Seat track system for a vehicle, vehicle comprising same and method for assembling components thereof

Abstract

A seat track system for a vehicle comprises an upper track and a fixed lower track attached to a vehicle floor structure. The upper track is configured for attachment to a vehicle seat, and the upper track is arranged movable relative to the lower track in a vehicle longitudinal direction. The seat track system further comprises an elongated load member attached to the lower track. An upper part of the load member extends into a lower part of the upper track. One or more lower parts of the load member extend through the floor structure. A lower base surface of the lower track comprises one or more first wedge elements, and an upper surface of the floor structure comprises one or more corresponding second wedge elements. The one or more first wedge elements and the corresponding one or more second wedge elements are configured for interacting with each other so as to create a clamping action between the one or more lower parts and the lower base surface of the floor structure.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a seat rail system for a vehicle. The seat rail system includes an upper rail and a fixed lower rail attached to a vehicle floor structure. The upper rail is configured for attachment to a vehicle seat and is arranged to be movable relative to the lower rail in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle. This disclosure also relates to a vehicle including the seat rail system and a method for assembling components of the seat rail system. Background Technology

[0002] Vehicle seats are typically arranged with a seat rail system for a mechanical sliding connection between the vehicle seat and the vehicle floor structure. A conventional seat rail system consists of a pair of interconnected rails capable of linearly sliding relative to each other, with the lower rail fixedly attached to the floor structure and the upper rail secured to the vehicle seat. The seat rail system allows for adjustment of the vehicle seat along the vehicle's longitudinal direction to facilitate its positioning. Traditional seat rail systems often have a complex load path from the floor structure to the vehicle seat, which is disadvantageous when forces are applied to the seat rail system in a vehicle collision. To achieve the desired performance, this complex load path results in a heavy and expensive construction for the seat rail system. This is particularly concerning when the vehicle is equipped with a seat that has an integrated seatbelt system that is only connected to the seat, where all impact forces need to be absorbed by the seat construction. A common problem with seat rail systems is unwanted and disruptive clicking noises from related components.

[0003] Therefore, there is a need for an improved seat track system that can efficiently absorb the load of a vehicle collision to improve occupant safety. This seat track system should meet legal requirements, be lightweight, and have a low-cost design. It should also have improved noise, vibration, and harshness characteristics (NVH performance). Summary of the Invention

[0004] The purpose of this disclosure is to provide a seat rail system for a vehicle, a vehicle including the seat rail system, and a method for assembling (assembling) components of the seat rail system, which avoids the problems mentioned above. This purpose is achieved at least in part by the features of the independent claims. The dependent claims comprise further improvements to the seat rail system and the method for assembling the components of the seat rail system.

[0005] This disclosure relates to a seat track system for a vehicle. The seat track system includes an upper track and a fixed lower track attached to a vehicle floor structure. The upper track is configured for attachment to a vehicle seat and is arranged to be movable relative to the lower track in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle. The seat track system also includes an elongated load member attached to the lower track. An upper portion of the load member extends into a lower portion of the upper track. One or more lower portions of the load member extend through the floor structure. The lower base surface of the lower track includes one or more first wedge elements, and the upper surface of the floor structure includes one or more corresponding second wedge elements. The one or more first wedge elements and the corresponding one or more second wedge elements are configured to interact with each other to form a clamping action between the one or more lower portions and the lower surface of the floor structure.

[0006] The advantage of these features lies in achieving a robust (high-strength) construction that effectively captures and absorbs impact forces during vehicle collisions through the engagement of load-bearing components with the floor structure and upper rails. This construction prevents significant deformation of the rails, which is particularly important when the vehicle is equipped with a seat that has an integrated seatbelt system connected only to the seat, where all impact forces need to be absorbed by the seat construction. The clamping action establishes pretension in the system, reducing unwanted clicking noises. Through this clamping action, the NVH performance of the seat rail system is significantly improved.

[0007] According to one aspect of this disclosure, one or more lower components of the load-bearing member extend through a corresponding opening in the floor structure. The opening has a narrowing configuration. The extension of the lower components through the opening ensures a secure engagement between the load-bearing member and the floor structure in the event of a vehicle collision. Such an opening further simplifies the process of mounting the lower rail to the floor structure. The narrowing configuration of the opening ensures a clamping effect between the one or more lower components and the lower surface of the floor structure.

[0008] According to another aspect of this disclosure, one or more first wedge-shaped elements are arranged on opposite sides of one or more lower components in the lateral direction. This arrangement ensures stable positioning of the lower track relative to the floor structure.

[0009] According to one aspect of this disclosure, one or more first wedge elements extend downward from the lower base surface. One or more corresponding second wedge elements extend upward from the upper surface. Through the different extensions of the wedge elements, the lower rail can be pushed upward a short distance from the floor structure during installation to create a clamping effect.

[0010] According to another aspect of this disclosure, one or more lower components include a laterally extending lower flange. The lower flange is configured to form a clamping action with a lower surface. The lower flange is configured to interact with the lower surface of the floor structure for securely positioning the lower track.

[0011] According to another aspect of this disclosure, the seat track system also includes one or more reinforcing plate structures disposed between one or more of the lower surface and the lower flange. The lower flange is configured to clamp against the lower surface via the one or more reinforcing plate structures. The reinforcing plates form a robust connection between the components of the seat track system.

[0012] According to one aspect of this disclosure, one or more reinforcing plate structures include one or more lower plate sections disposed below one or more of the lower flanges. When installed in a floor structure, the lower plate sections provide simple positioning for the lower track.

[0013] According to another aspect of this disclosure, the seat track system also includes a mounting bracket connected to the lower track and a mounting element connected to the floor structure. The mounting bracket is attached to the mounting element via a fastening element. The mounting bracket and mounting element are configured to position one or more first wedge elements and one or more corresponding second wedge elements into contact with each other to form a clamping action between one or more lower components and a lower surface. When the seat track system is installed, the mounting bracket, mounting element, and fastening element simplify the positioning of the lower track relative to the floor structure. After installation, these components also hold the lower track in place relative to the floor structure.

