Vehicle seat backrest and seat comprising same

Abstract

A vehicle seat back (16) comprising: a back frame (17); a backrest upholstery (36, 38, 40) including an upholstery support (45), the upholstery support (45) being attached to the backrest frame (17); and a rear interior panel (48A-48C). The rear interior trim panel (48A-48C) is rigidly attached to the back frame (17). The rear interior trim panel (48A-48C) forms a support projection (62A-62C, 64A-64C) which bears against the interior trim support (45) at least when an occupant leans against the backrest (16) to ensure a suspension function of the interior trim support (45).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a vehicle seat backrest, in particular a motor vehicle seat backrest. The invention also relates to a vehicle seat comprising such a backrest. Background Art

[0002] In the automotive field, in particular, it is known to produce vehicle seat backs by covering the back frame with foam. The assembly is then covered with a cover.

[0003] A seat backrest can integrate a variety of comfort and / or safety functions. To this end, it is known to attach an upholstery support to a backrest frame, to mount the different elements required to implement the comfort and / or safety functions on the support or on the backrest frame, and then to cover the assembly thus obtained with foam. A cover then covers the assembly.

[0004] The upholstery support is usually formed by a plate which is attached to the backrest frame at its longitudinal ends. In this case, however, the upholstery support contributes to the comfort of the seat occupant by providing support for the occupant's back.

[0005] However, it is difficult to obtain satisfactory back support from the upholstery support, particularly due to the long length of the upholstery support. Therefore, either the support is too rigid so that the occupant feels some discomfort in the back, or conversely, the support is too soft and the occupant has the feeling of sinking into the backrest upholstery without feeling any back support.

[0006] This manual improves this situation. Summary of the invention

[0007] To this end, a vehicle seat back is described, comprising:

[0008] -backrest frame;

[0009] - a backrest trim comprising a trim support attached to the backrest frame; and

[0010] - a rear interior trim panel rigidly attached to the backrest frame;

[0011] Wherein, the rear interior panel forms at least one supporting protrusion, which is intended to support against the interior support member at least when the occupant leans against the backrest. The at least one supporting protrusion preferably supports against the interior support member, and at least a portion of the at least one supporting protrusion is also preferably suitable for elastically deforming under the supporting action of the interior support member to ensure the function of suspending the interior support member.

[0012] Thus, advantageously, a relatively flexible interior trim support may be maintained while providing back support to a seat occupant, preferably when the seat occupant most desires such support.

[0013] According to a preferred embodiment, the vehicle seat back comprises one or more of the following features, taken alone or in combination:

[0014] - the rear interior panel comprises at least two support protrusions, which are arranged substantially symmetrically with respect to a middle plane of the rear interior panel;

[0015] - the rear interior panel comprises at least one first support protrusion, preferably at least two first support protrusions, and at least one second support protrusion, preferably at least two second support protrusions, one or more first support protrusions and one or more second support protrusions being offset from the rear interior panel in the longitudinal direction;

[0016] - the rear interior panel comprises at least one first support protrusion, preferably at least two first support protrusions, and at least one second support protrusion, preferably at least two second support protrusions, each first support protrusion being arranged substantially opposite to the second support protrusion in the transverse direction of the rear interior panel;

[0017] - each supporting projection comprises, preferably consists of, a base and a blade extending from the base, the base holding at least a portion of the blade at a distance from the base surface of the rear interior trim panel, the blade preferably being elastically deformable, in particular in the case of bearing an interior trim support;

[0018] - the blade comprises, at a first free end, a projection for elastically engaging the rear interior trim panel on an upright of the backrest frame, each elastically engaging projection preferably having a notch which is pressed down into abutment against the upright of the backrest frame in the event of pressure exerted by an occupant of the vehicle seat on the interior trim support;

[0019] - the blade is attached at one end to a base surface of the rear interior trim panel, the blade preferably being curved between the base and said one end, the curvature of the blade being directed towards the interior trim support;

[0020] - the interior trim support has at least one supporting protrusion adapted to cooperate with at least one supporting protrusion on its side facing the rear interior trim panel, the interior trim support preferably having at least one supporting protrusion adapted to cooperate with each supporting protrusion;

[0021] at a second free end, the blade is bent in a manner substantially complementary to the free end of at least one bearing projection of the trim support with which the blade is intended to cooperate; and

[0022] The blade of at least one first supporting projection is intended to be clamped, preferably clamped, between the blade of at least one second supporting projection and at least one bearing projection of the interior trim support.

