Vehicle seat and vehicle hitching device

Description

1 / 8 VEHICLE SEAT AND VEHICLE HITCHING DEVICE Field of Invention

[0001] The present invention is situated in the field of systems and components for automobiles, more specifically in the development of a locking device for vehicle seats, intended to provide efficient locking of the seat backrest, with high structural resistance and ease of assembly. Background of the Invention

[0002] This patent application refers to an integrated support device for the rear seat harness and seatbelt reel, designed for the CC22 vehicle (New Citroen Basalt). Currently, conventional solutions employed for this application consist of two distinct stamped components that must be welded to the internal structure of the vehicle's C-pillar. These solutions present a number of technical and operational limitations that compromise both production efficiency and the final performance of the assembly.

[0003] 0 The typical design of the rear seat belt buckle is characterized by a complex geometry and reduced dimensions, which makes the manufacturing process more challenging. This configuration results in significant difficulties during the stamping of parts, especially during the deep drawing and deep drawing of the part, generating a high risk of rejected parts due to breakage. Furthermore, the welding process required for assembling the components is susceptible to failure; because the part has reduced dimensions, the density of weld points is low, generating a risk of weld rupture during the homologation tests of seat belt anchorage, regulated by the ECE R14 standard. These structural flaws directly affect vehicle safety and compromise compliance with regulatory requirements. [OOQ4]Another critical problem in existing solutions lies in the need to use MIG arc welding to attach the wire to the support. This process, in addition to increasing manufacturing complexity, raises costs and demands specialized labor, negatively impacting productivity and the economic viability of the solution. The reliance on this welding method also contributes to inconsistencies in structural performance, especially under high load conditions or in situations simulating impacts. Petition 870250011562, dated 12 / 02 / 2025, page 9 / 22 2 / 8

[0005] Additionally, the logistics process related to current solutions is costly, since the need for multiple components and separate processes increases the production chain and the costs associated with transportation, storage, and assembly. Quality management also becomes more complex, given the high number of variables involved in dimensional control and weld inspection.

[0006] Thus, there is a need for an innovative technical solution that resolves these limitations and problems. An approach that unifies the two components into a single piece can bring significant benefits, such as a reduction in the number of manufacturing steps, simplification of the assembly process, and improvement in dimensional consistency. Furthermore, the elimination of MIG arc welding and the introduction of cold forming of the steel wire of the rod itself, crimping it into the stamped support, represent a technical advancement, minimizing failures during homologation tests and reducing operational costs.

[0007] Therefore, the development of an integrated device that combines the support for the rear seat harness and the seat belt reel in a single, more robust and simpler-to-manufacture piece is fundamental to meeting regulatory requirements and improving production efficiency, while maintaining the safety and structural performance of the vehicle. Such a solution also has potential for application in other vehicle models that share similar requirements, expanding the technical and economic viability of the invention.

[0008] Some prior art documents have attempted to solve this problem, as can be seen below:

[0009] EP2471698 - This prior art discloses a vehicle rear body structure that enhances the support of a seat attachment, minimizing the need for large reinforcements. The structure includes a folding seat backrest, a curved inner panel of the rear wheel well, and a seat attachment that connects to the seat backrest. The design ensures high rigidity and effective load distribution, improving overall structural integrity and reducing component weight.

[0010] JP4314991 - This prior art discloses a rear seatbelt retractor structure that improves fastening strength and simplifies assembly. By integrating the retractor with an anchor plate connected to the rear interior panel and rear pillar reinforcement, the design increases safety in collisions. The configurations Petition 870250011562, dated 12 / 02 / 2025, page 10 / 22 Innovative 3 / 8-inch designs reduce complexity while ensuring robust support for both the seatbelt retractor and the seatback locking mechanism.

[0011] KR1020210102648 - This prior art discloses a seat coupling formed from a single metal rod, comprising an outer shape and a reinforcing part. This design increases strength and durability, solving weaknesses found in traditional seat couplings made of multiple materials. The manufacturing and installation method of the seat coupling also ensures structural integrity and ease of assembly.

[0012] Existing solutions fail to develop a seat coupling that combines high structural strength, enhanced durability, and simplicity in the manufacturing and installation process. The present invention proposes to solve these limitations by offering a technical alternative that integrates these characteristics efficiently and functionally. Objectives of the Invention

[0013] The present invention aims to provide a coupling device for vehicle seats that simplifies the manufacturing and assembly process, eliminating complex steps and reducing the number of components required. [OQ14]Another objective of the present invention is to ensure high structural strength and durability, meeting safety and performance requirements, even under severe operating conditions.

[0015] Additionally, the present invention seeks to ensure the adaptability of the device to different vehicle models, while maintaining functional efficiency, structural reliability and reduced production costs. Brief Description of the Invention

[0016] The present invention discloses a coupling device for vehicle seats, comprising at least one structural element and at least one metal rod.

