Locking device for a vehicle seat having a locking section for positively locking a locking element in a locked position

Abstract

The proposed solution relates to a locking device (V) for a vehicle seat (F). In one embodiment, at least one locking section (41) is provided on an unlocking element (4) of the locking device (V), which, when the locking elements (1A, 1B) of the locking device (V) are in the locked position, engages in a form-locking manner in a form-locking region (110A, 110B) of the locking elements (1A, 1B) and prevents the locking elements (1A, 1B) from being displaced into their unlocked position.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The proposed solution relates to a locking device for a vehicle seat. Background Art

[0002] Locking devices for locking seat components or for locking a vehicle seat in a longitudinal seat position are known, for example, from EP 0 947 380 A1. In such locking devices, at least one locking element, for example in the form of a locking pin, is provided that can be adjusted into a locked position along a locking direction. The locking element has an insertion section that, in the locked position, engages into at least one latching opening, for example, to lock the vehicle seat in the longitudinal seat position. For example, to predetermine different longitudinal seat positions, a plurality of latching openings arranged one behind the other may be provided on a rail element for longitudinal seat adjustment. To disengage the locking element from the at least one latching opening, an unlocking element is part of the locking device. When the unlocking element is adjusted in the opening direction, the locking element is adjusted into an unlocked position opposite to its locking direction, that is, along the unlocking direction.

[0003] In particular, when a locking device is provided with multiple individually adjustable locking elements, the locking elements may experience undesirable displacement movements under the dynamic loads that occur during operation. This displacement movement can be disadvantageous in the event of a crash and may negatively affect the desired orientation of the locking element relative to the at least one latching opening. In practice, locking devices are often characterized by insufficient operating comfort and, in particular, an unpleasant tactile sensation, as a relatively long stroke is required to compensate for existing tolerances for the supposedly secure locking. Furthermore, it is often observed that when multiple partially non-engaged locking elements must be unlocked (within the process), the operating force to be applied manually or electrically by the user to release the lock is disadvantageous in terms of its height and varying course. Consequently, relatively complex mechanisms are typically provided to both achieve unlocking and, on the other hand, effectively lock the at least one locking element of the locking device in its locked position. Summary of the Invention

[0004] Against this background, the proposed solution is based on the object of providing an improved locking device.

[0005] This object is achieved by a locking device according to the present application.

[0006] According to a first aspect, a locking device for a vehicle seat is proposed, in which at least one locking section is provided on an unlocking element of the locking device, which locking section is engaged in a form-locking manner in a form-locking area of ​​the locking element when the locking element is in the locking position and prevents the locking element from being shifted into the unlocking position.

[0007] In this respect, the proposed solution is based on the basic idea that an additional locking function is integrated into the unlocking element provided for unlocking, by which the locking element in its locked position is locked via at least one form fit against displacement into its unlocked position.

[0008] By positively engaging the locking section in the positive-locking region of the locking element, it is generally possible to limit the displaceability of the locking element opposite to the locking direction. This means, in particular, that when the locking section of the unlocking element positively engages in the positive-locking region, at least one locking element cannot be displaced, or at most only slightly, out of its locked position. However, in an alternative embodiment, the locking section can also engage with play in the positive-locking region of the locking element in the locked position. This facilitates adjustment of the unlocking element so that the locking section engages with the positive-locking region and is displaced out of it again when the locking device is unlocked. In particular, the risk of jamming is reduced by the locking section engaging with play in the positive-locking region.

[0009] The form-fitting region can in principle be formed, for example, by a form-fitting opening, a form-fitting web or a form-fitting recess on the locking element.

[0010] When the locking section engages with clearance in the form-locking region, a limited degree of displacement of the locking element is permitted, but this is limited to the extent that the maximum permissible displacement of the locking element does not release the lock. Thus, for example, the spacing between two opposing stop surfaces in the form-locking opening, between which the locking section can be displaced, can be predetermined to a limited extent. Consequently, under loads dynamically acting on the locking device, the locking element can be displaced relative to the locking section and / or the locking section can be displaced relative to the locking element. However, the engagement of the locking section in the form-locking opening keeps the displacement of the locking element limited, so that this displacement does not completely release the lock. This ensures that the locking element cannot be completely disengaged, or at least cannot be disengaged from all of the multiple locking holes in which it engages in its locked position, for example, to lock a vehicle seat in its occupied longitudinal seat position. Thus, a single locking element can also be passed via its insertion section through a plurality of locking openings in order to provide a (more) load-resistant locking.

[0011] In one embodiment, when the locking element is in its locked position (and therefore when the locking device is locked), the locking section can be displaced out of the positive-locking region and the locking element can be adjusted into its unlocked position by adjusting the unlocking element in its opening direction. Thus, as the unlocking element is adjusted in its opening direction, the locking section is displaced out of the positive-locking region and subsequently, with further adjustment of the unlocking element in the opening direction, the locking element is adjusted into its unlocked position. The unlocking element is thus configured and arranged such that, when adjusted in its opening direction, the locking section is displaced out of the positive-locking region and, with further adjustment of the unlocking element in the opening direction, the locking element is adjusted into its unlocked position. Thus, the adjustment movement of the unlocking element reliably releases the additional locking effected by the locking section and also adjusts the locking element into its unlocked position.

