Vehicle seat assembly including a latch device

Abstract

A vehicle seating assembly includes a cushion frame (11), a slide (15), and a latching device (24) selectively activatable to lock / unlock movement of the cushion frame (11) relative to a movable profile (14) of the slide (15). The latch device (24) comprises a shaft (55), a hook (52) movable between a latched position of the latch device and an unlocked position of the latch device, wherein the hook (52) is in the latched position of the latch device (24), a latch cam (58) movable to selectively latch the hook (52) in its latched position, and means (64, 68, 71) for driving the latch cam (58) between the latched position of the hook (52) and a further position of the hook (52). The drive device (64, 68, 71) comprises a cam (68) which drives the latch cam (58) to move as the latch cam (58) travels along the cam track (71).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a vehicle seat assembly and a method of operating the vehicle seat assembly is also described. Background Art

[0002] In particular in the automotive field, a vehicle seat is known which is configured to have a position (called "easy entry position") that facilitates access to the rear portion of the seat. Such seats are usually used in vehicles comprising a plurality of pairs of doors, the number of which is less than the number of rows of seats, in order to allow access to the last row of seats in the vehicle, that is, the row of seats that is longitudinally arranged furthest to the rear of the vehicle.

[0003] Typically, the easy entry position corresponds to a forward tilted position of a vehicle seat, in particular a backrest of a vehicle seat. When the seat is mounted on slides, the easy entry position can also advantageously correspond to a position in which the seat is advanced as far as possible toward the front of the motor vehicle.

[0004] It has been contemplated to use a motor disposed beneath a vehicle seat to control longitudinal movement of the vehicle seat along a slideway to control passage of the vehicle seat from its nominal position to its easy entry position to enable an occupant of the vehicle seat to be accommodated.

[0005] However, the weight of the seat necessitates the use of an oversized motor to move the vehicle seat longitudinally along the slide.

[0006] Then, for example in application FR-A-3 116 771, it is proposed to install a spring between a connecting rod controlling the tilting of a vehicle seat into its easy-entry position and a latch fixing the seat to a movable part of one of the slides. In particular, the control rod is located at the front end of the vehicle seat and the latch is located at the rear end. In this case, when the latch is closed, it can overcome the stress exerted by the spring and prevent the vehicle seat from tilting into its easy-entry position. On the other hand, when the latch is open, the spring will tilt the vehicle seat into its easy-entry position. However, it has proven difficult to control the pivoting of such a vehicle seat with such a spring.

[0007] In the unpublished application FR 22 04922, it is also proposed to use a torsion bar to control the tilting of a vehicle seat when a latch holding a seat cushion frame attached to a moving part of at least one slide is open.

[0008] In the proposed solution, it is interesting that the latch securing the seat to the movable element of the slide can be controlled according to the position of the movable element of the slide relative to the fixed element. It is particularly advantageous that the latch has no electrical and / or electronic devices to facilitate maintenance of the vehicle seat. Summary of the invention

[0009] The present disclosure aims to improve this situation.

[0010] To this end, a vehicle seat assembly is described, comprising:

[0011] - Seat cushion frame;

[0012] - at least one slide comprising a movable section accommodated in translation in a fixed section intended to be fixed to the chassis of the motor vehicle, the seat cushion frame being mounted so as to be movable relative to the movable section;

[0013] - a selectively activatable latching device for latching / unlatching at least one movement of the seat cushion frame relative to the movable section, the latching device comprising:

[0014] - a shaft integral with the movable section,

[0015] a hook movable between a latching position of the latching device and an unlocking position of the latching device, in which, in the latching position, the hook engages the shaft, the movable hook being connected to the seat cushion frame, in particular being mounted so as to be rotatable relative to the seat cushion frame about a transverse axis,

[0016] a movable latch cam for selectively latching the hook in a latched position of the latch device,

[0017] --A device for driving a latch cam between a latch position of the hook (the hook is in the latch position of the latch device) and at least one other position, the driving device of the latch cam comprising a first cam and a cam track, the cam track being adapted so that the first cam drives the latch cam to move when the latch cam moves along the cam track, the cam track being fixed relative to the fixed section.

[0018] In this way, the locking device can be purely mechanical, without any electrical or electronic means, and suitable for being unlocked when required, in particular depending on the kinematics applied to the seat assembly.

[0019] According to a preferred embodiment, the seat assembly includes one or more of the following features, used alone or in combination:

[0020] - in a first latched position, the latch cam holds the hook in a latched position of the latch device, and in a second latched position, the latch cam holds the hook in an unlocked position of the latch device;

[0021] - the latching cam is resiliently biased towards a position in which it holds the hook in the latched position of the latching device, for example by means of a torsion spring inserted between the latching cam and a component integral with the seat cushion frame, preferably towards a position in which, if necessary, the latching cam holds the hook in a position to unlock the latching device;

[0022] - the latch cam and the hook are resiliently biased towards each other;

[0023] - the hook is freely rotatable relative to the seat cushion frame, preferably about an axis oriented transversely relative to the seat assembly;

[0024] - the latch cam is freely rotatable relative to the seat cushion frame, preferably about an axis oriented transversely relative to the seat assembly;

[0025] - the means for driving the latching cam comprises a second cam which is interposed between the first cam and the latching cam, so that movement of the first cam along the cam path causes movement of the second cam, which in turn causes the latching cam to move from its position of the latching hook into the latching position of the latching device to a further position;

[0026] - the latching cam is integral with a lever adapted to be driven by the movement of the second cam, preferably the lever is integral with the latching cam, so as to move the latching cam from the latching position of the hook to the latching position of the latching device to the further position;

[0027] - the second cam is mounted rotatably relative to the seat cushion frame, preferably about a transversely oriented axis;

[0028] the hook comprises an abutment projection adapted to cooperate with the shaft so as to move the hook towards a latched position of the latching device, in particular to rotate it if necessary, when the abutment projection abuts against the shaft, in particular when latching the latching device;

[0029] - the seat cushion frame is mounted to be rotatable relative to the movable section, preferably about an axis oriented transversely to the vehicle seat assembly, preferably still near a first longitudinal end of the seat cushion frame, the latching means being adapted to latch the seat cushion frame and the movable section together near a second longitudinal end of the seat cushion frame opposite the first longitudinal end;