[0014] According to another aspect of this disclosure, the upper component includes a laterally extending upper flange. The lower portion of the upper track has a bell-shaped cross-sectional configuration forming a cavity. The cavity is configured to surround the upper flange. The upper flange is configured to directly engage with the lower portion in a vehicle collision event to form a load path from the floor structure to the upper track via the load member. The cavity surrounding the upper flange of the load member is arranged for a simple and robust connection between the lower portion and the load member. Under normal operating conditions, the cavity also allows the upper track to be longitudinally displaced relative to the lower track for positioning the vehicle seat, without any interaction between the load member and the lower portion. The load path from the floor structure to the upper track via the load member prevents significant deformation of the track by anchoring the upper track to the floor structure via the load member. The simple and efficient construction of the seat track system with the load member provides a linearly symmetrical load path from the floor structure to the vehicle seat via the upper track, allowing the system to have a compact construction with low height and low weight at low cost. By leveraging the interaction between the floor structure and the upper track via load-bearing components, forces are effectively concentrated in the system during a vehicle collision, resulting in high system stiffness that prevents large deformations.

[0015] According to one aspect of this disclosure, the upper track includes a first side segment and a second side segment connected to each other. A cavity is formed between the first side segment and the second side segment. The first side segment includes a first flange projecting laterally inward, and the second side segment includes a second flange projecting laterally inward. The first and second flanges are configured to engage with the upper flange in a vehicle collision event. The side segments provide a simple construction for the upper track in which the cavity is formed by the connected side segments. The side segments may be composed of welded sheet-like metal portions forming the cavity, the first flange, and the second flange.

[0016] According to another aspect of this disclosure, the floor structure is an integrated structural component of the vehicle's body-in-white structure. This integrated floor structure achieves a robust system construction for effectively absorbing loads in a vehicle collision event.

[0017] This disclosure also relates to a vehicle that includes the aforementioned seat track system.

[0018] This disclosure also relates to a method for assembling components of a vehicle seat track system. The seat track system includes an upper track and a fixed lower track capable of being attached to a vehicle floor structure. The upper track is configured for attachment to a vehicle seat and is arranged to be movable relative to the lower track in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle. The seat track system also includes an elongated load-bearing member attached to the lower track. The elongated load-bearing member includes an upper portion having a laterally extending upper flange and one or more lower portions having a laterally extending lower flange. The lower base surface of the lower track includes one or more first wedge elements, and the upper surface of the floor structure includes one or more corresponding second wedge elements. The method includes the following steps: arranging a lower rail connected to a floor structure at a location where one or more lower components face a corresponding opening in the floor structure, said opening having a narrowing configuration; pushing the lower rail downward toward the floor structure to position one or more lower components through the corresponding opening in the floor structure, wherein a lower flange extends below the lower surface of the floor structure; and sliding the lower rail relative to the floor structure in the vehicle's longitudinal direction to create an interaction between one or more first wedge elements and corresponding one or more second wedge elements, wherein during the interaction between the one or more first wedge elements and corresponding one or more second wedge elements, a clamping action is formed between the one or more lower flanges and the lower surface associated with the narrow section of the opening. The advantage of these features is that a robust construction is achieved through the assembly of the system, which effectively captures and absorbs impact forces occurring in a vehicle collision event through the engagement of the load-bearing components with the floor structure and the upper rail. The clamping action creates pretension of the system, which reduces unwanted clicking noise. NVH performance is significantly improved through the clamping action.

[0019] According to one aspect of this disclosure, the seat track system further includes a mounting bracket connected to a lower track and a mounting element connected to a floor structure. The method further includes the steps of: after pushing the lower track toward the floor structure in a downward direction, connecting the mounting bracket to the mounting element via a fastening element; and, by action from the fastening element, sliding the lower track relative to the floor structure in a vehicle longitudinal direction, wherein the sliding movement of the lower track relative to the floor structure positions one or more first wedge elements and one or more corresponding second wedge elements into contact with each other to form a clamping action between one or more lower flanges and a lower surface. When installing the seat track system, the mounting bracket, mounting element, and fastening element simplify the positioning of the lower track relative to the floor structure. After installation, these components also hold the lower track in place relative to the floor structure.

[0020] According to another aspect of this disclosure, the seat track system also includes one or more reinforcing plate structures disposed between one or more of the lower surface and the lower flange. The method further includes the step of forming a clamping action between the one or more lower flanges and the lower surface via the one or more reinforcing plate structures. In a vehicle collision event, the reinforcing plates establish a robust (high-strength) connection between the components of the seat track system. Attached Figure Description

[0021] The present disclosure will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which...

[0022] Figure 1 A vehicle with a seat track system according to the present disclosure is schematically shown in a side view. The seat track system has an upper track attached to the vehicle seat and a lower track attached to the floor structure.

[0023] Figure 2 A top-view perspective view schematically illustrates the seat track system according to this disclosure.

[0024] Figure 3 An exploded perspective view schematically illustrates the seat track system according to this disclosure.

[0025] Figure 4 The seat track system according to this disclosure is schematically shown in a cross-sectional front view.

[0026] Figures 5a-5c The lower track of the seat track system, according to this disclosure, is schematically shown in a top-view perspective view at different installation positions relative to the floor structure.

[0027] Figure 6 The lower track and floor structure of the seat track system according to this disclosure are schematically shown in a bottom-view perspective view.

[0028] Figure 7 A seat track system with a drive mechanism according to the present disclosure is schematically shown in a top-view perspective view.

[0029] Figure 8 A seat track system with a reinforced plate structure, according to an alternative embodiment of the present disclosure, is schematically illustrated in a front sectional view.

