Seat assembly for a motor vehicle

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a seat assembly for a motor vehicle, comprising: a seat cushion; a seat back; and a linkage mechanism configured to move the seat cushion and the seat back to enable the seat assembly to move between at least two positions. The linkage mechanism includes a first linkage mechanism for the seat back and a second linkage mechanism for the seat cushion, the first linkage mechanism and the second linkage mechanism being configured to be independently driven relative to each other. The first linkage mechanism comprises a restraining end and a movable end, and the first linkage mechanism is configured to be capable of pivoting around a first pivoting part arranged at the restraining end of the first linkage mechanism. The bottom end, close to the seat cushion, of the seat backrest is pivotally connected with the movable end of the first linkage mechanism, so that the seat backrest can pivot relative to the first linkage mechanism around a second pivot part arranged at the movable end of the first linkage mechanism. The seat assembly has more flexible adjusting performance, so that the comfort of the seat assembly is improved, and the application scene of the seat assembly is expanded.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to the technical field of vehicle seats. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to a seat assembly for a motor vehicle. Background Art

[0002] Seat assemblies for motor vehicles generally include a seat cushion and a seat back. It is known in the art to design a seat assembly for a motor vehicle to be movable between two or more positions to provide a more comfortable ride experience to the occupant. For example, some seat assemblies are designed to be movable between a folded position, a design position, and an easy entry (also known as "EZE") position, in which the seat back is pivoted toward the seat cushion and overlaps the seat cushion to increase, for example, cargo space in the motor vehicle, and in the easy entry position, at least the seat back of the seat assembly can be tilted forward to increase the ingress and egress space behind the seat assembly. Some seat assemblies are also designed to include a lie-flat position, in which the seat back is pivoted away from the seat cushion to be substantially horizontal, thereby forming a "big bed mode" or "big bed state" so that the occupant can lie on the seat assembly. Other seat assemblies are also designed to include a "zero gravity" position, in which the occupant can sit on the seat assembly in a substantially zero pressure posture, so that it can feel more comfortable.

[0003] However, although the seat back of the seat assembly of the prior art can have a certain angle adjustment capability to realize the functions of the seat assembly such as folding, lying flat, easy entry, etc., the bottom end of the seat back of the prior art is usually installed on the seat cushion (or the frame of the seat cushion), or the seat back of the prior art is usually driven by only a single motor to realize its angle adjustment. Such a structure has some defects. For example, since the bottom end of the seat back is installed on the seat cushion, the rotation center of the seat back cannot be adjusted independently of the seat cushion. This makes it difficult for the seat assembly to achieve the most comfortable riding experience when it is in certain positions. For example, when the seat assembly is in a lying flat state, the seat cushion and / or the seat back cannot be adjusted independently relative to each other, so that there may be a height difference between the seat cushion and the seat back in a horizontal position, thereby affecting the lying experience of the occupant. Alternatively, when the seat assembly is in the zero-gravity position, the bottom of the seat back may press against the occupant's waist, while the top of the seat back may not fit the occupant's shoulders, resulting in problems such as the occupant's waist being pressed against and shoulders being unsupported, thereby affecting the occupant's riding experience.

[0004] Therefore, there is a need to improve the existing seat assembly. Summary of the invention

[0005] According to some embodiments of the present disclosure, a seat assembly for a motor vehicle is provided, comprising: a seat cushion; a seat back; and a linkage mechanism, wherein the linkage mechanism is configured to move the seat cushion and the seat back so that the seat assembly can move between at least two positions; wherein the linkage mechanism comprises a first linkage mechanism for the seat back and a second linkage mechanism for the seat cushion, the first linkage mechanism and the second linkage mechanism being configured to be driven independently relative to each other; wherein the first linkage mechanism comprises at least one restraining end and at least one movable end, the first linkage mechanism being configured to be able to pivot around a first pivot portion at a corresponding restraining end in the at least one restraining end of the first linkage mechanism; and wherein a bottom end of the seat back near the seat cushion is pivotally connected to a corresponding movable end in the at least one movable end of the first linkage mechanism, so that the seat back can pivot relative to the first linkage mechanism around a second pivot portion at the corresponding movable end of the first linkage mechanism.

[0006] In the seat assembly according to the present disclosure, the bottom end of the seat back and the first linkage mechanism for the seat back are not mounted on the seat cushion, and the first linkage mechanism for the seat back and the second linkage mechanism for the seat cushion can be driven independently relative to each other. Such a structure realizes independent control of the movement of both the seat back and the seat cushion, and this independent control, combined with the structure that the first linkage mechanism can pivot around the first pivot part and the seat back can pivot around the second pivot part relative to the first linkage mechanism, enables the seat assembly according to the present disclosure to have more flexible adjustment performance. This more flexible adjustment performance not only improves the comfort of the seat assembly according to the present disclosure, but also expands the use scenarios of the seat assembly according to the present disclosure.

[0007] Non-limiting illustrative examples of embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described in the following numbered clauses.

[0008] Clause 1. A seat assembly for a motor vehicle, comprising:

[0009] Seat cushions;

[0010] seat backs; and

[0011] a linkage mechanism configured to move the seat cushion and the seat back to enable the seat assembly to move between at least two positions;

[0012] wherein the linkage mechanism comprises a first linkage mechanism for the seat back and a second linkage mechanism for the seat cushion, the first linkage mechanism and the second linkage mechanism being configured to be driven independently relative to each other;

[0013] wherein the first linkage mechanism comprises at least one restraining end and at least one movable end, and the first linkage mechanism is configured to be pivotable about a first pivoting portion disposed at a corresponding restraining end of the at least one restraining end of the first linkage mechanism; and

[0014] In which, the bottom end of the seat back near the seat cushion is pivotally connected to a corresponding movable end of at least one movable end of the first linkage mechanism, so that the seat back can pivot relative to the first linkage mechanism around a second pivot portion arranged at the corresponding movable end of the first linkage mechanism.

[0015] Clause 2. The seat assembly according to clause 1, wherein:

[0016] The restraining end of the first linkage mechanism is pivotally mounted on a vehicle floor, or is pivotally mounted on a slide rail that can slide relative to the vehicle floor to move the seat assembly, or is pivotally mounted on a rotating component that can rotate relative to the vehicle floor to rotate the seat assembly around a vertical direction.

[0017] Clause 3. A seat assembly according to clause 1 or clause 2, wherein:

[0018] The first linkage mechanism is configured to pivot about the first pivot portion under the drive of a first backrest driving device, and the seat back is configured to pivot about the second pivot portion under the drive of a second backrest driving device.

[0019] Clause 4. The seat assembly according to clause 3, wherein:

[0020] When the first and second seat back driving devices are not operated, the pivoting of the first linkage mechanism about the first pivoting portion and the pivoting of the seat back about the second pivoting portion are locked.

[0021] Clause 5. A seat assembly according to any one of clauses 1 to 4, wherein:

[0022] The second linkage mechanism includes at least one restraining end and at least one movable end, the at least one restraining end of the second linkage mechanism is pivotally mounted on the vehicle floor, or pivotally mounted on a slide rail, or pivotally mounted on a rotating component, and a corresponding movable end of the at least one movable end of the second linkage mechanism is pivotally connected to the seat cushion.

[0023] Clause 6. The seat assembly according to clause 5, wherein:

[0024] The second linkage mechanism is configured to be capable of pivoting around a pivot portion provided at a corresponding restraining end of the at least one restraining end of the second linkage mechanism under the drive of at least one seat cushion driving device.

[0025] Clause 7. The seat assembly according to clause 6, wherein:

[0026] When a corresponding seat cushion driving device of the at least one seat cushion driving device is not in operation, the pivoting of the second linkage mechanism around the pivoting portion at the corresponding restraining end thereof is locked.

[0027] Clause 8. A seat assembly according to any one of clauses 1 to 7, wherein:

[0028] The first linkage mechanism is constructed as a single-link linkage mechanism on each of the left and right sides of the seat assembly, and the single-link linkage mechanism only includes a single linkage member, and the linkage member includes a restraining end and a movable end, the restraining end of the linkage member is pivotally mounted on the vehicle floor, or is pivotally mounted on a slide rail that can slide relative to the vehicle floor to move the seat assembly, or is pivotally mounted on a rotating component that can rotate relative to the vehicle floor to rotate the seat assembly around a vertical direction, and the bottom end of the seat back near the seat cushion is pivotally connected to the movable end of the linkage member of the first linkage mechanism.

[0029] Clause 9. The seat assembly according to clause 8, wherein:

[0030] The linkage member of the first linkage mechanism includes a first component and a second component, and the first component and the second component are fixed together to form the linkage member.

[0031] Clause 10. The seat assembly according to clause 8, wherein:

[0032] The seat assembly includes a first backrest drive device and a second backrest drive device, wherein the first backrest drive device drives the linkage member of the single-link linkage mechanism to pivot around the first pivot portion, and the second backrest drive device drives the seat back to pivot around the second pivot portion relative to the linkage member of the single-link linkage mechanism.

[0033] Clause 11. A seat assembly according to any one of clauses 1 to 7, wherein:

[0034] The first linkage mechanism is configured as a four-bar linkage mechanism on each of the left and right sides of the seat assembly, the four-bar linkage mechanism comprising a first linkage member, a second linkage member and a third linkage member, wherein the first linkage member comprises a restraining end and a movable end, the second linkage member comprises a restraining end and a movable end, the third linkage member comprises a first foot, a second foot and a third foot,

[0035] Wherein, the restraining end of the first linkage and the restraining end of the second linkage are pivotally mounted on the vehicle floor, or pivotally mounted on a slide rail that can slide relative to the vehicle floor to move the seat assembly, or pivotally mounted on a rotating component that can rotate relative to the vehicle floor to rotate the seat assembly around a vertical direction, the movable end of the first linkage and the movable end of the second linkage are pivotally connected to the first foot and the second foot of the third linkage respectively, and

[0036] Wherein, the bottom end of the seat back close to the seat cushion is pivotally connected to the third foot of the third linkage member.

[0037] Clause 12. The seat assembly according to clause 11, wherein:

[0038] The seat assembly includes a first backrest driving device and a second backrest driving device, the first backrest driving device drives at least one of the first linkage and the second linkage to pivot the first linkage and the second linkage around the first pivot portion at their respective restraining ends, and the second backrest driving device drives the seat back to pivot around the second pivot portion at the movable end of the third linkage.

[0039] Clause 13. A seat assembly according to any one of clauses 8 to 12, wherein:

[0040] The second linkage mechanism includes a first linkage member and a second linkage member, wherein the first linkage member of the second linkage mechanism is configured as a slide plate, the slide plate includes a slide groove extending along its length direction and one end of the slide plate is fixed to the vehicle floor, the slide rail, or the rotating component,

[0041] The second linkage member of the second linkage mechanism comprises a restraining end and a movable end, the restraining end of the second linkage member of the second linkage mechanism is pivotally mounted on the vehicle floor, on the slide rail, or on the rotating component, and

[0042] Among them, one end of the seat cushion close to the seat back is slidably installed in the slide groove of the slide groove plate, and the other end away from the seat back is pivotally connected to the movable end of the second linkage member of the second linkage mechanism.