[0030] -The vehicle seat assembly comprises:

[0031] --at least one connecting rod,

[0032] a linear actuator, preferably a pneumatic cylinder, more preferably a gas spring, which is mounted at a first end to pivot about a first axis transverse to the movable section of at least one slideway, and the linear actuator is mounted at a second end to pivot about a second axis transverse to the seat cushion frame, in particular to the front end of the seat cushion frame,

[0033] in:

[0034] The seat cushion frame is pivotable relative to the movable section of the slideway about a third transverse axis, the third transverse axis being adjacent to a front end of the vehicle seat assembly that is opposite a rear end of the vehicle seat assembly in a longitudinal direction;

[0035] - a first end of at least one connecting rod is mounted to pivot about a fourth transverse axis relative to a fixed section of at least one slideway;

[0036] - the second end of the at least one connecting rod is guided for translation relative to the seat cushion frame in the longitudinal direction, the at least one connecting rod is pivotable relative to the seat cushion frame about a fifth transverse axis, and is movable in the longitudinal direction by translation of the second end of the at least one connecting rod relative to the seat cushion frame;

[0037] a stop member that limits movement of the second end of the at least one connecting rod relative to the seat cushion frame in a longitudinal direction toward a rear end of the vehicle seat assembly;

[0038] -- the travel length of the movable section relative to the fixed section of at least one slide, the length of at least one connecting rod and the position of the stop are configured so that movement of the movable section relative to the fixed section of at least one slide tends to increase the distance between the third transverse axis and the fourth transverse axis, and when the second end of the connecting rod abuts, the second end of the at least one connecting rod is restricted from movement relative to the seat cushion frame in the longitudinal direction toward the rear end of the vehicle seat assembly, causing the seat cushion frame to rotate about the third transverse axis, supported by the action of the linear actuator, and the locking device is preferably configured to unlock at least when the first end of the connecting rod abuts, restricting the second end of the at least one connecting rod from movement relative to the seat cushion frame in the longitudinal direction toward the rear end of the vehicle seat assembly;

[0039] - the seat cushion frame comprises a groove or a rib, the slider is received in the groove or on the rib, slides in the longitudinal direction, the slider is fixed to the vicinity of the second end of at least one connecting rod, fixed or free to rotate about the transverse axis;

[0040] - the stopper is formed by a protrusion adapted to cooperate with the slide member to limit the movement of the second end of the at least one connecting rod relative to the seat cushion frame in the longitudinal direction;

[0041] - the cushion frame includes a first protrusion, at least one connecting rod includes a second protrusion, and the first protrusion and the second protrusion are shaped so that when the slider moves without contacting the stopper protrusion, the first protrusion and the second protrusion are not in contact, and when the slider contacts the stopper protrusion, the first protrusion and the second protrusion are in contact to prevent the slider from moving away from the stopper protrusion;

[0042] - the stopper projection is a non-open longitudinal end of the slot;

[0043] - the seat assembly comprises two slides spaced apart in the transverse direction of the seat assembly, a seat cushion frame being fixed to a movable section of each slide so as to pivot about a same third transverse axis, a connecting rod being mounted between the fixed section of each slide and the seat cushion frame, the two connecting rods being connected by a transverse member, a first end of each connecting rod being mounted so as to pivot about a same fourth transverse axis relative to the fixed section of the corresponding slide, a second end of each connecting rod being guided for translation relative to the seat cushion frame in the longitudinal direction, the connecting rod being pivotable relative to the seat cushion frame about a same fifth transverse axis near its second end, the fifth axis being movable in the longitudinal direction by translation of the second end of the connecting rod;

[0044] - the seat assembly comprises an actuator, preferably one, for controlling the movement of a movable section of at least one slide relative to a corresponding fixed section; and

[0045] -The seat assembly includes two seats arranged side by side transversely.

[0046] A vehicle, in particular a motor vehicle, is also described, comprising a chassis and a body defining a passenger compartment having a floor, and at least one seat assembly in any combination as described above, the fixed section of each slide being attached to or formed by the floor of the passenger compartment.

[0047] In particular, the vehicle may have at least one door arranged longitudinally at the level of the seat assembly, and at least one further seat arranged longitudinally behind the seat assembly. The vehicle may not have a door arranged longitudinally on the further seat.

[0048] According to another aspect, a method of operating a vehicle seat assembly as described above is described, allowing switching from a first configuration suitable for accommodating an occupant to a second configuration that is easy to enter, the method comprising the steps of i) moving a movable section of at least one slide relative to an associated fixed section in a direction tending to increase the distance between a third lateral axis and a fourth lateral axis, and when the second end of at least one connecting rod abuts, limiting the movement of the second end of at least one connecting rod in a longitudinal direction toward the rear end of the vehicle seat assembly relative to the seat cushion frame.

[0049] The method may include a step ii) before step i), moving the movable section of at least one slide relative to the associated fixed section until the second end of at least one connecting rod abuts, limiting the movement of the second end of at least one connecting rod relative to the seat cushion frame in the longitudinal direction toward the rear end of the vehicle seat assembly.

[0050] The method may include the step of unlocking the latch arrangement, preferably before the second end of the at least one connecting rod abuts to restrict movement of the second end of the at least one connecting rod relative to the seat cushion frame in a longitudinal direction toward the rear end of the vehicle seating assembly. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0051] Other features and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following description of one embodiment thereof given by way of non-limiting example with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0052] Figure 1 shows a schematic perspective view of an example of a vehicle seating assembly in a first nominal configuration for accommodating at least one occupant, the seating assembly being devoid of facing material;

[0053] Figure 2 Shows Figure 1 Schematic cross-sectional view of an example of a vehicle seat assembly in the position shown, along plane II-II, without facing material;

[0054] Figure 3 Shows the application Figure 1 A schematic perspective view of a latch device of a seat assembly;

[0055] Figure 4 Shown in latched position Figure 3 A schematic front view of a subassembly of a latch device;

[0056] Figure 5 Shows something like Figure 2 Schematic diagram of a non-faced seat assembly in an intermediate configuration, between Figure 1 between the nominal configuration and the easy-entry configuration;

