the forward / backward direction and activate the air cell based on the acceleration obtained from the acceleration sensor.

[0091] With this configuration, the user can feel the acceleration of the vehicle in the forward and backward directions through the tilting of the robot and the operation of the air cells, allowing the user to feel a sense of unity with the vehicle.

[0092] The vehicle system may further include an acceleration sensor that detects acceleration in the left-right direction of the vehicle, the robot may be capable of tilting in the left-right direction, the electric device may be an air cell that moves a portion of the surface of the seat facing the user, the seat may have a seating surface that supports the user and protruding portions located on the left and right sides of the seating surface and protruding from the seating surface, the protruding portions having air cells, and the control unit may tilt the robot in the left-right direction and activate the air cells based on the acceleration obtained from the acceleration sensor.

[0093] With this configuration, the user can feel the acceleration of the vehicle in the left and right direction through the tilting of the robot and the operation of the air cells, allowing the user to feel a sense of unity with the vehicle.

[0094] The vehicle system may further include a collision detection unit provided in the vehicle, and the control unit may move the robot and the electric device when it predicts a vehicle collision based on information acquired from the collision detection unit.

[0095] According to this configuration, if there is a possibility of a vehicle collision, the robot and the electric device will move to notify the user of the possibility of a vehicle collision, thereby improving safety.

[0096] 1 is a diagram showing a vehicle system according to a first embodiment; FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the relationship between sensors, ornaments, monitors, and a control unit; FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view showing the structure of an ornament, with (a) showing the ornament in a first shape and (b) showing the ornament in a second shape; FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing the operation of the control unit; FIG. 5 is a diagram showing the state of the ornament and the monitor display, with (a) showing the state when the user is not tired, (b) showing the state when the user is slightly tired, and (c) showing the state when the user is very tired; FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing the operation of the control unit according to a second embodiment; FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing the operation of the control unit according to a third embodiment; FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view showing an ornament according to a fourth embodiment; FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing the operation of the control unit according to the fourth embodiment; FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view showing an ornament according to a fifth embodiment, with (a) showing the state when the movable part of the ornament is in a lower position and (b) showing the state when the movable part is in an upper position; FIG. 11 is a diagram showing modified positions for installing ornaments; FIG. 12 is a diagram showing a vehicle system according to a sixth embodiment; FIG. 13 is a diagram showing the relationship between the assistance target of the assist process and the device to be operated, with (b) showing the process of intermittently operating the vibration device, and (c) showing the process of continuously operating the vibration device. 13 is a diagram showing an image when the vehicle is accelerated by assist processing. FIG. 14 is a diagram showing an image when the vehicle is decelerated by assist processing. FIG. 15 is a diagram showing an image when the vehicle is turned right by assist processing. A flowchart showing the operation of the control unit. FIG. 16 is a diagram showing a vehicle system according to a seventh embodiment. FIG. 17 is a diagram showing the relationship between an assist target of the assist processing and an air cell to be activated. A flowchart showing the operation of the control unit according to the seventh embodiment. FIG. 18 is a diagram showing an image when turning right in the seventh embodiment (a), and a diagram showing the state of the air cell (b). FIG. 19 is a diagram showing a vehicle system according to an eighth embodiment. A perspective view showing the structure around the seat. A cross-sectional view showing the structure of a protruding portion of the seat, with FIG. 19 showing a state in which the air cell is contracted and FIG. 19 shows a state in which the air cell is inflated. FIG. 19 is a diagram showing an image displayed on a screen. A flowchart showing the operation of the control unit. FIG. 19 is a diagram showing a vehicle system according to a ninth embodiment.11A and 11B are cross-sectional views showing the structure of a base portion of a seat, with (a) showing a state in which an air cell is contracted and (b) showing a state in which the air cell is inflated. FIG. 11B is a flowchart showing the operation of a control unit according to a ninth embodiment. FIG. 11C is a flowchart showing the operation of a control unit according to a modified example of the ninth embodiment. FIG. 11D is a diagram showing a configuration in which an air cell is activated depending on the difference in the amount of expansion and contraction of springs in left and right suspension systems. FIG. 11E is a diagram showing an adjustment device for adjusting tire hardness. FIG. 11F is a diagram showing a vehicle system according to a tenth embodiment. FIG. 11F is a rear view of the structure around the dashboard. FIG. 11H is a perspective view showing the structure around a robot. FIG. 11A to 11D are diagrams showing the operation of the robot. FIG. 11D is a diagram showing the operation of the robot when the seat back is tilted backward. FIG. 11E is a diagram showing the operation of the robot when the seat is moved backward. FIG. 11F is a diagram showing the relationship between operation commands and the operation of the robot. FIG. 11D is a flowchart showing the operation of a control unit. FIG. 11F is a diagram showing a vehicle system according to an eleventh embodiment. FIG. 11A is a diagram showing the operation of the robot when a user touches a first sensor. FIG. 11B is a diagram showing the operation of the robot when a user touches a second sensor. FIG. 11C is a flowchart showing the operation of a control unit according to an eleventh embodiment. 12A to 12D are diagrams showing a vehicle system according to a 12th embodiment. FIG. 13D is a flowchart showing the operation of a control unit according to the 12th embodiment. FIG. 14A is a diagram showing a vehicle system according to a 13th embodiment, and shows diagrams (a) and (b) showing the movement of the seat and robot when the vehicle turns left. FIG. 14B is a diagram showing the movement of the seat and robot when the vehicle accelerates forward. FIG. 14B is a flowchart showing the operation of a control unit according to the 13th embodiment. FIG. 14C is a diagram showing a vehicle system according to a 14th embodiment. FIG. 14D is a flowchart showing the operation of a control unit according to the 14th embodiment. FIG. 14D is a perspective view showing modified examples of the seat and sensor positions. FIG. 14D is a diagram showing modified examples of the ... a tactile sensor as a modified example of a sensor.

[0097] [First Embodiment] Hereinafter, a vehicle system according to a first embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. As shown in Fig. 1, the vehicle system 1 includes a seat 10 as an example of an interior member, an ornament 20 provided on the seat 10, a camera 30 as an example of a collision detection unit, a monitor 40 as an example of a display unit, and a control unit 50. The seat 10, the camera 30, and the monitor 40 are arranged in a vehicle C, more specifically, in positions facing the passenger compartment. In this embodiment, the seat 10 is a driver's seat.

[0098] The camera 30 is a camera that captures an image ahead of the vehicle C. Image information captured by the camera 30 is output to the control unit 50.

[0099] The monitor 40 has a screen for displaying an image. The image displayed on the monitor 40 can be changed by the control unit 50. The monitor 40 can be disposed on the dashboard, for example, below the rearview mirror.

[0100] As shown in FIG. 2, the seat 10 has a seat body 10A, and a heart rate sensor 61 and a breathing sensor 62 as examples of sensors.

[0101] The seat body 10A is a member having a seating surface that supports the user. The seat body 10A includes a seat cushion 11, a seat back 12, and a headrest 13. The seat cushion 11, the seat back 12, and the headrest 13 each 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 11 forms the seating surface. The front surfaces of the seat back 12 and the headrest 13 form the seating surface.

[0102] The heart rate sensor 61 and the breathing sensor 62 are sensors that acquire biological information of a user seated in the seat 10. In the following description, the user seated in the seat 10 will also be referred to as a "seat occupant."

[0103] The heartbeat sensor 61 is a sensing device that uses capacitively coupled electrodes to non-contactly measure the electrocardiogram signal of the seated occupant. Here, the electrocardiogram signal refers to an action potential signal that occurs in conjunction with the heartbeat of the seated occupant. The heartbeat sensor 61 is provided on the seat back 12. The electrocardiogram signal detected by the heartbeat sensor 61 is output to the control unit 50.

[0104] The breathing sensor 62 is provided on the seat cushion 11. The breathing sensor 62 has electrodes on the top and bottom. The breathing sensor 62 is a resistance pressure sensor (pressure sensor) that detects a current flowing through an electrical resistance that changes in response to the breathing of the seated occupant.

[0105] Here, when pressure is applied to the electrode on the top surface of the breathing sensor 62, the electrode on the top surface deforms downward, increasing contact resistance and decreasing the electrical resistance value between the electrodes. An electrical signal related to this electrical resistance value is output from the breathing sensor 62 to the control unit 50. The control unit 50 calculates pressure based on the electrical signal related to the electrical resistance value and obtains breathing data based on the calculated pressure.

[0106] The heart rate sensor 61 may be provided on the seat cushion 11 and the breathing sensor 62 may be provided on the seat back 12 .

[0107] The control unit 50 has a CPU, ROM, RAM, rewritable nonvolatile memory, etc. (not shown), and executes pre-stored programs. The control unit 50 has a function of estimating the fatigue level of the seated occupant based on biological information acquired from at least one of the heart rate sensor 61 and the respiration sensor 62.

[0108] As an example, the control unit 50 measures the sympathetic nerve activity of the seated occupant based on heart rate information acquired from the heart rate sensor 61. Specifically, the control unit 50 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. The control unit 50 then determines the sympathetic nerve activity (LF / HF) as 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 fatigue level of the seated occupant is estimated to be.

[0109] The method for estimating the fatigue level of the seated occupant is not limited to the above example. For example, the control unit 50 may determine the fatigue level of the seated occupant based on the interval between breaths or the arousal level determined based on the breath (at least a level indicating whether the occupant is in an arousal state or a low arousal state) based on information acquired from the breathing sensor 62. Specifically, the shorter the interval between breaths of the seated occupant, the higher the fatigue level may be determined to be, or the fatigue level may be determined to be high when the arousal level of the seated occupant is in a low arousal state.

[0110] The control unit 50 may also use the sum of the individual fatigue levels determined based on the sympathetic nerve activity level based on the heart rate, breathing intervals, and arousal level as the fatigue level of the seated occupant.

[0111] Two ornaments 20 are provided on the headrest 13 so as to protrude upward from the headrest 13. The two ornaments 20 are arranged side by side on the left and right with a gap between them.

[0112] The ornament 20 has a shape that resembles a part of an animal's body. In this embodiment, the ornament 20 has a shape that resembles cat ears. More specifically, the ornament 20 has a triangular shape when viewed from the front, with its width in the left-right direction gradually decreasing from bottom to top.

[0113] 3, the ornament 20 has a first link 21, a second link 22, a winch 23 as an example of an electric device, a wire 24, a pad 25, and a cover 26. The ornaments 20 on the left and right sides have the same structure.

[0114] The first link 21 is fixed to the upper surface of the winch 23 so as to extend upward from the winch 23.

[0115] The second link 22 is rotatably connected to the upper end of the first link 21. The second link 22 is rotatable between an upright position shown in Fig. 3(a) and a reclined position shown in Fig. 3(b).

[0116] When the second link 22 is in the upright position, the upper end is positioned slightly forward of the lower end. When the second link 22 is in the tilted position, the upper end is positioned lower than the lower end. The angle formed between the front surface of the first link 21 and the front surface of the second link 22 (hereinafter also referred to as the "link angle") is smaller when the second link 22 is in the tilted position than when it is in the upright position.

[0117] The link angle when the second link 22 is in the upright position is greater than 90°. The link angle when the second link 22 is in the reclined position is less than 90°.

[0118] The second link 22 is biased from the upright position toward the tilted position by a spring (not shown). One end of a wire 24 is fixed to the upper end of the second link 22.

[0119] The winch 23 has a function of rotating the second link 22 between the upright position and the tilted position by winding up the wire 24 or releasing the tension on the wire 24. More specifically, when the winch 23 is rotated forward to wind up the wire 24 while the second link 22 is in the tilted position, the second link 22 rotates from the tilted position to the upright position against the biasing force of the spring. When the winch 23 is rotated backward to release the tension on the wire 24 while the second link 22 is in the upright position, the second link 22 rotates from the upright position to the tilted position due to the biasing force of the spring.

[0120] Alternatively, the second link 22 may be configured to rotate from the upright position to the tilted position by its own weight without providing a spring. Alternatively, contrary to the present embodiment, a spring may bias the second link 22 from the tilted position toward the upright position. In this case, the second link 22 may be rotated from the upright position to the tilted position by winding up the wire 24 with the winch 23.

[0121] Pad 25 is made of urethane foam or the like and covers first link 21, second link 22, and winch 23. Pad 25 has an outer shape resembling cat ears. Cover 26 is made of synthetic leather, fabric, or the like and covers pad 25. Pad 25 and cover 26 are deformable in response to rotation of second link 22.

[0122] The decorative element 20 configured as described above can be transformed into a first shape shown in Fig. 3(a) and a second shape shown in Fig. 3(b). When in the first shape, the decorative element 20 extends in one direction, specifically upward, from the headrest 13. When in the second shape, the decorative element 20 bends so that its tip faces diagonally downward and forward. The shape of the decorative element 20 is changed by the operation of the winch 23 and spring described above.

[0123] The headrest 13 has a recess 13A into which the decorative element 20 fits. The decorative element 20 is detachable from the headrest 13. The decorative element 20 and the headrest 13 each have a connector. When the connectors are connected, the winch 23 and the control unit 50 are electrically connected. Note that the decorative element 20 may be fixed to the headrest 13 in an undetachable manner.

[0124] Returning to Figure 2, the control unit 50 has the function of activating at least one of the left and right winches 23 and changing the shape of the ornament 20 based on biometric information acquired from at least one of the heart rate sensor 61 and the breathing sensor 62. Specifically, when the control unit 50 determines that the user is tired based on the biometric information acquired from at least one of the heart rate sensor 61 and the breathing sensor 62, it activates the winch 23 to transform the ornament 20 from the first shape to the second shape. In this embodiment, the control unit 50 bends only one side of the ornament 20 or bends both the left and right ornaments 20 depending on the level of fatigue estimated from the biometric information (see Figure 5).

[0125] The control unit 50 has a function of displaying a character image indicating the user's biological condition on the monitor 40 based on biological information acquired from at least one of the heart rate sensor 61 and the breathing sensor 62. In detail, the control unit 50 changes the facial expression of the character image displayed on the monitor 40 in accordance with the fatigue level estimated from the biological information (see FIG. 5).

[0126] The control unit 50 also has the function of predicting whether or not the vehicle C is about to collide, based on information from the camera 30 provided on the vehicle C. If the control unit 50 predicts a collision of the vehicle C, it prohibits changes to the shape of the ornament 20 based on the biometric information, and moves the ornament 20 before the collision of the vehicle C, thereby predicting the collision of the vehicle C.

[0127] In more detail, when the control unit 50 predicts a collision of the vehicle C, it moves the ornaments 20 in a manner that differs from the movement of the ornaments 20 based on the biometric information. In this embodiment, when the control unit 50 predicts a collision of the vehicle C, it performs bending and stretching movements of the ornaments 20, alternating multiple times for the left and right ornaments 20.

[0128] Next, the operation of the control unit 50 will be described in detail. In the following description, the ornament 20 will also be referred to simply as "cat ears." In the following description, the fatigue level will be estimated using both the heart rate information detected by the heart rate sensor 61 and the breathing information detected by the breathing sensor 62.

[0129] The control unit 50 repeatedly executes the process shown in Fig. 4. In the process shown in Fig. 4, the control unit 50 first acquires heart rate information from the heart rate sensor 61 and respiratory information from the respiratory sensor 62 (S1).

[0130] After step S1, the control unit 50 estimates the fatigue level based on the heart rate information and the respiration information (S2). After step S2, the control unit 50 determines whether the fatigue level is equal to or greater than a first threshold value TH1 (S3).

[0131] If it is determined in step S3 that the fatigue level is not equal to or greater than the first threshold value TH1 (No), the control unit 50 changes the facial expression of the character on the screen of the monitor 40 to a normal state as shown in Figure 5 (a) (S13).

