Equipment component for a vehicle and method for manufacturing an equipment component

Abstract

The invention relates to an equipment component (10) for a vehicle and a method for its production, the equipment component comprising a base body (11), at least one first foam layer (13) and a cover (18), the equipment component being provided with at least one audio pad device (30), the audio pad device having at least one loudspeaker device (12) comprising at least one loudspeaker, each loudspeaker having a sound outlet (22). The first foam layer has an opening (14) which extends along a central axis (m) of the sound outlet, such that sound can continue in a direction (x1) towards the cover through the opening, a support layer (16) being provided which covers the opening, a second foam layer (17) being provided after the support layer in the direction of sound propagation, the second foam layer spanning the opening. The support layer is formed from a fabric and / or a grid, the second foam layer providing a comfort of elastic deformation under force, the second foam layer having a better sound transmission than the first foam layer.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] According to a first aspect, the present invention relates to an equipment component for a vehicle having an audio padding device. Such an equipment component is, for example, a headrest, armrest, or center console. Background Technology

[0002] The headrest, for example, has a base that can be secured to the backrest structure of a vehicle seat by means of a retaining device. In a so-called integral seat, the base is inseparably connected to the backrest structure. The base is provided with foam, which may be formed, for example, from foam pieces fitted onto the base. The foam is provided with a cover, which may be formed, for example, from fabric or leather. In the prior art, speakers have been integrated into such headrests.

[0003] For example, DE 198 40 444 A1 provides a headrest having a front side including a central region adapted to serve as a support for the head of a seat occupant, and the central region being surrounded by two speakers flush-mounted into the front side.

[0004] The disadvantages of this prior art are as follows: to avoid damaging the speaker, the speaker outlet is covered by a grille, which prevents access to the speaker as a protection against damage. Therefore, the grilled area of ​​the headrest cannot be used as a support surface. Furthermore, the grille poses a risk of injury, for example, in the event of an accident. In terms of appearance, this prior art also has disadvantages because the grille restricts design freedom. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The object of this invention is to provide a vehicle equipment component equipped with a speaker, which can fit against all padding areas and improves safety. Furthermore, the vehicle equipment component should have an improved appearance.

[0006] The objective is achieved by an equipment component for a vehicle, the equipment component comprising a base, at least one first foam layer, and a cover, the equipment component being provided with at least one audio pad device having at least one speaker device including at least one loudspeaker, each loudspeaker having a sound outlet, characterized in that the first foam layer has an opening extending along the central axis of the sound outlet such that sound can pass through the opening and continue in a direction toward the cover, a sound-penetrating support layer covering the opening, and a second foam layer disposed after the support layer in the direction of sound propagation, the second foam layer spanning the opening, the support layer being formed of fabric and / or grille, the second foam layer providing comfort through elastic deformation under force, and the second foam layer having better sound penetration than the first foam layer.

[0007] The objective is also achieved by an equipment component for a vehicle, the equipment component comprising a base, at least one first foam layer and a cover, the equipment component being provided with at least one audio pad device having at least one speaker device including at least one loudspeaker, each loudspeaker having a sound outlet, characterized in that the first foam layer has an opening extending along the central axis of the sound outlet such that sound can pass through the opening and continue in a direction toward the cover, a sound-penetrating support layer covering the opening, and a second foam layer disposed after the support layer in the direction of sound propagation, the second foam layer crossing the opening, the support layer being foamed into the first foam layer.

[0008] The equipment components are designed for use in vehicles, which may involve land, air, or water vehicles.

[0009] The equipment component includes a base. The base may be formed, for example, from a plastic part or a sheet metal part. The base is particularly formed from a headrest or at least one wing fastened thereto.

[0010] The equipment component has at least one speaker device, wherein each speaker device is equipped with at least one speaker, and each of the at least one speaker includes a sound outlet. The speaker device is held, for example, on a base component or alternatively held by foam. The speaker device is secured such that the sound outlet of the at least one speaker is oriented toward the padding side, especially toward the occupant of the vehicle seat. The sound outlet side protrudes from the base component only at a small height, for example.

[0011] The substrate is provided with at least one first foam layer. The first foam layer is provided with a covering. The first foam layer is configured to provide resiliently deformable support for vehicle occupants, thereby cushioning the occupants upon impact with equipment components, such as headrests. The first foam layer may be formed, for example, from a foam element that is mounted onto the substrate component, or alternatively, manufactured in-situ, wherein the substrate component is placed in a mold and the first foam layer is foamed onto the substrate component.

