Sliding device and method for assembling sliding device

Abstract

[Problem] To provide a sliding device that prevents undesired movement of a slider and a method for assembling the sliding device. [Solution] A sliding device (1) is provided with: a rail (11) having a plurality of engagement holes arranged in a row in the longitudinal direction; a slider 12 slidably supported by the rail; a gear box (20) including a spiral member (27) that engages the plurality of engagement holes and is fixed to the slider; and an electric motor 21 that rotates and drives the spiral member so as to slide the slider relative to the rail, in which the gearbox includes a rotation control device 55 configured to frictionally engage the spiral member to restrict rotation of the spiral member.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a sliding device and a method for assembling a sliding device. Background Art

[0002] Patent document 1 discloses a sliding device provided between a floor and a vehicle seat in a vehicle. The sliding device of Patent document 1 includes a track and a sliding member configured to slidably engage the track. In order to enable the sliding member to slide and move, the sliding device also includes a spiral component, a spiral engaging portion, and an electric motor, the spiral component being rotatably supported by the sliding member so that the spiral component is rotatable around an axis along the longitudinal direction of the track, the spiral engaging portion being formed in the track and configured to engage the spiral component, and the electric motor being used to rotate the spiral component. When the electric motor rotates the spiral component, the spiral component engaging the threaded engaging portion causes the sliding member to slidably move relative to the track. Prior art literature Patent Literature

[0003] Patent document 1: US2022 / 0080862A1 Summary of the invention The task to be accomplished by the present invention

[0004] The inventors of the present invention have found that in the slide device of Patent Document 1, when the electric motor is not running and the rotating shaft is allowed to rotate freely, the slide member can slidably move relative to the rail due to, for example, vibration. This causes a problem that the vehicle seat moves in a manner not intended by the user.

[0005] The present invention is proposed in view of the above problems in the prior art, and a main object of the present invention is to provide a sliding device and a method for assembling the sliding device that prevents an undesired rotation of a sliding member. How to complete the task

[0006] As a solution to the above-mentioned task, one aspect of the present invention provides a sliding device (1), comprising: a track (11) having a plurality of engaging holes (15) arranged in a row in the longitudinal direction; a sliding member (12) slidably supported by the track; a gear box (20) comprising a spiral component engaging the plurality of engaging holes and fixed to the sliding member; and an electric motor (21) that rotates and drives the spiral component so that the sliding member slides relative to the track, wherein the gear box comprises a rotation control device (55) configured to frictionally engage the spiral component to limit the rotation of the spiral component.

[0007] In this configuration, the rotation control device frictionally engages the spiral member to restrict the rotation of the spiral member. This prevents the spiral member from rotating unexpectedly; that is, the present disclosure provides a sliding device that prevents the sliding member from rotating unexpectedly.

[0008] Preferably, the above-mentioned sliding device can be further constructed so that the spiral component includes a cylindrical shaft (36) extending along a predetermined axis of the spiral component and an external threaded portion (37) having a spiral spiral cam (37A) on the outer circumference of the shaft, wherein the gear box includes a housing (26) constructed to rotatably support the spiral component, the housing having a plurality of side walls (41) opposite to the axial end face of the external threaded portion, and wherein the rotation control device presses the spiral component against a side wall on the first side which is one of the plurality of side walls to cause friction engagement between the spiral component and the side wall on the first side, thereby preventing the spiral component from rotating.

[0009] This configuration enables the spiral component to be frictionally engaged and prevented from moving.

[0010] Preferably, the above-mentioned sliding device can be further constructed so that the rotation control device includes a pushing device (59) and an extending device, and the extending device is pushed by the pushing force provided by the pushing device to further extend, so that the spiral component is pressed against the side wall on the first side and frictionally engaged with the side wall on the first side.

[0011] In this configuration, when the electric motor is operated, the extension device is extended, which causes the spiral member to be frictionally engaged and prevented from freely rotating.

[0012] Preferably, the above-mentioned sliding device can be further constructed so that the extension device includes two tubular parts (61, 63, 64), each tubular part has an inner hole through which the shaft passes, and the two tubular parts are arranged adjacent to each other, wherein each of the two tubular parts has an inclined surface (65), each inclined surface faces each other and is a spiral surface, which is inclined at the same angle relative to the axis of the spiral part, and wherein the pushing device pushes the extension device so that the two tubular parts rotate in opposite directions to each other, and the inclined surfaces of the two tubular parts contact and slide with each other, thereby causing the extension of the extension device.

[0013] In this configuration, the urging means urges the extending means to be extended, which causes the spiral member to be frictionally engaged and prevented from moving.

[0014] Preferably, the above-mentioned sliding device can be further constructed so that the extension device and the side wall on the second side each have a reverse inclined surface (76), the side wall on the second side is another one of the multiple side walls, and the respective reverse inclined surfaces face each other and are spiral surfaces, which are inclined at a reverse inclined angle from the respective inclined surfaces relative to the axis of the spiral component.

[0015] In this configuration, when the extension device is rotated so that the respective reverse inclined surfaces slide on each other, the extension device moves toward the first side wall. As a result, the extension device can be rotated to press the spiral member against the first side wall, so that the spiral member is frictionally engaged and prevented from moving.

[0016] Preferably, the above-mentioned sliding device can be further constructed so that the pushing device (59) includes two pushing components, and the two pushing components are connected to the housing and the corresponding tubular components, so that the pushing components push the two tubular components (67, 68) to rotate in opposite directions to each other.

[0017] In this configuration, the extension means can be extended to press the spiral member against the first side wall so that the spiral member is frictionally engaged and prevented from moving.

[0018] Preferably, the above-mentioned sliding device can be further constructed so that each of the two tubular components has a plurality of hooks (70), and the two pushing components are hooked on the plurality of hooks, wherein the outer shell has a plurality of through holes (75), so that at least one of the plurality of hooks of each of the two tubular components can pass through a corresponding through hole in the plurality of through holes, and wherein the two tubular components are visible through the plurality of through holes.

[0019] This configuration enables the pushing member to be coupled to the tubular member, and also enables the two tubular members to be visible from the outside.

[0020] Preferably, the above-mentioned sliding device can be further constructed so that the wall-side tubular component, which is one of the two tubular components, has a facing wall end surface facing the side wall on the second side and a stopper (78) protruding from the facing wall end surface, and the stopper is constructed to engage with the side wall on the second side to limit the rotation of the wall-side tubular component.

[0021] This configuration can restrict the rotation of the wall-side tubular member. This enables the electric motor to drive and rotate the spiral member.

[0022] Preferably, the above-mentioned sliding device may be further configured such that each of the two tubular components is disposed within the housing.

[0023] This configuration enables the gearbox to be made compact.

[0024] Preferably, the above-mentioned sliding device can be further constructed so that the gear box includes a driving gear (48) and a driven gear (49), the driving gear (48) rotates with the rotation of the rotating shaft of the electric motor, and the driven gear (49) is arranged on the spiral component and engages with the driving gear.

[0025] In this configuration, the power from the electric motor is transmitted to the spiral member. As a result, the power to move the slide relative to the track can be transmitted to the spiral member.

[0026] Preferably, the above-mentioned sliding device may be further configured so that the gear box has a tool hole, and a tool for rotating the driving gear can be inserted into the tool hole.

[0027] In this configuration, the tool can be used to rotate the drive gear, which is a bevel gear. Thus, when the electric motor is not running, the tool can be used to transfer power to the screw member.

[0028] As a solution to the above-mentioned task, another aspect of the present invention provides a method for assembling the above-mentioned sliding device, the method comprising: assembling the sliding member to the gear box and the electric motor; and assembling the sliding member to the track.

[0029] This configuration enables assembly of a sliding device that prevents undesired rotation of the slide.

[0030] WO2020 / 141600A1 discloses an electric sliding track, comprising: a track; a sliding member slidably disposed on the track; a spiral assembly comprising a spiral component rotatably supported by the sliding member; an electric motor for rotating the spiral component; and a threaded engaging portion formed in the track to engage the spiral component. The spiral component engaging the spiral engaging portion rotates, thereby moving the sliding member relative to the track. A seat cushion of a vehicle seat is connected to the sliding member.

[0031] In such an electric sliding track, an excessive load applied to the slider through the seat cushion may cause the spiral member and the electric motor to rotate, thereby moving the slider relative to the track.

[0032] These problems give rise to the task of providing an electric slide track capable of maintaining the position of a slide member against external loads and providing a vehicle seat capable of maintaining the position of a seat cushion against external loads.

[0033] As a solution to the above-mentioned task, one aspect of the present invention provides an electric sliding track (201), comprising: a track (211) provided with a spiral engaging portion (257, 258); a sliding member (212) slidably arranged on the track; a spiral component (235) rotatably supported by the sliding member and engaging the sliding member; and an electric motor (236) driving and rotating the spiral component, wherein the spiral component comprises: a connecting shaft (237) connected to an output shaft (236A) of the electric motor in an axially movable manner and rotating together with the output shaft; spiral components (238, 239) connected to the connecting shaft via gears (237A, 238B, 239B) so as to respond to the rotation of the connecting shaft and rotating, the threaded component engages with the threaded engaging portion (257, 258); a gear housing (241) for rotatably supporting the connecting shaft and the spiral component; an actuator (261) for moving the connecting shaft in the axial direction of the connecting shaft; a first engaging portion (262) arranged in the gear housing; and a second engaging portion (263) arranged on the connecting shaft, and wherein, when the connecting shaft is in a first position in its axial direction, the first engaging portion and the second engaging portion engage with each other, which limits the rotation of the connecting shaft relative to the gear housing, and when the connecting shaft is in a second position in its axial direction, the first engaging portion and the second engaging portion are separated from each other, which allows the connecting shaft to rotate relative to the gear housing.

[0034] In this configuration, when the connecting shaft is in the first position, the first engaging portion and the second engaging portion engage with each other, which restricts the rotation of the connecting shaft relative to the gear housing, thereby preventing the slide from moving relative to the track. Therefore, this configuration provides an electric slide track capable of maintaining the position of the slide against an external load.

[0035] The electric sliding track may be further constructed so that the screw assembly may have a pushing component (265) for pushing the connecting shaft to the first position.

[0036] In this configuration, when the actuator is not in operation, the urging member urges the connecting shaft to the first position, thereby restricting the rotation of the connecting shaft.

[0037] The above-mentioned electric sliding rail may be further configured such that the connecting shaft is provided with a flange (264A), and the actuator presses the flange in the axial direction of the connecting shaft.

[0038] In this configuration, the actuator can be placed at a transverse position to the connecting axis and parallel to the connecting axis, thereby allowing a space-saving placement of the actuator.

[0039] The above-mentioned electric sliding rail may be further configured such that the pushing member is connected to the flange and is disposed transversely to the actuator.

[0040] In this configuration, the urging member and the actuator can be arranged in a space-saving manner.

[0041] The above-mentioned electric slide rail may be further configured so that the actuator is a solenoid actuator capable of extending and retracting in the axial direction of the connecting shaft.

[0042] In this configuration, the actuator can be placed around the connecting shaft in a space-saving manner.

[0043] The above-mentioned electric sliding rail may be further configured such that the connecting shaft extends through the gear housing, and the flange is provided at an end of the connecting shaft opposite to the other end thereof on the side of the output shaft.

[0044] This construction allows the electric motor and the screw member to be placed close together. This prevents twisting of the connecting shaft.

[0045] The above-mentioned electric sliding track may be further configured such that the actuator is supported by the gear housing.

[0046] In this configuration, the gear housing can be used to support the actuator.

[0047] The above-mentioned electric sliding rail may be further configured so that the flange is rotatable relative to the connecting shaft and is immovable in the axial direction of the connecting shaft, and one end of the pushing member is coupled to the flange.

[0048] This configuration allows the pushing member to push the connecting shaft while the connecting shaft is rotating.

[0049] The above-mentioned electric sliding rail may be further configured so that the flange is rotatable relative to the connecting shaft and is immovable in the axial direction of the connecting shaft, and one end of the pushing member slidably contacts the flange.

[0050] This configuration allows the pushing member to push the connecting shaft while the connecting shaft is rotating.

[0051] The above-mentioned electric sliding rail may be further configured such that the pushing component is a coil spring disposed in the gear housing, and the connecting shaft passes through an inner side of the pushing component.

[0052] In this configuration, the pressing member can be placed in a space-saving manner.

[0053] Another aspect of the present invention provides a vehicle seat provided with the above-mentioned electric sliding track, wherein the track is coupled to a floor (203) of the vehicle, and the slide is coupled to the seat cushion (205).

[0054] This configuration provides a vehicle seat capable of maintaining the position of the seat cushion against external loads.

[0055] JP5186850B discloses a vehicle seat that enables a seat body to rotate relative to a floor to change the orientation of the seat body from forward to backward. A sliding device provided under a seat cushion enables the seat body to move in a front-rear direction relative to the floor. In addition, a rotating device provided between the sliding device and the floor enables the orientation of the seat body relative to the floor to be changed.

[0056] In recent years, there has been a growing trend toward the development of technology that allows autonomous driving of vehicles. Such vehicles need to allow the orientation of the seat body to be changed to change the layout of the seat body in the car interior according to the driving scene and other factors.

[0057] However, the proper front-rear position and the inclination angle of the seat body can be changed according to the body shape and preference of the occupant. As a result, when rotated, the seat body may contact another seat body, making it difficult to change the layout of the seat body.

[0058] This problem presents the task of providing a seat system and a method for controlling a seat, the seat system comprising a seat body which is rotatable about a vertical axis relative to a floor, the seat system and the method being constructed so that, when rotated, the seat body is prevented from coming into contact with objects located nearby.

[0059] One aspect of the present invention provides a seating system (301) comprising: a plurality of seat bodies (315) rotatably supported about a vertical axis (Z) extending in a vertical direction relative to a floor (313); a drive unit (317) that causes each of the plurality of seat bodies to rotate relative to the floor; a sensor (305) for acquiring information about an object located near each of the plurality of seat bodies; and a control unit (309) that controls each drive unit based on the information acquired by the sensor, wherein the control unit determines whether a seat body of any one of the plurality of seat bodies is rotatable in an interference-free manner based on the information acquired by the sensor, and when it is determined that the seat body is rotatable in an interference-free manner, allows the drive unit to rotate the seat body.

[0060] In this configuration, the seat system determines whether the seat body is rotatable in an interference-free manner based on information acquired by the sensor. This prevents the seat body from contacting other objects located nearby when the seat body is rotated.

[0061] Preferably, the above-mentioned seat system can be further constructed so that the driving unit includes a rotation driving unit (339) for rotating each of the multiple seat bodies relative to the floor and a sliding driving unit (335) for moving each of the multiple seat bodies parallel to the floor, and when it is determined that the seat body of any one of the multiple seat bodies cannot be rotated in an interference-free manner, the control unit causes the sliding driving unit to move the seat body parallel to the floor so that the seat body can rotate.

[0062] This configuration allows the seat body to be moved to a position where it is away from another object located nearby to such an extent that the seat body is prevented from contacting the object when the seat body is rotated. This prevents the seat body from contacting other objects located nearby when the seat body is rotated.

[0063] Preferably, the above-mentioned seat system may be further configured such that before the sliding drive unit completes the movement of the seat body, the control unit allows the rotation drive unit to rotate the seat body.

[0064] This configuration can reduce the time required to complete the rotation of the seat body.

[0065] Preferably, the above-mentioned seat system may be further configured such that, after the rotation drive unit completes the rotation of the seat body, the control unit causes the slide drive unit to move the seat body to a position where an occupant can sit in the seat body.

[0066] This configuration allows an occupant to sit in the seat body after rotating the seat body about the vertical axis.

[0067] Preferably, the above-mentioned seat system can be further constructed so that each of the multiple seat bodies includes: a seat cushion (319); and a seat back (321), which can be rotated relative to the seat cushion to tilt, wherein the drive unit includes a rotation drive unit (339) for rotating each of the multiple seat bodies relative to the floor and a tilt drive unit (347) for rotating the seat back relative to the seat cushion, and wherein, when it is determined that the seat body of any one of the multiple seat bodies cannot be rotated in an interference-free manner, the control unit causes the tilt drive unit to rotate the seat back relative to the seat cushion, thereby making the seat back upright.

[0068] This configuration allows the seat back to be moved to a position where it is away from another object located nearby to such an extent that the seat back is prevented from contacting the object. This prevents the seat body from contacting other objects located nearby when the seat body is rotated.

[0069] Preferably, the above-mentioned seat system may be further configured such that the control unit allows the rotation drive unit to rotate the seat body before the tilt drive unit completes the rotation of the seat back to the upright position.

[0070] This configuration can reduce the time required to complete the rotation of the seat body.

[0071] Preferably, the above-mentioned seat system may be further configured such that, after the rotation drive unit completes the rotation of the seat body, the control unit causes the reclining drive unit to rotate the seat back to a position at which an occupant can sit in the seat body.

[0072] This configuration allows the occupant to sit in the seat body after rotating the seat body about the vertical axis.

[0073] Preferably, the above-mentioned seat system can be further constructed so that each of the multiple seat bodies includes: a seat cushion (319), which is rotatably supported by the floor at its rear end; and a seat back (321), wherein the drive unit includes a rotation drive unit (339) for rotating each of the multiple seat bodies relative to the floor, and a flip-up drive unit (341) for rotating the seat cushion relative to the floor, and wherein, when it is determined based on information obtained by the sensor that the seat body of any one of the multiple seat bodies cannot be rotated in an interference-free manner, the control unit causes the flip-up drive unit to rotate the seat cushion so that the front end of the seat cushion is flipped upward, thereby enabling the seat body to rotate.

[0074] This configuration allows the seat cushion to be moved to a position where it is away from another object located nearby to such an extent that the seat cushion is prevented from contacting the object. This prevents the seat body from contacting other objects located nearby when the seat body is rotated.

[0075] Preferably, the above-mentioned seat system may be further configured such that the control unit allows the rotation drive unit to rotate the seat body before the tilting drive unit completes the rotation of the seat cushion.

[0076] This configuration can reduce the time required to complete the rotation of the seat body.

[0077] Preferably, the above-mentioned seat system may be further configured such that, after the rotation drive unit completes the rotation of the seat body, the control unit causes the tipping drive unit to rotate the seat cushion to a position at which an occupant can sit in the seat cushion.

[0078] This configuration allows the occupant to sit in the seat body after rotating the seat body about the vertical axis.

[0079] As a solution to the above-mentioned task to be accomplished, another aspect of the present invention provides a method for controlling a seat (303), wherein the seat has a plurality of seat bodies (315) placed on a floor (313), and the plurality of seat bodies are rotatable around a vertical axis (Z), wherein a control unit (309) for controlling the position and orientation of the plurality of seat bodies performs a plurality of operations on each of the plurality of seat bodies, and the plurality of operations include: obtaining information about objects located near each seat body from sensors (305) arranged on the plurality of seat bodies; determining whether each seat body can be rotated in an interference-free manner based on the information obtained from the sensor; and when it is determined that the seat body can be rotated in an interference-free manner, allowing a drive unit (317) to rotate each seat body.

[0080] In this configuration, the method is configured to determine whether the seat body is rotatable in an interference-free manner based on information acquired by the sensor. This prevents the seat body from coming into contact with other objects located nearby when the seat body is rotated.

[0081] Preferably, the above method can be further constructed such that the driving unit includes a rotation driving unit (339) for rotating each of the multiple seat bodies relative to the floor and a sliding driving unit (335) for moving each of the multiple seat bodies parallel to the floor, and when it is determined that the seat body of any one of the multiple seat bodies cannot be rotated in an interference-free manner, the control unit causes the sliding driving unit to move the seat body parallel to the floor so that the seat body can rotate.

[0082] This configuration allows the seat body to be moved to a position where it is away from another object located nearby to such an extent that the seat body is prevented from contacting the object when the seat body is rotated. This prevents the seat body from contacting other objects located nearby when the seat body is rotated.

[0083] Preferably, the above method may be further configured such that, before the sliding drive unit completes the movement of the seat body, the control unit allows the rotation drive unit to rotate the seat body.

[0084] This configuration can reduce the time required to complete the rotation of the seat body.

[0085] Preferably, the above method may be further configured such that, after the rotation drive unit completes the rotation of the seat body, the control unit causes the slide drive unit to move the seat body to a position where an occupant can sit in the seat body.

[0086] This configuration allows the occupant to sit in the seat body after rotating the seat body about the vertical axis.

[0087] Preferably, the above method can be further constructed such that each of the multiple seat bodies includes: a seat cushion (319); and a seat back (321), which can be rotated relative to the seat cushion to tilt, wherein the drive unit includes a rotation drive unit (339) for rotating each of the multiple seat bodies relative to the floor, and a tilt drive unit (347) for rotating the seat back relative to the seat cushion, and wherein, when it is determined that the seat body of any one of the multiple seat bodies cannot be rotated in an interference-free manner, the control unit causes the tilt drive unit to rotate the seat back relative to the seat cushion, thereby making the seat back upright.

[0088] This configuration allows the seat back to be moved to a position where it is away from another object located nearby to such an extent that the seat back is prevented from contacting the object. This prevents the seat body from contacting other objects located nearby when the seat body is rotated.

[0089] Preferably, the above method may be further configured such that, before the tilt drive unit completes the rotation of the seat back to the upright position, the control unit allows the rotation drive unit to rotate the seat body.

[0090] This configuration can reduce the time required to complete the rotation of the seat body.

[0091] Preferably, the above method may be further configured such that, after the rotation drive unit completes the rotation of the seat body, the control unit causes the tilt drive unit to rotate the seat back to a position at which an occupant can sit in the seat body.

[0092] This configuration allows the occupant to sit in the seat body after rotating the seat body about the vertical axis.

[0093] Preferably, the above method can be further constructed such that each of the multiple seat bodies includes: a seat cushion (319) which is rotatably supported by the floor at its rear end; and a seat back (321), wherein the drive unit includes a rotation drive unit (339) for rotating each of the multiple seat bodies relative to the floor, and a flip-up drive unit (341) for rotating the seat cushion relative to the floor, and wherein, when it is determined based on information obtained by the sensor that the seat body of any one of the multiple seat bodies cannot be rotated in an interference-free manner, the control unit causes the flip-up drive unit to rotate the seat cushion so that the front end of the seat cushion flips upward, thereby enabling the seat body to rotate.

[0094] This configuration allows the seat cushion to be moved to a position where it is away from another object located nearby to such an extent that the seat cushion is prevented from contacting the object. This prevents the seat body from contacting other objects located nearby when the seat body is rotated.

[0095] Preferably, the above method may be further configured such that, before the tilting drive unit completes the rotation of the seat cushion, the control unit allows the rotation drive unit to rotate the seat body.

[0096] This configuration can reduce the time required to complete the rotation of the seat body.

[0097] Preferably, the above method may be further configured such that, after the rotation drive unit completes the rotation of the seat body, the control unit causes the tipping drive unit to rotate the seat cushion to a position at which an occupant can sit in the seat cushion.

[0098] This configuration allows the occupant to sit in the seat body after rotating the seat body about the vertical axis. Effects of the Invention

[0099] As a solution to the above-mentioned task, one aspect of the present invention provides a sliding device, comprising: a track having a plurality of engaging holes arranged in a row in a longitudinal direction; a sliding member slidably supported by the track; a gear box comprising a spiral component that engages with the plurality of engaging holes and is fixed to the sliding member; and an electric motor that rotates and drives the spiral component so that the sliding member slides relative to the track, wherein the gear box comprises a rotation control device, and the rotation control device is constructed to frictionally engage with the spiral component to limit the rotation of the spiral component.