[0030] Figure 9 A seat track system with a reinforced plate structure, according to another alternative embodiment of the present disclosure, is schematically shown in a front sectional view. Detailed Implementation

[0031] Various aspects of this disclosure will now be described in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in order to illustrate and not limit the disclosure, wherein similar reference numerals denote similar elements, and variations of the described aspects are not limited to the embodiments specifically shown, but are other variations that can be applied to the disclosure.

[0032] Figure 1 A vehicle V with a seat track system S is schematically shown. (As shown) Figure 1-4 As shown in Figure 7, the seat track system S includes an upper track 1 and a fixed lower track 2. The lower track 2 is attached to the floor structure 3 of the vehicle V, and the upper track 1 is attached to the vehicle seat 4. Figure 2 As shown by the double arrows, the upper track 1 is arranged so that it can be positioned relative to the lower track 2 along the longitudinal direction D of the vehicle. LO The lower track 2 is moved to facilitate adjustment and positioning of the vehicle seat 4 relative to the floor structure 3. The lower base surface (lower bottom or lower base surface) 2b of the lower track 2 is positioned to connect to the upper surface 3c of the floor structure 3. The seat track system S may be provided with suitable positioning and locking devices for positioning the vehicle seat 4 relative to the lower track 2 and the floor structure 3 via the upper track 1. The floor structure 3 forms part of the seat track system S, which will be described further below. Typically, two parallel seat track systems S are used to hold one vehicle seat 4. Although in Figure 1 In the diagram, the seat track system S is shown as being connected to the front vehicle seat 4, but the seat track system S can also be used for other adjustable vehicle seats.

[0033] Vehicle lateral direction D LA Defined as perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the vehicle, D LO The direction. In this context, the terms "upper (higher)," "lower (lower)," "upward," and "downward" refer to the direction when the seat track system S is in the vehicle V. Figure 1 When installed in the position shown, it is in the direction relative to the seat track system S.

[0034] The floor structure is suitable as an integrated structural component of the body-in-white structure of a vehicle V, such as... Figure 2 As shown, it has D along the longitudinal direction of the vehicle. LO And the vehicle's lateral direction D LO Or basically along the longitudinal direction of the vehicle D LO And the vehicle's lateral direction D LO The extension of the vehicle V. The body-in-white structure of the vehicle V refers to the body structure in which sheet metal components of the body have been welded together, but no moving parts, motors or engines, chassis or chassis assemblies, or interior trim have been added. The lower rail 2 is securely attached by attaching it to the floor structure 3 integrated into the body-in-white structure of the vehicle V. Additional fastening brackets or similar arrangements (not shown) may be used, for example, to attach the lower rail 2 to the floor structure 3, wherein screw fasteners or similar fastening devices may be used to securely and firmly attach the lower rail 2 to the floor structure 3.

[0035] For example, like Figure 3 , 4 As shown in Figures 6 and 7, the seat track system S also includes an elongated load member 5 attached to the lower track 2. The load member 5 is configured to directly engage with the upper track 1 and the floor structure 3 in the event of a vehicle collision, so as to form a load path from the floor structure 3 to the upper track 1 via the load member 5, which will be further described below.

[0036] The load-bearing component 5 includes an upper component 5a and one or more lower components 5b. In the illustrated embodiment, from, for example... Figure 3 As can be seen, the upper component 5a extends along the length of the load component 5, and a plurality of lower components 5b are arranged in a spaced-apart configuration connected to the upper component 5a. Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the upper part 5a of the load member 5 has an upper (higher) T-shaped cross-section structure with a laterally extending upper flange 6a. Figure 3 , 4 As shown in Figure 6, one or more lower components 5b of the load member 5 have a lower (lower) T-shaped cross-section configuration with a laterally extending lower flange 6b. The connecting plate section 5c of the load member 5 connects the upper flange 6a and the lower flange 6b. A T-shaped cross-section configuration refers to a cross-sectional shape having a T-shape, or a shape similar to a T-shape, such as... Figure 4 The double-hook-like structure shown. (Example) Figure 4 As shown, the upper part 5a and the lower part 5b of the load component 5 have cross-sectional structures in their corresponding sections that resemble I-beam structures or I-beam-shaped structures.

[0037] like Figure 6As shown, the lower section 2a of the lower track 2 is arranged to have multiple track openings 17, which are configured to receive multiple lower components 5b. (As shown from...) Figure 8 It is understood that when the load member 5 is installed on the lower rail 2, the lower member 5b is properly positioned to pass through the corresponding rail opening 17, and the lower member 5b can then be bent into a lower T-shaped cross-section. In this way, one or more lower members 5b of the load member 5 extend through the lower section 2a of the lower rail 2. The load member 5 and the lower rail 2 are made of a suitable material with high strength, such as high-strength steel, polymer, composite material, or other suitable materials or combinations thereof. The load member 5 is attached to the lower rail 2 by suitable fasteners (such as welding, glue, rivets, or screws).

[0038] In the illustrated embodiment, the load-bearing component 5 includes two connected material sections 5:1 and 5:2 forming a higher T-section structure and a lower T-section structure, with a connecting plate section therebetween. Figure 4 As shown, material sections 5:1 and 5:2 each have at least partially a U-shaped cross-section or a similar U-shaped cross-section. This structure of two connected material sections simplifies the process of installing or assembling the load component 5 to the lower track 2, since each of the sections can be positioned in the track opening 17 and then attached to each other and to the lower track 2.

[0039] In the assembled state of the seat track system S, such as Figure 4 As shown, the upper part 5a of the load member 5 extends into the lower part 1a of the upper track 1. For example, from... Figure 3 It is understood that the lower portion 1a can be divided into more than one structural component of the upper track 1 for receiving the upper component 5a. In the illustrated embodiment, the upper track 1 is arranged with three sections, which together form the lower portion 1a, and the upper component 5a of the load component 5 extends into all three sections forming the lower portion 1a.