[0132] If it is determined in step S3 that the fatigue level is equal to or greater than the first threshold value TH1 (Yes), the control unit 50 determines whether the fatigue level is equal to or greater than a second threshold value TH2 that is greater than the first threshold value TH1 (S4).If it is determined in step S4 that the fatigue level is not equal to or greater than the second threshold value TH2 (No), the control unit 50 activates only one winch 23 to bend only one cat ear (S11).

[0133] After step S11, the control unit 50 changes the facial expression of the character on the screen of the monitor 40 to a first fatigue state as shown in Fig. 5(b) (S12). The facial expression in the first fatigue state may be any expression as long as it is slightly more tired than the normal state.

[0134] If it is determined in step S4 that the fatigue level is equal to or greater than the second threshold value TH2 (Yes), the control unit 50 operates the left and right winches 23 to bend the left and right cat ears (S5). Note that if one of the cat ears has already been bent in step S5, the control unit 50 bends the left and right cat ears by operating only the winch 23 corresponding to the cat ear that is not bent.

[0135] After step S5, the control unit 50 changes the facial expression of the character on the screen of the monitor 40 to a second fatigue state as shown in Fig. 5(c) (S6). The facial expression in the second fatigue state may be any expression as long as it is more tired than the facial expression in the first fatigue state.

[0136] After step S6, step S12, or step S13, the control unit 50 acquires information from the camera 30 (S7). After step S7, the control unit 50 determines whether or not there is a possibility of a collision of the vehicle C based on the information acquired from the camera 30 (S8).

[0137] If it is determined in step S8 that there is no possibility of a collision (No), the control unit 50 ends this process. If it is determined in step S8 that there is a possibility of a collision (Yes), the control unit 50 alternately operates the left and right winches 23 multiple times, thereby bending and stretching the left and right cat ears multiple times (S9).

[0138] After step S9, the control unit 50 displays a collision forecast on the screen of the monitor 40 (S10), and ends this process. The collision forecast may be, for example, an image of text such as "Be careful, there is a risk of a collision," or an image of two cars colliding.

[0139] The condition for returning the bent cat ears to their original upright state may be any condition. For example, the control unit 50 may operate the winch 23 to return the bent cat ears to their upright state when the user leaves the seat 10. The determination of whether the user has left the seat 10 may be made based on information from at least one of the heart rate sensor 61 and the breathing sensor 62, for example, or may be made based on a signal from a seating sensor that detects whether the user is seated.

[0140] Next, a specific example of the operation of the control unit 50 will be described. When a user in good health sits on the seat 10, the control unit 50 determines that the user's fatigue level is less than the first threshold value TH1 based on information from the heart rate sensor 61 and the breathing sensor 62, and keeps the left and right cat ears erect and changes the facial expression of the character on the screen to a normal state, as shown in Fig. 5(a) (S1 to S3: No → S13).

[0141] When the user's fatigue level due to driving vehicle C becomes equal to or greater than first threshold TH1 and less than second threshold TH2, the control unit 50 bends one of the cat ears and changes the facial expression of the character on the screen to a first fatigue state, as shown in FIG. 5B (S1-S3: Yes → S4: No → S11, S12). By bending one of the cat ears in this way, even someone sitting in the back seat who has difficulty seeing the screen of monitor 40 can notice something is wrong with the user and encourage the user to take a break. Furthermore, the user and the person sitting in the passenger seat can know the user's level of fatigue by looking at the facial expression of the character displayed on monitor 40.

[0142] A user who is prompted to take a break may continue driving, feeling that they are still in good spirits. In this case, if the user's fatigue level reaches or exceeds the second threshold TH2 after a long period of driving, the control unit 50 bends both cat ears and changes the facial expression of the character on the screen to a second fatigue state, as shown in FIG. 5(c) (S1-S3: Yes → S4: Yes → S5, S6). This allows the person in the back seat to understand that the user's fatigue level has reached its peak because both cat ears are bent, and strongly recommends that the user take a break. Furthermore, when the user sees that the facial expression of the character displayed on the monitor 40 is very tired, they will be forced to take a break out of consideration for the safety of their passengers, thereby preventing accidents caused by user overconfidence.

[0143] Furthermore, the control unit 50 alternately bends and stretches the cat ears when it predicts a collision of the vehicle C. A person sitting in the back seat will sense an uneasy atmosphere from the abnormal movement of the cat ears, and will be able to naturally correct their posture and prepare for the collision.

[0144] As described above, this embodiment can provide the following advantages: Because the shape of the ornament 20 changes in response to the user's biometric information, the user's biometric condition can be more clearly communicated to those around the user, even if the user's surrounding environment is bright.

[0145] By having the ornament 20 protrude upward from the headrest 13, the ornament 20 can be made to stand out, and the user's biological condition can be more clearly notified to those around.

[0146] When something that was straight bends, it is easy to associate something that was once healthy with becoming exhausted, such as a healthy plant withering, so when the user becomes tired, bending the ornament 20 makes it easier for those around them to recognize that the user is tired. In particular, in this embodiment, the ornament 20 is made into cat ears, so when the straight cat ears bend, it is easy to associate that with a cat becoming exhausted, making it easier for those around them to recognize that the user is tired.

[0147] The user's biological condition is expressed by the deformation of the accessory 20 and the facial expression of the character on the screen, so that the user's biological condition can be more clearly communicated to those around the user.

[0148] When the vehicle C is about to collide, the movement of the ornament 20 can warn people around the vehicle C of the collision.

[0149] By using a simple structure such as the first link 21, the second link 22, the winch 23 and the wire 24 to bend and stretch the ornament, the ornament can be made compact and lightweight.

[0150] Second Embodiment Next, a second embodiment of the vehicle system will be described. Note that this embodiment is a slight modification of the structure of the ornament 20 and the processing of the control unit 50 in the first embodiment, and therefore, components and processing that are substantially the same as those in the first embodiment will be assigned the same reference numerals and descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0151] Although not shown, the decorative item 20 according to the second embodiment has lighting. The lighting may be, for example, a lighting device disposed inside the surface 26, or the surface 26 may be made of electronic paper and the surface 26 itself may function as the lighting. The lighting is capable of changing the color of light.

[0152] The control unit 50 has a function of turning on the illumination based on biological information acquired from at least one of the heart rate sensor 61 and the respiration sensor 62. In this embodiment, the control unit 50 estimates the fatigue level based on the heart rate information and respiration information, as in the first embodiment, and changes the color of the illumination light according to the fatigue level.

[0153] More specifically, the control unit 50 according to the second embodiment executes the process shown in Fig. 6. The process shown in Fig. 6 is the process shown in Fig. 4 with the addition of new steps S31 and S32.

[0154] If the control unit 50 determines in step S4 that the fatigue level is equal to or greater than the second threshold TH2 (Yes), it bends the left and right cat ears and changes the character's facial expression to a second fatigue state (S5, S6), and then emits red light from the lighting, causing the cat ears to glow red (S31). After step S31, the control unit 50 executes the process of step S7.

[0155] If the control unit 50 determines in step S4 that the fatigue level is not equal to or greater than the second threshold TH2 (No), it bends one of the cat ears and changes the character's facial expression to the first fatigue state (S11, S12), and then emits blue light from the lighting, causing the cat ears to glow blue (S32). After step S32, the control unit 50 executes the process of step S7.

[0156] According to the second embodiment, the user's fatigue level is expressed by illumination and a change in the shape of the decorative item 20, so that the user's fatigue level can be more easily notified to those around the user.

[0157] [Third Embodiment] Next, a third embodiment of the vehicle system will be described. Note that, since this embodiment is a slight modification of the processing of the control unit 50 according to the first embodiment, components and processing that are substantially the same as those in the first embodiment will be denoted by the same reference numerals and descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0158] The control unit 50 according to the third embodiment has the function of changing the number of movements of the ornament 20 per predetermined time period based on biological information acquired from at least one of the heart rate sensor 61 and the breathing sensor 62. In this embodiment, the control unit 50 estimates the level of fatigue based on heart rate information and breathing information, as in the first embodiment, and changes the number of movements of the ornament 20 per predetermined time period in accordance with the level of fatigue.

[0159] More specifically, the control unit 50 according to the third embodiment executes the process shown in Fig. 7. The process shown in Fig. 7 includes new steps S51 and S52 instead of steps S5 and S11 in the process shown in Fig. 4.

[0160] If the control unit 50 determines in step S4 that the fatigue level is equal to or greater than the second threshold value TH2 (Yes), it operates the winch 23 to bend and straighten the cat ears three times within a predetermined time (S51), and proceeds to the processing of step S6. If the control unit 50 determines in step S4 that the fatigue level is not equal to or greater than the second threshold value TH2 (No), it operates the winch 23 to bend and straighten the cat ears once within a predetermined time (S52), and proceeds to the processing of step S12.

[0161] Note that the cat ears moved in steps S51 and S52 may be either the left or right ear, or both. According to the third embodiment, by changing the number of movements of the ornament 20, the user's fatigue level can be expressed in multiple stages.

[0162] [Fourth embodiment] Next, a fourth embodiment of the vehicle system will be described. Note that this embodiment is a slight modification of the structure of the ornament 20 and the processing of the control unit 50 in the first embodiment, and therefore, components and processing that are substantially the same as those in the first embodiment will be assigned the same reference numerals and descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0163] 8, the decorative item 320 according to the fourth embodiment has a movable part 320A and a base part 320B. The movable part 320A is supported by the base part 320B so as to be rotatable about an axis extending in the vertical direction.

[0164] The movable part 320A has the first link 21, the second link 22, the winch 23, the wire 24, the pad 25, and the cover 26 similar to those in the first embodiment, and further has a touch sensor 321. The touch sensor 321 is a sensor that outputs a signal when the user touches it directly or indirectly. For example, a pressure sensor or a capacitance sensor can be used as the touch sensor 321.

[0165] The base 320B has a motor 322, a pad 323, and a cover 324. The motor 322 is a motor for rotating the movable part 320A. The output shaft of the motor 322 is fixed to the winch 23.

[0166] The pad 323 is made of urethane foam or the like and covers the motor 322. The cover 324 is made of synthetic leather, fabric or the like and covers the pad 323. The base portion 320B is fitted into the recess 13A of the headrest 13.

[0167] The control unit 50 has a function of moving the ornament 320 based on a signal from the touch sensor 321. In this embodiment, the control unit 50 operates the motor 322 based on the signal from the touch sensor 321, thereby rotating the movable part 320A.

[0168] More specifically, the control unit 50 executes the process shown in Fig. 9. The process shown in Fig. 9 is the process shown in Fig. 4 with the addition of new steps S71 and S72.

[0169] 9, the control unit 50 first determines whether or not the user has touched the cat ears (S71) based on a signal from the touch sensor 321. If it is determined in step S71 that the user has not touched the cat ears (No), the control unit 50 proceeds to the process of step S1.

[0170] If it is determined in step S71 that the user has touched the cat ears (Yes), the control unit 50 activates the motor 322 to rotate the movable part 320A of the cat ears (S72). After step S72, the control unit 50 proceeds to the process of step S7.

[0171] According to the fourth embodiment, when the user touches the ornament 320, the movable part 320A of the ornament 320 moves, which enhances the entertainment value.

[0172] [Fifth Embodiment] Next, a fifth embodiment of the vehicle system will be described. Note that this embodiment is a slight modification of the structure of the ornament 320 according to the fourth embodiment, and therefore, components that are substantially the same as those in the fourth embodiment will be assigned the same reference numerals and descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0173] 10, the decorative item 420 according to the fifth embodiment has a movable part 320A similar to that of the fourth embodiment, but also has a base part 420B different from that of the fourth embodiment. The base part 420B is provided with an electric cylinder 422 instead of the motor 322 of the base part 320B of the fourth embodiment. The electric cylinder 422 moves the movable part 320A up and down.

[0174] The control unit 50 according to the fifth embodiment moves the movable part 320A up and down by operating the electric cylinder 422 based on a signal from the touch sensor 321. Specifically, the process of step S72 in the process shown in Fig. 9 can be replaced with a process of moving the cat ear movable part 320A up and down.

[0175] The structures of the fourth and fifth embodiments may be combined to form a structure in which the movable part of the ornament rotates and moves up and down.

[0176] The interior member to which the decorative item is attached is not limited to the headrest of the driver's seat. For example, as shown in Fig. 11, the interior member may be a member (seat cushion, seat back, headrest) constituting at least one of the first-row seat R1, the second-row seat R2, or the third-row seat R3. Although not shown, if the seat has an armrest or an ottoman, the interior member may be the armrest or the ottoman.

[0177] Other examples of interior components include a center console box 71 located between the driver's seat and the passenger seat, a dashboard 72, inner panels 73 of doors and vehicle side walls, a roof 74, a lid 75 for opening and closing a sunroof, etc. The decorative item 20 may be provided, for example, on the upper part of the rear surface of the seat back, the left and right bulging portions that bulge out from the seat surface of the seat cushion, the sides of the headrest, the top surface of the dashboard 72 or above the meter hood, the center console box 71, etc.

[0178] The ornaments are not limited to cat ears. Other examples of ornaments include models of body parts (limbs, whiskers, tails) of animals such as dogs and cats, stuffed toys that resemble the entire body of a person or animal, models of anthropomorphized characters such as objects and living things, models of plants such as flowers and trees, and models of buildings such as castles.

[0179] Changing the shape of an ornamental item is not limited to changing it between a straight state and a bent state, and any change that changes the external shape of the ornamental item is acceptable. For example, if the ornamental item is made up of air cells that can expand and contract with air, the shape of the ornamental item may be changed between a normal state and a state that is more deflated than the normal state. In this case, the electric device that changes the shape of the ornamental item may be a pump that switches between supplying and discharging air to the ornamental item.

[0180] The ornament may also have a plurality of stacked air cells. In this case, by selecting the air cells to inflate, the shape of the ornament can be changed in multiple stages.

[0181] The decorative item may also have a shape memory alloy. In this case, a heater is provided on or around the decorative item. The shape memory alloy may be configured, for example, to assume a first straight shape when the temperature of the shape memory alloy is below a predetermined temperature, and assume a second bent shape when the temperature is above the predetermined temperature. The control unit may change the shape of the shape memory alloy by controlling the heater.

[0182] The sensor for acquiring biometric information can be a sensor that detects at least one of brain waves, facial expression, gaze, breathing, heart rate, pulse, voice, etc. The sensor for detecting facial expression and gaze can be a camera, etc. The camera can be placed in a position where it can capture the face of the user seated in the seat.

[0183] The condition for transforming the accessory is not limited to the level of fatigue, and may be any biometric information or information estimated from the biometric information. For example, the control unit may estimate the user's physical condition based on pulse rate, etc., and transform the accessory if it determines that the user's physical condition is poor.

[0184] The control unit may estimate the user's emotions based on heart rate, breathing, facial expressions, pulse waves, etc., and may change the color of the accessory according to the emotions. Furthermore, if the accessory has lighting, the control unit may change the color of the accessory according to the emotions. For example, if the control unit determines that the user's emotions are anger, the control unit may change the color of the accessory to red, and if the control unit determines that the user's emotions are calm, the control unit may change the color of the accessory to blue. In this case, the image displayed on the screen indicating the user's biological state may be an image of a character's facial expression or an image of text that indicates the user's emotions.

[0185] Furthermore, when the control unit determines that there is an abnormality in the physical condition based on the pulse wave, heart rate, etc., it may notify the abnormality by flashing the light, or may cause the ornament to operate faster than usual. In addition, at this time, the control unit may output a display, sound, or light to notify the abnormality detection.

[0186] In addition, the control unit may perform a first process (e.g., change the lighting color) when the fatigue level is equal to or greater than a first threshold and equal to or less than a second threshold that is greater than the first threshold, and may perform a second process (operate the ornament) when the fatigue level is equal to or greater than the second threshold.

[0187] Furthermore, when the level of fatigue is less than the first threshold, that is, when the user is in good health, the control unit may move the cat ears up and down or rotate them.

