JP7716007B2 - Seat systems and vehicles - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a seat system including a seat and a vehicle including the seat system.

Conventionally, there is known technology that moves the user's seat in accordance with the movement of a character placed in an augmented reality space that moves the user's seat closer (see Patent Document 1).

Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2020-042334

However, with conventional technology, the entire seat simply moves in accordance with the character's movements, making it difficult for the user to sense the character's presence.

Therefore, the present invention aims to make it easier for users to sense the presence of characters.

In order to solve the above problem, the seat system of the present invention comprises a seat on which a user can sit, an electric device that moves a specific part of the seat, a control unit that controls the electric device, and a display unit.
The control unit can display a sheet image simulating a sheet and a character image on the display unit. The control unit displays a video in which the character image takes action on a part of the sheet image corresponding to a predetermined part, and executes an image sheet linkage process in which an electric device moves the predetermined part in accordance with the action of the character image.

With this configuration, when the character image takes action on a part of the seat image, that part of the seat moves due to the electric device, making it easier for the user to sense the character's presence. Specifically, for example, when the character presses on a part of the seat image, the electric device presses on a part of the seat, allowing the user to feel as if the character is pressing on the user through the seat, allowing them to interact with the character through the seat.

The character image may also be an image resembling an animal.

This allows users to interact with the animal through the seat, providing a soothing effect. Furthermore, if the animal is smaller than the seat, an electrically operated device can be used to move a portion of the seat, allowing the user to sense the presence of the animal near the portion of the seat that has moved.

The seat may also include a seat cushion and a seat back as a predetermined portion, the electric device may be an electric reclining mechanism that tilts the seat back, and the control unit may tilt the seat back backward using the electric reclining mechanism in accordance with the character image tilting backward the portion of the seat image corresponding to the seat back.

The seat may also include a seat cushion and a seat back, the predetermined portion being at least a portion of the seat surface of the seat cushion, the electric device being a device that moves the predetermined portion upward, and the control unit may cause the electric device to move the predetermined portion upward in synchronization with the character image pushing up the portion of the seat image that corresponds to the predetermined portion.

The specified portion may be part of the seat surface of the seat, the electric device may be a device that moves the specified portion between a first position and a second position that protrudes further toward the user than the first position, and the control unit may cause the electric device to move the specified portion back and forth between the first position and the second position in accordance with the character image repeatedly moving the portion of the seat image that corresponds to the specified portion.

The seat may also be equipped with a heater, and the control unit may display a character image at a position on the seat image corresponding to the heater and activate the heater.

By using a heater to heat a portion of the sheet that corresponds to the position where the character image is located on the sheet image, the user can feel the character's body temperature through the sheet.

The control unit may also execute image sheet linkage processing when an operation command to operate an electric device is input.

The control unit may also execute the image sheet linkage process when no operation command to operate the electric device is input and a condition other than the operation command is satisfied.

A vehicle according to the present invention includes the seat system and a driving condition detection unit that detects a driving condition of the vehicle.
The control unit acquires the driving state from the driving state detection unit, and restricts the movement of the electric device based on the acquired driving state.

With this, the control unit limits the movement of the electric device based on the vehicle's driving conditions, so that in driving conditions where moving the electric device would cause discomfort to the user, such as when driving around a curve, the movement of the electric device can be limited, thereby increasing comfort.

The vehicle may also be equipped with a road condition detection unit that detects road conditions, and the control unit may limit the movement of the electric device based on the road conditions.

With this, the control unit limits the movement of the electric device based on road conditions, so that when the road conditions make moving the electric device uncomfortable for the user, such as when the vehicle is stopped on a slope, the movement of the electric device can be limited, increasing comfort.

According to the present invention, when a character image takes action on a part of the sheet image, that part of the sheet moves using an electric device, making it easier for the user to sense the presence of the character.

Furthermore, by using an image of an animal as the character image, the user can interact with the animal through the seat, which has a soothing effect. Furthermore, if the animal is smaller than the seat, an electric device can be used to move part of the seat, allowing the user to feel the presence of the animal near the part of the seat that has moved.

The control unit also displays a character image at a position on the seat image corresponding to the heater and activates the heater, allowing the user to feel the character's body temperature through the seat.

In addition, the control unit can increase comfort by limiting the movement of the electric device based on the vehicle's driving conditions.

In addition, the control unit can increase comfort by limiting the movement of the electric device based on road conditions.

1 is a diagram showing a seat system according to a first embodiment; 10A and 10B are cross-sectional views showing the movement of an air cell disposed in a seat cushion. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the relationship between a control unit, an electric device, and the like. 10 is a flowchart showing the operation of a control unit. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a home screen of a cat mode. 10A shows a cat on the screen reclining the seat back, and FIG. 10B shows the movement of the seat in accordance with the image. 10A shows the cat on the screen moving the seat back, and FIG. 10B shows the seat moving in sync with the image. 10A shows a cat on the screen crawling under a sheet, and FIG. 10B shows the sheet moving in sync with the image. 1A shows an image of a cat relaxing on a seat on a screen, and FIG. 1B shows the movement of the seat in accordance with the image. 1A shows a cat on the screen scratching a sheet, and FIG. 1B shows the sheet moving in sync with the image. 10A shows the cat on the screen going for a walk, and FIG. 10B shows the movement of the sheet in accordance with the image. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a vehicle equipped with a seat system according to a second embodiment. 10 is a flowchart illustrating an operation of a control unit in the second embodiment. 10A and 10B are diagrams showing a specific example of image-sheet linked processing in a sheet system having a plurality of sheets. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a modified example of the seat system.

[First embodiment]
A first embodiment of a seat system will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.
1, the seat system 1 includes a seat 10 on which a user can sit, a monitor M as an example of a display unit, and a control unit 100. The seat 10 includes a seat cushion 11, a seat back 12, and a headrest 13. The seat cushion 11, the seat back 12, and the headrest 13 each constitute a seat body having a seat surface F that can come into contact with the user.

