Patent Description:
In the field of vehicle interiors, the development of interior members in which switches for device operation are embedded is progressing. As an example, a lid of a console box of Patent Document <NUM> includes, from the front side toward the back side, a skin material, a switch, and a base material. The skin material includes, from the front side toward the back side, a surface layer and a cushion layer.

On a front surface of the surface layer, a design (a large number of light spots arranged in a grid pattern) corresponding to the switch is displayed by backlighting. An operator is able to grasp a position of the switch by visually recognizing said design. By pressing said design, the operator is able to press the switch via the surface layer and the cushion layer.

The skin material bypasses the base material, that is, an outer edge of the lid, and is rolled from a front surface into a back surface of the base material. An end of the skin material is joined to the back surface of the base material. Along with the skin material, a wire connected to the switch bypasses the outer edge of the lid and is rolled from the front surface into the back surface of the base material. A cover member is adjacent to a lower side of the lid. The cover member covers an opening of a box body of the console box. The cover member is not exposed to a vehicle interior.

<CIT> is related to a seating sensor and a vehicle seat having a built-in heater. <CIT> is related to a seat heater that warms a seat surface of a chair. <CIT> is related to a seat heater designed to reduce a load applied to temperature control means of the seat heater. <CIT> is related to an operation device capable of ensuring high designability by a simple structure and performing operation feedback at the time of touch operation.

However, when the wire is routed to bypass the outer edge of the lid, a routing length (wire length) may be increased. That is, the wire may become redundant. The cushion layer is flexible. Hence, when the switch is disposed on the back side of the cushion layer, a pressing force from the operator is likely to be absorbed by the cushion layer. Accordingly, the pressing force is less likely to be transmitted to the switch. In this way, when the switch is disposed on the back side of the cushion layer, operability deteriorates. In this regard, operability can be improved when the switch is disposed on the front side of the cushion layer. However, in this way, the wire may also be disposed on the front side of the cushion layer. Hence, the operator is likely to recognize the wire through the surface layer by the tactile sense or the visual sense. Accordingly, the wire that is not directly related to operation of a device may cause deterioration of the tactile feel of the operator. The appearance of the lid may deteriorate and designability may be impaired. Accordingly, an object of the present disclosure is to provide an interior member in which a wiring part can be prevented from becoming redundant, the tactile feel can be prevented from deteriorating, and designability can be improved.

The following description serves a better understanding of the present invention. In order to solve the above problems, an interior member present disclosure includes a first skin material, a second skin material, and a transducer. The first skin material includes: a first exposed part, exposed to a cabin interior; and a first embedded part, embedded on a cabin exterior side from the first exposed part. The second skin material includes: a second exposed part, exposed to the cabin interior and adjacent to the first exposed part; and a second embedded part, embedded on the cabin exterior side from the second exposed part and joined to the first embedded part. The transducer includes: a main body, disposed directly back of the first exposed part; and a wiring part, disposed directly back of at least the first embedded part and electrically connected to the main body. An end of the wiring part is disposed on the cabin exterior side of the first embedded part.

According to the interior member of the present invention the wiring part is routed using a joint portion between the first skin material and the second skin material. Hence, the wiring part can be prevented from becoming redundant compared to the case where the wiring part is routed to bypass an outer edge of the interior member. Since the wiring part can be prevented from becoming redundant, the operator is less likely to touch the wiring part and visually recognize the wiring part through the first skin material. Accordingly, the tactile feel can be prevented from deteriorating and designability can be improved.

Hereinafter, embodiments of an interior member will be described.

First, an arrangement and a configuration of an interior member of the present embodiment are described. In the drawings hereinafter, a rear side corresponds to a "cabin interior side" of the present disclosure, and a front side corresponds to a "cabin exterior side" of the present disclosure. <FIG> shows a layout diagram of the interior member of the present embodiment. <FIG> shows a transparent rear view (transparent front view) of said interior member. <FIG> shows a cross-sectional view taken along III-III of <FIG>. <FIG> shows an enlarged view within a frame IV of <FIG>. <FIG> shows an enlarged view within a frame V of <FIG>. In <FIG>, for convenience of description of a positional relationship between each member, display regions A1 to D1, a sensor part <NUM>, light sources 90A to 90D and so on are shown as seen through a skin layer <NUM> and so on.

As shown in <FIG>, an interior member <NUM> is disposed in a central portion in a left-right direction (vehicle width direction) of an instrument panel (interior part) <NUM> in a vehicle interior. That is, the interior member <NUM> is an interior member for vehicles. As shown in <FIG>, the interior member <NUM> includes a first skin material <NUM>, a second skin material <NUM>, the sensor part <NUM>, a first stitch <NUM>, a second stitch <NUM>, a flexible part <NUM>, a base <NUM>, and a light source part <NUM>.

The first skin material <NUM> includes a first exposed part <NUM> and a first embedded part <NUM>. The first exposed part <NUM> is exposed to the vehicle interior (cabin interior). The first exposed part <NUM> is in the shape of a flexible sheet having a three-layer structure. That is, from a front side (rear side) toward a back side (front side), the first exposed part <NUM> includes a skin layer <NUM>, an intermediate layer <NUM>, and a design layer <NUM>.

The skin layer <NUM> is made of synthetic leather and is layered. The skin layer <NUM> has a light transmitting property and flexibility. A front surface of the skin layer <NUM> is exposed to the vehicle interior. The intermediate layer <NUM> is disposed on the back side of the skin layer <NUM>. The intermediate layer <NUM> is made of light transmitting ink and is layered. The intermediate layer <NUM> has a light transmitting property and flexibility. The intermediate layer <NUM> has a lower light transmitting property than the skin layer <NUM>. That is, the intermediate layer <NUM> is semitransparent with a smoky tone. The intermediate layer <NUM> is colored transparent.

The design layer <NUM> is disposed on the back side of the intermediate layer <NUM>. The design layer <NUM> is made of light non-transmitting ink and is layered. The design layer <NUM> has a light non-transmitting property and flexibility. In the design layer <NUM>, four recesses 203A to 203D are disposed. The design layer <NUM> (excluding portions where the recesses 203A to 203D are disposed) does not transmit light.

The four recesses 203A to 203D open on a front surface and a back surface of the design layer <NUM>. That is, the recesses 203A to 203D penetrate the design layer <NUM> in a front-back direction. Provided inside the recesses 203A to 203D is a space. The recesses 203A to 203D set the display regions A1 to D1 in the first exposed part <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, as seen from the front side, a letter "A" is formed in the display region A1 (recess 203A), a letter "B" is formed in the display region B1 (recess 203B), a letter "C" is formed in the display region C1 (recess 203C), and a letter "D" is formed in the display region D1 (recess 203D). As shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, in the first exposed part <NUM>, the portions where the display regions A1 to D1 (recesses 203A to 203D) are set have a smaller thickness in the front-back direction than the other portions. Hence, light is likely to be transmitted therethrough. As shown in black in <FIG>, by light irradiated from the back side, the display regions A1 to D1 display the predetermined designs "A" to "D" on the front surface of the skin layer <NUM> (that is, first exposed part <NUM>).