[0043] Clause 14. The seat assembly according to clause 13, wherein:

[0044] The second linkage member of the second linkage mechanism is configured to pivot around a pivot portion arranged at a constraint end of the second linkage member of the second linkage mechanism under the drive of a seat cushion driving device, and when the second linkage member pivots, an end of the seat cushion close to the seat back slides in the slide groove of the slide groove plate.

[0045] Clause 15. A seat assembly according to clause 13 or clause 14, wherein:

[0046] The seat assembly is configured to be movable between a design position, a folded position, a lie-flat position, and an easy entry position.

[0047] In the design position, the seat back of the seat assembly is at a predetermined angle relative to the seat cushion for supporting an occupant;

[0048] In the folded position, the seat back of the seat assembly is substantially overlapped with the seat cushion to increase the space of the motor vehicle;

[0049] In the lie-flat position, the seat back of the seat assembly is substantially flush with the seat cushion; and

[0050] In the easy entry position, the seat back of the seat assembly is pivoted toward the seat cushion by a predetermined angle relative to the design position and / or the seat cushion is moved forward by a predetermined distance relative to the design position to increase the space behind the seat assembly to facilitate entry and exit of the occupants.

[0051] Clause 16. A seat assembly according to any one of clauses 8 to 12, wherein:

[0052] The second linkage mechanism includes a first linkage member, a second linkage member and a third linkage member, the first linkage member of the second linkage mechanism includes a restraining end and a movable end, the second linkage member of the second linkage mechanism includes a first movable end and a second movable end, and the third linkage member of the second linkage mechanism includes a restraining end and a movable end.

[0053] In which, the constraint end of the first linkage member of the second linkage mechanism and the constraint end of the third linkage member of the second linkage mechanism are respectively pivotally mounted on the vehicle floor, the slide rail, or the rotating component, one end of the seat cushion close to the seat back is pivotally connected to the movable end of the first linkage member of the second linkage mechanism, and the other end away from the seat back is pivotally connected to the first movable end of the second linkage member of the second linkage mechanism, and the second movable end of the second linkage member of the second linkage mechanism is pivotally connected to the movable end of the third linkage member of the second linkage mechanism.

[0054] Clause 17. The seat assembly according to clause 16, wherein:

[0055] The seat assembly is configured to be movable among a design position, a high-profile position, a zero-gravity position, a folded position, a lie-flat position, and an easy-entry position.

[0056] In the design position, the seat back of the seat assembly is at a predetermined angle relative to the seat cushion for supporting an occupant;

[0057] In the high-profile position, the seat cushion of the seat assembly is raised or lowered by a predetermined height in the height direction compared to the design position;

[0058] In the zero-gravity position, the seat assembly is adjusted to a designed zero-pressure state;

[0059] In the folded position, the seat back of the seat assembly is substantially overlapped with the seat cushion to increase the space of the motor vehicle;

[0060] In the lie-flat position, the seat back of the seat assembly is substantially flush with the seat cushion; and

[0061] In the easy entry position, the seat back of the seat assembly is pivoted toward the seat cushion by a predetermined angle relative to the design position and / or the seat cushion is moved forward by a predetermined distance relative to the design position to increase the space behind the seat assembly to facilitate entry and exit of the occupants.

[0062] Clause 18. The seat assembly according to clause 17, wherein:

[0063] One of the second linkage and the third linkage of the second linkage mechanism is configured as a zero-gravity linkage for achieving the zero-gravity position of the seat assembly.

[0064] Clause 19. The seat assembly according to clause 18, wherein:

[0065] The seat assembly includes a first cushion driving device and a second cushion driving device, the first cushion driving device is used to drive the zero gravity linkage to achieve the zero gravity position, and the second cushion driving device is used to drive the first linkage of the second linkage mechanism to achieve other positions of the seat assembly except the zero gravity position.

[0066] Clause 20. The seat assembly according to clause 19, wherein:

[0067] During the process of moving the seat assembly from the design position to the zero gravity position, the second seat cushion driving device locks the first linkage member of the second linkage mechanism to prevent it from moving; and during the process of moving the seat assembly from the design position to a position other than the zero gravity position, the first seat cushion driving device locks the zero gravity linkage member of the second linkage mechanism to prevent it from moving.

[0068] Clause 21. A seat assembly according to any one of clauses 8 to 12, wherein:

[0069] The second linkage mechanism includes a first linkage member and a second linkage member, the first linkage member of the second linkage mechanism includes a restraining end and a movable end, the second linkage member of the second linkage mechanism includes a restraining end and a movable end,

[0070] In which, the constraint end of the first linkage member of the second linkage mechanism and the constraint end of the second linkage member of the second linkage mechanism are respectively pivotally mounted on the vehicle floor, the slide rail, or the rotating component, and one end of the seat cushion close to the seat back is pivotally connected to the movable end of the first linkage member of the second linkage mechanism, and the other end away from the seat back is pivotally connected to the movable end of the second linkage member of the second linkage mechanism.

[0071] Clause 22. A seat assembly according to clause 21, wherein:

[0072] The seat assembly is configured to be movable among a design position, a high-profile position, a folded position, a lie-flat position, and an easy-entry position.

[0073] In the design position, the seat back of the seat assembly is at a predetermined angle relative to the seat cushion for supporting an occupant;

[0074] In the high-profile position, the seat cushion of the seat assembly is raised or lowered by a predetermined height in the height direction compared to the design position;

[0075] In the folded position, the seat back of the seat assembly is substantially overlapped with the seat cushion to increase the space of the motor vehicle;

[0076] In the lie-flat position, the seat back of the seat assembly is substantially flush with the seat cushion; and

[0077] In the easy entry position, the seat back of the seat assembly is pivoted toward the seat cushion by a predetermined angle relative to the design position and / or the seat cushion is moved forward by a predetermined distance relative to the design position to increase the space behind the seat assembly to facilitate entry and exit of the occupants.

[0078] Clause 23. A seat assembly according to clause 22, wherein:

[0079] The first linkage member of the second linkage mechanism is configured to pivot around a pivot portion provided at a restraining end of the first linkage member of the second linkage mechanism under the drive of the seat cushion driving device.

[0080] Clause 24. A seat assembly according to any one of clauses 8 to 12, wherein:

[0081] The second linkage mechanism includes a first linkage member and a second linkage member, the first linkage member of the second linkage mechanism includes a restraining end and a movable end, the second linkage member of the second linkage mechanism includes a first movable end and a second movable end,

[0082] In which, the restraining end of the first linkage member of the second linkage mechanism and one end of the seat cushion close to the seat back are respectively pivotally mounted on the vehicle floor, the slide rail, or the rotating component, the other end of the seat cushion away from the seat back is pivotally connected to the first movable end of the second linkage member of the second linkage mechanism, and the second movable end of the second linkage member of the second linkage mechanism is pivotally connected to the movable end of the first linkage member of the second linkage mechanism.

[0083] Clause 25. The seat assembly according to clause 24, wherein:

[0084] The seat assembly is configured to be movable between a design position and a zero gravity position,

[0085] In the design position, the seat back of the seat assembly is at a predetermined angle relative to the seat cushion for supporting an occupant; and

[0086] In the zero-gravity position, the seat assembly is adjusted to a designed zero-pressure state.

[0087] Clause 26. The seat assembly according to clause 25, wherein:

[0088] The first linkage of the second linkage mechanism is configured as a zero-gravity linkage for achieving the zero-gravity position of the seat assembly.

[0089] It should be noted that various aspects of the present disclosure described for one embodiment or clause may be included in other different embodiments or clauses, although no specific description is given for the other different embodiments or clauses. In other words, all embodiments or clauses and / or features of any embodiments or clauses may be combined in any manner and / or combination, as long as they are not mutually contradictory. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0090] Aspects of the present disclosure will be better understood after reading the following detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0091] Figure 1 is a schematic side view of a seat assembly for a motor vehicle according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0092] Figure 2a is a schematic perspective view of a seat assembly for a motor vehicle according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein the seat is in its design position and an outer covering of the seat assembly is removed to reveal an inner frame;

[0093] Figure 2b yes Figure 2a A schematic diagram of a linkage mechanism of a seat assembly shown, wherein the linkage mechanism is in a design position;

[0094] Figure 3a and Figure 3b They are schematic diagrams of a seat assembly and a linkage mechanism thereof in a folded position according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0095] Figure 4a and Figure 4b They are schematic diagrams of a seat assembly and a linkage mechanism thereof according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure in a lying-flat position;

[0096] Figure 5a and Figure 5b They are schematic diagrams of a seat assembly and a linkage mechanism thereof according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure in a convenient entry position;

[0097] Figure 6a is a schematic perspective view of a seat assembly for a motor vehicle according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein the seat assembly is in its design position and an outer covering of the seat assembly is removed to reveal an inner frame;

[0098] Figure 6b yes Figure 6aA schematic diagram of a linkage mechanism of a seat assembly shown, wherein the linkage mechanism is in a design position;

[0099] Figure 7a and Figure 7b They are schematic diagrams of a seat assembly and a linkage mechanism thereof in a folded position according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0100] Figure 8a and Figure 8b They are schematic diagrams of a seat assembly and a linkage mechanism thereof according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure in a lying-flat position;

[0101] Figure 9a and Figure 9b They are schematic diagrams of a seat assembly and a linkage mechanism thereof according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure in a convenient entry position;

[0102] Fig.9c shows a force analysis diagram of a first linkage mechanism for a seat back according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0103] Figure 9d shows a force analysis diagram of a first linkage mechanism for a seat back according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0104] Fig.10a is a schematic perspective view of a seat assembly for a motor vehicle according to a third embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein the seat assembly is in its design position and an outer covering of the seat assembly is removed to reveal an inner frame;

[0105] Fig.10b yes Fig.10a A schematic diagram of a linkage mechanism of a seat assembly shown, wherein the linkage mechanism is in a design position;

[0106] Fig.11a and Fig.11b They are schematic diagrams of a seat assembly and a linkage mechanism thereof in a high-profile position according to a third embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0107] Fig.12a and Figure 12b They are schematic diagrams of a seat assembly and a linkage mechanism thereof according to a third embodiment of the present disclosure in a zero gravity position (also referred to as a “zero pressure state”);

[0108] Fig.13a and Fig.13b Schematic diagrams of a seat assembly and its linkage mechanism in a folded position according to a third embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0109] Fig.14a and Fig.14bThey are schematic diagrams of a seat assembly and a linkage mechanism thereof in a convenient entry position according to a third embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0110] Fig.15a and Fig.15b They are schematic diagrams of a seat assembly and a linkage mechanism thereof according to a third embodiment of the present disclosure in a lying-flat position;

[0111] Fig.16 is an alternative embodiment of the linkage mechanism of the seat assembly according to the third embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0112] Fig.17a is a schematic perspective view of a seat assembly for a motor vehicle according to a fourth embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein the seat assembly is in its design position and an outer covering of the seat assembly is removed to reveal an inner frame;