[0017] The aforementioned structural element is configured to support and connect the device to the vehicle's structure. Furthermore, the aforementioned metal rod is integrated into the structural element and is configured to lock the seat backrest.

[0018] In addition, the metal rod has a reinforced section along its length. Petition 870250011562, dated 12 / 02 / 2025, page 11 / 22 4 / 8

[0019] Regarding the aforementioned metal rod, it is fixed to the structural element by cold forming the steel wire of the rod itself, crimping it into the stamped support. After crimping, the diameter of the crimped end becomes at least 1.6 times the original diameter of the wire.

[0020] Furthermore, the structural element is attached to the vehicle by means of fasteners. These fasteners are welding points.

[0021] Regarding the present invention, the structural element is manufactured from metallic material, and steels TRC440Y780T / DPC440Y780T / FBH440Y580T / LAC420Y480T from the Stellantis MS_50002 harmonized standard may be used in thicknesses between 1.2 and 2 mm, and the said metallic rod is manufactured from metallic material, more specifically SAE 1010 to 1020 steels according to SAE J403, with a minimum yield strength of 350 MPa and a minimum tensile strength of 510 MPa and a minimum diameter of 10 mm.

[0022] Still regarding the aforementioned metal rod being U-shaped and having rounded ends.

[0023] The aforementioned metal rod is also configured with a low-friction protective coating layer against oxidation.

[0024] Vehicle comprising at least one attachment device for vehicle seats as described previously in this descriptive report. Brief Description of the Drawings

[0025] The present invention will be described in more detail after the presentation of the figures, which contain a preferred configuration. The Figures show: Figure 1 illustrates a front view of the present invention installed in a vehicle. Figure 2 illustrates a view of the present invention not installed in a vehicle. Figure 3 illustrates the aforementioned structural element of the present invention. Figure 4 illustrates the aforementioned metal rod of the present invention.

[0026] The reference elements present in the figures are: 100 - coupling device for vehicle seats; 1 - structural element; 2 - metal rod; 3 - fastening element. Detailed Description of the Invention

[0027] Before the invention is detailed, it is important to understand that it is not limited to the specific components of the described device, as these may vary. It is also relevant to emphasize that the terminology used serves only to describe embodiments. Petition 870250011562, dated 12 / 02 / 2025, p. 12 / 22 5 / 8 particulars and should not be viewed as limiting. It should be noted that, as used in this descriptive report and associated claims, the singular forms a, an, or may refer to both singular and plural elements, unless the context indicates otherwise. Furthermore, when ranges of numerical parameters are provided, they are considered to include the limiting values.

[0028] It should also be understood that the modalities presented here should not be viewed in isolation or disconnected. The characteristics described for one modality are also applicable to the other modalities mentioned. If a specific characteristic is mentioned in one modality but not in another, the specialist in the field would understand that this does not necessarily imply that the characteristic should not be considered for the other modality. The specialist would understand that the objective of this request is to reveal the characteristic also for other modalities, but, for the sake of clarity and conciseness, this has not been explicitly stated in each case.

[0029] The present invention discloses a coupling device for vehicle seats 100, comprising at least one structural element 1 and at least one metal rod 2;

[0030] How the aforementioned structural element 1 is configured to support and connect the device to the vehicle structure;

[0031] The aforementioned metal rod 2 is integrated into the structural element 1 and is configured to lock the seat backrest, providing structural support and durability to the device.

[0032] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, said metal rod 2 has a reinforced section along its length, configured to increase impact resistance during collisions.

[0033] Regarding the aforementioned metal rod 2, it is preferably fixed to the structural element 1 by cold forming of the rod itself, crimping it and ensuring a secure and resistant connection. In alternative configurations of the present invention, the aforementioned metal rod is fixed to the structural element 1 by means of MIG / MAG arc welding.

[0034] Regarding the aforementioned structural element 1, it is fixed to the vehicle by means of fastening means 3. These fastening means 3 are preferably welding points. In alternative configurations, these fastening means 3 are Petition 870250011562, dated 12 / 02 / 2025, p. 13 / 22 6 / 8 arc welding (MIG / MAG), or spot welding combined with epoxy-based structural adhesives.

[0035] In a preferred configuration of the present invention, the structural element 1 is manufactured from metallic material, more specifically TRC440Y780T of the Stellantis MS_50002 harmonized standard with a thickness of 2.0 mm. In alternative configurations of the present invention, said structural element 1 is manufactured from DPC440Y780T or FBH440Y580T or LAC420Y480T of the Stellantis MS_50002 harmonized standard with a thickness between 1.2 and 2 mm.

[0036] The present invention further reveals that the said metal rod 2 is made in a U shape.

[0037] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, this includes a surface protection layer on the metal rod 2, configured to prevent corrosion and wear over time.

[0038] The aforementioned metal rod 2, in its preferred configuration, has rounded ends designed to minimize wear on the seat back during locking and unlocking.

