Seat longitudinal adjustment device and seat

Abstract

Seat longitudinal adjustment device (2), comprising at least: - a pair of rails (3) and - at least one locking element (4) and - a separate actuating element (9) which is rotatably mounted about an actuating axis (BA) for actuating the locking element (4), wherein the rail pair (3) is formed from an upper rail (31) and a lower rail (32) which are movable relative to each other, wherein the actuating element (9) is designed as an actuating lever which is rotatably mounted on the upper rail (31), wherein the at least one locking element (4) is rotatably arranged on the upper rail (31) about an axis of rotation between a locking position (S1) and an intermediate position (S3) and in the locking position (S1) blocks a movement of the upper rail (31) in the lower rail (32) and in an unlocking position (S2) releases a movement, and wherein the locking element (4) has a number of projections (41) which are designed such that, viewed in the longitudinal direction (X) of the locking element (4) in the locking position (S1) a front projection (41.1) contacts the lower rail (32) and a rear projection (41.2) contacts the upper rail (31) or vice versa, and wherein the actuating axis (BA) of the actuating element (9) and the rotation axis of the locking element (4) are offset from each other, wherein the locking element (4) is arranged and designed such that, upon unlocking, it is first rotatable in the locking position (S1) in a certain area and then adjustable to the unlocking position (S2), and wherein the locking element (4) can be moved from the locking position (S1) to the unlocking position (S2) by means of a combined rotary-pulling movement or in an arc-shaped manner.

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a seat longitudinal adjustment device for a seat and to a seat, in particular a vehicle seat, with such a seat longitudinal adjustment device.

[0002] A seat length adjustment device generally comprises two spaced-apart pairs of rails, each composed of two rails: an upper rail associated with the seat and a lower rail associated with the floor of a vehicle. The seat length adjustment device further comprises at least one spring-loaded, movable, plate-shaped locking part, which is mounted on the upper rail and, in a locked position, blocks movement of the upper rail in the lower rail. The lower rail may have apertures, while the upper rail is provided with openings, and the locking part carries projections on its two opposite longitudinal sides, which, in the locked position, can be moved by a spring into both the openings and the apertures.Such a seat longitudinal adjustment device is known, for example, from the European patent EP 1 227 950 B1 or the German publications DE 10 2014 214 184 A1 or DE 10 2011 012 077 B4.

[0003] The object of the present invention is to provide an improved seat longitudinal adjustment device and a seat with an improved seat longitudinal adjustment device.

[0004] With regard to the seat longitudinal adjustment device, the object is achieved according to the invention with the features of claim 1. With regard to the seat, the object is achieved according to the invention with the features of claim 8.

[0005] Advantageous further training is the subject of dependent claims.

[0006] The object is achieved according to the invention with a seat length adjustment device which comprises at least one pair of rails and at least one locking element, wherein the pair of rails is formed from an upper rail and a lower rail which are movable relative to one another, and wherein the at least one locking element is movably arranged on the upper rail and blocks a movement of the upper rail in the lower rail in a locking position and releases a movement in an unlocking position, and wherein the locking element has a number of projections which are designed such that, viewed in the longitudinal direction of the locking element, in the locking position a front projection contacts the lower rail and a rear projection contacts the upper rail or vice versa.

[0007] The advantages achieved by the invention consist in particular in the fact that by means of such a locking element, in particular a spring-loaded one, with a projection that contacts the upper rail in the locking position and a projection that contacts the lower rail in the locking position, a particularly simple play elimination between the lower rail (also called guide rail) and the upper rail (also called rail runner) is possible. In addition, a simple tensioning and catching function for the locking element is provided without additional components by utilizing a combined movement of rotation and pulling movement. For example, the locking element is held pre-tensioned by means of a spring element. A blocking element enables a catching function for the locking element in the locking position in order to hold the locking element in its locking position and thus lock the pair of rails.By means of a combined rotary movement and pulling movement of the locking element during its unlocking, this catch function and thus the blocking of the locking element by the blocking element is bypassed, so that the pair of rails is unlocked and the upper rail is movable, in particular adjustable, relative to the lower rail.

[0008] The locking element is designed as a horizontal locking mechanism and locks the upper rail and lower rail to each other in a simple manner with a clearance-free arrangement. In other words, the upper rail and lower rail are pre-tensioned relative to each other in the locking position by means of the locking element, which is particularly spring-loaded. For example, the locking element is designed as a locking plate from which several projections, particularly teeth, protrude laterally on at least one of the sides, particularly a long side. The locking element can also be designed as a double locking mechanism.

[0009] A further development provides, in the locking position of the locking element, a single contact area of ​​the locking element with the upper rail and a single contact area of ​​the locking element with the lower rail.

[0010] For example, the only contact area, in particular viewed in the longitudinal direction, with the upper rail is formed by contact between the rear projection and the upper rail or contact between the front projection and the upper rail. The only contact area, in particular viewed in the longitudinal direction, with the lower rail is formed, for example, between the rear projection and the lower rail or between the front projection and the lower rail. Preferably, the front projection contacts the upper rail when the rear projection contacts the lower rail. Alternatively, the rear projection contacts the upper rail when the front projection contacts the lower rail.

[0011] In addition, the locking element is also guided vertically into locking openings or locking apertures in the upper rail and / or the lower rail.