[0113] Fig.17b yes Fig.17a A schematic diagram of a linkage mechanism of a seat assembly shown, wherein the linkage mechanism is in a design position;

[0114] Fig.18a and Fig.18b They are schematic diagrams of a seat assembly and a linkage mechanism thereof in a high-profile position according to a fourth embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0115] Fig.19a and Fig.19b Schematic diagrams of a seat assembly and a linkage mechanism thereof in a zero gravity position according to a fourth embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0116] Fig.20a and Fig.20b They are schematic diagrams of a seat assembly and a linkage mechanism thereof in a folded position according to a fourth embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0117] Fig.21a and Figure 21b They are schematic diagrams of a seat assembly and a linkage mechanism thereof according to a fourth embodiment of the present disclosure in a convenient entry position;

[0118] Fig.22a and Figure 22b They are schematic diagrams of a seat assembly and a linkage mechanism thereof according to a fourth embodiment of the present disclosure in a lying-flat position;

[0119] Fig.23 is an alternative embodiment of the linkage mechanism of the seat assembly according to the fourth embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0120] Fig.24ais a schematic perspective view of a seat assembly for a motor vehicle according to a fifth embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein the seat assembly is in its design position and an outer covering of the seat assembly is removed to reveal an inner frame;

[0121] Figure 24b yes Fig.24a A schematic diagram of a linkage mechanism of a seat assembly shown, wherein the linkage mechanism is in a design position;

[0122] Fig.25a and Fig.25b They are schematic diagrams of a seat assembly and a linkage mechanism thereof in a high-profile position according to a fifth embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0123] Fig.26a and Figure 26b They are schematic diagrams of a seat assembly and a linkage mechanism thereof in a folded position according to a fifth embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0124] Fig.27a and Figure 27b They are schematic diagrams of a seat assembly and a linkage mechanism thereof according to a fifth embodiment of the present disclosure in a convenient entry position;

[0125] Fig.28a and Fig.28b They are schematic diagrams of a seat assembly and a linkage mechanism thereof according to a fifth embodiment of the present disclosure in a lying-flat position;

[0126] Fig.29a is a schematic perspective view of a seat assembly for a motor vehicle according to a sixth embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein the seat assembly is in its design position and an outer covering of the seat assembly is removed to reveal an inner frame;

[0127] Fig.29b yes Fig.29a A schematic diagram of a linkage mechanism of a seat assembly shown, wherein the linkage mechanism is in a design position;

[0128] Fig.30a and Fig.30b They are schematic diagrams of a seat assembly and a linkage mechanism thereof in a high-profile position according to a sixth embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0129] Fig.31a and Fig.31b They are schematic diagrams of a seat assembly and a linkage mechanism thereof in a folded position according to a sixth embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0130] Fig.32a and Figure 32b They are schematic diagrams of a seat assembly and a linkage mechanism thereof according to a sixth embodiment of the present disclosure in a convenient entry position;

[0131] Fig.33a and Figure 33b They are schematic diagrams of a seat assembly and a linkage mechanism thereof according to a sixth embodiment of the present disclosure in a lying-flat position;

[0132] Fig.34a is a schematic perspective view of a seat assembly for a motor vehicle according to a seventh embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein the seat assembly is in its design position and an outer covering of the seat assembly is removed to reveal an inner frame;

[0133] Fig.34b yes Fig.34a A schematic diagram of a linkage mechanism of a seat assembly shown, wherein the linkage mechanism is in a design position;

[0134] Fig.35a and Fig.35b Schematic diagrams of a seat assembly and a linkage mechanism thereof in a zero gravity position according to a seventh embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0135] Fig.36a is a schematic perspective view of a seat assembly for a motor vehicle according to an eighth embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein the seat assembly is in its design position and an outer covering of the seat assembly is removed to reveal an inner frame;

[0136] Fig.36b yes Fig.36a A schematic diagram of a linkage mechanism of a seat assembly shown, wherein the linkage mechanism is in a design position;

[0137] Fig.37a and Fig.37b Schematic diagrams of a seat assembly and a linkage mechanism thereof according to an eighth embodiment of the present disclosure in a zero gravity position;

[0138] Fig.38a is a schematic diagram of a linkage mechanism of a prior art seat assembly in a zero gravity position;

[0139] Figure 38b is a schematic diagram of a linkage mechanism of a seat assembly in a zero gravity position according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0140] Fig.38c yes Fig.38a The linkage mechanism of the seat assembly of the prior art Figure 38b A comparison diagram of the linkage mechanism of the seat assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure when both are in a zero gravity position;

[0141] Fig.39 is a schematic diagram of an occupant seated on a prior art seat assembly in a zero gravity position;

[0142] Fig.40 is a schematic diagram of an occupant seated on a seat assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure in a zero gravity position.

[0143] It should be understood that like reference numerals refer to like elements throughout the drawings. In the drawings, the dimensions of certain features may be varied and not drawn to scale for clarity. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0144] The present disclosure will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein the accompanying drawings illustrate several embodiments of the present disclosure. However, it should be understood that the present disclosure can be presented in a variety of different ways and is not limited to the embodiments described below; in fact, the embodiments described below are intended to make the disclosure of the present disclosure more complete and fully illustrate the scope of protection of the present disclosure to those skilled in the art. It should also be understood that the embodiments disclosed herein can be combined in various ways to provide more additional embodiments.

[0145] It should be understood that the terms used in the specification are only used to describe specific embodiments and are not intended to limit the present disclosure. All terms (including technical terms and scientific terms) used in the specification have the meanings commonly understood by those skilled in the art unless otherwise defined. For the sake of simplicity and / or clarity, well-known functions or structures may not be described in detail.

[0146] The singular forms "a", "said" and "the" used in the specification include plural forms unless clearly indicated. The terms "include", "comprise" and "contain" used in the specification indicate the presence of the claimed features, but do not exclude the presence of one or more other features. The term "and / or" used in the specification includes any and all combinations of one or more of the relevant listed items.

[0147] In the specification, when an element is referred to as being “on,” “attached to,” “connected to,” “coupled to,” or “contacting” another element, etc., the element may be directly on, attached to, connected to, coupled to, or contacting another element, or intervening elements may be present.

[0148] In the specification, the terms "first", "second", "third", etc. are only used for convenience of description and are not intended to be limiting. Any technical features represented by "first", "second", "third", etc. are interchangeable.

[0149] In the specification, spatial relational terms such as "upper", "lower", "front", "back", "top", "bottom", etc. may describe the relationship of one feature to another feature in the drawings. It should be understood that the spatial relational terms include different orientations of the device in use or operation in addition to the orientation shown in the drawings. For example, when the device in the drawings is turned over, features previously described as being "below" other features may now be described as being "above" the other features. The device may also be oriented in other ways (rotated 90 degrees or in other orientations), and the relative spatial relationships will be interpreted accordingly.

[0150] The present disclosure relates to a seat assembly for a motor vehicle that is movable between at least two or more positions to achieve corresponding functions. Figure 1 As shown, the seat assembly 1 according to the present disclosure may include a seat cushion 2 and a seat back 3. The seat assembly 1 according to the present disclosure may also include a linkage mechanism configured to move the seat cushion 2 and the seat back 3 to achieve movement of the seat assembly 1 between at least two or more positions.

[0151] Different from the seat assembly of the prior art, the linkage mechanism of the seat assembly 1 according to the present disclosure includes a first linkage mechanism for the seat back 3 and a second linkage mechanism for the seat cushion 2. The first linkage mechanism includes a restraining end and a movable end. The restraining end of the first linkage mechanism can be pivotally mounted on the vehicle floor, or pivotally mounted on a slide rail that can slide relative to the vehicle floor to move the seat assembly 1, or pivotally mounted on a rotating component that can rotate relative to the vehicle floor to rotate the seat assembly 1 around the vertical direction. The first linkage mechanism can be driven by a first backrest driving device (e.g., a motor and / or a recliner) to pivot around a first pivoting portion arranged at its restraining end, thereby driving the movable end of the first linkage mechanism to move or swing. The bottom end of the seat back 3 (the end close to the seat cushion 2) is pivotally connected to the movable end of the first linkage mechanism. On the one hand, this enables the seat back 3 to move or swing accordingly following the movement or swing of the movable end of the first linkage mechanism; on the other hand, this also enables the seat back 3 to pivot relative to the first linkage mechanism around the second pivot portion provided at the movable end of the first linkage mechanism. The pivoting of the seat back 3 relative to the first linkage mechanism around the second pivot portion can be driven by a second backrest drive device (e.g., a motor and / or a recliner). Therefore, the seat back 3 of the seat assembly 1 according to the present disclosure can be referred to as a "dual-drive" seat back. In an embodiment according to the present disclosure, when the first backrest drive device and the second backrest drive device are not working, the pivoting of the first linkage mechanism around the first pivot portion and the pivoting of the seat back 3 around the second pivot portion can be locked, so that the seat back 3 cannot move.

[0152] The second linkage mechanism for the seat cushion 2 may include at least one restraining end and at least one movable end. The at least one restraining end of the second linkage mechanism may also be pivotally mounted on a vehicle floor (e.g., a vehicle floor bottom plate), or pivotally mounted on a slide rail that can slide relative to the vehicle floor to move the seat assembly 1, or pivotally mounted on a rotating component that can rotate relative to the vehicle floor to rotate the seat assembly 1 around a vertical direction. The second linkage mechanism may be driven by one or more cushion drive devices (e.g., a motor and / or an adjuster) to pivot around a pivot portion provided at its corresponding restraining end, thereby driving the movable end of the second linkage mechanism to move or swing. The seat cushion 2 is pivotally connected to the at least one movable end of the second linkage mechanism to move or swing accordingly following the movement or swing of the movable end of the second linkage mechanism. In an embodiment according to the present disclosure, when the corresponding cushion drive device in the one or more cushion drive devices is not working, the pivoting of the second linkage mechanism around the pivot portion at its corresponding restraining end may be locked, so that the seat cushion 2 can be restrictedly moved or cannot be moved.

[0153] In some embodiments, the constraint end of the first linkage mechanism for the seat back 3 and the constraint end of the second linkage mechanism for the seat cushion 2 can be installed on the same component, for example, both are installed on the vehicle floor, on a slide rail, or on a rotating component. In other embodiments, the constraint end of the first linkage mechanism for the seat back 3 and the constraint end of the second linkage mechanism for the seat cushion 2 can be installed on different components, for example, installed on two separate components.

[0154] Unlike the seat assemblies in the prior art, in the seat assembly 1 according to the present disclosure, the bottom end of the seat back 3 and the first linkage mechanism for the seat back 3 are not mounted on the seat cushion 2, and the first linkage mechanism for the seat back 3 and the second linkage mechanism for the seat cushion 2 can be driven independently relative to each other. Such a construction realizes independent control of the movement of both the seat back 3 and the seat cushion 2. This independent control combined with the "dual drive" of the seat back mentioned above enables the seat assembly 1 according to the present disclosure to have more flexible adjustment performance. This more flexible adjustment performance not only improves the comfort of the seat assembly 1 according to the present disclosure, but also expands the use scenarios of the seat assembly 1 according to the present disclosure, which will be described in detail below.