The first embedded part <NUM> is embedded on the front side from an upper edge of the first exposed part <NUM>. The first embedded part <NUM> is not exposed to the vehicle interior. The first embedded part <NUM> is integrally connected to the first exposed part <NUM>. That is, like the first exposed part <NUM>, the first embedded part <NUM> is in the shape of a flexible sheet having a three-layer structure. The first embedded part <NUM> includes, from a front side (upper side) toward a back side (lower side), a skin layer <NUM>, an intermediate layer <NUM>, and a design layer <NUM>. The skin layer <NUM> and the skin layer <NUM> are made of the same material and are integrally connected; the intermediate layer <NUM> and the intermediate layer <NUM> are made of the same material and are integrally connected; the design layer <NUM> and the design layer <NUM> are made of the same material and are integrally connected.

The second skin material <NUM> is disposed on the upper side of and side by side with the first skin material <NUM>. The second skin material <NUM> is made of synthetic leather and is in the shape of a sheet. The second skin material <NUM> includes a second exposed part <NUM> and a second embedded part <NUM>. The second exposed part <NUM> is exposed to the vehicle interior. The second exposed part <NUM> is adjacent to the upper side of the first exposed part <NUM>.

The second embedded part <NUM> is embedded on the front side from a lower edge of the second exposed part <NUM>. The second embedded part <NUM> is not exposed to the vehicle interior. The second embedded part <NUM> is integrally connected to the second exposed part <NUM>. The second embedded part <NUM> is disposed on the upper side of the first embedded part <NUM>. As will be described later, the second embedded part <NUM> is joined to the first embedded part <NUM>.

The sensor part <NUM> is disposed on the back side of the first exposed part <NUM> and on the back side of the first embedded part <NUM>. The sensor part <NUM> includes four sensors (switches for device operation) 4A to 4D. First, a configuration of the four sensors 4A to 4D is described. The four sensors 4A to 4D have similar configurations. The configuration of the sensor 4A is representatively described below.

The sensor 4A is a capacitive pressure sensor (load sensor). The sensor 4A is able to detect a load (pressing force from an operator) input from the front side (vehicle interior inner side). The load is included in the concept of "physical quantity" of the present disclosure. The sensor 4A includes a main body <NUM> and a wiring part <NUM>.

The main body <NUM> is disposed on the back side of the first exposed part <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, the main body <NUM> has an annular shape as seen from the front side. The main body <NUM> is in the shape of a flexible sheet having a three-layer structure. That is, as shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, the main body <NUM> includes, from the front side toward the back side, a front-side electrode layer <NUM>, an insulation layer <NUM>, and a back-side electrode layer <NUM>. The front-side electrode layer <NUM> is disposed on the back side of the design layer <NUM>. The front-side electrode layer <NUM> is layered and has flexibility. The front-side electrode layer <NUM> includes a styrene-based thermoplastic elastomer and a conductive material containing carbon black.

The insulation layer <NUM> is disposed on the back side of the front-side electrode layer <NUM>. The insulation layer <NUM> is layered and has flexibility. The insulation layer <NUM> includes a styrene-based elastomer and an olefin-based elastomer. The back-side electrode layer <NUM> is laminated on the back side of the insulation layer <NUM>. The back-side electrode layer <NUM> is layered and has flexibility. The back-side electrode layer <NUM> is made of the same material as the front-side electrode layer <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG>, <FIG>, and <FIG>, input regions A2 to D2 are set in the main body <NUM>. The input regions A2 to D2 extend over the entire main body <NUM>. The input regions A2 to D2 have an annular shape as seen from the front side. The input regions A2 to D2 are disposed around the display regions A1 to D1 as seen from the front side. A load is input to the input regions A2 to D2 from the front side. Due to said load, the insulation layer <NUM> is elastically deformed, and an interelectrode distance (distance in the front-back direction between the front-side electrode layer <NUM> and the back-side electrode layer <NUM>) changes. That is, the capacitance changes.

As shown by dotted lines in <FIG>, the wiring part <NUM> is disposed on the back side of the first exposed part <NUM> and on the back side of the first embedded part <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, the wiring part <NUM> has a band shape as seen from the front side. The wiring part <NUM> is integrally connected to the main body <NUM>. That is, as shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, like the main body <NUM>, the wiring part <NUM> is in the shape of a flexible sheet having a three-layer structure. The wiring part <NUM> includes, from the front side toward the back side, a front-side wiring layer <NUM>, an insulation layer <NUM>, and a back-side wiring layer <NUM>. The front-side wiring layer <NUM> and the front-side electrode layer <NUM> are made of the same material and are integrally connected; the insulation layer <NUM> and the insulation layer <NUM> are made of the same material and are integrally connected; the back-side wiring layer <NUM> and the back-side electrode layer <NUM> are made of the same material and are integrally connected.

As shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, one end (rear end) of the wiring part <NUM> is connected to the main body <NUM>. On the other hand, at the other end (front end) of the wiring part <NUM>, a connector 41a is disposed. The connector 41a corresponds to an "end of a wiring part" of the present disclosure. The connector 41a is disposed on the front side of the first embedded part <NUM>, the second embedded part <NUM>, and the flexible part <NUM>.

A control device (not illustrated) is disposed on the front side of the interior member <NUM>. The connector 41a (specifically, front-side wiring layer <NUM> and back-side wiring layer <NUM>) is electrically connected to the control device via a harness <NUM>.

Next, an arrangement of the four sensors 4A to 4D is described. As shown by dotted lines in <FIG>, the main bodies <NUM> of the four sensors 4A to 4D are disposed spaced apart at predetermined intervals in the up-down and left-right directions. The wiring parts <NUM> of the four sensors 4A to 4D are spaced apart at predetermined intervals in the left-right direction and extend in the up-down direction on the back side of the first exposed part <NUM>. The wiring parts <NUM> of the four sensors 4A to 4D are spaced apart at predetermined intervals in the left-right direction and extend in the front-rear direction on the back side of the first embedded part <NUM>.

The first stitch <NUM> is made of a thread. Like the second stitch <NUM> shown in <FIG>, the first stitch <NUM> extends in the left-right direction. As shown in <FIG>, the first stitch <NUM> sutures the wiring part <NUM>, the first embedded part <NUM>, and the second embedded part <NUM> from the lower side toward the upper side. Specifically, the first stitch <NUM> sutures (joins) the first embedded part <NUM> and the second embedded part <NUM>. By the first embedded part <NUM> and the second embedded part <NUM> joined to each other, an embedded junction O is formed. Also, the first stitch <NUM> sews the wiring part <NUM> on a back surface of the first embedded part <NUM>. That is, the wiring part <NUM> is positioned and fixed with respect to the first embedded part <NUM>.

