Reaction and dissipation recline system for vehicle seats

Abstract

A vehicle seat (10) comprises a seat cushion (12), a backrest (14), an articulator (26) comprising a first flange (31) fixed to the seat cushion (12) and a second flange (32) fixed to the backrest (14), the second flange (32) being mounted so as to be able to rotate with respect to the first flange (31), means (18) for straightening the backrest (14) which rotate in association with the second flange (32) and define a straightening slot (44) comprising a first portion (48) separated from a second portion (50) by a bridge (52), a pin (24) integral with the backrest (14) which projects into the first portion (48) of the straightening slot (44), the pin (24) breaking the bridge (52) and then moving freely in the second portion (50) when an impact torque greater than a predetermined torque is applied to the backrest (14).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a vehicle seat, which includes a seat cushion and a backrest. Background Technology

[0002] In the event of a vehicle collision, particularly a frontal collision, the forces applied to the seat can cause severe compression of the passenger's chest against the seatbelt, especially when the backrest is in a reclined position. This sudden and rapid movement poses a significant risk of injury to the seated passenger. The risk of passenger injury increases when the backrest is in a reclined position. Therefore, it is necessary to protect passengers in the event of a collision by returning them to an upright position where the risk of injury is reduced.

[0003] For this purpose, a vehicle seat recliner system is known to be provided in the event of a collision. This seat recliner system allows the backrest to straighten upon impact. Such a seat recliner system typically includes a collision detection sensor and an active mechanical system for straightening the seat upon detection of a collision.

[0004] However, such tilt adjustment systems are typically complex systems added to seats, increasing seat size and making the structure heavier. Furthermore, this system is affected by the efficiency of impact detection and the efficiency of the active mechanical straightening elements. Summary of the Invention

[0005] Therefore, one object of the present invention is to provide a simple, reliable and space-saving system that reduces the risk to passengers in the event of an impact, particularly when the seat back is in a reclined position.

[0006] Therefore, the present invention relates to a vehicle seat, which further includes:

[0007] -cushion;

[0008] -Backrest;

[0009] - A hinge comprising a first flange fixed to a seat cushion and a second flange fixed to a backrest, the second flange being mounted to be rotatable about an axis relative to the first flange by a hinge mechanism, the hinge mechanism being movable between a first configuration and a second configuration, in the first configuration being capable of unlocking and / or rotating the backrest relative to the seat cushion, and in the second configuration being allowing the backrest to be blocked relative to the seat cushion, the hinge mechanism being movable between the first configuration and the second configuration by a control element that can be driven by the passenger of the seat;

[0010] - A straightening device for straightening the backrest, which rotates in association with a second flange, the straightening device being formed as a single piece with the second flange, the straightening device defining a straightening groove including a first portion separated from the second portion by a bridging portion;

[0011] - A pin integrally formed with the backrest extends into the first part of the straightening groove and is configured to contact the edge of the first part and the edge of the bridging portion, such that the pin ensures that the backrest and the second flange are attached by the straightening device under normal use, and the rotation of the second flange about the axis is synchronized with the rotation of the backrest.

[0012] When the seat is in the second configuration of the locking mechanism and an impact torque greater than the predetermined torque is applied to the backrest, the pin breaks the bridge and then moves freely in the second part of the straightening groove, which allows the backrest to rotate freely relative to the straightening device and the second flange.

[0013] Therefore, for example, when the seat back is in a reclined position, and in the event that an impact torque exceeding a certain threshold is applied to the seat, the backrest straightening device is adapted to allow the backrest to move from the reclined position to an upright position through the purely mechanical action of the impact itself. In this way, in the upright position, the force applied to the torso of the seat passenger is reduced, and the risk of chest and shoulder injuries is also reduced.

[0014] Further features of the seat according to the invention can be considered individually or in combination with all technically feasible features:

[0015] - When the locking mechanism is in the second configuration and an impact torque greater than the predetermined torque is applied to the backrest, the backrest can rotate freely about the axis relative to the second flange;

[0016] - The backrest can rotate about an axis relative to the seat cushion between an upright position and at least one reclining position. In the upright position, the seat can receive a seated passenger in an upright posture, and in the reclining position, the seat can receive a passenger in a semi-reclined or reclining posture. The backrest forms a first angle with the vertical direction in the upright position and a second angle with the vertical direction in the reclining position, the second angle being greater than the first angle.

[0017] - The hinge mechanism includes a blocking element that can move between a blocking position and a non-blocking position. In the blocking position, rotation of the second flange is prevented, and in the non-blocking position, the second flange can rotate about an axis. When the seat is in its normal use state, the rotation of the second flange about the axis when the blocking element is in the non-blocking position causes rotation of the straightening device, which causes movement of the pin, causing the backrest to move between an upright position and a reclining position. The seat also applies an impact torque greater than a predetermined torque to the backrest, and when the blocking element is in the blocking position, the pin breaks the bridge and then moves freely in the second part of the straightening groove, which causes the backrest to move from the reclining position to the upright position relative to the straightening device.