[0012] Before each sound outlet, an opening extends in the first foam layer in a direction parallel to the central axis of sound propagation. An opening is formed in the first foam layer before each sound outlet. These openings are designed to allow unobstructed sound passage, so that sound is not absorbed by the first foam layer.

[0013] A support layer for sound transmission is provided, at least partially covering the opening. This support layer, for example, has high strength so that it does not break when a seat occupant leans against or supports themselves on the vehicle equipment component in the speaker area. On the one hand, the support layer functions to prevent access to the speaker and thus protect the speaker from damage. Furthermore, the support layer has a supporting function. In this way, as explained in more detail below, it prevents the cover from being pressed into the opening due to the seat occupant's leaning and prevents the opening from being noticeable to the seat occupant.

[0014] A second foam layer, covering the opening, is provided behind the support layer (e.g., fabric) along the direction of sound propagation. This foam layer is sound-permeable and ensures a resiliently deformable, comfortable fit for the seat occupant in the area of ​​the opening. The fabric supports the second foam layer, preventing it from being pressed into the opening. Therefore, the seat occupant will not perceive a difference between the area of ​​the cushion including the opening and the area of ​​the cushion adjacent to the opening in the equipment component. Nevertheless, due to the sound-permeable fabric and the second foam layer, sound waves can pass well through the opening area.

[0015] The first foam layer, the second foam layer, and the support layer are formed, for example, by multiple components.

[0016] In order to prevent the cover from absorbing sound from the speaker device in the area of ​​the opening, the cover is constructed such that sound can pass through the cover.

[0017] The advantage of the equipment component according to the invention is that it includes at least one speaker device with at least one speaker, but the speaker is concealed within the cushion without compromising the comfort of the seat occupant. The seat occupant can lean against or support themselves on the cushion without the risk of damaging the speaker. Furthermore, there is no risk of damaging the speaker due to the seat occupant's contact with the cushion and the resulting deformation of the cushion. The openings in the first cushion layer for unobstructed sound propagation are imperceptible to the seat occupant. Moreover, the design of the vehicle equipment component is not affected by the speaker openings.

[0018] In the context of this invention, "sound penetration" means that sound output from a loudspeaker can pass through a sound-penetrating material with virtually no loss.

[0019] The support layer is formed, for example, from fabric and / or grid. The fabric, for example, has high strength.

[0020] The support layer is positioned relative to the first foam layer such that it at least partially covers the opening for sound propagation. The support layer, for example, completely covers the opening.

[0021] The support layer is fastened to the first foam layer, for example. This fastening can be achieved, for example, by adhesive bonding or by means of a suitable other fastening method.

[0022] A sound-penetrating support layer is, for example, foamed into the first foam layer. In this way, there is no need to separately fasten the support layer. During the manufacture of the first foam layer, the support layer is positioned in the mold such that it spans an opening.

[0023] The diameter of the opening is, for example, larger than the diameter of the sound outlet. In this case, the diameter is constant. Considering the shape of sound propagation, the opening can be made to have a larger diameter relative to the sound outlet. According to an alternative, the diameter of the opening increases with increasing distance from the sound outlet.

[0024] The second foam layer is, for example, fastened to the first foam layer. The second foam layer is, for example, bonded or welded to the first foam layer.

[0025] The second foam layer is configured such that the outer surface of the first foam layer is flush with the outer surface of the second foam layer. Thus, the transition between the first and second foam layers is neither perceptible nor noticeable to the seat occupant.

[0026] The area of ​​the second foam layer is, for example, secured within the base (Sitz) of the first foam layer. The base is, for example, formed by an opening in the first foam layer. If the second foam layer is formed of a foam element, then, for example, the edge region of the foam element can be inserted into the base, particularly the opening, where other regions of the foam element cover the opening. This securing can be achieved, for example, by adhesive bonding. Alternatively, however, any suitable securing method can be used to connect the first and second foam layers.

[0027] The covering is made of, for example, textiles, leather, or synthetic leather. Textiles have the advantage that they can be made of a sound-permeable material. The textile is, for example, generally sound-permeable or has sound-permeable inserts in the areas of the openings. In the case of leather or synthetic leather, sound permeability is achieved, for example, by forming openings in the covering, so that sound can pass through the openings.