[0057] Figure 6 Shows Figure 1 A schematic perspective view of a subset of seat assemblies configured between Figure 1 The nominal configuration and Figure 5 between the intermediate configurations;

[0058] Figure 7 is similar to Figure 4 , showing a first step in unlocking the latch device;

[0059] Figure 8 is similar to Figure 4 , showing a second step of unlocking the latch device;

[0060] Fig. 9 is similar to Figure 4 , showing a third step of unlocking the locking device;

[0061] Fig.10 Shows Figure 1 The seat assembly is Figure 1 Configuration and Figure 5 schematic perspective views of details in intermediate configurations between the configurations;

[0062] Fig.11 Shows Figure 1 A schematic perspective view of a detail of a seat assembly of the embodiment of the present invention, the seat assembly being in an easy entry configuration;

[0063] Fig.12 Shows something like Figure 2 a schematic diagram of a seat assembly without upholstery material in an easy entry configuration;

[0064] Fig.13 is similar to Figure 4 , showing a first step in locking the latch when restoring the seat assembly to its nominal configuration;

[0065] Fig.14 is similar to Figure 4 , showing a second step of locking the latch when the seat assembly is restored to its nominal configuration; and

[0066] Fig.15 is with Figure 6 A similar view with the seat assembly in the so-called emergency exit position. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0067] In the various drawings, the same reference numerals represent the same or similar elements. For simplicity, only the elements useful for understanding the described embodiments are shown in the drawings and described in detail below.

[0068] In the following description, when referring to terms defining absolute positions, such as "front", "rear", "top", "bottom", "left", "right", etc., or terms defining relative positions, such as "above", "below", "upper", "lower", etc., or direction defining terms, such as "horizontal", "vertical", etc., unless otherwise specified, reference should be made to the drawings or the orientation of the vehicle seat in the normal use position.

[0069] In particular, the longitudinal direction X refers to the longitudinal direction of the seat assembly. The longitudinal direction of the seat assembly is considered to be the same as the longitudinal direction of the motor vehicle in which the seat assembly is installed. This longitudinal direction X corresponds to the normal driving direction of the vehicle. The longitudinal direction X is horizontal. Therefore, the transverse direction Y of the seat assembly corresponds to the transverse direction or lateral direction of the motor vehicle. This transverse direction corresponds to the direction perpendicular to the normal driving direction of the vehicle. The transverse direction Y is horizontal. Finally, the vertical direction Z is the vertical direction of the seat assembly, perpendicular to the longitudinal direction and the transverse direction.

[0070] Figure 1 Schematically, a detail of a motor vehicle seat assembly 10 is shown. Such a seat assembly 10 is usually arranged in the direction X of normal motor vehicle travel at the rear of the motor vehicle, behind one or more so-called front seats. In particular, the front seats can be closer to the motor vehicle steering wheel. In particular, the motor vehicle can have two or three front seats. The front seats can be different and separate, even spaced apart in the transverse direction Y. A console can then be placed between the two front seats and in front of the seat assembly 10.

[0071] In the example shown, the seat assembly 10 comprises two seats 1, 2. Alternatively, the seat assembly 10 may form a single seat or more than two seats, in particular three seats or even more than three seats.

[0072] As shown, the seat assembly 10 includes a seat cushion frame 11 and a backrest frame 12. The backrest frame 12 is pivotally mounted relative to the seat cushion frame 11 about a first transverse axis A1 by a hinge device 13. The hinge device 13 is well known to those skilled in the art and will not be described in detail herein. The hinge device 13 can be used to adjust the inclination of the backrest frame 12 relative to the seat cushion frame 11 and / or to fold the backrest frame 12 toward the seat cushion frame 11. Therefore, the hinge device 13 can be used to fold down the entire backrest of the seat assembly 10 at the same time.

[0073] Here, the backrest frame 12 of the seat assembly 10 defines a backrest frame 121 of the first seat 1 of the seat assembly 10 and a backrest frame 122 of the second seat 2 of the seat assembly 10. Advantageously, at least a portion of the backrest frame 122 of the second seat 2 is pivotally mounted relative to the seat cushion frame 11 about the second transverse axis A2, independently of the backrest frame 121 of the first seat 1. In this way, the backrest of the second seat 2 can be folded down while the backrest frame 121 of the first seat 1 is in a position to accommodate an occupant of the first seat 1. This is particularly interesting in the example shown, in which the backrest of the second seat 2 is narrower than the backrest of the first seat 1, is intended to be arranged approximately in the middle of the vehicle, and can be folded down to serve as an armrest for an occupant of the first side seat 1, or for an occupant of a seat on the other side, which is arranged symmetrically to the first seat 1 relative to the second seat 2 and is not formed by the seat assembly 10 in the example shown.

[0074] The seat cushion frame 12 is mounted on a movable section 14 (also called sliding section or convex section) of a slide 15. Each movable section 14 is associated with a fixed section 16 in the slide 15. The fixed section 16 is also called a "track" or a "concave part". The fixed section 16 is attached to the floor of a motor vehicle, for example, and is formed by the body or chassis of the motor vehicle. The fixed section 16 and the movable section 14 of the slide 15 can typically be metal. The slides 15 are located here on each side of the seat cushion frame 12. The slides 15 are separated from each other in the transverse direction Y. The two slides 15 are parallel and extend along the longitudinal direction X.

[0075] The seat assembly 10 includes an actuator 17 for synchronously controlling the movement of the movable sections 14 of the two slides 15 relative to the associated fixed sections 16. The actuator 17 is well known to those skilled in the art and will not be described in detail herein. The actuator 17 includes a motor 18, preferably a single motor 18. The motor 18 may be located between the two slides 15, such as Figure 1 The actuator 17 is associated with at least one device, not shown and well known to a person skilled in the art, for locking the movable sectors 14 of one of the slideways 15 in translation relative to the associated fixed sector 16, the actuator 17 preferably being associated with two such translation locking devices, each locking device making it possible to lock the sliding movement of the corresponding movable sector 14 relative to the associated fixed sector 16. Once the locking devices are unlocked, the movable sector 14 can slide under the action of the actuator 17 relative to its corresponding fixed sector 16 in the longitudinal direction X of the slideway 15, which corresponds to the longitudinal direction of the seat assembly 10.