[0188] The display of the fatigue level by the display unit is not limited to the facial expression of the character, but may also be a numerical value or gauge indicating the fatigue level, the color or movement of the character, or the color or movement of an image imitating an accessory. For example, the control unit may display on the screen an image of the user's avatar character with cat ears (an image imitating an accessory) on the face of the character, and display the color of the cat ears in a color corresponding to the color of the lighting on the accessory. In other words, the display unit may display the state of the lighting color of the accessory.

[0189] The control unit may display a cat as a character on the screen. Note that the character may be an animal other than a cat, or may be an anthropomorphized character of an object or living thing.

[0190] If the character is a cat, the control unit may display an image of the cat hopping on the screen and move the movable part of the accessory up and down when the user's fatigue level is less than a first threshold. Alternatively, the control unit may display an image of the cat sleeping on the screen and rotate the movable part of the accessory by a predetermined angle when the user's fatigue level is equal to or greater than the first threshold.

[0191] The control unit may change the expression of the cat on the screen to a smiling face and move the cat ears, which are decorative accessories, up and down for a predetermined time when the user's emotion is a happy emotion. The control unit may change the expression of the cat on the screen to a depressed face and bend the cat ears, which are decorative accessories, when the user's emotion is a sad emotion.

[0192] The control unit may determine whether the user is surprised based on the heart rate, etc. In this case, for example, if the control unit determines that the user is not surprised, the cat ears serving as accessories are slightly bent. Also, if the control unit determines that the user is surprised, the cat ears serving as accessories are made to stand up more than when the user is not surprised.

[0193] Furthermore, when the user's fatigue level is less than a first threshold, the control unit may change the illumination color of the ornament to a warm color and rotate and stop the movable part of the ornament at regular time intervals. Furthermore, when the user's fatigue level is equal to or greater than the first threshold, the control unit may rotate the movable part of the ornament at a slower speed than when the user's fatigue level is determined to be less than the first threshold.

[0194] The control unit may control the display unit and the accessory based on the audio information acquired as biometric information. For example, if the control unit determines based on the audio information that the conversation is lively, it may display a character with a smiling expression on the screen and rotate a movable part of the accessory.

[0195] The display unit may be a projection device that projects an image, or a rearview mirror that can display an image.

[0196] The movement of the ornament based on the signal from the touch sensor is not limited to rotation or up and down movement, but may also be bending and straightening, or movement in a direction other than up and down.

[0197] The decorative item may have a display unit, a communication unit, a speaker, etc. The decorative item may be operable by an operation input unit of a seat, a door, a navigation system, etc.

[0198] The control unit may notify the user of the biological information by flashing the light of the accessory. For example, the control unit may decrease the interval between flashes of the light as the user's fatigue level increases (or as the user's physical condition worsens).

[0199] The control unit may notify the user of biological information by varying the intensity of the light from the illumination. For example, the control unit may increase the intensity of the light from the illumination as the user's fatigue level increases (or as the user's physical condition worsens).

[0200] The collision warning may be made by sound or lighting. For example, when the control unit predicts a collision, the control unit may change the lighting color to red and make a sound and display a message on the screen indicating that a collision has been predicted. Furthermore, when the control unit predicts a collision, the control unit may make an ornament illuminated in red and rotate. In this case, the movement of the ornament is more noticeable, making it easier for the user to notice.

[0201] When the decorative element protrudes upward from the headrest, the control unit may limit the up and down movement of the movable part of the decorative element depending on the angle of the seat back. For example, when the reclining angle, which is the angle between the seat cushion surface and the seat back surface, is equal to or less than a predetermined angle, i.e., when the seat back is upright, the control unit does not limit the up and down movement of the movable part of the decorative element. When the reclining angle is greater than the predetermined angle, i.e., when the seat back is reclined, the control unit does not move the movable part of the decorative element up and down even if the condition for moving the movable part up and down is met. This prevents the movable part of the decorative element from hitting a person sitting in the rear seat due to its up and down movement. Note that when the reclining angle is greater than the predetermined angle, the control unit may cause the facial expression of the character on the screen to look anxious.

[0202] The vehicle is not limited to an automobile, but may be other vehicles such as a motorcycle or a train.

[0203] The following is an example of a method for manufacturing a vehicle system: A method for manufacturing a vehicle system comprising an interior member to be placed inside a vehicle, an ornament attached to the interior member, an electric device that changes the shape of the ornament, a sensor that acquires a user's biometric information, and a control unit, wherein the control unit operates the electric device and changes the shape of the ornament based on the biometric information acquired from the sensor, the method comprising the steps of attaching the ornament to the interior member, attaching the sensor in a position where the user's biometric information can be detected, and connecting the electric device and the sensor to the control unit.

[0204] Sixth Embodiment A sixth embodiment of a vehicle system will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. As shown in Fig. 12, a vehicle system 101 includes a seat 110, a monitor M1 as an example of a display unit, a camera CM1 as an example of a collision detection unit, and a control unit CT1. The seat 110, the monitor M1, and the camera CM1 are arranged in a vehicle, specifically, in positions facing the passenger compartment. In this embodiment, the seat 110 is a driver's seat or a passenger seat.

[0205] The seat 110 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 constitute a seat body having a seating surface F1. The seating surface F1 is a surface that comes into contact with and supports a user seated in the seat 110.

[0206] The seat cushion 111, seat back 112, and headrest 113 each have a metal frame that forms the framework, a pad that covers the frame, and a skin that covers the pad. The pad is made of urethane foam or the like. The skin is made of synthetic leather, fabric, or the like.

[0207] The seat cushion 111 has a base portion 111A located in the left-right center and protruding portions 111B located on both the left and right outer sides of the base portion 111A. The base portion 111A has a seating surface F1 that contacts and supports the user's buttocks and thighs from below. The protruding portions 111B protrude from the seating surface F1 of the base portion 111A toward the user to support the sides of the user's thighs and buttocks.

[0208] Similarly, the seat back 112 has a base portion 112A located in the center of the seat back and extension portions 112B located on both the left and right sides of the base portion 112A. The base portion 112A has a seating surface F1 that contacts the user's back and supports the back from behind. The extension portions 112B extend outward from the seating surface F1 of the base portion 112A toward the user to support the sides of the user's upper body.

[0209] The seat 110 further includes an electric reclining mechanism 121, a plurality of vibration devices 123, an electric slide mechanism 130, and a plurality of speakers 150. The electric reclining mechanism 121 is a mechanism that tilts the seat back 112. The electric reclining mechanism 121 includes a motor that is activated by energization.

[0210] The vibration device 123 is an electric device that vibrates when energized, thereby reciprocating only a portion of the surface of the seat 110. Four vibration devices 123 are provided on the base portion 111A of the seat cushion 111, and one on each of the left and right protrusion portions 111B. The four vibration devices 123 provided on the base portion 111A are arranged such that a pair of vibration devices 123 lined up on the left and right are lined up in the front and back.

[0211] Four vibration devices 123 are provided on the base portion 112A of the seat back 112, and one on each of the left and right protrusion portions 112B. The four vibration devices 123 provided on the base portion 112A are arranged so that a pair of vibration devices 123 lined up on the left and right are lined up above and below. Each vibration device 123 is embedded in a pad, for example.

[0212] The electric slide mechanism 130 is a mechanism for sliding the seat 110 in the front-rear direction. The seat 110 is supported by a slide rail (not shown) so as to be movable in the front-rear direction. The electric slide mechanism 130 includes a motor that is activated by energization.

[0213] The speakers 150 are devices that generate sound when energized. One speaker 150 is provided on each of the left and right sides of the upper part of the seat back 112. One speaker 150 is provided on each of the left and right sides of the headrest 113. The speakers 150 are embedded in, for example, a pad.

[0214] The seat 110 further includes a reclining switch 161 , a slide switch 162 , and a mode changeover switch 163 .

[0215] The reclining switch 161 is an operating unit for operating the electric reclining mechanism 121. 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 CT1 for tilting the seat back 112 forward. When tilted rearward, the reclining switch 161 outputs a rearward tilt command to the control unit CT1 for tilting the seat back 112 rearward.

[0216] The slide switch 162 is an operating unit for operating the electric slide mechanism 130. 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 CT1 to move the seat 110 forward. When the slide switch 162 is slid rearward, it outputs a backward movement command to the control unit CT1 to move the seat 110 rearward.

[0217] The mode changeover switch 163 is a switch for switching the mode of the control unit CT1 between a first mode and a second mode. Here, the first mode is a mode in which the device interlocking process described below can be executed. Furthermore, the second mode is a mode in which the device interlocking process is not 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. In this embodiment, when the mode changeover switch 163 is in the OFF state, the mode is the second mode, and when the mode changeover switch 163 is in the ON state, the mode is the first mode.

[0218] The monitor M1 has a screen M11 (see FIG. 14) that displays an image. The image displayed on the monitor M1 can be changed by the control unit CT1. The monitor M1 can be placed on the dashboard, for example, below the rearview mirror.

[0219] The camera CM1 is a camera that captures images of the area in front of the vehicle. The camera CM1 is installed, for example, on the ceiling of the vehicle. Image information captured by the camera CM1 is output to the control unit CT1.

[0220] The control unit CT1 is configured to include, for example, a CPU, a RAM, a ROM, an input / output circuit, etc. The control unit CT1 may be provided in the seat 110, or may be provided in a member other than the seat 110.

[0221] The control unit CT1 is connected to the monitor M1, various switches (161 to 163), the electric reclining mechanism 121, each vibration device 123, the electric slide mechanism 130, and each speaker 150. The control unit CT1 can individually operate each vibration device 123 and each speaker 150.

[0222] The control unit CT1 has a function of assisting the driver in driving by accelerating or decelerating the vehicle based on the surrounding environment of the vehicle or by performing an assist process of changing the steering angle. Specifically, for example, when the control unit CT1 determines that the road is curved based on information from the camera CM1, it controls the brake device to decelerate the vehicle before the vehicle approaches the curve.

[0223] When the distance between the host vehicle and the vehicle ahead becomes greater than a set distance based on the information from the camera CM1, the control unit CT1 controls the engine to accelerate the vehicle. Based on the information from the camera CM1, the control unit CT1 controls the steering mechanism to steer the vehicle left or right so that the host vehicle does not deviate from the lane.

[0224] When executing the assist process, the control unit CT1 executes a device linkage process that activates the vibration device 123 in accordance with the movement of the vehicle operated by the assist process. Specifically, the control unit CT1 executes the device linkage process when the magnitude of the acceleration or steering angle changed by the assist process exceeds a predetermined threshold. More specifically, the control unit CT1 executes the device linkage process when the magnitude of the acceleration changed by the assist process exceeds an acceleration threshold, or when the magnitude of the steering angle changed by the assist process exceeds a steering angle threshold.

[0225] 13A, the control unit CT1 selects a vibration device 123 to be activated from among a plurality of vibration devices 123 depending on whether the driving operation to be assisted by the assist process is acceleration, deceleration, right turn, or left turn. Specifically, when the driving operation to be assisted by the assist process is acceleration or deceleration, the control unit CT1 selects and activates the vibration device 123 located at the left-right center of the seat cushion 111, specifically, the base unit 111A. Note that the vibration device 123 to be activated may be at least one of the four vibration devices 123 located on the base unit 111A.

[0226] When the driving operation to be assisted by the assist processing is a right turn, the control unit CT1 selects and activates the vibration devices 123 located on the right-side overhanging portions 111B and 112B. Note that the vibration device to be activated may be at least one of the two vibration devices 123 located on the right-side overhanging portions 111B and 112B.

[0227] When the driving operation to be assisted by the assist processing is a left turn, the control unit CT1 selects and activates the vibration devices 123 located on the left-side overhanging portions 111B and 112B. Note that the vibration device to be activated may be at least one of the two vibration devices 123 located on the left-side overhanging portions 111B and 112B.

[0228] The control unit CT1 changes the operation pattern of the vibration device based on the acceleration or steering angle changed by the assist process. Specifically, when the assist process changes the acceleration to the positive side, that is, when accelerating the vehicle, the control unit CT1 intermittently operates the vibration device 123 in the operation pattern shown in Fig. 13(b). In this embodiment, the operation pattern is set so that the operation time of the intermittently operating vibration device gradually increases, but each operation time may be constant or may be set so that the operation time gradually decreases.

[0229] When the assist process is to change the acceleration to the negative side, that is, when the vehicle is to be decelerated, the control unit CT1 continuously operates the vibration device 123 in the operation pattern shown in Fig. 13(c). Also, when the assist process is to change the steering angle, for example, to the positive side or the negative side, to turn the vehicle to the right or left, the control unit CT1 continuously operates the vibration device 123 in the operation pattern shown in Fig. 13(c). Note that the positive side and negative side of the steering angle (0 when the vehicle is traveling straight) and the right side and left side of the steering can be set arbitrarily.

[0230] The control unit CT1 has a function of changing the vibration intensity of the vibration device 123 based on the magnitude of the acceleration changed by the assist process. In this embodiment, the greater the magnitude of the acceleration changed by the assist process, the greater the vibration intensity of the vibration device 123. Note that, as a vibration device capable of changing the vibration intensity, for example, a type of vibration device that changes the frequency and amplitude of vibration to change the vibration intensity can be used.

[0231] The control unit CT1 has a function of outputting sound from one of the left and right speakers 150 based on the steering angle changed by the assist processing. In this embodiment, as shown in Fig. 13(a) , when the steering angle is changed to, for example, the plus side by the assist processing to turn the vehicle right, the control unit CT1 outputs sound from the right speaker 150. The speaker 150 that outputs sound may be at least one of the two right speakers 150 located in the seat back 112 and the headrest 113.

[0232] Furthermore, when the assist process is performed to change the steering angle, for example, to the negative side, to turn the vehicle left, the control unit CT1 outputs sound from the left speaker 150. The speaker 150 that outputs sound may be at least one of the two left speakers 150 located in the seat back 112 and the headrest 113.

[0233] 14, the control unit CT1 has a function of displaying an image of a sheet and an image of a cat as an example of a character on a screen M11 of the monitor M1. In the device linking process, the control unit CT1 moves the cat on the screen M11 in accordance with the operation of the vibration device 123.

[0234] Specifically, when accelerating the vehicle through the assist process, the control unit CT1 displays a video of a cat running on the seat and an image of text indicating acceleration, such as "Accelerating meow," on the screen M11, as shown in Fig. 14. In this case, the control unit CT1 outputs a sound, such as "Accelerating meow," from the speakers 150 on both the left and right sides, for example.

[0235] When the vehicle is decelerated by the assist process, the control unit CT1 displays on the screen M11 a video of a cat bracing itself with its front paws to stop running, and an image of text indicating deceleration, such as "Slow down meow," as shown in Fig. 15. In this case, the control unit CT1 outputs a sound, such as "Slow down meow," from the speakers 150 on both the left and right sides, for example.

[0236] When the assist process is performed to turn the vehicle right, the control unit CT1 displays on the screen M11 a video of a cat walking on the seat facing right and an image of text indicating a turn, such as "Turn right, meow," as shown in Fig. 16. In this case, the control unit CT1 outputs, for example, a sound such as "Turn right, meow" from the right speaker 150.

[0237] When the vehicle is turned left by the assist process, the screen display is omitted from the illustration because it simply changes the cat's orientation to the left and changes the character image from "right" to "left." In this case, the control unit CT1 outputs a voice message such as "Turn left, meow" from the left speaker 150.

[0238] The control unit CT1 also has a function of predicting a vehicle collision based on information from the camera CM1 shown in Fig. 12. The control unit CT1 has a function of not executing the device-linked processing when a vehicle collision is predicted. For example, when the control unit CT1 predicts a vehicle collision in the first mode, the control unit CT1 switches the mode to the second mode and does not execute the device-linked processing.

[0239] Next, the operation of the control unit CT1 will be described in detail. The control unit CT1 repeatedly executes the process shown in Fig. 17. In the process of Fig. 17, the control unit CT1 first determines whether the mode changeover switch 163 is ON (S101). If it is determined in step S101 that the mode changeover switch 163 is not ON (No), the control unit CT1 sets the mode to the second mode (S112) and ends this process.