[0018] - The seat also includes an abutment element that is connected to the seat cushion and defines a slide rail, an adjustment groove that extends at least partially opposite the slide rail, and a pin that extends into the slide rail and moves in the slide rail when the backrest moves between an upright position and a reclining position.

[0019] -The slide rail extends between the first front end and the first rear end, and the pin abuts against the first front end at the extreme upright position and against the first rear end at the extreme tilt position;

[0020] - When the locking mechanism is in the second configuration and the impact torque is applied to the backrest, the pin moves from the second rear end of the straightening groove to the first front end of the slide rail in the straightening groove;

[0021] - The slide rail and straightening groove extend along an arc centered on the axis;

[0022] - The slide rail restricts the movement of the pins on the backrest during rotation of the backrest relative to the seat cushion;

[0023] - The seat also includes an actuator for driving the second flange, which drives the second flange to rotate substantially relative to the first flange about an axis;

[0024] - The straightening groove includes a dissipation section whose width is smaller than the size of the pin. The width of the dissipation section and the size of the pin are obtained in a direction perpendicular to the direction of movement of the pin in the straightening groove. The width of the dissipation section increases as the pin moves in the straightening groove.

[0025] - The straightening device includes a body that rotates in association with a second flange and defines a straightening groove for the straightening device, and a bridging portion is integrally formed with the body;

[0026] - The pin is blocked between the bridge and the end of the straightening groove when the seat is in normal use; and

[0027] - The shape of the first part of the straightening groove matches the shape of the part of the pin that extends into the straightening groove. Attached Figure Description

[0028] Further aspects and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following description, which is given by way of example and with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein:

[0029] Figure 1 This is a side view of a portion of a vehicle seat according to the invention in a normal use state, wherein the backrest is in an upright position;

[0030] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A side view of a portion of the seat in its normal use configuration, with the backrest in an upright position;

[0031] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 A partial schematic diagram of a seat in its normal use state, with the backrest in a tilted position;

[0032] Figure 4 When the impact torque is applied to the backrest while the backrest is in an inclined position. Figure 1 A partial schematic diagram of a portion of the seat;

[0033] Figure 5 yes Figure 1 A schematic perspective view of a portion of the seat, particularly showing the backrest straightening device;

[0034] Figure 6 yes Figure 5 A schematic diagram of the seat section, in which the pin is intentionally omitted;

[0035] Figure 7 yes Figure 1 A schematic perspective view of a portion of the seat, specifically shown from another angle. Figure 5 The seat section intentionally omits the abutment components and seat cushion;

[0036] Figure 8 yes Figure 7 A schematic perspective view of the seat section, showing the gusseted brackets as a whole;

[0037] Figure 9 This is a schematic perspective view of a part of a vehicle seat, specifically showing the pin locking element in the first part in the locked position;

[0038] Figure 10 yes Figure 9 A schematic perspective view of the seat section, with the locking element in the unlocked position. Detailed Implementation

[0039] The instruction manual defines the vertical direction Z based on the vehicle's height. For example, this vertical direction Z is perpendicular when the vehicle is on a level surface.

[0040] The longitudinal direction X is defined according to the length of the vehicle. For example, this longitudinal direction X is horizontal when the vehicle is on a level surface and extends along the vehicle's usual direction of travel. The terms "front" and "rear" define the directions toward the front and rear of the seat, respectively, based on the longitudinal direction X and the usual use of the seat.

[0041] The lateral direction Y is defined by the width of the vehicle. For example, this lateral direction Y is horizontal when the vehicle is on a level surface and orthogonal to the longitudinal direction X.

[0042] The normal use condition of a seat is the state in which the vehicle equipped with the seat is used in a conventional manner and is not subjected to an impact; that is, for example, an impact torque greater than a predetermined torque has not yet been applied to the seat back. In other words, the normal use condition corresponds to the state in which the seat is used outside of an accident.

[0043] refer to Figure 1-4 Articles 8-10 describe a seat 10, which includes at least one seat cushion 12, a backrest 14, a gusset 16, and an adjustment device 18 for the backrest 14.

[0044] Seat 10 is intended for installation in motor vehicles or any type of vehicle, such as rail vehicles, marine transport vehicles, etc.

[0045] The seat cushion 12 is standard and will not be described further here.

[0046] The backrest 14 can be in an upright position relative to the seat cushion 12 around axis A-A' (in Figure 1 and 2 (visible in) and at least one tilted position (in) Figure 3 The backrest rotates between the two sides (as can be seen in the image). In the upright position, the backrest forms a first angle α with the vertical direction Z. In the tilted position, the backrest forms a second angle β with the vertical direction Z. The second angle β is greater than the first angle α.