[0076] Alternatively, the movement of the movable section 14 relative to the associated fixed section 16 is achieved by pulling or pushing the seat cushion frame 11 and / or the backrest frame 12. In this case, the seat assembly 10 may be without the actuator 17.

[0077] Each seat 1, 2 may include a headrest (not shown). For example, a socket 19 for accommodating a headrest support rod may be attached to a backrest frame 121, 122 of each seat 1, 2. Here, the socket 19 is welded to the backrest frame 121, 122 of the seat 1, 2. The length of the headrest support rod is variable to allow adjustment of the height of the headrest position. Alternatively or additionally, the headrest frame of each headrest is movable relative to the headrest support rod to achieve height adjustment of the headrest position.

[0078] Each seat 1, 2 further includes a cushion frame 111, 112, and the two cushion frames 111, 112 are formed by the cushion frame 11 of the seat assembly 10. Here, the cushion frames 111, 112 of the two seats 1, 2 are fixed to each other, and the two cushion frames 111, 112 are integrated.

[0079] The cushion frame 11 of the seat assembly 10 includes two lateral flanges 20, which are connected by a cross member 21. Here, the cushion frame 11 includes three cross members 21, one of which is arranged near the front end of the seat assembly 10, and the other two are arranged near the rear end of the seat assembly 10. The longitudinal member 22 between the cross member 21 located near the front end of the seat assembly 10 and one of the cross members 21 located near the rear end of the seat assembly 10 defines the cushion frames 111, 112 of the seats 1, 2.

[0080] The seat cushion frame 11 of the seat assembly 10 further comprises two lateral supports 23. Each lateral flange 20 is rigidly attached to the respective lateral support 23. In this way, each lateral flange 20 is integral with the respective lateral support 23. Each lateral support 23 is pivotally mounted relative to the movable section 14 of the respective slide 15 about a third transverse axis A3 (common to both lateral supports 23). Here, therefore, the third axis A3 is movable along the longitudinal direction X. The third axis A3 is preferably located near the front end of the lateral support 23 and / or the movable section 14 of the slide 15.

[0081] exist Figure 1 and 2 In the position shown, the lateral supports 23 are prevented from pivoting relative to the third transverse axis A3 by latching devices 24 connecting them to the respective movable sections 14. A latching device 24 can be mounted on each lateral support 23. For example, each latching device 24 comprises a shaft integral with the movable profile 14 of the slide 15 and an associated hook linked to the cushion frame 11, in particular to one of the lateral supports 23. For example, in the latched position of the latch 24, each shaft is at least partially housed in a recess formed by the hook, and in the unlocked position of the latch, that is to say when the shaft is no longer housed in the hook recess, the hook releases the shaft.

[0082] In addition, if Figure 2 As shown, each lateral support member 23 has a slot 25 extending in the longitudinal direction X of the seat assembly 10. Each slot 25 has a closed rear end 25a. Here, each slot 25 forms a notch at its rear end 25a. For example, the notch is substantially circular, and its diameter is greater than the width of the rest of the slot 25. According to the example shown, each slot 25 also has a front end 25b, which is also closed. In this way, the length of each slot 25 is limited. The length of each slot 25 is less than the stroke length of the movable section 14 in the corresponding fixed section 16.

[0083] The seat assembly 10 also comprises a structure 26, here shaped like an "H", for connecting the seat cushion frame 11, in particular the lateral supports 23, to the fixed section 16 of the slideway 15. Thus, in the example shown, the connecting structure 26 comprises two connecting rods 27 connected together by a cross member 28. Thus, the two connecting rods 27 and the cross member 28 are integral.

[0084] The two connecting rods 27 are pivotably mounted at a first end about a common fourth transverse axis A4 relative to the respective fixing section 16. The fourth transverse axis A4 is fixed.

[0085] Each connecting rod 27 is also pivotally mounted at a second end about a fifth transverse axis A5 relative to a slide 29 guided in translation by the slot 25 of the corresponding lateral support 23 along the longitudinal direction X. The fifth transverse axis A5 is therefore movable along the longitudinal direction X of the seat assembly 10 .

[0086] The seat assembly 10 also comprises a gas spring 30. In such a gas spring 30, a piston forming a first longitudinal end of the gas spring 30 is pushed away from a gas spring body forming a second longitudinal end of the gas spring 30 by receiving pressurized gas in a chamber delimited by the piston and the gas spring body, in a manner known per se.

[0087] The gas spring 30 is pivotally mounted at a first end relative to the movable section 14 of the slideway 15 about a sixth transverse axis A6. The gas spring 30 is also pivotally mounted at a second end opposite to the first end relative to the seat cushion frame 11 (more precisely, the flange 20 of the seat cushion frame 11) about a seventh transverse axis A7. Therefore, the sixth axis A6 and the seventh axis A7 are movable in the longitudinal direction X of the seat assembly 10.

[0088] In the following, a latching device 24 is described which is particularly suitable for the above-mentioned seat assembly 10. In fact, the latching device 24 is suitable for automatic latching / unlatching according to the position of the movable section 14 of the slide 15 relative to the fixed section 16. Advantageously, the latching device 24 is mechanical, without any electronic device, in particular an electric sensor or actuator.

[0089] like Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the latch device 24 here comprises hooks 51, 52 (or jaws). Two hooks 51 are fixed relative to the seat cushion frame 11, and one hook 52 is movable about the eighth transverse axis A8 and can be pivotally mounted relative to the seat cushion frame 11.

[0090] Each fixing hook 51 has two teeth 53 extending vertically downwards, forming a recess 54 suitable for receiving a shaft 55, which extends substantially in the transverse direction Y of the seat assembly 10, and the shaft 55 is here integral with the movable section 14 of the slide 15. Therefore, when the shaft 55 is received in the recess 54 of the fixing hook 51, the fixing hook 51 limits or even prevents the relative movement of the seat cushion frame 11 with respect to the movable section 14 of the slide 15, on the one hand in the longitudinal direction X, and on the other hand in the vertical direction Z, in the direction of the seat cushion frame 11 towards the movable section 14.