[0040] like Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the upper rail 1 also has an upper fastening portion 18 for attaching the vehicle seat 4 to the upper rail 1. The fastening portion 18 may be arranged as an opening, which is suitably threaded, for receiving a threaded fastening element for attaching the vehicle seat 4 to the upper rail 1. The vehicle seat 4 may be arranged to have a bracket or similar structure for attaching to the upper rail 1 and engaging with the fastening element.

[0041] The lower portion 1a of the upper track 1 appropriately has a bell-shaped cross-sectional structure, or a similar bell-shaped cross-sectional structure, and this lower portion has such a structure forming a cavity 7, as shown below. Figure 4As shown, cavity 7 is configured to surround the upper flange 6a of load member 5.

[0042] The upper track 1 includes a first side section 8a and a second side section 8b. The side sections are properly connected to each other by suitable fasteners. The upper track 1 can, for example, be made of two welded pieces forming the lower bell-shaped portion, and the welded pieces form the lateral sides of the upper track 1. Figure 4 As shown, cavity 7 is formed between the first side section 8a and the second side section 8b.

[0043] The first side section 8a includes a first flange 9a projecting laterally inward, and the second side section 8b includes a second flange 9b projecting laterally inward. The first flange 9a and the second flange 9b form the lower end 11 of the lower portion 1a, and as will be further described below, the first flange 9a and the second flange 9b are configured to engage with the upper flange 6a in a vehicle collision event. Figure 4 As shown, the first flange 9a and the second flange 9b are arranged below the upper flange 6a, and with this configuration, in the assembled state of the seat track system S, the first flange 9a and the second flange 9b extend inward toward the load member 5. The first side section 8a and the second side section 8b together with the first flange 9a and the second flange 9b form a cavity 7, which surrounds the upper flange 6a of the load member 5.

[0044] like Figure 4 As shown, the upper flange 6a includes a first flange section 13a and a second flange section 13b extending laterally on opposite sides (opposite sides) of the connecting plate section 5c. In the assembled state of the seat track system S, the first flange 9a is disposed below the first flange section 13a, and the second flange 9b is disposed below the second flange section 13b. In the illustrated embodiment, the first flange 9a extends inwardly toward the load member 5 from the first side section 8a with an upwardly inclined configuration, and the second flange 9b extends inwardly toward the load member 5 from the second side section 8b with an upwardly inclined configuration. The first flange section 13a extends outwardly toward the first side section 8a from the connecting plate section 5c with a downwardly inclined configuration, and the second flange section 13b extends outwardly toward the second side section 8b from the connecting plate section 5c with a downwardly inclined configuration. The first flange section 13a suitably has an extension that is parallel to or substantially parallel to the extension of the first flange 9a, and the second flange section 13b suitably has an extension that is parallel to or substantially parallel to the extension of the second flange 9b.

[0045] like Figure 3 and Figure 4As shown, the seat track system S also includes a laterally extending support structure 10. The support structure 10 is attached to the upper track 1 and extends laterally from the upper track 1 in opposite directions. The support structures 10 can be arranged in pairs on opposite sides of the upper track. The support structures 10 are configured to movably engage the lower track 2 and to provide a low-friction engagement between the upper track 1 and the lower track 2. The support structure 10 includes a bearing 10a, and the bearing 10a is suitably connected to the upper track 1 via an extension shaft structure 10b or a similar arrangement for laterally positioning the bearing 10a relative to the lower track 2.

[0046] like Figure 4 As shown, the lower rail 2 includes two support surfaces 12 arranged laterally on opposite sides of the load member 5. The bearing 10a and the support surfaces 12 are configured to interact with each other when the upper rail 1 is displaced relative to the lower rail 2. Figure 3 and Figure 4 In the illustrated embodiment, the first track 1 includes two pairs of support structures 10 arranged to interact with the support surface 12. However, any suitable number of support structures 10 can be used. The bearing 10a can be, for example, a roller bearing, and the roller bearing can be provided with wheel elements or similar structures for rolling interaction with the support surface 12 during longitudinal displacement of the upper track 1 relative to the lower track 2. Alternatively, the bearing 10a can be a sliding bearing for sliding interaction with the support surface 12 during longitudinal displacement of the upper track 1 relative to the lower track 2. Other types of bearings can also be used depending on the construction and design of the seat track system S. Figure 4 As shown, the support structure 10 is positioned above the lower end 11 of the lower portion 1a of the upper track 1 to achieve a compact and robust construction of the seat track system S.

[0047] like Figure 4 As shown, one or more lower components 5b of the load-bearing component 5 extend through the floor structure 3 via corresponding openings 3a. (As shown from...) Figure 3 It can be seen that the position of the opening 3a corresponds to the spacing of the lower component 5b along the load component 5. The opening 3a has a narrowing structure, and the opening 3a is along the longitudinal direction D of the vehicle. LO Gradually tapering. A suitable narrowing shape is, for example, like... Figure 3 The illustrated keyhole shape is shown. However, any suitable narrowing shape can be used. In the illustrated embodiment, opening 3a has a narrow section 16a and a wide section 16b. The narrowing configuration allows the lower track 2 to be efficiently mounted to the floor structure 3 via the wide section 16b of opening 3a, and allows for efficient connection between the load member 5 and the floor structure 3 when the lower track 2 is in its final mounting position relative to the floor structure 3. In the final mounting position, the load member 5 is configured to interact with the narrow section of opening 3a.

[0048] The load-bearing component 5 is configured to directly engage with the floor structure 3 and the lower portion 1a of the upper track in the event of a vehicle collision, to form a load path from the floor structure 3 to the upper track 1 via the load-bearing component 5. A vehicle collision event refers to any situation in which the vehicle V is exposed to impact forces, such as when the vehicle V collides with an object or an object impacts the vehicle V. Typical vehicle collision events are when the vehicle V experiences a violent impact or collision (e.g., with another vehicle), or if the vehicle V leaves the road in an off-road or similar event. If the vehicle V collides, the impact forces will act on the vehicle seat 4 and the seat track system S.