[0023] According to a further aspect, a vehicle seat, in particular a motor vehicle seat, is also disclosed, comprising a seat bottom with a seat bottom frame and a backrest as described above in all combinations, the backrest frame being attached to the seat bottom frame, preferably so as to be pivotable about a transverse axis. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0024] Other features and advantages will become apparent from the following description of one of the embodiments given by way of non-limiting example with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0025] Figure 1 schematically illustrates a side view of an example of a vehicle seat;

[0026] Figure 2 Schematically shows Figure 1 A perspective view of a backrest of a vehicle seat;

[0027] Figure 3 Schematically shows Figure 2 An exploded view of a vehicle seat back with all covers removed;

[0028] Figure 4 Schematically shows Figure 2 and Figure 3 A perspective view of a frame of a vehicle seat back;

[0029] Figure 5 It shows that it can be Figure 3 A first example of a backrest subassembly implemented in a vehicle seat back;

[0030] Figure 6 The schematic diagram shows that Figure 5 A perspective view of a first example of a rear interior trim panel implemented in a subassembly of;

[0031] Figure 7 Schematically shows Figure 5 A partial cross-sectional view of a first detail of a backrest subassembly, comprising Figure 6 rear interior panel;

[0032] Figure 8 Schematically shows Figure 5 A partial cross-sectional view of a second detail of the backrest subassembly, comprising Figure 6 rear interior panel;

[0033] Fig. 9 The schematic diagram shows that Figure 5 a perspective view of a second example of a rear interior trim panel used in a backrest subassembly of;

[0034] Fig.10 Schematically shows Figure 5 A partial cross-sectional view of a detail of the backrest subassembly, including Fig. 9 rear interior panel;

[0035] Fig.11 The schematic diagram shows that Figure 5 a perspective view of a third example of a rear interior trim panel used in a backrest subassembly of;

[0036] Fig.12 Schematically shows Figure 5 A partial cross-sectional view of a first detail of a backrest subassembly, comprising Fig.11 rear interior panel;

[0037] Fig.13 Schematically shows Figure 5 A partial cross-sectional view of a second detail of the backrest subassembly, comprising Fig.11 Rear interior panel. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0038] In the various figures, the same reference numerals represent the same or similar elements. For the sake of brevity, only the elements useful for understanding the described embodiments are shown in the figures and described in detail below.

[0039] In the following description, when referring to terms defining absolute positions, such as the terms "front", "rear", "top", "bottom", "left", "right", etc., or terms defining relative positions, such as the terms "above", "below", "upper", "lower", etc., or directional qualifiers, such as "horizontal", "vertical", etc., unless otherwise specified, the reference is to the orientation of the figure or the vehicle seat in its normal use position.

[0040] In particular, the longitudinal direction X means the longitudinal direction of the seat. The longitudinal direction of the seat is considered to be identical to the longitudinal direction of the motor vehicle in which the seat is installed. This longitudinal direction X corresponds to the normal direction of travel of the vehicle. The longitudinal direction X is horizontal. The transverse direction Y of the seat thus corresponds to the transverse or lateral direction of the motor vehicle. This transverse direction corresponds to a direction perpendicular to the normal direction of travel of the vehicle. The transverse direction Y is horizontal. Finally, the vertical direction Z is the vertical direction of the seat, which is perpendicular to the longitudinal and transverse directions.

[0041] Figure 1 A motor vehicle seat 10 is schematically shown mounted on a sliding mechanism 12 .

[0042] The seat 10 comprises a seat bottom 14 with a seat bottom frame 15, on which a backrest 16 with a backrest frame 17 is mounted. Here, the backrest frame 17 is pivoted relative to the seat bottom frame 15 about a transverse axis 18. For this purpose, a hinge mechanism 20 is arranged between the seat bottom frame 15 and the seat back frame 17.