The seat cushion 11 has a base portion 11A located in the left-right center and protruding portions 11B located on both the left and right sides of the base portion 11A. The base portion 11A contacts and supports the user's buttocks and thighs from below. The protruding portions 11B protrude from the base portion 11A toward the user to support the sides of the user's thighs and buttocks.

Similarly, the seat back 12 has a base portion 12A located in the center of the seat, and protruding portions 12B located on both the left and right sides of the base portion 12A. The base portion 12A comes into contact with the user's back and supports it from behind. The protruding portions 12B protrude toward the user to support the sides of the user's upper body.

As shown in FIG. 2, the seat cushion 11 includes a frame FL, a pad P, and a cover SK. The frame FL is made of metal or other material and supports the pad P. The pad P is made of a cushioning material such as urethane foam. The cover SK is made of synthetic leather, fabric, or other material and covers the pad P. Similarly, the seat back 12 and headrest 13 also include a frame, pad, and cover.

Returning to FIG. 1, the seat 10 further includes an electric reclining mechanism 21, multiple air cells 22, multiple vibration devices 23, an electric slide mechanism 30, multiple heaters 41-44, and multiple speakers 50. The electric reclining mechanism 21, air cells 22, vibration device 23, electric slide mechanism 30, heaters 41-44, and multiple speakers 50 are electric devices that operate when electricity is applied. Of these electric devices, the electric reclining mechanism 21, air cells 22, and vibration device 23 are electric devices that move only a portion of the seat 10. In other words, the electric reclining mechanism 21, air cells 22, and vibration device 23 move a portion of the seat 10.

The electric reclining mechanism 21 is a mechanism that tilts the seat back 12. The electric reclining mechanism 21 is equipped with a motor that is activated when electricity is applied.

The air cell 22 includes an inflatable/deflateable bag 22A, a pump, and a tube (not shown). The pump pumps air into and out of the bag 22A and is activated by electricity. The tube connects the bag 22A to the pump.

As shown in FIG. 2, the bag 22A is embedded in the pad. The pump is fixed to the frame of the seat 10, for example. The bag 22A is capable of moving a portion of the seat surface F of the seat 10 between a first position shown in FIG. 2(a) and a second position shown in FIG. 2(b). Here, the second position is a position that protrudes further toward the user than the first position.

Returning to Figure 1, the seat cushion 11 has multiple bags 22A. Multiple bags 22A, for example, two, are arranged on the base portion 11A of the seat cushion 11. One bag 22A is arranged on each of the left and right protruding portions 11B of the seat cushion 11.

The seat back 12 has multiple bags 22A. Multiple bags 22A, for example, four, are arranged on the base portion 12A of the seat back 12. One bag 22A is arranged on each of the left and right protrusion portions 12B of the seat back 12.

The vibration device 23 is a device that vibrates when electricity is applied. Multiple vibration devices 23, for example, four, are provided on the base portion 12A of the seat back 12. The vibration devices 23 are, for example, embedded in a pad.

The electric slide mechanism 30 is a mechanism that slides the seat 10 in the fore-and-aft direction. Here, the seat 10 is supported on slide rails (not shown) so that it can move in the fore-and-aft direction. The electric slide mechanism 30 is equipped with a motor that is activated by electricity.

The heaters 41 to 44 are planar heating elements that generate heat when electricity is applied. The heaters 41 to 44 are arranged between the cover and the pad (see Figure 2). The heater 41 is provided on the base portion 11A of the seat cushion 11. The heater 42 is provided on each of the left and right protrusions 11B of the seat cushion 11.

The heater 43 is provided in the base portion 12A of the seat back 12. The heaters 44 are provided in the left and right protrusion portions 12B of the seat back 12, one each.

The speakers 50 are devices that generate sound when electricity is applied. One speaker 50 is provided on each side of the upper part of the seat back 12. One speaker 50 is provided on each side of the headrest 13. The speakers 50 are embedded in padding, for example.

The seat 10 further includes a reclining switch 61, a slide switch 62, and a mode selector switch 63.

The reclining switch 61 is an operating unit for operating the electric reclining mechanism 21. The reclining switch 61 can be tilted, for example, in the forward and backward directions. When tilted forward, the reclining switch 61 outputs a forward tilt command to the control unit 100 to tilt the seat back 12 forward. When tilted rearward, the reclining switch 61 outputs a rearward tilt command to the control unit 100 to tilt the seat back 12 rearward.

The slide switch 62 is an operating unit for operating the electric slide mechanism 30. The slide switch 62 is slidable, for example, in the forward and backward directions. When the slide switch 62 is slid forward, it outputs a forward movement command to the control unit 100 to move the seat 10 forward. When the slide switch 62 is slid rearward, it outputs a backward movement command to the control unit 100 to move the seat 10 rearward.

The mode selector switch 63 is a switch for switching the mode of the control unit 100 between a first mode and a second mode. Here, the first mode is a mode that prohibits the second control described below. The second mode is a mode that allows the second control. The mode selector switch 63 is, for example, a push-button switch. Each time the user presses the mode selector switch 63, it alternates between the ON state and the OFF state.

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

As shown in FIG. 3, the control unit 100 is connected to the monitor M, various switches (61-63), and various electrically powered devices (21-23, 30, 41-44, 50). The control unit 100 is capable of individually operating each of the multiple heaters 41-44, and is also capable of individually operating each of the multiple air cells 22, the multiple vibration devices 23, and the multiple speakers 50. The control unit 100 has the function of selecting and executing first control, second control, and third control.

The first control is a control that, when an operation command is received from the operation unit, places the electric device in a first operating state corresponding to the operation command. In other words, the first control is a control that operates the electric device in the operating state intended by the user.