The second stitch <NUM> is made of a thread. As shown in <FIG>, the second stitch <NUM> extends in the left-right direction. As shown in <FIG>, the second stitch <NUM> sutures the wiring part <NUM> and the first exposed part <NUM> from the front side (back side) toward the rear side (front side). Specifically, the second stitch <NUM> sews the wiring part <NUM> on a back surface of the first exposed part <NUM>. That is, the wiring part <NUM> is positioned and fixed with respect to the first exposed part <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG>, as seen from the front side, the second stitch <NUM> is disposed between a boundary E and the main body <NUM>, the boundary E being between the first exposed part <NUM> and the second exposed part <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, the second stitch <NUM> protrudes to the rear side (vehicle interior inner side) with respect to the front surface of the first exposed part <NUM>. As seen from the rear side, the second stitch <NUM> is in the shape of dotted lines long in the left-right direction. When the operator touches the first exposed part <NUM>, the operator is able to distinguish between the skin layer <NUM> and the second stitch <NUM> by the tactile sense. That is, the second stitch <NUM> is tactilely recognizable from the front side of the first exposed part <NUM>.

The flexible part <NUM> includes a first flexible layer <NUM> and a second flexible layer <NUM>. The first flexible layer <NUM> is disposed on the back side of the first skin material <NUM> and the sensor part <NUM>. The first flexible layer <NUM> is made of a foam of a thermoplastic elastomer. The first flexible layer <NUM> is layered and has flexibility.

As shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, four through holes 700A to 700D are opened in the first flexible layer <NUM>. The through holes 700A to 700D serve as both "through holes" and "light introduction holes" of the present disclosure. The through holes 700A to 700D penetrate the first flexible layer <NUM> in the front-back direction.

As shown in <FIG>, <FIG>, and <FIG>, in the first flexible layer <NUM>, first regions A3 to D3 and second regions A4 to D4 are set. The first regions A3 to D3 are disposed on the back side of the input regions A2 to D2. The first regions A3 to D3 have an annular shape as seen from the front side. The first regions A3 to D3 are disposed around the display regions A1 to D1 as seen from the front side.

The second regions A4 to D4 are adjacent to the first regions A3 to D3. The second regions A4 to D4 are disposed radially inside the first regions A3 to D3 as seen from the front side. The second regions A4 to D4 are disposed on the back side of the display regions A1 to D1. The second regions A4 to D4 correspond to the through holes (spaces) 700A to 700D.

Here, the first regions A3 to D3 have higher hardness than the second regions A4 to D4. That is, the first regions A3 to D3 are a high hardness region H. The second regions A4 to D4 are a low hardness region L having lower hardness than the high hardness region H. The term "hardness" is, for example, hardness measured with an ASKER-C (durometer defined by SRISO101 (standards of the Society of Rubber Science and Technology, Japan)) hardness meter. The second flexible layer <NUM> is disposed on the back side of the second skin material <NUM>. The second flexible layer <NUM> is layered and has flexibility. The second flexible layer <NUM> is made of the same material as the first flexible layer <NUM>.

The base <NUM> includes a first base material <NUM> and a second base material <NUM>. The first base material <NUM> is disposed on the back side of the first flexible layer <NUM>. The first base material <NUM> is made of resin and is layered. The first base material <NUM> has a light transmitting property and flexibility. The second base material <NUM> is disposed on the back side of the second flexible layer <NUM>. The second base material <NUM> is layered and made of the same material as the first base material <NUM>.

The light source part <NUM> is disposed on the back side of the base <NUM>. As shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, the light source part <NUM> includes the four light sources (LEDs) 90A to 90D. The light sources 90A to 90D are disposed on the back side of the through holes 700A to 700D, respectively. Front surfaces of the light sources 90A to 90D are each able to emit light over the entire surface.

As an example, when the display region C1 is focused, as shown in <FIG>, the light from the light source 90C reaches the display region C1 via the base <NUM> and the through hole 700C. Said light reaches a front surface of the interior member <NUM> via the display region C1 (recess 203C), the intermediate layer <NUM>, and the skin layer <NUM>. Hence, as shown in <FIG>, the design "C" is displayed on the front surface of the interior member <NUM>.

Next, a method for operating the interior member of the present embodiment is described. The method for operating the interior member of the present embodiment is particularly suitable when the operator operates the interior member <NUM> while being unable to visually recognize the interior member <NUM>. For example, the method is suitable when a vehicle driver operates an interior member (specifically, a device associated with an interior member) while driving.

During operation, the operator touches the front surface of the interior member <NUM> without visually recognizing the interior member <NUM>. Here, the second stitch <NUM> and the first exposed part <NUM> (specifically, skin layer <NUM>) are different in material. As shown in <FIG>, the second stitch <NUM> (specifically, a rear end of the second stitch <NUM>) protrudes from the front surface of the first exposed part <NUM>. Hence, the operator is able to recognize the second stitch <NUM> by the tactile sense.

As shown in <FIG>, the second stitch <NUM> is disposed on the upper side of and in close proximity to the input regions A2 to D2. The operator understands in advance a positional relationship between the second stitch <NUM> and the input regions A2 to D2. Hence, the operator is able to, on the basis of a position of the second stitch <NUM> recognized by the tactile sense, recognize (find out) positions of the desired input regions A2 to D2 by groping.

Also, as shown in <FIG>, the first regions A3 to D3 directly back of the input regions A2 to D2 are the high hardness region H. On the other hand, the second regions A4 to D4 adjacent to the first regions A3 to D3 are the low hardness region L. Hence, the operator is able to, on the basis of a hardness difference between the high hardness region H and the low hardness region L, recognize the positions of the desired input regions A2 to D2 by groping.

In the case where the operator is able to visually recognize the interior member and the light sources 90A to 90D have been turned on, the operator is able to recognize the positions of the desired input regions A2 to D2 on the basis of the designs "A" to "D" displayed on the front surface of the first exposed part <NUM>.

When the operator presses the desired input regions A2 to D2 (specifically, portions of the front surface of the first exposed part <NUM> having the desired input regions A2 to D2 disposed on the back side thereof), the main bodies (load detectors) <NUM> of the sensors 4A to 4D corresponding to the input regions A2 to D2 are compressed. Hence, the capacitance of the main bodies <NUM> increases. The control device drives the device (not illustrated) associated with the main bodies <NUM> based on a change in the capacitance of the main body <NUM>. In this way, the interior member <NUM> of the present embodiment is operated.

Next, effects of the interior member of the present embodiment are described. A case is assumed where a skin material is an integral piece, and a wiring part is routed to a vehicle interior outer side of the interior member. In this case, it is necessary to route the wiring part via an outer edge of the skin material. For example, in the case where the first skin material <NUM> and the second skin material <NUM> shown in <FIG> are integrally connected in the up-down direction, it is necessary to route the wiring part <NUM> via a lower edge of the first skin material <NUM> or an upper edge of the second skin material <NUM>.

