Apparatus and methods for guiding movement of a vehicle occupant

Abstract

There is provided an apparatus for guiding movement of a vehicle occupant. The apparatus comprising a seat having a plurality of pressure sensing zones which each comprise at least one bladder. The at least one bladder is in communication with a corresponding pressure sensing transducer. The apparatus also comprises a control module in communication with the or each pressure sensing transducer. The control module is configured to detect pressure changes in the pressure sensing zones and to cause inflation or deflation of at least one bladder. The apparatus further comprises a HMI in communication with the control module. The apparatus is configured to guide movement of an occupant in the seat via the HMI and to detect whether occupant movement corresponds to the guidance based on detected changes in the pressure sensing zones.

Description

[0001] Apparatus and methods for guiding movement of a vehicle occupant

[0002] Technical Field of the Invention

[0003] The present invention broadly relates to a system for improving health and wellbeing of a vehicle occupant. In particular, the invention concerns apparatus and methods involving guiding movement of a vehicle occupant based on the detection of pressure changes in a seat.

[0004] Background to the Invention

[0005] Using vehicles for transportation has become a fundamental aspect of daily life. People frequently spend prolonged periods of time travelling in vehicles, often multiple times a day. Such journeys may be boring, but a more pressing issue associated with spending such large periods of time in vehicles is that vehicle seats are often restrictive to natural human movement. This can be uncomfortable and lead to health issues such as muscle soreness and stiffness, in the short term and can potentially exacerbate preexisting medical conditions. However, as vehicles become increasingly automated, it is possible that people may choose to spend their time travelling to focus on various aspects of their health and wellbeing.

[0006] Furthermore, whilst vehicle seats are becoming more ergonomically adjustable to individual occupants, during long journeys, it will always be preferred that such vehicle seats allow some natural human movement.

[0007] It is widely acknowledged that there are significant health benefits associated with regular movement to stretch muscles and adjust position such that stresses on the body do not always act on the same places. Of course, it is not always possible for vehicle occupants to stretch and adjust their position as often as desired.

[0008] Modem vehicles are equipped with a number of sensors to improve the overall comfort and safety of the vehicle and its occupants.

[0009] DE102020210757A1 discloses a method for physically activating a vehicle user comprising at least one flat sensor on a surface of a seat, which is configured to detect touch in a spatially resolved manner. The method further comprises instructing the vehicle user to change their seat position in a targeted manner, and the change in position is detected by the at least one flat sensor. A measure of the change in seat position is carried out and feedback is output to the user.

[0010] DE 102016010406 Al discloses a method of allowing the seat occupant to control an entertainment device using body movement. The body movement of the occupant is detected by a sensor system such as a camera system or a touch-sensitive sensor. Based upon the detection by the sensor system, an evaluation unit outputs a command signal for controlling the entertainment device.

[0011] US9952680B2 discloses methods and systems for accepting inputs into a vehicle or other conveyance to control functions of the conveyance. A vehicle control system can receive gestures and other inputs. The vehicle control system can also obtain information about the user of the vehicle control system and information about the environment in which the conveyance is operating. Based on the input and the other information, the vehicle control system can modify or improve the performance or execution of user interface and functions of the conveyance. The changes make the user interfaces and / or functions user - friendly and intuitive.

[0012] In one of the very many proposals of US9952680B2 is the suggestion that seat sensors may be included in a vehicle and may provide health telemetry and / or identification via one or more of load cells, force transducers, weight sensors, moisture detection sensor, electrical conductivity / resistivity sensors and the like. For example, seat sensors may detect an occupant’s weight and use that detected weight to determine a match with a user associated with the vehicle. In another example, the sensors may detect that a user is suffering a seizure and slow down the vehicle or bring it to a stop.

[0013] It is also known in the art to incorporate a variety of sensor systems into a vehicle to maintain the comfort and safety of occupants. For example, camera systems are used to detect movement of drivers and check they have not fallen asleep. Tactile systems such as buttons and dials are also known to control systems such as cabin temperature and speaker volume.

[0014] Furthermore, it is known to incorporate pressure sensing systems into vehicle seating. Pressure sensing systems are often used as a safety control to detect the presence of a vehicle occupant, triggering a subsequent warning, such as a visual or audible seat belt reminder.

[0015] Aside from warnings encouraging drivers to take a break after a predetermined period of driving to prevent lapses in concentration, there are very few health and wellbeing warnings or activities for vehicle occupants. For example, the methods of DE 102016010406 Al and DE 102016010406 Al do not appear to have translated into any vehicles on the market. The inventors consider that there remains a need to encourage all occupants of the vehicle to protect their physical health and wellbeing.

[0016] Summary of the Invention

[0017] According to a first aspect of the present invention there is provided an apparatus for guiding movement of a vehicle occupant comprising: a seat having a plurality of pressure sensing zones; the plurality of pressure sensing zones each comprising at least one bladder in communication with a corresponding pressure sensing transducer; a control module in communication with the or each pressure sensing transducer, configured to detect pressure changes in the pressure sensing zones and to cause inflation or deflation of at least one bladder; a human machine interface (HMI) in communication with the control module; wherein the apparatus is configured to guide movement of an occupant in the seat via the HMI and to detect whether occupant movement corresponds to the guidance based on detected changes in the pressure sensing zones.

[0018] Providing such an apparatus for guiding movement is particularly advantageous as the apparatus is able to perform dual functions. By providing an apparatus which detects movement based on changes in the pressure sensing zones and guides movement of a vehicle occupant, the occupant is encouraged to stretch their muscles and adjust position to mitigate health concerns such as muscle soreness and stiffness. This leads to greater occupant comfort and long-term health. Furthermore, by detecting movement using an apparatus whereby at least one bladder may be inflated and / or deflated, it is possible to use as the means of detection, features that are already found in vehicle seats (e.g., for performing massaging functions). As such, additional sensors to a seat referred to and as proposed by DE 102016010406 Al and DE 102016010406 Al are not required. Obviously, this can significantly reduce the complexity of seat manufacture, which, it is postulated, is responsible for those solutions not reaching the market. Moreover, the bladders can of course also perform a massaging function, or may be inflated and or deflated to relieve the effects of pressure points.

[0019] Clearly, there is a synergy to using the same system of bladders to (1) detect guided movement of the occupant in response to the HMI and, (2) change the pressure points based on inflation / deflation (either as part of a massage function, or in the view of a hospital bed, altering the support / pressure points).

[0020] The seat may comprise a back rest (also known as a squab). The backrest may comprise a lumbar portion. The lumbar portion may be provided in the lower half of the backrest. The backrest may comprise a shoulder portion. The shoulder portion may be provided in the upper half of the backrest. The backrest may comprise at least one of a left-hand shoulder portion and right-hand shoulder portion. The or each left-hand shoulder portion and right-hand shoulder portion may be provided in the upper half of the backrest. The seat may comprise a base (also known as a cushion). The base may comprise a left-hand side leg portion. The base may comprise a right-hand side leg portion. The base of the seat may comprise at least one of a left-hand side bolster or right-hand side bolster and preferably both a left-hand side bolster and a right-hand side bolster. The backrest of the seat may comprise at least one of a left-hand side wing or right-hand side wing and preferably both a left-hand side wing and a right-hand side wing. The seat may comprise a head rest.