Specifically, when the control unit 100 executes the first control based on a command from the reclining switch 61, if the command is a forward tilt command, it operates the electric reclining mechanism 21 to tilt the seat back 12 forward, and if the command is a rearward tilt command, it operates the electric reclining mechanism 21 to tilt the seat back 12 rearward. Furthermore, when the control unit 100 executes the first control based on a command from the slide switch 62, if the command is a forward tilt command, it operates the electric slide mechanism 30 to move the seat 10 forward, and if the command is a rearward tilt command, it operates the electric slide mechanism 30 to move the seat 10 backward.

The second control is a control that, when an operation command is received from the operation unit, places the electric device in a second operating state that does not correspond to the operation command. In other words, the second control is a control that operates the electric device in an operating state that is contrary to the user's intention.

Specifically, when the control unit 100 executes the second control based on a command from the reclining switch 61, if the command is a forward tilt command, it operates the electric reclining mechanism 21 to tilt the seat back 12 backward, and if the command is a backward tilt command, it operates the electric reclining mechanism 21 to tilt the seat back 12 forward. Furthermore, when the control unit 100 executes the second control based on a command from the slide switch 62, if the command is a forward command, it operates the electric slide mechanism 30 to move the seat 10 backward, and if the command is a backward command, it operates the electric slide mechanism 30 to move the seat 10 forward. In other words, in the second control, the control unit 100 controls the electric device to perform the opposite operation to that of the operation command.

Here, the seat back 12 and the seat 10 correspond to a movable part that is at least a part of the seat 10. The electric reclining mechanism 21 and the electric sliding mechanism 30 correspond to a mechanism that moves the movable part between a first position and a second position. For example, a forward tilt command and a forward movement command correspond to commands to move the movable part from the first position toward the second position. When executing the first control, the control unit 100 moves the movable part from the first position toward the second position, and when executing the second control, it moves the movable part from the second position toward the first position.

The third control is a control that does not operate the electric device when an operation command is received from the operation unit. In other words, the third control is a control that does not operate the electric device against the user's intention.

Specifically, when the control unit 100 executes the third control, it does not operate the electric reclining mechanism 21 even when it receives a command from the reclining switch 61. Furthermore, when the control unit 100 executes the third control, it does not operate the electric slide mechanism 30 even when it receives a command from the slide switch 62.

The control unit 100 can be switched between a first mode and a second mode using the mode switch 63. The first mode is a mode in which the electric device operates in response to an action intended by the user. In the following description, the first mode is also referred to as the "normal mode."

The second mode is a mode in which you can interact with a cat displayed on the screen M1 of the monitor M shown in Figure 5 via the seat 10. In the following description, the second mode will also be referred to as the "cat mode."

In cat mode, the control unit 100 controls various electric devices in response to actions taken by the cat displayed on the screen M1 of the monitor M with respect to the seat. In cat mode, the electric devices may operate in accordance with the user's intended actions, operate in accordance with actions contrary to the user's intended actions, or not operate in accordance with the user's intended actions.

When the mode selector switch 63 is OFF, the control unit 100 is in normal mode. When the mode selector switch 63 is ON, the control unit 100 is in cat mode.

When the control unit 100 is in normal mode and an operation command is input, it executes only the first control. When the control unit 100 is in cat mode and an operation command is input, it randomly selects and executes the first, second, and third controls. Note that the probability of each control being selected may be the same or different. For example, the probability of the first control being selected may be higher than the probability of the second and third controls being selected.

In cat mode, the control unit 100 displays a sheet image G1 that resembles a sheet 10 and a character image G2 that resembles a cat on the screen M1 of the monitor M. In cat mode, the control unit 100 displays a video on the screen M1 in which the character image G2 performs an action on the sheet image G1, and executes an image sheet linkage process in which the electric device moves at least a portion of the sheet 10 in accordance with the action of the character image G2. Here, the timing at which the video starts to play and the timing at which the electric device starts to operate may be simultaneous, or one may start first.

In cat mode, when an operation command to operate an electric device is input, the control unit 100 selects the first, second, or third control and executes the image sheet linkage process. In more detail, the control unit 100 moves the character image G2 in accordance with the state of the electric device corresponding to the selected control.

In cat mode, the control unit 100 also executes the image sheet linkage process when no operation command to operate an electric device is input and a condition other than the operation command is met. In this embodiment, the other condition is "no operation command is input for a predetermined time." In the image sheet linkage process that is executed when no operation command is input, the control unit 100 randomly selects a video (image) to display on screen M1 and activates the corresponding electric device in accordance with the selected video. Note that the control unit 100 may also randomly select an electric device to operate and display a video corresponding to the movement of the selected electric device on screen M1.

A specific example of the image sheet linked processing will be described below.
6A and 6B, when the seat back 12 is to be tilted backward, the control unit 100 displays on the screen M1 a video in which a character image G2 performs an action on a portion of the seat image G1 corresponding to the seat back 12, and tilts the seat back 12 backward using the electric reclining mechanism 21 in accordance with the action of the character image G2. In this embodiment, the control unit 100 displays on the screen M1 a video in which a cat hangs near the seat back of the seat image G1, and the seat back portion of the seat image G1 gradually tilts backward. The control unit 100 also displays on the screen M1 an image of text such as "Tilt the seat back, meow," which indicates the cat's action.

The control unit 100 may also output the content displayed in the text image as audio using the speaker 50. In this case, it is recommended that the audio be output from the speaker 50 closest to the position of the cat's mouth on the screen M1, for example, the speaker 50 in the headrest 13.

The control unit 100 tilts the actual seat back 12 backward using the electric reclining mechanism 21 in accordance with the character image G2 tilting the seat back portion of the seat image G1 backward. In other words, the control unit 100 activates the electric reclining mechanism 21 in accordance with the movement of the seat back portion of the seat image G1, which is tilted backward due to the cat hanging down, and gradually tilts the actual seat back 12 backward.

When tilting the seat back 12 forward, for example, a video of a cat pushing the seat back forward may be displayed on screen M1, or a video of a cat pulling the upper part of the seat back from the front using a rope or the like may be displayed on screen M1. When tilting the seat back 12 forward, the control unit 100 also gradually tilts the actual seat back 12 forward in accordance with the movements of the cat and the seat back on screen M1.