[0091] Similarly, the movable hook 52 has two teeth 56 which, when the movable hook 52 is in the latched position of the latch device 24, extend horizontally toward the rear of the vehicle seat assembly 10, forming a recess 57 suitable for receiving the shaft 55. In the latched position of the movable hook 52 of the latch device 24, with the shaft 55 received in its recess 57, the movable hook 52 limits or even prevents the relative movement of the seat cushion frame 11 with respect to the movable section 14 of the slide 15, on the one hand in the vertical direction Z and on the other hand in the horizontal direction X, so that the seat cushion frame 11 and the movable section 14 are away from each other.

[0092] The movable hook 52 is pivotably mounted relative to the fixed hook 51 of the latch device 24 and more generally relative to the seat cushion frame 11 about an eighth transverse axis A8.

[0093] In order to keep the movable hook 52 in its latched position, the latch device 24 has a latch cam 58. The latch cam 58 is movable. Here, the latch cam 58 is pivotally mounted relative to the fixed hook 51 of the latch device 24 about a ninth transverse axis A9. The latch cam 58 is elastically biased to Figure 3 and Figure 4 58 and one of the fixed hooks 51. The latching cam 58 is shown in the position shown, in which position it blocks the movable hook 52 in its latched position. Here, the resilient bias is achieved by a torsion spring 59 arranged between the latching cam 58 on the one hand and one of the fixed hooks 51 on the other hand. In addition, the latching cam 58 and the movable hook 52 are resiliently biased towards each other, here by a tension spring 60 arranged between the latching cam 58 and the movable hook 52. The latching cam 58 has an abutment projection 61, which is suitable for cooperating with a complementary abutment projection 62 on the movable hook 52 to keep the movable hook 52 in its latched position, in particular under the action of the torsion spring 59.

[0094] The latching cam 58 is integral with a rod 63 extending parallel to the transverse direction Y. In particular, the rod 63 and the latching cam 58 may be made of a single material.

[0095] The shape of the lever 63 cooperates with the first cam 64, and when the first cam 64 pivots about its own rotation axis A10 (in this case the transverse axis), the cam projection 65 of the first cam 64 abuts the lever 63, allowing the latch cam 58 to rotate about its rotation axis A9.

[0096] According to the example shown, the first cam 64 in turn has a pin 66 extending parallel to the transverse direction Y of the seat assembly 10. Figure 6 As shown, the pin 66 is housed in an oblong opening 67 of the second cam 68 . The pin 66 is suitable for pivoting relative to the second cam 68 about an eleventh transverse axis A11 , which is movable in the oblong opening 67 .

[0097] The second cam 68 is pivotably mounted relative to the fixing hook 51 about a twelfth transverse axis A12. Here, the second cam 68 has a substantially triangular portion 69 on a first side of the oblong opening 67, which portion 69 has rounded corners. On the other side of the oblong opening 67, the second cam 68 has an "L"-shaped portion 70, one leg 701 of which extends in the plane (X, Z) and the other leg 702 extends parallel to the transverse direction Y. The second leg 682 is suitable for being grasped by a rear seat occupant to manipulate the second cam 68, in particular to rotate it about its rotation axis A11. Thus, the "L"-shaped portion 70 of the second cam 68 enables a seat occupant located behind the seat assembly 10 to manually unlock the latch device 24. However, the portion 70 is optional. The shape of the portion 70 may also be different.

[0098] The following describes the kinematics of the configuration of the seat assembly 10 that is modified from Figure 2 The first configuration 10A for accommodating at least one occupant of the seat assembly 10 is converted into Fig.12 10C in an easy-entry configuration.

[0099] As mentioned above, in Figure 2 In the embodiment, the seat assembly 10 is in a first configuration 10A that allows accommodating at least one occupant of the seat assembly 10. Please note that the first configuration 10A for accommodating at least one occupant is variable. Specifically:

[0100] - the backrest frame 12 can be tilted more or less relative to the seat cushion frame 11 about the first transverse axis A1;

[0101] - The backrest frame 12 can even be folded downward relative to the seat cushion frame 11;

[0102] The longitudinal position of the movable section 14 may differ from the fixed section 16 of the slide 15, for example to accommodate larger or smaller occupants. In the first configuration 10A, the longitudinal position of the movable section 14 is pre-variable within the entire range allowed by the length of the slot 25 accommodating the slide 29.

[0103] In any case, in the first configuration 10A of the seat assembly 10, the latch device 24 is closed, preventing the seat cushion frame 11 from rotating about the third transverse axis A3 relative to the movable section 14 of the slideway 15. Figure 4 As shown, the movable hook 52 is in the latching position of the latch device 24, and the shaft 55 is received in the recess 57 between the two teeth 56 of the movable hook 52. The movable hook 52 is elastically biased by the spring 60 on the latch cam 58, into a position where the stopper protrusions 61, 62 of the movable hook 52 and the latch cam 58 contact each other to prevent the movable hook 52 from rotating and thus unlocking the latch device 24. The latch cam 58 is also elastically biased by the torsion spring 59. Figure 4 Position shown.

[0104] The latch of the slide 15 is also closed to prevent the movable section 14 from moving relative to the fixed section 16 .

[0105] from Figure 2 The configuration 10A shown switches to the configuration 10C for access to the rear seats, first commanding the opening of the latch of the slide 15 and a movement F1 of the movable section 14 of the slide 15 relative to the fixed section 16 in the longitudinal direction X. This movement is here effected by the slide actuator 17 .

[0106] During this movement, the slide 29 moves in the slot 25 until it stops at the rear end 25a of the slot 25. The seat assembly 10 is then in the second intermediate configuration 10B, as shown in FIG. Figure 3 shown.

[0107] Preferably, the latching device 24 is latched for most of the movement F1. Thus, preferably, the latching device 24 remains latched for most of the movement F1, preferably substantially until each slider 29 abuts against the rear end 25a of the slot 25. Therefore, when the slider 29 abuts against the rear end 25a of the slot 25, being accommodated in the recess formed therein, or just before the slider 29 abuts against the rear end 25a of the slot 25, the latching device 24 is preferably unlocked.