[0155] Reference Figure 2a and 2b , shows a seat assembly 1 according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein, Figure 2a The seat assembly 1 is shown with the outer covering removed to reveal the inner frame 100 in its original design position for supporting an occupant; Figure 2b Shows Figure 2a A schematic principle diagram of a linkage mechanism 150 of a seat assembly 1 is shown.

[0156] like Figure 2a and Figure 2b As shown, the linkage mechanism 150 of the seat assembly 1 according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure includes a first linkage mechanism 151 for the seat back 3 and a second linkage mechanism 152 for the seat cushion 2 .

[0157] In this first embodiment, the first linkage mechanism 151 can be constructed as a "single-link" linkage mechanism. Figure 2b As shown, the first linkage mechanism 151 may only include a linkage member 1511. The linkage member 1511 includes a restraining end 1512 and a movable end 1513. The restraining end 1512 of the linkage member 1511 may be Figure 2b The seat assembly 1 is pivotally mounted on the vehicle floor at the position A shown, or is pivotally mounted on a slide rail that can slide relative to the vehicle floor to move the seat assembly 1, or is pivotally mounted on a rotating component that can rotate relative to the vehicle floor to rotate the seat assembly 1 around a vertical direction. The linkage member 1511 can be driven by a first backrest driving device (e.g., a motor and / or a recliner) to pivot around a first pivot portion provided at the restraining end 1512, thereby driving the movable end 1513 of the linkage member 1511 of the first linkage mechanism 151 to move or swing. The bottom end of the seat back 3 can be pivotally connected to the movable end 1513 of the linkage member 1511 of the first linkage mechanism 151, so that the seat back 3 can move or swing accordingly following the movement or swing of the movable end 1513 of the linkage member 1511 of the first linkage mechanism 151, and can pivot relative to the first linkage mechanism 151 (more specifically, its linkage member 1511) around the second pivoting portion provided at the movable end 1513 of the linkage member 1511 of the first linkage mechanism 151. The pivoting of the seat back 3 relative to the first linkage mechanism 151 around the second pivoting portion can be driven by a second backrest driving device (e.g., a motor and / or a recliner). In addition, as mentioned above, when the first backrest driving device and the second backrest driving device are not working, the pivoting of the first linkage mechanism 151 around the first pivoting portion and the pivoting of the seat back 3 around the second pivoting portion can be locked, so that the seat back 3 cannot move.

[0158] In some embodiments, Figure 2aAs shown, the linkage 1511 can be formed by two parts 1514 and 1515. The two parts 1514 and 1515 can be fixed to each other (i.e., cannot pivot relative to each other) to form the linkage 1511. This structure facilitates the assembly of the seat assembly 1. For example, during assembly, the part 1515 can be pivotally mounted on the vehicle floor, slide rail or rotating part and the corresponding first backrest drive device can be installed, and the part 1514 can be pivotally mounted on the seat back 3 and the corresponding second backrest drive device can be installed, and then the parts 1514 and 1515 can be fixed to each other with fasteners. This installation method is easier to operate. In other embodiments, the linkage 1511 can also be formed as an integral part.

[0159] In the first embodiment, the second linkage mechanism 152 may include a first linkage member 1521 and a second linkage member 1522. The first linkage member 1521 may be configured as a slide plate, which includes a slide groove 1523 extending along the length direction of the first linkage member 1521, and one end of the slide plate may be Figure 2b The second linkage member 1522 includes a restraining end 1524 and a movable end 1525. The restraining end 1524 of the second linkage member 1522 can be fixed on the vehicle floor, on the slide rail or on the rotating component at the position B shown. Figure 2b The position C shown is pivotally mounted on the vehicle floor, on a slide rail or on a rotating component, wherein the position C is spaced apart from the position B by a predetermined distance in a direction away from the seat back 3. The end 21 of the seat cushion 2 of the seat assembly 1 close to the seat back 3 is slidably mounted in the slide groove 1523 of the first linkage 1521 (slide groove plate), while the other end 22 away from the seat back 3 is pivotally connected to the movable end 1525 of the second linkage 1522. In this embodiment, the second linkage 1522 of the second linkage mechanism 152 can be pivoted around the pivoting portion provided at the restraining end 1524 under the drive of the seat cushion driving device (e.g., a motor and / or an adjuster), thereby driving the seat cushion 2 to move or swing.

[0160] In this first embodiment, if Figure 2aAs shown, the first linkage mechanism 151 may include two linkage members 1511, which are respectively arranged on the left and right sides of the seat assembly 1. The two linkage members 1511 may be configured to be able to move synchronously under the drive of the same driving device, for example, by means of two angle adjusters connected to each other, and move synchronously via the drive of a single motor. Similarly, the second linkage mechanism 152 may include two first linkage members 1521 and two second linkage members 1522, which are respectively arranged on the left and right sides of the seat assembly 1. The two second linkage members 1522 may be configured to be able to move synchronously under the drive of the same driving device, for example, by means of two angle adjusters connected to each other, and move synchronously via the drive of a single motor. The two second linkage members 1522 may also be configured to be directly driven by two motors without using an adjuster.

[0161] In this first embodiment, by means of the linkage mechanism 150, the seat assembly 1 according to the present disclosure can be in a design position (such as Figure 2a and Figure 2b as shown), folded position (as shown Figure 3a and Figure 3b as shown), lying flat position (as shown Figure 4a and Figure 4b ), and the EasyZE position (as shown Figure 5a and Figure 5b shown).

[0162] In the design position, such as Figure 2a As shown, the seat back 3 of the seat assembly 1 is at a predetermined angle relative to the seat cushion 2 for supporting an occupant.

[0163] In the folded position, as Figure 3a As shown, the seat back 3 of the seat assembly 1 is substantially overlapped with the seat cushion 2 to increase the space (e.g., cargo space) of the motor vehicle. Figure 3bAs shown, in order to move the seat assembly 1 from the design position to the folding position, on the one hand, the cushion driving device can be used to drive the second linkage member 1522 of the second linkage mechanism 152 to pivot away from the seat back 3. During the pivoting process, the end 21 of the seat cushion 2 close to the seat back 3 slides in the slide groove 1523 in the direction away from the seat back 3 until it can no longer move in the slide groove 1523; on the other hand, the first backrest driving device can be used to drive the linkage member 1511 of the first linkage mechanism 151 to pivot toward the seat cushion 2 so that the seat back 3 is raised to facilitate folding. After pivoting a predetermined angle, the second backrest driving device can be used to drive the seat back 3 to pivot toward the seat cushion 2 until it is substantially overlapped with the seat cushion 2. In the present disclosure, the movement of the seat cushion 2 and the movement of the seat back 3 can be controlled separately (for example, separately controlled by a controller with a predetermined control program), so that the folding is more flexible. In other cases, the first backrest driving device can also be used to drive the linkage member 1511 of the first linkage mechanism 151 to pivot away from the seat cushion 2 (i.e., in a direction opposite to the pivot direction of the second linkage member 1522 of the second linkage mechanism 152). This pivoting method can place the folded seat back 3 in a lower position, thereby freeing up more cargo space.

[0164] In the lying position, such as Figure 4a As shown, the seat back 3 of the seat assembly 1 is substantially flush with the seat cushion 2, so that the occupant can lie on the seat assembly 1. Figure 4b As shown, in order to move the seat assembly 1 from the design position to the lying position, the first backrest driving device can be used to drive the linkage member 1511 of the first linkage mechanism 151 to pivot away from the seat cushion 2. After pivoting to a predetermined angle, the second backrest driving device can be used to drive the seat back 3 to pivot away from the seat cushion 2 relative to the linkage member 1511 of the first linkage mechanism 151 until it is substantially flush with the seat cushion 2. In the present disclosure, the angle at which the linkage member 1511 of the first linkage mechanism 151 pivots away from the seat cushion 2 can be controlled to adjust the final height of the seat back 3, so that the seat back 3 can be in substantially the same horizontal plane (or substantially the same height) as the seat cushion 2. Compared with the seat assembly of the prior art, with the aid of the independently controlled first linkage mechanism 151, the seat assembly 1 according to the present disclosure is more comfortable in the lying position.

[0165] In easy access locations, such as Figure 5a As shown, on the one hand, the seat cushion 2 of the seat assembly 1 can be pivoted forward a certain distance relative to the design position; on the other hand, the seat back 3 of the seat assembly 1 can be pivoted toward the seat cushion 2 at a predetermined angle relative to the design position, so that there is more space behind the seat assembly 1 to facilitate the entry and exit of passengers. Figure 5b As shown, in order to move the seat assembly 1 from the design position to the easy entry position, on the one hand, the seat cushion driving device can be used to drive the second linkage member 1522 of the second linkage mechanism 152 to pivot away from the seat back 3. During the pivoting process, the end 21 of the seat cushion 2 close to the seat back 3 slides in the slide groove 1523 in a direction away from the seat back 3 by a predetermined distance (such as Figure 5b As shown, it stops at a certain middle position of the slide groove 1523); on the other hand, the first backrest driving device can be used to drive the linkage member 1511 of the first linkage mechanism 151 to pivot toward the seat cushion 2, thereby driving the seat back 3 to move forward toward the seat cushion 2. In some cases, after the linkage member 1511 of the first linkage mechanism 151 pivots toward the seat cushion 2 by a predetermined angle, the second backrest driving device can also be used to drive the seat back 3 to continue to pivot toward the seat cushion 2 relative to the first linkage member 1511 until it pivots to a desired position. Compared with the seat assembly of the prior art, with the help of the independently controlled first linkage mechanism 151, the seat assembly 1 according to the present disclosure can release a larger convenient entry and exit space. In addition, if the first linkage mechanism 151 and the second linkage mechanism 152 of the seat assembly 1 are installed on the slide rail, the cushion driving device can also be used to drive the entire seat assembly 1 to slide forward, thereby further increasing the convenient entry and exit space.

[0166] 6a and 6b, a seat assembly 1 according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure is shown, wherein: Figure 6a The seat assembly 1 is shown with the outer covering removed to reveal the inner frame 200 in its original design position for supporting an occupant; Figure 6b Shows Figure 6a A schematic principle diagram of a linkage mechanism 250 of a seat assembly 1 is shown.

[0167] like Figure 6a and Figure 6b As shown, the linkage mechanism 250 of the seat assembly 1 according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure includes a first linkage mechanism 251 for the seat back 3 and a second linkage mechanism 252 for the seat back 2 .