As shown in Figures 7(a) and (b), when sliding the seat 10 rearward, the control unit 100 displays on screen M1 a video of the cat pushing the seat from the front, causing the cat and the seat to move rearward, and causes the seat 10 to move rearward using the electric sliding mechanism 30 in accordance with the movement of the cat and the seat. The control unit 100 also displays on screen M1 an image of text such as "Move the seat back, meow," which indicates the cat's movements. Note that in this case, as before, the content of the text image may also be output as audio from the speaker 50.

When sliding the seat 10 forward, for example, a video of a cat pushing the seat forward may be displayed on screen M1, or a video of a cat pulling the seat from the front using a rope or the like may be displayed on screen M1. Even when sliding the seat 10 forward, the control unit 100 gradually moves the actual seat 10 forward in accordance with the movements of the cat and the seat on screen M1.

As shown in Figures 8(a) and (b), when the control unit 100 displays a video of a cat crawling under the seat cushion on the screen M1, it activates the air cells 22 arranged on the base portion 11A of the seat cushion 11 in time with the character image G2 pushing up the seat cushion portion of the seat image G1, thereby moving a portion of the seat surface F of the base portion 11A upward. Note that it is sufficient that at least one of the two air cells 22 on the left and right sides be activated. The control unit 100 also displays an image of text on the screen M1, such as "Meow crawling under the seat," which indicates the cat's actions. Note that in this case, the content of the text image may also be output as audio from the speaker 50, as described above.

As shown in Figures 9(a) and (b), when the control unit 100 displays on the screen M1 a video of a cat relaxing on the protruding portion of the seat cushion, the control unit 100 expands and contracts the air cells 22 arranged on the protruding portion 11B of the seat cushion 11 in accordance with the character image G2 repeatedly moving a part of the protruding portion of the seat image G1 by expanding and contracting its body through breathing. As a result, the air cells 22 move a part of the seat surface F of the protruding portion 11B of the seat cushion 11 back and forth between the first position and the second position.

Furthermore, when displaying on screen M1 a video of a cat relaxing on the protruding portion of the seat cushion, control unit 100 activates heater 42 arranged on protruding portion 11B. In other words, control unit 100 displays character image G2 in a position on seat image G1 corresponding to heater 42 and air cell 22, and activates heater 42 and air cell 22. It is preferable that the temperature of heater 42 be set to a temperature equivalent to the body temperature of the cat.

The control unit 100 also displays an image of text such as "Relaxing Meow" on the screen M1, which indicates the cat's state. Note that in this case, as before, the content of the text image may also be output as audio from the speaker 50.

In actuality, the sheet 10 has protruding portions 11B on the left and right, so if the sheet displayed on screen M1 is an image viewed from the side, it is sufficient to activate the air cell 22 and heater 42 provided on at least one of the two protruding portions 11B. Furthermore, if the sheet on the screen is a three-dimensional image viewed from an angle or an image viewed from the front, it is sufficient to activate the air cell 22 and heater 42 provided on the protruding portion 11B on the left or right where the cat is located.

As shown in Figures 10(a) and 10(b), when the control unit 100 displays a video of a cat scratching the seatback on screen M1, it activates the vibration device 23 and speaker 50 in the seatback 12 in time with the movement of the cat's front paws. Specifically, when the cat on screen M1 is scratching the seatback with its left front paw, the control unit 100 vibrates the left vibration device 23 and outputs the sound of scratching the seat from the left speaker 50. When the cat on screen M1 is scratching the seatback with its right front paw, the control unit 100 vibrates the right vibration device 23 and outputs the sound of scratching the seat from the right speaker 50.

Since there are two vibration devices 23 on the left side and two on the right side, the control unit 100 only needs to activate at least one vibration device 23 on the left side and at least one vibration device 23 on the right side.

When displaying a video of a cat going for a walk on screen M1, the control unit 100 moves the character image G2 away from the seat image G1 and does not operate the electric device for moving part of the seat 10. The control unit 100 also displays an image of text such as "Going for a walk, meow" on screen M1, which shows the cat's movements. Note that in this case, as before, the content of the text image may also be output as audio from the speaker 50.

Next, the operation of the control unit 100 will be described in detail.
The control unit 100 repeatedly executes the process shown in Fig. 4. In the process shown in Fig. 4, the control unit 100 first determines whether the mode changeover switch 63 is ON (S1). If it is determined in step S1 that the mode changeover switch 63 is not ON (No), the control unit 100 sets the mode to the first mode, i.e., the normal mode (S2), and ends this process. Note that if an operation command is input in the normal mode, the control unit 100 executes only the first control.

If it is determined in step S1 that the mode switch 63 is ON (Yes), the control unit 100 switches the mode to the second mode, i.e., cat mode (S3), and displays the home screen shown in FIG. 5 on screen M1 (S4). After step S4, the control unit 100 determines whether the mode switch 63 is ON (S13).

If it is determined in step S13 that the mode selector switch 63 is ON (Yes), the control unit 100 determines whether the reclining switch 61 has been operated (S5). If it is determined in step S13 that the mode selector switch 63 is not ON (No), the control unit 100 ends this processing.

If it is determined in step S5 that the reclining switch 61 has been operated (Yes), the control unit 100 randomly selects one control from the first, second, and third controls corresponding to the operation command from the reclining switch 61 (S6). After step S6, the control unit 100 executes the selected control and displays an image corresponding to the executed control on screen M1 (S7), and then ends this processing.

Specifically, for example, if the operation command from the reclining switch 61 is a rearward tilt command and the first control is selected, the control unit 100 displays the video shown in FIG. 6(a) on screen M1 and tilts the seat back 12 backward using the electric reclining mechanism 21. Also, for example, if the operation command from the reclining switch 61 is a forward tilt command and the second control is selected, the control unit 100 displays the video shown in FIG. 6(a) on screen M1 and tilts the seat back 12 backward using the electric reclining mechanism 21. Also, for example, if the third control is selected, the control unit 100 displays the video shown in FIG. 11(a) on screen M1 and does not operate the electric reclining mechanism 21.