[0039] The present invention reveals in its preferred configuration that the structural element 1 is configured with additional reinforcements to withstand high loads during prolonged use.

[0040] The present invention further discloses in one possibility that the structural element 1 includes openings or holes to reduce the overall weight of the device without compromising its strength.

[0041] In a preferred configuration of the present invention, said metal rod 2 is configured with a low-friction protective coating layer, facilitating the movement of the seat backrest during locking.

[0042] In a preferred configuration of the present invention, said structural element 1 has dimensions between 200 mm and 400 mm in length, more preferably 300 mm.

[0043] In a preferred configuration of the present invention, said metal rod 2 has a diameter between 8.0 mm and 12.0 mm, even more preferably 10 mm, and after crimping, the diameter of the crimped end becomes at least 16 mm. Petition 870250011562, dated 12 / 02 / 2025, page 14 / 22 7 / 8

[0044] The present invention further discloses a vehicle comprising at least one attachment device for vehicle seats 100 as described earlier in this descriptive report.

[0045] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, said vehicle is a passenger vehicle. In alternative embodiments of the present invention, said vehicle is a pickup truck or a van.

[0046] Therefore, the present invention fulfills the proposed objectives by providing a vehicle seat attachment device that combines high structural strength, durability, and simplicity in the manufacturing and assembly process. The integration of the structural element and the metal rod ensures stability and functionality during use, meeting performance and safety requirements. Furthermore, the device design reduces production complexity, improves logistical efficiency, and ensures reliability under diverse operating conditions, standing out as an efficient and functional technical solution.

[0047] All combinations of elements that perform the same function in a substantially similar manner, using equivalent methods and producing the same results as the elements specified in the claims, are encompassed within the scope of this invention. This means that even if a variation of elements performs the function in a slightly different way, as long as the result is essentially the same, these variations are also protected by the patent. Furthermore, it is important to emphasize that the scope of protection conferred by this invention is not limited only to the literal content of the claims described, but also includes variations or modifications that may be considered equivalent.

[0048] It is necessary to observe that the attached drawings, although representing the ideas and concepts of the invention, have not necessarily been drawn to scale and serve only to illustrate conceptually the possible configurations of the elements. This choice aims only to facilitate the understanding of the invention and not to restrict the interpretation of the claims to a specific or exact dimension. Furthermore, all combinations of elements that perform the same function in an essentially equivalent way, even if they operate slightly differently, are protected by the scope of the invention. The patent protection, therefore, covers a wide range of potential variations that may differ in their specific characteristics, but which achieve the same results. Petition 870250011562, dated 12 / 02 / 2025, page 15 / 22 8 / 8 This flexibility allows the invention to protect not only the exact forms described, but also other possible variations and modifications, including so-called equivalents, which fall within the broader scope of the claims. Petition 870250011562, dated 12 / 02 / 2025, page 16 / 22

Claims

1 / 2 Claims 1. A vehicle seat attachment device (100), characterized by comprising at least one structural element (1) and at least one metal rod (2); wherein said structural element (1) is configured to support and connect the device to the vehicle structure; wherein said metal rod (2) is integrated into the structural element (1) and is configured to perform the locking of the seat backrest.

2. Attachment device for vehicle seats (100), according to claim 1, characterized in that the metal rod (2) has a reinforced section along its length.

3. Attachment device for vehicle seats (100), according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the metal rod (2) is fixed to the structural element (1) by cold forming of the steel wire itself, crimping it into the stamped support, wherein after crimping, the diameter of the crimped end becomes at least 1.6 times the original diameter of the wire.

4. Attachment device for vehicle seats (100), according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the structural element (1) is fixed to the vehicle by means of fastening means (3).

5. Attachment device for vehicle seats (100), according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that said fastening means (3) are welding points.

6. Attachment device for vehicle seats (100), according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the structural element (1) is made of metallic material, more specifically TRC440Y780T steel of the Stellantis MS_50002 harmonised standard with a thickness of 2.

0.

7. Attachment device for vehicle seats (100), according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the metal rod (2) is made of metallic material, more specifically SAE 1010 to 1020 steel wire according to SAE J403, with a minimum yield strength of 350 MPa and a minimum tensile strength of 510 MPa and a minimum diameter of 10 mm. Petition 870250011562, dated 12 / 02 / 2025, p. 17 / 22 2 / 2 8. Attachment device for vehicle seats (100), according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the metal rod (2) is made in a U shape.

9. Attachment device for vehicle seats (100), according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the metal rod (2) has rounded ends.

10. Attachment device for vehicle seats (100), according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the metal rod (2) is configured with a low-friction protective coating layer.

11. Vehicle characterized by comprising at least one attachment device for vehicle seats (100) as described in any of the preceding claims. Petition 870250011562, dated 12 / 02 / 2025, pp. 18 / 22

Images