[0043] The seat bottom 14 is mounted on a movable section 22, also called a slide or male section, via feet 24, 26. Each movable section 22 is part of the slide 12 and is associated with a fixed section 28. The fixed section 28 is also called a "track" or "female section". The fixed section 28 is attached to the floor 30 of the motor vehicle.

[0044] In this example, the seat 10 comprises a manual control element 32, referred to as a handle, for controlling the sliding of the slide 12. This manual control element 32 makes it possible in particular to lock and unlock a stop system for stopping the sliding of the movable section 22 relative to the corresponding fixed section 28. Once the stop system has been unlocked, the manual control element 32 can also be used to slide the movable section 22 relative to its corresponding fixed section 28 of the slide 12 in the longitudinal direction X of the slide 12. The fixed section 28 and the movable section 22 of the slide 12 are usually metal.

[0045] Alternatively, the displacement of the movable section 22 relative to the fixed section 28 is controlled by an actuator.

[0046] According to the example shown, the seat 10 may also include a headrest 34 having a socket 35 in the form of a socket 35 attached to the backrest frame 17. Figure 2 The headrest frame 35 is partially visible in the figure. In particular, the socket 35 can be used to receive the headrest rod.

[0047] Hereinafter, the backrest 16 of the vehicle seat 10 is described in more detail.

[0048] If you can Figure 2 As can be seen in particular, the backrest 16 shown essentially comprises a first side interior module 36, a second side interior module 38 and a central interior module 40, such that the first and second side interior modules 36, 38 are each arranged on a respective side of the central interior module 40. Here, each interior module 36, 38, 40 comprises a foam block 42, 44, 46 attached to a respective support 41, 43, 45. As can be seen in particular in Figure 3 As seen in FIG. 4 , the foam block 46 of the center trim module 40 may include holes 47. These holes 47 allow for ventilation of the back of the seat occupant, as described later.

[0049] In the example shown, the central trim module 40 forms the support surface of the bowl of the backrest 16 , ie the central support portion for the seat occupant's back, while the side modules 36 , 38 form lateral sections projecting from the bowl of this same support surface for the seat occupant's back.

[0050] It should be noted here that the interior trim modules 36, 38, 40 are already present before they are attached to the backrest frame 17. Therefore, these interior trim modules 36, 38, 40 are not made by overmolding on the backrest frame 17 and / or structural elements that are already fixed to the backrest frame 17. This does not prevent the foam blocks 42, 44, 46 of each interior trim module 36, 38, 40 from being produced by overmolding possible supports 41, 43, 45 of the respective interior trim module 36, 38, 40. However, this overmolding is performed before the supports 41, 43, 45 in question are attached to the backrest frame 17.

[0051] The backrest 16 further comprises a rear interior panel 48, here in the form of a shell, which defines a large part of the back of the backrest 16. According to the example shown, the backrest 16 further comprises two upper trim elements 50, 52. Here, the two trim elements 50, 52 surround the support socket 35 of the headrest 34.

[0052] It is worth noting that Figure 3 As schematically shown in FIG. 1 , each interior module 36, 38, 40 is attached to the back frame 17 independently of the other two interior modules 36, 38, 40. In other words, each interior module 36, 38, 40 can be attached to the back frame 17 while the other two interior modules 36, 38, 40 are not attached to the back frame 17. In this way, each interior module 36, 38, 40 can be attached to the back frame 17 independently of the other two interior modules 36, 38, 40. However, one interior module 36, 38, 40 can be attached to another interior module 36, 38, 40. However, preferably, the interior modules 36, 38, 40 are independent because there is no direct attachment of one interior module 36, 38, 40 to another interior module 36, 38, 40. However, the foam block 46 of the center interior module 40 can be sandwiched between the foam blocks 42, 44 of the two side interior modules 36, 38.