[0049] In a frontal collision, or in a collision where the front of vehicle V collides with an object, the force acting on the vehicle seat 4 causes rotational motion, thus driving the thrust F... PUSH Push the front part of the upper track 1 downwards toward the second track 2, and apply a pulling force F. PULL Pull the rear of track 1 upwards in a direction away from the second track 2. In a rear-end collision, or in a collision where the rear of vehicle V hits an object, rotational motion is caused by the force acting on the vehicle seat 4, so the pulling force F... PULL Pull the front of track 1 upwards in a direction away from the second track 2, and use thrust F PUSH Push the rear of the upper track 1 downwards toward the second track 2. Figure 2 The thrust F is schematically shown in the diagram. PUSH and tension F PULL .

[0050] When the tension F PULL When acting on the upper track 1, such as in the aforementioned vehicle collision event, the strength of the seat track system S is critical. Figure 4 The tension F is indicated by an arrow in the middle. PULL Its indication is that a portion of track 1 is pulled upwards in a direction away from the second track 2. When the pulling force F PULL When acting on a portion of the seat track system S, the load member 5 functions to directly engage with both the floor structure 3 and the upper track 1. In this manner, the floor structure 3 is connected to the upper track 1 via the load member 5 to form a load path from the floor structure 3 to the upper track 1 via the load member 5. The load member 5 forms a robust and stable structure for the seat track system S, preventing large and undesirable deformation of the track. With this system configuration, the load member 5 directly engages with both the floor structure 3 and the lower portion 1a in a vehicle collision event. Figure 4As shown, the load path established in a vehicle collision event, from the floor structure 3 to the upper track 1 via the load member 5, is achieved by the connection of the load member 5 along the centerline C of the seat track system S from the floor structure 3 to the upper track, thus forming a shorter load path compared to conventional systems.

[0051] More specifically, the upper flange 6a is configured to directly engage with the lower portion 1a of the upper rail 1 in a vehicle collision event to form a load path from the floor structure 3 to the upper rail 1 via the load member 5. The first flange 9a engages the first flange segment 13a in a vehicle collision event, and the second flange 9b engages the second flange segment 13b in a vehicle collision event to achieve a robust connection between the upper rail 1 and the load member 5. In this way, the first flange 9a and the second flange 9b are configured to engage with the upper flange 6a in a vehicle collision event. Figure 4 As understood, the involved parts are arranged as hook-like elements that interact with each other during a vehicle collision, thereby preventing the upper rail 1 from separating from the lower rail 2 due to the connection between the load member 5 and the lower member 1a. During a vehicle collision, the upper rail 1 is pulled upwards a short distance away from the lower rail 2 due to the minimum clearance between the involved parts. Under normal operating conditions, a small clearance exists between the upper flange 6a and the corresponding first flange 9a and second flange 9b, which allows the upper rail 1 to move along the vehicle's longitudinal direction D. LO It moves relative to the lower track 2 to position the vehicle seat 4 relative to the floor structure 3.

[0052] Similarly, one or more lower components 5b of the load-bearing component 5 are configured to engage with the lower surface 3b of the floor structure 3 in a vehicle collision event. In a vehicle collision event, the lower flange 6b engages the lower surface 3b of the floor structure 3 to achieve a secure connection between the floor structure 3 and the load-bearing component 5. Figure 4 As shown, the lower flange 6b interacts with the floor structure 3, connecting to the narrow section 16a of the opening 3a, thereby preventing the lower track 2 from separating from the floor structure 3. Figure 4 As shown, the lower flange 6b of the lower component 5b is arranged as hook-shaped elements, which interact with the lower surface 3b of the floor structure 3 in a vehicle collision event, thereby preventing the lower track 2 from separating from the floor structure 3 due to the connection between the load component 5 and the floor structure 3.

[0053] The construction of the seat track system S provides a straight and symmetrical load path from the floor structure 3 to the vehicle seat via the upper track 1, thus allowing the seat track system S to have a compact construction with low height and low weight.

[0054] For example, like Figure 2As shown, the seat track system S also includes a mounting bracket 2d connected to the lower track 2 and a mounting element 3e connected to the floor structure 3. The mounting bracket 2d can be arranged as an integral part of the lower track 2 and connected to the lower track 2 by welding or other suitable fastening means. The mounting element 3e can be arranged as an integrated part of the floor structure 3, or as a separately attached part securely connected to the floor structure 3 by welding or other suitable fasteners. The mounting bracket 2d and mounting element 3e are used when the lower track 2 is installed to the floor structure 3, and the mounting bracket 2d and mounting element 3e are used to hold the lower track 2 in place relative to the floor structure 3. In the final installation position, such as... Figure 2 As shown, the mounting bracket 2d is attached to the mounting element 3e via a fastening element 15. The fastening element 15 is adapted to be a threaded screw or similar device that engages a hole in the mounting bracket 2d and a hole in the mounting element 3e, and a nut 15a can be used for engagement between these components (parts). Figure 5a As shown, nut 15a can be attached to mounting element 13e. Fastening element 15 securely connects lower rail 2 to mounting element 3e.