[0047] The first angle α and the second angle β define an obtuse angle, i.e., an angle greater than 90°, between the seat cushion 12 and the backrest 14.

[0048] The first angle α is, for example, between 15° and 25°.

[0049] The second angle β is greater than the first angle α and is, for example, between 25° and 50°. In other words, the backrest 14 is further away from the vertical in the tilted position than in the upright position.

[0050] In the upright position of the backrest 14, the seat 10 is adapted to receive passengers in an upright posture.

[0051] Therefore, in the upright position, the passenger of seat 10 sits in an upright posture, with the passenger facing, for example, the windshield and able to observe the environment outside the vehicle.

[0052] According to one embodiment, the passenger of seat 10 can place the backrest 14 in multiple reclining positions. For example, this reclining position is also referred to as a resting position, in which the passenger can rest. In the reclining position, seat 10 can thus accommodate the passenger in a semi-reclined or reclining posture. In particular, at the extreme reclining position of the backrest 14, the passenger of seat 10 sits in a reclining posture, in which the passenger can rest as if using a sleeper berth.

[0053] For any type of vehicle, a passenger in seat 10 who is not the driver of the vehicle can adjust his / her seat 10 to the said upright or reclining position. In the case of an autonomous vehicle where driver intervention is limited or absent, the upright position corresponds, for example, to a manual driving configuration of seat 10 for the driver, and the reclining position corresponds, for example, to an autonomous driving configuration that requires no driver intervention.

[0054] The backrest 14 includes two flanges 22 on each lateral side along the lateral direction Y. Each flange 22 extends substantially in a plane including the vertical direction Z and the longitudinal direction X. Each flange 22 includes at least one pin 24 extending beyond the flange 22. The pin 24 extends beyond the flange 22, for example, along the lateral direction Y. The pin 24 is integrally formed with the backrest 14, for example. In one variation, the pin 24 is an attachment for securing to the backrest 14.

[0055] according to Figure 1-10 In the embodiment shown, pin 24 has a cylindrical shape, the axis of which extends along the transverse direction Y. Pin 24 thus has a diameter obtained in a plane perpendicular to the transverse direction Y.

[0056] According to a variation of this embodiment, pin 24 has a shape different from a cylindrical shape.

[0057] According to one embodiment not shown, the backrest 14 includes two pins 24, a first pin 24 extending from a first flange 22 of the backrest 14, and a second pin 24 extending from a second flange 22 of the backrest 14.

[0058] refer to Figure 1 Pin 24 is also secured to backrest 14 by reinforcing element 25.

[0059] The reinforcing element 25 is secured to the flange 22 of the backrest 14 by at least one fastening element, such as a screw or rivet.

[0060] Pin 24 is, for example, an attachment that secures it to reinforcing element 25. In one variation, pin 24 is integral with reinforcing element 25.

[0061] In particular, such as Figure 1 As shown, the reinforcing element 25 is secured to the flange 22 of the backrest 14 by at least two fastening elements.

[0062] The reinforcing element 25 is, for example, an insert attached to the backrest 14. In one variation, the reinforcing element 25 is integrally formed with the backrest 14.

[0063] For clarity, in Figure 2-6 The reinforcing element 25 is intentionally omitted in 9 and 10.

[0064] The backrest 14 is rotatably mounted on the seat cushion 12 in the normal use state of the seat 10, for example, by means of the gusset 16 and the straightening device 18.

[0065] The corner brace 16 includes a hinge 26, a lower mounting bracket 28, and an abutment element 30 for the backrest 14.

[0066] The gusset 16 is attached to the seat 12 via a lower mounting bracket 28. The gusset 16 is attached to the seat 12, for example, by at least one fastening element suitable for mounting on the lower mounting bracket 28 of the gusset 16. The fastening element is, for example, a screw or a rivet.

[0067] According to one embodiment not shown, the lower mounting bracket 28 is integrally formed with the seat cushion 12.

[0068] refer to Figure 2-4 The lower mounting bracket 28 is an attachment for abutting the element 30.

[0069] according to Figure 1 and 8 In a variant shown in -10, the lower mounting bracket 28 and the abutment element 30 are integrated.

[0070] The backrest 14 is rotatably mounted on the seat cushion 12 via a hinge 26.

[0071] refer to Figure 5-8 The hinge 26 includes a first flange 31 fixed to the seat cushion 12, a hinge mechanism, and a second flange 32 rotatably mounted relative to the first flange 31 about an axis A-A' via the hinge mechanism.

[0072] The hinge mechanism is movable between a first configuration and a second configuration, in which it allows the backrest 14 to be unlocked and / or rotated relative to the seat cushion 12, and in the second configuration it allows the backrest 14 to be blocked relative to the seat cushion 12.