[0012] In one embodiment, the unlocking element may alternatively or additionally include an active surface that is inclined relative to the unlocking element's opening direction. This active surface, when in contact with the locking element and when the unlocking element is adjusted in the opening direction, allows the locking element to be adjusted opposite the locking direction via this active surface. When the unlocking element is adjusted in the unlocking direction, the active surface, for example, rests against the locking element (e.g., an adjustment section of the locking element), adjusting the locking element opposite the locking mechanism. The adjustment section of the locking element, on which the unlocking element acts via the active surface, may, for example, comprise a control edge and / or a similarly obliquely extending abutment surface, along which the active surface moves when the unlocking element is adjusted in the opening direction. In principle, the obliquely extending active surface of the unlocking element allows for a more compact design of the locking mechanism, since the unlocking element's adjustment direction differs from the adjustment direction of the locking element.

[0013] In one embodiment, the locking element is elastically preloaded into its locked position by at least one spring element, so that the locking device automatically locks when the locking element is opposite the latching opening and there is no external obstruction to the locking element engaging with the latching opening. In another embodiment, the at least one spring element can also preload the unlocking element by virtue of the locking element contacting the unlocking element (e.g., at the aforementioned obliquely extending engagement surface), more specifically, in a closing direction extending opposite to its opening direction. Thus, the locking element is elastically preloaded into its locked position by the at least one spring element, and in the closing direction of the unlocking element. Thus, the unlocking element is preloaded into the locked position by the spring element, in which the locking section engages with the positive-locking region of the locking element. By means of the inclined extending active surface of the unlocking element, on the one hand, for example, a restoring force applied by a spring element can be transferred to the unlocking element via the adjusting section of the locking element so as to adjust the unlocking element in the closing direction, and on the other hand, an adjusting force applied to the unlocking element from the outside can be transferred to the locking element so as to adjust the locking element into its unlocked position.

[0014] In one embodiment, the unlocking element is extrudable in the opening direction. The unlocking element can thus be loaded with pressure to release the locking mechanism. In other words, the unlocking element is configured, for example, to be manually or electrically controlled to be extruded in the opening direction to release the locking mechanism imposed by at least one locking element. This allows for targeted unlocking by squeezing the unlocking element, for example, against the effect of a restoring force exerted by at least one spring element. Applying pressure allows the unlocking element to be adjusted in the opening direction, which can improve user comfort. Furthermore, this allows for a less complex unlocking mechanism, if necessary, than one in which the unlocking element must be pulled in the opening direction to release the locking mechanism.

[0015] In one embodiment, the locking direction of the locking element (and the opposite unlocking direction) is perpendicular to the opening direction of the unlocking element. This can be achieved, for example, by an active surface extending obliquely with respect to the opening direction of the unlocking element, via which the actuating force can be transferred from the unlocking element to the locking element.

[0016] In one embodiment variant, the locking device includes at least two, in particular exactly two, locking elements, which in the locked position engage jointly or individually in at least one latching opening. Thus, a double mechanical locking of the longitudinal position of the seat, for example, is achieved by at least two, or also by exactly two, locking elements. If each locking element engages in a latching opening, this includes, in particular, providing a plurality of latching openings for predefining different adjustment positions, in particular longitudinal positions of the seat, and predefining the adjustment position by engaging in two latching openings that follow one another in the longitudinal direction of the seat.

[0017] In order to further flexibly lock, for example, a vehicle seat in different longitudinal seat positions using a locking device in this manner and simultaneously make it more load-resistant, in one embodiment, at least two locking elements are spaced apart from one another, and a plurality of latching openings arranged one behind the other (e.g., with reference to the longitudinal axis of the seat) are dimensioned and spaced apart from one another to predetermine different adjustment positions, so that at least two locking elements can engage together in a single latching opening or each in two adjacent latching openings separated from one another by a latching tab, with the latching tab being located between at least two locking elements that engage in adjacent latching openings. In this way, an adjustment position can be predetermined and thus met by each locking element, wherein an additional (clearance-free) locking is then provided by at least one or precisely one further locking element. Due to the corresponding spacing between the locking elements and the latching openings, the further locking elements can always engage either in the same latching opening or in adjacent latching openings.

[0018] In a further development based on this, at least one locking section of the unlocking element engages in a form-locking manner in the form-locking regions of at least two locking elements and thus prevents the at least two locking elements from being displaced into their unlocked positions when the at least two locking elements are in their locked positions. Thus, at least one locking section of an unlocking element engages both in a (first) form-locking region of a (first) locking element and in another (second) form-locking region of the other (second) locking element in order to prevent the two locking elements in their respective locked positions from being displaced into their respective unlocked positions.

[0019] By providing locking sections for at least two, or precisely two, locking elements, the mechanism for locking and unlocking can be designed relatively simply and, therefore, less complex, even for locking devices with high mechanical load capacities. Furthermore, the locking device can be designed to be extremely compact without having to compromise on failsafety. For example, by adjusting the unlocking element in the opening direction, at least one locking section can be displaced out of at least two positive-locking regions of the locking element. With further adjustment of the unlocking element, in one embodiment, the (two) locking elements can be adjusted synchronously to their unlocked positions. Thus, by adjusting the unlocking element in the opening direction, the locking section is displaced out of the positive-locking region of the locking element, and subsequently, at least two locking elements are adjusted, if necessary, synchronously to their unlocked positions.