[0028] The first foam layer is formed, for example, by polyurethane foam. Polyurethane foam is commonly used as a liner for vehicle equipment components.

[0029] The equipment components are formed, for example, by the vehicle's seats, headrests, or center console.

[0030] The present invention also relates to a method for manufacturing an equipment component with an audio pad device for a vehicle.

[0031] This method is known from prior public use. In the wing of the headrest, a speaker is inserted into a recess in the padding, the recess having a protective plate that extends across the edge region of the recess.

[0032] The object of this invention is to provide a method for manufacturing an audio padding device, wherein a snug fit is achieved in all padding areas and safety is improved. Furthermore, in this method, the design of the headrest should not be affected by components of the speaker unit, such as speaker grilles.

[0033] The objective is achieved by a method for manufacturing an equipment component for a vehicle according to the invention, the equipment component having an audio pad device.

[0034] The equipment component has a base.

[0035] At least one first foam layer is constructed on the substrate such that an opening is formed in the first foam layer in the region of the sound outlet of at least one speaker of at least one speaker device of the vehicle equipment component.

[0036] A support layer is provided so that it covers the opening.

[0037] A second foam layer is disposed after the support layer along the direction of sound propagation, such that the second foam layer covers the opening.

[0038] Provide a covering for the first and second foam layers.

[0039] The equipment components are designed for use with vehicles, and may involve land, air, or water vehicles.

[0040] The equipment component includes a substrate, which may be formed, for example, from at least one plastic component, composite component, or metal component. A first foam layer is disposed on the substrate such that an opening extending along the central axis of sound propagation exists in the first foam layer before the sound outlet of each speaker of at least one speaker device of the equipment component.

[0041] This sound-penetrating support layer is configured such that it covers the opening. The support layer can be, for example, fastened to or foamed into the first foam layer.

[0042] To secure the support layer, consider bonding, for example.

[0043] A second foam layer is positioned after the support layer in a direction parallel to the central axis of sound propagation, such that the second foam layer covers the opening. The second foam layer can be positioned, for example, such that the outer surface of the first foam layer is flush with the outer surface of the second foam layer.

[0044] Provide a covering for the first and second foam layers.

[0045] Regarding the advantages of the present invention, refer to the first aspect of the present invention.

[0046] In the following description of the accompanying drawings, embodiments of the invention are also described by way of illustrative reference. Here, for clarity (wherever different embodiments are involved), the same or similar parts or elements or areas are indicated by the same reference numerals, partially with lowercase letters.

[0047] Within the scope of this invention, features described, shown, or disclosed with reference to only one embodiment may also be provided in any other embodiment of the invention. Such modified embodiments (although not shown in the drawings) are also included in this invention.

[0048] All disclosed features are essential to this invention. The apparatus described in the cited documents and prior art is fully incorporated herein by reference, and one or more features of the technical solutions disclosed therein are to be included together in one or more of the technical solutions of this application. Such modified embodiments (even if said modified embodiments are not shown in the drawings) are also included in this invention. Attached Figure Description

[0049] Figure 1 A perspective view of a vehicle's equipment component, in the form of a headrest with audio padding, is shown.

[0050] Figure 2 Showing according to Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of a vehicle equipment component with integrated speakers.

[0051] Figure 3 Showing according to Figure 2 Exploded view of vehicle equipment components. Detailed Implementation

[0052] Figure 1 The equipment component 10 is shown. In this embodiment, the equipment component 10 is a headrest for a vehicle seat. However, alternatively, the equipment component could also be, for example, the vehicle seat itself, particularly the backrest. In so-called integral seats, the headrest is integrated into the backrest of the vehicle seat. The present invention can also be used here.

[0053] The equipment components include a head assembly 29 and a retaining device 31. The head assembly is equipped with two audio pad devices 30a and 30b (see...). Figure 1 Since the two audio pad devices 30a and 30b are constructed in principle the same, only the audio pad device 30a will be described in detail below.

[0054] according to Figure 2 and 3 The audio padding device 30a includes a base 11, a first foam layer 13, and a cover 18, wherein the first foam layer 13 and the cover 18 are components of the padding 19. The base 11 may be formed, for example, by a plastic support fastened to the backrest structure, or alternatively (not shown), for example, by a wing of the headrest supported on the plastic support.