[0073] Such hinges are known in the prior art. Hinge 26 is, for example, a hinge with a grain-type locking / unlocking mechanism, or a hinge with a drive mechanism such as a planetary gear mechanism.

[0074] like Figure 8 As shown, the first flange 31 is attached to the seat cushion 12, for example, via a mounting bracket 28. The first flange 31 is attached, in particular, to the lower mounting bracket 28.

[0075] The second flange 32 is attached to the backrest 14 via the straightening device 18, for example, in the normal use state of the seat 10, as will be described below. The second flange 32 and the straightening device 18 are, for example, formed as a single piece. According to one variation, the second flange 32 is an insert attached to the straightening device 18.

[0076] The second flange 32 is therefore mounted such that it can rotate relative to the seat cushion 12 about axis A-A'. In particular, the backrest 14 is mounted such that it can rotate relative to the seat cushion 12 about axis A-A' by means of the second flange 32 during the normal use of the seat 10.

[0077] refer to Figure 5 and 6 The second flange 32 has a circular portion in the plane formed by the longitudinal direction X and the vertical direction Z.

[0078] According to one variation, the gusset 16 further includes an actuator (not shown). When activated, the actuator of the gusset 16 is configured to allow the second flange 32 to rotate relative to the first flange 31 in either direction about axis A-A'. This actuator is, for example, an electric motor.

[0079] The hinge mechanism of the hinge 26 includes a blocking element that is movable between a blocking position that prevents the second flange 32 from rotating and a non-blocking position that allows the second flange 32 to rotate about axis A-A'.

[0080] When the hinge mechanism is in its first configuration, the blocking element is in its non-blocking position. When the hinge mechanism is in its second configuration, the blocking element is in its blocking position.

[0081] The gusset 16 also includes a control element (not shown) for controlling the hinge mechanism. This control element is movable between an active position and a rest position, in which the hinge mechanism is in its first configuration and the user can rotate the backrest 14 in either direction, and in the rest position, the hinge mechanism is in its second configuration.

[0082] When the hinge 26 is, for example, a hinge that includes a particle locking / unlocking mechanism, the passenger of seat 10 moves the control element to the actuated position to unlock the rotation of backrest 14 relative to seat cushion 12. The passenger of seat 10 can then recline backrest 14 according to his / her preference.

[0083] When the hinge 26 is, for example, a hinge that includes a drive mechanism such as a planetary gear mechanism, the passenger of the seat 10 moves the control element to its activated position to unlock the rotation of the backrest 14 relative to the seat cushion 12, while the blocking element is in the blocking position.

[0084] In one variation, the gusset 16 includes an actuator, which is also controlled by a control element. When the control element is in the activated position, the blocking element is in the unblocked position and the actuator rotates the second flange 32 in either direction. In the stationary position, the actuator does not rotate the second flange 32.

[0085] The control element of the gusset 16 is configured to be controlled by the passenger of the seat 10. The passenger of the seat 10 can therefore control the rotation of the backrest 14 in either direction via the control element. The control element of the gusset 16 is, for example, an electronic lever or controller, which can be used and operated by the passenger of the seat 10. Therefore, the passenger can control the rotational movement of the backrest 14 between an upright and reclined position via the control element during the normal use of the seat 10.

[0086] refer to Figure 5 and 6 The straightening device 18 is located between the corner brace 16 and the flange 22 of the backrest 14.

[0087] The straightening device 18 includes a body 41 that rotates in association with a second flange 32. Specifically, the body 41 has an annular shape and defines an opening 42 into which the second flange 32 extends. The body 41 thus extends about the second flange 32. The opening 42 substantially matches the shape of the second flange 32. The body 41 thus rotates in association with the second flange 32 through the edge of the opening 42.

[0088] The main body 41 defines the straightening groove 44. (Reference) Figure 5 and 6 The main body 41 includes an extension 43 that extends radially relative to the axis A-A' and defines a straightening groove 44.

[0089] refer to Figure 5 The pin 24 of the backrest 14 extends into the straightening groove 44.

[0090] The straightening device also includes a bridging portion 52 that extends into the straightening groove 44.

[0091] refer to Figure 4 and 6 The straightening groove 44 includes a first part 48 and a second part 50 spaced apart from the first part 48 by a bridging part 52.

[0092] The bridging part 52 is made of a metallic material, such as S420 MC steel.

[0093] refer to Figure 1-10 The bridging part 52 is integrated with the main body 41.

[0094] According to an embodiment not shown, the bridging portion 52 is an insert attached to the edge of the straightening groove 44.

[0095] The bridging part 52 is configured to break when an impact force is applied to it.