[0020] The previously explained aspect of achieving double locking of the two locking elements by means of a positive fit using a single locking section (which, while providing effective mechanical locking, also contributes to a compact design of the locking device) is essentially independent of the fact that the locking section is integrated into an unlocking element that forms part of an unlocking mechanism for releasing the locking provided by the locking device. Accordingly, another independent aspect of the proposed solution provides a locking device for a vehicle seat, comprising at least two, in particular exactly two, locking elements that can each be adjusted along a locking direction into a locked position, each having an insertion section that, in the respective locked position, engages in at least one latching opening. The at least two locking elements can each be adjusted counter to their respective locking direction, that is, along the unlocking direction, into an unlocked position, in which the respective locking element is disengaged from the at least one latching opening, and the vehicle seat can thus be adjusted in its seat position by the locking device. It is now further provided that at least one locking section respectively engages in a form-fitting manner in a form-fitting region on the locking element and prevents the locking elements from being displaced into their unlocked position when at least two locking elements are in their locked position.

[0021] As explained above, this aspect of the proposed solution is based on the mechanical locking of at least two or exactly two locking elements in their locked positions, in particular by means of a single locking segment engaging in a positive-locking region on each locking element. Such a locking segment can be integrated into any additional element, in particular an unlocking element. The locking segment can be adjusted, in particular by means of a quality-controlled locking or by means of a pre-crash actuator and / or used in a linearly or rotationally adjustable locking element. Alternatively or additionally, combinations with the embodiment variants of the solution aspects explained above can be provided.

[0022] For example, the proposed locking device can be used to form a locking assembly, which, in addition to the locking device, comprises a first and a second rail element for adjusting the longitudinal seat position of a vehicle seat. The first rail element is, for example, stationary and fixed to the floor of the vehicle when the vehicle seat is installed in the vehicle. Another rail element can be moved on the first rail element and connected to the vehicle seat, so that the vehicle seat can be adjusted along the first rail element with respect to its longitudinal seat position using the second rail element. In order to lock the longitudinal seat position, the first and second rail elements can then be locked to each other by means of at least one locking device. In this case, at least one adjustable locking element (or at least two or exactly two locking elements) of the locking device can be supported on the first rail element or on the second rail element.

[0023] In one embodiment, the locking element is adjustable along an adjustment axis perpendicular to the longitudinal extension direction of the first and / or second rail element between its locked position and its unlocked position. In its locked position, the locking element engages in at least one latching opening in the first or second rail element, which is provided in a section of the first or second rail element that is (in particular) transverse to the longitudinal extension direction and transverse to the adjustment axis. With reference to the installation situation of the vehicle seat including the locking assembly in the vehicle, such a section then projects upwards, for example, and at least one locking element engages laterally in a latching opening of such a section in its locked position. With reference to the embodiment explained above, it is of course also possible to provide at least two or exactly two locking elements that are adjustable, for example, along parallel adjustment axes.

[0024] The proposed locking device can in principle be provided, for example, for locking a vehicle seat in a longitudinal seat position or for locking seat parts of a vehicle seat, such as a seat lower part, a seat cushion part or a backrest part. Thus, by engaging at least one locking element in at least one latching opening, for example

[0025] - the vehicle seat can be locked in the longitudinal position of the seat at the vehicle floor, or

[0026] - for example, in seats with an adjustable backrest angle, the ability to lock the rotatably or movably supported lower seat part, or

[0027] - Ability to lock seat cushion inclination, backrest inclination or headrest inclination.

[0028] In the context of the proposed solution, a vehicle seat is also provided, which has an embodiment variant of the proposed locking device according to the first and / or second aspect or has a corresponding locking assembly. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0029] The figures show by way of example possible implementation variants of the proposed solution.

[0030] Here:

[0031] Figure 1 A vehicle seat is shown in detail with a first embodiment variant of the proposed locking device for locking the longitudinal position of the vehicle seat;

[0032] Figure 2A The single figure shows a device to be fixed to the vehicle floor for Figure 1 a first track element of a vehicle seat;

[0033] Figure 2B The second rail element is shown in the single figure, which is held in a movable manner in the installed state. Figure 2A at the first rail element;

[0034] Figure 3 The locking device is shown in a perspective view and is connected to the seat frame of the vehicle seat;

[0035] Figures 4A to 4C The different views show a locking device with exactly two pin-shaped locking elements in a locked state, in which the two locking elements occupy a locked position;

[0036] Figures 5A to 5C In with Figures 4A to 4C The coordinated illustration shows the locking device under dynamic load, by which the locking element is displaced in the unlocking direction, but is locked against unlocking by a locking section which engages in a form-fitting manner in the locking element.