[0240] If it is determined in step S101 that the mode changeover switch 163 is ON (Yes), the control unit CT1 determines whether or not there is a possibility of a vehicle collision based on information from the camera CM1 (S102). If it is determined in step S102 that there is a possibility of a vehicle collision (Yes), the control unit CT1 switches the mode to the second mode (S112) and ends this process.

[0241] If it is determined in step S102 that there is no possibility of a vehicle collision (No), the control unit CT1 sets the mode to the first mode (S103). After step S103, the control unit CT1 acquires information from the camera CM1 (S104).

[0242] After step S104, the control unit CT1 determines whether or not assist processing is necessary based on information from the camera CM1 (S105). If it is determined in step S105 that assist processing is not necessary (No), the control unit CT1 ends this processing.

[0243] If it is determined in step S105 that the assist process is necessary (Yes), the control unit CT1 determines whether the magnitude of the acceleration to be changed by the assist process is greater than the acceleration threshold value, or whether the magnitude of the steering angle to be changed by the assist process is greater than the steering angle threshold value (S106).If it is determined in step S106 that the magnitude of the acceleration is equal to or less than the acceleration threshold value and the magnitude of the steering angle is equal to or less than the steering angle threshold value (No), the control unit CT1 executes the assist process (S111) without executing the device linkage process (S107 to S110), and ends this process.

[0244] If it is determined in step S106 that the magnitude of the acceleration is greater than the acceleration threshold value or the magnitude of the steering angle is greater than the steering angle threshold value (Yes), the control unit CT1 determines whether the assist target of the assist process is acceleration or deceleration (S107). If it is determined in step S107 that the assist target is acceleration or deceleration (Yes), the control unit CT1 sets the vibration strength of the vibration device 123 to a greater value as the magnitude of the acceleration changed in the assist process increases (S108).

[0245] After step S108, or if step S107 returns No, the control unit CT1 activates the vibration device 123 and the speaker 150 corresponding to the assistance target of the assist process (S109). After step S109, the control unit CT1 displays an image corresponding to the assistance target of the assist process on the screen M11 (S110). After step S110, the control unit CT1 executes the assist process (S111) and ends this process.

[0246] Next, a specific example of the operation of the control unit CT1 will be described. When the control unit CT1 in the first mode accelerates the vehicle through the assist process, the control unit CT1 intermittently activates the vibration device 123 at the center of the left and right of the seat cushion 111, as shown in Figures 13(a) and 13(b), and displays the video shown in Figure 14 on the screen M11. As a result, the seating surface F1 of the seat cushion 111 vibrates slightly in time with the running motion of the cat on the screen M11, so the user can feel the running motion of the cat through the seat 110 and understand that the vehicle is about to accelerate.

[0247] Furthermore, when the control unit CT1 in the first mode decelerates the vehicle by the assist process, the control unit CT1 continuously vibrates the vibration device 123 at the center of the left and right of the seat cushion 111, as shown in Figures 13(a) and 13(c), and displays the video shown in Figure 15 on the screen M11. As a result, the seating surface F1 of the seat cushion 111 continuously vibrates in accordance with the action of the cat bracing its front paws (action of using its front paws as a brake to stop) on the screen M11, so the user can virtually experience the force that the cat is receiving from the ground (the upper surface of the seat) through its front paws, and can understand that the vehicle is about to decelerate.

[0248] Furthermore, when the control unit CT1 in the first mode causes the vehicle to turn right by the assist process, the control unit CT1 vibrates the vibration devices 123 of the right-side protrusions 111B and 112B, outputs sound from the right-side speaker 150, and displays the video shown in Fig. 16 on the screen M11, as shown in Fig. 13(a). As a result, the right-side protrusions 111B and 112B vibrate and sound is output from the right-side speaker 150 in accordance with the movement of the cat walking to the right on the screen M11, so the user can feel the movement of the cat walking to the right through the seat 110 and understand that the vehicle is about to turn right.

[0249] As described above, according to this embodiment, the following effects can be obtained: Since the vibration device 123 is operated in accordance with the content of the assist process, the detailed content of the assist process can be communicated to the user.

[0250] If the magnitude of the acceleration or steering angle changed by the assist process is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold, the device linkage process is not executed, thereby reducing confusion and improving comfort.

[0251] Since the operation pattern of the vibration device 123 is changed based on the acceleration or steering angle changed by the assist process, the operation pattern of the vibration device 123 can convey the details of the assist process to the user.

[0252] The position of the vibration device 123 that is activated varies depending on the driving operation that is assisted by the assist process, so the user can understand the content of the assist process in detail based on the position of the vibration device 123 that is activated.

[0253] The greater the magnitude of acceleration changed by the assist process, the greater the strength of vibration, so the user can intuitively understand the magnitude of acceleration from the strength of vibration from the seating surface F1.

[0254] In the device linkage processing, the cat on the screen M11 is moved in accordance with the operation of the vibration device 123, so the user can feel that the cat is performing the assist processing through the operation of the vibration device 123, and can feel as if the vehicle and the cat character are one.

[0255] Since sound is output from one of the left and right speakers 150 based on the steering angle changed by the assist process, the user can auditorily understand that the vehicle is turning due to the assist process.

[0256] If there is a possibility of a vehicle collision, the device linking process is not executed, thereby improving safety.

[0257] [Seventh embodiment] Next, a seventh embodiment will be described in detail with reference to the drawings as appropriate. Note that since this embodiment is a partial modification of the structure of the vehicle system according to the sixth embodiment, the same components as those in the sixth embodiment will be denoted by the same reference numerals and descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0258] A vehicle system 401 according to the seventh embodiment has a seat 410 that is slightly different in structure from that of the sixth embodiment. The seat 410 has air cells 430A, 430B, and 430C as electrically driven devices instead of the vibration device 123 of the sixth embodiment.

[0259] Air cell 430A includes an inflatable / contractable bag 431, an air pump (not shown) and a tube that allow air to flow into bag 431. The air pump has the function of sending air into bag 431 and sucking air out of bag 431, and is activated by electrical current. The tube connects bag 431 and the air pump.

[0260] The bag 431 is embedded in the pad. The air pump is fixed to the frame of the seat 110, for example.

[0261] The bag 431 of the air cell 430A is disposed in the lower part of the seat back 112, more specifically in a position corresponding to the lower back of a user seated in the seat 110. The air cells 430B and 430C have the same structure as the air cell 430A, but the bags 431 of the air cells 430B and 430C are smaller than the bag 431 of the air cell 430A.

[0262] The bags 431 of the air cells 430B and 430C are arranged side by side at a position above the air cell 430A, more specifically at a position corresponding to the back of the user seated on the seat 110. The air cells 430A to 430C are capable of expanding or contracting from a reference size.

[0263] 19, the control unit CT1 selects an air cell to be activated from among a plurality of air cells depending on whether the driving operation to be assisted by the assist processing is acceleration, deceleration, right turn, or left turn. Specifically, when the driving operation to be assisted by the assist processing is acceleration, the control unit CT1 inflates the air cell 430A located under the seat back 112 so that it is larger than the reference size.

[0264] When the driving operation to be assisted by the assist processing is deceleration, the control unit CT1 contracts the air cell 430A located under the seat back 112 so that it becomes smaller than the reference size. When the driving operation to be assisted by the assist processing is a right turn, the control unit CT1 inflates the air cell 430B located at the upper right of the seat back 112 so that it becomes larger than the reference size. When the driving operation to be assisted by the assist processing is a left turn, the control unit CT1 inflates the air cell 430C located at the upper left of the seat back 112 so that it becomes larger than the reference size.

[0265] That is, the control unit CT1 inflates one of the left and right air cells based on the steering angle changed by the assist process.

[0266] The control unit CT1 executes the process of Fig. 20. The process of Fig. 20 includes steps S101 to S106 and S110 to S113 in the process of Fig. 17, as well as a new step S131. Note that in the seventh embodiment, the control unit CT1 controls the speaker 150 in the same manner as in the sixth embodiment.

[0267] If the control unit CT1 determines in step S106 that the magnitude of the acceleration is greater than the acceleration threshold value or the magnitude of the steering angle is greater than the steering angle threshold value (Yes), it activates the air cell and speaker 150 corresponding to the support target of the assist process (S131). After step S131, the control unit CT1 displays an image corresponding to the support target of the assist process on the screen M11 (S110).

[0268] In the seventh embodiment, the image displayed when the vehicle is accelerating or decelerating is the same as that displayed in Fig. 14 or 15 as in the sixth embodiment, but the image displayed when the vehicle is turning is the image shown in Fig. 21(a). When the control unit CT1 causes the vehicle to turn right through the assist process, the control unit CT1 displays on the screen M11 an image of a cat trying to move along a curve, as shown in Fig. 21(a), and inflates the right air cell 430B, as shown in Fig. 21(b).

[0269] In this way, when the vehicle turns right, the right air cell 430B expands, allowing the user seated in the seat 110 to understand that the vehicle is turning right due to the pressure from the right part of the seat back 112.

[0270] The control unit CT1 may change the amount of air flowing from the air pump into the bag 431 based on the steering angle changed by the assist process. Specifically, the control unit CT1 may increase the amount of air flowing into the bag 431 as the steering angle changed by the assist process increases. This allows the user to understand the magnitude of the changed steering angle from the amount of inflation of the air cell bag.

[0271] The seat may have both a vibration device and an air cell, and the control unit may activate at least one of the vibration device and the air cell in the device linking process.

[0272] When deceleration is performed by the assist process, the vibration device of the seat cushion may be activated first, and then the vibration device of the seat back may be activated.

[0273] When the assist process causes a right or left turn, the character is displayed changing direction, and multiple vibration devices arranged on the left and right sides of the seat back may vibrate in sequence from right to left or left to right, causing the vibrating position to move smoothly.

[0274] The vibration speed and vibration pattern may be changed according to the magnitude of the acceleration changed by the assist process.

[0275] When acceleration or deceleration is performed by the assist process, the vibration device may be activated, and when turning right or left, the air cell may be activated.

[0276] The driving operations assisted by the assist process and the electric devices to be activated may correspond as follows: Acceleration: Cushion vibration device Deceleration: Seatback vibration device Turning: Vibration device on either the left or right protrusion In this case, the seatback protrusion or the seat cushion protrusion may be vibrated in accordance with acceleration or deceleration.

[0277] The driving operations assisted by the assist process may correspond to the electric devices to be activated as follows: Acceleration: The vibration device located at the top of the seatback vibrates at a first intensity, and the vibration device located at the bottom of the seatback vibrates at a second intensity that is lower than the first intensity. Deceleration: The vibration device located at the top of the seatback vibrates at a second intensity, and the vibration device located at the bottom of the seatback vibrates at the first intensity. Turning: Either of the vibration devices located on the left or right of the seatback vibrates at a first intensity. Note that if the vibration devices are aligned left and right and are located at the top of the seatback, for example, during acceleration, either the vibration device on the left or right of the top of the seatback may vibrate at a first intensity. Furthermore, when the vehicle is accelerating and turning right, the vibration device on the top right of the seatback may vibrate at a first intensity (high), then the vibration device on the top left of the seatback may vibrate at a second intensity (medium), and the vibration device on the bottom of the seatback may vibrate at a third intensity (low) that is lower than the second intensity.

[0278] Furthermore, when turning the vehicle right, of the two vibration devices arranged side by side, the left vibration device may be vibrated at the second strength (small) and then the right vibration device may be vibrated at the first strength (large), repeatedly. Conversely, when turning the vehicle left, the right vibration device may be vibrated at the second strength (small) and then the left vibration device may be vibrated at the first strength (large).

[0279] When accelerating the vehicle, the vibration device on the front end of the seat cushion may vibrate at a second strength (small) and the vibration device on the rear end of the seat cushion may vibrate at a first strength (large). Conversely, when decelerating the vehicle, the vibration device on the front end of the seat cushion may vibrate at a first strength (large) and the vibration device on the rear end of the seat cushion may vibrate at a second strength (small).

[0280] The character display may be an action that expresses turning and acceleration / deceleration at the same time, or may be a display of the larger change in acceleration or steering angle. For example, if the change in steering angle is 5 degrees and the change in acceleration is 7 km / h, ２ In this case, the character display corresponding to the acceleration / deceleration is prioritized, and the change in steering angle is 7 degrees and the change in acceleration is 5 km / h. ２ In this case, priority may be given to displaying a character that corresponds to the turning motion.

[0281] The air cells may be provided in the base portion of the seat cushion, the left and right protruding portions, the left and right protruding portions of the seat back, or the headrest. The vibration device may be provided in the headrest.

[0282] 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.

[0283] 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.

[0284] The character may be an animal other than a cat, a living thing such as a plant, or an anthropomorphized object or living thing. The character may be set in advance, and may be, for example, an image of a deformed passenger.

[0285] The vehicle is not limited to an automobile, but may be other vehicles such as a motorcycle or a train.

[0286] The collision detection unit may be an inter-vehicle distance sensor that detects the distance between the vehicle and a vehicle ahead.

[0287] Examples of methods for manufacturing a vehicle system include the following: A vehicle system that assists a driver in driving by an assist process that accelerates or decelerates the vehicle or changes the steering angle based on the vehicle's surrounding environment, the vehicle system comprising: a seat on which a user sits; an electric device that moves a portion of the seating surface of the seat, the electric device including a vibration device and / or an air cell; and a control unit, wherein, when the control unit executes the assist process, the control unit executes a device linkage process that activates the electric device in accordance with the movement of the vehicle operated by the assist process, the method for manufacturing a vehicle system comprising the steps of attaching the electric device to the seat, attaching the seat and the control unit to the vehicle, and connecting the electric device to the control unit.

[0288] Eighth Embodiment An eighth embodiment of a vehicle system will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. As shown in Fig. 22, a vehicle system 201 includes a body frame CF, a suspension system SP as an example of an impact absorbing means, a monitor M2 as an example of a display unit, an operation unit SW, a seat 210 on which a user can sit, and a control unit CT2. The suspension system SP, the monitor M2, the seat 210, and the control unit CT2 are supported by the body frame CF.

[0289] The suspension system SP is a suspension that absorbs shocks from the road surface and is disposed between the road surface and the body frame CF. More specifically, the suspension system SP is disposed between the tire T and the body frame CF. The suspension system SP can change its shock absorption rate by adjusting air pressure, magnetic fluid, hydraulic pressure, etc. As a suspension system SP with adjustable shock absorption rate, for example, the suspension disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2000-280806 can be used. The shock absorption rate can be changed by adjusting the damping force of the suspension system SP.

[0290] The monitor M2 has a screen M21 (see FIG. 25) that displays an image. The image displayed on the monitor M2 can be changed by the control unit CT2. The monitor M2 can be placed on the dashboard, for example, below the rearview mirror.

[0291] 23, the operating unit SW is an operating unit that is operated by an occupant of the seat 210 and is used to change the impact absorption of the suspension system SP. The operating unit SW includes a first switch SW1, a second switch SW2, and a third switch SW3.

[0292] In the following description, the shock absorption of the suspension SP is also referred to as "suspension stiffness." The relationship between suspension stiffness and shock absorption is such that the greater the suspension stiffness, the smaller the shock absorption. Also, the relationship between damping force and suspension stiffness is such that the greater the damping force, the greater the suspension stiffness.

[0293] The first switch SW1 is a switch for setting the stiffness of the suspension to a first predetermined value or less, and may be, for example, a switch for switching the drive mode of the vehicle to a comfort mode that prioritizes ride comfort.

[0294] The second switch SW2 is a switch for setting the suspension stiffness to a value greater than a first predetermined value and equal to or less than a second predetermined value that is greater than the first predetermined value. The second switch SW2 may be, for example, a switch for switching the drive mode of the vehicle to a standard mode.