[0055] In this example, a speaker device 12 is fixedly mounted on the substrate 11. For the sake of simplicity, the speaker device here has only one speaker 32, but alternatively, the speaker device may have multiple speakers 32.

[0056] In this embodiment, the base 11 has a recess 21 for securing the speaker device 12, wherein the speaker device 12 is secured to the edge region of the recess. Alternatively, the speaker device 12 may be provided separately. The securing of the speaker device is not important here.

[0057] The loudspeaker device 12 is configured such that the central axis m of the sound outlet 22 of the loudspeaker 22 is parallel to the x1 direction. The first foam layer 13 is provided with an opening 14 so that the sound from the loudspeaker 32 can propagate unimpeded in the x1 direction and the first foam layer 13 does not degrade the propagation of the sound in the x1 direction.

[0058] Because sound does not propagate parallel to direction x1, but rather at an angle relative to that direction, the diameter of opening 14 can be, for example, larger than the diameter of the sound outlet, or alternatively, it can be constructed in a conical shape such that the diameter of the opening increases with the distance from the sound outlet along direction x1.

[0059] An opening 14 (measured from the sound outlet) is spaced a distance l1 transversely to the central axis m by a support layer 16 that is permeable by sound, the support layer being held on a first foam layer 13 in this example. In this example, the edge regions of the support layer 16 are foamed into the first foam layer 13 for fastening. However, alternatively, other fastening methods, such as adhesive fastening, are also conceivable.

[0060] The support layer 16 prevents the cover 18 from deforming under a force F acting on it in the x2 direction, which could potentially damage the speaker 12. This is achieved by securing the support layer 16 to the first foam layer 13, which resists the force F required to deform the first foam layer 13. The length l1 is sized accordingly for a given force F.

[0061] Furthermore, when the seat occupant leans against the cover 18, the support layer 16 (in this example, fabric) helps to prevent the seat occupant from noticing the opening 14. This will be discussed in more detail below.

[0062] A second foam layer 17 is disposed after the support layer 16 along the x1 direction of sound propagation. The second foam layer 17, through which sound penetrates, also covers the opening 14 and extends transversely to the central axis m. A retaining mechanism for holding the second foam layer is formed in the area of ​​the opening 14. The second foam layer 17 is here fastened to the first foam layer 13.

[0063] In this embodiment, in order to secure the second foam layer 17 formed of foam material, the first foam layer 13 is provided with a void 15, and the edge region 28 of the second foam layer 17 is provided and, for example, adhered to the void.

[0064] In this way, by means of the elastically deformable second foam layer 17, the same elastically deformable and comfortable fit is ensured in region A of the opening 14 as in region B of the cushion 18, which is laterally opposite to the opening 14. Therefore, the seat occupant can also lean against or rest on the cushion 19 in region A of the opening 14 without feeling a difference in comfort between region B and region A of the opening 14.

[0065] The support layer 16 prevents the second foam layer from being pressed into the opening 14 in the x2 direction. Nevertheless, sound can be transmitted from the padding 19 in the x1 direction because sound can pass almost unimpeded through the opening 14, the support layer 16, the second foam layer 17, and the cover 18.

[0066] The entire covering 18, or the area of ​​the covering 18 that covers the opening 14, may be formed, for example, from a sound-permeable textile. In the latter case, the sound-permeable area covers the opening 14. If the covering 18 is formed from a material that is not very sound-permeable (e.g., leather or artificial leather), perforations 20 may be provided in the covering 18. When the covering 18 is formed from a sound-permeable material, such perforations 20 are not necessary.

[0067] First, the equipment component 10 is assembled by fastening the fastening arm 26 of the speaker assembly 12 to the edge region 27 of the opening 21. The first foam layer 13 is arranged such that the opening 14 is located in front of the sound outlet 22. The first foam layer 13 is formed, for example, from a pre-made finished foam piece.

[0068] The first foam layer 13 may include, for example, a sound-penetrating support layer 16, wherein the edge region 33 of the support layer 16 has been foamed during the manufacture of the first foam layer 13, i.e., there is a fixed connection between the first foam layer 13 and the support layer 16. Alternatively, the support layer 16 may be fastened to the first foam layer 13, for example, by means of an adhesive connection, such that the support layer 16 covers the opening 16.