[0037] Figures 6A to 6C In with Figures 4A to 4C The coordinated illustrations show the locking device during the locking process and thus during locking of the assumed longitudinal position of the seat, wherein first only one of the locking elements is locked and only then the other locking element is locked;

[0038] Figures 7A to 7C The locking element of the locking device is shown schematically and in different views, engaging in the latching opening of the first rail element;

[0039] Figures 8A to 8C In with Figures 4A to 4C The coordinated illustration shows the locking device at the beginning of unlocking when the unlocking element of the locking device is actuated;

[0040] Figures 9A to 9C In with Figures 4A to 4CThe coordinated illustrations show the locking device in the unlocked state, in which the two locking elements no longer engage in the locking openings of the first and second rail elements provided for locking. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0041] Figure 1 A vehicle seat F is partially shown, which is fastened to a rail system with a seat underframe G and can be fastened longitudinally displaceably to the vehicle floor via the rail system. The rail system has two rail elements in the form of seat rails S1 and S2 on each longitudinal side, which are assigned to one of the longitudinal sides of the vehicle seat F. A further pair of rails of similar design is provided correspondingly on the opposite longitudinal side of the vehicle seat F.

[0042] exist Figure 1 The first seat rail S1 of the rail pair shown is designed for fastening to the vehicle floor and has at least one fastening section B for this purpose. The second seat rail S2 is movably held on the first seat rail S1, to which the vehicle seat F is fastened via the seat frame G. In this embodiment, the two seat rails S1 and S2 have curved rail sections A1.1, A1.2 or A2.1, A2.2, A2.3, through which the seat rails S1 and S2 interlock and are interlocked, and latching openings R1A, R1B or R2A, R2B are formed in these rail sections. Thus, the first seat rail S1, which is fixed to the floor, has two rail sections A1.1 and A1.2, which are opposite each other and accommodate the movable rail section A2.2 of the second seat rail S2 between them. The (central) rail section A2.2 of the second seat rail S2, which is accommodated between the two rail sections A1.1 and A1.2 of the first seat rail S1, is centrally located on the second seat rail S2 between the two edge rail sections A2.1 and A2.3 and therefore faces each of the two edge rail sections A2.1 and A2.3 (with different end faces). When the rail system is properly installed, if the second seat rail S2 is pushed onto the first seat rail S1 as required along the longitudinal axis of extension of the first seat rail S1, the second seat rail S2 bridges the two rail sections A1.1 and A1.2 of the first seat rail S1 with the edge rail sections A2.1 and A2.3.

[0043] Attached to one of the outer edge-side rail sections A2.1, A2.3, in the figure to the rail section A2.1 shown on the right, is a locking device V. The locking device V is thus fixed to the movably mounted second seat rail S2.

[0044] For fastening to the second seat rail S2, the locking device V has a housing 2. This housing 2 can be fastened to the edge rail section A2.1, for example, by at least one welded connection, screw connection, bolt connection and / or rivet connection.

[0045] The locking device has two locking elements in the form of locking pins 1A, 1B, the locking elements (see in particular Figure 3 ) are supported on the housing 2 in a manner that allows displacement along mutually parallel adjustment axes. In this case, each locking pin 1A, 1B is elastically prestressed into the extended position and thus into the locked position by an associated spring element in the form of a compression spring 3A or 3B.

[0046] exist Figure 1 or Figure 3 In the locked position shown, the locking pins 1A, 1B engage in the locking openings R1A, R1B, R2A, R2B of the seat rails S1 and S2, which coincide with each other in pairs and are possibly flush with each other, in order to lock the seat rails S1 and S2 to each other and thus lock the longitudinal position of the vehicle seat F. In this case, each locking pin 1A, 1B is provided with an insertion section 10A, 10B (see in particular FIG. Figure 4C ) passes through two pairs of latching openings R2A, R2B constructed opposite each other on the track sections A2.2 and A2.3 of the second seat rail, and also through two pairs of latching openings R1A and R1B opposite each other constructed on the track sections 1.1 and 1.2 of the first seat rail S1 fixed to the floor and overlapping for this purpose.

[0047] If with the help of Figure 2A As shown in the individual views of the first seat rail S1, each rail section A1.1 and A1.2 of the first seat rail S1 has a large number of latching openings R1A, R1B, which follow one another along the longitudinal extension of the first seat rail S1 in order to predetermine different longitudinal seat positions for different vehicle seats F.

[0048] In contrast, according to Figure 2B On the second longitudinally movable seat rail S2, only one pair of locking openings R2A, R2B for the locking pins 1A, 1B are constructed on each rail section A2.1, A2.2 and A2.3. The locking pins 1A, 1B of the locking device V fixed relative to the rail can pass through this pair of locking openings and engage in the possible locking openings R1A, R1B of the seat rail S1 depending on the longitudinal position of the seat.

[0049] The housing 2 of the locking device V has a support portion 20 for locking elements 1A and 1B that can be adjusted transversely to the longitudinal extension of the seat rails S1 and S2. In the present case, this support portion 20 is formed, for example, by a U-shaped sheet metal part, the base of which is provided with two through-openings for the ends of the locking pins 1A and 1B to pass through. The locking pins 1A and 1B are preloaded into their locked position toward the section of the guide portion 21 of the housing 2 that is opposite the base by compression springs 3A and 3B, which are supported internally at the base of the support portion and at the locking pins 1A and 1B.