[0100] In this configuration, the rotation control device frictionally engages the spiral member to restrict the rotation of the spiral member. This prevents the spiral member from rotating unexpectedly; that is, the present disclosure provides a sliding device that prevents the sliding member from rotating unexpectedly.

[0101] Preferably, the above-mentioned sliding device can be further constructed so that the spiral component includes a cylindrical shaft extending along a predetermined axis of the spiral component and an external threaded portion with a spiral spiral cam on the outer circumference of the shaft, wherein the gear box includes a shell constructed to rotatably support the spiral component, the shell having a plurality of side walls opposite to the axial end face of the external threaded portion, and wherein the rotation control device presses the spiral component against a side wall on the first side which is one of the plurality of side walls to cause friction engagement between the spiral component and the side wall on the first side, thereby preventing the spiral component from rotating.

[0102] This configuration enables the spiral component to be frictionally engaged and prevented from moving.

[0103] Preferably, the above-mentioned sliding device can be further constructed so that the rotation control device includes a pushing device and an extending device, and the extending device is pushed by the pushing force provided by the pushing device to further extend, so that the spiral component is pressed against the side wall on the first side and frictionally engaged with the side wall on the first side.

[0104] In this configuration, when the electric motor is operated, the extension device is extended, which causes the spiral member to be frictionally engaged and prevented from freely rotating.

[0105] Preferably, the above-mentioned sliding device can be further constructed so that the extension device includes two tubular parts, each tubular part has an inner hole through which the shaft passes, and the two tubular parts are arranged adjacent to each other, wherein each of the two tubular parts has an inclined surface, the respective inclined surfaces face each other and are spiral surfaces, which are inclined at the same angle relative to the axis of the spiral part, and wherein the pushing device pushes the extension device so that the two tubular parts rotate in opposite directions to each other and the inclined surfaces of the two tubular parts contact and slide with each other, thereby causing extension of the extension device.

[0106] In this configuration, the urging means urges the extending means to be extended, which causes the spiral member to be frictionally engaged and prevented from moving.

[0107] Preferably, the above-mentioned sliding device can be further constructed so that the extension device and the side wall on the second side each have a reverse inclined surface, the side wall on the second side is another one of the multiple side walls, and the respective reverse inclined surfaces face each other and are spiral surfaces, which are inclined from the respective inclined surfaces at a reverse inclined angle relative to the axis of the spiral component.

[0108] In this configuration, when the extension device is rotated so that the respective reverse inclined surfaces slide on each other, the extension device moves toward the first side wall. As a result, the extension device can be rotated to press the spiral member against the first side wall, so that the spiral member is frictionally engaged and prevented from moving.

[0109] Preferably, the above-mentioned sliding device may be further configured such that the pushing device includes two pushing components, the two pushing components being coupled to the housing and the corresponding tubular components such that the pushing components push the two tubular components to rotate in opposite directions to each other.

[0110] In this configuration, the extension means can be extended to press the spiral member against the first side wall so that the spiral member is frictionally engaged and prevented from moving.

[0111] Preferably, the above-mentioned sliding device can be further constructed so that each of the two tubular parts has a plurality of hooks, and the two pushing parts are hooked on the plurality of hooks, wherein the outer shell has a plurality of through holes, so that at least one of the plurality of hooks of each of the two tubular parts can pass through a corresponding through hole in the plurality of through holes, and wherein the two tubular parts are visible through the plurality of through holes.

[0112] This configuration enables the pushing member to be coupled to the tubular member, and also enables the two tubular members to be visible from the outside.

[0113] Preferably, the above-mentioned sliding device can be further constructed so that the wall-side tubular component, which is one of the two tubular components, has a facing wall end surface facing the side wall on the second side and a stopper protruding from the facing wall end surface, and the stopper is constructed to engage with the side wall on the second side to limit the rotation of the wall-side tubular component.

[0114] This configuration can restrict the rotation of the wall-side tubular member. This enables the electric motor to drive and rotate the spiral member.

[0115] Preferably, the above-mentioned sliding device may be further configured such that each of the two tubular components is disposed within the housing.

[0116] This configuration enables the gearbox to be made compact.

[0117] Preferably, the sliding device may be further configured such that the gear box includes a driving gear and a driven gear, the driving gear rotates as the rotating shaft of the electric motor rotates, and the driven gear is disposed on the spiral component and engaged with the driving gear.

[0118] In this configuration, the power from the electric motor is transmitted to the spiral member. As a result, the power to move the slide relative to the track can be transmitted to the spiral member.

[0119] Preferably, the above-mentioned sliding device may be further configured so that the gear box has a tool hole, and a tool for rotating the driving gear can be inserted into the tool hole.

[0120] In this configuration, the tool can be used to rotate the drive gear, which is a bevel gear. Thus, when the electric motor is not running, the tool can be used to transfer power to the screw member.

[0121] As a solution to the above-mentioned task, another aspect of the present invention provides a method for assembling the above-mentioned sliding device, the method comprising: assembling the sliding member to the gear box and the electric motor; and assembling the sliding member to the track.

[0122] This configuration enables assembly of a sliding device that prevents undesired rotation of the slide.

[0123] As a solution to the above-mentioned task, one aspect of the present invention provides an electric sliding track (201), comprising: a track (211) provided with a spiral engaging portion (257, 258); a sliding member (212) slidably arranged on the track; a spiral component (235) rotatably supported by the sliding member and engaging the sliding member; and an electric motor (236) driving and rotating the spiral component, wherein the spiral component comprises: a connecting shaft (237) connected to an output shaft (236A) of the electric motor in an axially movable manner and rotating together with the output shaft; spiral components (238, 239) connected to the connecting shaft via gears (237A, 238B, 239B) so as to respond to the rotation of the connecting shaft and rotates; the threaded component engages with the threaded engaging portion (257, 258); a gear housing (241) for rotatably supporting the connecting shaft and the spiral component; an actuator (261) that moves the connecting shaft in the axial direction of the connecting shaft; a first engaging portion (262) that is arranged in the gear housing; and a second engaging portion (263) that is arranged on the connecting shaft, and wherein, when the connecting shaft is in a first position in its axial direction, the first engaging portion and the second engaging portion engage with each other, which limits the rotation of the connecting shaft relative to the gear housing, and when the connecting shaft is in a second position in its axial direction, the first engaging portion and the second engaging portion are separated from each other, which allows the connecting shaft to rotate relative to the gear housing.

[0124] In this configuration, when the connecting shaft is in the first position, the first engaging portion and the second engaging portion engage with each other, which restricts the rotation of the connecting shaft relative to the gear housing, thereby preventing the slide from moving relative to the track. Therefore, this configuration provides an electric slide track capable of maintaining the position of the slide against an external load.

[0125] The electric sliding track may be further constructed so that the screw assembly may have a pushing component (265) for pushing the connecting shaft to the first position.

[0126] In this configuration, when the actuator is not in operation, the urging member urges the connecting shaft to the first position, thereby restricting the rotation of the connecting shaft.

[0127] The above-mentioned electric sliding rail may be further configured such that the connecting shaft is provided with a flange (264A), and the actuator presses the flange in the axial direction of the connecting shaft.

[0128] In this configuration, the actuator can be placed at a transverse position to the connecting axis and parallel to the connecting axis, thereby allowing a space-saving placement of the actuator.

[0129] The above-mentioned electric sliding rail may be further configured such that the pushing member is connected to the flange and is disposed transversely to the actuator.

[0130] In this configuration, the urging member and the actuator can be arranged in a space-saving manner.

[0131] The above-mentioned electric slide rail may be further configured so that the actuator is a solenoid actuator capable of extending and retracting in the axial direction of the connecting shaft.

[0132] In this configuration, the actuator can be placed around the connecting shaft in a space-saving manner.

[0133] The above-mentioned electric sliding rail may be further configured such that the connecting shaft extends through the gear housing, and the flange is provided at an end of the connecting shaft opposite to the other end thereof on the side of the output shaft.

[0134] This construction allows the electric motor and the screw member to be placed close together. This prevents twisting of the connecting shaft.

[0135] The above-mentioned electric sliding track may be further configured such that the actuator is supported by the gear housing.

[0136] In this configuration, the gear housing can be used to support the actuator.

[0137] The above-mentioned electric sliding rail may be further configured so that the flange is rotatable relative to the connecting shaft and is immovable in the axial direction of the connecting shaft, and one end of the pushing member is coupled to the flange.

[0138] This configuration allows the pushing member to push the connecting shaft while the connecting shaft is rotating.

[0139] The above-mentioned electric sliding rail may be further configured so that the flange is rotatable relative to the connecting shaft and is immovable in the axial direction of the connecting shaft, and one end of the pushing member slidably contacts the flange.

[0140] This configuration allows the pushing member to push the connecting shaft while the connecting shaft is rotating.

[0141] The above-mentioned electric sliding rail may be further configured such that the pushing component is a coil spring disposed in the gear housing, and the connecting shaft passes through an inner side of the pushing component.

[0142] In this configuration, the pressing member can be placed in a space-saving manner.

[0143] Another aspect of the present invention provides a vehicle seat provided with the above-mentioned electric sliding track, wherein the sliding track is coupled to a floor (203) of the vehicle, and the sliding member is coupled to the seat cushion (205).

[0144] This configuration provides a vehicle seat capable of maintaining the position of the seat cushion against external loads.

[0145] One aspect of the present invention provides a seating system (301) comprising: a plurality of seat bodies (315) rotatably supported about a vertical axis (Z) extending in a vertical direction relative to a floor (313); a drive unit (317) that causes each of the plurality of seat bodies to rotate relative to the floor; a sensor (305) for acquiring information about an object located near each of the plurality of seat bodies; and a control unit (309) that controls each drive unit based on the information acquired by the sensor, wherein the control unit determines whether a seat body of any one of the plurality of seat bodies is rotatable in an interference-free manner based on the information acquired by the sensor, and when it is determined that the seat body is rotatable in an interference-free manner, allows the drive unit to rotate the seat body.

[0146] In this configuration, the seat system determines whether the seat body is rotatable in an interference-free manner based on information acquired by the sensor. This prevents the seat body from contacting other objects located nearby when the seat body is rotated.

[0147] Preferably, the above-mentioned seat system can be further constructed so that the driving unit includes a rotation driving unit (339) for rotating each of the multiple seat bodies relative to the floor and a sliding driving unit (335) for moving each of the multiple seat bodies parallel to the floor, and when it is determined that the seat body of any one of the multiple seat bodies cannot be rotated in an interference-free manner, the control unit causes the sliding driving unit to move the seat body parallel to the floor so that the seat body can rotate.

[0148] This configuration allows the seat body to be moved to a position where it is away from another object located nearby to such an extent that the seat body is prevented from contacting the object when the seat body is rotated. This prevents the seat body from contacting other objects located nearby when the seat body is rotated.

[0149] Preferably, the above-mentioned seat system may be further configured such that before the sliding drive unit completes the movement of the seat body, the control unit allows the rotation drive unit to rotate the seat body.

[0150] This configuration can reduce the time required to complete the rotation of the seat body.

[0151] Preferably, the above-mentioned seat system may be further configured such that, after the rotation drive unit completes the rotation of the seat body, the control unit causes the slide drive unit to move the seat body to a position where an occupant can sit in the seat body.

[0152] This configuration allows an occupant to sit in the seat body after rotating the seat body about the vertical axis.

[0153] Preferably, the above-mentioned seat system can be further constructed so that each of the multiple seat bodies includes: a seat cushion (319); and a seat back (321), which can be rotated relative to the seat cushion to tilt, wherein the drive unit includes a rotation drive unit (339) for rotating each of the multiple seat bodies relative to the floor and a tilt drive unit (347) for rotating the seat back relative to the seat cushion, and wherein, when it is determined that the seat body of any one of the multiple seat bodies cannot be rotated in an interference-free manner, the control unit causes the tilt drive unit to rotate the seat back relative to the seat cushion, thereby making the seat back upright.

[0154] This configuration allows the seat back to be moved to a position where it is away from another object located nearby to such an extent that the seat back is prevented from contacting the object. This prevents the seat body from contacting other objects located nearby when the seat body is rotated.

[0155] Preferably, the above-mentioned seat system may be further configured such that the control unit allows the rotation drive unit to rotate the seat body before the tilt drive unit completes the rotation of the seat back to the upright position.

[0156] This configuration can reduce the time required to complete the rotation of the seat body.

[0157] Preferably, the above-mentioned seat system may be further configured such that, after the rotation drive unit completes the rotation of the seat body, the control unit causes the reclining drive unit to rotate the seat back to a position at which an occupant can sit in the seat body.

[0158] This configuration allows the occupant to sit in the seat body after rotating the seat body about the vertical axis.

[0159] Preferably, the above-mentioned seat system can be further constructed so that each of the multiple seat bodies includes: a seat cushion (319), which is rotatably supported by the floor at its rear end; and a seat back (321), wherein the drive unit includes a rotation drive unit (339) for rotating each of the multiple seat bodies relative to the floor, and a flip-up drive unit (341) for rotating the seat cushion relative to the floor, and wherein, when it is determined based on information obtained by the sensor that the seat body of any one of the multiple seat bodies cannot be rotated in an interference-free manner, the control unit causes the flip-up drive unit to rotate the seat cushion so that the front end of the seat cushion is flipped upward, thereby enabling the seat body to rotate.

[0160] This configuration allows the seat cushion to be moved to a position where it is away from another object located nearby to such an extent that the seat cushion is prevented from contacting the object. This prevents the seat body from contacting other objects located nearby when the seat body is rotated.

[0161] Preferably, the above-mentioned seat system may be further configured such that the control unit allows the rotation drive unit to rotate the seat body before the tilting drive unit completes the rotation of the seat cushion.

[0162] This configuration can reduce the time required to complete the rotation of the seat body.

[0163] Preferably, the above-mentioned seat system may be further configured such that, after the rotation drive unit completes the rotation of the seat body, the control unit causes the tipping drive unit to rotate the seat cushion to a position at which an occupant can sit in the seat cushion.

[0164] This configuration allows the occupant to sit in the seat body after rotating the seat body about the vertical axis.

[0165] As a solution to the above-mentioned task to be accomplished, another aspect of the present invention provides a method for controlling a seat (303), wherein the seat has a plurality of seat bodies (315) placed on a floor (313), and the plurality of seat bodies are rotatable around a vertical axis (Z), wherein a control unit (309) for controlling the position and orientation of the plurality of seat bodies performs a plurality of operations on each of the plurality of seat bodies, and the plurality of operations include: obtaining information about objects located near each seat body from sensors (305) arranged on the plurality of seat bodies; determining whether each seat body can be rotated in an interference-free manner based on the information obtained from the sensor; and when it is determined that the seat body can be rotated in an interference-free manner, allowing a drive unit (317) to rotate each seat body.

[0166] In this configuration, the method is configured to determine whether the seat body is rotatable in an interference-free manner based on information acquired by the sensor. This prevents the seat body from coming into contact with other objects located nearby when the seat body is rotated.

[0167] Preferably, the above method can be further constructed such that the driving unit includes a rotation driving unit (339) for rotating each of the multiple seat bodies relative to the floor and a sliding driving unit (335) for moving each of the multiple seat bodies parallel to the floor, and when it is determined that the seat body of any one of the multiple seat bodies cannot be rotated in an interference-free manner, the control unit causes the sliding driving unit to move the seat body parallel to the floor so that the seat body can rotate.

[0168] This configuration allows the seat body to be moved to a position where it is away from another object located nearby to such an extent that the seat body is prevented from contacting the object when the seat body is rotated. This prevents the seat body from contacting other objects located nearby when the seat body is rotated.

[0169] Preferably, the above method may be further configured such that, before the sliding drive unit completes the movement of the seat body, the control unit allows the rotation drive unit to rotate the seat body.

[0170] This configuration can reduce the time required to complete the rotation of the seat body.

[0171] Preferably, the above method may be further configured such that, after the rotation drive unit completes the rotation of the seat body, the control unit causes the slide drive unit to move the seat body to a position where an occupant can sit in the seat body.

[0172] This configuration allows the occupant to sit in the seat body after rotating the seat body about the vertical axis.

[0173] Preferably, the above method can be further constructed such that each of the multiple seat bodies includes: a seat cushion (319); and a seat back (321), which can be rotated relative to the seat cushion to tilt, wherein the drive unit includes a rotation drive unit (339) for rotating each of the multiple seat bodies relative to the floor, and a tilt drive unit (347) for rotating the seat back relative to the seat cushion, and wherein, when it is determined that the seat body of any one of the multiple seat bodies cannot be rotated in an interference-free manner, the control unit causes the tilt drive unit to rotate the seat back relative to the seat cushion, thereby making the seat back upright.

[0174] This configuration allows the seat back to be moved to a position where it is away from another object located nearby to such an extent that the seat back is prevented from contacting the object. This prevents the seat body from contacting other objects located nearby when the seat body is rotated.

[0175] Preferably, the above method may be further configured such that, before the tilt drive unit completes the rotation of the seat back to the upright position, the control unit allows the rotation drive unit to rotate the seat body.

[0176] This configuration can reduce the time required to complete the rotation of the seat body.

[0177] Preferably, the above method may be further configured such that, after the rotation drive unit completes the rotation of the seat body, the control unit causes the tilt drive unit to rotate the seat back to a position at which an occupant can sit in the seat body.

[0178] This configuration allows the occupant to sit in the seat body after rotating the seat body about the vertical axis.

[0179] Preferably, the above method can be further constructed such that each of the multiple seat bodies includes: a seat cushion (319) which is rotatably supported by the floor at its rear end; and a seat back (321), wherein the drive unit includes a rotation drive unit (339) for rotating each of the multiple seat bodies relative to the floor, and a flip-up drive unit (341) for rotating the seat cushion relative to the floor, and wherein, when it is determined based on information obtained by the sensor that the seat body of any one of the multiple seat bodies cannot be rotated in an interference-free manner, the control unit causes the flip-up drive unit to rotate the seat cushion so that the front end of the seat cushion flips upward, thereby enabling the seat body to rotate.

[0180] This configuration allows the seat cushion to be moved to a position where it is away from another object located nearby to such an extent that the seat cushion is prevented from contacting the object. This prevents the seat body from contacting other objects located nearby when the seat body is rotated.

[0181] Preferably, the above method may be further configured such that, before the tilting drive unit completes the rotation of the seat cushion, the control unit allows the rotation drive unit to rotate the seat body.

[0182] This configuration can reduce the time required to complete the rotation of the seat body.

[0183] Preferably, the above method may be further configured such that, after the rotation drive unit completes the rotation of the seat body, the control unit causes the tipping drive unit to rotate the seat cushion to a position at which an occupant can sit in the seat cushion.

[0184] This configuration allows the occupant to sit in the seat body after rotating the seat body about the vertical axis. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0185] Figure 1 is a structural diagram of a vehicle seat according to a first embodiment of the present invention; Figure 2 is a perspective view of an electrically driven sliding track of a first embodiment; Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of an electrically driven sliding track of a first embodiment; Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of the track; Figure 5 is a perspective view of the sliding device; Figure 6 This is an exploded perspective view of the sliding device. Figure 7is a top view of the gearbox with the cover removed; Figure 8 is a side view of the gearbox with the cover removed; Fig. 9 is an exploded perspective view of the tubular component; Fig.10 is along Figure 8 A cross-sectional view of the gearbox with a cover taken along line XX in FIG. Fig.11 It is a top view of the gearbox; Fig.12 include Fig.12 (A), 12(B) and 12(C), where Fig.12 (A) is a top view of a gearbox mounted to a fixed bracket on which a damper is provided, Fig.12 (B) is a perspective view of the tool. Fig.12 (C) is an enlarged view of the area at and around the tool hole in a modified form of the gearbox; Fig.13 is an illustration showing how a tool is inserted into a tool hole; Fig.14 include Fig.14 (A) and 14(B), where Fig.14 (A) is an explanatory diagram showing the movement of the first and second tubular members when the spiral member rotates clockwise when viewed from the second side toward the first side, and Fig.14 (B) is an explanatory diagram showing the movement of the first and second tubular members when the spiral member rotates counterclockwise when viewed from the second side toward the first side; Fig.15 is a side view of the interior of a vehicle in which a sliding device is provided according to a second embodiment of the present invention; Fig.16 is a perspective view of a sliding track of a second embodiment; Fig.17 is a cross-sectional view of a sliding track of a second embodiment; Fig.18 is a cross-sectional view of the track; Fig.19 is a perspective view of a slide locking device of a second embodiment; Fig. 20 is an exploded perspective view of a slide locking device of a second embodiment; Fig.21 include Fig.21 (A) and 21 (B), showing the slide track when the operating member is in its initial position, wherein Fig.21 (A) is a cross-sectional view of the sliding track. Fig.12 (B) is caused by Fig.21 (A) is an enlarged view of the area defined by the double-dashed line; Fig. 22 is a cross-sectional view of the slide track when the operating member is in its inserted position; Fig.23 include Fig.23 (A) and 23 (B), showing the slide rail when the operating member is in its pushed-in position, wherein Fig.23 (A) is a cross-sectional view of the sliding track. Fig.23 (B) is caused by Fig.23 (A) is an enlarged view of the area defined by the double-dashed line; Fig.24 include Fig.24 (A) and Fig.24 (B), where Fig.24 (A) shows a locking member according to one embodiment, and Fig.24 (B) shows a modified form of the locking component; Fig.25 is an explanatory diagram showing how to assemble a modified form of the locking component; Fig.26 is a structural diagram of a vehicle seat including an electrically driven sliding track according to a third embodiment of the present invention; Fig. 27 is a perspective view of an electrically driven sliding track of a third embodiment; Fig.28 is along Fig. 27 A cross-sectional view of the electrically driven sliding track taken along line XVIII-XVIII in FIG. Fig.29 is a cross-sectional view of the track; Fig.30 is a perspective view of the electric motor and threaded assembly; Fig.31 is a perspective view of a threaded assembly; Fig.32 is an illustrative diagram showing the screw assembly when the connector is in its first position; Fig.33 is an illustrative diagram showing the screw assembly when the connector is in its second position; Fig.34 is an explanatory diagram showing the first and second engaging portions; Fig.35 is an explanatory diagram showing a control system for an electrically driven sliding rail; Fig.36 is an explanatory diagram showing a modified form of the first and second engaging portions; Fig.37 is an explanatory diagram showing another modified form of the first and second engaging portions; Fig.38is an explanatory diagram showing a screw assembly according to a first modification of the third embodiment; Fig.39 is an explanatory diagram showing a screw assembly according to a second modification of the third embodiment; Fig.40 is an explanatory diagram showing a screw assembly according to a third modification of the third embodiment; Fig.41 is an explanatory diagram showing a screw assembly according to a fourth modification of the third embodiment; Fig.42 is an explanatory diagram showing a screw assembly according to a fifth modification of the third embodiment; Fig.43 is an explanatory diagram showing a screw assembly according to a sixth modification of the third embodiment; Fig.44 is a perspective view of a vehicle interior of a vehicle in which a seat system according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention is installed; Fig.45 Includes top and side views Fig.45 (A) and 45(B), showing the vehicle interior of a vehicle in which the seat system according to the fourth embodiment is installed; Fig.46 is a block diagram of the seat system; Fig.47 include Fig.47 (A), 47(B) and 47(C), which are explanatory diagrams showing how the slide drive unit, the tilt drive unit and the rotation drive unit change the position and orientation of the vehicle body seat, respectively; Fig.48 include Fig.48 (A), 48(B) and 48(C), which are explanatory diagrams showing how the tip-up drive unit, the hinge drive unit and the footrest drive unit change the position and orientation of the vehicle body seat, respectively; Fig.49 is a flow chart showing a switching operation; Fig.50 include Fig.50 (A), 50(B) and 50(C), which are explanatory diagrams showing the movement and deformation of the seat body when the operation mode of the seat system is switched from the relaxation mode to the normal mode; Fig.51 include Fig.51 (A), 51(B) and 51(C), which are explanatory diagrams showing the movement and deformation of the seat body when the operation mode of the seat system is switched from the relaxation mode to the normal mode; Fig.52 Included are a perspective view showing the frame of the seat body with the headrest removed, and an enlarged view of the area defined by the double-dashed line. Fig.53is a perspective view showing a cushion frame and a backrest frame when the seat frame is in a pushed-up position; Fig.54 is a perspective view showing an electric motor bracket assembled with an electric motor and a conversion box when viewed from the outside of a seat; Fig.55 is a perspective view showing a portion of a left backrest frame; and Fig.56 is a perspective view showing the pinion gear, sector gear and support bracket. Specific embodiments

[0186] The sliding device according to the present invention is disposed between two structures and is used to slidably couple one of the two structures to the other. For example, the sliding device of the present invention is disposed between a floor and a seat of a vehicle and is used to slidably couple the seat to the floor. In other cases, the sliding device of the present invention may be disposed between a base and a workpiece fixture and is used to slidably couple the workpiece fixture to the base.