[0021] At least one of the plurality of pressure sensing zones may be provided in the back rest. Additionally or alternatively, at least one of the plurality of pressure sensing zones may be provided in the base. Additionally or alternatively, at least one of the plurality of pressure sensing zones may be provided in at least one of the left-hand side or right-hand side bolster. Additionally or alternatively, at least one of the plurality of pressure sensing zones may be provided in at least one of the left-hand side or righthand side wing. At least two of the plurality of pressure sensing zones may be provided in at least one of the back rest and the base. At least one of the plurality of pressure sensing zones may be provided in the left-hand side bolster and at least one of the plurality of pressure sensing zones may be provided in the right-hand side bolster. At least one of the plurality of pressure sensing zones may be provided in the left-hand side wing and at least one of the plurality of pressure sensing zones may be provided in the right-hand side wing. Preferably, at least one of the plurality of pressure sensing zones is provided in the left-hand side bolster, at least one of the plurality of pressure sensing zones is provided in the right-hand side bolster, at least one of the plurality of pressure sensing zones is provided in the left-hand side wing and at least one of the plurality of pressure sensing zones is provided in the right-hand side wing. More preferably, at least one of the plurality of pressure sensing zones may be provided in the lumbar portion, at least one of the plurality of pressure sensing zones may be provided in the shoulder portion of the backrest, at least one of the plurality of pressure sensing zones may be provided in the left hand side leg portion of the base, at least one of the plurality of pressure sensing zones may be provided in the right hand side leg portion of the base, at least one of the plurality of pressure sensing zones may be provided in the left-hand side bolster, at least one of the plurality of pressure sensing zones may be provided in the right-hand side bolster, at least one of the plurality of pressure sensing zones may be provided in the left-hand side wing and at least one of the plurality of pressure sensing zones may be provided in the right-hand side wing. Most preferably, at least one of the plurality of pressure sensing zones may be provided in the lumbar portion, at least one of the plurality of pressure sensing zones may be provided in the left hand side shoulder portion of the backrest, at least one of the plurality of pressure sensing zones may be provided in the right hand side shoulder portion of the backrest, at least one of the plurality of pressure sensing zones may be provided in the left hand side leg portion of the base, at least one of the plurality of pressure sensing zones may be provided in the right hand side leg portion of the base, at least one of the plurality of pressure sensing zones may be provided in the left-hand side bolster, at least one of the plurality of pressure sensing zones may be provided in the right-hand side bolster, at least one of the plurality of pressure sensing zones may be provided in the left-hand side wing and at least one of the plurality of pressure sensing zones may be provided in the right-hand side wing. Providing pressure sensing zones throughout the seat ensures that the position of the vehicle occupant can be accurately detected and monitored. Providing at least one pressure sensing zone on each of the left- and right-hand sides, allows more accurate monitoring of movement to the left and movement to the right. Providing a larger number of zones can enable the apparatus to guide a larger range of movements and provide more complex massaging functions.

[0022] Each pressure sensing zone may comprise at least one bladder. The number of bladders in the seat may correspond to the number of pressure sensing zones. Alternatively, the number of bladders may be greater than the number of pressure sensing zones. For example, at least one pressure sensing zone may comprise either one bladder or at least two bladders. At least one bladder may be provided in the pressure sensing zone provided in the backrest. At least one bladder may be provided in the pressure sensing zone provided in the base. At least one bladder may be provided in the pressure sensing zone provided in the left-hand side bolster. At least one bladder may be provided in the pressure sensing zone provided in the right-hand side bolster. At least one bladder may be provided in the pressure sensing zone provided in the lefthand side wing. At least one bladder may be provided in the pressure sensing zone provided in the right-hand side wing. Preferably, there may be provided two bladders in the pressure sensing zone provided in the base i.e., there may be provided one bladder in the pressure sensing zone provided in the left-hand side leg portion and one bladder provided in the pressure sensing zone in the right-hand side leg portion. Preferably there may be provided one bladder in the pressure sensing zone provided in the left-hand side bolster. Preferably there may be provided one bladder in the pressure sensing zone provided in the right-hand side bolster. Preferably there may be provided one bladder in the pressure sensing zone provided in the left-hand side wing. Preferably there may be provided one bladder in the pressure sensing zone provided in the right-hand side wing. Preferably, there may be provided at least two bladders in the pressure sensing zone provided in the backrest e.g. three bladders, i.e., there may be provided one bladder in each of the pressure sensing zones provided in the shoulder portion, and one bladder provided in the pressure sensing zone provided in the lumbar portion. More preferably, there may be provided two bladders in the pressure sensing zone provided in the shoulder portion i.e., there may be provided one bladder in the pressure sensing zone provided in the left-hand shoulder portion and one bladder provided in the right-hand side shoulder portion. More preferably, there may be provided two or three bladders in the pressure sensing zone provided in the lumbar portion. Where more than one bladder is provided in a single pressure sensing zone e.g., in the lumbar portion, it may be possible to calculate the pressure distribution across the entire pressure sensing zone by integrating over all the bladders within that zone. This is particularly advantageous as it allows each bladder to be individually adjusted by inflation and / or deflation whilst also enabling the pressure distribution over a larger area to be monitored. Alternatively, at last one bladder may be used to detect pressure in the zone and the other bladder(s) may not be used to detect pressure (e.g. they may be used for other functions, such as massage). Of course, it is also possible that there may be provided three or more individual pressure sensing zones within the lumbar portion, and that each pressure sensing zone may be provided with at least one bladder.

[0023] The or each bladder may be an air bladder. The or each bladder may be embedded into the seat. The or each bladder may be pre-charged with an initial fill of air. The initial fill of air may be in the range of 1%- 20% of the volume of the bladder. The initial fill of air may be in the range of 5%- 15% of the volume of the bladder. The initial fill of air may be in the range of 7.5%- 12.5% of the volume of the bladder. The initial fill of air may be at least 1%, 5% or 10% of the volume of the bladder. The initial fill of air may be no more than 12.5%, 15% or 20% of the volume of the bladder. Preferably, the initial fill of air may be 10% of the volume of the bladder.

[0024] Each bladder may be inflated and / or deflated individually. A plurality or each of the bladders may be inflated and / or deflated simultaneously. A plurality or each of the bladders may be inflated by an additional fill of air in the range of 0.5-100%, 5- 75%, or 10%- 50% of the volume of the bladder. A plurality or each of the bladders may be inflated by an additional fill of air of at least 0.5%, 5% or 10% of the volume of the bladder. A plurality or each of the bladders may be inflated by a maximum additional fill of air of 50%, 75% or 100% of the volume of the bladder. A plurality or each of the bladders may be deflated by a reduction in the fill of air in the range of 0.5- 100%, 5-75%, or 10%- 50% of the volume of the bladder. A plurality or each of the bladders may be deflated by a reduction in the fill of air of at least 0.5%, 5% or 10% of the volume of the bladder. A plurality or each of the bladders may be deflated by a maximum reduction in the fill of air of 50%, 75% or 100% of the volume of the bladder. It is particularly advantageous to increase and / or decrease the fill of air in each bladder as this can be utilised to generate a massaging effect within the chair. Furthermore, having the ability to control the fill of air of each bladder is particularly advantageous it enables the seat to be tailored to different sized people, or people’s desire for a snug (and sporty) fit or a loose (and more comfortable) fit, and remain comfortable for the occupant regardless of the occupant’s position. This helps to minimise points of high pressure on the occupant as a result of staying in the same position.

[0025] There may be provided at least one pressure sensing transducer. There may be provided a plurality of pressure sensing transducers. There may be provided one pressure sensing transducer per bladder. The or each bladder may be in wired communication with the at least one pressure sensing transducer. The or each bladder may be in wireless communication with the a least one pressure sensing transducer. Preferably, the or each bladder may be in communication with a unique corresponding pressure sensing transducer. This is a particularly advantageous arrangement as it allows accurate detection of pressure in each individual bladder which may be used to provide an accurate depiction of pressure distribution throughout the seat. There may be provided at least one pressure sensing valve block. The pressure sensing valve block may comprise at least one pressure sensing transducer. The pressure sensing valve block may comprise the or each pressure sensing transducer. The pressure sensing valve block may comprise one pressure sensing transducer per bladder. Additionally or alternatively, there may be provided an inline pressure sensor.

[0026] The pressure sensing transducer may be provided within the seat. Alternatively, the pressure sensing transducer may be provided elsewhere within the vehicle. The pressure sensing valve block may be provided within the seat. Alternatively, the pressure sensing valve block may be provided elsewhere within the vehicle. Providing the pressure sensing transducer and / or the pressure sensing valve block within the seat minimises the number of parts which must be separately wired and / or connected when installing the seat into the vehicle, thereby improving ease of installation.

[0027] The control module may be integrated into the or each pressure sensing transducer. The control module may be integrated into the pressure sensing valve block. Alternatively, the control module may be integrated into the HMI. Alternatively, the control module may be a separate device which may be provided within the vehicle, but outside the or each pressure sensing transducer and / or the pressure sensing valve block or the HMI. The control module may be in wired communication with the or each pressure sensing transducer. Alternatively, the control module may be in wireless communication with the or each pressure sensing transducers. The control module may be in wired communication with the pressure sensing valve block. Alternatively, the control module may be in wireless communication with the pressure sensing valve block. The control module may be in wired communication with the HMI. Alternatively, the control module may be in wireless communication with the HMI.