[0050] The guide portion 21 has a common through-opening or two separate through-openings for the introduction sections 10A, 10B of the locking pins 1A and 1B. In addition, the guide portion 21 of the housing 2 forms a guide slot 210 for the unlocking element 4 of the locking device V (see in particular Figure 4A ). The unlocking element 4 is guided on the housing 2 in a movable manner perpendicular to the adjustment axis of the locking pins 1A and 1B via this guide slot 210. The guide portion 21 and its guide slot 210 thus provide linear guidance for the unlocking element 4. As will be explained in more detail below, the unlocking element 4 can act on the locking pins 1A and 1B in order to adjust them in the unlocking direction (currently toward the base of the support portion 20) and thus disengage them from the rail-side latching openings R1A, R1B, R2A, and R2B, thereby allowing longitudinal adjustment of the vehicle seat F along the first seat rail S1 fixed relative to the floor.

[0051] In the completely locked state of the locking device V, the locking pins 1A and 1B are Figure 4A 、 4B The locking elements 4 and 4C protrude with their insertion sections 10A and 10B from the housing 2 of the locking device V to the greatest extent and engage in all overlapping latching openings R1A, R1B, R2A and R2B of the two seat rails S1 and S2, in the present case four, in order to lock the vehicle seat F in the longitudinal seat position. The unlocking element 4 is adjusted into the locked position under the action of the compression springs 3A and 3B. The two compression springs 3A and 3B thus preload the locking pins 1A and 1B associated with them to the desired position. Figures 4A to 4C At the same time, the locking pins 1A and 1B are pressed by their respective adjustment sections 11A and 11B against the sloped active surface 401 of the adjustment body 40 of the unlocking element 4 and thus preload the locking element into the locked position (in the present case with reference to the locking device V). Figure 1(The installed position is shown upwards.) The adjustment sections 11A, 11B of the locking pins 1A, 1B are located between their introduction sections 10A, 10B and the shaft section 12A, 12B, which supports the respective compression spring 3A, 3B and extends along the shaft section. Compression springs 3A, 3B are supported on the locking pins 1A, 1B at the end of the adjustment section 11A, 11B, which is widened relative to the shaft section 12A, 12B, in order to preload the locking pins toward their respective locked position.

[0052] In addition to an adjustment body 40, on which an engagement surface 401 for contacting the locking pins 1A and 1B is provided, the unlocking element 4 also has an actuating section 42 and a locking section 41. The actuating section 42 of the unlocking element 4 is passed through the guide slot 210 in the guide portion 21, so that the actuating section 41 can be actuated from outside the housing 2 of the locking device V to manually or electrically control unlocking of the locking device V. In this case, the locking section 41 of the unlocking element 4 is also provided for positively locking engagement in the positive-locking region formed by the positive-locking openings 110A and 110B of the locking pins 1A and 1B, thereby additionally preventing the locking pins from being displaced from their locked position into their unlocked position, in which the locking pins 1A and 1B no longer engage with the latching openings R1A, R1B, R2A, and R2B. The adjusting body 40 of the unlocking element 4 extends with one end centrally through the pair of locking pins 1A and 1B, so that the locking section 41 and the actuating section 42 provided at this end are located on different sides of the locking pins 1A, 1B.

[0053] In the locked position of the unlocking element 4 shown, the locking section 41 of the unlocking element 4 completely engages in two positive-locking openings 110A and 110B, which are formed on the bottom side of the locking pins 1A and 1B in the region of the respective adjustment sections 11A and 11B. The locking section 41 engages without play in the two mutually facing, one-sidedly open positive-locking openings 110A, 110B of the locking pins 1A and 1B, relative to a transverse axis that is transverse to the adjustment axis of the locking pins 1A and 1B. Thus, a defined minimum spacing between the locking pins 1A and 1B can be ensured by the engagement of the locking section 42 in the positive-locking openings 110A, 110B.

[0054] The locking section 41 engages with play along the adjustment axis in the form-fitting openings 110A and 110B, thereby allowing the locking pins 1A and 1B to be displaced to a limited extent along their respective longitudinal axis and adjustment axis from the respective locking position shown in the direction of their unlocking position. Figures 4A to 4CIf the locking pin 1A or 1B abuts against the first (right) stop surface 111.1A or 111.1B of the respective form-locking opening 110A or 110B, the locking pin 1A or 1B can be displaced in the direction of its unlocking position by a limited displacement distance predetermined by the length of the respective form-locking opening 110A, 110B, until the locking pin 1A or 1B abuts against the locking section 41 of the unlocking element 4 through the opposite stop surface 111.2A or 111.2B of the form-locking opening 110A or 110B. Figures 5A to 5C As shown, the displacement path is dimensioned so that even at maximum displacement, for example due to dynamically applied loads on the locking device V, displacement of each locking pin 1A or 1B toward the unlocked position does not disengage the respective insertion section 10A or 10B from the two seat rails S1 and S2. In the illustrated embodiment variant, due to the allowable displacement caused by the playful engagement of the locking section 41 in the form-fitting openings 110A and 110B, at most the locking pin 1A or 1B can be disengaged from the outermost latching opening R2B at the edge of the rail section A2.3 of the second seat rail S2 due to externally applied loads on the locking device V. However, each locking pin 1A, 1B is always engaged with the latching openings R1A and R1B of the first seat rail S1 and the latching opening R2A of the second seat rail S2 located therebetween, and further displacement is also prevented by the locking section 41.