[0055] like Figure 3 , 4 As shown in 5a-5c, the lower base surface 2b of the lower track 2 includes one or more first wedge elements 2c, and the upper surface 3c of the floor structure 3 includes one or more corresponding second wedge elements 3d. In the illustrated embodiment, a plurality of first wedge elements 2c are arranged on the lower track 2, and the first wedge elements 2c are arranged on opposite sides of the lower component 5b in the lateral direction. Figure 6 As shown, the first wedge element 2c extends from the lower base surface 2b in a downwardly inclined direction, and the first wedge element 2c can be, for example, formed as a downwardly curved cut-out portion of the lower base surface 2b. However, the first wedge element 2c can have any suitable structural configuration, such as a structural portion arranged below the lower base surface 2b. The floor structure 3 is provided with a plurality of corresponding second wedge elements 3d arranged on opposite sides of the opening 3a. The corresponding second wedge elements 3d extend from the upper surface 3c of the floor structure 3 in an upwardly inclined direction. The second wedge elements 3d can be integrated into the floor structure 3 or arranged as components attached to the floor structure 3. One or more first wedge elements 2c and one or more corresponding second wedge elements 3d are configured to interact with each other when the lower track is attached to the surface structure 3 to form (i.e., establish or generate) a clamping action between one or more lower components 5b and the lower surface 3b of the floor structure 3.

[0056] In a vehicle collision, the interaction between one or more first wedge elements 2c and corresponding one or more second wedge elements 3d prevents the lower track 2 from being pulled upwards a short distance away from the floor structure 3. The clamping action eliminates any gaps that may occur between the lower flange 6b and the lower surface 3b of the floor structure 3.

[0057] Mounting bracket 2d and mounting element 3e are configured to position one or more first wedge elements 2c and one or more corresponding second wedge elements 3d into contact with each other to form a clamping action between one or more lower components 5b and lower surface 3b. More specifically, a laterally extending lower flange 6b of one or more lower components 5b interacts with the lower surface 3b of floor structure 3, and the lower flange 6b is configured to form a clamping action with lower surface 3b. Fastening element 15 is used when passing through lower rail 2 along the vehicle longitudinal direction D. LO When the lower track 2 is installed onto the floor structure 3 by displacement, the force required to position one or more first wedge elements 2c and one or more corresponding second wedge elements 3d into contact with each other is formed.

[0058] In order to assemble the seat track system S Figure 2 In the installation location shown, such as Figures 5a-5c As shown, the second (lower) track 2, having the load-bearing component 5, can be first connected to the floor structure 3. The lower track 2 is arranged in connection with the floor structure 3 in a position corresponding to the opening 3a of one or more lower components 5b facing the floor structure 3. The wide section 16b of the opening 3a in the floor structure 3 has dimensions suitable for receiving the corresponding lower component 5b, and as shown... Figure 5a As indicated by the arrow, when the lower rail 2 is installed on the floor structure 3 together with the load member 5, the lower member 5b with the lower flange 6b is inserted into the wide section 16b. Therefore, the lower rail 2 is pushed downward toward the floor structure 3 to position one or more lower members 5b through the corresponding opening 3a of the floor structure 3. The lower member 5b of the load member 5 enters the wide section 16b during the downward movement of the lower rail 2, and when inserted into the opening 3a, the lower member 5b extends through the floor structure 3, and the lower flange 6b is positioned below the floor structure 3, extending in this manner below the lower surface 3b of the floor structure 3.

[0059] After that, as Figure 5b As indicated by the middle arrow, the lower track 2 is pushed towards the narrow section 16a when it is inserted into the wide section 16b of the opening 3a. This is in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle, D. LO When the lower track 2 slides relative to the floor structure 3, an interaction is formed between one or more first wedge elements 2c and one or more corresponding second wedge elements 3d, such as... Figure 5bAs shown, the inclined surface of the first wedge element 2c interacts with the inclined surface of the second wedge element 3d. Through the interaction between one or more first wedge elements 2c and corresponding one or more second wedge elements 3d, a clamping effect is formed between the lower flange 6b and the lower surface 3b. The interaction between the first wedge element 2c and the second wedge element 3d lifts the lower track 2 upwards a short distance. Figure 4 and 5c The location shown. For example, from... Figure 4 It can be seen that when the lower track 2 is lifted a short distance, a clamping action is formed between the lower flange 6b and the lower surface 3b of the floor structure 3, connecting to the narrow section 16a of the opening 3a. The first wedge element 2c and the corresponding second wedge element 3d hold the lower track 2 in place relative to the floor structure 3. The wedge elements can be arranged to have a spring-like action to achieve a stronger clamping action when appropriate. By moving the lower track 2 along the longitudinal direction D of the vehicle... LO Pushing toward narrow section 16a, such as Figure 5c As shown, the lower flange 6b will be positioned below the floor structure 3, entering the final installation position. (As shown from...) Figure 4 It is understood that when the lower flange 6b is positioned below the floor structure 3 within the narrow section 16a, the engagement between the lower flange 6b and the lower surface 3b of the floor structure 3 prevents the lower track 2 from shifting in the upward direction. These wedge-shaped elements are adapted to have a robust construction for retaining the weight of the vehicle seat 4 and the occupants.

[0060] During the installation of the lower rail 2 onto the floor structure 3, fastening element 15 can be used to form the lower rail 2 along the longitudinal direction D of the vehicle. LO The push is directed toward the narrow section 16a. When the lower rail 2 is pushed downward toward the floor structure 3, the mounting bracket 2d is connected to the mounting element 3e via the fastening element 15. The action from the fastening element 15 forms the lower rail 2 relative to the floor structure 3 in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle. LO The sliding movement. The fastening element 15 can be first attached to the mounting bracket 2d and then inserted into the nut 15a of the mounting element 3e. When the fastening element 15 is screwed into the nut 15a, sliding movement is formed between the lower track 2 and the floor structure 3. The sliding movement of the lower track 2 relative to the floor structure 3 positions one or more first wedge elements 2c and one or more corresponding second wedge elements 3d to contact each other and be on top of each other, for forming a clamping action between one or more lower flanges 6b and the lower surface 3b of the floor structure 3, thereby entering... Figure 4 and 5c The final installation location.

[0061] As described above, the second track 2 can also be attached to the floor structure 3 via an additional fastening bracket (not shown). When the lower track 2 is attached to the floor structure 3, the upper track 1 and the vehicle seat 4 can be mounted on the lower track 2.