[0187] Embodiments of the present invention will be described below. Specifically, an example in which the sliding device of the present invention is provided between a floor and a seat in a vehicle will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0188] like Figure 1 As shown, a slide device 1 is provided between a floor 2 and a vehicle seat 3 in a vehicle. The vehicle seat 3 includes a seat cushion 5 for supporting the buttocks of an occupant and a seat back 6 extending upward from the rear of the seat cushion 5 and supporting the back of the occupant. The slide device 1 is provided between the floor 2 and the seat cushion 5, and slidably supports the seat cushion 5 with respect to the floor 2. A cover member 7 is provided on a side of the seat cushion 5 to cover a gap between the seat cushion 5 and the floor 2.

[0189] like Figure 2 As shown, the sliding device 1 includes left and right rails 11 extending in the front-rear direction and left and right slides 12 slidably supported on the left and right rails 11, respectively. The extension direction of the rail 11 may or may not coincide with the front-rear direction of the vehicle. In other words, the direction along which the sliding device is installed in the vehicle is not restrictedly determined by the extension direction of the rail 11. In the present embodiment, the extension direction of the rail 11 coincides with the front-rear direction of the vehicle. In the present embodiment, the slide 12 is disposed at a position above the rail 11. Therefore, the rail 11 may be referred to as a lower rail, and the slide 12 may be referred to as an upper rail.

[0190] like Figure 3 and 4As shown, each of the rails 11 has a groove-shaped cross section. Specifically, each of the rails 11 includes: a rail bottom wall 11A having surfaces facing up and down; left and right rail outer side walls 11B extending upward from left and right edges of the rail bottom wall 11A and having surfaces facing left and right; left and right rail top walls 11C extending from upper edges of the left and right rail outer side walls 11B in a direction in which the left and right rail top walls 11C approach each other; and left and right rail inner side walls 11D extending downward from inner ends of the left and right rail top walls 11C and each having surfaces facing left and right.

[0191] The track bottom wall 11A, the left and right track outer side walls 11B, the left and right track top walls 11C, and the left and right track inner side walls 11D each extend in the front-to-back direction. The left and right track outer side walls 11B and the left and right track inner side walls 11D extend parallel to each other and extend perpendicular to the track bottom wall 11A. The lower ends of the left and right track inner side walls 11D are spaced apart from the track bottom wall 11A. Formed at the top of each track 11 is a track opening 11E extending in the front-to-back direction. The track opening 11E is defined by the left and right track inner side walls 11D. Each of the individual tracks 11 can be formed by press-forming a metal sheet. The left and right edge portions of the track bottom wall 11A can have a raised step 11F. Each of the left and right steps 11F extends in the front-to-back direction and has a flat top surface.

[0192] Each of the left and right rail inner side walls 11D has a ridge 11G that is raised inward and extends in the front-rear direction. The cross-section of the left and right ridges 11G may be arcuate or trapezoidal in shape. Each of the individual ridges 11G may be located at a vertical middle position of the corresponding rail inner side wall 11D. The upper and lower ends of the left and right rail inner side walls 11D are recessed outward from the ridge 11G toward the left and right.

[0193] like Figures 2 to 4 As shown, each of the rails 11 has a plurality of engaging holes 15 arranged in a row in the extension direction of the rail 11, i.e., in the front-rear direction. The plurality of engaging holes 15 are defined in each ridge 11G on the inner side wall 11D of the corresponding rail. The plurality of engaging holes 15 extend parallel to each other. Each engaging hole 15 extends vertically. Each engaging hole 15 can be angled forward or backward.

[0194] The floor 2 has left and right rail grooves 17 that are recessed downward ( Figure 1 ). Each track 11 can be placed in a corresponding track groove 17.

[0195] like Figure 3As shown, each of the individual sliders 12 includes: a plate-like slider top wall 12A having surfaces facing up and down, the slider top wall 12A being placed along the opening end of the corresponding track opening 11E; left and right slider inner side walls 12B extending downward from the left and right side edges of the slider top wall 12A to the track bottom wall 11A; left and right slider lower walls 12C extending outward from the bottom edges of the left and right slider inner side walls 12B, respectively; and left and right slider outer walls 12D extending upward from the left and right outer ends of the left and right slider lower walls 12C. The slider top wall 12A, the left and right slider inner side walls 12B, the left and right slider lower walls 12C, and the left and right slider outer walls 12D extend in the front-rear direction.

[0196] Each of the individual slides 12 may be formed by fastening together a plurality of pressed or rolled metal sheets. In other embodiments, each of the individual slides 12 may be formed by a single pressed or rolled metal sheet. The longitudinal (front-to-back) length of each slide 12 is designed to be shorter than the longitudinal length of the track 11. The slide 12 is coupled to the seat cushion 5 at the slide top wall 12A.

[0197] The slider top wall 12A can be placed above the left and right track top walls 11C or below the left and right track top walls 11C. The left and right slider inner side walls 12B each have a surface facing the left and right, and are opposite to each other and spaced apart at a certain horizontal distance. The left and right slider inner side walls 12B are arranged between the left and right track inner side walls 11D. Each slider inner side wall 12B faces the corresponding track inner side wall 11D on the left and right sides, and there is a gap between them. Each slider lower wall 12C extends horizontally between the bottom of the track bottom wall 11A and the bottom of the corresponding track inner side wall 11D on both sides. Each slider outer wall 12D is placed between the corresponding track outer side wall 11B and the track inner side wall 11D on both sides. A plurality of wheels 18 are rotatably supported on the outside of each slider outer wall 12D. Each wheel 18 has a rotation axis extending in the left-right direction and rests on the track bottom wall 11A. In the present embodiment, each wheel 18 rests on the upper surface of the corresponding step 11F of the rail bottom wall 11A. The slider 12 can slide smoothly relative to the rail 11 by resting on the rail 11 via the wheel 18. In this way, each slider 12 is accommodated on the corresponding rail 11 and slidably engaged therewith. In other embodiments, each slider 12 may be supported on the corresponding rail 11 via a ball bearing or a roller bearing.

[0198] The left and right slider inner side walls 12B have recessed portions 12E extending in the front-rear direction and recessed inward. Therefore, a ridge is formed on the rear side of the recessed portion 12E of each slider inner side wall 12B. When viewed in the front-rear direction, the cross-section of the left and right recessed portions 12E may be arcuate or trapezoidal in shape. Each of the recessed portions 12E may be located in the middle of the vertical middle position of the corresponding slider inner side wall 12B. Each recessed portion 12E is arranged to be opposite to the ridge 11G of the corresponding rail 11 in the left-right direction.

[0199] Each of the individual sliders 12 is in the form of a groove defined by a slider top wall 12A and left and right slider inner side walls 12B, the groove opening toward the rail bottom wall 11A, ie, opening downward.

[0200] like Figure 3 As shown, the slide device 1 is supported on the underside of the slide top wall 12A between the left and right slide inner side walls 12B.

[0201] like Figure 5 and 6 As shown, the slide device 1 includes a gear box 20 and an electric motor 21. Both the gear box 20 and the electric motor 21 are fixed to the slide 12. In the present embodiment, the gear box 20 is fixed to the lower side of the slide top wall 12A via a fixing bracket 22 using screws 23 or other coupling mechanisms. The electric motor 21 is also fixed to the lower side of the slide top wall 12A via a fixing bracket 22 using screws 23 or other coupling mechanisms.

[0202] Preferably, the cushion dampers 24 are respectively provided between the gear case 20 and the slider top wall 12A and between the electric motor 21 and the slider top wall 12A. The cushion dampers 24 absorb vibrations generated by the running electric motor 21 and prevent the vibrations from being transmitted to the vehicle seat 3.

[0203] like Figure 7 and 8 As shown, the gear box 20 has a generally rectangular shape extending in the front-rear direction when viewed from the top. The gear box 20 is disposed between the left and right slider inner side walls 12B. The slider hole 12F ( Figure 3 ) are respectively formed in portions of the slider inner side wall 12B opposite to the left and right sides of the gear box 20.

[0204] like Figure 5 and 7 As shown, the gearbox 20 includes a housing 26 ( Figure 5 ), a plurality of spiral members 27 rotatably supported by the housing 26 ( Figure 5 and 7 ), and a transmission mechanism 28 ( Figure 7 ).

[0205] like Figure 5 and 6 As shown, the housing 26 has a shell 30 and a cover 31 that form the lower and upper parts of the housing, respectively. Figure 6 As shown, the housing 30 has a housing recess 33 that is recessed downward, and each spiral component 27 is accommodated in the housing recess 33. The cover 31 is connected to the top of the housing 30 to define a housing chamber 34 ( Figure 5 and 7 ).

[0206] like Figure 6 and 7 As shown, each spiral component 27 is a so-called worm gear, which has a cylindrical shaft 36 extending in a predetermined direction and an external threaded portion 37 provided on the outer circumference of the shaft 36. The external threaded portion 37 is coaxial with the shaft 36 and has a cylindrical shape with an outer diameter greater than the outer diameter of the shaft 36. The external threaded portion 37 is provided at the middle of the shaft 36 in the axial direction. The ends of the shaft 36 extend from the external threaded portion 37 along the central axis in axially opposite directions to each other. A spiral spiral cam 37A ( Figure 7 ).

[0207] like Figure 6 As shown, each of the housing recesses 33 has a container 39 for accommodating the external threaded portion 37 and a seat portion 40 for accommodating the end of the shaft 36. A pair of seats 40 are provided at the front and rear portions, each accommodating the end of the shaft 36. Therefore, each of the spiral members 27 is rotatably supported by the housing 30, wherein the axis of the shaft 36 extends in the extending direction of the track 11.

[0208] like Figure 6 and 7 As shown, in this embodiment, two spiral components 27 are provided in the gear box 20, and therefore, the housing 30 has two pairs of bearing portions 40. The two spiral components 27 are arranged so that when viewed from the top, the two spiral components 27 are placed to be rotationally symmetrical about an imaginary line extending vertically through the gear box 20.

[0209] However, the number of the two spiral members 27 is not limited to two. For example, the gear box 20 may have only one spiral member 27, or three or more spiral members 27.

[0210] like Figure 6 and 7 As shown, the side wall 41 defines two axial ends of the container 39 (ie, the axial ends of the spiral member 27), and faces two axial ends of the external threaded portion 37. This restricts the axial movement of each spiral member 27 thereof.

[0211] like Figure 6 As shown, two bearing portions 40 are provided on each of the side walls 41 located at both axial ends (front end and rear end) of the housing 30. The bearing portions 40 are formed as side wall recesses 41A, each of which is recessed downward in the corresponding side wall 41. The side wall recesses 41A have a curved surface recessed downward in an arc shape when viewed from the extending direction of the rail 11. The side wall recesses 41A are provided in the side walls 41 located at both axial ends, and each of the side wall recesses 41A rotatably accommodates the end of the corresponding shaft 36.

[0212] like Figure 7 As shown, the left and right sides of the housing 30 are provided with communication recesses 42, which are recessed downward and extend inward from the left and right sides of the housing 30 to communicate with the corresponding containers 39. This forms openings 43 in the left and right sides of the housing 26 that communicate with the housing chamber 34 (see also Figure 5 ).like Figure 6 As shown, the spiral lobes 37A of each spiral member 27 protrude outward in the left-right direction through the corresponding openings 43 and the slider opening 12F to the outside of the housing 30 and extend into the engagement hole 15. As a result, each of the two spiral members 27 engages with the opposing rail 11.

[0213] like Figure 7 As shown, the rear surface of the housing 30 has an insertion recess 45 that is recessed forward and leads to the housing chamber 34, and an insertion hole 46 that communicates with the housing chamber 34 is formed at the rear end of the housing 26. One end of the rotating shaft 21A of the electric motor 21 is inserted into the insertion hole 46. In the present embodiment, a through hole (not shown) that extends downward through the lower wall is formed in the lower wall defining the lower portion of the insertion hole 46.

[0214] The transmission mechanism 28 converts the rotation of the rotating shaft 21A of the electric motor 21 into the rotation of the shaft 36 of the spiral member 27. The transmission mechanism 28 includes a driving gear 48 at one end of the rotating shaft 21A of the electric motor 21 and a plurality of driven gears 49 engaged with the driving gear 48. The plurality of driven gears 49 are respectively provided at the rear ends of the respective shafts 36 of the spiral member 27.

[0215] like Figure 7 As shown, the drive gear 48 is received in the insertion hole 46. Figure 6As shown, the cover 31 has a tool hole 51 that provides access to the drive gear 48. The tool hole 51 extends vertically through the cover 31 and connects the insertion hole 46 to the outside of the housing 30. In the present embodiment, the drive gear 48 is coupled to a bevel gear 52 that is concentric with the axis of the rotating shaft 21A. The bevel gear 52 protrudes from the end face of the drive gear 48 on the side opposite to the electric motor 21. The tool hole 51 extends vertically and opens above the bevel gear 52. Preferably, the opening of the tool hole 51 extends in the cover 31 to expose the position where the drive gear 48 engages with the driven gear 49.

[0216] like Figure 6 As shown, the gear box 20 may be provided with a cap member 51A to seal the tool hole 51. In this embodiment, two bushings (hereinafter referred to as rotating bushings 53) are provided on the rotating shaft 21A of the electric motor 21, so that the driving gear 48 and the bevel gear 52 are located between the rotating bushings along the axis of the rotating shaft 21A.

[0217] When the electric motor 21 is operated and the rotary shaft 21A rotates about its axis, the drive gear 48 rotates, thereby rotating the driven gear 49 engaged with the drive gear 48. As a result, the spiral member 27 rotates about the axis of the shaft 36.

[0218] Since the spiral convex corner 37A of the spiral member 27 engages with the corresponding engagement hole 15 of the rail 11, when the spiral member 27 rotates about its axis, the gear box 20 slides along the rail 11. Since the gear box 20 is coupled to the slider 12, when the spiral member 27 rotates, the slider 12 also slides along the rail 11. As a result, when the spiral member 27 rotates, the vehicle seat 3 coupled to the slider 12 also slides along the extending direction of the rail 11.

[0219] That is, when the electric motor 21 is operated, the rotation of the rotating shaft 21A is converted into a rotation about the axis of the spiral member 27 through the transmission mechanism 28, causing the slider 12 to slide relative to the track 11, which further causes the vehicle seat 3 to slide along the track 11. This configuration allows the user to slide the vehicle seat 3 to a position desired by the user by electrically controlling the operation of the electric motor 21 to thereby control the rotation amount and rotation direction of the rotating shaft 21A.

[0220] However, in some types of electric motors 21, the rotating shaft 21A rotates relatively freely even when stopped. The inventors of the present application have found a problem that, in the case of a vehicle using such an electric motor, when the vehicle is stopped on a slope, the rotation of the spiral member 27 is not sufficiently restricted, causing the vehicle seat 3 to slide and move due to its own weight.

[0221] According to the present invention made in consideration of this problem, Figure 7 and 8As shown, the gear box 20 provided with the housing 26 , the spiral member 27 and the transmission mechanism 28 further includes a plurality of rotation control devices 55 configured to limit the free rotation of the spiral member 27 .

[0222] Each of the rotation control devices 55 applies resistance to the corresponding spiral member 27 to prevent free rotation, thereby limiting the free rotation of the spiral member 27. Each of the rotation control devices 55 presses the corresponding spiral member 27 to one of the side walls 41, thereby generating a friction force between the rotatable spiral member 27 and the side wall 41. This friction force acts as resistance to prevent the free rotation of the spiral member 27.

[0223] Each spiral member 27 is pressed toward one of the side walls 41, which is hereinafter indicated as the side wall on the “first side”, and the other side wall 41 is hereinafter indicated as the side wall on the “second side”. The rotation control device 55 is provided on the second side of the external threaded portion 37, and pushes the end surface of the external threaded portion 37 on the second side toward the first side, thereby pressing the other end surface of the external threaded portion 37 against the side wall 41 on the first side. As a result, the external threaded portion 37 is frictionally engaged with the side wall 41 on the first side, thereby causing resistance to prevent the rotation of the spiral member 27.

[0224] like Figure 8 As shown, for the left spiral component 27, the first and second sides correspond to the rear and front sides, respectively. Therefore, the rotation control device 55 that limits the rotation of the left spiral component 27 is arranged on the front side (second side) of the external thread portion 37, and presses the external thread portion 37 against the rear side (first side) side wall 41 to provide resistance.

[0225] In addition, in the present embodiment, a bushing (hereinafter referred to as a first side bushing 56) is provided between the first side side wall 41 and the external threaded portion 37. The first side bushing 56 is a cylindrical shape having a through hole made of a plastic material. The first side shaft 36 of the spiral member 27 is fitted into the through hole. The first side bushing 56 supports the first side shaft 36 and is used to promote smooth rotation of the spiral member 27.

[0226] like Figure 7 As shown, the rotation control device 55 includes an extending device 57 that can be extended or retracted, and a pushing device 59 that pushes the extending device 57 to further extend it.

[0227] The extension device 57 is provided on the second side of the external thread portion 37. The seat portion 40 of the second side side wall 41 has a step 40B including a support surface 40A facing the first side, and the extension device 57 is provided between the support surface 40A and the second side end surface of the external thread portion 37.

[0228] The second side end of the extension device 57 contacts the support surface 40A, and the first side end contacts the second side end surface of the external thread portion 37. When the urging device 59 urges the extension device 57 to further extend, the spiral member 27 is pushed toward the first side, so that the spiral member 27 is pressed against the side wall 41.

[0229] like Fig. 9 As shown, the extension device 57 includes two tubular members 61 (also called "webs"). Each of the two tubular members 61 has an inner hole, and both are tubular (cylindrical) in shape, with equal inner and outer diameters. The two tubular members 61 are arranged coaxially, and the shaft 36 of the spiral member 27 located on the second side is inserted into the corresponding inner hole ( Figure 6 As a result, the two tubular members 61 have respective shafts 36 extending through inner holes of the two tubular members 61, and the tubular members 61 are rotatably supported by the shafts 36 of the spiral member 27. The tubular members 61 are accommodated in the housing 26, so the gear box 20 can be made compact.

[0230] In this embodiment, if Figure 6 As shown, a bushing 62 (hereinafter referred to as "second side bushing") is provided between the tubular member 61 and the shaft 36 of the spiral member 27. The second side bushing 62 made of a plastic material is tubular in shape and has a through hole, and the shaft 36 of the second side of the spiral member 27 is fitted into the through hole. The second side bushing 62 supports the second side shaft 36 and serves to promote smooth rotation of the spiral member 27. The second side shaft 36 is inserted into the two tubular members 61, wherein the second side bushing 62 is fitted between the second side shaft 36 and the two tubular members 61.

[0231] like Figure 8 As shown, two tubular parts 61 are arranged side by side along the axis of the shaft 36 on the second side. The tubular part 61 located on the second side is hereinafter referred to as the "first tubular part 63" (also referred to as the "first web"), and the tubular part 61 located on the first side is referred to as the "second tubular part 64" (also referred to as the "second web"). The first tubular part 63 contacts the second side side wall 41 and the second tubular part 64, and the second tubular part 64 contacts the second side end surface of the external threaded portion 37 and the first tubular part 63.

[0232] The end surface (first side) of the first tubular member 63 facing the second tubular member 64 and the end surface (second side) of the second tubular member 64 facing the first tubular member 63 each have an inclined surface (hereinafter referred to as "main inclined surface 65"). The main inclined surface 65 of the first tubular member 63 and the main inclined surface 65 of the second tubular member 64 are each inclined at a certain angle toward or away from the second side relative to the axis of the shaft 36. The main inclined surfaces 65 of the first tubular member 63 and the second tubular member 64 are inclined at the same angle.

[0233] When the first and second tubular members 63 and 64 rotate in opposite directions around the axis, the first and second tubular members 63 and 64 move toward or away from each other in the axial direction while the main inclined surfaces 65 contact each other and slide on each other. Therefore, when the first and second tubular members 63 and 64 slide on each other and rotate relative to each other, causing the total length of the extension device 57 in the axial direction to change, the extension device 57 extends and retracts in the axial direction.

[0234] Fig.10 2 shows a cross-sectional view of the gearbox 20. Figure 8 and 10 As shown, when the first tubular member 63 rotates clockwise relative to the second tubular member 64 when viewed from the second side toward the first side, the first tubular member 63 and the second tubular member 64 move away from each other in the axial direction, thereby extending the extension device 57 in the axial direction. When the first tubular member 63 rotates counterclockwise relative to the second tubular member 64 when viewed from the second side toward the first side, the first tubular member 63 and the second tubular member 64 move toward each other in the axial direction, thereby retracting the extension device 57 in the axial direction.

[0235] The pushing device 59 pushes the extension device 57, so that the first tubular member 63 and the second tubular member 64 rotate relative to each other in opposite directions, thereby extending the extension device 57. In this embodiment, the pushing device 59 includes a first pushing member 67 disposed between the first tubular member 63 and the housing 26 and a second pushing member 68 disposed between the second tubular member 64 and the housing 26.

[0236] The first urging member 67 urges the first tubular member 63 to rotate about its axis, and the second urging member 68 also urges the second tubular member 64 to rotate about its axis (see FIG. Fig.10 ). In this configuration, the first tubular member 63 and the second tubular member 64 are urged to rotate in opposite directions, thereby extending the extension device 57.

[0237] Specifically, Fig.10As shown, the first urging member 67 urges the first tubular member 63 to rotate clockwise when viewed from the second side toward the first side, and the second urging member 68 urges the second tubular member 64 to rotate counterclockwise when viewed from the second side toward the first side. Therefore, the first tubular member 63 is urged to rotate clockwise relative to the second tubular member 64, which means that the first and second urging members 67 and 68 urge the extension device 57 to extend.