[0055] If with the help of Figure 6A and 6CAs shown in more detail in Figures 7A to 7C, in the present locking device V designed for two-pin locking and coordinated with the latching openings R1A, R1B of the first seat rail, the two latching pins 1A and 1B always engage with the two seat rails S1 and S2 when the vehicle seat F is locked in the longitudinal seat position. If, for example, the vehicle seat F is first moved to a (new) longitudinal seat position while the locking device V is unlocked, then at least one of the latching pins 1A and 1B always immediately engages in the first latching opening R1A, R1B of the first seat rail S1 when the first latching opening is opposite the second latching opening R2A, R2B of the second seat rail and the unlocking element 4 cannot counteract the corresponding adjustment of the latching pins 1A and 1B, preloaded by the respective compression spring 3A or 3B. If one of the locking pins 1A or 1B is engaged in the locking openings R1A and R1B of the first seat rail S1, the second locking pin 1B or 1A, which has not been engaged so far, can be locked by longitudinal movement of the seat frame G and therefore the second seat rail S2 carrying the locking device V (a seat rail carrying a large number of locking openings following one another along the longitudinal axis can alternatively be moved with the seat frame G, as long as this seat rail is fixed relative to the seat and the seat rail carrying the locking device V should be fixed relative to the floor).

[0056] In the present case, the two locking pins 1A and 1B are spaced apart from each other and the multiple locking openings R1B (and therefore also the opposing locking openings R1A) of the first seat rail S1 that are arranged one behind the other are sized and spaced apart from each other so that the two locking pins 1A and 1B can either be engaged together in a single locking opening R1B or individually in two adjacent locking openings R1B that are separated from each other by a locking tab ST on the first seat rail S1 so that the locking tab ST is located between the two locking pins 1A and 1B. The two locking pins 1A and 1B are thus positioned at a pin spacing d1 that is greater than or equal to the tab width s of the locking tab ST between the two locking openings R1B. The two locking pins 1A and 1B can thus be engaged in two different locking openings R1B on the first seat rail S1 via their respective introduction sections 10A, 10B (see FIG. 1 ). Figure 7A ).

[0057] At the same time, the latching opening R1B is designed with an opening width b and the two locking pins 1A and 1B are designed with a pin pair width d2 at their insertion sections 10A and 10B. When the vehicle seat F is positioned accordingly and the two seat rails S1 and S2 therefore assume corresponding relative positions to one another, the two insertion sections 10A and 10B can also be engaged together in the separate latching opening R1B of the first seat rail S1 (see FIG. Figure 7B) It is therefore effective that the pin pair width d2, which measures the distance between two side surfaces facing each other at the insertion sections 10A and 10B extending parallel to each other, is smaller than or equal to the opening width b of the latching opening R1B.

[0058] If, for example, only the first locking pin 1A initially engages in the latching opening R1B due to its elastic prestressing in the latching direction VR, then only the movably guided second seat rail S2 must be displaced in the longitudinal direction LR relative to the first seat rail S1 fixed to the floor until the second locking pin 1B, which is prestressed in the latching direction VR, can also either engage and subsequently latch into the adjacent latching opening R1B of the first seat rail S1 or into the same latching opening R1B. In this way, both locking pins 1A and 1B always engage in a play-free, positive-locking manner with the two seat rails S1 and S2 in the locked position of the vehicle seat F. Thus, every possible longitudinal seat position of the vehicle seat F is met by at least one locking pin 1A or 1B, and play-free locking is ensured by the subsequent latching of the respective second locking pin 1B or A1.

[0059] If the two locking pins 1A and 1B are engaged as intended and displaced into their locked position, the locking section 41 of the unlocking element 4 is also positioned in a form-fitting manner in the form-fitting openings 110A and 110B of the locking pins 1A and 1 B. If the locking device V is now to be unlocked in order to allow adjustment of the longitudinal position of the vehicle seat F, the unlocking element 4 is actuated, pressing it in the opening direction OR against the locking pins 1A and 1B.

[0060] When the unlocking element 4 is actuated at the actuating section 42 protruding at the upper side of the locking pins 1A and 1B, Figures 8A to 8C First, the cuboid locking section 41, which is widened transversely relative to the adjustment body 40 of the unlocking element 4, is displaced out of the positive-locking openings 110A and 110B. Furthermore, the ramp-shaped active surface 401 of the adjustment body 4, which extends obliquely relative to the opening direction OR, slides over a respective control edge of the locking pins 1A and 1B. These control edges are provided at the edge of the through-opening of the pair of locking pins 1A and 1B, through which the unlocking element 4 extends. After a defined idle travel, i.e., during further displacement in the opening direction OR, the unlocking element 4 comes into contact with the control edges formed on the adjustment sections 11A and 11B and the obliquely extending abutment surfaces of the adjustment sections 11A and 11B, which may be adjacent to these control edges, thereby simultaneously pressing the locking pins 1A and 1B in the unlocking direction ER perpendicular to the opening direction OR and thereby disengaging them from the latching openings R1A, R1B, R2A, and R2B.