[0062] The seat track system S may also include one or more reinforcing plate structures 14, such as Figure 8 As shown in the alternative embodiments, the one or more reinforcing plate structures 14 are arranged below the floor structure 3 between one or more of the lower surface 3b and the lower flange 6b. As can be seen from the figures, in this embodiment, the lower flange 6b is configured to clamp the lower surface 3b via the one or more reinforcing plate structures 14. The one or more reinforcing plate structures 14 may be arranged as structural material elements to increase the strength of the seat track system S, wherein the one or more reinforcing plate structures 14 are attached to the lower surface 3b of the floor structure 3 by suitable attachment means (e.g., welding or gluing). The one or more reinforcing plate structures 14 are made of any suitable material, such as steel, aluminum, composite materials, or combinations of different materials. The one or more reinforcing plate structures 14 may be arranged as a reinforcing element forming a single reinforcing plate structure 14 that extends along the entire length or a portion of the length of the lower track 2 below the floor structure 3, wherein the reinforcing plate structure 14 includes an opening corresponding to an opening 3a in the floor structure 3. Alternatively, one or more reinforcing plate structures 14 may be arranged as separate reinforcing elements associated with one or more openings 3a in the floor structure 3, wherein each reinforcing plate structure 14 is provided with an opening corresponding to an opening 3a in the floor structure 3.

[0063] In yet another alternative embodiment, such as Figure 9 As shown, one or more reinforcing plate structures 14 include one or more lower plate segments 14a disposed below one or more of the lower flanges 6b. The one or more reinforcing plate structures 14 may have the above-described configuration, wherein the one or more lower plate segments 14a are attached to the one or more reinforcing plate structures 14. The one or more lower plate segments 14a may form an integral part of the one or more reinforcing plate structures 14, such as a folded material piece connected to an opening in the one or more reinforcing plate structures 14. Alternatively, the lower plate segments 14a may be arranged as separate material pieces attached to one or more of the one or more reinforcing plate structures 14.

[0064] like Figure 7As shown, the seat track system S may also include a drive mechanism 19 for positioning the upper track 1 relative to the lower track 2. The drive mechanism may include a motor 19a and is configured as a worm gear drive mechanism. The worm gear drive mechanism may include an elongated threaded rod 19b connected to the lower track 2, which interacts with a worm wheel 19c arranged on the upper track 1. It should be understood that the drive mechanism 19 may have other suitable configurations, such as a linear actuator or a ball screw mechanism.

[0065] It should be understood that the above description is exemplary in nature only and is not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure or its application or use. Although specific examples have been described in the specification and illustrated in the drawings, those skilled in the art will understand that various modifications can be made thereto, and equivalents can be substituted for elements therein without departing from the scope of this disclosure as defined in the claims. Furthermore, modifications can be made to adapt particular situations or materials to the teachings of this disclosure without departing from its essential scope. Therefore, this disclosure is not intended to be limited to the specific examples disclosed as the best mode of implementation currently conceived for carrying out the teachings of this disclosure, which are depicted in the drawings and described in the specification. Rather, the scope of this disclosure will include any embodiments falling within the scope of the foregoing description and the appended claims. Reference numerals used in the claims should not be considered as limiting the scope of the subject matter protected by the claims; their sole purpose is to facilitate the understanding of the claims.

[0066] Figure Labels

[0067] 1. On track

[0068] 1a lower part

[0069] 2 Lower Track

[0070] 2a lower section

[0071] 2b lower base plane

[0072] 2c First wedge element

[0073] 2D mounting bracket

[0074] 3 Floor Structure

[0075] 3a Opening

[0076] 3b Lower surface

[0077] 3C top surface

[0078] 3D Second Wedge Element

[0079] 3e Mounting Components

[0080] 4 vehicle seats

[0081] 5 load components

[0082] 5a Upper component

[0083] 5b Lower component

[0084] 5c Connecting plate section

[0085] 6a Upper flange

[0086] 6b Lower flange

[0087] 7 chambers

[0088] 8a First Side Section

[0089] 8b Second Side Section

[0090] 9a First flange

[0091] 9b Second flange

[0092] 10 Supporting Structure

[0093] 10a bearing

[0094] 10b shaft structure

[0095] 11 The lower end

[0096] 12 Supporting surfaces

[0097] 13a First flange section

[0098] 13b Second Flange Section

[0099] 14. Reinforced plate structure

[0100] 14a Lower Plate Section

[0101] 15 Fastening components

[0102] 15a Nut

[0103] 16a narrow section

[0104] 16b wide section

[0105] 17 Opening

[0106] 18 Fastening parts

[0107] 19 Drive mechanism

[0108] 19a motor

[0109] 19b threaded rod

[0110] 19c worm gear

[0111] D LAlateral direction of the vehicle

[0112] D LO longitudinal direction of the vehicle

[0113] S Seat Track System

[0114] V. Vehicle.

Claims

1. A seat track system (S) for a vehicle (V), wherein, The seat track system (S) includes an upper track (1) and a fixed lower track (2) attached to the floor structure (3) of the vehicle (V), wherein the upper track (1) is configured for attachment to the vehicle seat (4), and wherein the upper track (1) is arranged to be oriented relative to the lower track (2) along the longitudinal direction (D) of the vehicle. LO The seat track system (S) further includes an elongated load member (5) attached to the lower track (2), wherein the upper part (5a) of the load member (5) extends into the lower part (1a) of the upper track (1). The feature is that one or more lower components (5b) of the load member (5) extend through the floor structure (3), wherein the lower base surface (2b) of the lower track (2) includes one or more first wedge elements (2c), and wherein the upper surface (3c) of the floor structure (3) includes one or more corresponding second wedge elements (3d), wherein the one or more first wedge elements (2c) and the corresponding one or more second wedge elements (3d) are configured to interact with each other to form a clamping action between the one or more lower components (5b) and the lower surface (3b) of the floor structure (3).