If the determination in step S5 is No, the control unit 100 determines whether the slide switch 62 has been operated (S8). If the determination in step S8 is Yes, the control unit 100 randomly selects one control from the first, second, and third controls corresponding to the operation command from the slide switch 62 (S9). After step S9, the control unit 100 executes the selected control and displays an image corresponding to the executed control on the screen M1 (S7), and ends this processing.

Specifically, for example, if the operation command from the slide switch 62 is a reverse command and the first control is selected, the control unit 100 displays the video shown in FIG. 7(a) on screen M1 and moves the seat 10 backward using the electric slide mechanism 30. Also, for example, if the operation command from the slide switch 62 is a forward command and the second control is selected, the control unit 100 displays the video shown in FIG. 7(a) on screen M1 and moves the seat 10 backward using the electric slide mechanism 30. Also, for example, if the third control is selected, the control unit 100 displays the video shown in FIG. 11(a) on screen M1 and does not operate the electric slide mechanism 30.

If step S8 returns No, the control unit 100 determines whether a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of the second mode or the last time the operation units (61, 62) were operated (S10). If step S10 determines that the predetermined time has not elapsed (No), the control unit 100 returns to step S5.

If it is determined in step S10 that the predetermined time has elapsed (Yes), the control unit 100 randomly selects an image to display from the images shown in Figures 6 to 11 and displays it on screen M1 (S11). After step S11, the control unit 100 controls the electric device in accordance with the selected image (S12) and ends this process.

Next, a specific example of the operation of the control unit 100 will be described.
1, in the normal mode, when a user seated in the seat 10 tilts the reclining switch 61 rearward, the control unit 100 executes the first control, causing the seat back 12 to tilt rearward as intended by the user. Also, when the user slides the slide switch 62 rearward, the control unit 100 executes the first control, causing the seat 10 to move rearward as intended by the user.

When the user presses the mode selector switch 63 to turn it ON, the control unit 100 switches to cat mode. In cat mode, the control unit 100 first displays the home screen shown in FIG. 5(a) on screen M1. In cat mode, if the user tilts the reclining switch 61 backward and a backward tilt command is output from the reclining switch 61, and the control unit 100 selects the first control, the control unit 100 displays the image shown in FIG. 6(a) on screen M1 and tilts the seat back 12 backward as intended by the user. At this time, by looking at screen M1, the user can recognize that the cat is helping them with their operations, which can lead to an attachment to the cat.

Furthermore, in cat mode, if the user tilts the reclining switch 61 forward and a forward tilt command is output from the reclining switch 61, and the control unit 100 selects the second control, the control unit 100 displays the image shown in FIG. 6(a) on screen M1 and tilts the seat back 12 backward against the user's intention. At this time, the user is surprised that the opposite action to their own operation is being performed, but because the action of the cat tilting the seat back backward is displayed on screen M1, the user realizes that it is the cat's doing and is comforted by the cat's selfishness that refuses to listen.

Furthermore, in cat mode, if the user operates the reclining switch 61 and the control unit 100 selects the third control, the control unit 100 displays the image shown in FIG. 11(a) on screen M1 and does not move the seat back 12. At this time, the user is surprised that the seat back 12 does not move even when the reclining switch 61 is operated, but the video of the cat going for a walk is displayed on screen M1, and the user is soothed by the cat's whimsical behavior.

Furthermore, in cat mode, if the user does not operate the operation unit for a predetermined period of time, the control unit 100 randomly selects an image to display from the images shown in Figures 6 to 11 and controls the electric device according to the selected image. If the image of Figure 6, 7, or 10 is selected, the user may be surprised by the entire seat 10 or seat back 12 moving on its own, or by sudden vibrations and scratching sounds. However, by looking at screen M1, the user can see that the cause is the cat's mischief, and can be comforted by the mischievous behavior of the cat.

When the image in Figure 8 or Figure 9 is selected, the user can feel the presence of the cat through the seat 10, for example, by the movement of the air cells 22, and this can help the user to feel attached to the cat.

After executing the first control, second control, or third control, the control unit 100 returns the display of screen M1 to the home screen (S1: Yes → S3 → S4). When the home screen is displayed on screen M1, if the user turns the mode switch 63 OFF to end cat mode, the control unit 100 changes the mode to normal mode (S13: No → S1: No → S2). Note that when the mode switch 63 is switched from ON to OFF, the control unit 100 erases the cat mode image displayed on screen M1.

As described above, according to this embodiment, the following effects can be obtained.
When the character image G2 on the screen M1 takes action on a part of the seat image G1, a part of the actual seat 10 moves due to the electric device, making it easier for the user to feel the presence of the cat. Specifically, for example, when the cat presses a part of the seat, the electric device presses a part of the actual seat 10, so that the user can feel as if the cat is pushing the user through the seat 10, and can thus interact with the cat through the seat 10.

By using a cat-like image for the character image G2, the user can interact with the cat through the seat 10, providing a soothing effect. Furthermore, by moving a portion of the seat 10 with an electric device, the user can sense the presence of a cat near the portion of the seat 10 that has moved.

By using the heater 42 to heat a portion of the sheet 10 that corresponds to the position of the character image G2 on the sheet image G1, the user can feel the cat's body temperature through the sheet 10.

When the control unit 100 executes the second or third control, when the user operates the operation unit, the electric device enters an operating state that the user does not intend, thereby enhancing the entertainment value.

When the second control is executed, the seat back 12 or the seat 10 moves in the opposite direction to when the first control is executed, which can enhance entertainment value.

A mode selector switch 63 is provided to switch between prohibiting and allowing second control, allowing the user to switch between prohibiting and allowing second control at will.

In cat mode, one control is selected from the first, second, and third controls, which increases the entertainment value since the user does not know when the second control will be executed.