[0012] For example, the locking element has a plurality of projections, wherein only one of the projections, in particular a frontmost projection as viewed in the longitudinal direction, makes contact with the lower rail and only one of the other projections, in particular a rearmost projection as viewed in the longitudinal direction, makes contact with the upper rail, or vice versa. The remaining projections between the frontmost projection and the rearmost projection are arranged in the locking position without contact or without contact with the upper rail and lower rail. In other words: only a single one of the projections of the locking element makes contact with or rests on the upper rail in the locking position, and only a single one of the projections of the locking element makes contact with or rests on the lower rail in the locking position.

[0013] In particular, the longitudinally front projection or the rear projection of the locking element contacts the upper rail. For example, one side of the front projection or the rear projection abuts one side of a corresponding opening or through-hole in the upper rail. Furthermore, the longitudinally rear projection or the front projection of the locking element contacts the lower rail. For example, one side of the rear projection or the front projection abuts one side of a corresponding through-hole or through-hole in the lower rail.

[0014] A further embodiment provides that the front projection and / or the rear projection of the locking element are conical. In particular, the front projection and / or the rear projection are conical, which contact the upper rail and / or the lower rail in a contact area, in particular, which bears against them in some areas.

[0015] In one possible embodiment, the front projection, in particular a front tooth, has a conical region in the contact area with the lower rail (also called guide rail or guide profile). The rear projection, in particular a rear tooth, has a conical region in the contact area with the upper rail (also called rail runner). The front projection can be the frontmost projection. The rear projection can be the rearmost projection. The remaining projections, in particular those between the front projection and the rear projection, are contactless in the locked position. This means that these remaining projections do not contact either the upper rail or the lower rail. This enables a comfortable unlocking movement and unlocking force, since only the frictional force or contact force of the front and rear projections has to be overcome during unlocking.Furthermore, the remaining projections are designed in such a way that they only come into contact with the upper rail and the lower rail under higher longitudinal loads, in particular in the event of an accident load, for example a rear-end collision.

[0016] In particular, the locking element is spring-loaded and movably mounted on the upper rail of the rail pair. For example, the locking element is arranged and designed such that, upon unlocking, it can first be partially rotated in the locked position into an intermediate position and then moved from the intermediate position into an unlocked position, in particular, it can be moved linearly or arcuately or pulled out.

[0017] For example, the locking element is held or arranged in the locking position in a force-locking, particularly friction-locking, manner in the transverse direction and is movable to a limited extent in the vertical direction. In particular, the locking element locks the upper rail and lower rail in the longitudinal direction.

[0018] To unlock the upper rail and lower rail, the locking element can be adjusted from the locking position to the unlocking position by means of a combined twist-pull movement. For example, in the locking position, the locking element can first be moved out of the force-locking holder by means of a rotation and then moved, in particular pulled out, into the unlocking position by means of a pulling movement, in particular a linear or arcuate movement.

[0019] A further development provides an actuating element for the locking element, wherein the actuating element is arranged in an interior space formed between the upper rail and the lower rail. In particular, the actuating element is arranged within the upper rail. Such an arrangement of the actuating element within a respective pair of rails enables a particularly compact arrangement.

[0020] For example, the top rail has a through-opening through which the actuating element can be actuated.

[0021] The invention further relates to a seat, in particular a vehicle seat, with the previously described seat longitudinal adjustment device. The seat longitudinal adjustment device comprises, in particular, two pairs of rails arranged at a distance from one another, each pair of rails having a locking element. Each pair of rails is formed from an upper rail and a lower rail, which are movable relative to one another.

[0022] Embodiments of the invention are explained in more detail with reference to the drawings. In the drawings: Fig. 1 schematically shows in perspective a seat, in particular a vehicle seat, with a seat longitudinal adjustment device comprising two pairs of rails, Fig. 2 schematically shows a sectional view through a pair of rails in the region of an engagement opening for actuating a locking element arranged in a locking position, Fig. 3 schematically shows a sectional view through the pair of rails in the area of ​​a holder of a return element for the locking element, Fig. 4 schematically shows a perspective view of an upper side of a top rail, Fig. 5 schematically shows a perspective view of an underside of the top rail, Fig. 6 schematically shows an enlarged section of the Fig. 5 in the area of ​​the locking element Fig. 7 schematically shows in section a part of a sequence of unlocking the locking element, wherein the locking element is arranged in the locking position, Fig. 8 schematically shows in section a subsequent part of the sequence of unlocking the locking element according to Fig. 7, wherein the locking element is set in an intermediate position, and Fig. 9 schematically shows in section a subsequent part of the sequence of unlocking the locking element according to Fig. 8, wherein the locking element is set in an unlocking position.

[0023] Corresponding parts are provided with the same reference numerals in all figures.

[0024] Fig. 1 shows a schematic perspective view of a seat 1, in particular a vehicle seat, with a seat longitudinal adjustment device 2. The seat 1 is arranged by means of the seat longitudinal adjustment device 2, for example, on a vehicle body not shown in detail.

[0025] The one in the Fig. 1 is described below using three spatial directions running perpendicular to one another. A longitudinal direction X, when a seat 1 is installed in the vehicle, runs largely horizontally and preferably parallel to a vehicle longitudinal direction that corresponds to the normal direction of travel of the vehicle. A transverse direction Y, which runs perpendicular to the longitudinal direction X, is also oriented horizontally in the vehicle and runs parallel to a vehicle transverse direction. A vertical direction Z runs perpendicular to the longitudinal direction X and perpendicular to the transverse direction Y. When a seat 1 is installed in the vehicle, the vertical direction Z preferably runs parallel to a vehicle vertical axis.