[0053] The rear interior panel 48A can also be attached directly to the backrest frame 17, preferably independently of the interior modules 36, 38, 40. The rear interior panel 48A can be attached to the backrest frame 17 by any suitable means, in particular by screwing or riveting. According to yet another example shown, the rear interior element 48A is elastically interlocked to the backrest frame 17. Advantageously, the rear interior panel 48A is suitable for being attached to the backrest frame 17 after the interior modules 36, 38, 40 have been attached. In fact, before the rear interior panel 48A is attached, after the interior modules 36, 38, 40 have been attached to the backrest frame 17, this can allow access through the rear of the seat 10 to the different elements of the interior modules 36, 38, 40 that must be functionally connected.

[0054] According to the example shown, two trim elements 50, 52 are attached to the central interior module 40. These trim elements 50, 52 can be attached to the central interior module 40 by any suitable means available to a person skilled in the art. In particular, the trim elements 50, 52 can be elastically mounted to the foam block 46 of the central interior module 40. One trim element 50, 52 can also be attached to another trim element 50, 52. Here too, any attachment means available to a person skilled in the art can also be used, in particular elastic engagement of the trim elements 50, 52.

[0055] like Figure 4 As shown in , the backrest frame 17 basically comprises a first column 171, a second column 172, a first cross member 173 hereinafter referred to as a "low cross member 173" and a second cross member 174 hereinafter referred to as a "high cross member 174". The columns 171, 172 and the cross members 173, 174 form the backrest frame 17 in the form of a shell. For this purpose, the columns 171, 172 and the cross members 173, 174 can be attached together, in particular welded together. Alternatively, the backrest frame 17 is in one piece, the latter is, for example, molded.

[0056] The center trim module 40 (in this case its support 45) and the rear trim panel 48A are attached to the backrest frame 17, as shown in FIG. Figure 5 The subassembly shown is shown.

[0057] The central interior module 40 essentially comprises a support 45, here in the form of a plate. The support 45 is in particular more rigid than a foam block 46 of the central interior module 40. The foam block 46 of the central interior module 40 is attached to the support 45. In particular, the foam block 46 can be overmoulded onto the support 45. Alternatively, the foam block 46 can be glued or elastically mounted onto the support 45, in the latter case the foam block 46 preferably has a plastic insert, thereby forming an elastically engaging projection on the support 45.

[0058] The support 45 extends substantially in the longitudinal direction, being oriented substantially vertically in the backrest 16. The longitudinal ends 451, 452 of the support 45 are bent here. Thus, the upper end 452 of the support 45 can rest on the upper cross member 174 of the backrest frame 17. Similarly, the lower end 451 of the support 45 can receive the lower cross member 173 of the backrest frame 17. The ends 451, 452 have means for attaching here to the lower cross member 173 and the upper cross member 174 of the backrest frame 17, respectively. These attachment means may include:

[0059] - complementary projections, for example for forcing the central trim module 40 to attach to the backrest frame 17; and / or

[0060] - corresponding holes for attachment, for example using screws, bolts or rivets; and / or

[0061] - Complementary resilient engagement projections (or clips) for resilient engagement attachment.

[0062] The latter solution appears to be the most advantageous, since it limits the number of parts and operations required to attach the support 45 to the backrest frame 17. In particular, the elastic engagement tabs 54 are Figure 5 The lower end 451 of the support 45 is visible.

[0063] In addition, the rear interior trim panel 48A can also be attached to the back frame 17 by elastic engagement. To this end, according to the illustrated example, the rear interior trim panel 48A has a first elastic engagement tab 56 adapted to cooperate with the lower cross member 173 of the back frame 17, and a second elastic engagement tab 58 adapted to cooperate with the upper cross member 174 of the back frame 17. Specifically, the rear interior trim panel 48A can be fixed to the back frame 17 by first assembling the elastic assembly tab 56 to the lower cross member 173 of the back frame, and then tilting the top of the rear interior trim panel 48A toward the upper cross member 174 until the elastic engagement tab 58 is elastically engaged in the upper cross member 174.

[0064] If you can Figure 6 As can be seen in the figure, the rear interior panel 48A also has two protruding protrusions 60 near the top end of the rear interior panel 48A. The two protruding protrusions 60 are suitable for abutting on the upper cross member 174 of the back frame 17 to limit or even prevent deformation of the upper end of the rear interior panel 48A.

