Effects of Vehicle Seat Configuration on User Comfort and Sleep Quality for a Lying Occupant

Abstract

El propósito general de esta investigación consiste en identificar y definir las características esenciales de los asientos e interiores de los automóviles para que favorezcan un sueño de alta calidad. Esto involucra el análisis de los aspectos ergonómicos de los ajustes de asientos, la evaluación del impacto de distintos materiales y diseños de asientos, y la consideración de la incorporación de tecnologías que apoyen el sueño dentro del habitáculo del vehículo. En última instancia, el propósito es elevar la calidad del sueño de quienes viajan en automóviles completamente autónomos, contribuyendo de esta manera a su bienestar y confort general. Además, esta tesis busca establecer un marco fundamental y una base de conocimientos empíricos para futuras investigaciones en este campo en crecimiento. Al investigar exhaustivamente el caso de uso del sueño en automóviles completamente autónomos, este trabajo tiene la intención de proporcionar conocimientos útiles y datos que puedan servir como punto de referencia para la investigación en diseño e ingeniería de soluciones innovadoras y mejoras en esta área...

This doctoral thesis represents an extensive exploration of the role of sleep within the context of fully automated vehicles. Comprising three main studies that complement each other, the research delves into the dynamic requirements and inclinations of users, focusing on the adaptability of new car interiors and seating adjustments. The primary objective was to identify and establish optimal seat angles conducive to an enhanced sleep experience while in transit. The first study addresses the comfort of different seat angles in the context of sleeping in a moving vehicle, concluding a preference for reclined and flat seats in short-/medium- and long-term use cases, respectively. The second study, focusing on sleep quality and pressure distribution, highlights the advantages of a flat seat position over a reclined position for achieving restful and comfortable sleep during travel. The third study investigates the feasibility of achieving comfortable and restful sleep in reclined and flat seat configurations, inferring the benefits of the flat position for promoting deep and restful sleep. The research approach involves participant engagement, integrating a wide range of methodologies, questionnaires, and objective measures to assess comfort and sleep quality. The findings confirm the feasibility of achieving a comfortable and meaningful sleep experience in fully automated vehicles. Furthermore, the thesis acknowledges initial limitations in seat prototype design and suggests future directions for research, including the refinement of restraint systems, consideration of gender differences in comfort, and exploration of alternative seat angles and materials to alleviate travel-related discomfort and sickness