[0096] The impact force is greater than the predetermined force. This impact force originates from the impact moment applied to the backrest 14 relative to the axis A-A' during the impact. This impact moment is greater than the predetermined moment, being greater than or equal to 200 N·m, advantageously greater than or equal to 250 N·m. This impact force is, for example, applied to the vehicle during an impact.

[0097] The mechanical resistance of the bridging part 52 prevents it from breaking when a force smaller than the predetermined force is applied.

[0098] In the normal use state of the seat 10, the pin 24 of the backrest 14 extends into the first portion 48 of the straightening groove 44 and connects to the edge of the first portion 48 and the edge of the bridging portion 52. Specifically, the pin 24 is positioned to contact the edge of the first portion 48 and the edge of the bridging portion 52. The pin 24 is held in the first portion 48 by the edge of the first portion 48 and the edge of the bridging portion 52. Therefore, the pin 24 is connected to the straightening device 18. Therefore, the backrest 14 is also connected to the straightening device 18. In other words, the pin 24 ensures the attachment between the backrest 14 and the second flange 32 through the straightening device 18.

[0099] Specifically, pin 24 is blocked between the bridging portion 52 and one end of the straightening groove 44 in the normal use state of seat 10.

[0100] Specifically, the first portion 48 of the straightening groove 44 conforms to the cross-sectional shape of the pin 24 extending into the straightening groove 44.

[0101] Therefore, the second flange 32 and the backrest 14 are fixed in terms of rotation during the normal use of the seat 10.

[0102] In other words, rotation of the second flange 32 causes rotation of the backrest 14. If rotation of the drive element 32 is prevented by the blocking element, rotation of the backrest 14 in the normal use state of the seat 10 is also prevented.

[0103] Therefore, when the second flange 32 rotates, the backrest 14 rotates relative to the seat cushion 12 via the straightening device 18. In the normal use state of the seat 10, the passenger of the seat 10 can thus adjust the tilt of the backrest 14 relative to the seat cushion 12 via the control elements.

[0104] When an impact moment is applied to the backrest 14, for example during a rear-end collision, the backrest 14, and therefore the pin 24, are driven forward. When the hinge mechanism is in its second configuration, the pin 24 breaks the bridging portion 52. The second flange 32 and the backrest 14 are thus separated in terms of rotation.

[0105] Pin 24 then moves freely in the second part 50 of the straightening groove 44, which causes the backrest 14 to move from an inclined position to an upright position relative to the straightening device 18.

[0106] Therefore, the breakage of the bridging portion 52 allows the pin 24 to displace in the second portion 50 and thus allows the backrest 14 to displace from the inclined position to the upright position.

[0107] In other words, when pin 24 breaks the bridging portion 52, pin 24 then moves freely in the second part 50 of the straightening groove 44, which allows the backrest 14 to rotate freely from the inclined position to the upright position relative to the straightening device 18 and the second flange 32.

[0108] Specifically, the backrest 14 rotates from the tilted position to the upright position without the second flange 32 or the straightening device 18 rotating together.

[0109] In other words, when the locking mechanism is in its second configuration and an impact torque greater than the predetermined torque is applied to the backrest 14, the backrest 14 rotates freely about axis A-A' relative to the second flange 32. Therefore, the backrest 14 rotates only about the same axis of rotation (here, axis A-A'), regardless of the usage state of the seat 10. Thus, even when an impact torque is applied to the backrest 14, the movement of the backrest 14, and therefore the movement of the passenger in the seat 10, follows the same trajectory as when using the seat in its normal usage state. In fact, the axis of rotation of the backrest 14 relative to the second flange 32 corresponds to the axis of rotation of the backrest 14 relative to the seat cushion 12, therefore the rotation of the passenger's torso in the seat 10 occurs about the same axis of rotation A-A' regardless of the usage state. Therefore, the rotational movement conforms to the morphology of the passenger in the seat 10, which is not a case where the axis of rotation of the backrest 14 relative to the second flange 32 does not correspond to the axis of rotation of the backrest 14 relative to the seat 12. In addition, since the rotational motion takes place around the same axis A-A', the design complexity of the seat 10 is reduced.

[0110] The straightening groove 44 also includes a dissipation portion (not shown) having a width obtained in a direction perpendicular to the direction of movement of the pin 24.

[0111] The width of the dissipating portion is smaller than the dimension of pin 24 obtained along a direction perpendicular to the direction of movement of pin 24. Specifically, according to... Figure 1-10 In the embodiment shown, the width of the dissipation portion is smaller than the diameter of pin 24.

[0112] For example, the dissipation portion is included in the second part 50 of the straightening groove 44.

[0113] According to one variant, the second part 50 is the dissipated part.

[0114] The dissipation section is adapted to deform by widening its width as the pin 24 moves within the dissipation section.