[0065] The rear interior panel 48A also forms two pairs of support protrusions 62A, 64A, which are suitable for supporting the support 45 of the central interior module 40, preferably in order to ensure the suspension function of the support 45. To this end, each protrusion 62A, 64A cooperates with a corresponding support protrusion 66, 68 formed by the support 45 of the central interior module 40. For example, each support protrusion 66, 68 takes the form of a stud or a stacked sheet, which is easier to mold, especially injection molding, than a single stud. The support protrusions 66, 68 extend on the side 45B of the support 45 facing away from the occupant of the vehicle seat 10. Each support protrusion 66, 68 can have a rounded free end. Here, each support protrusion 66, 68 includes a series of stacked, substantially identical sheets that define a bead-shaped envelope, which is substantially semi-cylindrical here.

[0066] The support projections 62A, 64A of each pair of support projections 62A, 64A are symmetrically arranged relative to a midplane (X, Z) of the rear trim panel 48A.

[0067] exist Figure 5 In the example shown, each support protrusion 62A, 64A contacts at least some of the thin sheets of the support protrusions 66, 68 even when there is no occupant in the vehicle seat 10. Alternatively, however, the support protrusions 66, 68 may be spaced apart from the support protrusions 62A, 64A when there is no occupant in the vehicle seat 10. In this case, the support protrusions 66, 68 may contact the support protrusions 62A, 64A only when the vehicle seat occupant applies pressure to the support member 45 of the center trim module 40.

[0068] according to Figure 7 and Figure 8 In the example of , the support protrusions 62A, 64A are substantially aligned in pairs in the substantially vertically oriented longitudinal direction of the rear interior panel 48A. Therefore, the first support protrusion 62A is substantially arranged in the middle (or arranged upwardly in the middle) along the rear interior panel 48A, for example, between one-third and two-thirds of the length (or height) of the rear interior panel 48A. The second support protrusion 64A is arranged closer to the lower end of the rear interior panel 48A than the first support protrusion 62A. For example, the second support protrusion 64A is substantially one-quarter of the length (or height) of the rear interior panel 48A from the lower end of the rear interior panel 48A, for example, at a height between one-sixth and one-third of the height of the rear interior panel 48A from the lower end of the rear interior panel 48A.

[0069] If you can Figure 7 and Figure 8As seen in FIG. 1 , each support protrusion 62A, 64A may include a base 70 extending from the base surface 49 of the rear interior trim panel 48A and a blade 72 supported by the base 70. The base 70 holds at least a portion of the blade 72 away from the base surface 49 of the rear interior trim panel 48A. The base 70 is preferably more rigid than the blade 72.

[0070] The blades 72 may extend primarily in the transverse direction of the seat back 16. In this case, the blades 72 extend primarily in the transverse direction of the seat back 16. Figure 7 and Figure 8 4. The blade 72 is substantially "S"-shaped in the plane of the backrest frame 17. At a first free end, the blade 72 forms a resiliently engaging projection 74 on the uprights 171, 172 of the backrest frame 17. It should be noted that each resiliently engaging projection 74 comprises a notch, so that the pressure exerted by the seat occupant on the support 45 pushes the stop surface of the notch into abutment against the uprights 171, 172 of the backrest frame 17. Therefore, the presence of the occupant on the vehicle seat 10 tends to lock the attachment of the rear interior panel 48A to the backrest frame 17.

[0071] Then, according to the example shown, the blade 72 has a groove 76 extending along the longitudinal edge of the blade 72 on the section aligned with the base 70. Thus, the groove 76 forms a flange along the section of the blade 72 aligned with the base 70, thereby reinforcing the alignment of the blade 72 with the base 70.

[0072] according to Figure 7 and Figure 8 In the example of FIG. 4 , the blade 72 also has a section 75 extending substantially obliquely towards the base surface 49 of the rear interior panel 48A, from which the base 70 extends. The bearing projections 66, 68 bear on this section 75 of the blade 72, enabling elastic deformation of this section 75 of the blade 72, preferably without deformation of the base 70. The free end 78 of the blade 72 opposite the first free end is curved, with a curvature substantially complementary to the curvature of the free ends of the bearing projections 66, 68, in particular to the curvature of the lamella forming these bearing projections 66, 68, in order to limit the risk or even prevent the free ends of the bearing projections 66, 68 from no longer being in contact with the blade 72 and extending laterally along the blade 72.