When the second control is selected in cat mode, the cat's movements on screen M1 let the user know through screen M1 that the electric device is operating in an unintended state, which can provide comfort to the user.

When the first control is selected in cat mode, the cat will move the seat as the user intends, providing comfort to the user.

Second Embodiment
Next, a second embodiment of the seat system according to the present invention will be described. Note that since this embodiment is a slight modification of the processing of the control unit 100 according to the first embodiment, 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.

As shown in FIG. 12 , in the second embodiment, the seat system 1 is provided in a vehicle 70. In addition to the seat system 1, the vehicle 70 also includes a camera 71 as an example of a driving condition detection unit, and an acceleration sensor 72 as an example of a road condition detection unit.

The driving condition detection unit may be, for example, a steering angle detection sensor, an accelerator sensor, or a brake sensor. The road condition detection unit may be a device that acquires map information from a navigation system.

Camera 71 has the function of detecting the driving state of vehicle 70. Specifically, in this embodiment, camera 71 detects that vehicle 70 is driving around a curve.

The acceleration sensor 72 has the function of detecting road conditions. Specifically, in this embodiment, the acceleration sensor 72 detects that the road on which the vehicle 70 is traveling or stopped is a slope.

The control unit 100 acquires information from the camera 71 and the acceleration sensor 72. The control unit 100 restricts the movement of the electric device based on the driving state acquired from the camera 71 or the road conditions acquired from the acceleration sensor 72. Specifically, the control unit 100 prohibits the operation of the electric device if it determines that the vehicle 70 is traveling around a curve or that the road is on a slope.

In detail, the control unit 100 executes the process shown in Figure 13. The process in Figure 13 adds new steps S31 to S36 to the process in Figure 4.

If the control unit 100 determines in step S5 that the reclining switch 61 has been operated (Yes), it determines whether the vehicle 70 is traveling around a curve or on a slope based on information from the camera 71 or acceleration sensor 72 (S31). If it determines in step S31 that the vehicle 70 is traveling around a curve or on a slope (Yes), the control unit 100 selects the third control (S32) and prohibits operation of the electric reclining mechanism 21. After step S32, the control unit 100 proceeds to step S7, executes the third control, and displays an image corresponding to the third control on the screen M1.

If it is determined in step S31 that the vehicle is not traveling around a curve and is not on a slope (No), the control unit 100 proceeds to step S6 and randomly selects the first control, second control, or third control.

If the control unit 100 determines in step S8 that the slide switch 62 has been operated (Yes), it determines whether the vehicle 70 is traveling around a curve or on a slope based on information from the camera 71 or acceleration sensor 72 (S33). If it determines in step S33 that the vehicle 70 is traveling around a curve or on a slope (Yes), the control unit 100 selects the third control (S32) and prohibits operation of the electric slide mechanism 30.

If it is determined in step S33 that the vehicle is not traveling around a curve and is not on a slope (No), the control unit 100 proceeds to step S9 and randomly selects the first control, second control, or third control.

If the control unit 100 determines in step S10 that the predetermined time has elapsed (Yes), it determines whether the vehicle 70 is traveling around a curve or on a slope based on information from the camera 71 or acceleration sensor 72 (S34). If it determines in step S34 that the vehicle 70 is traveling around a curve or on a slope (Yes), the control unit 100 selects an image corresponding to the third control (S35). After step S35, the control unit 100 executes the third control (S36) and ends this process.

As described above, the second embodiment can provide the following effects.
Since the operation of the electric device is prohibited when the vehicle 70 is traveling around a curve, it is possible to suppress movements that make the user feel uncomfortable, such as the seat back 12 accidentally tilting backward while traveling around a curve, thereby improving comfort.

When the vehicle 70 is located on a slope, operation of the electric device is prohibited, which prevents movements that the user may find uncomfortable, such as the seat back 12 accidentally tilting backward while driving uphill, thereby improving comfort.

The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment and can be used in various forms, as exemplified below.

As shown in FIG. 14(b), the seat system 2 may include multiple seats 10. In this case, the control unit 100 may select a video of a cat jumping from the front seat to the rear seat, as shown in FIG. 14(a), in step S11 and display it on the screen M1.

When the image in Figure 14(a) is selected, the control unit 100 tilts the seat back 12 of the front seat 10 forward using the electric reclining mechanism 21 in time with the movement of the cat on screen M1 jumping from the front seat. When the cat on screen M1 lands on the rear seat, the control unit 100 slides the rear seat 10 backward using the electric slide mechanism 30, tilts the seat back 12 of the rear seat 10 backward using the electric reclining mechanism 21, and activates the vibration device 23.

In this configuration, multiple seats 10 move in accordance with the movements of the cat on screen M1, further enhancing the entertainment value. Note that if the seat system has multiple seats, one monitor may be provided for each seat. In this case, the monitor may be provided in the door next to the seat.

In the above embodiment, the second control activates the first electric device (e.g., the electric reclining mechanism 21) corresponding to the first operation unit (e.g., the reclining switch 61) in the second operation state, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the control unit may activate a second electric device that cannot normally be operated with the first operation unit in the second control, and move the character image in accordance with the operation state of the second electric device.

Specifically, for example, when the reclining switch 61 is operated, the control unit 100 may display the image shown in FIG. 7(a) on the screen M1 and cause the seat 10 to slide using the electric slide mechanism 30. Note that when the second electric device is activated in the second control, the first electric device may be in any state. For example, the first electric device may be activated in the second activation state, may be in an inactive state, or may be activated in the first activation state.

In this embodiment, when the control unit 100 executes the second control, when the user operates the first operation unit, the second electric device, which cannot normally be operated by the first operation unit, is activated, thereby enhancing the entertainment value.

Furthermore, for example, in the second control, the second electric device and the third electric device may be activated. Specifically, for example, when the reclining switch 61 is operated, the image shown in FIG. 9(a) may be displayed on the screen M1, and the air cell 22 and the heater 42 may be activated.