[0108] For this reason, Figure 6As shown, during the movement of the movable section 14, the triangular portion 69 of the second cam 68 contacts and follows the ramp 71, which is fixedly mounted relative to the fixed section 16 of the slideway 15. The ramp 71 can be attached to the fixed section 16 or fixed to the motor vehicle chassis. Alternatively, the ramp 71 is integral with the fixed section 16 of the slideway 15.

[0109] The triangular portion 69 of the second cam 68 follows the ramp 71, and the second cam 68 pivots about its rotation axis A12. This rotation of the second cam 68 causes the first cam 64 to rotate in the opposite direction about its rotation axis A10, and the pin 66 received in the oblong opening 67 is driven by the rotation of the second cam 68. Then, the cam protrusion 65 of the first cam 64 pivots P1 about its rotation axis A9 by pushing the rod 63.

[0110] like Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, the pivoting P1 of the latch cam 58 about its rotation axis A9 causes the two stopper protrusions 61, 62 to no longer contact, thereby allowing the movable hook 52 to pivot P2 about its rotation axis A8 under the drive of the tension spring 60 until it abuts against the latch cam 58. In doing so, the movable hook 52 releases the shaft 55 so that the seat cushion frame 11 of the seat assembly 10 can pivot about the third transverse axis A3 to raise the rear end of the seat cushion frame 11 relative to the front end of the seat cushion frame located near the third transverse axis A3.

[0111] As the movable section 14 continues to move relative to the fixed section 16 and / or the cushion frame 11 begins to pivot about the third transverse axis A3, the triangular portion 69 of the second cam 68 no longer contacts the ramp 71. Then, the torsion spring 59 returns the latch cam 58, which pivots about its rotation axis A8 toward its latched position, and the movable hook 52 is in the latched position of the latch device 24. Then, the stopper protrusions 61, 62 come into contact again, but on different surfaces, so that the movable hook 52 is latched in the unlocked position of the latch device 24 by the latch cam 58.

[0112] It should be noted that during the movement of the slider 29 in the slot 25, the first protrusion 31 of the cushion frame 11 (here the lateral support 23, which is shaped to extend towards the corresponding connecting rod 27 of the connecting structure 26) does not come into contact with the second protrusion 32 on the corresponding connecting rod 27. Here, the first protrusion 31 is in the form of a cylindrical pin, the axis of which is parallel to the transverse direction Y of the seat assembly 10. The second protrusion 32 is substantially L-shaped, with a first leg extending along the connecting rod 27 and a second leg extending parallel to the transverse direction Y to the vicinity of the lateral support 23, that is, the free end of the second leg of the second protrusion 32 is at a distance from the lateral support 23 that is less than the height of the pin forming the first protrusion 31, measured along the transverse direction Y. In fact, when the slider 29 passes through the slot 25, the pin forming the first protrusion 31 extends vertically below the second leg of the second protrusion 32 without abutting against the rear end 25a of the slot 25.

[0113] However, when the slider 29 abuts against the rear end 25a of the groove 25 and is accommodated in the recess formed therein, as shown in FIG. Figure 5 As shown, the first protrusion 31 abuts against the second protrusion 32. Since the recess is circular and has a diameter greater than the width of the slot 25, when the slide 29 is accommodated in the recess, the vertical extension of the second protrusion 32 is lower than when the slide 29 passes through the rest of the slot 25 and is opposite to the first protrusion 31. Then, the stopper between the first protrusion 31 and the second protrusion 32 prevents the relative movement of the slide 29 in the slot 25, thereby preventing the sliding movement of the seat cushion frame 11 relative to the movable section 14 in the direction of the slot 25.

[0114] from Figure 5 Starting from the middle position 10B, the seat cushion frame 11 tilts forward around the third transverse axis A3 (see arrow F3), which can be achieved by unlocking the latch device 24 before the seat assembly 10 reaches the second middle configuration 10B or when the seat assembly 10 has reached the second middle configuration 10B.

[0115] In this case, the continuous movement F2 of the movable section 14 relative to the fixed section 16 tends to increase the distance between the rotation of the third axis A3, which is the rotation of the movable section 15 of the cushion frame 11 relative to the slide 15, and the rotation of the fourth axis A4, which is the rotation of the connecting rod 27 relative to the fixed section 16 of the slide 15, which causes the cushion frame 11 to rotate around the third axis A3, which here causes a forward tilt in the cushion frame 11. Here, advantageously, this rotation of the cushion frame 11 around the third axis A3 is supported by the gas spring 30. In other words, the gas spring 30 helps to pivot the cushion frame 11 around the third axis A3. In this way, the motor 18 of the actuator 17 can maintain reduced characteristics and size, and the actuator can be mainly used to move the movable section 14 relative to the fixed section 16, while the contribution of the actuator 17 to the pivoting of the cushion frame 11 around the third axis A3 can be reduced. This allows the actuator 17 and the motor 18 of the actuator 17 to be smaller, quieter, lighter and cheaper.

[0116] At the end of the travel of the movable section 14 relative to the fixed section 16, the rotation of the seat cushion frame 11 causes Fig.12 The easy entry configuration 10C is shown. In this configuration 10C of the seat assembly 10 for accessing the rear seats, the seat cushion frame 11 is advantageously pivoted forward about the third axis A3 by an angle between 30° and 45° relative to the first configuration 10A. In this way, the seat assembly 10 frees up a large amount of space at its bottom, making it easier for an individual to pass through the seat behind the seat assembly 10. To achieve this forward tilt position of the seat cushion frame 11, the connecting rod 2 itself is rotated about the fourth axis A4 by an angle between 75° and 85°.

[0117] Alternatively or optionally, in the easy entry configuration 10C, the back frame 12 forms an angle of 70° to 90° with the vertical direction Z, thereby limiting the overall size of the backrest of the seat assembly 10 and further facilitating access to a seat located behind the seat assembly 10 .