[0069] A mechanism 23 for fastening the second foam layer 17 is formed on the first foam layer 13. In this embodiment, the mechanism 23 is formed by a void 15 in the first foam layer 13. The void 15 and the second foam layer 17 are sized in height H such that when the first foam layer 13 is fastened in the void 15, the outer surface 24 of the first foam layer 13 is flush with the outer surface 25 of the second foam layer 17.

[0070] The edge region 28 of the second foam layer 17 is inserted into the empty portion 15 of the first foam layer 13 and fastened to the first foam layer.

[0071] The second foam layer 17 provides the comfort of elastic deformation under the action of force F, but has the following characteristics: the second foam layer has better sound penetration than the first foam layer 13.

[0072] Subsequently, a cover 18 is provided to the equipment component 10. The cover, for example, is constructed to have high sound penetration overall, or alternatively, the cover has areas that have higher sound penetration than the rest of the area. In the latter case, the cover is configured such that the area with higher sound penetration covers the opening 14.

[0073] When selecting a cover 18 with low sound penetration, such as a leather cover, perforations 20 are inserted into the cover 18 before it is assembled.

Claims

1. An equipment component (10) for a vehicle, the equipment component comprising a base (11), at least one first foam layer (13), and a cover (18), the equipment component (10) being provided with at least one audio pad device (30), the audio pad device having at least one speaker device (12) including at least one speaker (32), each speaker (32) having a sound outlet (22), characterized in that, The first foam layer (13) has an opening (14) extending along the central axis (m) of the sound outlet (22) so that sound can pass through the opening (14) and continue in the direction (x1) toward the cover (18). The sound-penetrating support layer (16) covers the opening (14), and a second foam layer (17) is provided after the support layer (16) in the direction of sound propagation (x1) across the opening (14). The support layer (16) is formed of fabric and / or grid. The second foam layer provides the comfort of elastic deformation under force and has better sound penetration than the first foam layer.

2. The equipment component according to claim 1, characterized in that, The support layer (16) is fastened to the first foam layer (13).

3. An equipment component for a vehicle, the equipment component comprising a base (11), at least one first foam layer (13), and a cover (18), the equipment component (10) being provided with at least one audio pad device (30), the audio pad device having at least one speaker device (12) including at least one speaker (32), each speaker (32) having a sound outlet (22), characterized in that, The first foam layer (13) has an opening (14) that extends along the central axis (m) of the sound outlet (22) so that sound can pass through the opening (14) and continue in the direction (x1) toward the cover (18). The support layer (16) through which the sound passes covers the opening (14), and a second foam layer (17) is disposed after the support layer (16) in the direction of sound propagation (x1) that crosses the opening (14). The support layer (16) is foamed into the first foam layer (13).

4. The equipment component according to claim 3, characterized in that, The support layer (16) is formed of fabric and / or grid.

5. The equipment component according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The diameter of the opening (14) is greater than the diameter of the sound outlet (22), or the diameter of the opening (14) increases with the increase of the distance (I) from the sound outlet (22) of the speaker.

6. The equipment component according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The second foam layer (17) is fastened to the first foam layer (13).

7. The equipment component according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The second foam layer (17) is disposed on the first foam layer (13) such that the outer surface (24) of the first foam layer (13) and the outer surface (25) of the second foam layer (17) are flush with each other.

8. The equipment component according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The area of ​​the second foam layer (17) is located in the empty part (15) of the first foam layer (13).

9. The equipment component according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The covering (18) is made of leather, artificial leather or textiles.

10. The equipment component according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The covering (18) is formed entirely or partially of a sound-permeable textile.

11. The equipment component according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The first foam layer (13) is formed of polyurethane foam.

12. The equipment component according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The equipment component (10) is formed from a vehicle seat or headrest.

13. A method for manufacturing an equipment component (10) for a vehicle according to any one of claims 1 to 12, said equipment component having an audio pad device (30). The equipment component has a base (11). At least one first foam layer (13) is constructed on the substrate (11) such that an opening (14) is formed in the first foam layer (13) in the region of the sound outlet (22) of at least one speaker (32) of at least one speaker device (12) of the vehicle equipment component (10). A support layer (16) is provided so that the support layer covers the opening (14). A second foam layer (17) is disposed after the support layer (16) in the direction of sound propagation, such that the second foam layer covers the opening (14). Coverings (18) are provided for the first foam layer (13) and the second foam layer (17).

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