[0115] When an impact torque is applied to the backrest 14, the pin 24 moves into the second part 50 and widens the dissipation portion of the second part 50. The increased width of the dissipation portion at least partially dissipates the impact energy generated by the impact force.

[0116] The abutment element 30 extends on each lateral side of the backrest 14 opposite to the flange 22 of the backrest 14.

[0117] According to an embodiment not shown, the backrest 14 is rotatably mounted on the seat cushion 12 by two gussets 16, wherein each abutment element 30 of each gusset 16 faces the flange 22 of the backrest 14 and extends on each lateral side of the backrest 14.

[0118] The abutment element 30 defines a slide rail 34 extending between the first front end portion 36 and the first rear end portion 38.

[0119] The first front end portion 36 is located, for example, in the front part of the slide rail 34 along the longitudinal direction X. The first rear end portion 38 is located, for example, in the rear part of the slide rail 34 along the longitudinal direction X.

[0120] The straightening groove 44 extends at least partially relative to the slide rail 34.

[0121] The pin 24 of the backrest 14 extends from the flange 22 through the straightening groove 44 and enters the slide rail 34.

[0122] When the backrest 14 includes two pins 24 extending from the first flange 22 and the second flange 22 respectively, and the seat includes two stop elements 30 extending opposite to each flange 22 on each lateral side of the backrest 14, each pin 24 of the backrest 14 extends into the slide rail 34 of the stop element 30 it faces.

[0123] like Figure 1 As shown, the reinforcing element 25 extends from the pin 24 toward the flange 22 of the backrest 14, such that the reinforcing element 25 and the flange 22 extend on opposite sides of the abutting element 30.

[0124] The reinforcing element 25 reinforces the connection between the pin 24 and the backrest 14.

[0125] Each pin 24 moves in the slide rail 34 as the backrest 14 moves between an upright position and a reclining position. Each pin 24 abuts against a first front end 36 in the extreme upright position and against a first rear end 38 in the extreme reclining position, for example, in the normal use state of the seat 10.

[0126] The first front end portion 36 and the first rear end portion 38 thus constitute the abutting end of the pin 24.

[0127] Therefore, each slide rail 34 restricts the movement of the pin 24 between the first front end 36 and the first rear end 38. Each slide rail 34 also restricts the rotational movement of the backrest 14 relative to the seat cushion 12 between the extreme upright position and the extreme recline position.

[0128] When the backrest is in the tilted position, when an impact torque is applied to the backrest 14 (e.g., during a rear-end collision of the vehicle), the pin 24 moves freely from the rear end of the straightening groove 44 to the first front end 36 of the slide rail 34.

[0129] When the backrest 14 is in the extreme upright position, when the impact torque is applied to the backrest 14, the pin 24 has already abutted the first front end 36 of the slide rail 3 and therefore cannot move into the second part 50 of the straightening groove 44.

[0130] Therefore, pin 24 can only be moved into the second part 50 of straightening groove 44 when backrest 14 is in a position other than the extreme upright position.

[0131] In addition, each slide rail 34 guides each pin 24 as the backrest 14 rotates relative to the seat cushion 12.

[0132] refer to Figure 1-6 And 8-10, slide rail 34 extends along an arc centered on axis A-A'.

[0133] The straightening groove 44 extends, for example, along the same arc as the slide rail 34.

[0134] refer to Figure 9 and 10 The straightening device 18 includes a lockable position (in Figure 7 (visible in) and unlock location (in) Figure 8 The locking element 56, which moves between the two positions (visible in the middle), prevents the pin 24 from moving in the straightening groove 44 in the locked position and allows the pin 24 to move in the straightening groove 44 in the unlocked position.

[0135] The locking element is connected to the main body 41 of the straightening device 18. In particular, the locking element is connected to the extension 43 of the main body 41.

[0136] The locking element includes a hook 58, a lever arm 60, and a return element 64.

[0137] Hook 58 is mounted on body 41 so as to be able to rotate about an axis of rotation parallel to axis A-A'. Figure 9 The visible hook position and Figure 10 The device rotates between the visible release positions, with hook 58 hooked on pin 24 in the hooked position and hook 58 moving away from pin 24 in the release position.

[0138] In the hook position corresponding to the locking position of the locking element 56, the hook 58 holds the pin 24 in the first part 48 of the straightening groove 44 and thus prevents the pin 24 from moving toward the second part 50.

[0139] In the release position, corresponding to the unlock position of the locking element 56, the hook 58 moves away from the pin 24, so that it no longer holds the pin 24 in the first part 48. Therefore, in the release position, the pin 24 can move into the second part 50 of the straightening groove 44.

[0140] A lever arm 60 extends from and connects to hook 58. The lever arm 60 is used to interact with a pivot point 62 placed on abutment element 30. Pivot point 62 is, for example, a protrusion that extends from abutment element 30 toward straightening device 18.