In contrast, in the case of the interior member <NUM> of the present embodiment, as shown in <FIG>, a skin material is composed of two divided bodies (first skin material <NUM> and second skin material <NUM>). Hence, the wiring part <NUM> can be routed to a vehicle interior outer side (vehicle interior outer side of the first embedded part <NUM>, the second embedded part <NUM>, the first flexible layer <NUM>, and the second flexible layer <NUM>) of the interior member <NUM> using the boundary (joint portion or seam) E between the first skin material <NUM> and the second skin material <NUM>. Accordingly, compared to the case where the skin material is an integral piece, the routing length can be reduced. Thus, the wiring part <NUM> can be prevented from becoming redundant. The influence (such as deterioration of detection accuracy) of noise (such as electrical resistance or stray capacitance) caused by redundancy of the wiring part <NUM> on the sensor part <NUM> can be suppressed.

As shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, the front-side electrode layer <NUM> is disposed directly back of the design layer <NUM>. That is, the main body <NUM> is disposed directly back of the first skin material <NUM> without via another layer (such as a flexible layer). Hence, the pressing force from the operator is likely to be transmitted to the main body <NUM>. Accordingly, operability can be improved.

Here, as shown in <FIG>, when the main body <NUM> is disposed directly back of the first skin material <NUM>, the wiring part <NUM> is also disposed directly back of the first skin material <NUM>. That is, the wiring part <NUM>, which is not directly related to operation of a device, may cause deterioration of the tactile feel of the operator. In this regard, according to the interior member <NUM> of the present embodiment, the wiring part <NUM> can be prevented from becoming redundant, as described above. Hence, when the operator touches the interior member <NUM>, the operator is less likely to recognize the wiring part <NUM>. Accordingly, even if the wiring part <NUM> is disposed directly back of the first skin material <NUM>, the tactile feel of the operator is less likely to deteriorate. Since the wiring part <NUM> can be prevented from becoming redundant, an outline of the wiring part <NUM> is less likely to appear (less noticeable) on a front surface of the first skin material <NUM>. Hence, the operator is less likely to visually recognize the wiring part <NUM> through the first skin material <NUM>. Accordingly, even if the wiring part <NUM> is disposed directly back of the first skin material <NUM>, designability of the interior member <NUM> can be improved.

As shown in <FIG>, the sensor part <NUM> is disposed on the back side of the first skin material <NUM>. Hence, while the sensor part <NUM> can be prevented from being visually recognized from inside of the vehicle interior, the position of the sensor part <NUM> can be recognized by the tactile sense. Also, the sensor part <NUM> can be operated.

As shown in <FIG>, the first stitch <NUM> sutures the first embedded part <NUM> and the second embedded part <NUM>. Hence, the first embedded part <NUM> and the second embedded part <NUM> can be fixed. The first stitch <NUM> sews the wiring part <NUM> on the first embedded part <NUM>. Hence, the wiring part <NUM> can be fixed to the first embedded part <NUM>. An extension direction (left-right direction) of the first stitch <NUM> and an extension direction (front-rear direction) of the wiring part <NUM> intersect (are orthogonal to) each other. Hence, a length of a seam allowance can be reduced. Accordingly, an increase in wiring resistance can be suppressed. The first stitch <NUM> is disposed at the embedded junction O (specifically, a rear end of the embedded junction O). The first stitch <NUM> is not exposed to the vehicle interior. Hence, a good appearance is provided.

As shown in <FIG>, the second stitch <NUM> is disposed in the first exposed part <NUM>. The operator is able to recognize the second stitch <NUM> by the tactile sense. Hence, the operator is able to, on the basis of a position of the second stitch <NUM> recognized by the tactile sense, recognize the positions of the desired input regions A2 to D2. The second stitch <NUM> is in the shape of dotted lines. Hence, the operator is likely to recognize the second stitch <NUM> by the tactile sense.

As shown in <FIG>, the second stitch <NUM> sews the wiring part <NUM> on the first exposed part <NUM>. Hence, the wiring part <NUM> can be fixed to the first exposed part <NUM>. An extension direction (left-right direction) of the second stitch <NUM> and an extension direction (up-down direction) of the wiring part <NUM> intersect (are orthogonal to) each other. Hence, a length of a seam allowance can be reduced. Accordingly, an increase in wiring resistance can be suppressed.

As shown in <FIG>, the connector 41a is disposed on the vehicle interior outer side of the flexible part <NUM>. That is, the wiring part <NUM> is routed using a boundary between the first flexible layer <NUM> and the second flexible layer <NUM>. Hence, the wiring part <NUM> can be prevented from becoming redundant compared to the case where the wiring part <NUM> is routed to bypass the flexible part <NUM>. The influence of noise caused by redundancy of the wiring part <NUM> on the sensor part <NUM> can be suppressed.

As shown in <FIG>, <FIG>, and <FIG>, the first regions A3 to D3 directly back of the input regions A2 to D2 are the high hardness region H. On the other hand, the second regions A4 to D4 adjacent to the first regions A3 to D3 are the low hardness region L. The operator is able to recognize the hardness difference between the high hardness region H and the low hardness region L by the tactile sense from the front side of the first exposed part <NUM>. Hence, the operator is able to recognize the positions of the desired input regions A2 to D2 on the basis of said hardness difference.

As shown in <FIG>, <FIG>, and <FIG>, the second regions A4 to D4 (low hardness region L) include the through holes 700A to 700D. The through holes 700A to 700D penetrate the second regions A4 to D4 in the front-back direction. Hence, the hardness of the second regions A4 to D4 can be easily reduced.

The light sources 90A to 90D are disposed on the back side of the through holes 700A to 700D via the first base material <NUM>. Also, the display regions A1 to D1 are disposed on the front side of the through holes 700A to 700D. Hence, the light from the light sources 90A to 90D can be irradiated to the display regions A1 to D1 from the back side. In this way, the through holes 700A to 700D function as the "light introduction holes" that introduce light into the display regions A1 to D1.

As shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, the first exposed part <NUM> includes the intermediate layer <NUM> that is semitransparent. Hence, in the case where the light sources 90A to 90D are off (turned off), the designs "A" to "D" of the display regions A1 to D1 can be prevented from being displayed on the front surface of the first exposed part <NUM>. On the other hand, in the case where the light sources 90A to 90D are on (turned on), assistance can be provided in displaying the designs "A" to "D" of the display regions A1 to D1 on the front surface of the first exposed part <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, the first flexible layer <NUM> is disposed on the back side of the sensor part <NUM>. The first flexible layer <NUM> is made of an elastomer and has flexibility. Hence, the operator has a good tactile feel when touching the first skin material <NUM>. The through holes 700A to 700D are opened in the first flexible layer <NUM>. Hence, the first flexible layer <NUM> has a high light transmitting property.

As shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, the first base material <NUM> is disposed on the back side of the first flexible layer <NUM>. The first base material <NUM> has a light transmitting property. Hence, the light from the light sources 90A to 90D can be transmitted to the through holes 700A to 700D of the first flexible layer <NUM>. The base <NUM> is harder than other parts (first skin material <NUM>, second skin material <NUM>, sensor part <NUM>, first stitch <NUM>, second stitch <NUM>, and flexible part <NUM>). Hence, the shape retention of the interior member <NUM> can be ensured.

As shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, the light sources 90A to 90D and the through holes 700A to 700D are linearly connected in the front-back direction. Hence, a high light transmitting property is provided. The light sources 90A to 90D are LEDs. Hence, the light from the light sources 90A to 90D has high straightness (directionality). Accordingly, the light is likely to be introduced into the through holes 700A to 700D.

A front-side conductive layer (front-side electrode layer <NUM> and front-side wiring layer <NUM>) and a back-side conductive layer (back-side electrode layer <NUM> and back-side wiring layer <NUM>) include a styrene-based thermoplastic elastomer as an elastomer component. That is, a conductive layer (front-side conductive layer and back-side conductive layer) includes an elastomer component as a base material. Hence, the conductive layer is flexible.

An interior member of the present embodiment differs from the interior member of the first embodiment in that no first stitch is disposed, and that the second stitch does not fix the wiring part to the first exposed part. Here, only the differences will be described.

<FIG> shows a partial cross-sectional view in the up-down direction of the interior member of the present embodiment. Portions corresponding to those in <FIG> are denoted by the same reference numerals. As shown in <FIG>, there is no first stitch <NUM> (see <FIG>) disposed at the embedded junction O. A front surface of the first embedded part <NUM> (skin layer <NUM>) and a front surface of the second embedded part <NUM> are bonded. A front surface of the wiring part <NUM> (front-side wiring layer <NUM>) is bonded to the back surface of the first embedded part <NUM> (design layer <NUM>).

The second stitch <NUM> is a stitch-like molded product. That is, the second stitch <NUM> is a pseudo stitch. The second stitch <NUM> is fixed to the front surface of the first exposed part <NUM> (skin layer <NUM>). The second stitch <NUM> protrudes from the front surface of the first exposed part <NUM>. The front surface of the wiring part <NUM> (front-side wiring layer <NUM>) is bonded to the back surface of the first exposed part <NUM> (design layer <NUM>).

The interior member of the present embodiment and the interior member of the first embodiment have similar effects with respect to portions having common configurations. As in the interior member <NUM> of the present embodiment, the first stitch may not be disposed. That is, at the embedded junction O, the first embedded part <NUM> and the second embedded part <NUM> may be bonded together. The wiring part <NUM> may be bonded to the first embedded part <NUM>. In this way, a seam allowance caused by the first stitch can be removed from the wiring part <NUM>. Hence, an increase in wiring resistance can be suppressed.

The second stitch <NUM> may be a pseudo stitch. The wiring part <NUM> may be bonded to the first exposed part <NUM>. In this way, a seam allowance caused by the second stitch <NUM> can be removed from the wiring part <NUM>. Hence, an increase in wiring resistance can be suppressed. Even in this case, the operator is able to recognize the second stitch <NUM> by the tactile sense.

An interior member of the present embodiment differs from the interior member of the first embodiment in that a first region corresponds to a low hardness region and a second region corresponds to a high hardness region. Here, only the differences will be described.

<FIG> shows a partial cross-sectional view in the up-down direction of the interior member of the present embodiment. Portions corresponding to those in <FIG> are denoted by the same reference numerals. As shown in <FIG>, the first flexible layer <NUM> includes a hard part <NUM> and a soft part <NUM>. The hard part <NUM> and the soft part <NUM> are both made of an elastomer. The hard part <NUM> has higher hardness than the soft part <NUM>. That is, a hardness difference is set between the hard part <NUM> and the soft part <NUM>.

The soft part <NUM> has an annular shape as seen from the front side. The soft part <NUM> is disposed in the first region C3. Hence, the first region C3 is the low hardness region L. On the other hand, the hard part <NUM> is disposed in a portion other than the soft part <NUM> in the first flexible layer <NUM>. Hence, the second region C4 is the high hardness region H. The hard part <NUM> has a light transmitting property. Hence, the light from the light source 90C is able to be transmitted through the hard part <NUM>.

The interior member of the present embodiment and the interior member of the first embodiment have similar effects with respect to portions having common configurations. The first region C3 may be the low hardness region L as in the interior member <NUM> of the present embodiment. The second region C4 may be the high hardness region H. Even in this case, the operator is able to recognize the input region C2 by the tactile sense.

When the operator applies a pressing force to the input region C2 via the first exposed part <NUM>, the first region C3 (low hardness region L) is compressed and deformed (sinks) to the back side. At this time, the second region C4 (high hardness region H) guides the compression and deformation of the first region C3 from radially inside. Hence, a deformation direction of the first region C3 is likely to be stabilized.

The embodiments of the interior member of the present disclosure have been described above. However, embodiments are not particularly limited to the above embodiments. It is also possible to implement various modifications and improvements that can be made by those skilled in the art.

<FIG> shows a partial cross-sectional view in the up-down direction of an interior member of another embodiment (part <NUM>). <FIG> shows a partial cross-sectional view in the up-down direction of an interior member of another embodiment (part <NUM>). <FIG> shows a partial cross-sectional view in the up-down direction of an interior member of another embodiment (part <NUM>). Portions corresponding to those in <FIG> are denoted by the same reference numerals. Portions shown in <FIG> correspond to those within a frame VIII of <FIG>.

As shown in <FIG>, the first flexible layer <NUM> of another embodiment (part <NUM>) includes the hard part <NUM> and the soft part <NUM>. The soft part <NUM> is made of a foam of an elastomer. The hard part <NUM> is integrally connected to the soft part <NUM>. In the hard part <NUM>, the foam forming the soft part <NUM> is impregnated with resin. That is, the hard part <NUM> is made of a foam impregnated with resin. According to the present embodiment, by partially impregnating the first flexible layer <NUM> with resin, the high hardness region H (second region C4) and the low hardness region L (first region C3) can be easily set. The amount of resin for impregnating the hard part <NUM> is not particularly limited. The soft part <NUM> (low hardness region L) may be impregnated with resin. It is sufficient if a difference in resin impregnation rate can be set between the hard part <NUM> and the soft part <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG>, the first flexible layer <NUM> of another embodiment (part <NUM>) includes a thin part <NUM> and a thick part <NUM>. The thin part <NUM> has a smaller thickness in the front-back direction than the thick part <NUM>. Hence, the thin part <NUM> has lower hardness than the thick part <NUM>. Accordingly, the thin part <NUM> corresponds to the low hardness region L, and the thick part <NUM> corresponds to the high hardness region H. According to the present embodiment, by partially reducing the thickness in the front-back direction (front-rear direction) of the first flexible layer <NUM>, the high hardness region H (first region C3) and the low hardness region L (second region C4) can be easily set. The thickness in the front-back direction of the thick part <NUM> (high hardness region H) may be made smaller than the original thickness in the front-back direction of the first flexible layer <NUM>. It is sufficient if a difference in thickness in the front-back direction can be set between the thin part <NUM> and the thick part <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG>, a plurality of through holes 700C are opened in the first flexible layer <NUM> of another embodiment (part <NUM>). The through holes 700C penetrate the first flexible layer <NUM> in the front-back direction (front-rear direction). According to the present embodiment, by partially disposing the through hole 700C in the first flexible layer <NUM>, the high hardness region H (first region C3) and the low hardness region L (second region C4) can be easily set. The through hole 700C may be disposed in the high hardness region H. The diameter, number disposed and shape of the through holes 700C are not particularly limited. It is sufficient if a difference in aperture ratio of the through hole 700C can be set between the high hardness region H and the low hardness region L.