[0238] In the present embodiment, the first and second urging members 67 and 68 are torsion coil springs. The first urging member 67 is hooked and fixed to the first tubular member 63 at one end, and is hooked and fixed to the hook portion 30A of the housing 30 at the other end. The second urging member 68 is similarly hooked and fixed to the second tubular member 64 at one end, and is hooked and fixed to the hook portion 31A of the cover 31 at the other end. Therefore, both urging members are connected to the tubular member 61 and the housing 26.

[0239] like Fig. 9 and 10 As shown, each of the first tubular member 63 and the second tubular member 64 has a protrusion 70, and one end of the first pushing member 67 and one end of the second pushing member 68 are hooked to the protrusions 70 of the first tubular member 63 and the second tubular member 64, respectively. Each of the respective protrusions 70 has a notch 72 at the protruding end and is shaped into a hook shape (i.e., a hook shape). One end of the first pushing member 67 and one end of the second pushing member 68 are hooked into the notch of the corresponding protrusion 70, respectively. Therefore, each of the respective protrusions 70 serves as a capture portion for capturing the second pushing member 68 (or a hook portion on which the second pushing member is hooked).

[0240] In this embodiment, if Fig.10 As shown, the housing 30 has a through hole (hereinafter referred to as "first spring through hole 74") for connecting the first pushing member 67 to the first tubular member 63. The first spring through hole 74 extends from the lower side of the housing 30 to the support portion 40 of the second side wall 41. The first pushing member 67 is coupled to the lower side of the housing 30 at one end and hooked to the protrusion 70 of the first tubular member 63, and the protrusion 70 extends through the first spring through hole 74.

[0241] Furthermore, in the present embodiment, the cover 31 has a through hole (hereinafter referred to as a second spring through hole 75) for connecting the second pushing member 68 to the second tubular member 64. The second spring through hole 75 extends vertically from the top surface of the cover 31 so as to at least partially expose the seat portion 40 of the second side wall 41. The second pushing member 68 is coupled to the top surface of the cover 31 at one end and hooked to the protrusion 70 of the second tubular member 64, and the protrusion 70 extends through the second spring through hole 75.

[0242] Fig.11 FIG. 2 shows a top view of the gearbox 20. Fig.10 As shown, when viewed from the top, the second spring through hole 75 at least partially exposes the protrusion 70 of the second tubular member 64. This feature makes it easy to fasten the second urging member 68 to the protrusion 70. The second spring through hole 75 is formed to at least partially expose the first and second tubular members 63 and 64. This feature allows the first and second tubular members 63 and 64 to be simultaneously visible through the second spring through hole 75, which improves the maintainability of the gear box 20.

[0243] In this embodiment, if Figure 8 As shown, the first tubular member 63 and the second side wall 41 of the housing 30 have surfaces facing each other and inclined at the same angle (hereinafter referred to as "auxiliary inclined surfaces 76"). The auxiliary inclined surface 76 is spirally inclined toward or away from the second tubular member 64 relative to the axis of the first tubular member 64. When the first tubular member 63 rotates about the axis and its auxiliary inclined surface 76 slides along the auxiliary inclined surface 76 of the second side wall 41 of the housing 30, the inclination of the auxiliary inclined surface 76 causes the first tubular member 63 to move to the first or second side.

[0244] like Figure 8 As shown, the first and second tubular members 63 and 64 have respective main inclined surfaces 65, and the first tubular member 63 and the second side wall 41 have respective auxiliary inclined surfaces 76. These auxiliary inclined surfaces 76 are inclined at opposite inclination angles from the inclined surface 65 relative to the same axis. In other words, these auxiliary inclined surfaces 76 are "reverse inclined surfaces" that are inclined in the opposite direction to the main inclined surface 65.

[0245] Specifically, the main inclined surface 65 extends spirally clockwise from the first side to the second side so as to be spirally inclined about the axis away from the spiral member 27 (i.e., toward the second side). The auxiliary inclined surface 76 extends spirally clockwise from the second side to the first side so as to be spirally inclined about the axis toward the spiral member 27 (i.e., toward the first side).

[0246] like Fig.10 As shown, the first urging member 67 urges the first tubular member 63 to rotate clockwise about the axis when viewed from the second side toward the first side. Fig. 9 As can be understood, the urging force from the first urging member 67 urges the first tubular member 63 to rotate clockwise around the axis when viewed from the second side toward the first side, thereby causing the respective auxiliary inclined surfaces 76 to slide on each other, which moves the first tubular member 63 toward the first side.

[0247] like Figure 8As shown, the first tubular member 63 is provided with a stopper 78, which engages the second side wall 41 to limit the rotation of the first tubular member 63 around its axis relative to the second side wall 41, thereby preventing the first tubular member 63 from moving to the first side. (See also Fig. 9 ). A stopper 78 is provided at the second side end portion of the first tubular member 63 .

[0248] When the first tubular member 63 rotates clockwise about the axis when viewed from the second side toward the one side, the stopper 78 engages with the step 40B on the second-side sidewall 41 of the housing 30 to restrict the clockwise rotation of the first tubular member 63 .

[0249] Preferably, when the electric motor 21 is not in operation, the first and second tubular members 63 and 64 are in contact with each other and respectively with the second side wall 41 and the second side end surface of the external threaded portion 37, and the stopper 78 is engaged with the step 40B. This engagement of the stopper 78 with the step 40B restricts the first tubular member 63 from rotating clockwise around the axis when viewed from the second side to the first side, thereby preventing the first tubular member 63 from moving toward the first side. As a result, the spiral member 27 is prevented from being excessively pressed against the first side wall 41.

[0250] Next, a method for assembling the sliding device 1 thus constructed will be described. In order to assemble the sliding device 1 , an assembler first assembles the gear box 20 .

[0251] When assembling the gear box 20, the assembler first prepares the spiral member 27, the driven gear 49, the first tubular member 63, the second tubular member 64, the first bushing and the second bushing. Then, the assembler puts the spiral member 27 into the housing recess 33, pulls the first pushing member 67 through the first spring through hole 74, and hooks and fixes the respective ends of the first pushing member 67 to the lower side of the housing 30 and the first tubular member 63, respectively.

[0252] The assembler then inserts the rotating shaft 21A of the electric motor 21 into the insertion recess 45 of the housing 30 through the hole defined in the fixing bracket 22, places the driving gear 48 and the driven gear 49 so that the gears 48 and 49 are engaged with each other, places the cover 31 on the housing 30, and then attaches the cover 31 to the housing 30. Next, the assembler pulls the second urging member 68 through the second spring through hole 75 and hooks and fixes the end of the second urging member 68 to the cover 31 and the second tubular member 64. Then, the gear box 20 is completed.

[0253] Next, the assembling worker attaches the damper 24 to the gear box 20, and respectively fixes the gear box 20 and the electric motor 21 to the fixing bracket 22. Then, the assembling worker fastens the fixing bracket 22 to the slider 12. As a result, the assembling of the gear box 20 and the electric motor 21 to the slider 12 is completed (assembling step of the slider 12).

[0254] The assembler then inserts the slider 12 from one end (front end or rear end) of the rail 11 (or operates the electric motor 21 after the insertion) to assemble the slider 12 to the rail 11. When the assembling of the slider 12 to the rail 11 (assembling step of the rail 11) is completed, the assembly of the slide device 1 is completed.

[0255] like Fig.12 As shown in (A), the damper 24 and the slider 12 define vertical through holes 24A and 12A, respectively, so as to expose the tool hole 51. This configuration allows the assembler to access the gear portion 80A through the tool hole 51 using a tool 80 after the gear box 20 is attached to the slider 12, so as to perform maintenance work. Specifically, the assembler is allowed to insert the tool 80 having the gear portion 80A at the end into the through hole and engage the gear portion 80A with the bevel gear 52 to rotate the drive gear 48.

[0256] Fig.12 (C) is an enlarged view of the area at and around the tool hole 51 in a modified form of the gearbox 20. Fig.12 In this modification shown in (C), a tool hole 51 is formed in the cover 31 to expose the meshing area between the drive gear 48 and the driven gear 49. This configuration allows an assembler to visually confirm whether the drive gear 48 is properly engaged with the driven gear 49 during maintenance work.

[0257] Next, the operation and effects of the sliding device 1 thus constructed will be described.

[0258] When the electric motor 21 is not in operation, the urging forces applied by the first and second urging members 67 and 68 move the first and second tubular members 63 and 64 toward the first side, so that the second tubular member 64 presses the external threaded portion 37 against the first side side wall 41. As a result, the first side end surface is pressed against the first side side wall 41.

[0259] When a load is applied to the slider 12, allowing the slider 12 to move along the track 11, a load is also applied to the spiral member 27, causing the spiral member 27 to rotate about its axis. In this case, the extension device 57 pushed by the pushing member presses the external threaded portion 37 against the side wall 41. Therefore, when the spiral member 27 starts to rotate, a friction force associated with the pressing force occurs. This friction force acts as a resistance to prevent the rotation of the spiral member 27.

[0260] Therefore, when the spiral member 27 starts to rotate, the rotation control device 55 (including the urging device 59 and the extending device 57) provides resistance to prevent the rotation of the spiral member 27. This configuration prevents the spiral member 27 from rotating freely, thereby providing the sliding device 1 capable of preventing the unexpected movement of the slider 12. Preventing the unexpected movement of the slider 12 improves the safety of the vehicle seat 3.

[0261] When the electric motor 21 is operated, the rotating shaft 21A rotates, and the rotation is transmitted to the spiral member 27 via the transmission mechanism 28, thereby rotating the spiral member 27. Since the spiral member 27 is in contact with the second tubular member 64, the friction force between the spiral member 27 and the tubular member 61 applies a load to the second tubular member 64, thereby rotating the second tubular member 64 around the axis of the shaft 36.

[0262] like Fig.14 As shown in (A), the rotation of the spiral component 27 can apply a load to the second tubular component 64, so that the second tubular component 64 rotates clockwise around the axis when viewed from the second side toward the first side. In this case, the friction force between the first and second tubular components 63 and 64 applies a load to the first tubular component 63, so that the first tubular component 63 rotates clockwise around the axis when viewed from the second side toward the first side. However, the engagement between the stopper 78 and the step 40B prevents the first tubular component 63 from rotating clockwise around the axis when viewed from the second side to the first side. As a result, the second tubular component 64 rotates clockwise around the axis relative to the first tubular component 63 when viewed from the second side to the first side.

[0263] This makes the second tubular member 64 Fig.14 (A) moves to the second side (which, for example, creates a gap between the first and second tubular parts 63 and 64), thereby reducing the load applied to the external threaded portion 37 from the second tubular part 64 toward the first side, which further reduces the force pressing the spiral part 27 to the first side side wall 41, thereby improving the sliding characteristics of the spiral part 27, that is, enabling the spiral part 27 to rotate.

[0264] Therefore, when a load is applied to the second tubular member 64 to rotate the second tubular member 64 clockwise around the axis when viewed from the second side toward the first side, the stopper 78 restricts the rotation of the first tubular member 63, thereby allowing the spiral member 27 to rotate in response to the operation of the electric motor 21. This allows the slider 12 to slide relative to the rail 11 in response to the operation of the electric motor 21.

[0265] like Fig.14As shown in (B), when a load is applied to the second tubular member 64 to rotate counterclockwise around the axis when viewed from the second side toward the first side, the friction force between the first and second tubular members 63 and 64 applies a load to the first tubular member 63, thereby rotating the first tubular member 63 counterclockwise around the axis when viewed from the second side toward the first side. The auxiliary inclined surface 76 is inclined so that when the first tubular member 63 rotates counterclockwise around the axis when viewed from the second side toward the first side, the first tubular member 63 moves to the second side (this, for example, creates a gap between the first tubular member 63 and the other side wall 41), thereby reducing the load applied to the external threaded portion 37 from the second tubular member 64 toward the first side.

[0266] This reduces the force pressing the spiral member 27 to the first side wall 41, thereby improving the slidable property of the spiral member 27, ie, enabling the spiral member 27 to rotate. Thus, the slider 12 is allowed to slide relative to the rail 11 in response to the operation of the electric motor 21.

[0267] As described above, the slide device 1 according to the present invention is configured so that, when the electric motor 21 is not operating, resistance is applied to the spiral member 27, thereby preventing it from rotating freely, which prevents the movement of the slider that is not intended by the user. The slide device 1 is also configured so that when the electric motor 21 is operating, the spiral member 27 is allowed to rotate, thereby enabling the slider 12 to move as intended by the user.

[0268] (Second embodiment) The sliding device according to the second embodiment of the present invention is also provided with a plurality of tracks and a plurality of slides slidably supported on the plurality of tracks. The tracks are connected to the first structure, and the slides are connected to the second structure. In the sliding device, each of the plurality of slides slides about a corresponding one of the plurality of tracks, thereby moving the second structure relative to the first structure. In some examples, the sliding device is arranged between a floor and a seat in a vehicle so that the seat can move relative to the floor. In other examples, an electrically driven sliding track device is arranged between a base and a workpiece fixture so that the workpiece fixture can move relative to the base. An embodiment of the sliding device of the present invention will be described with reference to an example in which the sliding device is arranged between a floor and a seat in a vehicle.

[0269] like Fig.15As shown, a slide device 101 of the second embodiment is provided between a floor 102 defining a lower end of a vehicle interior and a vehicle seat 103. The vehicle seat 103 has a seat cushion 105 for supporting the buttocks of an occupant and a seat back 106 extending upward from a rear portion of the seat cushion 105 and supporting the back of the occupant. The slide device 101 is provided between the floor 102 and the seat cushion 105, and slidably supports the seat cushion 105 with respect to the floor 102. A cover 107 is provided on one side of the seat cushion 105 to cover a gap between the seat cushion 105 and the floor 102.

[0270] like Fig.16 As shown, the sliding device 1 includes left and right rails 111 extending in the front-rear direction and left and right slides 112 slidably supported on the left and right rails 111, respectively. The extension direction of the rail 111 may or may not coincide with the front-rear direction of the vehicle. In other words, the direction along which the sliding device is installed in the vehicle is not limitedly determined by the extension direction of the rail 111. In the present embodiment, the extension direction of the rail 111 coincides with the front-rear direction of the vehicle. In the present embodiment, the slide 112 is disposed at a position above the rail 111. Therefore, the rail 111 may be referred to as a lower rail, and the slide 112 may be referred to as an upper rail.

[0271] like Fig.17 and 18 As shown, each of the rails 111 has a groove-shaped cross section. Specifically, each of the rails 111 includes: a rail bottom wall 111A having surfaces facing up and down; left and right rail outer side walls 111B extending upward from left and right edges of the rail bottom wall 111A and having surfaces facing left and right; left and right rail top walls 111C extending from upper edges of the left and right rail outer side walls 111B in such a direction that the left and right rail top walls 111C approach each other; and left and right rail inner side walls 111D extending downward from inner ends of the left and right rail top walls 111C and each having surfaces facing left and right.

[0272] The track bottom wall 111A, the left and right track outer side walls 111B, the left and right track top walls 111C, and the left and right track inner side walls 111D each extend in the front-to-back direction. The left and right track outer side walls 111B and the left and right track inner side walls 111D extend parallel to each other and extend perpendicular to the track bottom wall 111A. The lower ends of the left and right track inner side walls 111D are spaced apart from the track bottom wall 111A. Formed at the top of each track 111 is a track opening 111E extending in the front-to-back direction. The track opening 111E is defined by the left and right track inner side walls 111D. Each of the individual tracks 111 may be formed by press forming a metal sheet. The left and right edge portions of the track bottom wall 111A may have a raised step 111F. Each of the left and right steps 111F extends in the front-to-back direction and has a flat top surface.

[0273] Each of the left and right rail inner side walls 111D has a ridge 111G that is raised inward and extends in the front-rear direction. The cross-section of the left and right ridges 111G may be arcuate or trapezoidal in shape. Each of the respective ridges 111G may be located in a vertical middle position of the corresponding rail inner side wall 111D. The upper and lower end portions of the left and right rail inner side walls 111D are recessed outward to the left and right from the ridges 111G.

[0274] like Figures 16 to 18 As shown, each of the rails 111 has a plurality of engaging holes 115 arranged in a row in the extension direction of the rail 111, i.e., in the front-rear direction. The plurality of engaging holes 115 are defined in each ridge 111G on the inner side wall 111D of the corresponding rail. The plurality of engaging holes 115 extend parallel to each other. Each engaging hole 115 extends vertically. Each engaging hole 115 can be angled forward or backward.

[0275] The floor 2 has left and right rail grooves 17 that are recessed downward ( Figure 1 ). Each track 11 can be placed in a corresponding track groove 17.

[0276] like Fig.17As shown, each of the respective sliders 112 includes: a plate-like slider top wall 112A having surfaces facing up and down, the slider top wall 112A being placed along the opening end of the corresponding rail opening 111E; left and right slider inner side walls 112B extending from the left and right side edges of the slider top wall 112A to the rail bottom wall 111A, that is, extending downward; left and right slider lower walls 112C extending outward from the bottom edges of the left and right slider inner side walls 112B, respectively; and left and right slider outer walls 112D extending upward from the left and right outer ends of the left and right slider lower walls 112C. The slider top wall 112A, the left and right slider inner side walls 112B, the left and right slider lower walls 112C, and the left and right slider outer walls 112D extend in the front-rear direction.

[0277] Each of the individual slides 112 may be formed by fastening together a plurality of pressed or rolled metal sheets. In other embodiments, each of the individual slides 112 may be formed from a single pressed or rolled metal sheet. The longitudinal (front-to-back) length of each slide 112 is designed to be shorter than the longitudinal length of the track 111. The slides 112 are coupled to the seat cushion 105 at the slide top wall 112A.

[0278] The slider top wall 112A can be placed above the left and right track top walls 111C or below the left and right track top walls 111C. The left and right slider inner side walls 112B each have a surface facing the left and right, and are opposite to each other and spaced apart at a certain horizontal distance. The left and right slider inner side walls 112B are arranged between the left and right track inner side walls 111D. Each slider inner side wall 112B faces the corresponding track inner side wall 111D on the left and right sides, and has a gap between them. Each slider lower wall 112C extends horizontally between the bottom of the track bottom wall 111A and the bottom of the corresponding track inner side wall 111D on both sides. Each slider outer wall 112D is placed between the corresponding track outer side wall 111B and the track inner side wall 111D on both sides. A plurality of wheels 118 are rotatably supported on the outside of each slider outer wall 112D. Each wheel 118 has a rotation axis extending in the left-right direction and rests on the track bottom wall 111A. In the present embodiment, each wheel 118 rests on the upper surface of the corresponding step 111F of the track bottom wall 111A. The slider 112 is able to slide smoothly about the track 111 by resting on the track 111 via the wheel 118. In this way, each slider 112 is accommodated on the corresponding track 111 and slidably engaged therewith. In other embodiments, each slider 112 may be supported on the corresponding track 111 via a ball bearing or a roller bearing.

[0279] The left and right slider inner side walls 112B have recessed portions 112E extending in the front-rear direction and recessed inward. Therefore, a ridge is formed on the rear side of the recessed portion 112E of each of the slider inner side walls 112B. When viewed in the front-rear direction, the cross-section of the left and right recessed portions 112E may be arcuate or trapezoidal in shape. Each of the recessed portions 112E may be located in the middle of the vertical middle position of the corresponding slider inner side wall 112B. Each recessed portion 112E is arranged to be opposite to the ridge 111G of the corresponding rail 111 in the left-right direction.

[0280] Each of the individual sliders 112 is in the form of a groove defined by a slider top wall 112A and left and right slider inner side walls 112B, the groove opening toward the rail bottom wall 111A, that is, opening downward. Fig.17 As shown, the slide lock 130 is supported on the lower surface of the top wall 112A of the slide.

[0281] The slide lock device 130 is used to restrict the movement of the slide member 112 along the rail 111. The slide lock device 130 releases the movement restriction in response to an input operation of an occupant in the vehicle seat 103, thereby allowing the vehicle seat 103 to move along the rail 111. When no input operation is performed, the slide lock device 130 restricts the movement of the slide member 112 relative to the rail 111.

[0282] like Figures 19 to 23 As shown, the slide locking device 130 includes: a housing 131, which is coupled to the slide 112; at least one locking member 132, which is rotatably supported in the housing 131 to rotate between a release position and a lock position; a push member 133, which pushes the locking member 132 to the lock position; and an operating member 134, which is movably supported in the housing 131 and contacts the locking member 132. In the present embodiment, the locking member 132 and the push member 133 are arranged in left and right pairs. The slide locking device 130 is fixed to the slide 112 via a fixing bracket 130A.

[0283] like Fig.19 and 20 As shown, the housing 131 is preferably formed by a plurality of components. In the present embodiment, the housing 131 includes a lower housing component 131A and an upper housing component 131B coupled to the lower housing component. The left and right locking components 132 are rotatably supported between the lower housing component 131A and the upper housing component 131B. The housing 131 is coupled to the bottom surface of the slider top wall 112A and is disposed between a pair of slider inner side walls 112B. This allows the sliding locking device 130 to be arranged in the slider 112 in a space-saving manner. A slider opening 112F is formed at a portion of the slider inner side wall 112B facing the housing 131.

[0284] The pair of locking members 132 are arranged parallel to each other. Each locking member 132 has a shaft 132A extending in the front-to-back direction. In other words, the rotation axis of each locking member 132 extends in the front-to-back direction. The front and rear ends of the shaft 132A are rotatably supported by the housing 131. Each locking member 132 has at least one protrusion 132B protruding radially from the shaft 132A. In the present embodiment, a plurality of protrusions 132B protrude radially from the shaft 132A toward one side.

[0285] like Fig. 20 As shown, the plurality of protrusions 132B preferably extend in a spiral shape around the rotation axis of the locking member 132. The plurality of protrusions 132B are formed in a row along the rotation axis; that is, the plurality of protrusions 132B are arranged at intervals in the front-to-back direction. The housing 131 has a spiral groove 131C configured to accommodate the plurality of protrusions 132B.

[0286] like Fig. 20 As shown, each locking member 132 has one or more ridges 132C that protrude radially from the shaft 132A, that is, protrude in a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis of the locking member 132. Each ridge 132C protrudes from the shaft 132A in a radial direction different from that of the plurality of protrusions 132B (generally, in a radially opposite direction), and forms a strip extending along the extension direction of the shaft 132A.

[0287] like Fig.19 As shown, the housing openings 131D are formed on the left and right sides of the housing 131. The locking member 132 is in the locking position ( Fig.21 (A)) and release position ( Fig. 22 (A)) are rotated between the housing 131 and the plurality of protrusions 132B pass through the corresponding housing openings 131D and extend out of the housing 131 in the locked position, and the plurality of protrusions 132B are located inside the housing 131 in the released position.

[0288] like Fig. 22 As shown in (A), when each of the respective locking members 132 is in the release position, the plurality of protrusions 132B are located above the shaft 132A. As a result, the plurality of protrusions 132B are each accommodated in the housing 131.

[0289] like Fig.21 As shown in (A), when each of the respective locking members 132 is in the locked position, at least one of the respective ridges 132C of the left and right locking members 132 protrudes toward each other; that is, protrudes from the axis 132A toward the center position between the left and right sides of the housing 131. The locked position of the locking member 132 can be defined as a position when at least one of the plurality of protrusions 132B is in contact with the housing 131.