2. The seat track system (S) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The one or more lower components (5b) of the load member (5) extend through the corresponding opening (3a) of the floor structure (3), wherein the opening (3a) has a narrowing configuration.

3. The seat track system (S) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The one or more first wedge-shaped elements (2c) are arranged on the lateral opposite sides of the one or more lower parts (5b).

4. The seat track system (S) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The one or more first wedge elements (2c) extend downward from the lower base surface (2b), and the corresponding one or more second wedge elements (3d) extend upward from the upper surface (3c).

5. The seat track system (S) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The one or more lower components (5b) include a laterally extending lower flange (6b), wherein the lower flange (6b) is configured to clamp with the lower surface (3b).

6. The seat track system (S) according to claim 5, characterized in that, The seat track system (S) further includes one or more reinforcing plate structures (14) disposed between one or more of the lower surface (3b) and the lower flange (6b), wherein the lower flange (6b) is configured to clamp with the lower surface (3b) via the one or more reinforcing plate structures (14).

7. The seat track system (S) according to claim 6, characterized in that, The one or more reinforcing plate structures (14) include one or more lower plate sections (14a) arranged below one or more of the lower flange (6b).

8. The seat track system (S) according to any one of claims 1-7, characterized in that, The seat track system (S) further includes a mounting bracket (2d) connected to the lower track (2) and a mounting element (3e) connected to the floor structure (3), wherein the mounting bracket (2d) is attached to the mounting element (3e) via a fastening element (15), wherein the mounting bracket (2d) and the mounting element (3e) are configured to position the one or more first wedge elements (2c) and the corresponding one or more second wedge elements (3d) into contact with each other to form a clamping action between the one or more lower parts (5b) and the lower surface (3b).

9. The seat track system (S) according to any one of claims 1-7, characterized in that, The upper component (5a) includes a laterally extending upper flange (6a), wherein the lower portion (1a) of the upper track (1) has a bell-shaped cross-sectional configuration forming a cavity (7), wherein the cavity (7) is configured to surround the upper flange (6a), wherein the upper flange (6a) is configured to directly engage with the lower portion (1a) in a vehicle collision event to form a load path from the floor structure (3) via the load component (5) to the upper track (1).

10. The seat track system (S) according to claim 9, characterized in that, The upper track (1) includes a first side section (8a) and a second side section (8b) that are interconnected with each other, wherein the cavity (7) is formed between the first side section (8a) and the second side section (8b), wherein the first side section (8a) includes a first flange (9a) that projects laterally inward, and the second side section (8b) includes a second flange (9b) that projects laterally inward, wherein the first flange (9a) and the second flange (9b) are configured to engage with the upper flange (6a) in the event of a vehicle collision.

11. The seat track system (S) according to any one of claims 1-7, characterized in that, The floor structure (3) is an integrated structural component of the body-in-white structure of the vehicle (V).

12. A vehicle (V) comprising a seat track system (S) according to any one of claims 1-11.

13. A method for assembling components of a seat track system (S) for a vehicle (V), wherein, The seat track system (S) includes an upper track (1) and a fixed lower track (2) that can be attached to the floor structure (3) of the vehicle (V), wherein the upper track (1) is configured for attachment to the vehicle seat (4), and wherein the upper track (1) is arranged to be able to be aligned with the lower track (2) in the longitudinal direction (D) of the vehicle. LO The method includes the following steps: The seat track system (S) further includes an elongated load member (5) attached to the lower track (2), wherein the elongated load member (5) includes an upper member (5a) having a laterally extending upper flange (6a) and one or more lower members (5b) having a laterally extending lower flange (6b), wherein the lower base surface (2b) of the lower track (2) includes one or more first wedge elements (2c), and the upper surface (3c) of the floor structure (3) includes one or more corresponding second wedge elements (3d). The lower track (2) is arranged in connection with the floor structure (3) at the position of the one or more lower components (5b) facing the corresponding opening (3a) of the floor structure (3), wherein the opening (3a) has a narrowing structure; The lower track (2) is pushed toward the floor structure (3) in a downward direction to position the one or more lower components (5b) through the corresponding opening (3a) of the floor structure (3), wherein the lower flange (6b) extends below the lower surface (3b) of the floor structure (3); Relative to the floor structure (3) along the longitudinal direction of the vehicle (D) LO The lower track (2) is slid to form an interaction between the one or more first wedge elements (2c) and the corresponding one or more second wedge elements (3d), wherein, when the interaction occurs between the one or more first wedge elements (2c) and the corresponding one or more second wedge elements (3d), a clamping action is formed between the one or more lower flanges (6b) and the lower surface (3b) associated with the narrow section (16a) of the opening (3a).

14. The method according to claim 13, characterized in that, The seat track system (S) further includes a mounting bracket (2d) connected to the lower track (2) and a mounting element (3e) connected to the floor structure (3), wherein the method further includes the following steps: After the lower track (2) is pushed downward toward the floor structure (3), the mounting bracket (2d) is connected to the mounting element (3e) using the fastening element (15); and By the action of the fastening element (15), the lower rail (2) is positioned relative to the floor structure (3) along the longitudinal direction (D) of the vehicle. LO The sliding motion of the lower track (2) relative to the floor structure (3) positions the one or more first wedge elements (2c) and the corresponding one or more second wedge elements (3d) into contact with each other to form a clamping action between the one or more lower flanges (6b) and the lower surface (3b).

15. The method according to claim 13 or 14, characterized in that, The seat track system (S) further includes one or more reinforcing plate structures (14) disposed between one or more of the lower surface (3b) and the lower flange (6b), wherein the method further includes the following steps: A clamping effect is formed between the one or more lower flanges (6b) and the lower surface (3b) via the one or more reinforcing plate structures (14).

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