[0026] The position and direction specifications used, such as front, rear, top, and bottom, refer to the viewing direction of an occupant sitting in seat 1 in a normal seating position, with seat 1 installed in the vehicle, in a position suitable for passenger transport with the backrest 1.1 upright and oriented in the direction of travel as usual. However, seat 1 can also be installed or moved in a different orientation, for example, opposite to the direction of travel.

[0027] The seat longitudinal adjustment device 2 comprises, for example, two pairs of rails 3 arranged at a distance from one another. Each pair of rails 3 comprises an upper rail 31, also called a rail runner or seat rail, and a lower rail 32, also called a guide rail or floor rail. The upper rail 31 is arranged on the lower rail 32 so that it can be adjusted longitudinally between a front end position and a rear end position. This adjustability allows a longitudinal adjustment of the position of the seat 1, with the front end position of the upper rail 31 being assigned to the frontmost position of the seat 1, and the rearmost position of the upper rail 31 being assigned to the rearmost position of the seat 1.

[0028] The seat longitudinal adjustment device 2 further comprises at least one locking element 4. Each pair of rails 3 can comprise an associated locking element 4, as will be described below with reference to the Fig. 2 to 6 are described in more detail.

[0029] Fig. 2 shows a schematic sectional view through one of the rail pairs 3 in the area of ​​the associated locking element 4.

[0030] Fig. 3 shows a schematic sectional view through another alternative pair of rails 3 in the area of ​​the associated locking element 4. The two pairs of rails 3 are essentially constructed in the same way.

[0031] The at least one or the respective locking element 4 is designed as a double lock.

[0032] The at least one locking element 4 is spring-loaded and movably mounted or arranged on the upper rail 31, in particular rotatably and movably mounted, in particular adjustable or arcuately movable by means of a combined rotary and pulling movement. The locking element 4 is guided, for example, in the locking holes or openings 34 of the upper rail 31, in particular during a pivoting of the locking element 4 in the locking position S1. During an unlocking movement from the locking position S1 into the unlocking position S2, the locking element 4 is unlocked by means of the combined rotary-pulling movement controlled by the actuating element 9. The locking element 4 has no defined axis of rotation.

[0033] In addition, a Fig. 2 to 9, a return element 11 is provided, in particular a return spring. The return element 11 is held at one end on the upper rail 31 and at the other end on the locking element 4. The locking element 4 locks in a locking position S1, as shown in Fig. 2, Fig. 3 and Fig. 7, a movement of the upper rail 31 in the lower rail 32. During unlocking, the return element 11 is tensioned. When the unlocking force is removed, the return element 11 relaxes, so that the locking element 4 is automatically returned to the locking position S1 by means of the return element 11. The return element 11, in particular its spring force, is designed such that it presses the locking element 4 into the locking position S1. In other words:

[0034] The locking element 4 is spring-loaded into the locking position S1, in particular pressed, so that the upper rail 31 and the lower rail 32 are arranged with no play relative to one another.

[0035] In particular, the locking element 4 is arranged and designed in such a way that when unlocked, it initially moves partially in the locking position S1 into an intermediate position S3 (shown in Fig. 8) and then from the intermediate position S3 into an unlocking position S2 (shown in Fig. 9) is adjustable, in particular linearly or arcuately movable or extendable.

[0036] For example, in the locking position S1, the locking element 4 is held in a force-locking, in particular friction-locking, manner in the transverse direction Y and is movable to a limited extent in the vertical direction Z. In particular, the locking element 4 locks the upper rail 31 and the lower rail 32 in the longitudinal direction X.

[0037] To unlock the lock of the upper rail 31 and lower rail 32, the respective locking element 4 is Fig. 2 or Fig. 3 in the locking position S1 by means of rotation about a rotation axis in the longitudinal direction X, initially movable out of the force-locking holder, in particular movable into the intermediate position S3 (shown in Fig. 8), and movable, in particular withdrawable, from the intermediate position S3 into the unlocking position S2 by means of the linear or arcuate movement.

[0038] In the Fig. In the unlocking position S2 shown in Figure 9, the locking element 4 releases a movement of the upper rail 31 to the lower rail 32. The locking element 4 is arranged and designed such that, upon unlocking, it can first be partially rotated in the locking position S1 and then adjusted, in particular pulled out, into the unlocking position S2 (also called the release position). The movement sequence during unlocking is described below using the Fig. 7 to 9 described in detail.

[0039] In addition, the seat longitudinal adjustment device 2 comprises a stop element or blocking element 98 (shown in Fig. 2, 3 and 5 to 9), which at least limits or blocks undesired movements of the locking element 4 from the locking position S1. The blocking element 98 is designed, for example, as a profile body that extends along the longitudinal direction X. The blocking element 98 is arranged within the upper rail 31 and fastened thereto, in particular welded. The blocking element 98 can additionally be designed as a bearing for the actuating element 9.