[0028] The control module may be configured to calculate relative movement of the seat occupant based upon the detected changes in the pressure sensing zones. The control module may be configured to detect the position of the seat occupant based upon the detected changes in the pressure sensing zones. This enables the control unit to accurately detect where and / or how the occupant is positioned within the seat as well as how the occupant has responded to being guided to move.

[0029] The HMI may visually display information to the occupant. The HMI may visually display information to the occupant via a display screen, or other display means. The HMI may visually display information to the occupant in the form of at least one of indicators, notifications and animations. The display screen may be an integrated vehicle display screen mounted within the vehicle or may be provided on an external device. The external device may be a mobile phone or tablet. The visual display screen may be a touchscreen and may, therefore, be an input device as well as an output device. The display screen may be at least one of a resistive touch display screen, a capacitive touch display screen or an infrared touch display screen. Alternatively, the display means by which the visual display is displayed may be, for example a HUD (Head-Up Display), a projector, or any other suitable visual display means, such as a display on or through vehicle trim as described in GB2566258A. Having the option to utilise an integrated vehicle display is particularly advantageous for occupants sitting in the front of the vehicle whereas providing the option to use an external device is advantageous for occupants sitting in the rear of the vehicle who may have a restricted view of a display screen mounted in the front dashboard.

[0030] The HMI may be operable to receive instructions from the occupant to inflate and / or deflate at least one bladder. The control module may be configured to cause inflation and / or deflation of at least one bladder in response to user input via the HMI. Therefore, the inflation and / or deflation of at least one bladder may be triggered by the occupant who may wish to adjust the fill of air within each bladder such that they can adapt the seat to match their own body and improve comfort.

[0031] Additionally or alternatively, the control module may be operable to initiate at least one massage sequence. The at least one massage sequence may be predefined. The at least one massage sequence may cause inflation and / or deflation of each bladder. The at least one massage sequence may cause inflation and / or deflation of each bladder sequentially. Additionally or alternatively, the at least one massage sequence may cause inflation and / or deflation of two or more bladders simultaneously. The at least one massage sequence may cause a predefined series of inflation and / or deflation of each bladder either alone or simultaneously with one or more other bladders. The control module may be operable to initiate more than one massage sequence. For example, there may be a plurality of predefined massage sequences. Each predefined massage sequence may target a specific muscle group. For example, there may be a predefined massage sequence to massage the full upper body, the upper legs, the lower back and the neck and shoulders. The provision of such massage sequences is particularly advantageous as it enables the seat occupant to receive a massage to improve comfort and wellbeing when travelling in the vehicle. Such a sequence may help reduce muscle tension, improve circulation, and alleviate muscle soreness.

[0032] The at least one massage sequence may comprise gradual inflation of at least one bladder over a predefined period of time followed by deflation of the at least one bladder over a predefined period of time. The at least one massage sequence may comprise inflation of at least one bladder for a period in the range of 0.5-10 seconds, 2- 8 seconds, or 4-6 seconds. The at least one massage sequence may cause inflation of at least one bladder for a minimum of 0.5 seconds, 2 seconds or 4 seconds. The at least one massage sequence may cause inflation of at least one bladder for no more than 6 seconds, 8 seconds or 10 seconds. In a preferred embodiment, the at least one massage sequence may cause inflation of at least one bladder for a period of 5 seconds. The at least one massage sequence may subsequently comprise deflation of the at least one bladder for a period in the range of 0.5-10 seconds, 2-8 seconds, or 4-6 seconds. The at least one massage sequence may subsequently comprise deflation of the at least one bladder for a minimum of 0.5 seconds, 2 seconds or 4 seconds. The at least one massage sequence may subsequently comprise deflation of the at least one bladder for no more than 6 seconds, 8 seconds or 10 seconds. In a preferred embodiment, the at least one massage sequence may subsequently comprise deflation of the at least one bladder for a period of 5 seconds.

[0033] Additionally or alternatively, the control module may be configured to cause inflation and / or deflation of at least one bladder in response to detection of the fill of air in the bladder. The control module may be configured to cause inflation of at least one bladder if the fill of air is detected to be below the initial fill of air. The control module may be configured to cause inflation of at least one bladder if the fill of air is detected to be in the range of 1-50%, 10-40%, or 20-30% below the volume of the initial fill of air. The control module may be configured to cause inflation of at least one bladder if the fill of air is detected to be at least 1%, 10%, or 20% below the volume of the initial fill of air. The control module may be configured to cause inflation of at least one bladder if the fill of air is detected to be no more than 30%, 40% or 50% below the volume of the initial fill of air. This is particularly advantageous as it ensures that the fill of air in the bladders are maintained at a constant level such that the occupant remains comfortable for a prolonged period and that they are supported in a beneficial position by the seat.

[0034] The apparatus may be configured to guide movement of an occupant by presenting a target location to the occupant via the HMI. The target location may correspond to one of the plurality of pressure sensing zones. Providing a target location guides an occupant to adjust their position within the seat and move towards the target location. Such movement encourages postural adjustment, thereby stretching the occupants’ muscles and helping to mitigate muscle stiffness and soreness. It is particularly advantageous to provide apparatus that may be both configured to guide movement of the occupant, and also to initiate at least one massage sequence and / or cause inflation and / or deflation of at least one bladder. Providing a single apparatus with multiple uses minimises the space required within the vehicle as a single system is required as opposed to multiple systems. This not only reduces the cost of components, but simplifies the manufacturing process, and also minimises the weight of the apparatus required resulting is improved fuel economy.

[0035] The HMI may output information to the occupant. The output information may be the target location. Additionally or alternatively, output information may be positive feedback and / or negative feedback. The visual display may display a representation of the seat and / or the occupant. The representation of the seat may be divided into a plurality of zones corresponding to the target locations. The target locations may be presented to the occupant via highlighting the target location on the representation of the seat. For example, the target location may be presented in first colour and the rest of the seat may be presented in a second colour. This contrast of colours provides the occupant with a visual representation of where they are being guided to move to reach the target location, improving ease of use. Alternatively, the target location could be highlighted by other means, for example showing movement of a representation of the occupant onto the target location of the representation of the seat.

[0036] By visually displaying information to the occupant via the display screen, the occupant may easily see where the target locations are and whether they have reached them via visual reinforcement.

[0037] Additionally or alternatively, the HMI may output information to the occupant by audio guidance. The audio guidance may be provided via a speaker. The speaker may output audible instructions to guide the occupant to a particular target location. For example, the plurality of target locations may be named and / or numbered and the audible instructions may comprise a pre-recorded statement to move to one of the plurality of target locations (e.g. an instruction to “move left”, or “move right”). Additionally or alternatively, the HMI may output information to the occupant by tactile feedback. The tactile feedback may be provided by inflation and / or deflation of at least one bladder. Alternatively, the tactile feedback may be provided by movement of the seat. For example, the seat may vibrate and / or move.

[0038] The HMI may be operable to receive instructions from the occupant to present a target location. For example, the HMI may comprise a soft-button on the touchscreen which the occupant may press to instruct the HMI to present a target location. Therefore, the presentation of a target location may be triggered by the occupant who may either feel the need to stretch and move or wishes to engage in an activity to relieve the boredom associated with long journeys (for example, the driver may use it when stuck in traffic, not concentrating on driving, when charging and / or filing the vehicle with fuel, or when the vehicle is in an autonomous driving mode, and of course passengers may use it at any time).

[0039] Additionally or alternatively, the target location may be presented to the occupant via the HMI when the control module detects that there has been no movement above an indication threshold over an indication time period. The indication time period may be re-set when movement above the indication threshold is detected by the control module. Additionally or alternatively, the indication time period may be re-set following the presentation of a target location to the occupant. The indication threshold may be an increase or decrease in pressure of at least 1% detected within at least one of the plurality of pressure sensing zones. The indication threshold may be an increase or decrease in pressure of at least 2%, at least 3%, at least 4%, at least 5%, or at least 10% in at least one of the plurality of pressure sensing zones. The indication threshold may be determined based upon a resting pressure recorded at the start of the indication time period. The resting pressure may be re-recorded following detection of movement above the indication threshold. The indication time period may be in the range of 20- 60 minutes. The indication time period may be in the range of 25-45 minutes. The indication time period may be in the range of 30-40 minutes. This allows the presentation of a target location to be proactively presented by the control module as and when it has been detected that the occupant has not moved in a prolonged period of time such that the occupant’s health and wellbeing may be monitored and protected.