[0168] In the second embodiment, the first linkage mechanism 251 can be constructed as a "four-bar linkage". Figure 6bAs shown, the first linkage mechanism 251 may include a first linkage 2511, a second linkage 2512 and a third linkage 2513. The first linkage 2511 may include a constraint end 2511-1 and a movable end 2511-2, and the second linkage 2512 may include a constraint end 2512-1 and a movable end 2512-2. The third linkage 2513 may include a first foot 2513-1, a second foot 2513-2 and a third foot 2513-3. For example, the third linkage 2513 may be configured as a triangle. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the third linkage 2513 may also be configured as a polygon such as a quadrilateral, a pentagon or other shapes. The constraint end 2511-1 of the first linkage 2511 and the constraint end 2512-1 of the second linkage 2512 may be respectively Figure 6a The positions A and B shown are pivotally mounted on the vehicle floor, or pivotally mounted on a slide rail that can slide relative to the vehicle floor to move the seat assembly 1, or pivotally mounted on a rotating component that can rotate relative to the vehicle floor to rotate the seat assembly 1 around a vertical direction. The movable end 2511-2 of the first linkage 2511 and the movable end 2512-2 of the second linkage 2512 can be pivotally connected to the first foot 2513-1 and the second foot 2513-2 of the third linkage 2513, respectively.

[0169] In this second embodiment, the first linkage member 2511 of the first linkage mechanism 251, the second linkage member 2512, the third linkage member 2513, and the components (vehicle floor, slide rail, or rotating component) on which the constraint ends 2511-1 of the first linkage member 2511 and the constraint ends 2512-1 of the second linkage member 2512 are installed constitute a so-called "four-bar" linkage mechanism. In the second embodiment, at least one of the first linkage 2511 and the second linkage 2512 of the first linkage mechanism 251 can be driven by means of a first backrest driving device (for example, a motor and / or a recliner), so that the first linkage 2511 and the second linkage 2512 can respectively pivot around a first pivot portion arranged at a constraint end 2511-1 of the first linkage 2511 and a second pivot portion arranged at a constraint end 2512-1 of the second linkage 2512, thereby driving the movable end 2511-2 of the first linkage 2511 and the movable end 2512-2 of the second linkage 2512 of the first linkage mechanism 251 to move or swing, which in turn drives the third linkage 2513 to move or swing.

[0170] In this second embodiment, the bottom end of the seat back 3 can be pivotally connected to the third foot 2513-3 of the third linkage 2513. On the one hand, this enables the seat back 3 to follow the movement or swing of the third foot 2513-3 of the third linkage 2513 of the first linkage 251 and to move or swing accordingly. On the other hand, this also enables the seat back 3 to pivot relative to the first linkage 251 (more specifically, its third linkage 2513) around the third pivot portion provided at the third foot 2513-3 of the third linkage 2513 of the first linkage 251. The pivoting of the seat back 3 relative to the first linkage 251 around the third pivot portion can be driven by a second backrest driving device (e.g., a motor and / or a recliner). In addition, as mentioned above, when the first backrest drive device and the second backrest drive device are not working, the pivoting of the first linkage mechanism 251 around the first pivot part and the second pivot part and the pivoting of the seat back 3 around the third pivot part can be locked, so that the seat back 3 cannot move.

[0171] In the second embodiment, the second linkage mechanism 252 may have the same design as the first linkage mechanism 151. For example, the second linkage mechanism 252 may include a first linkage member 2521 and a second linkage member 2522. The first linkage member 2521 may be configured as a slide plate, which includes a slide groove 2523 extending along the length direction of the first linkage member 2521. The first linkage member 2521 may be configured as a slide plate. Figure 6b The second linkage member 2522 includes a restraining end 2524 and a movable end 2525. The restraining end 2524 of the second linkage member 2522 can be fixed on the vehicle floor, on the slide rail or on the rotating component at the position C shown. Figure 6b The position D shown is pivotally mounted on the vehicle floor, on a slide rail or on a rotating component, wherein the position D is spaced apart from the position C by a predetermined distance in a direction away from the seat back 3. The end 21 of the seat cushion 2 of the seat assembly 1 close to the seat back 3 is slidably mounted in the slide groove 2523 of the first linkage 2521, while the other end 22 away from the seat back 3 is pivotally connected to the movable end 2525 of the second linkage 2522. In this embodiment, the second linkage 2522 of the second linkage mechanism 252 can be pivotally rotated around the pivoting portion provided at the restraining end 2524 under the drive of the seat cushion driving device (e.g., a motor and / or an adjuster), thereby driving the seat cushion 2 to move or swing.

[0172] Similar to the first embodiment, in the second embodiment, if Figure 6aAs shown, the first linkage mechanism 251 may include two first linkage members 2511, two second linkage members 2512 and two third linkage members 2513, which are respectively arranged on the left and right sides of the seat assembly 1. The two first linkage members 2511 or the two second linkage members 2512 may be configured to be able to move synchronously under the drive of the same driving device, for example, by means of two angle adjusters connected to each other, and move synchronously via the drive of a single motor. Similarly, the second linkage mechanism 252 may include two first linkage members 2521 and two second linkage members 2522, which are respectively arranged on the left and right sides of the seat assembly 1. The two second linkage members 2522 may be configured to be able to move synchronously under the drive of the same driving device, for example, by means of two angle adjusters connected to each other, and move synchronously via the drive of a single motor.

[0173] Similar to the first embodiment, in the second embodiment, by means of the linkage mechanism 250, the seat assembly 1 according to the present disclosure can be in the design position (such as Figure 6a and Figure 6b as shown), folded position (as shown Figure 7a and Figure 7b as shown), lying flat position (as shown Figure 8a and Figure 8b ), and the EasyZE position (as shown Figure 9a and Figure 9b In the second embodiment, the movement process of the seat assembly 1 from the design position to other positions is substantially the same as that of the first embodiment, and will not be described in detail herein.

[0174] Compared with the first linkage mechanism 151 in the first embodiment which is constructed as a "single-link" linkage mechanism, the first linkage mechanism 251 in the second embodiment which is constructed as a "four-link" linkage mechanism can achieve additional advantages. In particular, the first linkage mechanism 251 in the second embodiment can be suitable for high-strength application scenarios (for example, it can be used in a seat back including an ABTS (full safety belt to seat) that requires high strength).

[0175] Specifically, if Fig.9c and 9dAs shown, in the first embodiment, when the force F is applied to the seat back 3, the force F is transmitted to the movable end 1513 of the linkage 1511 of the first linkage mechanism 151. At this point, the force F can be decomposed into two components F7 and F8 orthogonal to each other, wherein F7 is perpendicular to the linkage 1511. In this way, a moment M2 will be generated at the restraining end 1512 of the linkage 1511, wherein M2=F7*L1. In contrast, in the second embodiment, when the force F is applied to the seat back 3, the force F is transmitted to the first foot 2513-1 and the second foot 2513-2 of the third linkage 2513 of the first linkage mechanism 251, and is decomposed into two forces F1 and F4, wherein F=F1+F4. At the same time, force F1 includes two orthogonal components F2 and F3, wherein F2 is perpendicular to the second linkage 2512; force F4 includes two orthogonal components F5 and F6, wherein F5 is perpendicular to the first linkage 2511. Thus, if the second linkage 2512 is a driven member, a torque M1 will be generated at the constraint end 2512-1 of the second linkage 2512, wherein torque M1=F2*L2. Since F2 is smaller than F, and L2 is smaller than L1, M1 is smaller than M2. In addition, if the first linkage 2511 is a driven member, the situation is similar.

[0176] It can be seen that when subjected to the same magnitude of external force F, the "four-bar linkage" linkage mechanism of the second embodiment is subjected to a smaller torque than the "single-bar linkage" linkage mechanism of the first embodiment. In other words, compared with the "single-bar linkage" linkage mechanism of the first embodiment, the "four-bar linkage" linkage mechanism of the second embodiment will be able to withstand a greater external force or strength. Therefore, the first linkage mechanism 251 of the second embodiment configured as a "four-bar linkage" linkage mechanism will be more suitable for high-strength application scenarios. In other words, with the aid of the first linkage mechanism 251 configured as a "four-bar linkage" linkage mechanism, the seat assembly according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure also has more superior strength performance.

[0177] Reference Fig.10a and Fig.10b , shows a seat assembly 1 according to a third embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein, Fig.10a The seat assembly 1 is shown with the outer covering removed to reveal the inner frame 300 in its original design position for supporting an occupant; Fig.10b Shows Fig.10a A schematic principle diagram of a linkage mechanism 350 of a seat assembly 1 is shown.

[0178] like Fig.10a and Fig.10b As shown, the linkage mechanism 350 of the seat assembly 1 according to the third embodiment of the present disclosure includes a first linkage mechanism 351 for the seat back 3 and a second linkage mechanism 352 for the seat back 2 .

[0179] In the third embodiment, the first linkage mechanism 351 is constructed as a "single-link" linkage mechanism, which has substantially the same structure and function as the first linkage mechanism 151 of the first embodiment. Therefore, all technical features described with reference to the first linkage mechanism 151 of the first embodiment are applicable to the first linkage mechanism 351 of the third embodiment. For the purpose of simplifying the description, they are not described here in detail.

[0180] In the third embodiment, the second linkage mechanism 352 is constructed as a "five-link" linkage mechanism. The second linkage mechanism 352 may include a first linkage member 3521, a second linkage member 3522, and a third linkage member 3523. The first linkage member 3521 includes a restraining end 3521-1 and a movable end 3521-2, the second linkage member includes a first movable end 3522-1 and a second movable end 3522-2, and the third linkage member includes a restraining end 3523-1 and a movable end 3523-2. The restraining end 3521-1 of the first linkage member 3521 and the restraining end 3523-1 of the third linkage member 3523 may be respectively as follows: Fig.10b The seat cushion 2 of the seat assembly 1 is pivotally mounted on the vehicle floor at the positions A and C shown, or is pivotally mounted on a slide rail that can slide relative to the vehicle floor to move the seat assembly 1, or is pivotally mounted on a rotating member that can rotate relative to the vehicle floor to rotate the seat assembly 1 around the vertical direction. One end 21 of the seat cushion 2 of the seat assembly 1 close to the seat back 3 is pivotally connected to the movable end 3521-2 of the first linkage 3521, and the other end 22 away from the seat back 3 is pivotally connected to the first movable end 3522-1 of the second linkage 3522. The second movable end 3522-2 of the second linkage 3522 is pivotally connected to the movable end 3523-2 of the third linkage 3523. Thus, in this third embodiment, the first linkage member 3521, the second linkage member 3522 and the third linkage member 3523 of the second linkage mechanism 352, the seat cushion 2, and the components (vehicle floor, slide rail, or rotating component) on which the restraining ends 3521-1 of the first linkage member 3521 and the restraining ends 3523-1 of the third linkage member 3523 are installed constitute a so-called "five-link" linkage mechanism.

[0181] Similar to the first and second embodiments, in the third embodiment, the second linkage mechanism 352 may include two first linkage members 3521, two second linkage members 3522, and two third linkage members 3523, which are respectively arranged on the left and right sides of the seat assembly 1. The two first linkage members 3521, the two second linkage members 3522, or the two third linkage members 3523 may be configured to be able to move synchronously under the drive of the same driving device, for example, by means of two recliners connected to each other, and move synchronously via the drive of a single motor.