In this embodiment, when the second control is executed, two electric devices different from the first electric device are activated, thereby enhancing the entertainment value.

The character image is not limited to a cat, and may be an image of a non-human animal. The character image may also be an image of a person. Even if the character image is an image of a person, the control unit can use an electric device to move part of the actual seat in accordance with the person on the screen's actions, such as tapping the seat, allowing the user to interact with the person on the screen through the seat.

The character image may be smaller than the sheet image, or larger than the sheet image. If the character image is smaller than the sheet image, the character can be placed on top of the sheet, crawl under the sheet, or perform a variety of other actions.

The position and number of electric devices are not limited to those in the above embodiment and can be changed as desired.

The electric device that moves at least a portion of the seat cushion surface upward is not limited to an air cell, and may be, for example, an electric tilt-up mechanism or an electric height mechanism. In the case of an electric tilt-up mechanism or an electric height mechanism, the entire seat cushion surface moves upward.

The condition for executing the image sheet linkage process when no operation command to operate the electric device is input is not limited to time, but may also be, for example, that the vehicle has stopped.

The electrically powered device that moves a specific portion of the seat between the first and second positions is not limited to an air cell; it may also be, for example, an electrically powered lumbar support that supports the user's driving posture.

If the vehicle is capable of autonomous driving, the control unit may prohibit the second control during manual driving and permit the second control during autonomous driving. The control unit may also permit the second control during auto-cruise while driving at high speeds and prohibit the second control when not driving at auto-cruise. The control unit may also permit the second control while the vehicle is stopped and prohibit the second control while the vehicle is driving.

A system equipped with a control unit that executes image sheet linkage processing may also be a system that does not include a sheet. For example, the system may include a vehicle interior component, an electric device that moves part of the interior component, a control unit that controls the electric device, and a screen.

The image displayed on the screen is not limited to a seat image, but may also be a user image that resembles the user. In this case, when a character image takes action on part of the user image, the part of the seat corresponding to that part of the user image may be moved by an electric device. Specifically, for example, a video of a cat stepping alternately on the user's waist with its left and right front paws may be displayed on the screen, causing air cells in part of the seat back (the part corresponding to the user's waist) to expand and contract.

The electrically powered device is not limited to the above embodiment, and may be, for example, a blower, a light, a device that emits a scent, or a device that rotates the seat around a vertical axis. If the seat is equipped with a blower and the air from the blower can be directed at the user from the seat surface, the blower may be operated when the image shown in Figure 9(a) is displayed on screen M1. In this case, the air from the blower can be used to simulate the sound of a cat breathing.

The function of executing the first control or the second control based on an operation command from an operating unit can be applied not only to seats, but also to anything equipped with an electric device. For example, if this function is applied to a vehicle, when a user operates the switch on the vehicle's air conditioner to increase the temperature, if the first control is executed, the set temperature will increase as usual, and if the second control is executed, the set temperature will decrease.

The operation unit may be a microphone that outputs operation commands based on voice input, or a device that captures the user's gestures (body movements) and outputs operation commands corresponding to the gestures.

The seat may be a vehicle seat used in an automobile, or a seat for other vehicles, such as a seat used on a boat or aircraft. The seat is not limited to a vehicle seat, and may also be, for example, a floor chair, furniture or outdoor chair, hospital waiting room chair, park bench, bed, mattress, etc.

As shown in FIG. 15, the seat 10 may further include an ottoman 14 that supports the user's calves, an ottoman actuator 24 that rotates the ottoman, an ottoman switch 64 for activating the ottoman actuator 24, and an air cell switch 65 for activating the air cell 22 used as lumbar support. In this case, the control unit 100 may activate at least one of the ottoman actuator 24 and the air cell 22 in accordance with the movement of the character displayed on the display unit.

In this case, the control unit 100 may execute a first control corresponding to an operation command from the ottoman switch 64 and a second control not corresponding to an operation command from the ottoman switch 64. Similarly, the control unit 100 may execute a first control corresponding to an operation command from the air cell switch 65 and a second control not corresponding to an operation command from the air cell switch 65.

The seat may be equipped with a seat-back tilting mechanism, a switch for activating the seat-back tilting mechanism, a headrest moving mechanism, a switch for activating the headrest moving mechanism, and the like. Here, the seat-back tilting mechanism is, for example, a mechanism for tilting the upper part of the seat back forward and backward relative to the lower part. The headrest moving mechanism is a mechanism for moving the headrest in the up-down and down and forward-backward directions. In this case, too, the control unit may execute a first control corresponding to an operation command from each switch, and a second control not corresponding to an operation command from each switch.

The display unit may be a smartphone, tablet device, a head-mounted display used for virtual reality, a monitor for a car navigation system, or the like. The display unit may also be a panel that displays an image of a speedometer or the like, a device that displays an image on a window such as the windshield, or a projection device that is built into a headlight and displays an image on the road surface.

The characters displayed on the screen may be changeable by user selection. In this case, the actions may be changed for each character. The type of electric actuator to be operated, the frequency with which the electric actuator is operated, and the magnitude of the electric actuator's output may be set for each character.

For example, if the character is a bird, the electric devices (speakers, air cells, etc.) on the headrest and shoulders may be operated more frequently than for other characters. Also, if the character is a bird, the amount of movement of the part of the seat that moves in accordance with the character's movements may be reduced compared to when the character is an animal larger than a bird, such as a cat. Also, if the character is an animal larger than a cat, such as a dog, the speed of the part of the seat that moves in accordance with the character's movements may be increased. If the character is a reptile such as a snake, the heater temperature may be lower compared to when the character is a mammal.

When auto-cruising, an image of a character operating the steering wheel may be displayed on the screen.

A sensor such as a camera may be used to detect the positional relationship with surrounding vehicles, and the movement of the electric device may be restricted based on that positional relationship.

The control unit may control the operation of the driver's seat differently from that of the other seats while the vehicle is in motion. For example, the driver's seat may be able to switch between the first and second modes only when the vehicle is stopped, while the other seats may be able to switch between the first and second modes at all times.