[0061] If based on Figures 9A to 9C, the unlocking element 4 is pressed (downward) in the opening direction OR so that the insertion sections 10A and 10B no longer engage in the mutually opposite latching openings R1A, R1B, R2A and R2B of the two seat rails S1 and S2, and the vehicle seat F can be adjusted with respect to its longitudinal seat position. If the unlocking element 4 is then no longer held in the open position by the externally applied adjustment force and the locking pins 1A and 1B are therefore no longer held Figures 9A to 9C In the unlocked position shown, the locking pins 1A and 1B automatically snap into the latching openings R1A, R1B, R2A and R2B with their insertion sections 10A and 10B under the preload of the compression springs 3A and 3B as soon as the desired longitudinal seat position is assumed.

[0062] Under the preload of compression springs 3A and 3B, which preload locking pins 1A and 1B into their locked positions, the unlocking element 4 is also pressed in the closing direction CR (upward), which is opposite to the opening direction OR. Thus, each locking pin 1A, 1B acts on the adjustment body 40 of the unlocking element 4 via its respective adjustment section 11A, 11B at an engagement surface 401 and, when displaced toward its locked position, presses the unlocking element 4 perpendicularly to the locking direction VR in the closing direction CR. The ability of the unlocking element 4 to move in the closing direction CR is limited by the locking section 41 that engages in the form-locking openings 110A and 110B. In the locked position of the unlocking element 4, the locking section 41 is again connected in a form-locking manner to the locking pins 1A, 1B, and the locking pins 1A, 1B are locked in their currently occupied locked position against returning to the unlocked position.

[0063] Although the locking device V shown is provided for locking the vehicle seat F in the longitudinal position of the seat, in other embodiments this locking device can be provided, for example, for locking seat parts of the vehicle seat F, for example, for locking a seat lower part arranged on the seat frame G, a seat cushion part arranged on the seat frame G, or a backrest part whose inclination can be adjusted relative to the seat frame G. By engaging the locking pins 1A, 1B in at least one corresponding latching opening, it is then possible, for example, to

[0064] - for example, in seats with an adjustable backrest angle, the ability to lock the rotatably or movably supported lower seat part, or

[0065] - Ability to lock seat cushion inclination, backrest inclination or headrest inclination.

[0066] Reference Signs List

[0067] 1A, 1B locking pins (locking elements)

[0068] 10A, 10B lead-in sections

[0069] 110A, 110B form-locking opening

[0070] 111.1A, 111.2A, stop surface

[0071] 111.1B, 111.2B

[0072] 11A, 11B adjustment section

[0073] 12A, 12B pole sections

[0074] 2 Housing

[0075] 20 Supporting part

[0076] 21 Boot Section

[0077] 210 Guide Seam

[0078] 3A, 3B compression spring (spring element)

[0079] 4 Unlock components

[0080] 40 Adjust the body

[0081] 401 active surface

[0082] 41 Locking section

[0083] 42 operating sections

[0084] A1.1, A1.2, Track Section

[0085] A2.1, A2.2, A2.3

[0086] B Fastening section

[0087] b Opening width

[0088] CR closing direction

[0089] d1 Pin spacing

[0090] d2 Pin pair width

[0091] ER unlock direction

[0092] F Vehicle Seat

[0093] G Seat frame

[0094] LR longitudinal direction

[0095] OR Open direction

[0096] R1A, R1B First latch opening

[0097] R2A, R2B Second latch opening

[0098] s Width of splice

[0099] S1, S2 seat tracks (track components)

[0100] ST snap-on tabs

[0101] V-locking device

[0102] VR locking direction

Claims

1. A locking device for a vehicle seat (F), said locking device comprising at least: a locking element (1A, 1B) adjustable along a locking direction (VR) into a locking position, said locking element comprising an insertion section (10A, 10B) which, in said locking position, engages in at least one latching opening (R1A, R1B, R2A, R2B), and - an unlocking element (4) adjustable in an opening direction (OR), wherein By adjusting the unlocking element (4) in its opening direction (OR), the locking elements (1A, 1B) can be adjusted counter to the locking direction (VR) into an unlocking position, in which the locking elements (1A, 1B) are disengaged from the at least one latching opening (R1A, R1B, R2A, R2B) to allow adjustment. It is characterized in that At least one locking section (41) is provided on the unlocking element (4), and when the locking element (1A, 1B) is in the locking position, the locking section is engaged in a form-locking manner in a form-locking area (110A, 110B) of the locking element (1A, 1B) and prevents the locking element (1A, 1B) from being displaced into the unlocking position.

2. The locking device according to claim 1, characterized in that The displaceability of the locking element (1A, 1B) opposite to the locking direction (VR) is limited by a locking section (41) which engages in a form-locking manner in a form-locking region (110A, 110B) of the locking element (1A, 1B).

3. The locking device according to claim 2, characterized in that The locking section (41) engages with play in the form-fitting area (110A, 110B) when the locking element (1A, 1B) is in the locking position.

4. The locking device according to claim 1, characterized in that When the locking element (1A, 1B) is in its locking position, by adjusting the unlocking element (4) toward the opening direction (OR) of the unlocking element, the locking section (41) can be displaced out of the form-locking area (110A, 110B) and the locking element (1A, 1B) can be adjusted into its unlocking position.

5. The locking device according to claim 1, characterized in that The unlocking element (4) has an active surface (401) inclined relative to the opening direction (OR) of the unlocking element (4), and the locking elements (1A, 1B) can be adjusted opposite to the locking direction (VR) via the active surface through contact between the active surface (401) and the locking elements (1A, 1B) and when the unlocking element (4) is adjusted toward the opening direction (OR).