[0290] like Fig.19 and 20 As shown, each of the pushing components 133 is arranged between the housing 131 and the corresponding locking component 132, and pushes the locking component 132 toward the locked position. For example, the pushing component 133 can be a torsion coil spring. When the pushing component 133 is a torsion coil spring, the pushing component 133 can be fixed to the housing 131 at one end and fixed to the locking component 132 at the other end. Each of the locking components 132 is provided with a hook 132D to which the pushing component 133 is hooked. The hook 132D is formed as a notch in the end protrusion 132B. The pushing component 133 can be supported by the shaft 132A of the locking component 132, or can be supported by the housing 131.

[0291] like Fig.19 As shown, the operating member 134 is arranged at the center of the housing 131 in the lateral direction. The lower housing member 131A and the upper housing member 131B have through holes 131E and 131F extending vertically therethrough, respectively. The operating member 134 extends through the through holes 131E and 131F. The upper portion of the operating member 134 protrudes upward from the top surface of the housing 131. Pushing the upper portion of the operating member 134 downward allows the slide 112 to move relative to the rail 111.

[0292] like Fig. 20 As shown, the operating member 134 includes a body 135 extending in the vertical direction, a pair of arms 136 extending from front and rear ends of the body 135 in the front-rear direction, and a lock release portion 137 extending upward from the top surface of the body 135 .

[0293] The main body 135 has a substantially rectangular prism shape with surfaces facing left and right. Fig.21 As shown in (A), the main body 135 can be configured to have a quadrangular pyramid shape with a lateral width that increases downward. The main body 135 is configured to be detachable in the vertical direction through the through hole 131E in the lower housing part 131A. The left and right sides of the main body 135 are provided with a plurality of pushers 135A protruding outward. The respective pushers 135A are preferably arranged on the left and right sides of the main body 135 in a symmetrical manner.

[0294] like Fig. 20 As shown, the arm 136 has a plate-like shape facing up and down. On the lower surface of each arm 136, a substantially cylindrical container 136A is provided. Formed on the lower housing part 131A below the container 136A is a substantially cylindrical and downwardly recessed accommodation recess 136B. An arm pushing member 138 that pushes the arm 136 upward is attached between the container 136A and the corresponding accommodation recess 136B. In the present embodiment, each of the individual arm pushing members 138 is formed by a torsion coil spring.

[0295] Each of the arm pressing members 138 is located at a lateral position aligned in the front-rear direction with the operating member 134. This configuration allows the operating member 134 to be pressed upward, and also allows the arm pressing member 138 and the operating member 134 to be compactly arranged.

[0296] like Fig.19 As shown, the lock release portion 137 is a columnar portion protruding upward from the top of the body 135. In the present embodiment, the lock release portion 137 is cylindrical in shape. However, the lock release portion 137 may have a square column shape or any one of various other shapes.

[0297] The through hole 131F in the upper housing member 131B is sized so that the lock release portion 137 can pass therethrough, but the arm 136 cannot pass therethrough. The arm urging member 138 exerts an urging force upward on the operating member 134 so that the arm 136 contacts the lower side of the upper housing member 131B when the operating member 134 is in its initial position. When the operating member 134 is in the initial position, at least one of the respective push portions 135A provided on each of the left and right sides of the main body 135 is seated above the ridge 132C of the corresponding locking member 132.

[0298] When the operating member 134 is pushed downward from the initial position, the pushing portion 135A pushes downward the ridge 132C of the locking member 132 , thereby rotating the locking member 132 about its axis from the locking position of the locking member 132 to the releasing position.

[0299] like Fig.21 As shown in (A) and 22 (A), the locking member 132 has a plurality of ridges 132C. The ridges 132C are arranged in a row along the circumferential direction (more specifically, the rotation direction from the locking position of the locking member 132 to the release position). The operating member 134 also has a plurality of pushers 135A arranged in a row in the vertical direction. When the operating member 134 moves downward to rotate the locking member 132, each pusher 135A is used to push the corresponding ridge 132C downward. In order to achieve this function, the pushers 135A are arranged so that when the locking member 132 rotates due to the downward movement of the operating member 134 and the ridges 132C protrude in the left and right directions, the corresponding pushers 135A are placed on the upper side of the corresponding ridges 132C and preferably contact with the corresponding ridges 132C.

[0300] When the operating member 134 is moved from the initial position ( Fig.21 (A))Move to the insertion position ( Fig. 22 (A)), the locking member 132 rotates from the locking position to the releasing position.

[0301] In this embodiment, if Fig.23As shown, the operating member 134 is configured to be movable from the insertion position to the push-in position located further downward. Each of the respective locking members 132 rotates together with the downward movement of the operating member 134 from the insertion position to the push-in position, and rotates from the locking position to the overtravel position.

[0302] In the present embodiment, the sliding device is configured so that when the operating member 134 is inserted from the insertion position to the push-in position, the locking member 132 is prevented from rotating as much as possible from the release position. Specifically, the ratio of the rotation amount of the locking member 132 to the rotation amount of the operating member 134 is determined so that the rotation amount from the release position to the push-in position is less than the rotation amount from the insertion position to the release position.

[0303] Specifically, the insertion amount of the operating member 134 from the initial position to the insertion position is about 10 mm (see Fig. 22 ), and the corresponding rotation amount of the locking member 132 is about 85 degrees, and the further insertion amount of the operating member 134 from the insertion position to the push-in position is about 5 mm (see Fig.23 ), and the corresponding rotation amount of the locking component 132 is approximately 25 degrees (ie, less than half).

[0304] In order to achieve this relationship between the insertion amount and the rotation amount, such as Fig.21 As shown in FIG. 1B , the circumferential spacing of the ridges 132C may be uneven, and the shape of the ridges 132C may be uneven. In addition, the cross-sectional shape of the shaft 132A on which the ridges 132C are formed may be configured to have a shape other than a perfect circle (see FIG. 1B ). Fig.21 (Double-dot chain line in (B)). This configuration allows the ridge 132C to be disposed offset from the circumference of the shaft 132A, and allows the locking member 132 to have an eccentric gear shape.

[0305] In this embodiment, if Fig. 22 As shown in (A) and 23, when the operating member 134 is moving from the insertion position to the push-in position, the uppermost push portion 135A of the operating member 134 contacts and pushes out the corresponding ridge 132C. Fig. 22 As shown in (B), an inclined surface 135B is provided on the lower surface of the uppermost push portion 135A, which is inclined outward and upward in the left-right direction. The angle θ of the inclined surface 135B relative to the imaginary plane facing laterally outward is smaller than the angle θ' of the lower surface of the other push portions relative to the imaginary plane. This feature reduces the amount of rotation of the locking member 132 relative to the insertion amount of the operating member 134 compared to when the other push portions 135A push out the ridge 132C. Therefore, when the operating member 134 moves from the insertion position to the push-in position, the amount of rotation of the locking member 132 is allowed to be reduced.

[0306] like Fig.15 As shown, each of the left and right slide members 112 is provided with an operating rod 141 configured to be rotatable. The operating rod 141 includes a rod center portion 141A extending from the front lower portion of the seat cushion 105 in the left-right direction, and left and right rod side portions 141B extending rearward from the left and right ends of the rod center portion 141A. In each slide member 112, the middle portion of the left and right rod side portions 141B in the front-to-back direction is supported to be rotatable around a pivot axis 141C extending in the left and right directions. The rear ends of the left and right rod side portions 141B contact the top of the operating member 134 from above. Preferably, the rear ends of the left and right rod side portions 141B are pushed upward by a pushing member 133 (not shown).

[0307] like Fig.21 As shown in (A), when the operating member 134 is in the initial position, the left and right locking members 132 are in the locked position. When the left and right locking members 132 are in the locked position, the plurality of protrusions 132B of each locking member 132 extend through the corresponding housing opening 131D and the slide member opening to enter the corresponding engaging hole 115 of the corresponding track 111, wherein the protrusion 132B is locked in place. This configuration limits the movement of the slide member 112 relative to the track 111.

[0308] When the user pulls up the rod center portion 141A of the operating rod 141, the rear ends of the left and right rod side portions 141B push down the top of the operating member 134. As a result, Fig. 22 As shown in (A), the operating member 134 moves downward from the initial position.

[0309] When the operating member 134 is pushed downward from the initial position, the pushing portion 135A pushes downward the ridge 132C of the locking member 132 , thereby rotating the locking member 132 about its axis from the locking position to the releasing position.

[0310] Specifically, the push portion 135A of the operating member 134 pushes the left and right ridges 132C downward, rotating the left and right locking members 132 from the locking position to the releasing position. As a result, the plurality of protrusions 132B leave the engaging holes 115 of the rail 111 and retract into the housing 131. As a result, the slider 112 becomes movable relative to the rail 111.

[0311] In this embodiment, if Fig.23 As shown, the operating member 134 can be inserted from the insertion position to the push-in position. In this configuration, it is expected that the user will insert the operating member 134 to a position lower than the insertion position, thereby preventing insufficient insertion of the operating member 134 to ensure that the restriction on the movement of the slide 112 (i.e., the movement of the vehicle seat 103) is released as the user wants.

[0312] When each of the respective locking members 132 moves from the locking position to the releasing position, at least one of the respective protrusions 132B slides in the spiral groove 131C, thereby allowing the locking member 132 to smoothly rotate from the locking position to the releasing position.

[0313] The locking members 132 are arranged in parallel with each other, and the operating members 134 are in contact with the corresponding ridges 132C, which ensures that the locking members 132 are allowed to stably engage the rails 111 .

[0314] Next, a method for assembling the sliding device 101 thus configured will be described.

[0315] The method for assembling the above-mentioned sliding device 101 includes the following steps: attaching the locking member 132, the pushing member 133, and the operating member 134 to the housing 131 to assemble the sliding locking device 130; attaching the housing 131 to the slider 112; and attaching the slider 112 to the rail 111. This method enables an assembler to assemble the sliding locking device 130 in the slider 112 in an efficient manner.

[0316] The step of assembling the slide lock device 130 includes the steps of attaching the push member 133 to the lock member 132, assembling the operation member 134 and the lock member 132 including the push member 133 attached thereto so that the lock member 132 and the operation member 134 are supported by one of the plurality of components of the housing 131, and coupling the plurality of components of the housing 131 to each other. The plurality of components of the housing 131 include a lower housing member 131A and an upper housing member 131B.

[0317] A method for manufacturing each of the above-described respective locking members 132 will be described.

[0318] The locking member 132 may be a one-piece member such as Fig.24 Alternatively, the locking member 132 may be composed of multiple components, such as Fig.24 (B) The use of a locking member 132 composed of a plurality of components facilitates the manufacture of the locking member 132 as desired. Fig.24 (B) shows an example of the locking member 132 composed of multiple components.

[0319] exist Fig.24 In the example shown in (B), the locking member 132 is composed of a shaft 150, a first gear 151, two second gears 152, two third gears 153 and a fourth gear 154. Fig.25As shown, the first gear 151, the second gear 152, the third gear 153 and the fourth gear 154 each have a corresponding protrusion 132B and a cylindrical tube portion 132E. In addition, each of the third gears 153 is provided with a ridge 132C on the outer surface of the cylindrical tube portion 132E, and the fourth gear 154 is provided with a hook portion 132D on the protrusion 132B, and the push member 133 is hooked to the hook portion 132D.

[0320] like Fig.25 As shown, the locking member 132 can be assembled by sequentially press-fitting the shaft 150 into the corresponding inner holes of the fourth gear 154, the two third gears 153, the two second gears 152, and the first gear 151. In some cases, the first to fourth gears 154 can be fixedly welded to the shaft 150 by using a suitable technique such as laser welding.

[0321] (Third Embodiment) A sliding device according to a third embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. The device of the third embodiment includes an electrically driven sliding track, which is provided with a plurality of tracks and a plurality of sliding members slidably supported on the plurality of tracks. The track is connected to a first structure, and the sliding member is connected to a second structure. In the electrically driven sliding track, each of the plurality of sliding members slides about a corresponding track in the plurality of tracks, thereby moving the second structure relative to the first structure. In some examples, the electrically driven sliding track is arranged between a floor and a seat in a vehicle, so that the seat can move relative to the floor. In other examples, the electrically driven sliding track device is arranged between a base and a workpiece fixture, so that the workpiece fixture can move relative to the base.

[0322] Embodiments of an electrically driven sliding track 201 and a vehicle seat 202 including the electrically driven sliding track 201 will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Fig.26 As shown, the vehicle seat 202 includes at least one electrically driven sliding track 201 at the bottom of the vehicle seat, and the vehicle seat 202 is coupled to the vehicle floor 203 with the electrically driven sliding track 201 therebetween. The vehicle seat 202 has a seat cushion 205 for supporting the buttocks of an occupant and a seat back 206 extending upward from the rear of the seat cushion 205 and supporting the back of the occupant. The electrically driven sliding track 201 is disposed between the floor 203 and the seat cushion 205, and slidably supports the seat cushion 205 with respect to the floor 203. The vehicle seat 202 is preferably provided with a pair of electrically driven sliding tracks 201.

[0323] like Fig. 27As shown, the electrically driven sliding track 201 includes a track 211 extending in the front-to-back direction and a sliding member 212 slidably engaged with the track 211. The extension direction of the track 211 may or may not be consistent with the front-to-back direction of the vehicle. In other words, the direction in which the electrically driven sliding track is installed in the vehicle is not limited by the extension direction of the track 211. In the present embodiment, the extension direction of the track 211 is consistent with the front-to-back direction of the vehicle. In the present embodiment, the sliding member 212 is arranged at a position above the track 211. Therefore, the track 211 can be referred to as a lower track, and the sliding member 212 can be referred to as an upper track.

[0324] like Fig.28 and 29 As shown, the rail 211 has a groove-shaped cross section. Specifically, the rail 211 includes: a rail bottom wall 214 having surfaces facing up and down; left and right rail outer side walls 215 extending upward from left and right edges of the rail bottom wall 214 and having surfaces facing left and right; left and right rail top walls 216 extending from upper edges of the left and right rail outer side walls 215 in such a direction that the left and right rail top walls 216 approach each other; and left and right rail inner side walls 217 extending downward from inner ends of the left and right rail top walls 216 and each having surfaces facing left and right. The left and right rail inner side walls 217 correspond to the “first and second side walls” in the appended claims.

[0325] The track bottom wall 214, the left and right track outer side walls 215, the left and right track top walls 216, and the left and right track inner side walls 217 each extend in the front-to-back direction. The left and right track outer side walls 215 and the left and right track inner side walls 217 extend parallel to each other and extend perpendicular to the track bottom wall 214. The lower ends of the left and right track inner side walls 217 are spaced apart from the track bottom wall 214. Formed at the top of each track 211 is a track opening 219 extending in the front-to-back direction. The track opening 209 is defined by the left and right track inner side walls 217. Each of the individual tracks 211 may be formed by pressing a metal sheet. The left and right edge portions of the track bottom wall 214 may have a raised step 221. Each of the left and right steps 221 extends in the front-to-back direction and has a flat top surface.

[0326] Each of the left and right rail inner side walls 217 has a ridge 222 that is raised inward and extends in the front-rear direction. The cross-section of the left and right ridges 222 may be arcuate or trapezoidal in shape. Each of the ridges 222 may be located at a vertical middle position of the corresponding rail inner side wall 217. The upper and lower ends of the left and right rail inner side walls 217 are recessed outward to the left and right from the ridge 222.

[0327] like Fig.28As shown, each of the sliders 212 includes: a plate-like base 225 having surfaces facing up and down, the base 225 being placed along the open end of the corresponding track opening 219; left and right slider inner side walls 226 extending from the left and right side edges of the base 225 to the track bottom wall 214, that is, extending downward; left and right slider lower walls 227 extending outward from the bottom edges of the left and right slider inner side walls 226, respectively; and left and right slider outer walls 228 extending upward from the left and right outer ends of the left and right slider lower walls 227. The left and right slider inner side walls 226 correspond to the “third and fourth side walls” in the appended claims. The base 225, the left and right slider inner side walls 226, the left and right slider lower walls 227, and the left and right slider outer walls 228 extend in the front-rear direction.

[0328] Each of the individual slides 212 can be formed by fastening together a plurality of pressed or rolled metal sheets. The plurality of metal sheets are stacked and fastened together at a position where a base 225 is formed to form the slide 212. In other embodiments, each of the individual slides 212 can be formed by a single pressed or rolled metal sheet. The longitudinal (front-to-back) length of each slide 212 is designed to be shorter than the longitudinal length of the track 211. The slide 212 is connected to the seat cushion 205 at the base 225.

[0329] The base 225 can be placed above the left and right track top walls 216 or below the left and right track top walls 216. The left and right slider inner side walls 226 each have a surface facing the left and right, and are opposite to each other and spaced apart at a certain horizontal distance. The left and right slider inner side walls 226 are arranged between the left and right track inner side walls 217. Each slider inner side wall 226 faces the corresponding track inner side wall 217 on the left and right sides, with a gap between them. Each slider lower wall 227 extends horizontally between the bottom of the track bottom wall 214 and the bottom of the corresponding track inner side wall 217 on both sides. Each slider outer wall 228 is placed between the corresponding track outer side wall 215 and the track inner side wall 217 on both sides. A plurality of wheels 231 are rotatably supported on the outer side of each slider outer wall 228. Each wheel 231 has a rotation axis extending in the left-right direction and rests on the track bottom wall 214. In the present embodiment, each wheel 231 rests on the upper surface of the corresponding step 221 of the rail bottom wall 214. The slider 212 can slide smoothly with respect to the rail 211 by resting on the rail 211 via the wheel 231. In this way, each slider 212 is accommodated on the corresponding rail 211 and slidably engaged therewith. In other embodiments, each slider 112 may be supported on the corresponding rail 211 via a ball bearing or a roller bearing.

[0330] Each of the individual slide members 212 is in the form of a groove defined by a base 225 and left and right slide member inner side walls 226, the groove opening toward the track bottom wall 214, that is, opening downward. Fig.28 and 30 As shown, the screw assembly 235 and the electric motor 236 are supported on the lower surface of the base 225. The electric motor 236 drives the screw assembly 235.

[0331] like Fig.28 and 32 As shown, the spiral assembly 235 includes a connecting shaft 237, spiral components 238 and 239, and a gear housing 241. In this embodiment, the spiral components 238 and 239 include a first spiral component 238 and a second spiral component 239. In other embodiments, the spiral assembly 235 can be a single-piece component. The connecting shaft 237, the first spiral component 238 and the second spiral component 239 are rotatably supported by the gear housing 241.

[0332] The connecting shaft 237 is connected to the output shaft 236A in a manner that allows the connecting shaft 237 to move axially relative to the output shaft 236A of the electric motor 236 and rotate with it. One end of the output shaft 236A and one end of the connecting shaft 237 are connected to each other by a coupling 236B. The coupling 236B allows the connecting shaft 237 to move axially relative to the output shaft 236A within a predetermined range, while limiting the circumferential movement of the connecting shaft 237 relative to the output shaft 236A. In other words, the output shaft 236A and the connecting shaft 237 are allowed to rotate together. For example, the coupling 236B connected to the end of the output shaft 236A has a matching groove opening toward the connecting shaft 237. The matching groove preferably extends in a direction orthogonal to the axis of rotation of the output shaft 236A. The connecting shaft 237 may have a protrusion of a flat shape that fits into the matching groove. The protrusion may be movably fitted into the matching groove on the axial direction of the output shaft 236A.

[0333] The first spiral member 238 and the second spiral member 239 each have spiral lobes 238A and 239A on the outer periphery of the middle portion in the longitudinal direction thereof. Fig.30 As shown, the gear housing 241 is coupled to the slider 212 via a first bracket 242 .

[0334] like Fig.31As shown, the gear housing 241 is formed in the shape of a rectangular box having a long side in the front-to-back direction. The gear housing 241 rotatably supports the first spiral component 238, the second spiral component 239 and the connecting shaft 237. The first spiral component 238, the second spiral component 239 and the connecting shaft 237 each extend in the front-to-back direction and are arranged in the gear housing 241 in parallel with each other. The gear housing 241 has a lower housing 241A and an upper housing 241B coupled to the lower housing 241A. The first spiral component 238, the second spiral component 239 and the connecting shaft 237 are rotatably supported between the lower housing 241A and the upper housing 241B.

[0335] like Fig.32 As shown, the first spiral component 238 and the second spiral component 239 are respectively arranged on the left and right sides of the gear housing 241. The connecting shaft 237 is located between and below the corresponding middle parts of the first spiral component 238 and the second spiral component 239. The connecting shaft 237 has a driving gear 237A in the gear housing 241. The first spiral component 238 has a first gear 238B meshed with the driving gear 237A. The second spiral component 239 has a second gear 239B meshed with the driving gear 237A. The driving gear 237A, the first gear 238B and the second gear 239B can each be a spur gear. When the connecting shaft 237 rotates, the first spiral component 238 and the second spiral component 239 rotate relative to each other in the same direction. In other words, the first spiral component 238 and the second spiral component 239 are connected to the connecting shaft 237 via the driving gear 237A, the first gear 238B and the second gear 239B, and rotate in response to the rotation of the connecting shaft 237. The first gear 238B and the second gear 239B may be symmetrical.

[0336] The connecting shaft 237 has a bevel gear 237B located in the gear housing 241. The bevel gear 237B is preferably coupled to one axial side of the driving gear 237A. Fig.31 As shown, the upper housing 241B has a first opening 241C extending therethrough in a vertical direction. Fig. 27 As shown, the base 225 of the slider 212 has a second opening 225A extending therethrough at a position opposite to the first opening 241C. The bevel gear 237B is exposed above the slider 212 through the first opening 241C and the second opening 225A. This configuration allows an assembler to insert a tool into the gear housing 241 through the first opening 241C and the second opening 225A, and rotate the connecting shaft 237 by using the tool engaged with the bevel gear 237B.

[0337] like Fig.30 and 31As shown, the gear housing 241 has housing openings 248 on both sides to expose the first spiral member 238 and the second spiral member 239. The spiral lobes 238A of the first spiral member 238 protrude leftward through the housing openings 248 formed in the left side of the gear housing 241. Similarly, the spiral lobes 239A of the second spiral member 239 protrude rightward through the housing openings 248 formed in the right side of the gear housing 241.

[0338] The first bracket 242 extends in the front-to-back direction and includes a first joint 242A at the front end and a second joint 242B at the rear end. The first bracket 242 is connected to the lower surface of the base 225 of the sliding member 212 at the first joint 242A and the second joint 242B. The first bracket 242 has a support member 242C extending from the first joint 242A to the second joint 242B. The first bracket 242 is preferably a single metal component including the first joint 242A, the second joint 242B and the support member 242C. The support member 242C has a portion located below the first joint 242A and the second joint 242B. The first bracket 242 cooperates with the base 225 by means of the support member 242C to form a closed structure. The gear housing 241 is arranged between the base 225 of the sliding member 212 and the support member 242C. The first bracket 242 is formed by bending and forming a metal plate. The first joint 242A extends forward from the front of the gear housing 241, and the second joint 242B extends rearward from the rear of the gear housing 241. The joints 242A and 242B are preferably fixed to the base 225 using fasteners such as screws or rivets. The distance between the fixing points of the joints 242A and 242B is longer than the front-to-back length of the gear housing 241.