The stitch type of the first stitch <NUM> shown in <FIG> is not particularly limited. Examples thereof may include straight stitch, chain stitch, fly stitch, blanket stitch, French knot stitch, cross stitch, back stitch, outline stitch, feather stitch, herringbone stitch, couching stitch, and chevron stitch. The number of the first stitch <NUM> disposed is not particularly limited. The number disposed may be single (single stitch) or plural (for example, double stitch). The same applies to the second stitch <NUM>.

The first stitch <NUM> shown in <FIG> may be combined into the form shown in <FIG>. That is, the first embedded part <NUM> and the second embedded part <NUM> may be bonded together, the wiring part <NUM> may be bonded to the first embedded part <NUM>, and the wiring part <NUM>, the first embedded part <NUM>, and the second embedded part <NUM> may be sutured by the first stitch <NUM>. In this way, a joining strength between the wiring part <NUM> and the first embedded part <NUM> and between the first embedded part <NUM> and the second embedded part <NUM> is increased.

As shown in <FIG>, the first stitch <NUM> functions both as a "skin material joining member" that joins the first skin material <NUM> and the second skin material <NUM>, and as a "first wiring part fixing member" that fixes the wiring part <NUM> to the first skin material <NUM>. The second stitch <NUM> functions as a "second wiring part fixing member" that fixes the wiring part <NUM> to the first skin material <NUM>. A stapler, a rivet or the like may be used as the "skin material joining member," the "first wiring part fixing member," and the "second wiring part fixing member.

The second stitch <NUM> functions as an "input position notification member" that indirectly informs the operator of the positions of the input regions A2 to D2. For example, the second stitch <NUM> (pseudo stitch) shown in <FIG> does not function as the "second wiring part fixing member," but only functions as the "input position notification member. " A predetermined design may be three-dimensionally disposed on the front surface of the first exposed part <NUM> as the "input position notification member. " Even in this case, the operator is able to recognize the design by the tactile sense. The predetermined design may be planarly disposed as the "input position notification member. " Even in this case, by setting a difference in coefficient of friction between a front surface of the design and the front surface of the first exposed part <NUM>, the operator is able to recognize the design by the tactile sense.

Here, examples of the design disposed as the "input position notification member" include at least one selected from a pattern (such as polka dot pattern, stripe pattern, lattice pattern, wood grain pattern, or marble pattern), a letter (such as alphabet, hiragana character, katakana character, kanji character, number, or braille character), a shape (such as dot, straight line, dotted lines, dash-dotted lines, polygon or circle), and a symbol (such as button for device operation, or icon indicating device status).

The second stitch <NUM> may not be disposed in the interior member <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, the boundary E is sunk on the front side from the front surfaces (portions of the front surfaces that protrude most rearward) of the first exposed part <NUM> and the second exposed part <NUM>. Hence, the operator is able to recognize the boundary E by the tactile sense. Accordingly, the operator is able to, on the basis of a position of the boundary E, recognize (find out) the positions of the desired input regions A2 to D2 by groping.

A bonding manner between the first embedded part <NUM> and the second embedded part <NUM> shown in <FIG> is not particularly limited. The first embedded part <NUM> and the second embedded part <NUM> may be directly bonded (including fusion bonded). The first embedded part <NUM> and the second embedded part <NUM> may be indirectly bonded via a bonding layer (which may be a single layer or multiple layers). The same applies to the bonding form between the wiring part <NUM> and the first embedded part <NUM> and the bonding form between the wiring part <NUM> and the first exposed part <NUM>.

The first exposed part <NUM> and the first embedded part <NUM> may have the same or different configurations. For example, the first exposed part <NUM> may include the skin layer <NUM>, the intermediate layer <NUM> and the design layer <NUM>, while the first embedded part <NUM> may include only the skin layer <NUM>. That is, the first embedded part <NUM> may not include the intermediate layer <NUM> and the design layer <NUM>.

The configuration of the flexible part <NUM> is not particularly limited. The first flexible layer <NUM> and the second flexible layer <NUM> may be integrated into one piece. The configuration of the base <NUM> is not particularly limited. The first base material <NUM> and the second base material <NUM> may be integrated into one piece.

The configuration of the sensor part <NUM> is not particularly limited. The number of sensors 4A to 4D disposed may be single or plural. For example, in the case of the number of sensors 4A to 4D disposed is single, an intersection (portion where the front-side electrode layer <NUM>, the insulation layer <NUM> and the back-side electrode layer <NUM> are laminated (see <FIG>)) of a plurality of front-side electrode layers <NUM> of a band shape and a plurality of back-side electrode layers <NUM> of a band shape that are disposed in a grid pattern as seen from the front side may be set as the input regions A2 to D2.

The type of the sensors 4A to 4D is not particularly limited. Examples thereof may include capacitive sensor, resistive film sensor, strain gauge sensor, and piezoelectric effect sensor. It is sufficient if a physical quantity input by the operator touching the first exposed part <NUM> can be detected. The type of the physical quantity is not particularly limited. Examples thereof include length, mass, time, current, load, pressure, and energy.

As a "transducer" of the present disclosure, a tactile switch or an actuator may be disposed instead of the sensors 4A to 4D. As the actuator, for example, an electrostatic actuator, an electromagnetic actuator, or a piezoelectric actuator may be disposed. The electrostatic actuator may include the front-side electrode layer <NUM>, the insulation layer <NUM>, and the back-side electrode layer <NUM> (see <FIG>).

The wiring part <NUM> shown in <FIG> may not include the insulation layer <NUM>. It is sufficient if insulation between the front-side wiring layer <NUM> and the back-side wiring layer <NUM> can be ensured. The type of the front-side wiring layer <NUM> and the back-side wiring layer <NUM> is not particularly limited. Examples thereof may include a conductive sheet and a conductive wire. The configuration of the end of the wiring part <NUM> is not particularly limited. Examples thereof may include a connector, a coupler, and a terminal. The end may be the wiring part <NUM> itself (for example, an end of a conductive sheet or an end of a conductive wire).