[0141] In the upright position of the backrest 14, the lever arm 60 is away from the pivot point 62. As the backrest 14 rotates from its upright position to its tilted position, the lever arm 60 contacts the pivot point 62, causing the lever arm 60 to engage the pivot point 62.

[0142] When the lever arm 60 engages the pivot point 62, it causes the hook 58 to rotate on the body 41 and moves the hook 58 from its hooked position to its released position.

[0143] Therefore, the movement of the backrest 14 from the upright position to the tilted position causes the hook 58 to move from its hooked position to the released position, and thus causes the locking element 56 to move from its locked position to the unlocked position.

[0144] Therefore, when the backrest 14 is in an inclined position where it forms an angle β with the vertical direction Z that is greater than a threshold angle, the locking element 56 allows the pin 24 to move within the second portion 50 of the straightening groove 44. This threshold angle corresponds to the angle formed by the backrest 14 and the vertical direction when the locking element 56 moves from its hooked position to its released position.

[0145] Return element 64 is a return element for hook 58. Return element 64 is attached to straightening device 16 and is configured to move hook 58 to its hooked position when backrest 14 is moved to its upright position.

[0146] The return element 64 is therefore configured to apply a return torque to the hook 58.

[0147] like Figure 9 and 10 As shown, the return element 64 is, for example, a torsion spring.

[0148] The operation of seat 10 is described below.

[0149] In the normal use state of the seat 10, when the user wishes to move the backrest 14 between the reclining position and the upright position, the user uses the control element to switch the hinge mechanism to its first configuration.

[0150] The user then rotates the backrest 14. The pin 24 of the backrest 14 is thus driven into the slide rail 34, while remaining blocked in the first part 48 of the straightening groove 44 by the bridging part 52.

[0151] Pin 24 moves between its position abutting against the first front end 36 in the upright position of the backrest 14 and its position spaced apart from the first front end 36 in the tilted position. In the extreme tilted position of the backrest 14, the pin abuts against the first front end 38.

[0152] When the user is satisfied with the position of the backrest 14, the user uses the control element to switch the hinge mechanism to its second configuration.

[0153] If the backrest 14 is in an inclined position such that the locking element 56 is in its unlocked position, the pin 24 moves away from the first front end 36 of the slide rail 34.

[0154] When the backrest 14 is in the tilted position and an impact torque greater than the predetermined torque is applied to the backrest 14 (especially in the event of a vehicle collision), the backrest 14, and therefore the pin 24, is driven forward. The pin 24 thus breaks the bridge 52, which allows the backrest 14 to rotate freely from the tilted position to the upright position relative to the straightening device 18 and the second flange 32.

[0155] Pin 24 then moves into straightening groove 44 under impact force, and moves from the rear end of straightening groove 44 to the first front end 36 of slide rail 34.

[0156] Pin 24 then deforms the dissipation portion of the second part 50 of the straightening groove 44, which at least partially dissipates the impact energy generated by the impact force.

[0157] The backrest 14 is then in an upright position, especially in the extreme upright position.

[0158] The passenger was then placed in an upright position in seat 10 to reduce the risk of injury from the impact.

[0159] The described invention thus provides a vehicle seat 10 that, particularly, reduces the risk of passenger injury when a passenger is in a reclining position in the event of an accident (e.g., a frontal impact). The seat 10 ensures that the backrest 14 remains upright during such an impact, allowing the seat occupant's body to be properly supported by passenger protection devices (e.g., seatbelts or airbags). This seat 10 thus prevents impact energy from being dissipated through the use of the occupant's organs, which are particularly vulnerable when the backrest is in a reclining position (e.g., the passenger's ribs).

Claims

1. A vehicle seat (10) comprising: - Seat cushion (12); - Backrest (14); - A hinge (26) comprising a first flange (31) fixed to the seat cushion (12) and a second flange (32) fixed to the backrest (14), the second flange (32) being mounted to be rotatable about an axis (A-A') relative to the first flange (31) via a hinge mechanism, the hinge mechanism being movable between a first configuration and a second configuration, in the first configuration being able to unlock and / or rotate the backrest (14) relative to the seat cushion (12), and in the second configuration being able to block the backrest (14) relative to the seat cushion (12), the hinge mechanism being movable between the first configuration and the second configuration via a control element that can be driven by a passenger of the seat (10); - A straightening device (18) for straightening the backrest (14), which rotates in association with the second flange (32), the straightening device (18) defining a straightening groove (44) including a first portion (48) separated from the second portion (50) by a bridging portion (52). - A pin (24) integrally formed with the backrest (14) extends into the first portion (48) of the straightening groove (44) and is configured to contact the edge of the first portion (48) and the edge of the bridging portion (52), such that the pin (24) ensures, under normal use, that the backrest (14) and the second flange (32) are attached by the straightening device (18), and the rotation of the second flange (32) about the axis (A-A') is synchronized with the rotation of the backrest (14). When the hinge mechanism is in the second configuration and an impact torque greater than a predetermined torque is applied to the backrest (14), the seat (10) causes the pin (24) to break the bridge (52) and subsequently move freely in the second portion (50) of the straightening groove (44), allowing the backrest (14) to rotate freely relative to the straightening device (18) and the second flange (32). When the hinge mechanism is in the second configuration and an impact torque greater than a predetermined torque is applied to the backrest (14), the backrest (14) is able to rotate freely about the axis (A-A') relative to the second flange (32). The straightening device (18) includes a locking element (56) movable between a locked position and an unlocked position. In the locked position, the locking element (56) prevents the pin (24) from moving in the straightening groove (44), and in the unlocked position, the locking element (56) allows the pin (24) to move in the straightening groove (44). The movement of the backrest (14) from an upright position to an inclined position causes the locking element (56) to move from its locked position to its unlocked position.