[0118] To return the seat assembly 10 from the easy entry configuration 10C to the first occupant accommodation configuration 10A, the actuator 17 is controlled to move the movable section 14 rearwardly relative to the fixed section 16 by F4. Fig.11 As shown, the first protrusion 31 and the second protrusion 32 are in contact, so the movement of the movable profile 14 tends to bring the third axis A3 and the fourth axis A4 closer together, causing the seat cushion frame 11 to move along the third axis A3. Fig.12The clockwise rotation F5 in the groove 25 tends to fold the cushion frame 11 back into contact with the movable profile 14 of the slideway 15. As the movement F4 continues, the slide 29 is released from the recess at the rear end 25a of the groove 25, so that the first protrusion 31 and the second protrusion 32 are no longer in abutment. The slide 29 can then slide in the groove 25 while the movable section 14 slides in the fixed section 16.

[0119] The latching of the latch device 24 can be controlled as follows.

[0120] In the first step, if Fig.13 As shown, the shaft 55 contacts one tooth 56 of the movable hook 52, forming a finger 72 that is longer than the other tooth 56 of the movable hook 52. This contact occurs, for example, when the seat cushion frame 11 of the seat assembly 10 is folded toward the movable section 14 of the slide 15. The contact of the shaft 55 with the finger 72 causes the movable hook 52 to pivot P4 about its rotation axis A8, tending to move the movable hook 52 away from the cam latch 58. The movable hook 52 pivots until it reaches the latched position of the latch device 24, and the stopper projections 61, 62 are no longer in contact. At the same time, the second cam 68 pivots P5 along the ramp 71 to separate the stopper projections 61, 62.

[0121] Then, with the second cam 68 no longer guided by the ramp 71, the latching cam 58 pivots P6 about its axis of rotation A9 under the combined action of the torsion spring 59 and the tension spring 60, towards the latching position of its movable hook 52, in the latching position of its latching device 24. The latching device 24 then returns to Figure 3 and Figure 4 Configuration shown.

[0122] Fig.15 A fourth configuration 10D of the seat assembly 10 is shown, which enables emergency exit of rear seat occupants, for example in the event of an accident. This configuration 10D differs from the easy entry configuration 10C in that the movable section 14 of the slide 15 is not in the front position beforehand (unless adjusted accordingly in the first configuration 10A). As a result, the slide 29 does not abut against the rear end 25a of the slot 25 in the lateral support 23 of the seat cushion frame 11. This fourth configuration 10D is achieved by unlocking the latch device 24, for example by means of unlocking the latch device 24 accessible to the rear seat occupant. For example, the rear seat occupant directly activates the second cam 69, for example by grasping an L-shaped portion attached to the second cam 69. The rear seat occupant can then perform a push F6 on the backrest frame 12 to pivot F7 the seat cushion frame 11 relative to the movable section 14 of the slide 15 about the third axis A3. Once the latch is released, the gas spring 30 also assists in the pivoting F7 of the seat cushion frame 11. The movable section 14 is not moved in the fixed section 16 by the push F6 .

[0123] like Fig.15 As shown, in the fourth configuration 10D, the forward inclination of the seat cushion frame 11 is less than that in the easy entry configuration 10C. For example, here, the seat cushion frame 11 is inclined at an angle between 40° and 60° relative to its position in the first configuration 10A. Similarly, the backrest frame 12 is more inclined relative to the vertical direction, so the backrest frame 12 here has a larger form factor than the form factor in the easy entry configuration 10C of the seat assembly 10. For example, in the fourth configuration 10D of the seat assembly 10, the backrest frame 12 forms an angle of 60° to 70° with the longitudinal direction X. Similarly, in this fourth configuration 10D, the inclination of the connecting rod 27 relative to the horizontal direction is less than that in the easy entry configuration 10C of the seat assembly 10. For example, the connecting rod 27 forms an angle of 40° to 60° with the horizontal direction, in particular with the longitudinal direction X.

[0124] It should be noted here that the rear seat occupant can easily unlock the latch device 24 by grasping the second cam 68 through the "L" shaped portion 70 and pivoting these second cams 68 about their rotation axis A12. Rotating the second cam 68 causes the first cam 64 to rotate, which in turn pivots the latch cam 58, thereby releasing the movable hook 52 to rotate.

[0125] The present disclosure is not limited to the examples described above in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. On the contrary, the present disclosure includes all variants and combinations that a person skilled in the art can conceive in the context of the protection sought.

[0126] In the case of the example described, the actuator 17 facilitates the switching from the nominal configuration to the easy entry configuration. However, in a downgraded version, the seat may not have the actuator 17. In this case, the switching from the occupant accommodation configuration to the easy entry configuration is at least partially performed manually: with each latch device 24 unlocked, the seat assembly 10 is pivoted by exerting a force on the seat assembly 10, in particular on the backrest and / or the seat cushion, in the horizontal longitudinal direction X. This force may be a push force, in particular exerted by a person behind the seat assembly 10, or a pull force, in particular exerted by a person outside the vehicle equipped with the seat assembly 10.

[0127] Preferably, the number of connecting rods 27 of the connecting device 26 is equal to the number of slideways 15. However, alternatively, even in the case where the seat assembly 10 includes two slideways 15, the connecting rods 27 may be provided.

[0128] In addition, the seat assembly 10 preferably does not include other connecting rods or links between these components other than the above-mentioned components. However, alternatively, the seat assembly 10 can include other connecting rods and / or other connections between these components, especially to ensure other seat functions corresponding to configurations other than the above-mentioned configurations.

[0129] According to another aspect, in the example described, the rod 63 is integral, preferably unitary, with the latch cam 58. Alternatively, the rod 63 is integral, preferably unitary, with the first cam 64. In this case, the shape of the rod 63 cooperates with the cam protrusion of the latch cam 58 so that when the first cam 64 pivots about its own transverse rotation axis A10, the pin 63 that rotates with the rotation of the first cam 64 and abuts against the cam protrusion of the latch cam 58 causes the latch cam 58 to rotate about its rotation axis A9.

[0130] Alternatively, the rod 63, the latch cam 58 and the first cam 64 are integral. For example, the rod 63, the latch cam 58 and the first cam 64 form a single piece.

[0131] Furthermore, in the example described, the slide 29 is received in the groove 25, and the second end of each connecting rod 27 is pivotally mounted about the fifth axis A5 relative to the slide 29. However, those skilled in the art may devise other ways of mounting the second end of each connecting rod 27 so that it can pivot about an axis movable in the longitudinal direction relative to the seat cushion frame 11. For example, the slide 29 may be mounted on a complementary rib.