[0040] The control module may determine movement of an occupant to the target location when an increase in pressure above a guided movement threshold quantity is detected. The control module may determine movement of an occupant to the target location when an increase in pressure above the guided movement threshold quantity for more than a guided movement threshold time period is detected in the pressure sensing zone corresponding to the target location. The control module may, in response to determination of movement, provide positive feedback via the HMI. The guided movement threshold quantity may be an increase in pressure greater than 1% in the pressure sensing zone corresponding to the target location. The guided movement threshold quantity may be an increase in pressure above 2%, 3%, 4%, 5%, 6%, 7%, 8%, 9%, or 10% in the pressure sensing zone corresponding to the target location. The changes in pressure may be determined based upon a base pressure recorded in the pressure sensing zone when the target location is presented to the occupant via the HMI. The guided movement threshold time period may be in the range of 0.1 to 10 seconds. The guided movement threshold time period may be in the range of 0.1 to 5 seconds. The guided movement threshold time period may be in the range of 0.1 to 2.5 seconds. The guided movement threshold time period may be in the range of 0.1 to 1.25 seconds. The guided movement threshold quantity ensures that the movement determined by the control module to the target location was intentional.

[0041] The positive feedback may be the presentation of a new target location. Additionally or alternatively, the positive feedback may be at least one of presenting a positive image or highlighting of the representation of the seat and occupant on the display in a third colour. By providing a game-like method of guiding occupant movement which rewards the occupant with positive feedback, the occupant is more likely to participate and gain the subsequent health benefits. Provision of feedback engages the occupant and encourages them to continue participating.

[0042] If the control module does not detect any change in pressure above the guided movement threshold quantity in the plurality of pressure sensing zones after a time-out threshold time period following the presentation of a target location, it may be configured to present negative feedback via the HMI. Additionally or alternatively, if the control module only detects changes in pressure above the guided movement threshold quantity in the plurality of pressure sensing zones not corresponding to the target location after the time-out threshold time period following the presentation of a target location, it may be configured to present negative feedback via the HMI. The time-out threshold time period may be above 1 second, for example 5 seconds. The time-out threshold time period may be above 5 seconds, for example 10 seconds. The time-out threshold time period may be above 10 seconds, for example 15 seconds. The time-out threshold time period may be above 15 seconds, for example 20 seconds. The negative feedback may be not presenting a new target location. Additionally or alternatively, the negative feedback may be presenting a query via the touchscreen to determine whether the occupant would like to stop the presentation of new targets. The negative feedback may be the display of a home-screen, or a scoreboard. This ensures that there is a definitive response time following the presentation of a target location which ensures that the occupant does not become bored or frustrated and lose engagement. Furthermore, the occupant has the option to prevent more targets being presented if they are no longer interested or are occupied by an alternative task. When negative feedback in the form of not presenting a new target location and / or the display of a home-screen or a scoreboard is presented and / or the occupant indicates that they would like to stop the presentation of new targets, the indication time period may be reset.

[0043] Additionally or alternatively, the negative feedback may be providing an indication to the user that movement to the target location was not detected. For example, an image may be displayed on the visual display to alert the occupant. Alternatively, an audio clip may be played via the speaker. Providing negative feedback appeals to the competitive nature of the occupant as they are likely to want to avoid this outcome, increasing the likelihood of participation which will assist in achieving the greatest health benefits.

[0044] In some embodiments the time-out threshold time period may remain constant following the presentation of each target location. In alternative embodiments, the timeout threshold time period may decrease following the presentation of each target location. For example, following the first presentation of a target location, the time-out threshold time period may be 15 seconds, then following the second presentation of a target location, the time-out threshold time period may be 14 seconds and so on. The decrease in the time-out threshold time period may be linear or may be exponential. In this way, the user has to move more quickly to reach the target location as each new target location is presented, thereby making the game more competitive and entertaining for the occupant.

[0045] The HMI may be configured to display a real time position of the vehicle occupant. The real time position of the vehicle occupant may be displayed via the display screen. The display may display a representation of the seat and the real time position of the vehicle occupant. This acts as a visual reminder to the occupant of the importance of adjusting position as they are able to see where the greatest pressures are being exerted within the seat and subsequently move to redistribute said pressures.

[0046] The control module may present a series of target locations sequentially to the seat occupant. The series may be predefined. There may be a series comprising at least 100 consecutive target locations. There may be a series comprising at least 200, 300, 400, 500, 600, 700, 800, 900, or 1000 consecutive target locations. The predefined series may be presented sequentially on a loop. In this way, the occupant will not be able to pre-emptively move to the target location as there is significant variety in the order of presentation of target locations. Additionally or alternatively, the series may correspond to a specific stretching sequence. For example, the series may correspond to a yoga flow. In this way the occupant may be able to progress through a sequence of movements which promotes stretching and relieves muscle soreness and stiffness.

[0047] The control module may be configured to calculate and display a score, such as a points value via the HMI. For example, the presentation of positive feedback may count for a single point value. The presentation of negative feedback may have no points value or have a negative points value. The HMI may be configured to display the cumulative points value scored by an occupant. For example, the HMI may display the score via the display screen or via the speaker. This encourages participation as occupants can aim to beat their previous points value, or that of other occupants in the vehicle.

[0048] According to a second aspect of the present invention there is provided a vehicle comprising the apparatus of the first aspect of the invention, optionally including any optional features outlined above. In a third aspect of the present invention there is provided a computer implemented method for selectively carrying out each of the following methods: (a) causing inflation and / or deflation of at least one bladder provided in each of a plurality of pressure sensing zones of a vehicle seat, and (b) guiding movement of a vehicle occupant in the seat via a HMI and detecting whether occupant movement corresponds to the guidance based on detected changes in the pressure sensing zones.

[0049] In this context, the term “selectively carrying out” method (a) and (b) means that it is capable of carrying out both (a) and (b) and operable to carry out (a) or (b) in response to user selection (e.g., in response to user input via the HMI).

[0050] The computer implemented method of (a) causing inflation and / or deflation of at least one bladder provided in each of a plurality of pressure sensing zones of a vehicle seat, may carry out at least one massage sequence, in response to user-selection of a massage function.

[0051] The computer implemented method of (a) causing inflation and / or deflation of at least one bladder provided in each of a plurality of pressure sensing zones of a vehicle seat may comprise the steps of causing inflation and / or deflation of each bladder sequentially.

[0052] The computer implemented method of (a) causing inflation and / or deflation of at least one bladder provided in each of a plurality of pressure sensing zones of a vehicle seat may comprise the steps of causing inflation and / or deflation of two or more bladders simultaneously.

[0053] The computer implemented method of (a) causing inflation and / or deflation of at least one bladder provided in each of a plurality of pressure sensing zones of a vehicle seat may comprise the steps of causing a predefined series of inflation and / or deflation of each bladder either alone or simultaneously with one or more other bladders.

[0054] The computer implemented method of (b) guiding movement of a vehicle occupant in the seat via an HMI and detecting whether occupant movement corresponds to the guidance based on detected changes in the pressure sensing zones may comprise the step of presenting to the user a target location corresponding to one of the plurality of pressure sensing zones. The computer implemented method of (b) guiding movement of a vehicle occupant in the seat via a HMI and detecting whether occupant movement corresponds to the guidance based on detected changes in the pressure sensing zones may comprise the step of determining whether the increase in pressure is in a pressure sensing zone corresponding to the target location and, if so, providing positive feedback via the HMI.

[0055] The computer implemented method of (b) guiding movement of a vehicle occupant in the seat via a HMI and detecting whether occupant movement corresponds to the guidance based on detected changes in the pressure sensing zones may comprise the step of detecting whether there has been no change in pressure above the guided movement threshold in the plurality of pressure sensing zones within a time-out threshold time period following presentation of the target location and, if so, providing negative feedback via the HMI.

[0056] The computer implemented method of (b) guiding movement of a vehicle occupant in the seat via an HMI and detecting whether occupant movement corresponds to the guidance based on detected changes in the pressure sensing zones may comprise the step of presenting to a user a new target location following the provision of either positive or negative feedback via the HMI.

[0057] The computer implemented method of (b) guiding movement of a vehicle occupant in the seat via a HMI and detecting whether occupant movement corresponds to the guidance based on detected changes in the pressure sensing zones may comprise the step of recording a base pressure in each of the plurality of pressure sensing zones following the presentation of a target location to the occupant.