2. The seat (10) according to claim 1, wherein, The backrest (14) is rotatable relative to the seat cushion (12) about the axis (A-A') between an upright position and at least one tilted position, wherein the seat (10) is able to receive a seated passenger in an upright posture in the upright position and the seat (10) is able to receive a passenger in a semi-reclined or reclining posture in the tilted position. The backrest (14) forms a first angle (α) with the vertical direction (Z) in the upright position, and the backrest (14) forms a second angle (β) with the vertical direction (Z) in the tilted position, the second angle (β) being greater than the first angle (α).

3. The seat (10) according to claim 1, wherein, The hinge mechanism includes a blocking element that is movable between a blocking position and a non-blocking position, in which rotation of the second flange (32) is prevented, and in the non-blocking position, the second flange (32) is capable of rotating about the axis (A-A'). In the normal use state of the seat (10), when the blocking element is in the non-blocking position, the rotation of the second flange (32) about the axis (A-A') causes the straightening device (18) to rotate, which causes the pin (24) to move, causing the backrest (14) to move between the upright position and the tilted position. The seat (10) also applies an impact torque greater than the predetermined torque to the backrest (14) and the blocking element is in the blocking position, causing the pin (24) to break the bridge (52) and then move freely into the second part (50) of the straightening groove (44), which causes the backrest (14) to move from the tilted position to the upright position relative to the straightening device (18).

4. The seat (10) according to claim 2, further comprising an abutment element (30) connected to the cushion (12) and defining a slide rail (34), the straightening groove (44) extending at least partially opposite the slide rail (34), the pin (24) also extending into the slide rail (34) and moving in the slide rail (34) when the backrest (14) moves between the upright position and the tilted position.

5. The seat (10) according to claim 4, wherein, The slide rail (34) extends between the first front end (36) and the first rear end (38), and the pin (24) abuts against the first front end (36) at the extreme upright position and against the first rear end (38) at the extreme tilt position.

6. The seat (10) according to claim 5, wherein, When the hinge mechanism is in the second configuration and an impact torque is applied to the backrest (14), the pin (24) moves from the second rear end of the straightening groove (44) to the first front end (36) of the slide rail (34) in the straightening groove (44).

7. The seat (10) according to any one of claims 4-6, wherein, The slide rail (34) and the straightening groove (44) extend along an arc centered on the axis (A-A').

8. The seat (10) according to any one of claims 4-6, wherein, The slide rail (34) restricts the movement of the pin (24) of the backrest (14) during rotation of the backrest (14) relative to the seat cushion (12).

9. The seat (10) according to any one of claims 1-6, further comprising an actuator for driving the second flange (32) to rotate substantially relative to the first flange (31) about the axis (A-A').

10. The seat (10) according to any one of claims 1-6, wherein, The straightening groove (44) includes a dissipation portion, the width of which is smaller than the size of the pin (24). The width of the dissipation portion and the size of the pin (24) are obtained in a direction perpendicular to the direction of movement of the pin (24) in the straightening groove (44). The width of the dissipation portion is increased as the pin (24) moves in the straightening groove (44).

11. The seat (10) according to any one of claims 1-6, wherein, The straightening device (18) includes a main body (41). The main body (41) rotates in association with the second flange (32) and defines the straightening groove (44) of the straightening device (18), and the bridging portion (52) is integrally formed with the main body (41).

12. The seat (10) according to any one of claims 1-6, wherein, The pin (24) is blocked between the end of the bridging portion (52) and the straightening groove (44) in the normal use state of the seat (10).

13. The seat (10) according to claim 12, wherein, The first portion (48) of the straightening groove (44) matches the shape of the portion of the pin (24) that extends into the straightening groove (44).

14. The seat (10) according to any one of claims 1-6, wherein, The straightening device (18) and the second flange (32) are formed as a single piece.

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