When a collision is detected or a collision is predicted, the control unit may stop image display and operation in the second mode and activate a safety device.

The amount and speed of movement of the portion of the seat that moves in accordance with the character's movements may be changed depending on the user's physique. For example, the larger the user's physique (the heavier the user), the smaller the amount and speed of movement of the portion of the seat. Note that the physique detection unit that detects physique can be, for example, a pressure sensor that detects pressure from the seat surface, an electromagnetic wave sensor, or a photographing device such as a camera.

The electrically operated device may also be selected to suit the user's physique. For example, when activating the air cells of a seat cushion in response to a cat crawling under the seat, only one air cell may be activated if the user's weight is below a predetermined value, and two air cells may be activated if the user's weight is above the predetermined value.

If the user's biometric information is detected and fatigue is detected, the seat may move to help the user recover from fatigue, and an image corresponding to this movement may be displayed. The sensor for detecting biometric information may be a sensor that detects at least one of brain waves, facial expressions, eye movements, breathing, heart rate, pulse rate, etc. An example of a seat movement that helps the user recover from fatigue is massaging the user by activating the seat's air cells. An example of an image displayed in response to this movement is a video of a cat rubbing a part of the user's body.

The control unit may suggest various modes to the user, such as a play mode, a fatigue recovery mode, a relaxation mode, or a sleep mode. If there are multiple seats, the mode may be switchable for each seat. In the relaxation mode or sleep mode, the control unit may operate the air cells in the seat back in sync with the user's breathing to induce the user into a sleep state. In the relaxation mode or sleep mode, the control unit may also display on the display unit a video of a cat alternately moving its left and right front paws to push against the seat back from behind.

The character's movements and messages may be changed based on the user's brain waves, facial expressions, gaze, and breathing. The control unit may also recommend characters to the user that match the user's hobbies and preferences based on user information such as gender and age. The control unit may also obtain user information from the user's smartphone, etc.

The control unit may distinguish between users based on user information and the like, and change the character's voice output depending on the level of intimacy with the user. Note that the level of intimacy may be higher, for example, the longer the user has been in cat mode. The control unit may then make the character use gentler language the higher the level of intimacy.

The lighting unit attached to the seat may operate in accordance with the display on the display unit and the operation of the seat.

The sheet system can be manufactured, for example, by the following method.
A seat system comprising a seat on which a user can sit, an electric device that moves a specific part of the seat, a control unit that controls the electric device, and a display unit, wherein the control unit is capable of displaying a seat image that resembles the seat and a character image on the display unit, and the display unit displays a video in which the character image takes action on a part of the seat image that corresponds to the specific part, and a method for manufacturing a seat system that performs an image-sheet linkage process in which the electric device moves the specific part in accordance with the action of the character image, the method comprising the steps of attaching the electric device to a member that constitutes the seat, and attaching the control unit to the member that constitutes the seat.

The elements described in the above embodiments and variations may be implemented in any combination.

REFERENCE SIGNS LIST 1 seat system 10 seat 21 electric reclining mechanism 22 air cell 23 vibration device 100 control unit G1 seat image G2 character image M monitor

Claims (10)

a seat on which a user can sit;
an electric device that moves a predetermined portion that is a part of the seat;
a heater provided at the predetermined location;
a control unit that controls the electric device and the heater ;
A seat system including a display unit,
The control unit
the display unit is capable of displaying a sheet image simulating the sheet and a character image,
a moving image in which the character image takes action on a part of the sheet image corresponding to the predetermined part, the moving image being displayed on the display unit; and an image sheet linking process being performed in which the predetermined part is moved by the electric device in accordance with the action of the character image;
A seat system characterized in that, in the image sheet linkage processing, the character image is displayed at a position on the seat image corresponding to the heater, and the electric device and the heater are activated to move and heat the specified part . The seat includes a headrest equipped with a speaker,
2. The seat system according to claim 1 , wherein the control unit outputs a sound from the speaker in accordance with the action of the character image . The seat includes a seat cushion and a seat back as the predetermined portion,
the electric device is an electric reclining mechanism that tilts the seat back,
The seat system according to claim 1, characterized in that the control unit tilts the seat back backward using the electric reclining mechanism in accordance with the character image tilting backward the portion of the seat image corresponding to the seat back . The seat includes a seat cushion and a seat back.
the predetermined portion is at least a part of the seat surface of the seat cushion,
the electric device is a device that moves the predetermined portion upward,
The seat system according to claim 1 , wherein the control unit causes the electric device to move the specified portion upward in accordance with the character image pushing up the portion corresponding to the specified portion of the seat image. the predetermined portion is a part of the seat surface of the seat,
the electric device is a device that moves the predetermined portion between a first position and a second position that protrudes toward a user from the first position,
The seat system described in claim 1, characterized in that the control unit causes the electric device to move the specified portion back and forth between the first position and the second position in accordance with the character image repeatedly moving the portion corresponding to the specified portion of the seat image. the seat includes a left vibration device and a right vibration device that are separated in the left-right direction,
The seat system according to claim 1 , wherein the control unit selectively activates the left vibration device and the right vibration device in accordance with the action of the character image. The seat includes a left speaker and a right speaker that are separated in the left-right direction,
2. The seat system according to claim 1, wherein the control unit selectively activates the left speaker and the right speaker in accordance with the action of the character image. The control unit
The sheet system according to claim 1 , wherein the image sheet linkage processing is executed when there is no input of an operation command to operate the electric device and when a condition other than the operation command is satisfied. A vehicle equipped with the seat system according to any one of claims 1 to 8,
A driving condition detection unit is provided to detect a driving condition of a vehicle,
The control unit acquires a driving state from the driving state detection unit, and limits movement of the electric device based on the acquired driving state. a road condition detection unit that detects road conditions;
The vehicle according to claim 9 , wherein the control unit limits the movement of the electric device based on road conditions.