As shown in <FIG>, the sensor 4A includes the input region A2, the sensor 4B includes the input region B2, the sensor 4C includes the input region C2, and the sensor 4D includes the input region D2. The first region A3 is disposed on the back side of the input region A2, the first region B3 is disposed on the back side of the input region B2, the first region C3 is disposed on the back side of the input region C2, and the first region D3 is disposed on the back side of the input region D2. A hardness difference may be set between at least two of the first regions A3 to D3. In this case, any first region (for example, first regions A3 and B3 on the upper side) corresponds to the high hardness region H, and another first region (for example, first regions C3 and D3 on the lower side) corresponds to the low hardness region L. The method for setting the hardness difference applies to <FIG> and <FIG>.

The number disposed, position, size, shape and so on of the recesses 203A to 203D shown in <FIG>, <FIG>, and <FIG> are not particularly limited. The number of display regions A1 to D1 disposed and the number of recesses 203A to 203D disposed may be the same or different. For example, a single display region A1 to D1 may be formed by a plurality of recesses 203A to 203D. A plurality of display regions A1 to D1 may be formed by a single recess 203A to 203D. The positions of openings of the recesses 203A to 203D are not particularly limited. The recesses 203A to 203D may open on the front surface or the back surface of the design layer <NUM>. In the case where the recesses 203A to 203D open on the front surface of the design layer <NUM>, positions of bottoms of the recesses 203A to 203D may be within the design layer <NUM>, on the front surface of the front-side electrode layer <NUM>, within the front-side electrode layer <NUM>, or the like. In the case where the recesses 203A to 203D open on the back surface of the design layer <NUM>, the positions of the bottoms of the recesses 203A to 203D may be within the design layer <NUM>, on the back surface of the intermediate layer <NUM>, within the intermediate layer <NUM>, or the like.

Among the intermediate layer <NUM>, the design layer <NUM>, and the front-side electrode layer <NUM>, it is sufficient if the display regions A1 to D1 are disposed in at least the design layer <NUM> according to the number disposed, position, size, shape and so on of the recesses 203A to 203D. That is, it is sufficient if the design layer <NUM> includes at least a portion of the display regions A1 to D1.

The on/off mode of the light sources 90A to 90D is not particularly limited. The interior member <NUM> may include a trigger sensor for turning on the light sources 90A to 90D. The light sources 90A to 90D may be always on. The light sources 90A to 90D may be turned on and off in conjunction with vehicle lights (such as an interior light or a headlight).

A design displayed on the first exposed part <NUM> by the display regions A1 to D1 (recesses 203A to 203D) is not particularly limited. Examples thereof include a design (at least one selected from a pattern, a letter, a shape, and a symbol) disposed as the "input position notification member" described above. The design displayed on the first exposed part <NUM> may be in a single color or in multiple colors. It is sufficient if the color or colors are exhibited on the first exposed part <NUM> by at least one selected from the skin layer <NUM>, the intermediate layer <NUM>, the design layer <NUM>, and the light sources 90A to 90D.

The light transmitting property of the skin layer <NUM> and the intermediate layer <NUM> is not particularly limited. The skin layer <NUM> and the intermediate layer <NUM> may be colorless transparent, colored transparent, or semitransparent. The design layer <NUM> may not have a light non-transmitting property. That is, it is sufficient if the design layer <NUM> has a lower light transmitting property than the intermediate layer <NUM>. The color (hue, saturation, or brightness) of the skin layer <NUM>, the intermediate layer <NUM>, the design layer <NUM>, and the light sources 90A to 90D is not particularly limited. The luminance of the light sources 90A to 90D is not particularly limited.

The type, number disposed, and position of the light sources 90A to 90D are not particularly limited. The light sources 90A to 90D may be organic EL sheets, inorganic EL sheets, phosphorescent sheets, or the like. The light source part <NUM> may include the light sources 90A to 90D and a light guide plate (for example, an acrylic plate). The light sources 90A to 90D may be disposed adjacent to the first base material <NUM> in a plane direction to cause a front surface of the first base material <NUM> to emit light from the surface.

The interior part in which the interior member <NUM> is disposed is not particularly limited. Examples thereof include a door trim, a seat, a floor, a ceiling, an instrument panel, a glove box, a steering wheel, a center console, and a register. An installation surface of the interior member <NUM> in the interior part may be a flat surface or a curved surface. A direction (front-back direction) in which the interior member <NUM> is installed is not particularly limited. The interior member <NUM> may be disposed in an interior part of, other than vehicles, a ship, an aircraft, a building, or a house.

A layer configuration of the interior member <NUM> is not particularly limited. Of the first skin material <NUM>, the sensor part <NUM>, the flexible part <NUM>, and the base <NUM>, another layer may be interposed between two layers adjacent in the front-back direction. The same applies to configurations within each layer (for example, the configurations of the skin layer <NUM>, the intermediate layer <NUM>, and the design layer <NUM> within the first exposed part <NUM> of the first skin material <NUM>). Another layer may be disposed on the front side of the first skin material <NUM>. The same applies to the second skin material <NUM>. In the above embodiments, the skin material is composed of two divided bodies (first skin material <NUM> and second skin material <NUM>), but the number of divided bodies is not particularly limited.

The material of the skin layers <NUM>, <NUM> and the second skin material <NUM> is not particularly limited. Examples thereof include synthetic leather, resin, elastomers, nonwoven fabrics, and various fabrics (such as woven fabrics and knitted fabrics). Specific examples of synthetic leather, resin, and elastomers include acrylic, polyethylene terephthalate, polycarbonate, polyvinyl chloride, silicone, epoxy, polyurethane, styrene-based thermoplastic elastomers, olefin-based thermoplastic elastomers, and dynamic crosslinking thermoplastic elastomers. Examples of nonwoven fabrics and various fabrics include polyester, polypropylene, nylon, and cotton. The skin layers <NUM>, <NUM> and the second skin material <NUM> may contain a coloring agent (such as colored polyethylene), a light diffusing agent (such as silicone, acrylic, and titanium oxide), and a light absorbing agent (such as titanium black and carbon black).

The material of the intermediate layers <NUM> and <NUM> is not particularly limited. Examples thereof include resin and elastomers, such as acrylic, polyethylene terephthalate, polycarbonate, polyvinyl chloride, silicone, polyester, epoxy, polyurethane, styrene-based thermoplastic elastomers, olefin-based thermoplastic elastomers, and dynamic crosslinking thermoplastic elastomers. The intermediate layers <NUM> and <NUM> may contain the coloring agent, light diffusing agent, and light absorbing agent described above.

The material of the design layers <NUM> and <NUM> is not particularly limited. Examples thereof include resin and elastomers, such as acrylic, polyethylene terephthalate, polycarbonate, polyvinyl chloride, silicone, polyester, epoxy, polyurethane, styrene-based thermoplastic elastomers, olefin-based thermoplastic elastomers, and dynamic crosslinking thermoplastic elastomers. The design layers <NUM> and <NUM> may contain the coloring agent, light diffusing agent, and light absorbing agent described above.