6. The locking device according to claim 1, characterized in that The locking element (1A, 1B) is elastically preloaded into its locking position by at least one spring element (3A, 3B), and the at least one spring element (3A, 3B) preloads the unlocking element (4) toward a closing direction (CR) opposite to an opening direction (OR) of the unlocking element due to contact between the locking element (1A, 1B) and the unlocking element (4).

7. The locking device according to claim 1, characterized in that The unlocking element (4) is pressable in the opening direction (OR).

8. The locking device according to claim 1, characterized in that The locking direction (VR) of the locking element (1A, 1B) is perpendicular to the opening direction (OR) of the unlocking element (4).

9. The locking device according to claim 1, characterized in that The locking device (V) comprises at least two locking elements (1A, 1B) which, in the locking position, engage jointly in at least one latching opening (R1A, R1B) or respectively engage in at least one latching opening (R1A, R1B, R2A, R2B).

10. The locking device according to claim 9, characterized in that The at least two locking elements (1A, 1B) are spaced apart from each other and a plurality of latching openings (R1A, R1B) arranged one behind the other are dimensioned and spaced apart from each other for predefined different adjustment positions, so that the at least two locking elements (1A, 1B) can be engaged together in a single latching opening (R1A, R1B) or can be engaged individually in two adjacent latching openings (R1A, R1B) separated from each other by latching tabs (ST), so that the latching tabs (ST) are located between at least two locking elements (1A, 1B) engaged in adjacent latching openings (R1A, R1B).

11. The locking device according to claim 9, characterized in that When the at least two locking elements (1A, 1B) are in their locking positions, at least one locking section (41) of the unlocking element (4) engages in a form-locking manner in form-locking areas (110A, 110B) on the at least two locking elements (1A, 1B) and thus prevents the at least two locking elements (1A, 1B) from being displaced into their unlocking positions.

12. The locking device according to claim 4, characterized in that The locking device (V) comprises at least two locking elements (1A, 1B), which are respectively engaged in at least one latching opening (R1A, R1B) in the locking position or are respectively engaged in at least one latching opening (R1A, R1B, R2A, R2B), wherein, when the locking elements (1A, 1B) are in their locking positions, by adjusting the unlocking element (4) in the opening direction (OR) of the unlocking element, the locking section (41) can be shifted out of the form-locking area (110A, 110B) and the at least two locking elements (1A, 1B) can be adjusted into their unlocking positions.

13. A locking device for a vehicle seat (F), comprising: At least two locking elements (1A, 1B) are adjustable into a locking position along a locking direction (VR), each having an introduction section (10A, 10B) which engages in at least one latching opening (R1A, R1B, R2A, R2B) in the respective locking position. in, At least two locking elements (1A, 1B) can be adjusted into an unlocking position opposite to their respective locking direction (VR), in which the respective locking element (1A, 1B) is disengaged from the at least one latching opening (R1A, R1B, R2A, R2B). It is characterized in that At least one locking section (41) is provided, which, when the at least two locking elements (1A, 1B) are in their locking positions, respectively engages in a form-locking manner in form-locking areas (110A, 110B) on the locking elements (1A, 1B) and prevents the locking elements (1A, 1B) from being displaced into their unlocking positions.

14. A locking assembly comprising a first rail element (S1) for adjusting the longitudinal position of a vehicle seat (F) and a second rail element (S2) movable at the first rail element (S1), and a locking device (V) according to claim 1, by which the first and second rail elements (S1, S2) can be locked to each other.

15. The locking assembly according to claim 14, wherein: The locking element (1A, 1B) can be adjusted between its locking position and its unlocking position along an adjustment axis perpendicular to the longitudinal extension direction of the first and / or second rail element (S1, S2), and in its locking position can be engaged in at least one locking opening (R1A, R1B, R2A, R2B) on the first or second rail element (S1, S2), the locking opening being arranged in a section (A1.1, A1.2, A2.2, A2.3) of the first or second rail element (S1, S2) extending transversely to the longitudinal extension direction and transversely to the adjustment axis.

16. A locking assembly comprising a first rail element (S1) for adjusting the longitudinal position of a vehicle seat (F) and a second rail element (S2) movable at the first rail element (S1), and a locking device (V) according to claim 13, by which the first and second rail elements (S1, S2) can be locked to each other.

17. The locking assembly according to claim 16, wherein: The locking element (1A, 1B) can be adjusted between its locking position and its unlocking position along an adjustment axis perpendicular to the longitudinal extension direction of the first and / or second rail element (S1, S2), and in its locking position can be engaged in at least one locking opening (R1A, R1B, R2A, R2B) on the first or second rail element (S1, S2), the locking opening being arranged in a section (A1.1, A1.2, A2.2, A2.3) of the first or second rail element (S1, S2) extending transversely to the longitudinal extension direction and transversely to the adjustment axis. 18 . A vehicle seat comprising a locking device according to claim 1 .

19. A vehicle seat having a locking device according to claim 13.

20. A vehicle seat having a latch assembly according to claim 14.

21. A vehicle seat having a latch assembly according to claim 16.

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