[0132] In the example described, a gas spring 30 is used. However, a person skilled in the art may use any suitable linear actuator, ie any actuator whose length can vary, in particular a gas cylinder. However, a gas spring 30 appears to be a preferred solution, since it a priori does not require an external energy source.

[0133] In the example described, the longitudinal movement of the slide 19, and the longitudinal movement of the fifth axis A5, is limited by the stop of the slide 19 against the longitudinal end 25a of the slot 25. However, those skilled in the art may devise other means of forming a stop that limits the longitudinal movement of the slide 19, and more generally the longitudinal movement of the fifth axis A5. For example, the stop may be formed by a protrusion different from the end of the slot 25.

[0134] Finally, the described latch device has a second cam 68 that cooperates with the ramp 71 to rotate the first cam 64. Alternatively, the second cam 68 that cooperates with the ramp 71 directly drives the latch cam 58 to rotate.

Claims

1. A vehicle seat assembly, comprising: - Seat cushion frame (11); - at least one slideway (15) comprising a movable section (14) accommodated in translation in a fixed section (16) intended to be fixed to the chassis of a motor vehicle, the seat cushion frame (11) being mounted so as to be movable relative to the movable section (14); - a selectively activatable latching device (24) for latching / unlatching at least one movement of the seat cushion frame (11) relative to the movable section (14), the latching device (24) comprising: - a shaft (55) integral with said movable section (14), a hook (52) movable between a latching position of the latching device and an unlocking position of the latching device, in which the hook (52) is hooked to the shaft (55), the movable hook (52) being connected to the seat cushion frame (11), a movable latch cam (58) for selectively latching the hook (52) in a latched position of the latch device (24), - a device (64, 68, 71) for driving the latch cam (58) between the latch position of the hook (52) and at least one other position, wherein the hook (52) is in the latch position of the latch device (24), the driving device (64, 68, 71) of the latch cam (58) comprising a first cam (68) and a cam track (71), wherein the cam track (71) is suitable for causing the first cam (68) to drive the latch cam (58) to move when the latch cam (58) moves along the cam track (71), and the cam track (71) is fixed relative to the fixed section (16).

2. The vehicle seat assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that: The movable hook (52) is mounted to be rotatable relative to the seat cushion frame (11) about a transverse axis (A8).

3. The vehicle seat assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that: In a first latched position, the latch cam (58) holds the hook (52) in a latched position of the latch device (24), and in a second latched position, the latch cam (58) holds the hook (52) in an unlocked position of the latch device (24).

4. The vehicle seat assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that: The latch cam (58) is resiliently biased toward a position in which the latch cam (58) retains the hook (52) in a latched position of the latch device (24).

5. The vehicle seat assembly according to claim 4, characterized in that: The latch cam (58) is elastically biased toward a position in which the latch cam (58) holds the hook (52) in the latch position of the latch device (24) by a torsion spring (59) inserted between the latch cam (58) and a component integral with the seat cushion frame (11).

6. The vehicle seat assembly according to claim 4, characterized in that: The latch cam (58) is resiliently biased toward a position in which the latch cam (58) holds the hook (52) in a position that unlocks the latch device (24).

7. The vehicle seat assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that: The latch cam (58) and the hook (52) are resiliently biased toward each other.

8. The vehicle seat assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that: The hook (52) is mounted to freely rotate relative to the seat cushion frame (11).

9. The vehicle seat assembly according to claim 8, characterized in that: The hook (52) is mounted to freely rotate relative to the seat cushion frame (11) about an axis (A8) oriented transversely relative to the vehicle seat assembly (10).

10. The vehicle seat assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that: The latch cam (58) is mounted to freely rotate relative to the seat cushion frame (11).

11. The vehicle seat assembly according to claim 10, characterized in that: The latch cam (58) is mounted to freely rotate relative to the seat cushion frame (11) about an axis (A9) oriented transversely relative to the seat assembly (10).

12. The vehicle seat assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that: The means (64, 68, 71) for driving the latch cam (58) comprises a second cam (64) which is inserted between the first cam (68) and the latch cam (58) so that movement of the first cam (68) along the cam path (71) causes movement of the second cam (64), which in turn causes the latch cam (58) to move from its position for latching the hook (52) to a position for latching the latch device (24), to another position.

13. The vehicle seat assembly according to claim 12, characterized in that: The latch cam (58) is integral with a rod (63) adapted to be driven by the movement of the second cam (64) so ​​that the latch cam (58) moves from a position where it latches the hook (52) to a position where it latches the latch device (24), to another position.

14. The vehicle seat assembly according to claim 13, characterized in that: The rod (63) is integral with the latch cam (58).

15. The vehicle seat assembly according to claim 12, characterized in that: The second cam (64) is mounted to be rotatable relative to the seat cushion frame (11).

16. The vehicle seat assembly according to claim 15, characterized in that: The second cam (64) is mounted to be rotatable relative to the seat cushion frame (11) about a transversely oriented axis (A10).

17. The vehicle seat assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that: The hook (52) comprises an abutment protrusion (72) adapted to cooperate with the shaft (55) so as to move the hook (52) towards a latching position (P4) of the latching device (24) when the abutment protrusion (72) abuts against the shaft (55).

18. The vehicle seat assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that: The seat cushion frame (11) is mounted to be rotatable relative to the movable section (14), and the latch device (24) is suitable for latching the seat cushion frame (11) and the movable section (14) together near the second longitudinal end of the seat cushion frame (11) opposite to the first longitudinal end.

19. The vehicle seat assembly according to claim 18, characterized in that: The seat cushion frame (11) is mounted to be rotatable relative to the movable section (14) about an axis (A3) oriented transversely to the vehicle seat assembly (10).

20. The vehicle seat assembly according to claim 19, characterized in that The seat cushion frame (11) is mounted to be rotatable relative to the movable section (14) about an axis (A3), the axis (A3) being oriented transversely to the vehicle seat assembly (10) near a first longitudinal end of the seat cushion frame (11).

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