[0339] The second bracket 251 is provided behind the first bracket 242 to support the electric motor 236 on the base 225 of the slide 212. The second bracket 251 is coupled to the lower surface of the base 225. The second bracket 251 has a groove shape that opens downward and accommodates the electric motor 236. The second bracket 251 has a plurality of claws 251A that engage the electric motor 236. The second bracket 251 also has a plurality of claws 251B that engage the inner side walls 226 of the left and right slides.

[0340] like Fig.32 As shown, the rear end of the connecting shaft 237 protrudes rearward from the gear housing 241. The output shaft 236A of the electric motor 236 extends forward through a through hole formed in the first bracket 242 and is connected to the rear end of the connecting shaft 237 via a coupling 236B.

[0341] A speed reducer may be provided between the output shaft 236A of the electric motor 236 and the connecting shaft 237. An example of the speed reducer may include a planetary gear mechanism.

[0342] like Fig.28 As shown, the spiral assembly 235, the electric motor 236, the first bracket 242 and the second bracket 251 are arranged below the base 225 and between the left and right slider inner side walls 226. The left and right slider inner side walls 226 each have a slider opening 255, which is an opening that exposes the corresponding spiral assembly 235. Each of the respective slider openings 255 is formed in the corresponding slider inner side wall 226. The left portion of the spiral convex corner 238A of the first spiral member 238 protrudes leftward from the left slider inner side wall 226, passing through the housing opening 248 on the left side of the gear housing 241 and the slider opening 255 of the left slider inner side wall 226. Similarly, the right portion of the spiral convex corner 239A of the second spiral member 239 protrudes rightward from the right slider inner side wall 226, passing through the housing opening 248 on the right side of the gear housing 241 and the slider opening 255 on the right slider inner side wall 226.

[0343] like Figures 27 to 29 As shown, the track 211 has spiral engaging portions 257 and 258 extending in the front-to-back direction and engaging with the spiral components 238 and 239. The spiral engaging portions 257 and 258 include a first spiral engaging portion 257 and a second spiral engaging portion 258, wherein the first spiral engaging portion 257 is formed in the inner wall 217 of the left track and engages with the spiral cam 238A of the first spiral component 238, and the second spiral engaging portion 258 is formed in the inner wall 217 of the right track and engages with the spiral cam 239A of the second spiral component 239. The first spiral engaging portion 257 and the second spiral engaging portion 258 are formed in the ridge 222 of the corresponding inner wall 217 of the track. The first spiral engaging portion 257 and the second spiral engaging portion 258 include a plurality of engaging holes 259 formed in a row in the corresponding ridge 222 in the front-to-back direction. As shown Fig.28 As shown, the first spiral component 238 is engaged with the plurality of engagement holes 259 of the first spiral engagement portion 257 at the left side of the spiral convex angle 238A of the first spiral component 238, and rotates about the longitudinal axis to move in the front-to-back direction relative to the first spiral engagement portion 257. Similarly, the second spiral component 239 is engaged with the plurality of engagement holes 259 of the second spiral engagement portion 258 at the right side of the spiral convex angle 239A of the second spiral component 239, and rotates about the longitudinal axis to move in the front-to-back direction relative to the second spiral engagement portion 258.

[0344] like Fig.32As shown, the screw assembly 235 includes an actuator 261 that moves the connecting shaft 237 along its axial direction, a first engaging portion 262 provided in the gear housing 241, and a second engaging portion 263 provided on the connecting shaft 237. A flange 264A is provided on the connecting shaft 237. The flange 264A is preferably formed as a disk with the connecting shaft 237 as its center. The flange 264A is preferably provided on a protrusion of the connecting shaft 237, and the protrusion protrudes backward from the gear housing 241. The flange 264A is provided so that the flange is not rotatable relative to the connecting shaft 237 and is not movable in the axial direction of the connecting shaft 237.

[0345] The actuator 261 is preferably a solenoid actuator that can extend and retract in the axial direction of the connecting shaft 237. The actuator 261 is preferably arranged between the gear housing 241 and the electric motor 236. The actuator 261 is preferably arranged parallel to the connecting shaft 237 and arranged transversely to the connecting shaft 237. This configuration allows the actuator 261 to be arranged around the connecting shaft 237 in a space-saving manner. The actuator 261 can be supported by the gear housing 241, the first bracket 242, or the second bracket 251. The actuator 261 can also be supported by the slider 212.

[0346] The connecting shaft 237 is supported by the gear housing 241 in such a manner that the connecting shaft 237 is movable between the first position and the second position in its axial direction. The connecting shaft 237 contacts the stopper 266 so that the moving range of the connecting shaft 237 is limited at the first and second positions. The stopper 266 may be provided on the gear housing 241 or the slide 212. When the connecting shaft 237 moves from the first position to the second position, the connecting shaft 237 moves away from the electric motor 236 in the axial direction. At the first and second positions, the connection between the connecting shaft 237 and the output shaft 236A is maintained, and the connecting shaft 237 rotates together with the output shaft 236A. In other words, regardless of the position of the connecting shaft 237, the connecting shaft 237 and the output shaft 236A always rotate together. In addition, at the first and second positions, the driving gear 237A remains engaged with the first gear 238B and the second gear 239B. In other words, regardless of the position of the connecting shaft 237, the connecting shaft 237, the first spiral component 238 and the second spiral component 239 always rotate together.

[0347] The spiral assembly 235 includes a pushing component 265 that pushes the connecting shaft 237 to the first position. Examples of the pushing component 265 may include a compression coil spring, a tension coil spring, a leaf spring, and a torsion spring. One end of the pushing component 265 is preferably in contact with the flange 264A of the connecting shaft 237. The other end of the pushing component 265 is preferably in contact or connected with any one of the slide 212, the gear housing 241, the electric motor 236, the first bracket 242, and the second bracket 251. In the present embodiment, the pushing component 265 is a compression coil spring and is in contact with the flange 264A and the first bracket 242. The pushing component 265 can be arranged transversely to the actuator 261.

[0348] like Fig.34 As shown, the first engaging portion 262 is preferably a plurality of protrusions formed in the gear housing 241. The first engaging portion 262 is preferably provided on the inner periphery of a through hole formed in the rear wall of the gear housing 241 for supporting the connecting shaft 237. In addition, the second engaging portion 263 is preferably a plurality of protrusions formed on the outer surface of the connecting shaft 237. The second engaging portion 263 is preferably provided on the connecting shaft 237 and between the driving gear 237A and the rear wall of the gear housing 241.

[0349] When the connecting shaft 237 is in the first position, the first engaging portion 262 and the second engaging portion 263 engage with each other, which restricts the rotation of the connecting shaft 237 relative to the gear housing 241. When the connecting shaft 237 is in the first position, the first engaging portion 262 and the second engaging portion 263 contact each other along the circumference of the connecting shaft 237. When the connecting shaft 237 is in the second position, the first engaging portion 262 and the second engaging portion 263 are separated from each other, which allows the connecting shaft 237 to rotate relative to the gear housing 241. When the connecting shaft 237 is in the second position, the first engaging portion 262 and the second engaging portion 263 are separated from each other in the axial direction of the connecting shaft 237. As a result, the second engaging portion 263 does not contact the first engaging portion 262, which allows the connecting shaft 237 to rotate relative to the gear housing 241.

[0350] The actuator 261 pushes the flange 264A to move the connecting shaft 237 from the first position to the second position. The actuator 261 pushes the flange 264A in the axial direction of the connecting shaft 237.

[0351] like Fig.35As shown, the electric motor 236 and the actuator 261 of each of the left and right electrically driven sliding rails 201 are controlled by a control unit 267. The control unit 267 is an electronic control device, or a computing device having a microprocessor (MPU), a non-volatile memory, a volatile memory, and an interface. The control unit 267 causes the microprocessor to execute a program stored in the non-volatile memory to execute various application software. The control unit 267 is connected to an operation switch 268. The operation switch 268 receives an input operation of the user and outputs a signal corresponding to the input operation to the control unit 267. The operation switch 268 outputs a signal corresponding to a forward operation corresponding to the forward movement of the sliding member 212 and a backward operation corresponding to the backward movement of the sliding member 212. The operation switch 268 continues to output a signal while receiving a user operation.

[0352] When the operation switch 268 is not operated, the control unit 267 does not operate the electric motor 236 or the actuator 261. In the initial state where the actuator 261 is not operated, Fig.32 As shown, the connecting shaft 237 is in the first position due to the urging force from the urging member 265. In the initial state, the first engaging portion 262 and the second engaging portion 263 engage with each other, which restricts the rotation of the connecting shaft 237, and also restricts the rotation of the first spiral member 238 and the second spiral member 239. As a result, the position of the first spiral member 238 relative to the first spiral engaging portion 257 is maintained, and the position of the second spiral member 239 relative to the second spiral engaging portion 258 is maintained, and the movement of the slider 212 relative to the rail 211 is restricted. Therefore, even when an external load is applied to the slider 212 in the front-rear direction via the seat cushion 205, the slider 212 is prevented from moving relative to the rail 211.

[0353] When the user wants to move the vehicle seat 202 forward or backward, the operation switch 268 is operated accordingly. When being operated, the operation switch 268 continues to output a signal to the control unit 267. When receiving the signal from the operation switch 268, the control unit 267 extends the actuator 261. As a result, the actuator 261 pushes the flange 264A, and as shown in FIG. Fig.33As shown, the connecting shaft 237 moves from the first position to the second position, which releases the engagement between the first engaging portion 262 and the second engaging portion 263. The state in which this engagement is released is called an unlocked state. Then, the control unit 267 operates the electric motor 236. As a result, the electric motor 236 rotates, which rotates the output shaft 236A, the connecting shaft 237, the first spiral component 238 and the second spiral component 239. Therefore, the first spiral component 238 and the second spiral component 239 rotate in the same direction. When the first spiral component 238 and the second spiral component 239 rotate, the first spiral component 238 and the second spiral component 239 move forward or backward relative to the first spiral engaging portion 257 and the second spiral engaging portion 258, respectively, so that the slide 212 moves forward or backward relative to the track 211.

[0354] When the user stops the operation of the operation switch 268, the control unit 267 stops the electric motor 236 and then stops the actuator 261. As a result, the connecting shaft 237 moves from the second position to the first position due to the urging force of the urging member 265.

[0355] In the above embodiment of the electrically driven sliding track 201, when the connecting shaft 237 is in the first position, the first engaging portion 262 and the second engaging portion 263 engage with each other to limit the rotation of the connecting shaft 237. This limits the rotation of the first spiral component 238 and the second spiral component 239 to prevent the sliding member 212 from moving relative to the track 211. In other words, one aspect of the present invention provides an electrically driven sliding track 201 that is capable of maintaining the position of the sliding member 212 against an external load.

[0356] Furthermore, the actuator 261 and the pushing member 265 are placed parallel to and transverse to the connecting shaft 237 , which allows the actuator 261 and the pushing member 265 to be placed on the slider 212 in a space-saving manner.

[0357] Next, a modification of the third embodiment described above will be described below. Fig.36 and 37 2 shows an example of a modified form of the first engaging portion 262 and the second engaging portion 263. The first engaging portion 262 may be a fitting hole formed in the gear housing 241. Fig.36 As shown, the first engaging portion 262 may be formed to have a cross-sectional shape of a polygon such as a regular hexagon. The connecting shaft 237 extends through the through hole and has a first engaging portion 262 protruding from its periphery. The first engaging portion 262 is preferably formed to engage with the second engaging portion 263 so as to be non-rotatable. When the connecting shaft 237 is in the first position, the first engaging portion 262 engages with the second engaging portion 263, and when the connecting shaft 237 is in the second position, the first engaging portion 262 disengages from the second engaging portion 263.

[0358] like Fig.37 As shown, the first engaging portion 262 and the second engaging portion 263 may form a spline hole and a spline shaft, respectively, which are formed to be assembled together.

[0359] like Fig.38 As shown, according to the first modification, the front end of the connecting shaft 237 protrudes forward from the gear housing 241. A flange 264A is provided at the front end of the connecting shaft 237 so that the flange 264A is rotatable but immovable in the axial direction. In other words, the flange 264A is provided at the end of the connecting shaft 237 opposite to the other end connected to the output shaft 236A. The pushing component 265 is connected between the flange 264A and the front end of the gear housing 241 or the first bracket 242. The pushing component 265 is a tension coil spring. The pushing component 265 applies a backward force on the connecting shaft 237. The actuator 261 is provided between the flange 264A and the front end of the gear housing 241 or the first bracket 242, and is capable of pushing the flange 264A forward. In other words, both the pushing component 265 and the actuator 261 are provided between the flange 264A and the front end of the gear housing 241. The first engaging portion 262 is preferably provided at the front and rear ends of the gear housing 241. The second engaging portion 263 is preferably provided at positions corresponding to the front and rear first engaging portions 262. Fig.38 In the embodiment, the connecting shaft 237 is in the first position, and the first engaging portion 262 and the second engaging portion 263 engage with each other. The connecting shaft 237 moves forward from the first position to the second position. When the connecting shaft 237 is in the second position, the first engaging portion 262 and the second engaging portion 263 disengage from each other, and the connecting shaft 237 becomes rotatable.

[0360] like Fig.39 As shown, according to the second variant, the flange 264A is provided on the connecting shaft 237 so that the flange 264A is rotatable but immovable in the axial direction. The flange 264A is provided at the rear end of the connecting shaft 237, where the connecting shaft 237 protrudes rearward from the gear housing 241. The pushing component 265 is connected between the flange 264A and the front end of the gear housing 241 or the first bracket 242. The pushing component 265 is a tension coil spring. The pushing component 265 applies a forward force on the connecting shaft 237. The front end of the connecting shaft 237 protrudes forward from the front ends of the gear housing 241 and the first bracket 242. The actuator 261 is arranged coaxially with the connecting shaft 237 and pushes the front end of the connecting shaft 237 backward. The first engaging portion 262 is preferably provided at the front and rear ends of the gear housing 241. The second engaging portion 263 is preferably provided at positions corresponding to the front and rear first engaging portions 262. In Fig.39In the embodiment, the connecting shaft 237 is in the first position, and the first engaging portion 262 and the second engaging portion 263 engage with each other. The connecting shaft 237 moves backward from the first position to the second position. When the connecting shaft 237 is in the second position, the first engaging portion 262 and the second engaging portion 263 disengage from each other, and the connecting shaft 237 becomes rotatable.

[0361] like Fig.40 As shown, according to the third modification, the front end of the connecting shaft 237 protrudes forward from the gear housing 241. A flange 264A is provided at the front end of the connecting shaft 237 so that the flange 264A is rotatable but immovable in the axial direction. A support wall 271 is provided in front of the flange 264A and is connected to the slide 212 or the first bracket 242. A pushing component 265 is connected to the flange 264A and the support wall 271. The pushing component 265 is a tension coil spring. The pushing component 265 applies a forward force on the connecting shaft 237. The actuator 261 is provided on the support wall 271 and is capable of pushing the flange 264A backward. In other words, both the pushing component 265 and the actuator 261 are provided between the flange 264A and the support wall 271. The first engaging portion 262 is preferably provided at the front and rear ends of the gear housing 241. The second engaging portion 263 is preferably provided at a position corresponding to the front and rear first engaging portions 262. exist Fig.40 In the embodiment, the connecting shaft 237 is in the first position, and the first engaging portion 262 and the second engaging portion 263 engage with each other. The connecting shaft 237 moves backward from the first position to the second position. When the connecting shaft 237 is in the second position, the first engaging portion 262 and the second engaging portion 263 disengage from each other, and the connecting shaft 237 becomes rotatable.

[0362] like Fig.41 As shown, according to the fourth modification, the front end of the connecting shaft 237 protrudes forward from the gear housing 241. The rear flange 264B is arranged at the rear end of the connecting shaft 237, and the front flange 264C is arranged at the front end of the connecting shaft 237. The rear flange 264B and the front flange 264C are arranged at the rear and front ends of the connecting shaft 237, so that the rear flange 264B and the front flange 264C are rotatable but immovable in the axial direction. The pushing component 265 is connected between the front flange 264C and the front end of the gear housing 241 or the first bracket 242. The pushing component 265 is a tension coil spring. The pushing component 265 applies a backward force on the connecting shaft 237. The actuator 261 is arranged between the rear flange 264B and the second bracket 251, and is capable of pushing the rear flange 264B forward. In other words, the first engaging portion 262 is preferably arranged at the front and rear ends of the gear housing 241. The second engaging portion 263 is preferably disposed at a position corresponding to the front and rear first engaging portions 262. Fig.41In the embodiment, the connecting shaft 237 is in the first position, and the first engaging portion 262 and the second engaging portion 263 engage with each other. The connecting shaft 237 moves forward from the first position to the second position. When the connecting shaft 237 is in the second position, the first engaging portion 262 and the second engaging portion 263 disengage from each other, and the connecting shaft 237 becomes rotatable.

[0363] like Fig.42 As shown, according to the fifth variation, the flange 264A is arranged at the rear end of the connecting shaft 237, so that the flange 264A is rotatable but immovable in the axial direction. The pushing component 265 is connected between the flange 264A and the second bracket 251. The pushing component 265 is a tension coil spring. The pushing component 265 exerts a backward force on the connecting shaft 237. The actuator 261 is arranged on the second bracket 251 and is capable of pushing the flange 264A forward. In other words, the pushing component 265 and the actuator 261 are arranged between the flange 264A and the second bracket 251. The first engaging portion 262 is preferably arranged at the front and rear ends of the gear housing 241. The second engaging portion 263 is preferably arranged at positions corresponding to the front and rear first engaging portions 262. Fig.42 In the embodiment, the connecting shaft 237 is in the first position, and the first engaging portion 262 and the second engaging portion 263 engage with each other. The connecting shaft 237 moves forward from the first position to the second position. When the connecting shaft 237 is in the second position, the first engaging portion 262 and the second engaging portion 263 disengage from each other, and the connecting shaft 237 becomes rotatable.

[0364] like Fig.43As shown, according to the sixth modification, the rear flange 264B is arranged at the rear end of the connecting shaft 237, so that the rear flange 264B is rotatable but immovable in the axial direction. In the gear housing 241, the intermediate flange 264D is arranged on the connecting shaft 237, so that the intermediate flange 264D is not rotatable and is not movable in the axial direction. In other embodiments, the intermediate flange 264D can be rotatable but immovable in the axial direction. The support wall 277 is arranged in the gear housing 241, and the pushing component 265 contacts the support wall 277 and the intermediate flange 264D. The pushing component 265 is a compression coil spring wound on the connecting shaft 237, and supports the connecting shaft 237. The ends of the pushing component 265 are slidably contacted with the support wall 277 and the intermediate flange 264D respectively. The intermediate flange 264D is located behind the support wall 277. The pushing member 265 applies a backward force on the middle flange 264D and the connecting shaft 237. The actuator 261 is provided at the front end of the electric motor 236 or the second bracket 251, and pushes the rear flange 264A forward. The first engaging portion 262 is preferably provided at the front and rear ends of the gear housing 241. The second engaging portion 263 is preferably provided at positions corresponding to the front and rear first engaging portions 262. Fig.43 In the embodiment, the connecting shaft 237 is in the first position, and the first engaging portion 262 and the second engaging portion 263 engage with each other. The connecting shaft 237 moves forward from the first position to the second position. When the connecting shaft 237 is in the second position, the first engaging portion 262 and the second engaging portion 263 disengage from each other, and the connecting shaft 237 becomes rotatable.

[0365] (Fourth embodiment) A sliding device according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described. The device of the fourth embodiment includes a seat system used in a vehicle having two rows of seats in the front-rear direction. In the following description, the front, rear, right, left, upper, and lower directions are defined relative to the front-rear direction of the vehicle.

[0366] like Fig.44 and 45 As shown in (A), the seat system 301 includes a plurality of vehicle seats 303 ( Fig.44 ), a sensor 305 ( Fig.45 (A)) and a notification device 307 for providing notification to the interior of the vehicle. Fig.45 (A)), and a control unit 309 ( Fig.45 (A)).

[0367] like Fig.44 , 45As shown in FIGS. 45(A) and 45(B), the vehicle is provided with a pair of vehicle seats 303A in the front row and a pair of vehicle seats 303B in the rear row. Each vehicle seat 303 is placed on a floor 313 that partially defines a vehicle interior 311 of the vehicle.

[0368] In the following description, the general configuration of the vehicle seat 303 will first be described with reference to an example in which the vehicle seat 303 is placed on the floor 313 so that a user sitting in the seat faces forward, as shown in FIG. Fig.44 , 45 (A) and 45 (B).

[0369] Each of the vehicle seats 303 is equipped with a seat body 315 ( Fig.44 ), a driving unit 317 ( Fig.46 ).

[0370] like Fig.44 , 45 As shown in FIGS. 45A and 45B, the seat body 315 is provided with a seat cushion 319 and a seat back 321 supported by the rear of the seat cushion 319. The seat cushion 319 supports the user's buttocks from below, and the seat back 321 supports the user's back from behind. A headrest 323 is provided at the top of the seat back 321.

[0371] In this embodiment, if Fig.44 As shown, a footrest 325 is provided in the seat body 315 of each seat to serve as a footrest. An armrest 327 is rotatably coupled to the outer side of the seat back 321. In addition, a side cover 329 is provided on the outer side of the seat cushion 319. An armrest 331 having a cup holder 330 is also fixed to the inner side of the seat back 321.

[0372] The driving unit 317 (also referred to as a plurality of driving units or simply referred to as a driving device) includes various actuators such as an electric motor, and moves and / or deforms the seat body 315. Fig.46 As shown, the driving unit 317 includes a sliding driving unit 335 , a tilting driving unit 337 , a rotating driving unit 339 and a tilting driving unit 341 .

[0373] The sliding drive unit 335 makes the seat body 315 slide parallel to the floor 313. Specifically, as Fig.45 and 47 (A) shows in detail that the sliding mechanism 345 is provided between the seat body 315 and the floor 313. The seat body 315 is connected to the floor 313 via the sliding mechanism 345, and the seat body 315 can slide in the front-rear direction relative to the floor 313. The sliding drive unit 335 ( Fig.46) drives the sliding mechanism 345 to slide the seat body 315 in the front-rear direction.

[0374] The tilt drive unit 337 rotates (tilts) the seat back 321 relative to the seat cushion 319. Fig.45 and 47 (B) As shown in detail, a tilt mechanism 347 is provided between the seat cushion 319 and the seat back 321. The seat back 321 is connected to the seat cushion 319 via the tilt mechanism 347, and the seat back 321 is connected to the seat cushion 319 so as to allow the seat cushion 319 to rotate around a rotation axis Y0 extending in the left-right direction at the rear end of the seat cushion 319. The tilt drive unit 337 ( Fig.46 ) drives the reclining mechanism 347 to rotate the seat back 321 relative to the seat cushion 319, thereby causing the seat back 321 to be tilted relative to the seat cushion 319 or placed in its upright position.

[0375] The rotation drive unit 339 rotates the seat body 315 relative to the floor 313, so that the seat body moves between the forward facing state and the rearward facing state. Fig.45 and Fig.47 As shown in FIG. 34 , a rotation mechanism 349 is provided between the seat body 315 and the floor 313. Since the seat body 315 is connected to the floor 313 via the rotation mechanism 349, the seat body 315 can rotate relative to the floor 313 around a vertical axis Z extending in the up-down direction (vertical direction). The rotation drive unit 339 ( Fig.46 ) drives the rotating mechanism 349 to rotate the seat body 315 around the vertical axis Z.