[0295] The third switch SW3 is a switch for increasing the stiffness of the suspension above a second predetermined value. The third switch SW3 can be, for example, a switch for switching the drive mode of the vehicle to a sports mode.

[0296] The change in suspension hardness may be performed by the control unit CT2 or by a control unit other than the control unit CT2. In this embodiment, a control unit other than the control unit CT2 changes the suspension hardness based on information from the operation unit SW.

[0297] The seat 210 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 constitute a seat body 210A having a seating surface F2 that supports a seated occupant.

[0298] The seat cushion 211 has a base portion 211A located in the left-right center and protruding portions 211B located on both the left and right outer sides of the base portion 211A. The base portion 211A has a seating surface F2 that contacts and supports the buttocks and thighs of the seated occupant from below. The protruding portions 211B protrude from the seating surface F2 of the base portion 211A toward the seated occupant to support the sides of the thighs and buttocks of the seated occupant.

[0299] Similarly, the seat back 212 has a base portion 212A located in the left-right center and protruding portions 212B located on both the left and right sides of the base portion 212A. The base portion 212A has a seating surface F2 that contacts the back of the seated occupant to support the back from behind. The protruding portions 212B protrude from the seating surface F2 of the base portion 212A toward the seated occupant to support the sides of the upper body of the seated occupant.

[0300] The protruding portions 211B and 212B have inner surfaces F3 that support the seated occupant from the left and right outer sides. The seating surface F2 and the inner surfaces F3 form the surface of the seat 210 facing the seated occupant.

[0301] As shown in Figure 24, the seat cushion 211 includes a frame FL, a pad PD, and a cover SK. The frame FL is made of metal or the like and supports the pad PD. The pad PD is made of a cushioning material such as urethane foam. The cover SK is made of synthetic leather, fabric, or the like and covers the pad PD. Similarly, the seat back 212 and the headrest 213 also include a frame, a pad, and a cover.

[0302] The seat 210 further includes an air cell 222 (see also FIG. 23 ) as an example of an electric device, a vibration device 223, and a sensor 224. As shown in FIG. 23 , one air cell 222 (more specifically, a bag 222A, which will be described later) is provided in each of the four protrusions 211B, 212B. Since the structures around the air cell 222 in each of the protrusions 211B, 212B are substantially the same, the structure of the right protrusion 211B of the seat cushion 211 will be described below with reference to FIG. 24 as a representative example, and a description of the structures of the other protrusions 211B, 212B will be omitted.

[0303] As shown in Figures 24(a) and 24(b), the air cell 222 is an electrically powered device that moves only a portion of the inner surface F3 of the protruding portion 211B. The air cell 222 includes an inflatable / deflateable bag 222A, a pump, and a tube (not shown). The pump has the function of sending air into the bag 222A or sucking air out of the bag 222A, and is activated by electrical current. The tube connects the bag 222A to the pump.

[0304] The bag 222A is located between the pad PD and the frame FL. The bag 222A may be embedded in the pad PD. The pump is fixed to the frame FL of the seat 210, for example.

[0305] Bag 222A is deformable between a first shape shown in Fig. 24(a), a second shape shown in Fig. 24(b) that is more expanded than the first shape, and a third shape (not shown) that is more expanded than the second shape. When bag 222A is in the first shape, inner surface F3 is located at a first position shown in Fig. 24(a). When bag 222A is in the second shape, inner surface F3 is located at a second position shown in Fig. 24(b) that is closer to the seated occupant than the first position. When bag 222A is in the third shape, inner surface F3 is located at a third position (not shown) that is closer to the seated occupant than the second position.

[0306] The vibration device 223 is a device that vibrates when power is applied. Two vibration devices 223 are provided on the protruding portion 211B. Note that it is sufficient that at least one vibration device 223 is provided on the protruding portion 211B.

[0307] The two vibration devices 223 are arranged side by side with a gap in the left-right direction. In the following description, the vibration device 223 on the inner side in the left-right direction will also be referred to as the "first vibration device 223A," and the vibration device 223 on the outer side in the left-right direction will also be referred to as the "second vibration device 223B." Note that, contrary to the present embodiment, the vibration device 223 on the outer side in the left-right direction may be referred to as the first vibration device, and the vibration device 223 on the inner side in the left-right direction may be referred to as the second vibration device.

[0308] The distance from the first vibrating device 223A to the epidermis SK is approximately equal to the distance from the second vibrating device 223B to the epidermis SK. Each vibrating device 223 is located between the sensor 224 and the bag 222A. Each vibrating device 223 is embedded in, for example, the pad PD.

[0309] The sensor 224 is a sensor that detects whether the inner surface F3 is in contact with a seat occupant. In this embodiment, the sensor 224 is a pressure sensor. The sensor 224 is located between the cover SK and the pad PD.

[0310] 23, the control unit CT2 is configured to include, for example, a CPU, RAM, ROM, an input / output circuit, etc. The control unit CT2 may be provided in the seat 210, or may be provided in a member other than the seat 210.

[0311] The control unit CT2 is connected to the monitor M2, the operation unit SW, the air cells 222, the vibration devices 223, and the sensor 224 (see FIG. 24). The control unit CT2 can individually activate the plurality of air cells 222 and the plurality of vibration devices 223.

[0312] The control unit CT2 has a function of determining the stiffness of the suspension based on information from the operation unit SW, and based on the stiffness (shock absorption) of the suspension, actuating the air cell 222. Specifically, the control unit CT2 changes the size of the bag 222A of the air cell 222 based on the stiffness of the suspension.

[0313] Specifically, when the suspension stiffness is equal to or less than a first predetermined value, i.e., when the damping force is less than a predetermined value, the control unit CT2 positions the inner surface F3 of each of the four protrusions 211B, 212B at a first position by changing the bag 222A of each air cell 222 to a first shape. When the suspension stiffness is greater than the first predetermined value and equal to or less than a second predetermined value, i.e., when the damping force is equal to or greater than a predetermined value, the control unit CT2 positions the inner surface F3 at a second position by changing the bag 222A of each air cell 222 to a second shape. When the suspension stiffness is greater than the second predetermined value, the control unit CT2 positions the inner surface F3 at a third position by changing the bag 222A of each air cell 222 to a third shape.

[0314] The change in shape of the air cells 222 in accordance with the suspension hardness may be performed on at least one of the four air cells 222 arranged on the left and right sides of the seat cushion 211 and the left and right sides of the seat back 212. For example, the control unit CT2 may change the shape of only the left and right air cells 222 of the seat cushion 211 in accordance with the suspension hardness, or may change the shape of only the left and right air cells 222 of the seat back 212 in accordance with the suspension hardness.

[0315] The control unit CT2 has a function of activating the vibration device 223 when the air cell 222 causes the inner surface F3 to move in a direction toward the seated occupant. The control unit CT2 has a function of determining the size of the air cell 222 based on information acquired from the sensor 224 when the air cell 222 causes the inner surface F3 to move in a direction toward the seated occupant. The control unit CT2 has a function of activating the vibration device 223 when the pressure value acquired from the sensor 224 exceeds a threshold value.

[0316] 25, the control unit CT2 has a function of displaying images of the suspension, the cat character, and the seat on a screen M21 of the monitor M2. When the impact absorption rate is changed, the control unit CT2 displays an image of the cat changing the impact absorption rate on the screen M21.

[0317] For example, when the stiffness of the suspension is equal to or less than a first predetermined value, the control unit CT2 displays a video of a cat massaging the suspension and an image of text such as "Loosen meow." At this time, the control unit CT2 also displays a video of a cat pushing the protruding parts of the seat from the inside, left and right.

[0318] In addition, if the suspension hardness is greater than the first predetermined value and less than the second predetermined value, or if it is greater than the second predetermined value, a video of the cat performing a performance according to the suspension hardness and the condition of the seat can be displayed.

[0319] Next, the operation of the control unit CT2 will be described in detail. The control unit CT2 repeatedly executes the process shown in FIG.

[0320] 26, the control unit CT2 first determines whether the drive mode of the vehicle has been changed based on a signal from the operation unit SW, thereby determining whether the stiffness of the suspension has been changed (S201). If it is determined in step S201 that the stiffness has not been changed (No), the control unit CT2 ends this process.

[0321] If it is determined in step S201 that the stiffness has been changed (Yes), the control unit CT2 determines whether the first switch SW1 has been selected, thereby determining whether the suspension stiffness is equal to or less than a first predetermined value (S202). If it is determined in step S202 that the stiffness is equal to or less than the first predetermined value (Yes), the control unit CT2 displays an image corresponding to the suspension stiffness on the screen M21 (S203). Note that in step S203, the control unit CT2 also displays an image corresponding to the seat state that changes in the following steps S204 to S206 on the screen M21.

[0322] After step S203, the control unit CT2 contracts each air cell 222 (S204). After step S204, the control unit CT2 determines whether the pressure value P acquired from the sensor 224 is less than a first threshold value Pth1 (S205).

[0323] If it is determined in step S205 that P<Pth1 is not satisfied (No), the control unit CT2 returns to the process of step S204. If it is determined in step S205 that P<Pth1 is satisfied (Yes), the control unit CT2 stops the contraction of the air cell 222 (S206) and ends this process.

[0324] If it is determined in step S202 that the suspension stiffness is not equal to or less than the first predetermined value (No), the control unit CT2 determines whether the second switch SW2 is selected, thereby determining whether the suspension stiffness is equal to or less than the second predetermined value (S207). If it is determined in step S207 that the suspension stiffness is equal to or less than the second predetermined value (Yes), the control unit CT2 displays an image corresponding to the suspension stiffness on the screen M21 (S208). Note that in step S208, the control unit CT2 also displays an image corresponding to the seat state, which changes in the following steps S209 to S212, on the screen M21.

[0325] After step S208, the control unit CT2 inflates each air cell 222 (S209). After step S209, the control unit CT2 determines whether the pressure value P acquired from the sensor 224 is greater than a second threshold value Pth2 (S210). Here, the second threshold value Pth2 is greater than the first threshold value Pth1.

[0326] If it is determined in step S210 that P>Pth2 is not satisfied (No), the control unit CT2 returns to the process of step S209. If it is determined in step S210 that P>Pth2 is satisfied (Yes), the control unit CT2 stops the inflation of the air cell 222 (S211). After step S211, the control unit CT2 activates the first vibrating device 223A for a predetermined time (S212), and then ends this process.

[0327] If it is determined in step S207 that the suspension hardness is not equal to or less than the second predetermined value (No), the control unit CT2 displays an image corresponding to the suspension hardness on the screen M21 (S213). Note that in step S213, the control unit CT2 also displays an image corresponding to the state of the seat, which changes in the following steps S214 to S217, on the screen M21.

[0328] After step S213, the control unit CT2 inflates each air cell 222 (S214). After step S214, the control unit CT2 determines whether the pressure value P acquired from the sensor 224 is greater than a third threshold value Pth3 (S215). Here, the third threshold value Pth3 is greater than the second threshold value Pth2.

[0329] If it is determined in step S215 that P>Pth3 is not satisfied (No), the control unit CT2 returns to the process of step S214. If it is determined in step S215 that P>Pth3 is satisfied (Yes), the control unit CT2 stops the inflation of the air cell 222 (S216). After step S216, the control unit CT2 activates the first vibration device 223A and the second vibration device 223B for a predetermined time (S217), and then ends this process.

[0330] Next, a specific example of the operation of the control unit CT2 will be described. As shown in Fig. 23, when the vehicle's drive mode is in standard mode, if the occupant of the seat 210 presses the first switch SW1 to switch the drive mode from standard mode to comfort mode, the suspension hardness becomes equal to or less than a first predetermined value, and the air cells 222 of the four protrusions 211B, 212B contract. At this time, the image shown in Fig. 25 is displayed on the screen M21.

[0331] This allows the seat occupant to feel that the suspension has become softer due to the cat on screen M21, thereby enhancing the entertainment value. Also, the seat occupant can feel that the protruding portions 211B, 212B have become softer due to the contraction of each air cell 222, so the softness of the seat 210 also makes the seat occupant feel that the suspension has become softer.

[0332] Furthermore, when the drive mode of the vehicle is switched from comfort mode to standard mode, the air cells 222 of the four protrusions 211B, 212B expand and the first vibrating device 223A vibrates. As a result, in standard mode, where the suspension is stiffer than in comfort mode, the seat occupant can feel the holding power of the seat 210, and can feel that the suspension is of medium stiffness due to the vibration of only the first vibrating device 223A.

[0333] Furthermore, when the drive mode of the vehicle is switched from standard mode to sport mode, the air cells 222 of the four protrusions 211B, 212B further expand, and both the first vibration device 223A and the second vibration device 223B vibrate. As a result, in the sport mode, in which the suspension is stiffer than in standard mode, the seat occupant can feel the holding power of the seat 210 more strongly, and can feel the greater stiffness of the suspension due to the vibrations of the two vibration devices 223.

[0334] As described above, according to this embodiment, the following effects can be obtained: Since the air cells 222 are activated based on the impact absorption rate, the surface of the seat 210 facing the occupant can be shaped to suit the impact, thereby obtaining a holding performance suited to the impact.

[0335] When the suspension is hard (impact absorption is low), increasing the size of the air cell 222 makes the seat 210 harder, making it easier for impacts from the road surface to be transmitted to the occupant, allowing the occupant to understand the state of the suspension.

[0336] When the suspension is stiff, the size of the air cell 222 is increased, so that the inner surfaces F3 of the left and right protrusions 211B, 212B move toward the user and come into contact with the user, thereby improving the holdability.

[0337] The control unit CT2 displays an image of a cat changing the impact absorption rate on the monitor M2, giving the seated person the illusion that the cat character is actually changing the impact absorption rate, improving the entertainment value.

[0338] By configuring the vibration device 223 to activate when the pressure value obtained from the sensor 224 exceeds a threshold value, the vibration device 223 activates when the protrusions 211B, 212B come into close contact with the seated person, thereby ensuring that vibrations are transmitted to the user.

[0339] Ninth Embodiment Next, a ninth embodiment will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Note that this embodiment is a modification of the vehicle system 201 according to the eighth embodiment, and therefore, the same components and processes as those in the eighth embodiment will be denoted by the same reference numerals and will not be described again.

[0340] The vehicle system 501 according to the ninth embodiment includes an air cell 522 that is positioned and sized differently from the air cell 222 according to the eighth embodiment. The air cell 522 has a bag 222A that is larger than the air cell 222 according to the eighth embodiment, but the rest of the structure is similar to that of the air cell 222 according to the eighth embodiment.

[0341] An air cell 522 (bag 222A) is provided in each of the two base portions 211A, 212A. Since the structures around the air cell 522 in each of the base portions 211A, 212A are substantially the same, the structure of the base portion 211A of the seat cushion 211 will be described below as a representative with reference to Figure 28, and a description of the structure of the base portion 212A of the seat back 212 will be omitted.

[0342] 28A and 28B, the air cell 522 is an electric device that moves a part of the seating surface F2 of the base part 211A. The base part 211A further has a vibration device 223 and a sensor 224.

[0343] The vibration strength of the vibration device 223 can be changed. Note that, as a vibration device capable of changing the vibration strength, for example, a vibration device of a type that changes the frequency and amplitude of vibration to change the vibration strength can be adopted.

[0344] The vibration device 223 is located between the sensor 224 and the air cell 522. The sensor 224 is located between the skin SK and the pad PD.

[0345] The control unit CT2 according to the ninth embodiment executes the process of Fig. 29. The process of Fig. 29 is the same as the process of Fig. 26 except that step S212 in Fig. 26 is replaced with a new step S231 and step S217 is replaced with a new step S232.

[0346] After step S211, the control unit CT2 activates the vibration device 223 at the first strength (S231). That is, if the hardness of the suspension is equal to or less than the second predetermined value (S207: Yes), the control unit CT2 sets the strength of the vibration device 223 to be activated after the air cell 222 is stopped to the first strength.