[0040] The blocking element 98 is arranged within the upper rail 31 parallel to the locking element 4. The blocking element 98 extends in the longitudinal direction X at least over the entire length of the locking element 4. The blocking element 98 can be longer than the locking element 4. The blocking element 98 has a correspondingly shaped stop surface 99 along the side facing the locking element 4. This prevents dynamic movement of the locking element 4. The blocking element 98 enables a catch function for the locking element 4 in its locking position S1.

[0041] By means of the combined rotary movement and pulling movement of the locking element 4 during its unlocking, this catch function and thus the blocking of the locking element 4 by the blocking element 98 is bypassed, so that the pair of rails 3 is unlocked and the upper rail 31 is movable, in particular adjustable, relative to the lower rail 32.

[0042] The locking element 4 is designed as a horizontal lock in the longitudinal direction X. The locking element 4 locks only in the longitudinal direction X. The upper rail 31, also called a rail runner, is guided vertically via the rollers 61. Furthermore, the locking element 4 is frictionally held on at least one of the rails 31, 32, in particular the upper rail 31. For example, the locking element 4 is designed as a locking plate. With the help of the spring-loaded locking element 4, a simple play-free adjustment between the lower rail 32 and the upper rail 31 is achieved. The blocking element 98 (also called a horizontal stop) prevents the locking element 4 from dynamically moving out of its locking position S1.

[0043] Fig. 2 shows in detail a sectional view through the pair of rails 3 in the region of an engagement opening 42 for actuating the locking element 4, which is arranged in the locking position S1.

[0044] To block the movement of the upper rail 31 to the lower rail 32 in order to prevent a seat shift, the lower rail 32 is provided with a number of openings 33 and the upper rail 31 is provided with a number of openings 34 (shown in Fig. 2 to 9). In the locking position S1, projections 41, in particular tooth-shaped projections 41, of the locking element 4 engage in these openings 33, in particular slot-shaped through-openings, and openings 34, in particular slot-shaped or comb-like openings, so that movement between the upper rail 31 and the lower rail 32 is blocked. In particular, the projections 41 of the locking element 4 are held and fixed in a frictionally engaged manner on at least one of the rails 31, 32, in particular in the openings 33 of the upper rail 31, in the locking position S1.

[0045] The upper rail 31 is formed from a U-shaped bent sheet metal profile. The lower rail 32 is formed, for example, from a pressed aluminum profile. For example, the upper rail 31 can be a bent steel profile with welded steel components, such as the welded blocking element 98. The profiles can be designed such that the cross-sectionally free ends 35 of both the upper rail 31 and the lower rail 32 interlock, thereby largely securing the upper rail 31 in the vertical direction Z (Z-axis direction).

[0046] In the mounted position of the upper rail 31 on the lower rail 32, these delimit a cavity 5 inside the seat longitudinal adjustment device 2.

[0047] A longitudinal adjustment of the seat 1 relative to the vehicle floor is achieved by a longitudinal displacement of the upper rail 31 relative to the lower rail 32. The upper rail 31 and the lower rail 32 are only in contact with each other in certain guide areas via rolling elements 6. By at least one or more of these rolling elements 6, the upper rail 31 (also called rail runner) is spring-loaded in the vertical direction Z (Z-axis direction) in normal operation during a longitudinal seat adjustment in the vertical direction X (X-axis direction) and is movable in the longitudinal direction X (X-axis direction). In the remaining area, the lower rail 32 and the upper rail 31 are spring-loaded due to the bearings via the rolling elements 6 and are thus arranged at a distance from each other without play.

[0048] For spring preloading the upper rail 31 to the lower rail 32 via the at least one rolling element 6, a preloading element 7 is provided, which is arranged within the upper rail 31.

[0049] The preload element 7 is arranged in the cavity 5. The preload element 7 enables easy clearance between the lower rail 32 and the upper rail 31, even during a longitudinal adjustment of the seat 1. The movable upper rail 31 is moved in the lower rail 32 by spring preload.

[0050] For this purpose, the preload element 7 is designed as a multifunctional component that simultaneously serves as a support, spring, and bearing for at least one or more of the rolling elements 6. The preload element 7 is, in particular, a profile element, a formed sheet metal part, or a stamped sheet metal part.

[0051] For example, the prestressing element 7 comprises a carrier region 71 formed from a carrier sheet. The carrier region 71 is shaped, in particular bent, such that a bearing region 72 and a spring region 73 are formed. The spring region 73 can be designed, for example, as a leaf spring with an internal hole, for example in the form of an elongated hole. The spring region 73 can be bent several times. The bearing region 72 is designed to receive a bearing pin for a first rolling element 61, in particular two bearing journals 60 for two first rolling elements 61 (as in Fig. 5). The first rolling element(s) 61 are designed, for example, as sliding cylinders or sliding rollers.

[0052] By means of the preload element 7, which is supported on the lower rail 32 via the first rolling elements 61 and on the upper rail 31 via the spring region 73, the corresponding preload is generated in order to achieve the play-free clearance between the rails 31, 32 of the respective rail pair 3. In other words: The invention enables a movable upper rail 31 with at least one or more spring-biased first rolling elements 61 relative to the lower rail 32 to prevent free play in the lower rail 32 or in the guide rail.