[0182] In the third embodiment, by means of the second linkage mechanism 352 configured as a "five-link" linkage mechanism, the seat assembly 1 according to the present disclosure can be in the design position (such as Fig.10a and Fig.10b as shown), high-profile positions (such as Fig.11a and Fig.11b ), zero gravity position (as shown in Fig.12a and 12b as shown), folded position (as shown Fig.13a and Fig.13b as shown), the Easy Entry (EZE) position (as shown Fig.14a and Fig.14b ), and lying flat position (as shown Fig.15a and Fig.15b shown).

[0183] In order to realize the movement of the seat assembly 1 between the above-mentioned multiple positions (design position, high-profile position, zero-gravity position, folded position, easy-entry position and lying-flat position), the second linkage mechanism 352 can be configured to be driven by at least two cushion driving devices (e.g., motors and / or regulators), wherein the first cushion driving device of the at least two cushion driving devices is used to drive the seat cushion 2 to realize the zero-gravity position, and the second cushion driving device is used to drive the seat cushion 2 to realize other positions. In addition, in this third embodiment, the third linkage 3523 can be configured as a zero-gravity linkage for realizing the zero-gravity position of the seat assembly 1, such as Fig.10b and 12b However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the second linkage member 3522 may also be configured as a zero-gravity linkage member for achieving the zero-gravity position of the seat assembly 1, such as Fig.16 shown.

[0184] In the design position, such as Fig.10a As shown, the seat back 3 of the seat assembly 1 is at a predetermined angle relative to the seat cushion 2 for supporting an occupant.

[0185] In the high-profile position, the seat cushion 2 of the seat assembly 1 can be raised or lowered by a predetermined height in the height direction compared to the design position. Fig.11bAs shown, in order to move the seat assembly 1 from the design position to the high-profile position, the second cushion driving device may be used to drive the first linkage 3521 of the second linkage mechanism 352 to pivot away from the seat back 3, thereby raising the seat cushion 2 of the seat assembly 1, or drive the first linkage 3521 of the second linkage mechanism 352 to pivot toward the seat back 3, thereby lowering the seat cushion 2 of the seat assembly 1. In this process, the first cushion driving device may be used to lock the zero-gravity linkage (e.g., the second linkage 3522 or the third linkage 3523), so that the zero-gravity linkage cannot move, and only the seat cushion 2 and other linkages except the zero-gravity linkage move. In addition, during or after the process of using the second seat cushion driving device to drive the first linkage member 3521 of the second linkage mechanism 352 to pivot away from the seat back 3, the first backrest driving device can also be used to drive the linkage member 3511 of the first linkage mechanism 351 to pivot toward or away from the seat cushion 2 so that the seat back 3 is raised or lowered accordingly, and / or the second backrest driving device can be used to drive the seat back 3 to pivot toward or away from the linkage member 3511 of the first linkage mechanism 351 relative to the seat cushion 2, so that the seat back 3 and the seat cushion 2 can still be adjusted to a predetermined position and a predetermined angle relative to each other in the high-adjustment position to increase the comfort of the seat assembly 1.

[0186] In zero gravity, such as Fig.12a As shown, the seat assembly 1 is adjusted to a designed zero-pressure state (for example, the seat cushion 2 and the seat back 3 are adjusted to a predetermined angle and relative position, the footrest 4 of the seat cushion 2 is extended and in a predetermined position, etc.). Figure 12b As shown, in order to move the seat assembly 1 from the design position to the zero gravity position, the first cushion driving device can be used to drive the zero gravity linkage ( Figure 12b The third linkage member 3523 in the figure pivots toward the seat back 3. In this process, the first linkage member 3521 can be locked by the second cushion driving device so that the first linkage member 3521 cannot move, and only the second linkage member 3522, the third linkage member 3523 and the seat cushion 2 can move; the movable end 3521-2 of the first linkage member 3521 can also be locked by the second cushion driving device so that the seat cushion 2 cannot pivot around the movable end 3521-2 of the first linkage member 3521, but the first linkage member 3521 can still pivot around its pivot end 3521-1. In addition, in the process of moving the seat assembly 1 from the design position to the zero gravity position, the first backrest driving device can be used to drive the linkage member 3511 of the first linkage mechanism 351 to pivot away from the seat cushion 2, and the second backrest driving device can be used to drive the seat back 3 to pivot away from or closer to the seat cushion 2 relative to the linkage member 3511 of the first linkage mechanism 351 until the seat back 3 is pivoted to the desired position.

[0187] In the third embodiment, since the first linkage mechanism 351 and the seat back 3 can be pivoted under the drive of the first back driving device and the second back driving device respectively (i.e., can be adjusted separately), the seat assembly 1 according to the present disclosure can overcome the defects of the prior art seat assembly such as no support for the waist and shoulders in the zero-gravity position, thereby providing a more comfortable "zero-pressure state" experience for the occupant. This will be combined with Figures 38a to 40 To explain.

[0188] like Fig.38a and Fig.39 As shown, in the seat assembly 1' of the prior art, in the zero gravity position, the bottom 31' of the seat back 3' cannot move relative to the seat cushion 2' in the zero gravity position. This causes the seat back 3' to tilt so that its bottom 31' is closer to the seat cushion 2' and its top 32' is farther away from the seat cushion 2' (see FIG. Fig.38c ), so that when the occupant sits on the seat assembly 1', the bottom 31' of the seat back 3' will press against the occupant's waist, while the top 32' of the seat back 3' does not provide sufficient support for the occupant's shoulders or head. The seat back 3 of the third embodiment of the present disclosure can be properly adjusted under the drive of the first backrest driving device and the second backrest driving device. Therefore, it can be adjusted to a more comfortable position that does not press against the occupant's waist but can provide support for the occupant's shoulders or head (see Figure 38b , 38c and Fig.40 ), thereby enhancing or improving the comfort of the seat component.

[0189] return Figures 13a to 15b , which respectively shows the seat assembly 1 in the folding position, the convenient entry position, and the lying flat position according to the third embodiment. The process of moving the seat assembly 1 from the design position to these folding positions, the convenient entry position, and the lying flat position is basically the same as the process described in the first embodiment. For the purpose of simplifying the description, it is not repeated here. It should be noted that in the third embodiment, in the process of moving the seat assembly 1 from the design position to the folding position, the convenient entry position, and the lying flat position, the first cushion drive device can be used to lock the zero-gravity linkage (for example, the second linkage 3522 or the third linkage 3523) so that the zero-gravity linkage cannot move, and only the seat cushion 2 and other linkages except the zero-gravity linkage are moved.

[0190] Next, refer to Figure 17a to Figure 17b , shows a seat assembly 1 according to a fourth embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein, Fig.17aThe seat assembly 1 is shown with the outer covering removed to reveal the inner frame 400 in its original design position for supporting an occupant; Fig.17b Shows Fig.17a A schematic diagram of a linkage mechanism 450 of a seat assembly 1 is shown.

[0191] like Fig.17a and Fig.17b As shown, a linkage mechanism 450 of a seat assembly 1 according to a fourth embodiment of the present disclosure includes a first linkage mechanism 451 for the seat back 3 and a second linkage mechanism 452 for the seat back 2 .

[0192] The first linkage mechanism 451 is configured as a "four-bar linkage". The first linkage mechanism 451 may have substantially the same configuration and function as the first linkage mechanism 251 of the second embodiment. Therefore, all technical features described with reference to the first linkage mechanism 251 of the second embodiment are applicable to the first linkage mechanism 451 of the fourth embodiment. For the purpose of simplifying the description, they will not be described in detail here.

[0193] The second linkage mechanism 452 is configured as a "five-link" linkage mechanism. The second linkage mechanism 452 may have substantially the same configuration and function as the second linkage mechanism 352 of the third embodiment. Therefore, all technical features described with reference to the second linkage mechanism 352 of the third embodiment are applicable to the second linkage mechanism 452 of the fourth embodiment. For the purpose of simplifying the description, they are not described in detail here.

[0194] Similar to the third embodiment, in the fourth embodiment, by means of the second linkage mechanism 452 configured as a "five-link" linkage mechanism, the seat assembly 1 according to the present disclosure can be in the design position (such as Fig.17a and Fig.17b as shown), high-profile positions (such as Fig.18a and Fig.18b ), zero gravity position (as shown in Fig.19a and 19b as shown), folded position (as shown Fig.20a and Fig.20b as shown), the Easy Entry (EZE) position (as shown Fig.21a and Figure 21b ), and lying flat position (as shown Fig.22a and Figure 22b Compared with the seat assembly of the prior art, the seat assembly 1 according to the present disclosure is more comfortable in all positions.

[0195] In addition, since the first linkage mechanism 451 of the fourth embodiment adopts the same "four-link" linkage mechanism as the first linkage mechanism 251 of the second embodiment, the first linkage mechanism 451 of the fourth embodiment configured as a "four-link" linkage mechanism will be more suitable for high-strength application scenarios. In other words, with the help of the first linkage mechanism 451 configured as a "four-link" linkage mechanism, the seat assembly according to the fourth embodiment of the present disclosure also has more superior strength performance.

[0196] Reference Figure 24a to Figure 24b , shows a seat assembly 1 according to a fifth embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein, Fig.24a The seat assembly 1 is shown with the outer covering removed to reveal the inner frame 500 in its original design position for supporting an occupant; Figure 24b Shows Fig.24a A schematic diagram of a linkage mechanism 550 of a seat assembly 1 is shown.

[0197] like Fig.24a and Figure 24b As shown, a linkage mechanism 550 of a seat assembly 1 according to a fifth embodiment of the present disclosure includes a first linkage mechanism 551 for the seat back 3 and a second linkage mechanism 552 for the seat back 2 .

[0198] The first linkage mechanism 551 is configured as a "single-link" linkage mechanism. The first linkage mechanism 551 may have substantially the same configuration and function as the first linkage mechanism 151 of the first embodiment. Therefore, all technical features described with reference to the first linkage mechanism 151 of the first embodiment are applicable to the first linkage mechanism 551 of the fifth embodiment. For the purpose of simplifying the description, they will not be described in detail here.

[0199] The second linkage mechanism 552 is configured as a "four-bar linkage". The second linkage mechanism 552 may include a first linkage member 5521 and a second linkage member 5522. The first linkage member 5521 includes a restraining end 5521-1 and a movable end 5521-2. The second linkage member 5522 includes a restraining end 5522-1 and a movable end 5522-2. The restraining end 5521-1 of the first linkage member 5521 and the restraining end 5522-1 of the second linkage member 5522 may be respectively arranged as follows: Figure 24bThe seat cushion 2 of the seat assembly 1 is pivotally mounted on the vehicle floor, or is pivotally mounted on a slide rail that can slide relative to the vehicle floor to move the seat assembly 1, or is pivotally mounted on a rotating component that can rotate relative to the vehicle floor to rotate the seat assembly 1 around the vertical direction. The end 21 of the seat cushion 2 of the seat assembly 1 close to the seat back 3 is pivotally connected to the movable end 5521-2 of the first linkage 5521, and the other end 22 away from the seat back 3 is pivotally connected to the movable end 5522-1 of the second linkage 5522. In this way, in this fifth embodiment, the first linkage 5521 and the second linkage 5522 of the second linkage mechanism 552, the seat cushion 2, and the components (vehicle floor, slide rail, or rotating component) on which the restraining ends 5521-1 and 5522-1 of the first linkage 5521 and the second linkage 5522 are mounted constitute a so-called "four-bar" linkage mechanism.