[0347] After step S216, the control unit CT2 activates the vibration device 223 at a second strength greater than the first strength (S232). That is, if the hardness of the suspension is greater than the second predetermined value (S207: No), the control unit CT2 sets the strength of the vibration device 223 to be activated after the air cell 222 is stopped to the second strength greater than the first strength.

[0348] According to the ninth embodiment, the vibration strength of the vibration device 223 is changed based on the stiffness of the suspension, so that the seated person can understand from the vibration strength that the suspension stiffness has changed. In particular, when the stiffness of the suspension is greater than a second predetermined value, the vibration strength is set to a second strength that is greater than the first strength, so that the seated person can intuitively understand from the vibration strength that the suspension stiffness has changed.

[0349] Furthermore, the harder the suspension, the harder the base parts 211A, 212A become by inflating each air cell 522 provided in the base parts 211A, 212A, and the more easily impact from the road surface is transmitted to the occupant, allowing the occupant to understand the state of the suspension.

[0350] Note that the base portions 211A, 212A may be provided with a hardness variable member capable of changing hardness instead of the air cell 522. The hardness variable member may be, for example, a bag 222A similar to the air cell 522 in which a magnetic fluid is sealed. In this case, the control unit CT2 may change the hardness of the hardness variable member by applying a magnetic force to the magnetic fluid using an electromagnet.

[0351] In this case, the control unit CT2 executes the process of Fig. 30. The process of Fig. 30 includes new steps S251 to S253 in addition to steps S201 to S203, S207, S208, S213, S231, and S232 of the process of Fig. 29.

[0352] After step S203, the control unit CT2 changes the hardness of the hardness variable member to set the hardness of the pad PD (hereinafter also referred to as "pad hardness") to a first hardness (S251). After step S208, the control unit CT2 changes the hardness of the hardness variable member to set the pad hardness to a second hardness greater than the first hardness (S252), and proceeds to the processing of step S231. After step S213, the control unit CT2 changes the hardness of the hardness variable member to set the pad hardness to a third hardness greater than the second hardness (S253), and proceeds to the processing of step S232.

[0353] That is, if the suspension hardness is equal to or less than the first predetermined value (S202: Yes), the control unit CT2 sets the pad hardness to the first hardness. If the suspension hardness is greater than the first predetermined value and equal to or less than the second predetermined value (S207: Yes), the control unit CT2 sets the pad hardness to the second hardness. If the suspension hardness is greater than the second predetermined value (S207: No), the control unit CT2 sets the pad hardness to the third hardness.

[0354] Even in this configuration, the harder the suspension, the harder the base portions 211A, 212A become, and the more easily shocks from the road surface are transmitted to the seated person, so the seated person can understand the state of the suspension.

[0355] 31(a) and 31(b), the control unit CT2 may compare the amounts of expansion and contraction of the springs SP1 of the left and right suspension devices SP and inflate the air cells 222 so that the inner surfaces F3 of the protruding portions 211B, 212B on the compressed side move inward to the left or right. For example, if the control unit CT2 determines that the left spring SP1 is more compressed than the right spring SP1, it may inflate the left air cell 222 to move the inner surfaces F3 of the left protruding portions 211B, 212B inward to the left or right. In this case, for example, an image of a cat riding on the left spring SP1 and an image of the cat pushing the left protruding portions 211B, 212B inward to the left or right may be displayed on the screen M21.

[0356] 32 , the impact absorbing means may be an adjusting device 280 that adjusts the hardness of the tire T. The adjusting device 280 has a hardness variable frame 281 that can change the hardness, and an electrical conductor (not shown) that supplies electricity to the hardness variable frame 281.

[0357] The hardness variable frame 281 is built into a rubber tire T. The hardness of the hardness variable frame 281 can be changed by applying electricity.

[0358] The control unit CT2 may control the adjustment device 280 to adjust the hardness of the tire T, thereby changing the impact absorption rate.

[0359] The adjusting device may be, for example, a device that adjusts the tire hardness by adjusting the tire air pressure (see, for example, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2006-182235).

[0360] The operation unit is not limited to a switch for changing the drive mode, but may be, for example, a keyboard or touch panel that can input values ​​corresponding to shock absorption such as hardness.

[0361] The sensor may be, for example, a capacitive touch sensor.

[0362] The electric device may be any of the following: A movable device that changes the shape of a seat by driving a plate member (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 seating surface of the seat back or seat cushion).

[0363] 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.

[0364] 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.

[0365] The character may be an animal other than a cat, a living thing such as a plant, or an anthropomorphized object or living thing. The character may be set in advance, and may be, for example, an image of a deformed passenger.

[0366] The vehicle is not limited to an automobile, but may be other vehicles such as a motorcycle or a train.

[0367] Examples of methods for manufacturing a vehicle system include the following: A method for manufacturing a vehicle system including a body frame that supports a seat, shock absorbing means that is arranged between a road surface and the body frame and absorbs shock from the road surface, the shock absorbing means having an adjustable shock absorption rate, an electric device that moves a portion of the surface of the seat facing the occupant, and a control unit, wherein the control unit operates the electric device based on the shock absorption rate, the method comprising the steps of attaching the electric device to the seat, attaching the seat, the shock absorbing means, and the control unit to the body frame, and connecting the electric device to the control unit.

[0368] Tenth Embodiment A tenth embodiment will be described below with reference to the drawings. As shown in Fig. 33, a vehicle system 301 includes a seat 310, a robot 330, and a control unit CT3. The seat 310 and the robot 330 are interior components disposed in positions facing the passenger compartment. In this embodiment, the seat 310 is a driver's seat.

[0369] The seat 310 has a seat body 310A, an electric height mechanism HT, an electric reclining mechanism RC, and an electric slide mechanism SD as examples of electric devices, and a height switch 364, a reclining switch 361, and a slide switch 362 as examples of operating units.

[0370] The seat body 310A is a member having a seating surface that supports the user. The seat body 310A includes a seat cushion 311, a seat back 312, and a headrest 313. The seat cushion 311, the seat back 312, and the headrest 313 each have a metal frame that forms the framework, a pad that covers the frame, and a cover that covers the pad. The pad is made of urethane foam or the like. The cover is made of synthetic leather, fabric, or the like. The upper surface of the seat cushion 311 forms the seating surface. The front surfaces of the seat back 312 and the headrest 313 each form the seating surface.

[0371] The electric height mechanism HT is a mechanism for moving the seat body 310A up and down, and includes a motor that is activated by energization.

[0372] The electric reclining mechanism RC is a mechanism that tilts the seat back 312. The electric reclining mechanism RC includes a motor that is activated by energization.

[0373] The electric slide mechanism SD is a device that moves the seat 310 in the front-rear direction. The seat 310 is supported on slide rails SR so that it can move in the front-rear direction. The electric slide mechanism SD includes a motor that is activated by energization.

[0374] The height switch 364 is an operating unit for operating the electric height mechanism HT. The height switch 364 is, for example, slidable in the vertical direction. When the height switch 364 is slid upward, it outputs an upward command to the control unit CT3 to move the seat body 310A upward. When the height switch 364 is slid downward, it outputs a downward command to the control unit CT3 to move the seat body 310A downward.

[0375] The reclining switch 361 is an operating unit for operating the electric reclining mechanism RC. The reclining switch 361 can be tilted, for example, in the forward and backward directions. When tilted forward, the reclining switch 361 outputs a forward tilt command to the control unit CT3 to tilt the seat back 312 forward. When tilted rearward, the reclining switch 361 outputs a rearward tilt command to the control unit CT3 to tilt the seat back 312 rearward.

[0376] The slide switch 362 is an operating unit for operating the electric slide mechanism SD. The slide switch 362 is slidable, for example, in the front-to-rear direction. When the slide switch 362 is slid forward, it outputs a forward command to the control unit CT3 to move the seat 310 forward. When the slide switch 362 is slid rearward, it outputs a backward command to the control unit CT3 to move the seat 310 rearward.

[0377] The robot 330 is disposed in a position visible to a user seated in the seat 310. In this embodiment, the robot 330 is disposed on the dashboard D. More specifically, as shown in FIG. 34 , the robot 330 is disposed in the center of the dashboard D in the left-right direction.

[0378] 35, the robot 330 has a robot body 331, two arms 332, and a screen 333 as an example of a display unit. The robot body 331 has a body case 331A, two arm driving devices 331B, and a vibration device 331C.

[0379] The main body case 331A is made of resin, metal, or the like. The main body case 331A is formed in a substantially hemispherical shape (see FIG. 36(d)). The arm driving device 331B is a device that rotates the arm 332 up and down when energized. The vibration device 331C is a device that vibrates when energized.

[0380] Each arm 332 is rotatably supported by the main body case 331A. Each arm 332 extends upward from the left and right sides of the main body case 331A. As shown in Figure 36(a) , each arm 332 can be rotated by an arm driving device 331B between a first arm position where the tip thereof faces upward and a second arm position where the tip thereof faces outward in the left-right direction from the first arm position.

[0381] The screen 333 can display images of the robot 330's eyes and mouth.

[0382] The robot 330 is supported by a robot support device RM. The robot support device RM has a rotation mechanism RM1 that rotatably supports the robot body 331, an elevating mechanism RM2 that moves the rotation mechanism RM1 in the up-down direction, and a front-rear movement mechanism RM3 that moves the elevating mechanism RM2 in the front-rear direction.

[0383] The rotation mechanism RM1 has a function of tilting the robot 330 left and right as shown in Fig. 36(c). The rotation mechanism RM1 also has a function of tilting the robot 330 forward and backward as shown in Fig. 36(d). The rotation mechanism RM1 also has a function of rotating the robot 330 around a vertical axis (see Fig. 44(a)).

[0384] As shown in Fig. 36(b), the lifting mechanism RM2 has a function of moving the turning mechanism RM1 in the vertical direction, thereby moving the robot 330 in the vertical direction. As shown in Fig. 36(d), the front-rear movement mechanism RM3 has a function of moving the lifting mechanism RM2 in the vertical direction, thereby moving the robot 330 and the turning mechanism RM1 in the vertical direction.

[0385] The control unit CT3 has a CPU, ROM, RAM, rewritable non-volatile memory, etc. (not shown), and executes pre-stored programs. The control unit CT3 is connected to each electric device and each operation unit of the seat 310, and to the robot 330. The control unit CT3 may be provided in the seat 310, or may be provided in a member other than the seat 310.

[0386] The control unit CT3 has a function of executing a linkage process that links the operation of the robot 330 with the operation of the electric device. The control unit CT3 executes the linkage process based on information acquired from the operation unit.

[0387] Specifically, as shown in Fig. 37, when the user operates the reclining switch 361, the control unit CT3 activates the electric reclining mechanism RC to tilt the seat back 312 in the front-rear direction, and also activates the rotation mechanism RM1 to tilt the robot 330 in the front-rear direction. In addition, as shown in Fig. 38, when the user operates the slide switch 362, the control unit CT3 activates the electric slide mechanism SD to move the seat 310 in the front-rear direction, and also activates the front-rear movement mechanism RM3 to move the robot 330 in the front-rear direction.

[0388] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 39, when the user operates the height switch 364, the control unit CT3 activates the electric height mechanism HT to move the seat body 310A in the vertical direction, and activates the lifting mechanism RM2 to move the robot 330 in the vertical direction.

[0389] Specifically, the control unit CT3 moves the robot 330 based on the operation command and the map shown in Fig. 40. Here, the operation command is a command for operating the seat 310, and refers to a forward tilt command, backward tilt command, forward movement command, backward movement command, up movement command, or down movement command output from one of the plurality of switches (361, 362, 364) described above. Note that the operation of each electric device of the seat 310 in response to the operation command is well known, and therefore will not be described here.

[0390] When the operation command is a forward lean command, the control unit CT3 leans forward the robot 330. Here, the forward leaning of the robot 330 means that the robot 330 leans so that the screen 333 of the robot 330 gradually faces downward. In other words, the forward leaning of the robot 330 means that the robot 330 leans toward the rear of the vehicle (toward the user) as seen by the user seated in the seat 310.

[0391] When the operation command is a backward lean command, the control unit CT3 leans backward the robot 330. Here, the backward leaning of the robot 330 means that the robot 330 leans so that the screen 333 of the robot 330 gradually faces upward. In other words, the backward leaning of the robot 330 means that the robot 330 leans toward the front of the vehicle (away from the user) as seen by the user seated in the seat 310.

[0392] When the operation command is a forward movement command, the control unit CT3 moves the robot 330 forward. Here, the forward movement of the robot 330 means that the robot 330 moves rearward (toward the user) of the vehicle as seen from the user seated in the seat 310.

[0393] When the operation command is a reverse command, the control unit CT3 reverses the robot 330. Here, the reverse of the robot 330 means that the robot 330 moves forward of the vehicle (away from the user) as seen from the user seated in the seat 310.

[0394] When the operation command is a command to raise the robot 330, the control unit CT3 raises the robot 330. When the operation command is a command to lower the robot 330, the control unit CT3 lowers the robot 330.

[0395] The control unit CT3 repeatedly executes the process of Fig. 41. In the process of Fig. 41, the control unit CT3 first determines whether or not there is an operation command (S301). If it is determined in step S301 that there is no operation command (No), the control unit CT3 ends this process.

[0396] If it is determined in step S301 that an operation command has been received (Yes), the control unit CT3 activates the electric device of the seat 310 corresponding to the operation command in a manner corresponding to the operation command (S302). After step S302, the control unit CT3 activates the vibration device 331C of the robot 330 (S303).

[0397] After step S303, the control unit CT3 moves the robot 330 based on the operation command and the map in Fig. 40 (S304). After step S304, the control unit CT3 ends this process.

[0398] Next, a specific example of the operation of the control unit CT3 will be described. As shown in Figure 37, when the user tilts the reclining switch 361 backward, the reclining switch 361 outputs a rearward tilt command to the control unit CT3. When the control unit CT3 receives the rearward tilt command, it activates the electric reclining mechanism RC to tilt the seat back 312 backward.

[0399] Furthermore, the control unit CT3 activates the vibration device 331C (see FIG. 35) to vibrate the robot 330, and activates the rotation mechanism RM1 to tilt the robot 330 backward. This allows the user, who sees the movement of the robot 330, to feel that the robot 330 is imitating the movement of the seat 310, and thus creates a sense of closeness to the robot 330.

[0400] As described above, this embodiment can provide the following advantages: The robot 330 and the electric device of the seat 310 are linked together, which can enhance entertainment value compared to a configuration in which only the robot moves.

[0401] By configuring the control unit CT3 to execute linked processing based on information acquired from the operation unit, the user feels that the robot 330 is imitating the movements of the seat 310, which gives the user a sense of closeness to the robot 330, thereby enhancing the entertainment value.

[0402] In the tenth embodiment, the robot 330 is moved after the seat 310 is moved in the interlocking process, but the opposite may be true: the robot 330 is moved after the seat 310 is moved in the interlocking process. In this case, step S302 in the process of FIG. 41 may be moved after step S304. Furthermore, the operation of the robot 330 and the operation of the seat 310 may be started simultaneously in the interlocking process.

[0403] When the robot 330 is moved before the seat 310 in the interlocking process, the control unit CT3 operates the electric devices in accordance with the movement of the robot 330. In this configuration in which the electric devices of the seat 310 are operated in accordance with the movement of the robot 330, the user can also experience the action movement performed by the robot 330, thereby enhancing the entertainment value. Note that in the configuration in which the electric devices of the seat 310 are operated in accordance with the movement of the robot 330, for example, the control unit CT3 may move the robot 330 under conditions different from the operation command, and then move the seat 310 in accordance with the movement of the robot 330.

[0404] [Eleventh Embodiment] Next, an eleventh embodiment will be described in detail with reference to the drawings as appropriate. Note that this embodiment is a modification of the tenth embodiment, in which a part of the configuration of the vehicle system 301 and a part of the operation of the control unit CT3 are changed. Therefore, the same components and processes as those in the tenth embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and description thereof will be omitted.