[0053] For example, the first rolling elements 61 are rotatably mounted on the prestressing element 7 and are arranged on the upper rail 31, in particular the rail runner, in a spring-loaded manner by means of the prestressing element 7. The spring region 73 of the prestressing element 7, supported on the upper rail 31 (rail runner), transfers the prestress to the bearing region 72 and, via this, to the first rolling element(s) 61, which are / are arranged on the lower rail 32 in a spring-loaded manner via openings or recesses 381 in the upper rail 31 in the locking position S1 and / or roll / roll on a contact surface of the lower rail 32 in a spring-loaded manner in the unlocking position S2 or release position.

[0054] In addition, the seat longitudinal adjustment device 2 for longitudinally adjusting the seat 1 comprises at least one second rolling element 62, namely sliding rollers or sliding cylinders.

[0055] Depending on the arrangement of the preload element 7, the first rolling elements 61 (as shown) or the second rolling elements 62 (not shown) can be arranged on the upper rail 31 in a spring-loaded manner and roll resiliently on the lower rail 32. Thus, either the upper rolling elements 61 are fixed and the lower rolling elements 62 are cushioned by the preload element 7, or vice versa.

[0056] For fastening the lower rail 32 to the vehicle body, for example a vehicle floor, a fastening bolt 8 is provided which is passed through a through-opening of a floor section of the lower rail 32 in order to be fastened to the vehicle body.

[0057] For the longitudinal adjustment of the seat 1, the seat longitudinal adjustment device 2 also comprises an actuating element 9.

[0058] The actuating element 9 is arranged in the cavity 5 (also called interior space) formed between the upper rail 31 and the lower rail 32.

[0059] The upper rail 31 has a through opening 36 (in Fig. 3) by which the actuating element 9 can be actuated.

[0060] In the exemplary embodiment, the actuating element 9 is designed as an actuating lever, in particular a rotary lever, which is rotatably mounted on the upper rail 31. For this purpose, the actuating element 9 comprises a rotary bearing 95 (shown, for example, in Fig. 2), which is arranged on the upper rail 31. The actuating element 9 further comprises at least one actuating region 91 and a coupling region 92. The actuating region 91 is designed as an actuating arm or actuating projection.

[0061] In the embodiment according to Fig. 2, the actuating area 91 projects into the through opening 36 in the locking position S1, so that the actuating area 91 can be actuated through the open leg area 37 of the U-shaped lower rail 32 to unlock the locking element 4.

[0062] Alternatively, the actuating area 91 can also protrude through the through opening 36 and beyond the upper rail 31 and protrude into the open leg area 37 of the U-shaped lower rail 32 (not shown in detail), so that the actuating area 91 can be actuated to unlock the locking element 4.

[0063] In the embodiment according to Fig. 3, the actuating area 91 of the actuating element 9 projects into the through opening 36 and can be actuated from above through the open leg area 37 of the U-shaped lower rail 32 to unlock the locking element 4.

[0064] The coupling region 92 is configured to correspond to the contact region of the locking element 4. The coupling region 92 comprises at least one hook-shaped projection 93 and a control cam 94. For example, the locking element 4 comprises the engagement opening 42, into which the hook-shaped projection 93 of the coupling region 92 engages. The control cam 94 rests against an upper side of the locking element 4, which is in particular plate-shaped.

[0065] To unlock the locking element 4, the actuating element 9 is actuated, whereby the actuating area 91 is actuated in the direction of the through-opening 36 and into it, in particular pressed according to arrow P1 (as for example in Fig. 7).

[0066] In this case, the actuating element 9 is pivoted about an actuating axis BA according to arrow P2, so that the control cam 94 engaged with the locking element 4 first tilts or rotates the plate-shaped locking element 4 downwards according to arrow P31 (as also in Fig. 7 and Fig. 8). In particular, the plate-shaped part of the locking element 4 arranged in the cavity 5 is rotated downwards toward the lower rail 32 according to arrow P31. The actuating axis BA is identical to the axis 96.

[0067] As a result of the rotational movement of the locking element 4 at its inner end downwards according to arrow P31, the projections 41 of the locking element 4 are rotated or pivoted upwards according to arrow P33 in the locking position S1 within the openings 33 and the apertures 34, as shown in Fig. 7 and Fig. 8. Here, the projections 41 are released from the frictional engagement in the openings 33 of the upper rail 31. The projections 41 continue to penetrate the openings 34 of the upper rail 31 and the openings 33 of the lower rail 32.

[0068] The locking element 4 is set in an intermediate position S3, in Fig. 8. This is not a fixed position, but rather an intermediate position S3 of a continuous unlocking movement of the locking element 4, controlled by the actuating element 9, wherein the unlocking movement is a combined twist-pull movement. During the unlocking movement, the locking element 3 is first pressed downward within the upper rail 31 in order to escape the blocking area of ​​the blocking element 98. Subsequently, the locking element 4 is pulled past the blocking element 98 by means of a tensile force and into the upper rail 31, at least in part.

[0069] In this case, as well as by further actuation of the actuating area 91 into the cavity 5, in particular by further turning the actuating element 9 according to arrow P2, the hook-shaped projection 93 enters the engagement opening 42 until the hook-shaped projection 93 engages around the locking element 4 and, upon further actuation, pulls its projections 41 completely out of the openings 33 of the lower rails 32 according to arrow P32 (as also in Fig. 9). As a result, the locking element 4 with its, in particular tooth-like, projections 41 comes out of engagement with the comb-shaped or slot-shaped openings 33 of the lower rail 32, so that a release position or unlocking position S2 (shown in Fig. 9) and the upper rail 31 is movable relative to the lower rail 32, in particular longitudinally adjustable.