[0058] The computer implemented method of (b) guiding movement of a vehicle occupant in the seat via a HMI and detecting whether occupant movement corresponds to the guidance based on detected changes in the pressure sensing zones may comprise the step of using the base pressure to determine whether the increase in pressure is in a pressure sensing zone corresponding to the target location is above a guided movement threshold.

[0059] The computer implemented method of (b) guiding movement of a vehicle occupant in the seat via a HMI and detecting whether occupant movement corresponds to the guidance based on detected changes in the pressure sensing zones may comprise the step of using the base pressure to determine whether the increase in pressure is in a pressure sensing zone not corresponding to the target location is above a guided movement threshold.

[0060] There may be provided a server comprising: one or more processors; and a memory operably coupled to the one or more processors. The memory may have stored thereon instructions that, when executed by the one or more processors, may cause the server to perform the method in accordance with any of the abovementioned method steps of the third or fourth aspects.

[0061] The instructions may be provided in software. The instructions may allow the server to provide services to the HMI. The services may include transmitting data from a storage device to the HMI, processing the data, and sending the results to the HMI. The data may include information about the plurality of pressure sensing zones.

[0062] The HMI may comprise a processor operably coupled to an input device. The HMI may also comprise at least one of a display screen and a speaker. The processor may also be connected to a memory having software stored thereon.

[0063] The HMI may be connected to the control module. The control module may be in communication with the seat. The control module may be programmed to interrogate the seat to obtain data from the plurality of pressure sensing zones within the seat.

[0064] Detailed Description of the Invention

[0065] In order that the invention may be more clearly understood one or more embodiments thereof will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, of which:

[0066] Figure 1 is a side view of a vehicle comprising the apparatus of the present invention;

[0067] Figure 2 is a front view of the plurality of pressure sensing zones of the seat of the apparatus of figure 1;

[0068] Figure 3 is an exploded front view of the bladders of the seat of figures 1-2;

[0069] Figure 4 is a front view of the apparatus of figure 1 ; Figure 5 is a side view of the seat and occupant of figures 1-4;

[0070] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of a massage sequence of the apparatus of figures

[0071] 1-5;

[0072] Figure 7 is a front view of the HMI of the apparatus of figures 1-6;

[0073] Figure 8 is a front view of the HMI of figure 7 showing the real time position of the occupant;

[0074] Figure 9 is a view of a sequence of target locations as displayed on the HMI of the apparatus of figures 1-8; and

[0075] Figure 10 is a schematic diagram of the apparatus for carrying out the computer implemented methods of the invention of figures 1-9.

[0076] In this application the terms front and rear are to be understood relative to a vehicle travelling in a forward direction of motion. The terms upper and lower are to be understood relative to a vehicle in its ordinary upright orientation. The terms lefthand side and right-hand side are to be understood relative to a person viewing the front of the vehicle.

[0077] With reference to figure 1, a vehicle 1 is provided with an apparatus for guiding movement of a vehicle occupant 2.

[0078] The apparatus for guiding movement of a vehicle occupant 2 is shown in figures 2-5. The apparatus 2 comprises a seat 3 having a plurality of pressure sensing zones 4a, 4b, 4c, 4d, 4e, 4f, 4g, 4h, 4i embedded within the seat 3. Each pressure sensing zone 4a, 4b, 4c, 4d, 4e, 4f, 4g, 4h, 4i comprises at least one bladder 5a, 5b, 5c, 5c’, 5c”, 5d, 5e, 5f, 5g, 5h, 5i in communication with a corresponding pressure sensing transducer 6 of a pressure sensing valve block 7. However, it will be understood that the pressure sensing valve block 7 is optional, and it is possible that the or each bladder 5a, 5b, 5c, 5c’, 5c”, 5d, 5e, 5f, 5g, 5h, 5i may be in communication with a corresponding pressure sensing transducer without the need for a pressure sensing valve block 7. The apparatus also comprises a control module 8 and human machine interface (HMI) 9. The control module 8 is in communication with the pressure sensing valve block 7 and is configured to detect changes in pressure in the pressure sensing zones 4a, 4b, 4c, 4d, 4e, 4f, 4g, 4h, 4i and to cause inflation and / or deflation of at least one bladder 5a, 5b, 5c, 5c’, 5c”, 5d, 5e, 5f, 5g, 5h, 5i. The control module 8 is also in communication with the HMI 9. The apparatus 2 is configured to guide movement of an occupant 10 in the seat 3 via the HMI 9 and to detect whether the occupants 10 movement corresponds to the guidance based upon detected changes in the pressure sensing zones 4a, 4b, 4c, 4d, 4e, 4f, 4g, 4h, 4i.

[0079] With reference now to figures 2 and 3, the seat 3 comprises a back rest (also known as a squab) 11, pivotably connected to a base 12. The backrest 11 comprises a left-hand shoulder portion and a right-hand shoulder portion in the upper section and a lumbar portion in the lower section. The base comprises a left-hand side leg portion and a right-hand side leg portion, whereby each portion comprises exactly half the base 12 divided down the midline. The seat also comprises a left-hand bolster 13a and righthand side bolster 13b and a left-hand wing 14a and right-hand side wing 14b at opposite edges of the base 12 and backrest 11 respectively. There are three pressure sensing zones provided in the backrest 11 : a pressure sensing zone in the left-hand shoulder portion 4a, a pressure sensing zone in the right-hand shoulder portion 4b, and a pressure sensing zone in the lumbar portion 4c. There is a single pressure sensing zone 4d, 4e provided in each of the left-hand side wing 14a and right-hand side wing 14b, and a single pressure sensing zone 4h, 4i provided in each of the left-hand side bolster 13a, right hand side bolster 13b. There are two pressure sensing zones 4f and 4g provided in the base 12 where one pressure sensing zone 4f is provided in the left-hand side leg portion and one pressure sensing zone 4i is provided in the right-hand side leg portion. However, in alternative embodiments there may be provided more than one pressure sensing zone 4 in any part of the seat 3 such as the left hand side wing 14a. Likewise, embodiments are envisioned with fewer pressure sensing zones 4a, 4b, 4c, 4d, 4e, 4f, 4g, 4h, 4i, e.g., zones in only the bolsters 13a, 13b; only in the wings 14a, 14b; or only in the bolsters 13a, 13b and the wings 14a, 14b.

[0080] Each pressure sensing zone 4a, 4b, 4c, 4d, 4e, 4f, 4g, 4h, 4i comprises at least one bladder 5a, 5b, 5c, 5c’, 5c”, 5d, 5e, 5f, 5g, 5h, 5i embedded within the seat 3. Each bladder 5a, 5b, 5c, 5c’, 5c”, 5d, 5e, 5f, 5g, 5h, 5i is an air bladder shaped and sized to cover the majority of the pressure sensing zone 4a, 4b, 4c, 4d, 4e, 4f, 4g, 4h, 4i in which it is placed. In this embodiment, each of the left-hand side wing 14a and right hand side wing 14b and the left-hand side bolster 13a and right hand side bolster 13b, are provided with a single bladder 5d, 5e, 5h, 5i. The base 12 comprises two bladders 5f, 5g positioned to the left-hand side and right-hand side of the base 12. The backrest 11 comprises a total of five bladders 5a, 5b, 5c, 5c’, 5c”. The lower half of the backrest 11 comprises three horizontally aligned elongate bladders 5c, 5c’, 5c” which are provided in a stacked formation in the lumbar portion, and the upper half of the backrest 11 is provided with two vertically aligned elongate bladders 5a, 5b provided on each of the left-hand side and right-hand side shoulder portions of the upper half of the backrest 11. The changes in pressure in the lumbar portion may be derived from the individual measurements in each of the three bladders 5c, 5c’, 5c” provided there. Alternatively, the changes in pressure in the pressure sensing zone in the lumbar portion may be detected by just one of the three bladders 5c, 5c’, 5c” provided there. Each bladder 5a, 5b, 5c, 5c’, 5c”, 5d, 5e, 5f, 5g, 5h, 5i in this particular embodiment is pre-charged with an initial fill of air which is 10% of the volume of the bladder 5a, 5b, 5c, 5c’, 5c”, 5d, 5e, 5f, 5g, 5h, 5i although it will be understood by the skilled person that the bladder may be pre-charged with an initial fill of air in the range of l%-20% of the volume of the bladder 5a, 5b, 5c, 5c’, 5c”, 5d, 5e, 5f, 5g, 5h, 5i.