[0200] In the fifth embodiment, at least one cushion driving device can be used to drive the first linkage member 5521 to pivot, so as to achieve movement of the seat assembly 1 between various positions.

[0201] Similar to the previous embodiments, in the fifth embodiment, the second linkage mechanism 552 may include two first linkage members 5521 and two second linkage members 5522, which are respectively arranged on the left and right sides of the seat assembly 1. The two first linkage members 5521 may be configured to be able to move synchronously under the drive of the same cushion driving device, for example, by means of two recliners connected to each other, and move synchronously through the drive of a single motor.

[0202] In this fifth embodiment, the seat assembly 1 according to the present disclosure can be positioned in a design position (such as Fig.24a and Figure 24b as shown), high-profile positions (such as Fig.25a and Fig.25b as shown), folded position (as shown Fig.26a and Figure 26b as shown), the Easy Entry (EZE) position (as shown Fig.27a and Figure 27b ), and lying flat position (as shown Fig.28a and Fig.28b Compared with the fourth embodiment, the seat assembly 1 according to the fifth embodiment cannot achieve a zero gravity position.

[0203] In the fifth embodiment, the movement of the seat assembly 1 from the design position to other positions (high-profile position, folded position, easy-entry position, and flat position) is substantially the same as the process described in conjunction with the first to fourth embodiments. For the purpose of simplifying the description, it will not be repeated here.

[0204] Reference Figure 29a to Figure 29b , shows a seat assembly 1 according to a sixth embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein, Fig.29a The seat assembly 1 is shown with the outer covering removed to reveal the inner frame 600 in its original design position for supporting an occupant; Fig.29b Shows Fig.29a A schematic diagram of a linkage mechanism 650 of a seat assembly 1 is shown.

[0205] like Fig.29a and Fig.29b As shown, a linkage mechanism 650 of a seat assembly 1 according to a sixth embodiment of the present disclosure includes a first linkage mechanism 651 for the seat back 3 and a second linkage mechanism 652 for the seat back 2 .

[0206] The first linkage mechanism 651 is configured as a "four-bar linkage". The first linkage mechanism 651 may have substantially the same configuration and function as the first linkage mechanism 251 of the second embodiment. Therefore, all technical features described with reference to the first linkage mechanism 251 of the second embodiment are applicable to the first linkage mechanism 651 of the sixth embodiment. For the purpose of simplifying the description, they will not be described in detail here.

[0207] The second linkage mechanism 652 is configured as a "four-bar linkage". The second linkage mechanism 652 may have substantially the same configuration and function as the second linkage mechanism 552 of the fifth embodiment. Therefore, all technical features described with reference to the second linkage mechanism 552 of the fifth embodiment are applicable to the second linkage mechanism 652 of the sixth embodiment. For the purpose of simplifying the description, they will not be described in detail herein.

[0208] In this sixth embodiment, the seat assembly 1 according to the present disclosure can be positioned in a design position (such as Fig.29a and Fig.29b as shown), high-profile positions (such as Fig.30a and Fig.30b as shown), folded position (as shown Fig.31a and Fig.31b as shown), the Easy Entry (EZE) position (as shown Fig.32a and Figure 32b ), and lying flat position (as shown Fig.33a and Figure 33b Likewise, the seat assembly 1 according to the sixth embodiment cannot achieve a zero gravity position.

[0209] In addition, since the first linkage mechanism 651 of the sixth embodiment adopts the same "four-link" linkage mechanism as the first linkage mechanism 251 of the second embodiment, the "four-link" linkage mechanism of the sixth embodiment will be more suitable for high-strength application scenarios. In other words, with the help of the first linkage mechanism 651 configured as a "four-link" linkage mechanism, the seat assembly according to the sixth embodiment of the present disclosure also has more superior strength performance.

[0210] Reference Figure 34a to Figure 34b , shows a seat assembly 1 according to a seventh embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein, Fig.34a The seat assembly 1 is shown with the outer covering removed to reveal the inner frame 700 in its original design position for supporting an occupant; Fig.34b Shows Fig.34a A schematic diagram of a linkage mechanism 750 of a seat assembly 1 is shown.

[0211] like Fig.34a and Fig.34b As shown, a linkage mechanism 750 of a seat assembly 1 according to a seventh embodiment of the present disclosure includes a first linkage mechanism 751 for the seat back 3 and a second linkage mechanism 752 for the seat back 2 .

[0212] The first linkage mechanism 751 is configured as a "single-link" linkage mechanism. The first linkage mechanism 751 may have substantially the same configuration and function as the first linkage mechanism 151 of the first embodiment. Therefore, all technical features described with reference to the first linkage mechanism 151 of the first embodiment are applicable to the first linkage mechanism 751 of the seventh embodiment. For the purpose of simplifying the description, they will not be described in detail here.

[0213] The second linkage mechanism 752 is constructed as a "four-bar" linkage mechanism. However, unlike the second linkage mechanism 552 of the fifth embodiment, the second linkage mechanism 752 of the seventh embodiment may include a first linkage member 7521 and a second linkage member 7522, the first linkage member 7521 including a restraining end 7521-1 and a movable end 7521-2, and the second linkage member 7522 including a first movable end 7522-1 and a second movable end 7522-2. An end 21 of the seat cushion 2 close to the seat back 3 (which may be connected via a support member or an extension member fixed at the end 21) and the restraining end 7521-1 of the first linkage member 7521 may be respectively connected as follows: Fig.34bThe seat assembly 1 is pivotally mounted on the vehicle floor at the positions A and C shown, or is pivotally mounted on a slide rail that can slide relative to the vehicle floor to move the seat assembly 1, or is pivotally mounted on a rotating component that can rotate relative to the vehicle floor to rotate the seat assembly 1 around the vertical direction. The other end 22 of the seat cushion 2 of the seat assembly 1 away from the seat back 3 is pivotally connected to the first movable end 7522-1 of the second linkage 7522, and the second movable end 7522-2 of the second linkage 7522 is pivotally connected to the movable end 7521-2 of the first linkage 7521. In this way, in this seventh embodiment, the first linkage 7521 and the second linkage 7522 of the second linkage mechanism 752, the seat cushion 2, and the component (vehicle floor, slide rail, or rotating component) on which the end 21 of the seat cushion 2 close to the seat back 3 and the restraining end 7521-1 of the first linkage 7521 are mounted constitute a so-called "four-bar" linkage mechanism.

[0214] In the seventh embodiment, the first linkage 7521 is configured as a zero-gravity linkage for achieving a zero-gravity position of the seat assembly 1, such as Fig.34b and 35b At least one cushion driving device can be used to drive the first linkage 7521 to pivot, so as to achieve the movement of the seat assembly 1 between the design position and the zero gravity position.

[0215] Similar to the previous embodiments, in the seventh embodiment, the second linkage mechanism 752 may include two first linkage members 7521 and two second linkage members 7522, which are respectively arranged on the left and right sides of the seat assembly 1. The two first linkage members 7521 may be configured to be able to move synchronously under the drive of the same cushion driving device, for example, by means of two recliners connected to each other, and move synchronously through the drive of a single motor.

[0216] In this seventh embodiment, the seat assembly 1 according to the present disclosure can only be in the design position (such as Fig.34a and Fig.34b ) and zero gravity position (as shown Fig.35a and Fig.35b The movement of the seat assembly 1 from the design position to the zero gravity position is substantially the same as the process described in conjunction with the third embodiment and the fourth embodiment. For the purpose of simplifying the description, it will not be repeated here.

[0217] Reference Figure 36a to Figure 36b , shows a seat assembly 1 according to an eighth embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein, Fig.36a The seat assembly 1 is shown with the outer covering removed to reveal the inner frame 800 in its original design position for supporting an occupant; Fig.36b Shows Fig.36aA schematic diagram of a linkage mechanism 850 of a seat assembly 1 is shown.

[0218] like Fig.36a and Fig.36b As shown, a linkage mechanism 850 of a seat assembly 1 according to an eighth embodiment of the present disclosure includes a first linkage mechanism 851 for the seat back 3 and a second linkage mechanism 852 for the seat back 2 .

[0219] The first linkage mechanism 851 is configured as a "four-bar linkage". The first linkage mechanism 851 may have substantially the same configuration and function as the first linkage mechanism 251 of the second embodiment. Therefore, all technical features described with reference to the first linkage mechanism 251 of the second embodiment are applicable to the first linkage mechanism 851 of the eighth embodiment. For the purpose of simplifying the description, they will not be described in detail here.

[0220] The second linkage mechanism 852 is configured as a "four-bar linkage". The second linkage mechanism 852 may have substantially the same configuration and function as the second linkage mechanism 752 of the seventh embodiment. Therefore, all technical features described with reference to the second linkage mechanism 752 of the seventh embodiment are applicable to the second linkage mechanism 852 of the eighth embodiment. For the purpose of simplifying the description, they will not be described in detail herein.

[0221] In this eighth embodiment, the seat assembly 1 according to the present disclosure can only be in the design position (such as Fig.36a and Fig.36b ) and zero gravity position (as shown Fig.37a and Figure 37b shown).

[0222] In addition, since the first linkage mechanism 851 of the eighth embodiment adopts the same "four-link" linkage mechanism as the first linkage mechanism 251 of the second embodiment, the "four-link" linkage mechanism of the eighth embodiment will be more suitable for high-strength application scenarios. In other words, with the help of the first linkage mechanism 851 configured as a "four-link" linkage mechanism, the seat assembly according to the eighth embodiment of the present disclosure also has more superior strength performance.

[0223] The above describes exemplary embodiments according to the present disclosure with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, it should be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes and modifications can be made to the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. All changes and modifications are included in the scope of protection of the present disclosure as defined by the claims. The present disclosure is defined by the appended claims, and the equivalents of these claims are also included.

Claims

1. A seat assembly for a motor vehicle, comprising: Seat cushions; Seat backs; and a linkage mechanism configured to move the seat cushion and the seat back to enable the seat assembly to move between at least two positions; wherein the linkage mechanism comprises a first linkage mechanism for the seat back and a second linkage mechanism for the seat cushion, the first linkage mechanism and the second linkage mechanism being configured to be driven independently relative to each other; wherein the first linkage mechanism comprises at least one restraining end and at least one movable end, and the first linkage mechanism is configured to be pivotable about a first pivoting portion disposed at a corresponding restraining end of the at least one restraining end of the first linkage mechanism; and In which, the bottom end of the seat back near the seat cushion is pivotally connected to a corresponding movable end of at least one movable end of the first linkage mechanism, so that the seat back can pivot relative to the first linkage mechanism around a second pivot portion arranged at the corresponding movable end of the first linkage mechanism.