[0070] Fig. 3 shows the pair of rails 3 in the area of ​​a holder of the return element 11 on the locking element 4. A first end 11.1 (shown in Fig. 5) of the return element 11 is arranged and held in a receptacle 43 of the locking element 4. In particular, the first end 11.1 encompasses the plate-shaped part of the locking element 4 through the receptacle 43.

[0071] Furthermore, the through-opening 36 in the lower rail 32 for the actuating area 91 of the actuating element 9 is shown in detail. The actuating area 91 is designed as an actuating cam.

[0072] A spring 12 is provided for automatically returning the actuating element 9 to a normal or initial position. The spring 12 is arranged in the area of ​​the actuating axis BA of the actuating element 9. The spring 12 serves to return the actuating element 9 after an actuation to unlock the locking element 4.

[0073] Fig. 4 shows schematically a perspective view of an upper side 38 of the upper rail 31.

[0074] The actuating area 91 of the actuating element 9 projects into the through-opening 36. The tooth-shaped projections 41 of the locking element 4 are in the locking position S1 and project through the openings 33 in the upper rail 31.

[0075] Fastening elements 10 can be provided on the front side of the upper rail 31. The fastening elements 10 can be designed differently depending on the type of seat fastening. In the illustrated embodiment according to Fig. 4, the fastening elements 10 are designed as claw fasteners, each comprising a receiving opening 101 into which claws (not shown in detail) of the seat 1 engage. Alternatively, the fastening element 10 can be designed to fasten the seat 1 to the upper rail 31 by means of a screw connection or welded connection 102. The respective fastening element 10 is fastened to the upper rail 31 in a force-fitting, form-fitting, and / or material-fitting manner. For example, the respective fastening element 10 is fastened to the upper rail 31 by means of a welded connection 102.

[0076] For spring-loaded roller guidance, the upper rail 31 comprises 38 recesses 381 on its upper side (shown in Fig. 4), from which at least the first rolling elements 61 protrude in order to be mounted on the lower rail 32, as shown in Fig. 2 and Fig. 3. The first rolling elements 61 are resiliently preloaded and movably arranged on the upper rail 31 by means of the preloading element 7, and roll resiliently on a contact surface of the lower rail 32.

[0077] In addition, the upper rail 31 can comprise further recesses 382 on its upper side 38, into which the second rolling elements 62 at least protrude and run “freely”.

[0078] In addition, the upper rail 31 has at least one further recess 383 in the region of the locking element 4, in which a second end 11.2 of the return element 11 is held.

[0079] Further recesses 384 serve to accommodate the pivot bearing 95 (shown in Fig. 5) for the actuating element 9.

[0080] Fig. 5 shows a schematic perspective view of an underside 39 of the upper rail 31.

[0081] The return element 11, in particular a spring, such as a wire spring or bow spring, is held with the first end 11.1 on the locking element 4 in the receptacle 43.

[0082] As shown in this view, the locking element 4 can comprise two engagement openings 42. Correspondingly, the actuating element 9 then has two hook-shaped projections 93 that engage with these engagement openings 42.

[0083] The seat longitudinal adjustment device 2 comprises two second rolling elements 62, each arranged at one end of the upper rail 31. The second rolling elements 62, in particular the sliding elements for longitudinally adjusting the seat 1, are designed, for example, as roller cylinders or yarn spools. The second rolling elements 62 have a fixed axle that is attached to the upper rail 31 and on which the second rolling elements 62 rotate.

[0084] In addition, the seat longitudinal adjustment device 2 comprises two pretensioning elements 7, each of which is arranged between one of the second rolling elements 62 and the central locking element 4.

[0085] The support area 71 of the respective prestressing element 7 is flat and planar.

[0086] The respective spring area 73 is designed as a bow spring or punch spring or leaf spring.

[0087] A pair of first rolling elements 61 are rotatably mounted on the respective pre-tensioning element 7. For this purpose, the respective pre-tensioning element 7 comprises the bearing bolts or bearing journals 60 in the associated bearing area 72, which Fig. 5 are shown.

[0088] The pivot bearing 95 of the actuating element 9 comprises a fixed axis 96. The pivot bearing 95 is fastened on the inside to the upper rail 31, in particular by means of a weld seam 97.

[0089] The pivot bearing 95 is designed, for example, as a rod-shaped molded part for supporting and supporting the pivotable actuating element 9.

[0090] The pivot bearing 95 can simultaneously form a stop element or the blocking element 98, in particular a horizontal stop or transverse stop, for the locking element 4. Alternatively, the pivot bearing 95 and the blocking element 98 can be designed as separate components. The blocking element 98 is attached to the inside of the upper rail 31, in particular by means of the weld seam 97, and is integrally connected to the upper rail 31.

[0091] By means of the blocking element 98, horizontal or transverse movements of the locking element 4 can be at least limited or completely blocked, for example, due to mechanical stresses on the locking element 4, in particular in the event of excitations or vibrations in the horizontal direction or transverse direction Y (Y-axis direction), for example due to an accident. The blocking element 98 is arranged and configured such that the locking element 4 remains in the locking position S1 despite possible undesired horizontal or transverse movements.