[0376] The tilting drive unit 341 (also referred to as the tilt-up drive unit) moves the seat cushion 319 between a position in which the seat surface 319A is substantially horizontal (hereinafter referred to as the horizontal position) and a position in which the front end of the seat surface 319A is lifted (tilted upward) to be higher than the rear end, that is, the seat surface 319A is flipped upward (hereinafter referred to as the lifted position; also referred to as the lifted position). Fig.45 and 48 As shown in (A), the seat body 315 is provided with a tilting mechanism 351 (also referred to as a tilt-up mechanism) for allowing the seat cushion 319 to move between a horizontal position and a raised position. The tilting drive unit 341 drives the tilting mechanism 351 to rotate the seat cushion 319 around the rotation axis Y1, thereby moving the seat cushion 319 between the horizontal position and the raised position.

[0377] In this embodiment, a hinge mechanism 353 (also referred to as a backrest surface adjustment mechanism) is provided to allow the front portion of the seat back 321 to be deformed to fit the body shape of the occupant. Fig.45 and48 As shown in (B), the hinge mechanism 353 rotates the upper front portion of the seat back 321 around the rotation axis Y2, thereby allowing the upper front portion of the seat back to tilt. In other words, the upper front portion of the seat back 321 is freely movable between an initial position in which the upper front portion extends in a substantially vertical direction and a forward tilting position in which the upper front portion tilts forward. The seat body 315 is provided with a hinge drive unit 355 for driving the hinge mechanism 353.

[0378] In addition, when the footrest 325 is provided on the seat body 315, the footrest 325 may be connected to the front end of the seat cushion 319 at the top end via the footrest driving mechanism 357 so that the footrest 325 can rotate around the central axis extending in the left-right direction. Fig.48 As shown in (C), the driving unit 317 may include an ottoman driving unit 359 for rotating the ottoman 325 relative to the seat cushion 319.

[0379] like Fig.46 As shown, each of the individual sensors 305 detects information about objects located around the associated vehicle seat 303 by acquiring an image and measuring the distance to the objects in the vehicle interior 311 , and outputs the information to the control unit 309 .

[0380] like Fig.45 As shown, each of the individual sensors 305 may include a camera 361 (interior camera) that captures an image of the vehicle interior 311. In this case, the camera 361 is arranged to face the vehicle interior 311 at the left front corner, the right front corner, the left rear corner, and the right rear corner of the vehicle ceiling that partially defines the upper surface of the vehicle interior 311. The imaging area of ​​the camera 361 at the left front corner of the ceiling covers the moving range of the seat body 315 of the left front seat, and the imaging range of the camera 361 at the right front corner of the ceiling covers the moving range of the seat body 315 of the right front seat. The imaging range of the camera 361 at the left rear corner of the ceiling covers the moving range of the seat body 315 of the left rear seat, and the imaging range of the camera 361 at the right rear corner of the ceiling covers the moving range of the seat body 315 of the right rear seat. Each of the individual cameras 361 may be a camera using a CMOS image sensor. Preferably, each of the individual cameras 361 is mainly composed of a compound eye camera including a plurality of image sensors, and is capable of performing distance imaging based on triangulation, such as stereo measurement and light slicing.

[0381] In other embodiments, each of the individual sensors 305 may be primarily composed of a distance measuring sensor 363 disposed in the associated seat body 315. The distance measuring sensor 363 may be composed of a time-of-flight (ToF) sensor 305 module that measures distance by acquiring the time it takes for light emitted from a light source to reach a detector. For example, the individual sensors 305 may be disposed at a position along the outer surface of the associated seat cushion 319, or the sensor may be disposed at an appropriate position on the headrest 323 of the associated seat. In other cases, the individual sensors 305 may be arranged in a row along the front-to-rear direction on the corresponding door panel 364 ( Fig.44 ) or on floor 313.

[0382] In other cases, such as Fig.46 As shown, the sensor 305 can mainly include a driving amount sensor 365, which is respectively arranged in the sliding driving unit 335, the tilting driving unit 337, the rotating driving unit 339, the flipping driving unit 341, the hinged driving unit 355 and the footrest driving unit 359, and obtains the driving amount of the corresponding driving unit 317. Fig.45 (B) shows an example in which the driving amount sensor 365 is provided to detect the driving amount of the corresponding slide driving unit 335 .

[0383] The notification device 307 provides notification to the vehicle interior 311 by sound or using a screen display. Fig.45 As shown in FIG. 2A , each of the notification devices 307 may be a speaker 367 that emits sound toward the vehicle interior 311 or a display 369 that is installed in the vehicle interior 311 and displays an image. The speaker 367 may be installed in the door panel 364 or in the headrest 323 .

[0384] The control unit 309 is an electronic control unit (ECU) that controls the vehicle seat 303 based on the information acquired by the sensor 305. Fig.46 As shown, the control unit 309 is constructed as a computer, and the computer includes a processor 371 such as a CPU (central processing unit), a memory 377 such as a RAM 373 (random access memory) and a ROM 375 (read only memory), and a storage device 379 such as an SSD (solid state drive) or an HDD (hard disk drive). The control unit 309 is connected to each sensor 305 and a drive unit 317 through a signal line. The drive unit 317 and the control unit 309 are connected to a battery (not shown) installed in the vehicle and supplying power to these units. The control unit 309 is constructed to obtain information related to the seat body 315 of each vehicle seat 303, such as the position of the seat body 315 in the front-rear direction, the position and posture of the seat back 321, and the position and posture of the seat cushion 319 based on the information obtained by the various sensors 305.

[0385] When receiving the command signal indicating the predetermined switching operation, the control unit 309 drives the vehicle seat 303 according to the command signal to selectively change the posture of the seat body 315 of each vehicle seat. For example, the control unit 309 controls the drive unit 317 to change the operation mode of the seat system between the normal mode and the relaxation mode. In the normal mode, the seat bodies 315 of the front and rear seats are facing forward ( Fig.44 and 45 (B)), in the relaxation mode, the seat bodies 315 of the front seats face forward and the seat bodies 315 of the rear seats face backward ( Fig.50 (A)). The command signal may be sent from a vehicle control device that controls the vehicle based on user input to the instrument panel or display 369. The command signal may also be sent from a vehicle control device that enables the vehicle to be autonomous when the driving mode is switched between a manual driving mode and an automatic driving mode.

[0386] Upon receiving a predetermined indication signal, the control unit 309 (processor 371) controls each of the drive units 317 by executing a switching operation program to switch the operation mode of the seat system from the relaxation mode to the normal mode. The control unit 309 executes a control program for executing the switching operation and implements a method for controlling the vehicle seat 303 to rotate the seat body 315 around the corresponding vertical axis Z of a plurality of vehicle seats placed on the floor 313.

[0387] The following will refer to Fig.49 The flowchart shown in describes the details of the switching operation.

[0388] In step ST1, i.e., the first step of the switching operation, the control unit 309 acquires the position and posture of all the seat bodies 315 based on the information about the objects located around each of the respective seat bodies 315 acquired by the corresponding sensors 305. Then, the control unit 309 determines whether the rear seat bodies 315, i.e., the seat bodies of the rear vehicle seats, are rotatable in a non-interference manner; i.e., whether each of the respective rear seat bodies 315 can be rotated without contact with any of the respective front seat bodies 315. When it is determined that the respective rear seat bodies 315 are rotatable without interference, the control unit 309 executes step ST2. When it is determined that the respective rear seat bodies 315 are not rotatable in a non-interference manner, the control unit 309 executes step ST3.

[0389] In step ST2, the control unit 309 rotates each rear seat body 315 by driving the corresponding rotation drive unit 339 until each of the rear seat bodies is in a forward facing position. In other words, in step ST2, the control unit 309 allows the rotation drive unit 339 of each of the rear seat bodies 315 to operate so that the rotation drive unit 339 rotates each rear seat body 315 until it is in a forward facing position. When each of the rear seat bodies 315 is in a forward facing position, the control unit 309 performs step ST4.

[0390] In step ST3, the control unit 309 determines whether the seat cushion 319 of the seat body 315 of each of the rear seats will contact the object located nearby when each of the rear seats rotates, based on the information about the object located nearby the rear seat body 315 acquired by the sensor 305. When it is determined that the rear seat body 315 will contact the object, the control unit 309 executes step ST5, otherwise the control unit 309 executes step ST6.

[0391] In step ST4, the control unit 309 acquires the position and posture of each of all the seat bodies 315, and drives the drive unit 317 to adjust the position and posture of each seat body 315 to a position and posture suitable for the occupant to sit on the seat. (This state (position and posture) is hereinafter referred to as "sitting position") When the adjustment is completed, the control unit 309 ends the switching operation.

[0392] In step ST5, the control unit 309 drives the flip-up drive unit 341 of each of the rear seats to change the position of the seat cushion 319 of the rear seat body 315 from the horizontal position to the raised position. When the position of the seat cushion 319 is changed to the raised position, the control unit 309 performs step ST6.

[0393] In step ST6, the control unit 309 determines whether the seat back 321 of each rear seat body 315 will contact the object located nearby when each of the rear seat bodies 315 rotates, based on the information about the object located nearby acquired by the sensor 305. In step ST6, the control unit 309 preferably newly acquires the detection result of the sensor 305 to make the determination. When it is determined that the seat back will contact the object located nearby, the control unit 309 executes step ST7, otherwise, the control unit 309 executes step ST8.

[0394] In step ST7, the control unit 309 drives each tilt driving unit 337 to lift up the seat back 321 of each front seat body 315 and the seat back of each rear seat body 315. When all the seat backs 321 are placed in the upright position, the control unit 309 performs step ST8.

[0395] In step ST8, the control unit 309 determines whether sliding the front seat body 315 forward and sliding the rear seat body 315 backward will enable the respective rear seat bodies 315 to rotate around their respective vertical axes Z, based on information of objects located near the respective seat bodies 315 acquired by the sensor 305. In step ST8, the control unit 309 preferably newly acquires the detection result of the sensor 305 to make the determination. When it is determined that the sliding movement of the front and rear seat bodies will enable the respective rear seat bodies to rotate, the control unit 309 executes step ST9, otherwise the control unit 309 executes step ST10.

[0396] In step ST9, the control unit 309 drives the respective slide drive units 335 to move the front seat body 315 and the rear seat body 315 to respective rotational positions at which the front and rear seat bodies 315 can rotate about their vertical axes Z. When moving the seat bodies 315 to the rotational positions, the control unit 309 preferably moves the front seat body 315 forward and moves the rear seat body 315 backward, for example.

[0397] When the sliding movement of the front seat body 315 and the rear seat body 315 is completed, the control unit 309 performs step ST2.

[0398] In step ST8, when it is determined that each rear seat body 315 will be rotated without sliding movement of the front and rear seat bodies 315 based on information obtained by the sensor 305 about objects located near each of the respective seat bodies 315, the process can proceed to step ST2, where the control unit 309 executes step ST2 without executing step 9 of driving the sliding drive unit 335.

[0399] In step ST10, the control unit 309 provides a notification to the vehicle interior that the operation mode of the seat system is switched from the relaxation mode to the normal mode using the notification device 307. When the notification device 307 includes the speaker 367, in step ST10, the control unit 309 may generate a sound from the speaker 367 to provide a notification that switching the operation mode is impossible. When the notification device 307 includes the display 369, in step ST10, the control unit 309 may cause the display 369 to display a notification that switching the operation mode is impossible. When the notification is completed, the control unit 309 ends the switching operation.

[0400] Next, the operation of the seat system 301 thus constructed will be described.

[0401] The operation of the seat system will be described below with reference to an example in which the front seat body 315 and the rear seat body 315 are close to each other, and the operations required for the rotation of the rear seat body 315 include all of the following operations: operations that cause the seat cushion 319 to be flipped up (flipped up), operations that place the seat back 321 in an upright position, and operations that cause sliding movement of the seat body.

[0402] When receiving a transition from Relax Mode ( Fig.50 (A)) Switch to normal mode (see Fig.51 (C)) when the control unit 309 starts the switching operation.

[0403] In step ST1 (the first step of the switching operation), the control unit 309 may determine whether the rear seat body 315 is rotatable without interference based on the information acquired by the sensor 305. When it is determined that the rear seat body 315 is rotatable without interference (yes in ST1), the control unit 309 causes the rotation of the rear seat body 315 (ST2).

[0404] In step ST1, the control unit 309 may determine that the rear seat body 315 is not rotatable in an interference-free manner (NO in ST1), and therefore the seat cushion 319 will contact other objects when rotating (YES in ST3). Fig.50 As shown in (B), the control unit 309 drives the tilting drive unit 341 of the rear seat body 315 to move the rear seat cushion 319 to the raised position (ST5).

[0405] After the rear seat cushion 319 is in the raised position, the control unit 309 may determine that the rear seat back 321 is still in contact with the front seat back 321 when rotating (Yes in ST6). Fig.50 As shown in (C), the control unit 309 drives the respective tilt driving units 337 of the front and rear seats, and the respective tilt driving units 337 place the respective seat backs 321 in the upright position (ST7).

[0406] After the seat back 321 is placed in the upright position, the control unit 309 determines whether sliding the front seat and / or the rear seat in the front-to-back direction will enable the rear seat to rotate in a non-interference manner (ST8). When it is determined that the rear seat can rotate in a non-interference manner, the control unit 309 slides the front and rear seat bodies 315 away from each other, such as Fig.51 (A) as shown (ST9).

[0407] Then, if Fig.51As shown in (B), the control unit 309 allows the rotation of the rear seat body 315, and the rotation drive unit 339 rotates the rear seat body 315 (ST2). Fig.51 As shown in (C), the control unit 309 adjusts the front and rear seat bodies 315 to positions and postures suitable for the occupants to sit in the seats (ST4), thereby completing the switching operation.

[0408] Next, the effects of the seat system 301 thus constructed will be described.

[0409] The control unit 309 determines whether any one of the seat bodies 315 is rotatable without interference based on the information acquired by the sensor 305, and when it is determined that the seat body 315 is rotatable without interference, the control unit 309 allows the seat body 315 to rotate. This prevents the seat body 315 of the rear seat from contacting another object (e.g., the front seat body 315) located nearby during rotation.

[0410] When the front seat body 315 and the corresponding rear seat body 315 are close to each other, the control unit 309 moves the rear seat cushion 319 to tilt upward to the raised position as needed (ST5). When the seat cushion 319 is in the raised position, the seat cushion 319 is closer to the vertical axis Z than when the seat cushion 319 is not in the raised position, resulting in a reduction in the rotation radius of the rear seat body 315. This means that the rear seat body 315 becomes less likely to contact another object located nearby during rotation.

[0411] When the front seat body 315 and the corresponding rear seat body 315 are close to each other, the control unit 309 drives the tilt drive unit 337 of the front and rear seats to rotate the seat backs 321 of the front and rear seats relative to the seat cushion 319 to place the front and rear seat backs 321 in an upright position as required. As a result, the front seat body 315 and the rear seat body 315 are less likely to be close to each other, and the rear seat back 321 is closer to the vertical axis Z, thereby reducing the turning radius of the rear seat body 315. This means that the rear seat body 315 becomes less likely to come into contact with another object located nearby during rotation.

[0412] When the front seat body 315 and the corresponding rear seat body 315 are close to each other, the control unit 309 moves the front seat body 315 and the rear seat body 315 away from each other as needed. This configuration allows each of the front seat body 315 and the rear seat body 315 to move so that the seat body 315 is placed away from another seat body 315 located nearby and is less likely to contact it, which means that the rear seat body 315 becomes less likely to contact another object located nearby during rotation.

[0413] (First variant) The control unit 309 may be configured so that, before the sliding movement of the seat body 315 caused by the sliding drive unit 335 is completed in step ST9, the control unit 309 performs step S2; that is, the rotation drive unit 339 starts the rotation of the seat body 315. This configuration reduces the time until the seat body 315 in the rear seat rotates around the vertical axis Z.

[0414] (Second variant) The control unit 309 may be configured such that, before the rotation of the seat back 321 to the upright position caused by the tilt drive unit 337 is completed in step ST7, the control unit 309 performs step S2; that is, the rotation drive unit 339 starts the rotation of the seat body 315. For example, before the rotation of the seat back 321 to the upright position caused by the tilt drive unit 337 is completed, the control unit 309 may perform step ST8, and when the non-interference rotation of the rear seat body 315 caused by the rotation drive unit 339 becomes possible without the sliding movement caused by the sliding drive unit 335, the control unit 309 starts to perform step S2. This configuration reduces the time until the seat body 315 in the rear seat rotates around the vertical axis Z.

[0415] (Third variant) The control unit 309 may be configured such that, before the rotation of the seat cushion 319 caused by the flip-up drive unit 341 is completed in step ST5, the control unit 309 performs step S2; that is, the rotation drive unit 339 starts the rotation of the seat body 315. For example, before the rotation of the seat cushion 319 caused by the flip-up drive unit 341 is completed, the control unit 309 may perform step ST6, and then perform step ST8 when it is determined that the seat back 321 will not contact another object, and when it is determined that the non-interference rotation of the rear seat body 315 caused by the rotation drive unit 339 without the sliding movement caused by the sliding drive unit 335 becomes possible, the control unit 309 starts to perform step S2; that is, starts the rotation of the seat body 315 caused by the rotation drive unit 339. This configuration reduces the time until the seat body 315 in the rear seat rotates around the vertical axis Z.

[0416] (Fourth variant) The control unit 309 may be configured so that, in step ST4, the control unit 309 returns the front and rear seat bodies 315 to the position (initial position) before the switching operation starts. In some cases, the control unit 309 may be configured so that, in step ST4, the control unit 309 returns the tilt angle of the front and rear seats to the angle (initial tilt angle, also referred to as the initial angle) before the switching operation starts. In other cases, the control unit 309 may be configured so that, in step ST4, the control unit 309 returns the tilt angle of the rear seat cushion 319 to the angle (initial tilt angle; also referred to as the initial angle) before the switching operation starts.

[0417] This configuration allows an occupant to sit in the seat while completing rotation of the seat body 315 , while allowing the position and posture of the seat body 315 in the front and rear seats to meet the occupant's preferences.

[0418] In some cases, the control unit 309 may be configured such that, in step ST4 , the control unit 309 starts adjusting the position and attitude before the rotation of the seat body 315 around the vertical axis Z is completed. This configuration reduces the time until the movement of the seat body 315 is completed.

[0419] (Structure of the seat body 315) Next, the details of the seat body will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings using the right seat body, that is, the seat body 315 located on the right side of the vehicle, as an example. Fig.44 As shown, the seat body 315 on the left side and the corresponding seat body 315 on the right side of the vehicle are arranged to be symmetrical about the line extending in the front-rear direction at the lateral center of the vehicle. It should be noted that in the right seat body 315 described as an example below, the left and right sides of the seat body are consistent with the inside and outside of the vehicle.

[0420] like Fig.52 As shown, the seat body 315 includes a cushion frame 401, a backrest frame 403 and a headrest frame (not shown), which respectively constitute the frames of the seat cushion 319, the seat back 321 and the headrest 323.

[0421] <Seat cushion frame 401> like Fig.53 As shown, the cushion frame 401 includes a pair of left and right cushion side frames 405 extending in the front-rear direction and a seat frame 407 disposed between the pair of left and right cushion side frames 405. The seat frame 407 supports a cushion pad (not shown) from below. In addition, the cushion frame 401 may further include a transverse frame (also referred to as a transverse member) extending in the left-right direction and connecting the left side frame to the right side frame at their central portions.

[0422] In the present embodiment, each of the left and right cushion side frames 405 includes an inner frame 409 extending in the front-rear direction, and an outer frame 411 extending in the front-rear direction on the outer side of the inner frame 409. The inner frame 409 and the outer frame 411 are each made of a metal sheet. The inner frame 409 and the outer frame 411 are coupled together at least in some portions thereof, and partially form a closed cross section 413. In this way, each side frame includes two metal sheet parts, the inner frame 409 and the outer frame 411, which increases the sturdiness of the cushion side frame 405 compared to when the cushion side frame 405 is formed of only one of the inner frame 409 and the outer frame 411.

[0423] The seat frame 407 includes an ottoman frame 415 forming a frame of the ottoman 325. The ottoman frame 415 is in the form of a plate having a surface generally facing forward. A metal wire-like member 417 is welded to the seat frame 407, and the ottoman frame 415 is connected to the linear member 417 via a bracket 419, resulting in the ottoman frame 415 being fixed to the seat frame 407. The wire-like member 417 may be made of a solid member (i.e., a metal wire) or a hollow member (i.e., a tube).

[0424] The cushion frame 401 is supported on the floor 313 via the sliding mechanism 345 and the rotating mechanism 349 .

[0425] (Sliding Mechanism 345 and Sliding Driving Unit 335) The sliding mechanism 345 includes a pair of left and right sliding rails 421. Each of the sliding rails 421 includes a lower rail 425 fixed to the floor 313 via a bracket 423 and extending in the front-rear direction, and an upper rail 427 slidably connected to the lower rail 425. The upper rail 427 slides on the lower rail 425, thereby sliding the cushion frame 401 in the front-rear direction.

[0426] The slide drive unit 335 includes two known components; an electric motor (not shown) and a conversion mechanism (not shown) for converting the output from the electric motor into a sliding movement of the upper rail 427 relative to the lower rail 425. The electric motor can rotate forward and reverse according to the direction of the current.

[0427] Provided on the upper surfaces of the two upper rails 427 is a base member 429 extending in the left and right directions and connecting the two upper rails 427 .

[0428] (Rotation Mechanism 349 and Rotation Driving Unit 339) The rotating mechanism 349 includes a rotating member 431 (rotating means) rotatably supported by a base member 429. In the present embodiment, a circular ring-shaped recess (not shown) is formed on the upper surface of the base member 429. Balls (not shown) are placed in the recess in the base member 429 to be arranged along the circumference.

[0429] The rotating member 431 has a circular shape extending along the recess. The rotating member 431 is supported by the base member 429 via balls therebetween. This feature allows the balls to roll along the recess, thereby enabling the base member to rotate around the axis of the circular annular recess. Fixed to the rotating member 431 is a connecting member 433 having surfaces facing upward and downward.

[0430] The rotation drive unit 339 is equipped with an electric motor (not shown) and a known conversion mechanism (not shown) for converting the output from the electric motor into rotation of the rotating member 431 relative to the base member 429. The electric motor is configured to be capable of forward and reverse rotation according to the direction of current.

[0431] (Turning mechanism 351 and turning drive unit 341) The seat frame 407 is connected to the cushion side frame 405 via the flip-up mechanism 351. The flip-up mechanism 351 includes a pair of left and right connection brackets 441.

[0432] Each of the connection brackets 441 is rotatably connected to the corresponding cushion side frame 405 at one end and is rotatable about a rotation axis Y1 extending in the left-right direction. In this embodiment, each of the connection brackets 441 is rotatably connected to the inner side of the corresponding inner frame 409 at one end.

[0433] Each of the respective connection brackets 441 is fixed at the other end to the corresponding seat frame 407. In the present embodiment, the connection bracket 441 is fixed at the other end to the wire member 417, and is fixed to the seat frame 407 via the wire member 417.

[0434] By rotating the connecting bracket 441 around the rotation axis Y1, the seat frame 407 changes between a supporting position and a push-up position, in which the seat frame 407 supports the cushion component from below so that the surface of the cushion component faces upward, and in the push-up position, the front side of the seat frame 407 is pushed upward relative to the rear side.