[0405] 42 , a vehicle system 601 according to the eleventh embodiment includes a seat 610 having a structure slightly different from that of the tenth embodiment. The seat 610 includes a seat body 610A having a configuration substantially similar to that of the seat body 310A of the tenth embodiment, and further includes a vibration device 370, an air cell 380, a first sensor 341, a second sensor 342, and a mode selector switch 363, which are not included in the tenth embodiment. In this embodiment, the vibration device 370 corresponds to the electric device, and the air cell 380 corresponds to the second electric device that is different from the electric device.

[0406] The seat cushion 311 has a base portion 311A ​​located in the left-right center and protruding portions 311B located on both the left and right outer sides of the base portion 311A. The base portion 311A ​​has a seating surface F4 that contacts and supports the user's buttocks and thighs from below. The protruding portions 311B protrude from the seating surface F4 of the base portion 311A ​​toward the user to support the sides of the user's thighs and buttocks.

[0407] Similarly, the seat back 312 has a base portion 312A located in the center of the seat back and extension portions 312B located on both the left and right sides of the base portion 312A. The base portion 312A has a seating surface F4 that contacts the user's back and supports the back from behind. The extension portions 312B extend outward from the seating surface F4 of the base portion 312A toward the user to support the sides of the user's upper body.

[0408] The vibration device 370 is a device that vibrates the seating surface F4 of the seat 610. In this embodiment, the vibration device 370 is provided on the base portion 312A of the seat back 312. For example, one vibration device 370 is provided on the left side and one on the right side of the base portion 312A. The vibration device 370 is disposed at a position corresponding to the back of a user seated in the seat 610.

[0409] The air cell 380 is an electric device that moves the seating surface F4 of the seat 610. In this embodiment, the air cell 380 is provided on the base portion 312A of the seat back 312.

[0410] The air cell 380 includes an inflatable / deflateable bag 381, a pump, and a tube (not shown). The pump has the function of sending air into the bag 381 and sucking air out of the bag 381, and is activated by passing electricity. The tube connects the bag 381 and the pump.

[0411] The bag 381 is embedded in the pad. The pump is fixed to, for example, the frame of the seat 610. The bag 381 is disposed at a position corresponding to the waist of a user seated on the seat 610. The bag 381 is located below the vibration device 370.

[0412] The seat cushion 311 has a first sensor 341. The headrest 313 has a second sensor 342.

[0413] The first sensor 341 and the second sensor 342 are sensors that detect when the user touches the seat 610. Specifically, the first sensor 341 and the second sensor 342 are pressure sensors that detect pressure from the user. The first sensor 341 and the second sensor 342 are disposed at positions that avoid the seating surface F4, that is, at positions that are separated from the seating surface F4.

[0414] Specifically, the first sensors 341 are provided on the left and right protrusions 311B of the seat cushion 311. The second sensors 342 are disposed in positions different from the first sensors 341. Specifically, the second sensors 342 are provided on the left and right side surfaces of the headrest 313. The first sensors 341 and the second sensors 342 are each located between the cover and the pad.

[0415] The mode changeover switch 363 is a switch for switching the mode of the control unit CT3 between a first mode and a second mode. Here, the first mode is a mode in which interlocking processing is executed. Furthermore, the second mode is a mode in which interlocking processing is not executed. The mode changeover switch 363 is, for example, a push button switch. The mode changeover switch 363 alternates between an ON state and an OFF state each time the user presses it. In this embodiment, when the mode changeover switch 363 is in the OFF state, the mode is the second mode, and when the mode changeover switch 363 is in the ON state, the mode is the first mode.

[0416] The control unit CT3 according to the eleventh embodiment has a function of executing interlocking processing based on information acquired from the first sensor 341 or the second sensor 342. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 43 , when the control unit CT3 acquires information from the first sensor 341, the control unit CT3 operates the robot 330 with a first action and activates the vibration device 370 of the seat 610 based on the information from the first sensor 341. In this embodiment, the first action is the opening and closing of each arm 332 of the robot 330, i.e., the vertical movement of each arm 332. The control unit CT3 opens and closes each arm 332 by operating each arm driving device 331B.

[0417] 44 , when the control unit CT3 acquires information from the second sensor 342, it causes the robot 330 to perform a second action different from the first action based on the information from the second sensor 342, and also activates the air cell 380 of the seat 610. In this embodiment, the second action is an operation in which the robot 330 rotates around a vertical axis. The control unit CT3 rotates the robot 330 by operating the rotation mechanism RM1.

[0418] The control unit CT3 according to the eleventh embodiment repeatedly executes the process of Fig. 45. In the process of Fig. 45, the control unit CT3 first determines whether the mode changeover switch 363 is ON (S321). If it is determined in step S321 that the mode changeover switch 363 is not ON (No), the control unit CT3 sets the mode to the second mode (S327) and ends this process.

[0419] If it is determined in step S321 that the mode selector switch 363 is ON (Yes), the control unit CT3 switches the mode to the first mode (S322). After step S322, the control unit CT3 determines whether there is an input to the second sensor 342 (S323). Note that the determination of whether there is an input to the second sensor 342 may be made, for example, by determining whether the pressure acquired from the second sensor 342 is equal to or greater than a second threshold value.

[0420] If it is determined in step S323 that there is an input to the second sensor 342 (Yes), the control unit CT3 activates the vibration device 331C of the robot 330 (S324). After step S324, the control unit CT3 rotates the robot 330 (S325).

[0421] After step S325, the control unit CT3 repeats the inflation and deflation of the bladders 381 of the air cells 380 of the sheet 310 at a predetermined cycle for a predetermined time (S326). After step S326, the control unit CT3 ends this process.

[0422] If it is determined in step S323 that there is no input to the second sensor 342 (No), the control unit CT3 determines whether there is an input to the first sensor 341 (S328). Note that the determination of whether there is an input to the first sensor 341 may be made, for example, by determining whether the pressure acquired from the first sensor 341 is equal to or greater than a first threshold value.

[0423] If it is determined in step S328 that there is an input to the first sensor 341 (Yes), the control unit CT3 activates the vibration device 331C of the robot 330 (S329). After step S329, the control unit CT3 opens and closes the arm 332 of the robot 330 (S330).

[0424] After step S330, the control unit CT3 activates the vibration device 370 of the seat 310 for a predetermined time (S331). Note that, as a method of activating the vibration device 370 in step S331, for example, it is sufficient to activate at least one of the left and right vibration devices 370. For example, the left and right vibration devices 370 can be vibrated simultaneously or alternately.

[0425] After step S331, the control unit CT3 ends this process. Also, if it is determined in step S327 that there is no input from the first sensor 341 (No), the control unit CT3 ends this process.

[0426] Next, a specific example of the operation of the control unit CT3 will be described. As shown in Fig. 43(b), when a user presses the inner surface of the protruding portion 311B of the seat cushion 311 and a pressure equal to or greater than the first threshold value is input to the first sensor 341, the control unit CT3 opens and closes the arm 332 of the robot 330 and activates the vibration device 370 of the seat 310 to vibrate the seat back 312, as shown in Fig. 43(a).

[0427] As shown in Figure 44(b), when the user presses the side of the headrest 313 and a pressure equal to or greater than the second threshold is input to the second sensor 342, the control unit CT3 rotates the robot 330 around the vertical axis and inflates and deflates the bag 381 of the air cell 380 of the seat 310, as shown in Figure 44(a).

[0428] As described above, according to the eleventh embodiment, the following effects can be obtained: When the user touches the seat 310, the seat 310 and the robot 330 move, which allows the user to feel as if they are communicating with the robot 330 via the seat 310, thereby enhancing the entertainment value.

[0429] The robot 330 and the seat 310 move in accordance with the position where the user touches the seat 310, which enhances the entertainment value.

[0430] [Twelfth Embodiment] Next, a twelfth embodiment will be described in detail with reference to the drawings as appropriate. Note that this embodiment is a modification of the tenth embodiment, in which a part of the configuration of the vehicle system 301 and a part of the operation of the control unit CT3 are changed. Therefore, the same components and processes as those in the tenth embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and description thereof will be omitted.

[0431] 46(a), a vehicle system 701 according to the twelfth embodiment includes a plurality of seats 310 similar to those in the tenth embodiment, and further includes a voice acquisition unit 730. In this embodiment, the plurality of seats 310 includes two seats, a driver's seat and a passenger seat, but the number of seats 310 may be three or more.

[0432] The voice acquisition unit 730 has a function of acquiring voice. The voice acquisition unit 730 is, for example, a microphone. The voice acquisition unit 730 is built into the robot 330. Note that the voice acquisition unit 730 may be provided in a member other than the robot 330, for example, in the seat 310 or a dashboard.

[0433] The control unit CT3 according to the twelfth embodiment has a function of executing linked processing based on an operation command given by the user's voice, which is acquired by the voice acquisition unit 730. The control unit CT3 has a function of selecting, from among the multiple sheets 310, a sheet 310 on which the linked processing is to be executed, based on the operation command.

[0434] When executing the interlocking process on a predetermined sheet 310, the control unit CT3 has a function of moving the robot 330 and directing the screen 333 of the robot 330 toward the predetermined sheet 310, and then executing the interlocking process, as shown in Fig. 46(b). As shown in Fig. 46(c), the control unit CT3 has a function of displaying a sheet image that resembles the sheet 310 on the screen 333 of the robot 330. As shown in Fig. 46(d), the control unit CT3 has a function of moving the sheet image in the interlocking process.

[0435] The control unit CT3 according to the twelfth embodiment repeatedly executes the process shown in Fig. 47. In the process shown in Fig. 47, the control unit CT3 first determines whether or not there is a voice operation command based on information acquired from the voice acquisition unit 730 (S351). Here, the operation command includes information on the seat position, the part of the seat 310 to be operated, the direction of operation, and the amount of operation.

[0436] The seat position is information indicating the driver's seat or the passenger seat. The part of the seat 310 is information indicating the seat back 312, for example, when the user reclines the seat 310. The movement direction is information indicating forward or backward, for example, when the user reclines the seat 310. The movement amount is information indicating the angle of the seat back 312, for example, when the user reclines the seat 310.

[0437] In step S351, when the control unit CT3 has acquired all of the above-mentioned information, it determines that there is an operation command. If it determines that there is no operation command in step S351, that is, when all of the information has not been collected (No), the control unit CT3 ends this process.

[0438] If it is determined in step S351 that an operation command is present, that is, if all information is present (Yes), the control unit CT3 activates the rotation mechanism RM1 to rotate the robot 330 so that the screen 333 of the robot 330 faces the seat 310 corresponding to the seat position (S352). After step S352, the control unit CT3 displays the seat image and an image corresponding to the operation command on the screen 333 (S353).

[0439] After step S353, the control unit CT3 activates the arm driving device 331B corresponding to the seat position of the two arm driving devices 331B to open the arm 332 on the seat position side of the robot 330, that is, rotates the arm 332 so that the tip of the arm 332 changes from facing upward to facing outward in the left-right direction (S354). After step S354, the control unit CT3 moves the seat image in accordance with the operation command. For example, when the user reclines the seat 310, the control unit CT3 rotates the seat back of the seat image.

[0440] After step S355, the control unit CT3 operates the electric device of the seat 310 corresponding to the seat position based on the seat position, operation target, operation direction, and operation amount included in the operation command (S356). For example, when the user reclines the passenger seat, the control unit CT3 operates the electric reclining mechanism RC of the passenger seat to rotate the seat back 312 until the position corresponding to the operation command is achieved. After step S356, the control unit CT3 ends this process.

[0441] Next, a specific example of the operation of the control unit CT3 will be described. As shown in Fig. 46(b), when a user sitting in the passenger seat issues a vocal operation command to the robot 330, such as "Tilt the passenger seat back 20 degrees backward," the robot 330 rotates and the screen 333 of the robot 330 faces the passenger seat. Thereafter, as shown in Fig. 46(c), the control unit CT3 displays on the screen 333 an image of a seat and an image of an arrow indicating that the seat back should be tilted backward.

[0442] 46(b), the control unit CT3 opens the arm 332 on the passenger seat side of the robot 330 and displays a video of the seat back of the seat image being rotated backward by 20° on the screen 333. Then, the control unit CT3 rotates the seat back 312 of the actual seat 310 (passenger seat) backward by 20° from its current position.

[0443] The operation command may be a command to move the seat 310 in the front-rear direction, or a command to move the seat body 310A in the up-down direction.

[0444] According to the twelfth embodiment, the following effects can be achieved: Since the sheet image moves in the interlocking process, the user can easily understand the operation of the sheet 310 via the sheet image.

[0445] When the linked processing is executed for the specified seat 310, the screen 333 faces the specified seat 310, so that the user seated in the specified seat 310 can easily see the seat image and can get the feeling that the user seated in the specified seat 310 is communicating with the robot 330.

[0446] [Thirteenth Embodiment] Next, a thirteenth embodiment will be described in detail with reference to the drawings as appropriate. Note that this embodiment is a modification of the eleventh embodiment, in which a part of the configuration of the vehicle system 601 and a part of the operation of the control unit CT3 are changed. Therefore, the same components and processes as those in the eleventh embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and description thereof will be omitted.

[0447] 48, a vehicle system 801 according to the thirteenth embodiment includes a seat 810 having a structure slightly different from that of the eleventh embodiment, and an acceleration sensor 820. The seat 810 includes a seat body 810A having substantially the same configuration as the seat body 610A of the eleventh embodiment, a plurality of air cells 380, 390, and a blower BL.

[0448] The air cell 380 is an air cell having a bag 381 of substantially the same size as that of the eleventh embodiment. The air cell 390 is an air cell having a bag 391 that is smaller than the bag 381 of the eleventh embodiment.

[0449] The seat back 312 has one air cell 380 and two air cells 390. The bag 381 of the air cell 380 of the seat back 312 is located in the same position as in the eleventh embodiment.

[0450] The air cells 390 of the seat back 312 are provided on each of the left and right overhanging portions 312B of the seat back 312. The air cells 390 of the seat back 312 move a part of the inner surface F5 located on the inner side in the left-right direction of the overhanging portions 312B.

[0451] The seat cushion 311 has one air cell 380 and two air cells 390. The bag 381 of the air cell 380 of the seat cushion 311 is disposed at a position corresponding to the buttocks of a user seated on the seat 810. The air cell 380 of the seat cushion 311 moves a part of the seating surface F4 of the seat cushion 311.

[0452] The air cells 390 of the seat cushion 311 are provided on each of the left and right protruding portions 311B of the seat cushion 311. The air cells 390 of the seat cushion 311 move a part of the inner surface F5 located on the inner side in the left-right direction of the protruding portions 311B.

[0453] The two air cells 380 are located in the center of the seat 810 in the left-right direction. The four air cells 390 are located to the left or right of the air cells 380. In the following description, the air cells 380 are also referred to as the "center air cells 380," and the air cells 390 are also referred to as the "left air cells 390 or right air cells 390."

[0454] The blower BL is provided in the seat cushion 311. The air blown from the blower BL passes through a passage formed in the pad of the seat cushion 311, and then passes through the surface of the seat cushion 311 and is discharged toward the user.

[0455] The acceleration sensor 820 is a sensor that detects the acceleration in the front-rear direction and the acceleration in the left-right direction of the vehicle. The acceleration in the front-rear direction and the acceleration in the left-right direction detected by the acceleration sensor 820 are output to the control unit CT3. The acceleration sensor 820 may be provided in the vehicle, the robot 330, or the seat 810.

[0456] The control unit CT3 has a function of tilting the robot 330 in the left-right direction based on the left-right acceleration acquired from the acceleration sensor 820, and of activating either the left or right air cell 390. As shown in Fig. 49, the control unit CT3 has a function of tilting the robot 330 in the front-back direction based on the front-back acceleration acquired from the acceleration sensor 820, and of activating the central air cell 390.