[0092] Thus, the seat longitudinal adjustment device 2 is locked, and the seat 1 is fixed in its adjusted longitudinal position. The blocking element 98 is designed, for example, as a profiled body extending along the longitudinal direction X. The blocking element 98 is arranged within the upper rail 31 and is fastened thereto, in particular welded. The blocking element 98 can additionally be designed as a bearing for the actuating element 9.

[0093] The blocking element 98 is arranged within the upper rail 31 parallel to the locking element 4. The blocking element 98 extends in the longitudinal direction X at least over the entire length of the locking element 4. The blocking element 98 can have a greater length than the locking element 4. The blocking element 98 has a correspondingly shaped stop surface 99 along the side facing the locking element 4.

[0094] By means of the blocking element 98, a catching function for the locking element 4 in its locking position S1 is enabled.

[0095] By means of a combined rotary movement and pulling movement of the locking element 4 during its unlocking, this catch function and thus the blocking of the locking element 4 by the blocking element 98 is bypassed, so that the pair of rails 3 is unlocked and the upper rail 31 is movable, in particular adjustable, relative to the lower rail 32.

[0096] The pivot bearing 95 and the blocking element 98 can be formed as a single component or as separate components. In one possible embodiment, the blocking element 98 is formed as a molded component with the flat stop surface 99.

[0097] Fig. 6 shows schematically an enlarged section of the Fig. 5 in sectional view in the area of ​​the locking element 4.

[0098] Another simple embodiment for eliminating play between the upper rail 31 and lower rail 32 in the locking position S1 is provided by the spring-loaded locking element 4. For this purpose, the spring-loaded locking element 4 has a number of projections 41 which are designed such that, viewed in the longitudinal direction X (X-axis direction) of the locking element 4, in the locking position S1, a front projection 41.1, in particular the frontmost one, contacts the lower rail 32 and a rear projection 41.2, in particular the rearmost one, contacts the upper rail 31, or vice versa.

[0099] By means of such a spring-loaded locking element 4 with a rear projection 41.2 that contacts the upper rail 31 in the locking position S1 and a front projection 41.1 that contacts the lower rail 32 in the locking position S1, a particularly simple play-free adjustment between the lower rail 32 (also called the guide rail) and the upper rail 31 (also called the rail runner) is possible. The locking element 4 is designed as a horizontal lock. The upper rail 31 and lower rail 32 are pretensioned relative to each other in the locking position S1 by means of the spring-loaded locking element 4.

[0100] In one possible embodiment, the front projection 41.1, in particular a front tooth, has a conical region in the contact region K with the lower rail 32. The rear projection 41.2, in particular a rear tooth, has a conical region in the contact region K with the upper rail 31. Such a conical region in the contact region K of the only contacting projections 41.1 and 41.2 additionally provides a positive connection and / or frictional connection between these and the associated rail 32 or 31. In other words: the contacting projections 41.1 and 41.2 are preferably only conical in the contact region K.

[0101] The front projection 41.1 can be the foremost projection or tooth of the locking element 4. The rear projection 41.2 can be the rearmost projection of the locking element 4. The remaining projections 41, in particular those between the front projection 41.1 and the rear projection 41.2, are contactless in the locking position S1. This means that these remaining projections 41 make contact neither with the upper rail 31 nor with the lower rail 32. The remaining projections 41 are furthermore designed such that they only make contact with the upper rail 31 and the lower rail 32 under higher longitudinal loads, in particular during an accident load, for example, a rear-end collision.

[0102] In a further embodiment, at least one of the two contacting projections, either the front projection 41.1 or the rear projection 41.2 or both, has a greater width B in the longitudinal direction X (X-axis direction) than the remaining projections 41.

[0103] The conical shape of the front projection 41.1 and the rear projection 41.2 extends in particular over the respective associated contact area K.

[0104] In addition, all projections 41 and also the front projection 41.1 and the rear projection 41.2 have bevels or rounded portions at their free ends 41.3 in order not to tilt when locking or unlocking and thus when engaging or disengaging with the openings 34 in the upper rail 31 and the openings 33 in the lower rail 32.

[0105] Fig. 7 to 9 schematically show a sequence of unlocking the locking element 4, which is described in more detail below:

[0106] Fig. 7 corresponds to the embodiment according to Fig. 2. Please refer to the description Fig. 2.

[0107] At the beginning of an unlocking movement of the locking element 4, the actuating element 9 can be actuated mechanically or electromechanically according to arrow P1. Alternatively or additionally, the actuating element 9 can be rotated electromechanically according to arrow P2.

[0108] In this case, the actuating area 91 is moved in the direction of the through-opening 36 of the upper rail 31 and actuated into it, in particular pressed according to arrow P1, in order to be rotated or pivoted about an actuating axis BA according to arrow P2, so that the control cam 94 engaged with the locking element 4 initially tilts or rotates the plate-shaped locking element 4 downwards according to arrow P31. In this case, the actuating element 9 is rotated into the cavity 5. The locking element 4 still carries out the rotary movement or tilting movement according to arrows P31, P33, in particular only a slight rotary movement or tilting movement, as in Fig. 7 and Fig. 8 shown.

[0109] By further actuation of the actuating area 91, in particular turning according to arrow P2, into the cavity 5, the hook-shaped projection 93 enters the engagement opening 42 of the locking element 4 until the hook-shaped projection 93 engages around or behind the locking element 4, as shown in Fig. 9 is shown.