[0081] In this particular embodiment there is provided a single pressure sensing valve block 7 although a greater number may also be provided. One suitable pressure sensing valve block is the ProActive Comfort Module (PACM) available from LEAR Corporation of Southfield, Michigan (USA). Another suitable pressure sensing valve block is the PSE540-M3 pressure transducer from SMC of Milton Keynes (UK). The pressure sensing valve block 7 comprises at least one pressure sensing transducer 6 although, in this particular embodiment, there are eleven pressure sensing transducers 6 i.e., one pressure sensing transducer 6 per bladder 5a, 5b, 5c, 5c’, 5c”, 5d, 5e, 5f, 5g, 5h, 5i. Each bladder 5a, 5b, 5c, 5c’ , 5c” , 5d, 5e, 5f, 5g, 5h, 5i is in wired communication with a unique pressure sensing transducer 6 although the skilled person will appreciate that it is possible to provide multiple bladders 5 in communication with a single pressure sensing transducer 6. The pressure sensing valve block 7 is embedded within the seat 3, and in wired communication with the control module 8. This arrangement is particularly advantageous as it enables the majority of the apparatus 2, aside from the HMI 9, to be pre-packaged within the seat 3 to allow easy installation within the vehicle 1 during manufacture. It will be understood by the skilled person that in alternative embodiments, the pressure sensing valve block 7 may not be embedded within the seat 3 and / or may be in wireless communication with the control module 8. Additionally, the control module may be integrally formed with the pressure sensing valve block 7.

[0082] When the occupant 10 sits on the seat 3, a pressure is exerted. The pressure exerted varies throughout the seat 3 depending on how the occupant 10 is positioned. As the occupant 10 adjusts position within the seat 3, the pressure distribution in the plurality of pressure sensing zones 4a, 4b, 4c, 4d, 4e, 4f, 4g, 4h, 4i changes. Changes in pressure in the pressure sensing zones 4a, 4b, 4c, 4d, 4e, 4f, 4g, 4h, 4i are detected by the pressure sensing valve block 6 and the control module 8 and such changes can be used to both detect the position of the occupant 10 and calculate the relative movement of the occupant 10 within the seat 3.

[0083] With reference again to figures 2-5, the control module 8 is in wireless communication with the HMI 9 which outputs information to the occupant 10. The HMI 9 in this particular embodiment visually displays information via an integrated vehicle display screen 15 shown in figures 7 and 8 mounted within the vehicle e.g., on the front dashboard and / or in the back of the front seats 3 of the vehicle 1. However, in other embodiments, the display screen 15 may be an external device such as a mobile phone or tablet. In this embodiment, the display screen 15 comprises a touchscreen 16 such that the occupant 10 can use the touchscreen 16 to input commands as well as receiving outputs from the display screen 15.

[0084] The control module 8 is operable to receive instructions form the occupant 10 via the HMI 9 to inflate and / or deflate at least one bladder 5a, 5b, 5c, 5c’, 5c”, 5d, 5e, 5f, 5g, 5h, 5i. This enables the occupant 10 to adjust the bladders 5a, 5b, 5c, 5c’, 5c”, 5d, 5e, 5f, 5g, 5h, 5i within each section of the seat 3 to adapt the shape / configuration of the seat 3 to match their personal preference. For example, the occupant 10 can select the option to “adjust seat” from a menu on the HMI 9, and then select to inflate or deflate each bladder 5a, 5b, 5c, 5c’, 5c”, 5d, 5e, 5f, 5g, 5h, 5i. For example, in some instances, the occupant 10 may want to feel that they are held more securely within the seat 3 and may therefore select to inflate the left hand side and right hand side wings 4d, 4e, and the left hand side and right hand side bolsters 4h, 4i such that the backrest 11 and base 12 of the seat 3 feel more enclosed by the overly inflated adjacent bladders 4d, 4e, 4h, 4i.

[0085] Additionally, the control module 8 is configured to cause inflation and / or deflation of each bladder 5a, 5b, 5c, 5c’, 5c”, 5d, 5e, 5f, 5g, 5h, 5i in response to detection of the fill of air in the bladder 5a, 5b, 5c, 5c’, 5c”, 5d, 5e, 5f, 5g, 5h, 5i being below the intended fill of air 5a, 5b, 5c, 5c’, 5c”, 5d, 5e, 5f, 5g, 5h, 5i. The intended fill of air is taken to be the fill selected by the occupant 10. In this particular embodiment, the control module 8 is configured to cause inflation of the or each bladder if the current fill of air is detected to be below a predetermined threshold in the range of 10-50% below the volume of the intended fill of air in the bladder 5a, 5b, 5c, 5c’, 5c”, 5d, 5e, 5f, 5g, 5h, 5i. In such instances, the control module 8 is configured to restore the fill of air in the bladder 5a, 5b, 5c, 5c’, 5c”, 5d, 5e, 5f, 5g, 5h, 5i to the intended fill of air such that the desired position of the seat 3 is maintained. By monitoring the current fill of air and determining whether it is below a predetermined threshold in comparison to the intended fill of air, the effects of any leakage from the bladders may be accounted for.

[0086] With further reference to figure 6, the control module 8 is also operable to initiate a massage sequence. In this particular embodiment, the massage sequence ((a) to (h)) involves the inflation and subsequent deflation of at least one bladder 5a, 5b, 5c, 5c’, 5c”, 5d, 5e, 5f, 5g, 5h, 5i. For example, in this particular predefined series, first the bladders 5d, 5e in the left-hand side wing 14a and right-hand side wing 14b (shown by “X” markings in (a)) are gradually inflated over a period of approximately five seconds to a fill of approximately 50% of the volume of the bladder 5d, 5e. Then both the bladders 5d, 5e in the left-hand side wing 14a and right-hand side wing 14b are subsequently deflated over a period of five seconds to the initial pre-charged fill of air of 10% of the volume of the bladder 5d, 5e. Following this, the control module 8 is operable to cause inflation and subsequent deflation of the bladders 5a, 5b, 5c, 5c’, 5c”, 5d, 5e, 5f, 5g, 5h, 5i denoted by “X” markings in image b, c, d, e, f, g, and h sequentially. In each subsequent round of inflation and deflation, the bladders are inflated to a fill of approximately 50% of the volume of the bladder 5a, 5b, 5c, 5c’, 5c”, 5d, 5e, 5f, 5g, 5h, 5i over a period of approximately five seconds, and then the bladders are deflated to the initial pre charged fill of air of 10% of the volume of the bladder over a period of five seconds. Each of the five bladders 5a, 5b, 5c, 5c’, 5c” in the backrest 11 are inflated and subsequently deflated, followed by the inflation and subsequent deflation of each bladder 5d, 5e in the left-hand side wing 14a and right-hand side wing 14b, then each bladder 5h, 5i in the left hand side bolster 13a and right hand side bolster 13b, then in the three bladders 5c, 5c’, 5c” in the lower half of the backrest 11, then the bladder 5a in the left hand shoulder portion in the upper half of the backrest 11, and the bladder 5g in the right hand side leg portion of the base 12, then the bladder 5b in the right hand side shoulder portion in the upper half of the backrest 11 and the bladder 5f in the left hand side leg portion in the base 12, and finally in both bladders 5a, 5b in the left hand side and right hand side shoulder portions in the backrest 11 , and bladders 5h, 5i in both the left hand side bolster 13a and right hand side bolster 13b. Such a massage sequence is particularly advantageous for reducing muscle tension and improving circulation of the occupant 10. The skilled person will appreciate that alternate massage sequences may be provided such as those that target specific muscle groups e.g., lower back or arms and shoulders.

[0087] With reference now to figures 2-5 and 7, the control module 8 is operable such that when it is initiated to guide movement of an occupant, it provides a target location 17 corresponding to at least one of the plurality of pressure sensing zones 4a, 4b, 4c, 4d, 4e, 4f, 4g, 4h, 4i. In the example shown in figure 7, the target location 17 corresponds to the pressure sensing zone in the right-hand side wing 14b shown in crosshatched markings. The target location 17 is presented to the occupant 10 via the human machine interface 9 and guides the occupant 10 to adjust their position within the seat 3 and move towards the target location 17, thereby encouraging the occupant 10 to stretch their muscles to promote long term health benefits such as reduced muscle soreness and stiffness.