[0457] The control unit CT3 repeatedly executes the process of Fig. 50. In the process shown in Fig. 50, the control unit CT3 first determines whether the acceleration in the left direction is equal to or greater than a threshold value based on information acquired from the acceleration sensor 820 (S361).

[0458] If it is determined in step S361 that the leftward acceleration is equal to or greater than the threshold (Yes), the control unit CT3 tilts the robot 330 to the left (S362). After step S362, the control unit CT3 inflates the right air cell 390 (S363).

[0459] In step S363, it is sufficient to inflate at least one of the two air cells 390 on the right side of the seat 810. After step S363, the control unit CT3 ends this process.

[0460] If it is determined in step S361 that the leftward acceleration is not equal to or greater than the threshold (No), the control unit CT3 determines whether the rightward acceleration is equal to or greater than the threshold (S364) based on information acquired from the acceleration sensor 820. If it is determined in step S364 that the rightward acceleration is equal to or greater than the threshold (Yes), the control unit CT3 tilts the robot 330 to the right (S365). After step S365, the control unit CT3 inflates the left air cell 390 (S366).

[0461] In step S366, it is sufficient to inflate at least one of the two air cells 390 on the left side of the seat 810. After step S366, the control unit CT3 ends this process.

[0462] If it is determined in step S364 that the rightward acceleration is not equal to or greater than the threshold (No), the control unit CT3 determines whether the forward acceleration is equal to or greater than the threshold (S367) based on information acquired from the acceleration sensor 820. If it is determined in step S367 that the forward acceleration is equal to or greater than the threshold (Yes), the control unit CT3 tilts the robot 330 backward (S368).

[0463] After step S368, the control unit CT3 deflates the central air cell 380 (S369). Note that in step S369, it is sufficient to deflate at least one of the two air cells 380 located at the center in the left-right direction of the seat 810.

[0464] After step S369, the control unit CT3 operates the blower BL for a predetermined time (S370) and ends this process. Note that the threshold values ​​in steps S361, S364, and S367 may be different values ​​or the same value. Furthermore, at the end of this process, the control unit CT3 returns the robot 330 to its original position and returns the air cell 390 or the air cell 380 to its standard size.

[0465] Next, a specific example of the operation of the control unit CT3 will be described. When the leftward acceleration detected by the acceleration sensor 820 becomes equal to or greater than a threshold value due to the vehicle turning left, the control unit CT3 tilts the robot 330 to the left as seen by the user, as shown in Fig. 48(a). Thereafter, as shown in Fig. 48(b), the control unit CT3 inflates, for example, the two air cells 390 on the right side, to move the right inner surface F5 inward in the left-right direction.

[0466] As a result, the user receives pressure from the protruding portions 311B and 312B on the right side of the seat 810, causing the user's body to lean to the left. Therefore, the movement of the robot 330 and the movement of the user's body are synchronized, so the user feels as if they are turning to the left together with the robot 330, improving entertainment value.

[0467] Furthermore, when the forward acceleration detected by the acceleration sensor 820 due to the vehicle accelerating exceeds a threshold, the control unit CT3 tilts the robot 330 backward (forward as seen from the user) as shown in Fig. 49(a). Then, as shown in Fig. 49(b), the control unit CT3 contracts, for example, the two central air cells 380 to move the seating surfaces F4 of the seat cushion 311 and the seat back 312 away from the user. Furthermore, the control unit CT3 activates the blower BL to blow air from the blower BL toward the user.

[0468] This allows the user's body to sink into the seat 810 and feel the wind, so the user can sense the acceleration of the vehicle from the movement of the robot 330, and the user can feel the acceleration of the vehicle causing the user's body to sink into the seat 810 and the wind being generated by the acceleration of the vehicle, thereby improving entertainment value.

[0469] As described above, according to the thirteenth embodiment, the following effects can be obtained: The user can feel the acceleration of the vehicle in the longitudinal direction by the tilting of the robot 330 and the operation of the air cell 380, so the user can feel a sense of unity with the vehicle.

[0470] The user can feel the acceleration of the vehicle in the left and right direction through the tilting of the robot 330 and the operation of the air cell 390, so that the user can feel a sense of unity with the vehicle.

[0471] When the vehicle turns left, the right air cell 390 expands, so that the right overhanging portions 311B and 312B can support the user as they move to the right due to centrifugal force. Similarly, when the vehicle turns right, the left overhanging portions 311B and 312B can support the user.

[0472] Note that when one of the left and right air cells is inflated, the other air cell may be deflated. Furthermore, the control unit may inflate one of the left and right air cells (the side on the same side as the robot is tilted) after tilting the robot to the left or right. In other words, the left and right tilt of the robot and the operation of the left and right air cells may be reversed from those in the thirteenth embodiment.

[0473] [Fourteenth embodiment] Next, a fourteenth embodiment will be described in detail with reference to the drawings as appropriate. Note that this embodiment is a modification of the tenth embodiment, in which a part of the configuration of the vehicle system 301 and a part of the operation of the control unit CT3 are changed. Therefore, the same components and processes as those in the tenth embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and description thereof will be omitted.

[0474] As shown in FIG. 51, a vehicle system 901 according to the fourteenth embodiment further includes a camera CM2 as an example of a collision detection unit, and a vibration device DV as an example of an electric device.

[0475] The camera CM2 is a camera that captures images of the area in front of the vehicle. Image information captured by the camera CM2 is output to the control unit CT3. The camera CM2 is provided, for example, on the ceiling of the vehicle.

[0476] The vibration device DV is a device that vibrates the seating surface of the seat 310. In this embodiment, the vibration device DV is provided on the seat back 312. For example, one vibration device DV is provided on the left side and one on the right side of the seating surface of the seat back 312.

[0477] The control unit CT3 has a function of predicting a vehicle collision based on information acquired from the camera CM2, and when a vehicle collision is predicted, the control unit CT3 has a function of moving the robot 330 and the vibration device 70 in an operation pattern for notifying the user of the possibility of a vehicle collision.

[0478] The control unit CT3 repeatedly executes the process of Fig. 52. In the process of Fig. 52, the control unit CT3 determines whether or not there is a possibility of a vehicle collision based on the information acquired from the camera CM2 (S391). If it is determined in step S391 that there is no possibility of a collision (No), the control unit CT3 ends this process.

[0479] If it is determined in step S391 that there is a possibility of a collision (Yes), the control unit CT3 activates (S392) the vibration device 331C of the robot 330. The vibration pattern of the vibration device 331C in step S392 may be, for example, a pattern in which vibration is continuously performed for a relatively long first time period, or a pattern in which vibration is performed for a relatively short second time period and then the vibration is stopped multiple times for a relatively short third time period.

[0480] After step S392, the control unit CT3 activates the vibration device DV of the seat 310 (S393), and ends this process. The vibration pattern of the vibration device DV in step S393 may be the same as or different from the vibration pattern of the vibration device 331C of the robot 330, for example.

[0481] As described above, according to the fourteenth embodiment, the following effects can be obtained: When there is a possibility of a vehicle collision, the robot 330 and the seat 310 vibrate, thereby notifying the user of the possibility of a vehicle collision, thereby improving safety.

[0482] The vibration intensity when it is determined that there is a possibility of a collision may be greater than the vibration intensity when it is determined that there is no possibility of a collision. For example, if the control unit CT3 in the fourteenth embodiment is also capable of executing the process of FIG. 41 , the vibration intensity in step S303 may be a first intensity, and the vibration intensity in step S392 may be a second intensity that is greater than the first intensity. Note that, as a vibration device capable of changing the vibration intensity, for example, a vibration device that changes the frequency and amplitude of the vibration to change the vibration intensity may be used.

[0483] The movements of the robot and the electric device on the seat when there is a possibility of a vehicle collision are not limited to those in the 14th embodiment, and it is desirable for the robot and the electric device to move in an operating pattern that notifies the user of the possibility of a vehicle collision.

[0484] Specifically, the robot's motion may be, for example, a motion in which each arm 332 of the robot 330 is opened and closed multiple times as shown in Fig. 43(a), or a motion in which the robot 330 is rotated around a vertical axis as shown in Fig. 44(a). The movement of the seat's electric device may be, for example, a motion in which the air cell is expanded and contracted multiple times.

[0485] Instead of the collision possibility determination (S391) in the processing of Figure 52, another determination process may be provided. Examples of the another determination process include the following processes: - A process for determining whether the vehicle has entered an expressway, and proceeding to step S392 if it is determined that the vehicle has entered the expressway. - A process for determining whether a predetermined time has passed since getting in the vehicle, and proceeding to step S392 if it is determined that the predetermined time has passed. - A process for determining using a navigation system whether the distance between the vehicle and the destination is equal to or less than a predetermined value, and proceeding to step S392 if it is determined that the distance is equal to or less than the predetermined value.

[0486] The trigger for the robot to start operating can be set arbitrarily. For example, the control unit may operate the robot at a predetermined time, or may operate the robot based on biometric information of the occupant or external information of the vehicle. The robot may also operate autonomously.

[0487] The movements of the robot and the seat's electric device are not limited to those of the above embodiment, and may be the following movements: When the robot waves its hand, the armrest of the seat moves. Specifically, when the robot rotates one of the left or right arms multiple times, the mechanism that rotates the armrest is activated. When the robot moves the arm multiple times, the seat's vibration device is activated. The reclining mechanism tilts in accordance with the robot's movements to rest. Specifically, when the robot leans back, the electric reclining mechanism is activated so that the seat back tilts back. When the robot moves the arm multiple times, the air cell is activated.

[0488] The sensor may be a capacitive touch sensor, and may be provided, for example, at the front end of the seat cushion, the protruding portion of the seat cushion, the protruding portion of the seat back, and the side of the headrest.

[0489] The seat is not limited to the structure of the above embodiment. For example, as shown in Fig. 53, the seat 200 may have an ottoman 240 and an armrest 250 in addition to the seat cushion 260, seat back 270, and headrest 230. A console box CB may also be provided next to the seat 200.

[0490] In the embodiment shown in Figure 53, the seat back 270 has a first member 271 that is rotatably supported on the seat cushion 260, and a second member 272 that is rotatably supported on the upper part of the first member 271 and has a headrest 230 provided on the upper part.

[0491] In this case, the sensor 340 that outputs a signal to start the interlocking process can be disposed in at least one of the following locations: Left and right protruding portions 261 of the seat cushion 260; Front end surface of the seat cushion 260; Left and right protruding portions 271A of the first member 271; Left and right protruding portions 272A of the second member 272; Left and right side surfaces or rear surface of the seat back 270; Left and right side surfaces, bottom surface or rear surface of the headrest 230; Front end surface, top surface, left and right inner side surfaces or left and right outer side surfaces of the armrest 250; Left and right side surfaces of the ottoman 240; Left and right inner side surfaces or left and right outer side surfaces of the console box CB.

[0492] Also, as shown in FIG. 54, the sensor 340 may be provided on the steering ST, as indicated by dotted hatching in the figure.

[0493] 55 , the sensor 340 may be provided in a center console box 441 located between the driver's seat and the passenger seat, in a dashboard 442, or in an inner panel 443 such as a door or vehicle side wall, as indicated by hatching with dots in the figure. The sensor 340 may also be provided inside a cylindrical blower 444. The cylindrical blower 444 has an air outlet in its cylindrical body for blowing air toward the interior of the vehicle.

[0494] 56 , sensor 340 may be provided in a member (seat cushion, seat back, headrest) constituting at least one of first-row seat 451, second-row seat 452, or third-row seat 453, as indicated by dotted hatching in the figure. Sensor 340 may also be provided in roof 454, a lid 455 for opening and closing a sunroof, assist grip 456, the upper part of the back of the seatback, the upper surface of dashboard 442, or above a meter hood. Sensor 340 may be integrated into the interior member or may be disposed so as to protrude from the interior member.

[0495] 57 , the sensor may be a tactile sensor 500 that detects displacement in three-dimensional directions. Tactile sensor 500 has an operation unit 510 made of sponge and a substrate 530 that detects displacement of operation unit 510. Tactile sensor 500 can detect displacement in the X direction, displacement in the Y direction perpendicular to the X direction, and displacement in the Z direction perpendicular to the X and Y directions.

[0496] In this case, the control unit CT3 may move the robot based on the direction of displacement obtained from the tactile sensor 500. For example, the control unit CT3 may rotate the robot when the tactile sensor 500 is operated to draw a circle.

[0497] The sponge-type tactile sensor may be embedded in a stuffed toy modeled after a character such as a cat. The control unit may recognize the roll, pitch, and yaw directions corresponding to the six axial directions based on information from the tactile sensor.

[0498] The electrically powered device may be any of the following devices: a reclining device that tilts the seat back; a height mechanism that moves the seat up and down; a sliding device that moves the seat back and forth; a movable device that changes the shape of the seat by driving a bag (air cell) or plate member that is operated by letting air in; 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 mechanism that tilts the second member 272 in Figure 53 relative to the first member 271); a rotation mechanism that rotates the seat on a vertical axis; a cushion front-to-back 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 direction out of front, back, left, right, up and down). - 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

[0499] 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.

[0500] The vehicle is not limited to an automobile, but may be other vehicles such as a motorcycle or a train.

[0501] The collision detection unit may be an inter-vehicle distance sensor that detects the distance between the vehicle and a vehicle ahead.

[0502] Examples of methods for manufacturing a vehicle system include the following: A method for manufacturing a vehicle system including a seat with an electric device, a robot positioned in a position visible to a user seated in the seat, and a control unit, wherein the control unit executes a linkage process that links the operation of the robot with the operation of the electric device, the method comprising the steps of attaching the electric device to the seat, attaching the seat, the robot, and the control unit to a vehicle, and connecting the electric device and the robot to the control unit.

[0503] The robot may be capable of outputting a sound. The rotation of the robot about the vertical axis and the rotation of the seat about the vertical axis may be linked.

[0504] The vibration of the dashboard vibration device and the vibration of the seat vibration device may be linked.

[0505] The elements described in the above-described embodiment and modified examples may be implemented in any combination.

Claims

1. A vehicle system comprising: an interior component to be placed within a vehicle; an ornament attached to the interior component; an electric device that changes the shape of the ornament; a sensor that acquires biometric information of a user; and a control unit, wherein the control unit operates the electric device and changes the shape of the ornament based on the biometric information acquired from the sensor.

2. The vehicle system according to claim 1, wherein the decorative item protrudes from the interior member.

3. The vehicle system described in claim 2, characterized in that the ornament is deformable into a first shape extending in one direction and a second bent shape, and when the control unit determines that the user is tired based on biometric information obtained from the sensor, it activates the electric device to transform the ornament from the first shape to the second shape.

4. The vehicle system according to claim 2, wherein the interior member is a headrest of a seat, and the decorative item protrudes upward from the headrest.

5. The vehicle system described in claim 1, further comprising a display unit, wherein the control unit displays an image indicating the user's biological condition based on the biological information acquired from the sensor using the display unit.

6. The vehicle system according to claim 5, characterized in that the control unit is capable of displaying a character image on the display unit, and changes the character image based on the biometric information acquired from the sensor.

7. The vehicle system described in claim 1, characterized in that the ornament has a touch sensor that outputs a signal when touched by a user, and the control unit moves the ornament based on the signal from the touch sensor.

8. The vehicle system according to claim 1, wherein the control unit changes the number of movements of the ornament per given time period based on the biological information obtained from the sensor.

9. The vehicle system according to claim 1, wherein the ornament has a light, and the control unit turns on the light based on the biological information acquired from the sensor.

10. The vehicle system according to claim 1, wherein the ornament is shaped to resemble a part of an animal's body.

11. The vehicle system of claim 1, wherein when the control unit predicts a vehicle collision based on information from a collision detection unit installed in the vehicle, the control unit prohibits changes to the shape of the ornament based on biometric information, and predicts a vehicle collision by moving the ornament before the vehicle collision.

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