[0110] Upon further actuation of the actuating element 9, in particular rotation according to arrow P2, the locking element 4, in particular its free ends 41.3 of the projections 41, are completely moved, in particular pulled, out of the openings 33 of the lower rail 32 according to arrow P32. As a result, the locking element 4, with its particularly tooth-like projections 41, disengages from the comb-shaped or slot-shaped openings 33 of the lower rail 32, so that the locking element 4 is placed in its release position or unlocking position S2 and the upper rail 31 is movable, in particular longitudinally adjustable, relative to the lower rail 32. This provides a simple clamping and catching function for the spring-loaded locking element 4 without additional components by utilizing a combined movement of rotation and pulling movement.

[0111] The actuation of the actuating element 9 is carried out as a continuous movement, so that the locking element 4 is moved from the locking position S1 via the intermediate position S3 into the unlocking position S2 via a continuous combined rotary movement and pulling movement.

[0112] In addition to blocking the locking element 4 in the locking position S1 by means of the blocking element 98, this can also be designed as a stop element and, for example, be arranged on the upper rail 31 in such a way that the actuating movement of the actuating element 9 into the unlocking position S2 is at least limited or blocked. In particular, this movement of the actuating element 9 into the unlocking position S2 is limited or blocked by the blocking element 98 in such a way that the projections 41 of the locking element 4 in its unlocking position S2 continue to engage in the openings 34 of the upper rail 31, as in Fig. 9. The actuating element 9 strikes the blocking element 98 in the actuating direction according to arrow P2. List of reference symbols 1 seat 1.1 Backrest 2 seat length adjustment device 3 pairs of rails 31 Top rail 32 bottom rail 33 Breakthrough 34 Opening 35 free end 36 passage opening 37 Thigh area 38 Top of the head rail 381 to 384 recess 39 Underside of the top rail 4 locking element 41 lead 41.1 front projection 41.2 rear projection 41.3 free end 42 access opening 43 recording 5 Cavity 6 rolling element 60 bearing journals 61 first rolling element 62 second rolling element 7 Preload element 71 Carrier area 72 storage area 73 spring area 8 fastening bolts 9 Actuating element 91 Operating area 92 coupling area 93 hook-shaped projection 94 control cams 95 pivot bearings 96 Axis 97 Weld seam 98 Blocking element 99 Stop surface 10 Fastening element 101 Recording opening 102 Welded joint 11 Reset element 11.1 first end 11.2 second end 12 springs B Width BA actuating axis K Contact area P1, P2, P31, P32, P33 arrow S1 locking position S2 unlocking position S3 intermediate position X X-axis direction, longitudinal direction Y Y-axis direction, transverse direction Z Z-axis direction, vertical direction

Claims

[1] Seat longitudinal adjustment device (2), comprising at least: - a pair of rails (3) and - at least one locking element (4) and - a separate actuating element (9) which is rotatably mounted about an actuating axis (BA) for actuating the locking element (4), wherein the pair of rails (3) is formed from an upper rail (31) and a lower rail (32) which are movable relative to one another, wherein the actuating element (9) is designed as an actuating lever which is rotatably mounted on the upper rail (31), wherein the at least one locking element (4) is arranged on the upper rail (31) so as to be rotatable about a rotation axis between a locking position (S1) and an intermediate position (S3) and in the locking position (S1) blocks a movement of the upper rail (31) in the lower rail (32) and in an unlocking position (S2) releases a movement, and wherein the locking element (4) has a number of projections (41) which are designed such that, viewed in the longitudinal direction (X) of the locking element (4), in the locking position (S1), a front projection (41.1) contacts the lower rail (32) and a rear projection (41.2) contacts the upper rail (31) or vice versa, and wherein the actuating axis (BA) of the actuating element (9) and the rotational axis of the locking element (4) are offset from one another, wherein the locking element (4) is arranged and designed such that, upon unlocking, it can first be rotated in some areas in the locking position (S1) and then adjusted to the unlocking position (S2), and wherein the locking element (4) can be moved from the locking position (S1) into the unlocking position (S2) by means of a combined turning-pulling movement or in an arcuate manner. [2] Seat longitudinal adjustment device (2) according to claim 1, wherein the rear projection (41.2) or the front projection (41.1) which contacts the upper rail (31) is conical at least in some regions. [3] Seat longitudinal adjustment device (2) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the rear projection (41.2) or the front projection (41.1) which contacts the lower rail (32) is conical at least in some regions. [4] Seat longitudinal adjustment device (2) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the locking element (4) has a plurality of projections (41), wherein only one of the projections (41.1), in particular a frontmost projection (41.1), contacts the lower rail (32) and only one of the other projections (41.2), in particular a rearmost projection (41.2), contacts the upper rail (31) in the longitudinal direction (X) or vice versa. [5] Seat longitudinal adjustment device (2) according to claim 4, wherein remaining projections (41) between the frontmost projection (41.1) and the rearmost projection (41.2) in the locking position (S1) are contact-free in the longitudinal direction (X) with the upper rail (31) and lower rail (32). [6] Seat longitudinal adjustment device (2) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one locking element (4) is spring-loaded and movably arranged on the upper rail (31). [7] Seat longitudinal adjustment device (2) according to claim 6, wherein the locking element (4) is designed as a double lock. [8] Seat (1), in particular a vehicle seat, with a seat longitudinal adjustment device (2) according to one of the preceding claims.

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