[0088] The control module 8 is configured to determine movement of the occupant 10 to the target location 17 via an increase in pressure above a guided movement threshold quantity for more than a guided movement threshold time period in the pressure sensing zone 4a, 4b, 4c, 4d, 4e, 4f, 4g, 4h, 4i corresponding to the target location 17. The control module 8 determines whether the increase in pressure in the plurality of pressure sensing zones 4a, 4b, 4c, 4d, 4e, 4f, 4g, 4h, 4i is above the threshold value in relation to a base pressure. The base pressure is the pressure recorded by the control module 8 when the target location 17 is presented to the occupant 10.

[0089] The occupant 10 may indicate that they wish for a target location 17 to be presented (i.e., to initiate the method of guiding movement) by interacting with a soft- button 18 on the touchscreen 16 to instruct the control module 8 to present the first target location 17. The display screen 15 displays a representation of the seat 19 and the occupant 10. The representation of the seat 19 is divided into a plurality of zones corresponding to each target location 17. When a target location 17 is presented to the occupant 10, it is highlighted on the representation of the seat 19 (shown in figure 7 by the crosshatched section) in a first colour e.g. green, which contrasts the rest of the seat 3 which is presented in a second colour e.g. grey. This gives the occupant 10 a visual indication of where they need to move to reach the target location 17 and trigger positive feedback which is easy to understand and enables the occupant 10 to react to the presentation of a target location in a timely manner.

[0090] As outlined above, the control module 8 determines that the occupant 10 has moved to the target location 17 by detecting an increase in pressure above the guided movement threshold quantity for more than the guided movement threshold time period in the pressure sensing zone corresponding to the target location 17. In this particular example, the guided movement threshold quantity is an increase in pressure greater than 3% in the pressure sensing zone corresponding to the target location 17 (the threshold may alternatively be an absolute pressure value, rather than a percentage, and in some embodiments the threshold may be user-adjustable, e.g. via a settings menu). The control module 8 determines the change in pressure by subtracting a base pressure value recorded in the pressure sensing zone when the target location is presented to the occupant 10 from the instantaneous pressure value, dividing the result by the base pressure value and multiplying by 100. In this particular example, the guided movement threshold time period is 0.1 seconds, such that the occupant must exert a sufficient pressure on the pressure sensing zone corresponding to the target location 17 (i.e. the control module must detect that the instantaneous pressure value remains at least 3% above the base pressure value) for 0.1 seconds to determine that the movement of the occupant 10 was intentional. However, it will be understood that these guided movement values may differ and the control module 8 may also be configurable to adjust these values within its settings.

[0091] If the control module 8 determines movement of an occupant 10 to the target location 17, it provides positive feedback to the occupant 10 via the human machine interface 9. The positive feedback in this example is the presentation of the next target location in a series of target locations 17, as shown in figure 9. Figure 9 shows an extract of four target locations of a series of target locations which are presented sequentially to the seat occupant as part of a continuous loop. Each image (a, b, c, and d) is sequentially presented to the user via the visual display. The target locations 17, indicated in figure 9 by diagonal lines, are highlighted on the display in a in a first colour e.g. green which contrasts the rest of the seat 3 which is shown in a second colour e.g. grey. In this particular sequence, in (a) the target location 17 is provided in the pressure sensing zone 4d in the left-hand wing 14a, detected by a change in the pressure sensing transducer 7 corresponding to the bladder 5 d in the left hand wing 14a, in (b) the target location 17 is provided in the pressure sensing zone 4i in the right hand side bolster 13b, and movement to the target location 17 is detected by a change in the pressure sensing transducer 7 corresponding to the bladder 5i in the right hand side bolster 13b. In part (c) of the sequence, the target location 17 is provided in the pressure sensing zone 4h in the right hand side bolster 13 a, and movement to the target location 17 is detected by a change in the pressure sensing transducer 7 corresponding to the bladder 5h in the right hand side bolster 13 a, and as the target location 17 in part (d) is provided in the same location as in part (c), the sequence is the same and repeats in part (d). Following each determined movement to the target location 17, the next target location in the series is shown, such that the occupant 10 can continue to move and meet new target locations 17 creating a competitive feel. In alternative embodiments, the positive feedback may be the presentation of a particular image or highlighting of the representation of the seat and occupant 19 on the display screen 15 in a third colour such as green, gold or any other colour. This may also be followed by the presentation of a new target location 17 acting as a method of rewarding success which may motivate the occupant to continue, thereby gaining maximum health benefits. In alternative embodiments it should be understood that the human machine interface 9 may not output information via a display screen 15. Instead, the human machine interface 9 may output information by audio guidance. For example, the audio guidance may be provided via a speaker which outputs pre-recorded audible instructions to guide an occupant 10 to a particular target location 17. The plurality of target locations 17 may be named and / or numbered to inform the occupant 10 where to move to.

[0092] With reference again to figures 2-5 and 7, in one embodiment of the invention, the target location 17 is presented to the occupant 10 via the human machine interface 9 when the control module 8 detects that there has been movement below an indication threshold over an indication time period. In this example, the control module 8 is configured to continuously monitor the pressure at each pressure sensing zone and if it has not detected a change (either increase or decrease) in pressure in at least one of the plurality of pressure sensing zones of at least 5% of the resting pressure for 20 minutes. However, it will be understood that other indication thresholds and indication time periods may also be used and may be adjusted within the settings to personalise them to individual occupants 10. Therefore, the control module 8 is able to proactively present target locations 17 to the occupant 10 to encourage them to move and improve their overall health and wellbeing. In one embodiment, the control module 8 is configured such that each time it does detect a change in pressure of at least 5%, it resets the resting pressure value and restarts the timer.

[0093] In some instances, the occupant 10 may be presented with a target location 17 and fail to move to the correct target location 17 within a time-out threshold time period, but rather move to an incorrect location. In such an example, the control module 8 starts a timer when the target location 17 is displayed and determines movement of an occupant 10 to the target location 17 has not been made via an increase in pressure above the guided movement threshold quantity for more than the guided movement threshold time period in the pressure sensing zone 4a, 4b, 4c, 4d, 4e, 4f, 4g, 4h, 4i corresponding to the target location 17 within the time-out time period (for example 15 seconds) following the presentation of a target location 17, accordingly, negative feedback is presented to the occupant 10. The negative feedback in this particular embodiment is providing an indication to the occupant 10 that movement to the target location 17 was not detected in time. The negative feedback is provided via the display screen 15 shown in figure 7 whereby the correct target location 20 is highlighted on the representation of the seat and occupant 19 in a first colour illustrated here with crosshatching on the right-hand side wing 14b. However, in this example, because the occupant 10 failed to move to the correct target location 20 and instead movement to an incorrect target location 21 determined by the control module 8 (in the same manner as detection of movement to the correct target location 20). The control module 8 is configured to control the HMI 9 such that the incorrect target location 21 is also highlighted on the representation of the seat and occupant 19 in a second colour e.g. red, illustrated here with diagonal lines on the left-hand side wing 14a. This acts as a visual indication to the occupant 10 that they have moved to an incorrect target location 21 and failed to meet the correct target location 20 which should appeal to the competitive nature of the occupant 10 to encourage them to try again and repeat the exercise. Additionally or alternatively, the negative feedback may be the control module 8 not presenting a new target location 17 to the occupant 10.

[0094] It will be appreciated that in alternative embodiments whereby the human machine interface 9 outputs information to the occupant via a speaker (not shown) an audio clip may be played to the occupant 10 to alert them to the fact that they failed to meet the target location 17.

[0095] In other instances, the occupant 10 may be presented with a target location 17 and fail to move at all. If the control module 8 does not detect any changes in pressure above the guided movement threshold quantity in the plurality of pressure sensing zones 4a, 4b, 4c, 4d, 4e, 4f, 4g, 4h, 4i after the time-out time period following the presentation of the target location 17, the control module 8 is configured to present negative feedback. In this particular embodiment, the time-out threshold time period is 15 seconds. However, it will be understood that this value may differ in alternative embodiments and the control module 8 may be configured to adjust the value based on user input via the human machine interface 9. The occupant 10 may, in one embodiment, as negative feedback, be presented with a query via the touchscreen 16 to determine whether they would like to stop the presentation of new target locations 17 if they are no longer interested in engaging in the activity. This minimises frustration of the user who may not wish to participate at that time. Additionally or alternatively, the negative feedback may be not presenting a new target location 17 to the occupant 10.