[0435] The turning-up driving unit 341 includes an electric motor 443 and a power transmission device 445 configured to rotate the connection bracket 441 using the power of the electric motor 443 .

[0436] The electric motor 443 and the power transmission device 445 are located below the seat frame 407. This arrangement allows the vehicle seat 303 to be made compact. In addition, the electric motor 443 and the power transmission device 445 are located above the rotating member 431. This arrangement allows the vehicle seat 303 to be provided with a rotating mechanism 349 and a flipping mechanism 351.

[0437] The power transmission device 445 includes a rod 447, a plurality of gears (not shown) for transmitting the rotational driving force of the electric motor 443 to the rod 447, and a gear box 449 for accommodating the gears.

[0438] The rod 447 is a rod-shaped component extending in the front-to-rear direction. The rod 447 is connected to one of the connecting brackets 441 at one end. Specifically, the rod 447 is pivotally supported at the lower end of the left connecting bracket 441 in one end. More specifically, the rod 447 is connected to the left connecting bracket 441 at a connection point P, and the connection point P is different from the position of the rotation axis Y1 of the connecting bracket 441 and the cushion side frame 405. As shown in the figure, the connection point P at which the rod 447 and the left connecting bracket 441 are connected to each other is located below and in front of the rotation axis Y1, and the cushion side frame 405 and the connecting bracket 441 are rotatable around the rotation axis Y1. The gear box 449 has a rod insertion hole (not shown) at an appropriate position so that the other end of the rod 447 can be inserted through the rod insertion hole.

[0439] The gears in the gear box 449 mesh with each other and cooperate to convert the power of the electric motor 443 into the forward and backward movement of the rod 447. The power transmission device 445 is provided with an input gear to which the rotational driving power is input from the rotation axis of the motor, an output gear configured to mesh with a threaded groove formed on the rod 447 and extending through the gear box 449, and a transmission gear configured to transmit the rotational driving power to the output gear with reduced speed.

[0440] When the seat frame 407 is in the supporting position and the rotating shaft (drive shaft) of the electric motor 443 rotates in the first direction, the input gear rotates, thereby rotating the output gear. As a result, the rod 447 slides forward while rotating. The sliding movement of the rod 447 in the generally forward direction causes the lower end of the left connecting bracket 441 to move forward, thereby rotating counterclockwise when viewed from the inside of the seat. When the left and right connecting brackets 441 are connected to the cushion frame 401, the left and right connecting brackets 441 rotate simultaneously. As a result, the seat frame 407 moves from the supporting position to the push-up position, thereby causing the seat cushion 319 to change from a position (horizontal position) in which the seat surface 319A is generally horizontal to another position (lifted position) in which the front end of the seat surface is lifted higher than the rear end.

[0441] When the seat frame 407 is in the push-up position and the shaft of the electric motor 443 is driven to rotate in a second direction opposite to the first direction, the rod 447 slides backward while rotating, thereby moving the lower end of the left connecting bracket 441 backward. The left and right connecting brackets 441 rotate simultaneously, thereby moving the seat frame 407 from the push-up position to the supporting position. As a result, the seat cushion 319 changes from the raised position to the horizontal position.

[0442] As described above, the flipping drive unit 341 (also referred to as a flipping actuator) is provided with an electric motor 443 and a power transmission device 445 including a rod 447, a gear and a gear box 449. This configuration allows the flipping drive unit 341 that causes the flipping (upward) movement of the seat cushion 319 to be made simple.

[0443] (Backrest frame 403) Next, details of the back frame 403 forming the seat back 321 will be described below. The back frame 403 includes a main frame 461 forming an edge shape of the seat back 321, and a movable frame 463 provided in an upper half thereof.

[0444] The main frame 461 includes a pair of back side frames 465 vertically extending at the upper left and right, an upper frame 467 connecting the upper portions of the respective back side frames 465 to each other, and a lower frame 469 connecting the lower portions of the respective back side frames 465 to each other. The lower portion of each back side frame 465 is rotatably connected to the rear portion of the cushion side frame 405 via the tilt mechanism 347 so as to be rotatable around an axis extending in the left-right direction.

[0445] The movable frame 463 includes a left and right pair of movable side frames 471 and a movable upper frame 473 connecting upper end portions of the respective movable side frames 471. Each of the respective movable side frames 471 may include an upper side frame 475 forming an upper portion of the movable side frame, and an attachment frame 477 connected to a lower portion of the corresponding upper side frame 475. In the present embodiment, a left and right pair of pillar guides 478 are formed in the left and right movable upper frames 473, and the headrest 323 is provided with pillars configured to be inserted into the pillar guides 478.

[0446] Each of the movable side frames 471 is provided with a shape retainer component 479 on the side surface of the outer side. The shape retainer component 479 is formed of a solid metal wire. The metal wire material forming each shape retainer component 479 is welded to the outer surface of the corresponding movable side frame 471 at one end, extends outward from the seat, extends downward, and then extends inward and is welded to the front of the movable side frame 471. In the present embodiment, the shape retainer component 479 is made of a solid metal wire. However, the shape retainer component 479 may also be made of a hollow metal wire.

[0447] (Articulation mechanism 353 and articulation drive unit 35) The left and right hinge mechanisms 353 are provided to rotatably connect the movable frame 463 and the main frame 461 at two points on the left and right sides so that the movable frame 463 is rotatable relative to the main frame 461 around an axis extending in the left-right direction. Preferably, each of the respective hinge mechanisms 353 includes: a connecting portion 481 configured to rotatably connect the lower portion of the corresponding movable side frame of each movable side frame 471 to the back side frame 465 at the vertical center position of the back side frame 465; and a limiting mechanism 483 configured to limit the rotational movement range of the movable side frame 471.

[0448] When the upper front surface of the seat back 321 is in its initial position, ie, extending in a substantially vertical direction, the front face of each movable side frame 471 is substantially aligned with the front face of the back side frame 465 in the front-rear direction.

[0449] The hinge driving unit 355 rotates the movable frame 463 relative to the main frame 461. The hinge driving unit 355 includes an electric motor 485 and a conversion mechanism 487 configured to convert an output of the electric motor 485 into rotation of the movable frame 463.

[0450] The hinge drive unit 355 is provided only on one side of the back frame 403. This results in a reduction in the number of electric motors 485 and conversion mechanisms 487 compared to when the hinge drive unit 355 is provided on both sides of the back frame 403.

[0451] The electric motor 485 can rotate forward and backward according to the direction of the current. The electric motor 485 is fixed to the dorsal frame 465. In the present embodiment, the electric motor 485 is arranged so that its rotation axis (drive shaft) extends downward, and is fixed to the dorsal frame 465 via a motor bracket 489. The motor bracket 489 is arranged on the inner side and spaced apart from the dorsal frame 465, and is coupled to the dorsal frame 465 via a collar or any other coupling portion.

[0452] The electric motor 485 is located between the movable side frame 471 on the left side and the back side frame 465 on the left side. As a result, the electric motor 485 is placed at an outer position of the movable side frame 471, which allows the seated person to be less likely to feel any discomfort (i.e., have a foreign body sensation) due to the presence of the electric motor 488, compared to when the electric motor 485 is placed at an inner position of the movable side frame 471.

[0453] When the upper front surface of the seat back 321 is in the initial position or the forward tilted position, the electric motor 485 is located behind the shape retainer member 479 (more specifically, behind the metal wire forming the shape retainer member 479). This configuration prevents the load caused by the seated occupant from being applied to the electric motor 485.

[0454] The conversion mechanism 487 includes a shaft for converting the rotation of the shaft of the electric motor 485 into another shaft 491 ( Fig.54 ), a conversion box 493 for rotation thereof, a pinion 495 fixed to the shaft 491 so as to be coaxial therewith and rotate together with the shaft 491, and a sector gear 497 meshing with the pinion 495.

[0455] The conversion box 493 includes a plurality of gears and a gear box 494 that accommodates the plurality of gears, and the shaft 491 is rotatably supported by the gear box 494. The shaft 491 is connected to the electric motor 485 via the gears accommodated in the conversion box 493, and is rotated by the electric motor 485. The electric motor 485 and the conversion box 493 are each fixed to the back frame 465 by a fastener 493A (e.g., a bolt) so that the shaft 491 protrudes inward. In the present embodiment, the conversion box 493 is fixed to the left back frame 465. The shaft 491 extends inward (to the right, i.e., Fig.54 The other side of the paper) protrudes through a through hole (not shown) in the motor bracket 489. The pinion 495 is connected to the shaft 491.

[0456] In this embodiment, if Fig.55 As shown, the support bracket 498 ( Fig.52 The support bracket 498 is connected to the motor bracket 489 (not shown). The support bracket 498 is formed of a metal plate extending vertically. The upper side of the support bracket 498 is welded to the inner side of the support bracket 498 at a point above the pinion 495 and the sector gear 497. The lower side of the support bracket 498 has a surface facing the pinion 495 and the sector gear 497 from the inner side. The pinion 495 is pivotally supported by the support bracket 498. As a result, the pinion 495 is rotatably supported by the dorsal frame 465 via the support bracket 498 and the motor bracket 489.

[0457] like Fig.56As shown, the pinion 495 has a recess 495A that accommodates the protruding end of the shaft 491. When the shaft 491 is inserted into the recess 495A of the pinion 495, the protruding end of the shaft 491 fits into the recess 495A of the pinion 495, which couples the shaft 491 to the pinion 495 so that the pinion 495 can rotate as the shaft 491 rotates.

[0458] Provided at one end of the sector gear 497 is a gear support shaft 501 that protrudes inwardly and outwardly. The gear support shaft 501 is rotatably received in a through hole 503 ( Fig.54 ) and a through hole 505 ( Fig.55 ). As a result, the gear support shaft 501 is rotatably supported from the inside and the outside by the motor bracket 489 and the support bracket 498. Since both the motor bracket 489 and the support bracket 498 are fixed to the back side frame 465, the sector gear 497 is rotatably connected to the back side frame 465.

[0459] like Fig.52 As shown, the sector gear 497 is fixed to the upper side frame 475 (specifically, the left upper side frame 475) at the other end via a plurality of brackets 507 (in this embodiment, two brackets 507) (see Fig.55 ). Therefore, the sector gear 497 and the bracket 507 cooperate to form the lower end portion of the left movable side frame 471, that is, the attachment frame 477, as shown in FIG. Fig.56 The sector gear 497 is provided with teeth 497A which mesh with teeth (not shown) of the pinion gear 495 .

[0460] If Fig.52 As shown by the arrow shown in , when the pinion gear 495 rotates, the sector gear 497 rotates around the axis of the gear support shaft 501. Since the sector gear 497 is fixed to the movable frame 463, the movable frame 463 also rotates around the axis of the gear support shaft 501, thereby tilting the movable frame 463 relative to the main frame 461 around the axis of the gear support shaft 501. In other words, the axis of the gear support shaft 501 corresponds to the rotation axis Y2 around which the movable frame 463 and the main frame 461 rotate. The gear support shaft 501 forms a connecting portion 481, which rotatably connects the lower portion of the left movable side frame 471 to the back side frame 465 at the vertical center position of the back side frame 465. In addition, the sector gear 497 rotates together with the rotation of the shaft of the electric motor 485, and corresponds to the engaging portion that tilts the movable frame 463.

[0461] like Fig.56As shown, the support bracket 498 has a protrusion 515 protruding toward the sector gear 497. The sector gear 497 defines a receiving hole 517 for receiving the protrusion 515. The support bracket 498 is fixed to the back frame 465, and the sector gear 497 is fixed to the movable frame 463, so that the protrusion 515 is received in the receiving hole 517, which limits the rotational motion range of the sector gear 497. In other words, the protrusion 515 and the receiving hole 517 form a limiting mechanism 483. Preferably, a plurality of protruding walls 517A are formed to stand upright outward from the edge of the receiving hole 517 and are located at both ends of the rotational motion range of the sector gear 497. The protruding wall 517A increases the rigidity of the portion of the edge of the receiving hole 517 at each end of the rotational motion range of the sector gear 497, and when the protrusion 515 is at any one of the respective ends of the rotational motion range, one of the plurality of protruding walls 517A forms a surface with which the protrusion 515 contacts.

[0462] (Other features) like Fig.52 As shown, the backrest frame 403 is provided with a guide bracket 521 for providing a seat belt guide, into which the seat belt can be inserted. In addition, a bracket 523 for fixing a seat belt reel (not shown) for fixing the seat belt is attached to the backrest frame 403. The seat belt reel is fixed to the backrest frame 403 via the bracket 523.

[0463] The guide bracket 521 is provided on the outer side of the backrest frame 403 on the vehicle side ( Fig.52 A bracket 523 for a seat belt winding device is also provided on the outer side (right upper side) of the backrest frame 403 of the vehicle. Fig.52 The electric motor 485 and the conversion mechanism 487 of the hinge mechanism 353 are located on the inner side (right upper side) of the backrest frame 403 of the vehicle. Fig.52 In this configuration, both the seat belt related components (e.g., guide bracket 521) and the electric motor 485 having heavy weight are located on the left and right sides, respectively, which can reduce the weight difference between the left and right sides of the backrest frame 403.

[0464] Next, a method of manufacturing the vehicle seat 303 and the seat system 301 will be described.

[0465] When assembling the vehicle seat 303 , the assembling worker performs the steps of sequentially attaching the connecting members 433 to the left and right cushion side frames 405 of the seat cushion 319 and attaching the connecting brackets 441 to the left and right cushion side frames 405 to be rotatable.

[0466] When the connection bracket 441 is rotatably attached to the left and right cushion side frames 405 to be rotatable, the assembling worker attaches the connection bracket 441 to the corresponding inner side frames 409 of the cushion side frames 405 to be rotatable.

[0467] Then, the assembler performs a step of connecting the electric motor 443, the gear box 449 provided with a plurality of gears, and the tilting drive unit 341 provided with the rod 447 to the connecting member 433. In this step, the assembler places the tilting drive unit 341 under the seat frame 407 while fixing the tilting drive unit 341 to the connecting member 433.

[0468] The assembler also performs a step of attaching the articulated drive unit 355 to the backrest frame 403. In this step, the assembler engages the rotating shaft of the electric motor 485 with the sector gear 497 via the gear and pinion 495 in the gear box 449. This configuration allows the movable frame 463 to be tilted by the rotation of the electric motor 485.

[0469] The assembling worker then performs the steps of attaching the guide bracket 521 to the outer upper portion of the main frame 461 of the seat back 321, and attaching the bracket 523 for the seat belt winder to the upper portion of the main frame 461 of the seat back 321 on the outer side of the vehicle. When installing the guide bracket 521 and the bracket 523 for the seat belt winder, the assembling worker performs the steps of sequentially coupling the sector gear 497 and the shape retainer member 479 to the movable frame 463 and attaching the movable frame 463 to the main frame 461 to be rotatable.

[0470] Next, the assembly worker performs the step of placing the electric motor 485 and the conversion box 493 of the hinge mechanism 353 between the movable frame 463 and the main frame 461 and attaching them to the main frame 461. In this step, the assembly worker places the electric motor 485 behind the shape retainer member 479 and in the space between the back side frame 465 located on the outer side of the vehicle and the movable side frame 471, and couples them to the inner side surface of the back side frame 465 located on the inner side of the seat. As a result, the electric motor 485 is provided on the inner side of the main frame 461 of the seat back 321 and approximately at the vertical center portion of the seat back 321. Also in this step, the assembly worker attaches the conversion box 493 to the main frame 461 so that the pinion 495 engages with the sector gear 497 of the movable frame 463. This configuration enables the rotational driving power of the electric motor 485 to be transmitted to the sector gear 497 , thereby allowing the movable frame 463 to be tilted by the rotation of the electric motor 485 .

[0471] The assembler then performs the steps of covering the cushion frame 401 and the backrest frame 403 with the cushion member and the skin material, respectively, thereby forming the seat body 315 .

[0472] Next, the assembling worker performs a step of preparing an intermediate member formed by sequentially stacking a base member 429, a ball bearing on the base member 429, and a rotating member 431 rotatably supported by the ball bearing. Then, the assembling worker performs a step of coupling a sliding mechanism 345 having a pair of left and right lower rails 425 and a pair of left and right upper rails 427 to the lower surface of the intermediate member (i.e., on the lower surface of the base member 429). In this step, each of the individual lower rails 425 may be provided with a foot (bracket) for mounting the lower rail 425 to the floor 313.

[0473] Next, the assembler performs a step of coupling the connection member 433 to the upper surface of the middle member (i.e., the upper surface of the rotating member 431) to thereby couple the seat body 315 to the middle member. In this step, the rotating member 431 is arranged below the connection member 433, and the flip-up drive unit 341 is provided on the upper surface of the connection member 433, so that the electric motor 443 of the flip-up drive unit 341 is placed above the rotating member 431. Then, the assembler fixes the lower rail 425 to the floor 313, so that the seat body 315 is assembled to the floor 313.

[0474] The assembler then connects the various electric motors to a control unit 309 positioned at the appropriate location in the vehicle, which completes the seat system 301 .

[0475] Specific embodiments of the present invention are described above. However, these embodiments are not restrictive, and various modifications can be made to the embodiments without departing from the scope of the present invention.

[0476] In the first embodiment, the slide device 1 is configured so that the tubular member 61 presses each of the individual spiral members 27 so that the spiral members frictionally engage the side wall 41 to thereby restrict the free rotation of the spiral members 27. However, any other configuration may be used to restrict the free rotation of the spiral members 27. For example, the slide device 1 may be configured to include a coil spring so that the coil spring presses the spiral member 27 against the side wall 41 to thereby prevent the free rotation of the spiral member 27.

[0477] In the third embodiment described above, the electrically driven sliding track 201 can be arranged on the object so that, for example, the track 211 extends in the left-right or vertical direction. The shapes of the track 211 and the sliding member 212 can be appropriately modified to meet the purpose. In the third embodiment described above, a front and rear pair of driving gears 237A can be provided. In this case, the first gear 238B and the second gear 239B can be provided respectively as the front and rear pair of driving gears 237A.

[0478] In the third embodiment and its variations, when the actuator 261 is not in operation, the connecting shaft 237 is in the first position, and the first engaging portion 262 and the second engaging portion 263 engage with each other. However, in other embodiments, when the actuator 261 is not in operation, the connecting shaft 237 may be in the second position, and the first engaging portion 262 and the second engaging portion 263 may be separated from each other. Preferably, in the latter embodiment, the pushing member 265 pushes the connecting shaft 237 to the second position, and when driven, the actuator 261 presses the connecting shaft 237 to the first position.

[0479] In the fourth embodiment described above, the control unit 309 is configured to control a plurality of vehicle seats 303 in the seat system 301. However, the control unit 309 may be provided for the respective vehicle seats 303 and control the corresponding vehicle seats 303. In this case, the control units 309 preferably communicate with each other to autonomously move the corresponding vehicle seats 303, and when it is determined that the first seat body 315 will contact the seat body 315 of the second vehicle seat 303 during the rotation about the vertical axis Z, the control unit 309 for the first seat body may send a command signal to the control unit 309 for the second vehicle seat so that the seat body 315 of the second vehicle seat is moved or deformed to a position or state in which the non-interference rotation of the first seat body 315 becomes possible.

[0480] The embodiment in which the present invention is embodied in a seat of a vehicle is described above. However, the present invention may be embodied in various types of seats such as aircraft seats and railway seats. Glossary

[0481] 1 Sliding device 11 Tracks 12 Slides 15 snap-in holes 20 Gear Box 21 Electric Motor 21A Rotating axis 26 Shell 27 spiral assembly 36 Axis 37 External thread 37A spiral cam 41 Sidewall 43 Opening 48 driving gear 49 driven gear 51 tool holes 55 Rotary Controls 57 Extension device 59 Pushing device 61 Tubular parts 63 first tubular member (tubular member) 64 second tubular member (tubular member) 65 main inclined surface (inclined surface) 67 first pressing member (pressing member) 68 second pressing member (pressing member) 70 protrusion (hook) 75 Second spring through hole (through hole) 76 Auxiliary inclined surface 78 stopper 80 Tools

Claims

1. A sliding device, comprising: A rail having a plurality of engaging holes arranged in a row in a longitudinal direction; a slide member slidably supported by the track; A gear box including a spiral member engaging with the plurality of engagement holes and fixed to the sliding member; as well as an electric motor that rotates and drives the spiral member, thereby causing the slider to slide relative to the track, Wherein, the gear box includes a rotation control device, and the rotation control device is configured to frictionally engage the spiral component to limit the rotation of the spiral component.

2. The sliding device according to claim 1, wherein the spiral component includes a cylindrical shaft extending along a predetermined axis of the spiral component, and an external thread portion having a spiral helical convex angle on an outer circumference of the shaft, in, The gear box includes a housing configured to rotatably support the spiral member, the housing having a plurality of side walls opposed to an axial end surface of the external threaded portion, and The rotation control device presses the spiral component against a side wall on a first side, which is one of the plurality of side walls, to cause friction engagement between the spiral component and the side wall on the first side, thereby preventing rotation of the spiral component.

3. A sliding device according to claim 2, wherein the rotation control device includes a pushing device and an extending device, and the extending device is pushed by the pushing force provided by the pushing device to further extend, so that the spiral component is pressed against the side wall on the first side and frictionally engages the side wall on the first side.

4. The sliding device according to claim 3, wherein the extension device comprises two tubular members, each tubular member having an inner hole through which the shaft passes, the two tubular members being arranged adjacent to each other, in, The two tubular members each have an inclined surface, the inclined surfaces facing each other and being helical surfaces inclined at the same angle relative to the axis of the helical member, and The pushing device pushes the extending device so that the two tubular components rotate in opposite directions to each other, and the inclined surfaces of the two tubular components contact and slide with each other, thereby causing the extending device to extend.

5. A sliding device according to claim 4, wherein the extension device and the side wall on the second side each have a reverse inclined surface, the side wall on the second side is another one of the multiple side walls, and the respective reverse inclined surfaces face each other and are spiral surfaces, which are inclined at a reverse inclination angle from the respective inclined surfaces relative to the axis of the spiral component.

6. The sliding device according to claim 4, wherein the urging device includes two urging members coupled to the housing and the corresponding tubular members such that the two urging members urge the two tubular members to rotate in directions opposite to each other.

7. The sliding device according to claim 6, wherein each of the two tubular members has a plurality of hooks, and the two pushing members are hooked on the plurality of hooks, in, The housing has a plurality of through holes so that at least one of the plurality of hook portions of each of the two tubular members can pass through a corresponding through hole of the plurality of through holes, and Wherein, the two tubular components are visible through the plurality of through holes.

8. A sliding device according to claim 5, wherein the wall-side tubular component, which is one of the two tubular components, has a facing wall end surface facing the side wall on the second side, and a stopper protruding from the facing wall end surface, and the stopper is constructed to engage with the side wall on the second side to limit the rotation of the wall-side tubular component.

9. A sliding device according to any one of claims 4 to 8, wherein each of the two tubular parts is arranged within the housing.

10. The sliding device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the gear box includes a driving gear and a driven gear, the driving gear rotates as the rotating shaft of the electric motor rotates, and the driven gear is provided on the spiral member and engaged with the driving gear. 11 . The sliding device according to claim 10 , wherein the gear case has a tool hole into which a tool for rotating the driving gear can be inserted.

12. A method for assembling a sliding device according to claim 1, the method comprising: assembling the slider to the gearbox and the electric motor; as well as Assemble the slide to the track.

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