[0073] Preferably, each support protrusion 62A, 64A, in particular the blade 72 of each support protrusion 62A, 64A, is more flexible than the supporting protrusion 66, 68 that cooperates therewith. In particular, each support protrusion 62A, 64A, in particular the blade 72 of each support protrusion 62A, 64A, is more flexible than the thin sheet of the supporting protrusion 66, 68 that cooperates therewith. Therefore, when pressure is applied through the associated supporting protrusion 66, 68, the supporting protrusion 62A, 64A, in particular the blade 72 of each support protrusion 62A, 64A, is deformed, preferably elastically, and the associated supporting protrusion 66, 68 is preferably not deformed. Therefore, the supporting protrusion 62A, 64A provides a suspension function for the support 45 of the central interior module 40.

[0074] Fig. 9 A second example of a rear interior trim panel 48B is shown that is identical to the first example of the rear interior trim panel 48A except for the shape and location of the support bosses 62B, 64B.

[0075] according to Fig. 9 In the example shown, the first and second support projections 62B, 64B extend substantially at the same height as the rear interior panel 48B, wherein the first support projection 64A faces each second support projection 64B in a direction substantially transverse to the backrest 48B. Thus, the first and second support projections 62B, 64B extend substantially at half the height of the rear interior panel 48B, for example, at a height between one-third and two-thirds of the height of the rear interior panel 48B.

[0076] If you can Fig.10 As can be seen more clearly in FIG. 4 , the first and second support protrusions 62B, 64B cooperate to support the support protrusion 66 of the support member 45. Fig.10 6B, the blade 72 of the first support protrusion 62B is supported by the blade 72 of the second support protrusion 64B, in particular by its bent free end 78. Here, the bent free end 78 is actually bent to form a substantially right angle. In this way, the blade 72 of the first support protrusion 62B is sandwiched between the support protrusion 66 and the blade 72 of the second elastic engagement protrusion 64B. It should be noted here that the blades 72 of the first and second support protrusions 62B, 64B extend toward each other from their respective bases 70 in a direction substantially transverse to the seat back 46.

[0077] If you can Fig.10 As can be seen in the figure, the blade 72 of the first support protrusion 62B has no elastic engagement protrusion here because the first support protrusion 62B does not extend close to the back frame 17. Here, only the second support protrusion 64B arranged closer to the back frame 17 than the first support protrusion includes such an elastic engagement protrusion 74 at the free end.

[0078] The ends of the blades 72 of the first supporting protrusion 62B are not bent here to increase the contact surface of the supporting protrusion 66 and the blades 72 of the first and second supporting protrusions 62B, 64B.

[0079] Fig.11 A third example of a rear interior panel 48C is shown, wherein the support projections 62C, 64C are substantially aligned in pairs in a substantially vertical direction. Thus, the first projection 62C is disposed substantially at half the height of the rear interior panel 48C, for example between one-third and two-thirds of the height of the rear interior panel 48C. The second projection 64C is disposed closer to the lower end of the rear interior panel 48C than the first projection 62C. For example, the second projection 64C is substantially one-quarter the height of the rear interior panel 48C from the lower end of the rear interior panel 48C, for example at a height between one-sixth and one-third of the height of the rear interior panel 48C from the lower end of the rear interior panel 48C.

[0080] If you can Fig.12 and Fig.13 As can be seen in the figure, according to the example shown, in the absence of an occupant of the vehicle seat 10, only the second support protrusion 64C is in contact with the support protrusion 68 of the support member 45 of the center interior module 40. In contrast, in the absence of an occupant on the vehicle seat 10, there is a gap between the support protrusion 66 on the support member 45 and the first support protrusion 62C. However, alternatively, in the absence of an occupant of the vehicle seat 10, a gap is maintained between the first and second support protrusions 62C, 64C and the support protrusions 66, 68 of the support member 45 of the center interior module 40. According to yet another alternative, the first and second support recesses 62C, 64C are in contact with the support protrusions 66, 68 even in the absence of an occupant of the vehicle seat 10.