[0096] In this particular embodiment, the control module 8 presents a predefined series of target locations 17 sequentially to the occupant 10 until negative feedback in the form of not presenting a new target location 17 is presented, or the occupant 10 indicates that they would like to stop the presentation of new target locations 17, or the final target location 17 in a set sequence of target locations 17 has been presented. Typically, the predefined series of target locations 17 comprises between eight and sixteen locations 17 although it will be understood that a greater or lesser number may equally be presented to the occupant 10.

[0097] In alternative embodiments, the control module 8 may present a series of target locations sequentially corresponding to a specific stretching sequence. The specific stretching sequence may correspond to a yoga flow whereby the occupant 10 is able to progress through a sequence designed to promote postural movement and relieve muscle soreness and stiffness. It will be understood that there may be a variety of flows to choose from which may each be tailored to promoting movement of specific areas of the body and may require the occupant 10 to remain in particular target locations 17 for particular threshold time periods.

[0098] As shown in figure 7, the control module 8 may be configured to calculate and visually display a cumulative points value 22 via the human machine interface 9. In this particular example the presentation of positive feedback counts for a single points value and the presentation of negative feedback counts for a points value of zero. It will be understood that other values may be assigned such as the presentation of negative feedback having a negative points value. The points value 22 is displayed on the display screen 15. However, in other embodiments the points value may be audibly presented to the occupant 10 via the speaker which may output a pre-recorded points value. Awarding points value 22 is particularly advantageous as it encourages participation as occupants 10 can aim to beat their previous cumulative points value 22, or that of other occupants 10 in the vehicle. With reference now to figure 8, the human machine interface 9 is configured to visually display a real time position of the occupant 10 via the display screen 15. The real time position in this particular embodiment is displayed by a representation of the seat and the position of the occupant within the seat 23 in both a side and a front view. However, it will be noted that a different number of views could equally be used to provide such a representation. Depending on the pressure changes detected by the control module 8 in each of the pressure sensing zones 4a, 4b, 4c, 4d, 4e, 4f, 4g, 4h, 4i, the real time representation 23 may indicate the pressure sensing zones 4 under the greatest pressures by highlighting the corresponding zone. In this way, it is clear to an occupant 10 if their posture is causing a particularly high pressure to be exerted in a pressure sensing zone 4a, 4b, 4c, 4d, 4e, 4f, 4g, 4h, 4i. Having a visual representation 23 means that the occupant 10 can easily see if they need to readjust their position to redistribute areas of particularly high pressure.

[0099] It will also be noted that the control module 8 is shown connected to, but separate from, the HMI 9. However, the control module 8 could be integrated into the HMI 9, for example, housed in the same housing as the display screen 15. In another alternative, the control module 8 could even be arranged partially, or entirely outside the vehicle 1, e.g. its controls could be implemented in software accessed wirelessly from the vehicle 1 as shown in figure 10.

[0100] In such an embodiment, with reference to figure 10, there is provided a remote server 8 (which may for example be implemented in the cloud) having a memory 25 comprising software, which provides instructions to a processor 26 which, when executed, cause an apparatus comprising the processor to perform the method described above, in particular instructing the HMI 9.

[0101] The instructions allow the server 8 to provide services to the human machine interface 9, including transmitting data from a storage device 27 (which contains pressure sensing zone information) to the human machine interface 9, and processing the information and sending the results of the processing calculations to the human machine interface 9. The human machine interface 9 includes a processing resource comprising a processor 28 coupled to an input device 29, a display screen 15 and a speaker 30. The processor is also connected to a memory 31 having software stored thereon.

[0102] The human machine interface 9 is also connected to a control module 8 which is in communication with the seat 3. The control module 8 is also programmed to interrogate the seat 3 to obtain data from the plurality of pressure sensing zones 4 within the seat 3 such that the position of an occupant 10 may be monitored.

[0103] The one or more embodiments are described above by way of example only. Many variations are possible without departing from the scope of protection afforded by the appended claims.

Claims

CLAIMS1. An apparatus for guiding movement of a vehicle occupant comprising: a seat having a plurality of pressure sensing zones; the plurality of pressure sensing zones each comprising at least one bladder in communication with a corresponding pressure sensing transducer; a control module in communication with the or each pressure sensing transducer, configured to detect pressure changes in the pressure sensing zones and to cause inflation or deflation of at least one bladder; a human machine interface (HMI) in communication with the control module; wherein the apparatus is configured to guide movement of an occupant in the seat via the HMI and to detect whether occupant movement corresponds to the guidance based on detected changes in the pressure sensing zones.

2. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein each pressure sensing zone comprises at least one bladder.

3. The apparatus of claims 1 or 2 wherein the or each bladder is an air bladder.

4. The apparatus of claim 3 wherein the or each bladder is pre-charged with an initial fill of air.

5. The apparatus of claim 3 or 4 wherein the or each bladder may be inflated and / or deflated individually and / or simultaneously.

6. The apparatus of any preceding claim further comprising a pressure sensing valve block.

7. The apparatus of claim 6 wherein the pressure sensing valve block comprises one pressure sensing transducer per bladder and the or each bladder is in communication with a unique corresponding pressure sensing transducer.

8. The apparatus of any preceding claim wherein the control module is configured to calculate relative movement of the seat occupant based upon the detected changes in the pressure sensing zones.

9. The apparatus of any preceding claim wherein the control module is configured to detect the position of the seat occupant based upon the detected changes in the pressure sensing zones.

10. The apparatus of any preceding claim wherein the control module is configured to cause inflation and / or deflation of at least one bladder in response to user input via the HMI.

11. The apparatus of any preceding claim wherein the control module is operable to initiate at least one massage sequence.

12. The apparatus of claim 11 wherein the at least one massage sequence causes a predefined series of inflation and / or deflation of each bladder either alone or simultaneously with one or more other bladders.

13. The apparatus of claims 11 or 12 wherein the at least one massage sequence comprises gradual inflation of at least one bladder over a predefined period of time followed by deflation of the at least one bladder over a predefined period of time.

14. The apparatus of any preceding claim wherein the control module is configured to guide movement of an occupant by presenting a target location to the occupant via the human machine interface.

15. The apparatus of claim 14 wherein the target location corresponds to one of the plurality of pressure sensing zones.

16. The apparatus of claims 14 or 15 wherein the control module determines movement of an occupant to the target location when an increase in pressure above a guided movement threshold quantity for more than a guided movement threshold time period is detected in the pressure sensing zone corresponding to the target location and subsequently provides positive feedback via the human machine interface.

17. The apparatus of claim 16 wherein the positive feedback is the presentation of a new target location.

18. The apparatus of any of claims 16 or 17 wherein if the control module does not detect any change in pressure above the guided movement threshold quantity in the plurality of pressure sensing zones after a time-out threshold time period following the presentation of the target location and subsequently provides negative feedback via the human machine interface.

19. The apparatus of claim 18 wherein if the control module only detects changes in pressure above the guided movement threshold quantity in the plurality of pressure sensing zones not corresponding to the target location after the timeout threshold time period following the presentation of a target location, it is configured to present negative feedback via the human machine interface.

20. The apparatus of claims 18 or 19 wherein the negative feedback is at least one of not presenting a new target location and presenting a query via the touchscreen to determine whether the occupant would like to stop the presentation of new targets.

21. The apparatus of any of claims 14-20 wherein the control module presents a series of target locations sequentially to the seat occupant.

22. The apparatus of any preceding claim wherein the human machine interface visually displays information to the occupant via a display screen.

23. The apparatus of claim 22 wherein the human machine interface is configured to display a real time position of the vehicle occupant via the display screen displaying a representation of the seat and the real time position of the vehicle occupant.

24. The apparatus of any preceding claim wherein the human machine interface outputs information to the occupant by at least one of audio guidance via a speaker or tactile feedback.

25. A vehicle comprising the apparatus of any preceding claim.

26. A computer implemented method for selectively carrying out each of the following methods:(a) causing inflation and / or deflation of at least one bladder provided in each of a plurality of pressure sensing zones of a vehicle seat; and(b) guiding movement of a vehicle occupant in the seat via a HMI and detecting whether occupant movement corresponds to the guidance based on detected changes in the pressure sensing zones.

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