2. The seat assembly according to claim 1, wherein: The restraining end of the first linkage mechanism is pivotally mounted on the vehicle floor, or is pivotally mounted on a slide rail that can slide relative to the vehicle floor to move the seat assembly, or is pivotally mounted on a rotating member that can rotate relative to the vehicle floor to rotate the seat assembly around a vertical direction; and / or The first linkage mechanism is configured to pivot about the first pivot portion under the drive of a first backrest driving device, and the seat back is configured to pivot about the second pivot portion under the drive of a second backrest driving device; Preferably, when the first backrest driving device and the second backrest driving device are not operated, the pivoting of the first linkage mechanism about the first pivoting portion and the pivoting of the seat back about the second pivoting portion are locked.

3. The seat assembly according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The second linkage mechanism comprises at least one restraining end and at least one movable end, the at least one restraining end of the second linkage mechanism is pivotally mounted on the vehicle floor, or pivotally mounted on the slide rail, or pivotally mounted on the rotating component, and a corresponding movable end of the at least one movable end of the second linkage mechanism is pivotally connected to the seat cushion; Preferably, the second linkage mechanism is configured to be capable of pivoting around a pivoting portion provided at a corresponding restraining end of the at least one restraining end of the second linkage mechanism under the drive of at least one cushion driving device; More preferably, when a corresponding seat cushion driving device among the at least one seat cushion driving device is not in operation, the second linkage mechanism is locked from pivoting about the pivoting portion at the corresponding restraining end thereof.

4. The seat assembly of claim 1, wherein: The first linkage mechanism is configured as a single-link linkage mechanism on each of the left and right sides of the seat assembly, the single-link linkage mechanism includes only a single linkage member, the linkage member includes a restraining end and a movable end, the restraining end of the linkage member is pivotally mounted on the vehicle floor, or is pivotally mounted on a slide rail that can slide relative to the vehicle floor to move the seat assembly, or is pivotally mounted on a rotating member that can rotate relative to the vehicle floor to rotate the seat assembly around a vertical direction, and the bottom end of the seat back near the seat cushion is pivotally connected to the movable end of the linkage member of the first linkage mechanism; Preferably, the linkage member of the first linkage mechanism comprises a first component and a second component, and the first component and the second component are fixed together to form the linkage member; Preferably, the seat assembly includes a first backrest drive device and a second backrest drive device, wherein the first backrest drive device drives the linkage member of the single-link linkage mechanism to pivot around the first pivot portion, and the second backrest drive device drives the seat back to pivot around the second pivot portion relative to the linkage member of the single-link linkage mechanism.

5. The seat assembly of claim 1, wherein: The first linkage mechanism is configured as a four-bar linkage mechanism on each of the left and right sides of the seat assembly, the four-bar linkage mechanism comprising a first linkage member, a second linkage member and a third linkage member, wherein the first linkage member comprises a restraining end and a movable end, the second linkage member comprises a restraining end and a movable end, the third linkage member comprises a first foot, a second foot and a third foot, Wherein, the restraining end of the first linkage and the restraining end of the second linkage are pivotally mounted on the vehicle floor, or pivotally mounted on a slide rail that can slide relative to the vehicle floor to move the seat assembly, or pivotally mounted on a rotating component that can rotate relative to the vehicle floor to rotate the seat assembly around a vertical direction, the movable end of the first linkage and the movable end of the second linkage are pivotally connected to the first foot and the second foot of the third linkage respectively, and wherein the bottom end of the seat back near the seat cushion is pivotally connected to the third foot of the third linkage; Preferably, the seat assembly includes a first backrest driving device and a second backrest driving device, the first backrest driving device drives at least one of the first linkage and the second linkage to pivot the first linkage and the second linkage around the first pivot portion at their respective constraint ends, and the second backrest driving device drives the seat back to pivot around the second pivot portion at the movable end of the third linkage.

6. A seat assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein: The second linkage mechanism includes a first linkage member and a second linkage member, wherein the first linkage member of the second linkage mechanism is configured as a slide plate, the slide plate includes a slide groove extending along its length direction and one end of the slide plate is fixed to the vehicle floor, the slide rail, or the rotating component, The second linkage member of the second linkage mechanism comprises a restraining end and a movable end, the restraining end of the second linkage member of the second linkage mechanism is pivotally mounted on the vehicle floor, on the slide rail, or on the rotating component, and wherein one end of the seat cushion close to the seat back is slidably mounted in the slide groove of the slide groove plate, and the other end away from the seat back is pivotally connected to the movable end of the second linkage member of the second linkage mechanism; Preferably, the second linkage member of the second linkage mechanism is configured to pivot around a pivot portion provided at a restraining end of the second linkage member of the second linkage mechanism under the drive of the cushion driving device, and when the second linkage member pivots, an end of the seat cushion close to the seat back slides in the slide groove of the slide groove plate; Preferably, the seat assembly is configured to be movable among a design position, a folded position, a lie-flat position and an easy entry position. In the design position, the seat back of the seat assembly is at a predetermined angle relative to the seat cushion for supporting an occupant; In the folded position, the seat back of the seat assembly is substantially overlapped with the seat cushion to increase the space of the motor vehicle; In the lie-flat position, the seat back of the seat assembly is substantially flush with the seat cushion, and In the easy entry position, the seat back of the seat assembly is pivoted toward the seat cushion by a predetermined angle relative to the design position and / or the seat cushion is moved forward by a predetermined distance relative to the design position to increase the space behind the seat assembly to facilitate entry and exit of the occupants.

7. A seat assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein: The second linkage mechanism includes a first linkage member, a second linkage member and a third linkage member, the first linkage member of the second linkage mechanism includes a restraining end and a movable end, the second linkage member of the second linkage mechanism includes a first movable end and a second movable end, and the third linkage member of the second linkage mechanism includes a restraining end and a movable end. Wherein, the restraining end of the first linkage member of the second linkage mechanism and the restraining end of the third linkage member of the second linkage mechanism are respectively pivotally mounted on the vehicle floor, the slide rail, or the rotating component, one end of the seat cushion close to the seat back is pivotally connected to the movable end of the first linkage member of the second linkage mechanism, and the other end away from the seat back is pivotally connected to the first movable end of the second linkage member of the second linkage mechanism, and the second movable end of the second linkage member of the second linkage mechanism is pivotally connected to the movable end of the third linkage member of the second linkage mechanism; Preferably, the seat assembly is configured to be movable among a design position, a high-profile position, a zero-gravity position, a folded position, a lie-flat position, and an easy-entry position. In the design position, the seat back of the seat assembly is at a predetermined angle relative to the seat cushion for supporting an occupant; In the high-profile position, the seat cushion of the seat assembly is raised or lowered by a predetermined height in the height direction compared to the design position; In the zero-gravity position, the seat assembly is adjusted to a designed zero-pressure state; In the folded position, the seat back of the seat assembly is substantially overlapped with the seat cushion to increase the space of the motor vehicle; In the lie-flat position, the seat back of the seat assembly is substantially flush with the seat cushion; and In the easy entry position, the seat back of the seat assembly is pivoted toward the seat cushion by a predetermined angle relative to the design position and / or the seat cushion is moved forward by a predetermined distance relative to the design position, so as to increase the space behind the seat assembly to facilitate entry and exit of the occupant; More preferably, one of the second linkage and the third linkage of the second linkage mechanism is configured as a zero-gravity linkage for achieving the zero-gravity position of the seat assembly; More preferably, the seat assembly comprises a first cushion driving device and a second cushion driving device, the first cushion driving device being used to drive the zero-gravity linkage to achieve the zero-gravity position, and the second cushion driving device being used to drive the first linkage of the second linkage mechanism to achieve other positions of the seat assembly except the zero-gravity position; More preferably, during the process of moving the seat assembly from the design position to the zero gravity position, the second seat cushion drive device locks the first linkage member of the second linkage mechanism to prevent it from moving; and during the process of moving the seat assembly from the design position to a position other than the zero gravity position, the first seat cushion drive device locks the zero gravity linkage member of the second linkage mechanism to prevent it from moving.

8. A seat assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein: The second linkage mechanism includes a first linkage member and a second linkage member, the first linkage member of the second linkage mechanism includes a restraining end and a movable end, the second linkage member of the second linkage mechanism includes a restraining end and a movable end, Wherein, the restraining end of the first linkage member of the second linkage mechanism and the restraining end of the second linkage member of the second linkage mechanism are respectively pivotally mounted on the vehicle floor, the slide rail, or the rotating component, and one end of the seat cushion close to the seat back is pivotally connected to the movable end of the first linkage member of the second linkage mechanism, and the other end away from the seat back is pivotally connected to the movable end of the second linkage member of the second linkage mechanism; Preferably, the seat assembly is configured to be movable among a design position, a high-profile position, a folded position, a lie-flat position and an easy-entry position. In the design position, the seat back of the seat assembly is at a predetermined angle relative to the seat cushion for supporting an occupant; In the high-profile position, the seat cushion of the seat assembly is raised or lowered by a predetermined height in the height direction compared to the design position; In the folded position, the seat back of the seat assembly is substantially overlapped with the seat cushion to increase the space of the motor vehicle; In the lie-flat position, the seat back of the seat assembly is substantially flush with the seat cushion; and In the easy entry position, the seat back of the seat assembly is pivoted toward the seat cushion by a predetermined angle relative to the design position and / or the seat cushion is moved forward by a predetermined distance relative to the design position, so as to increase the space behind the seat assembly to facilitate entry and exit of the occupant; More preferably, the first linkage member of the second linkage mechanism is configured to pivot around a pivot portion provided at a restraining end of the first linkage member of the second linkage mechanism under the drive of the seat cushion driving device.

9. A seat assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein: The second linkage mechanism includes a first linkage member and a second linkage member, the first linkage member of the second linkage mechanism includes a restraining end and a movable end, the second linkage member of the second linkage mechanism includes a first movable end and a second movable end, In which, the restraining end of the first linkage member of the second linkage mechanism and one end of the seat cushion close to the seat back are respectively pivotally mounted on the vehicle floor, the slide rail, or the rotating component, the other end of the seat cushion away from the seat back is pivotally connected to the first movable end of the second linkage member of the second linkage mechanism, and the second movable end of the second linkage member of the second linkage mechanism is pivotally connected to the movable end of the first linkage member of the second linkage mechanism.

10. The seat assembly of claim 9, wherein: The seat assembly is configured to be movable between a design position and a zero gravity position, In the design position, the seat back of the seat assembly is at a predetermined angle relative to the seat cushion for supporting an occupant; and In the zero-gravity position, the seat assembly is adjusted to a designed zero-pressure state; Preferably, the first linkage of the second linkage mechanism is configured as a zero-gravity linkage for achieving the zero-gravity position of the seat assembly.

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