[0081] The first and second support bosses 62C, 64C of this third example of the rear interior trim panel 48C are substantially the same as the first and second support bosses 62A, 64A of the first example of the rear interior trim panel 48A.

[0082] However, here, the blade 72 does not have a free end opposite to the elastic engagement protrusion 74. Thus, the end of the blade 72 opposite to the elastic engagement protrusion 74 is integral with the base surface 49 of the rear interior trim panel 48C. Here, the flange 80 connects the end of the blade 72 to the base surface 49 of the rear interior trim panel 48C. Therefore, the blade 72 of the first and second protrusions 62C, 64C of this third example of the rear interior trim panel 48C is significantly more rigid than the blade 72 of the first and second protrusions 62A, 64A of the first example of the rear interior trim panel 48A.

[0083] It should also be noted that according to Fig.12 and Fig.13 In the example of FIG. 4 , the blade 72 is curved between the base 70 and the end thereof that is integral with the base surface 49 of the rear interior panel 48C, and the curvature of the blade 72 is oriented in the direction of the support grooves 66, 68 of the support 45 of the center interior module 40. The blade 72 maintains a main orientation from the base 70 toward the base surface 49 of the rear interior panel 48C.

[0084] Finally, if Fig.12 and Fig.13 As shown, the blade 72 is devoid of ribs 76 along its longitudinal edges.

[0085] Therefore, the deflection of the support member 45 is limited in the central portion by the support provided by the support projections 62A-62C, 64A-64C.

[0086] The support 54 may be equipped with different elements, each associated with one or more comfort or safety functions for an occupant of the seat 10 .

[0087] For example, a fan may be attached to the support 45 on the side 45B of the support 45 opposite to the occupant of the vehicle seat 10 and adapted to blow air through the opening 82 formed in the support 45. Other comfort or safety features may be attached to the support 54, such as one or more exciters or vibrators, one or more inflatable bags, one or more resistive heating wires, or one or more speakers. Preferably, these devices are attached to the side 45A of the support 45 facing the occupant of the vehicle seat 10.

[0088] Furthermore, the support member 45 may include a plurality of protrusions to locally adjust the rigidity of the support member 45. For example, the slot 84 may be formed to locally increase the flexibility of the support member 45. Conversely, a protruding protrusion, particularly a rib, may be formed, particularly on a face 45B of the support member 45 opposing the occupant of the vehicle seat 10, to locally increase the rigidity of the support member 45.

[0089] Other comfort functions may be associated with the support 45. In particular, one or more speakers and / or one or more vibration devices (“exciters”) and / or one or more resistance wires for heating the back of an occupant of the vehicle seat 10 may be attached to the support 45. Preferably, the one or more speakers and / or vibration devices and / or resistance wires are arranged between the support 45 and the foam block 46 of the center interior module 40, or at least partially received in the foam block 46 of the center interior module 40.

[0090] Preferably, components attached to the support 45 that require power and / or control from outside the seat and / or transmission of information to the outside of the seat are all electrically connected to a single connector that provides a connection to the outside of the vehicle seat 10. As a result, assembly of the vehicle seat 10 is greatly simplified, requiring only one electrical connection between the exterior of the vehicle seat 10 and the connector to power, control and communicate with the adapter elements of the center trim module 40. Advantageously, the connector is located on the side 45B of the support 45 opposite the back of the seat occupant.

[0091] In addition, the supports 41, 43 of the first and second side trim modules 36, 38 can each be attached to the corresponding pillars 171, 172 of the backrest frame 17. Specifically, each of the brackets 41, 43 can be attached to the associated pillars 171, 172 by elastic engagement and / or screwing and / or riveting and / or press fitting.

[0092] A foam block 42, 44 associated with the first or second side trim module 36, 38 is attached to each support 41, 43. Specifically, each foam block 42, 44 may be overmolded on the respective support 41, 43. Each foam block 42, 44 may alternatively be glued or elastically fitted to the associated support 41, 43. In the latter case, the foam block 42, 44 may include a plastic insert.