The material of the first flexible layer <NUM> and the second flexible layer <NUM> is not particularly limited. Examples thereof include elastomers such as styrene-based thermoplastic elastomers, olefin-based thermoplastic elastomers, and dynamic crosslinking thermoplastic elastomers, and foam such as polyurethane foam. In the case where the first flexible layer <NUM> includes the through holes 700A to 700D, the light transmitting property due to the material is not required.

Regarding the sensors 4A to 4D, the material of the insulation layer (insulation layers <NUM> and <NUM>) is not particularly limited. The thermoplastic elastomer for the insulation layer is not particularly limited, and may be appropriately selected from styrene-based, olefin-based, vinyl chloride-based, urethane-based, ester-based, and amide-based elastomers. One type or two or more types of thermoplastic elastomers may be used. Examples of the styrene-based thermoplastic elastomer include styrene-butadiene-styrene block copolymer (SBS), styrene-ethylene-butylene-styrene block copolymer (SEBS), and styrene-ethylene-propylene-styrene block copolymer (SEPS). Examples of the olefin-based elastomer include, in addition to ethylene ethyl acrylate (EEA), ethylene methyl acrylate (EMA), and ethylene methyl methacrylate copolymer (EMMA), copolymer (ethylene-octene copolymer) of ethylene and α-olefin.

Rubber, resin, or foam other than thermoplastic elastomers may be used for the insulation layer. Examples thereof include: rubber such as ethylene propylene rubber (ethylene propylene copolymer (EPM) or ethylene propylene diene terpolymer (EPDM)), or resin such as acrylic, polyethylene terephthalate, polycarbonate, polyvinyl chloride, silicone, polyester, and epoxy, and foam such as polyurethane foam.

The material of the conductive layer (front-side conductive layer (front-side electrode layer <NUM> and front-side wiring layer <NUM>) and back-side conductive layer (back-side electrode layer <NUM> and back-side wiring layer <NUM>)) is not particularly limited. The conductive layer preferably has conductivity and is flexible. Examples of the material of the conductive layer include conductive rubber and conductive cloth.

The conductive rubber includes an elastomer and a conductive material. As the elastomer, at least one selected from crosslinked rubbers such as acrylic rubber, silicone rubber, urethane rubber, urea rubber, fluororubber, nitrile rubber, and hydrogenated nitrile rubber, and thermoplastic elastomers may be used. The conductive material may be appropriately selected from among: metal particles made of silver, gold, copper, nickel, rhodium, palladium, chromium, titanium, platinum, iron, and alloys thereof; metal oxide particles made of zinc oxide, titanium oxide or the like; metal carbide particles made of titanium carbonate or the like; metal nanowires made of silver, gold, copper, platinum, nickel, or the like; and conductive carbon materials such as carbon black, carbon nanotube, graphite, thin layer graphite, and graphene. The conductive rubber may contain a crosslinking agent, a crosslinking accelerator, a dispersant, a reinforcing material, a plasticizer, an anti-aging agent, a coloring agent, or the like.

As the conductive cloth, a woven fabric, a nonwoven fabric, or the like of conductive fibers may be used. Examples of the conductive fibers include those obtained by plating highly conductive copper, nickel, or the like on polyester fibers such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET).

The material of the first base material <NUM> and the second base material <NUM> is not particularly limited. Examples thereof include resin and elastomers, such as acrylic, polyethylene terephthalate, polycarbonate, polyvinyl chloride, silicone, polyester, epoxy, polyurethane, styrene-based thermoplastic elastomers, olefin-based thermoplastic elastomers, and dynamic crosslinking thermoplastic elastomers. In order to ensure the shape retention of the interior member <NUM>, it is sufficient if the first base material <NUM> and the second base material <NUM> are harder than the other layers (first skin material <NUM>, second skin material <NUM>, sensor part <NUM>, first flexible layer <NUM>, and second flexible layer <NUM>).

A member (for example, base <NUM>, flexible part <NUM>, and sensor part <NUM>) interposed between the light sources 90A to 90D and the display regions A1 to D1 may have a light transmitting property or a light diffusing property. A method for imparting the light diffusing property to these members is not particularly limited. For example, in a transparent base material, a light diffusing agent (such as silicone, acrylic, or titanium oxide) having a different refractive index from the base material may be dispersed. These members may have a light introduction hole.

A method for laminating the skin layer <NUM>, the intermediate layer <NUM>, and the design layer <NUM> in the first skin material <NUM> shown in <FIG> is not particularly limited. Screen printing, gravure printing, inkjet printing, flexo printing or the like may be used. The layers may be laminated by bonding, vapor deposition or the like. The same applies to a method for laminating the skin layer <NUM>, the intermediate layer <NUM>, and the design layer <NUM>. A method for forming the recesses 203A to 203D with respect to the first skin material <NUM> is not particularly limited. Laser processing, photoetching or the like may be used.

A method for fixing the sensors 4A to 4D, the first skin material <NUM> and the first flexible layer <NUM> shown in <FIG> is not particularly limited. For example, in the case where the installation surface of the interior member <NUM> in the interior part (instrument panel <NUM> shown in <FIG>) is a convex surface that bulges out to the front side, another layer (first flexible layer <NUM>, sensors 4A to 4D, and first skin material <NUM>) outside a radius of curvature of the curve come into pressure contact with the base <NUM> inside the radius of curvature. The sensors 4A to 4D, the first skin material <NUM> and the first flexible layer <NUM> can be fixed using the pressure contact force. In contrast, in the case where the installation surface of the interior member <NUM> in the interior part is a concave surface that bulges out to the back side, the pressure contact force described above does not act. In this case, the sensors 4A to 4D, the first skin material <NUM> and the first flexible layer <NUM> can be fixed using adhesive, double-sided tape or the like.

Claim 1:
An interior member (<NUM>) comprising:
a first skin material (<NUM>) comprising:
a first exposed part (<NUM>), exposed to a cabin interior; and
a first embedded part (<NUM>), embedded on a cabin exterior side from the first exposed part (<NUM>);
a second skin material (<NUM>) comprising:
a second exposed part (<NUM>), exposed to the cabin interior and adjacent to the first exposed part (<NUM>); and
a second embedded part (<NUM>), embedded on the cabin exterior side from the second exposed part (<NUM>) and joined to the first embedded part (<NUM>); and
a transducer (4A to 4D) comprising:
a main body (<NUM>), disposed directly back of the first exposed part (<NUM>); and
a wiring part (<NUM>), disposed directly back of at least the first embedded part (<NUM>) and electrically connected to the main body (<NUM>), wherein
an end (41a) of the wiring part (<NUM>) is disposed on the cabin exterior side of the first embedded part (<NUM>),
the interior member (<NUM>) being characterized by further comprising:
a first stitch (<NUM>), suturing the first embedded part (<NUM>) and the second embedded part (<NUM>), and sewing the wiring part (<NUM>) on the first embedded part (<NUM>).