[0093] An inflatable bag of a lateral back support adjustment device (cushion) for a seat occupant may be attached to each support piece 41 , 43 of the side trim modules 36 , 38 .

[0094] Each side trim module 36 , 38 can also be equipped with one or more massage airbags and / or side airbag devices. Each side trim module 36 , 38 can be pre-equipped with a side airbag device before being assembled on the backrest frame 17 .

[0095] Here too, the side trim modules 36 , 38 can include further comfort functions.

[0096] As with the center trim module 40, components of each trim side module 36, 38 requiring power, control, or information transfer are preferably electrically connected to a single connector of each trim side module 36, 38. This simplifies assembly of the backrest 16 of the seat 10.

[0097] The backrest 16 just described is particularly easy to assemble.

[0098] It should also be noted that one trim module 36, 38, 40 can be easily changed without having to change the other trim modules 36, 38, 40 or even dismantle them. For example, it may be worthwhile to replace the central trim module 40 with a central trim module 40 that accommodates one or more new comfort functions compared to the old central trim module 40. In this case, not dismantling the side trim modules 36, 38 means that the safety functions of the vehicle seat 10, namely the two side airbags present in or associated with the side trim modules 36, 38, remain unchanged. This reduces the risk of malfunction of these safety systems after replacing the central trim module 40.

[0099] The invention is not limited to the examples described above. Instead, the invention is capable of many variations accessible to those skilled in the art.

[0100] Thus, in the example shown, each central interior module 36, 38 comprises a support and a foam block attached to the support. Alternatively, the central interior module may have no support, or even comprise only one foam block. When the central interior module does not have a support as described above, it may comprise rigid inserts incorporated into the foam block to facilitate its attachment to the backrest frame. Such inserts may be incorporated by overmolding corresponding foam blocks on these inserts. "Rigid" is understood here to mean that the inserts are particularly more rigid than the foam.

[0101] In addition, each interior trim module 36, 38, 40 may include a cover that covers all or a portion of the corresponding foam block 42, 44, 46. Specifically, the cover can be placed in a mold for overmolding the foam block 42, 44, 46 onto the corresponding support 41, 43, 45. The cover is then adhered to the foam block 42, 44, 46. Alternatively, after the foam block 42, 44, 46 is formed, the cover can be attached to the foam block 42, 44, 46 and / or the support 41, 43, 45. In other words, the cover can be attached to the foam block 42, 44, 46 and / or the support 41, 43, 45. The cover is then attached by any means available to those skilled in the art.

[0102] In yet another variant, a single cover is used to cover the three foam blocks 42, 44, 46 of the interior modules 36, 38, 40. Again, in this case, the cover is attached to the foam blocks 42, 44, 46 and / or the corresponding supports 41, 43, 45 of the interior modules 36, 38, 40, or even to the backrest frame 17 and / or the interior rear panels 48A-48C. Here again, the cover is attached by any means available to those skilled in the art.

[0103] Advantageously, each interior module 36 , 38 , 40 is decorated independently of the other two interior modules, as described above. Alternatively, however, for example, one foam block may be used in common for a plurality of interior modules, in particular for all interior modules 36 , 38 , 40 .

[0104] More generally, in the above example, each interior module 36, 38, 40 is attached to the backrest frame 17 independently of the other interior modules 36, 38, 40. In other words, the attachment means are implemented only between the backrest frame 17 on the one hand and each interior module 36, 38, 40 on the other hand. Alternatively, however, each interior module 36, 38, 40 is suitable for being attached to the seat frame 17 independently of the other interior modules 36, 38, 40, although the attachment means are implemented between at least two interior modules 36, 38, 40, in particular between the central interior module 40 and one or two lateral interior modules 36, 38, but each interior module 36, 38, 40 comprises attachment means for fixing the relative interior module 36, 38, 40 to the backrest frame 17 independently of the other interior modules 36, 38, 40.

[0105] Finally, vehicle seat back upholstery may not be modular.

Claims

1. A vehicle seat back (16), comprising: Backrest frame (17); a backrest trim (36, 38, 40) comprising a trim support (45) attached to the backrest frame (17); and a rear interior trim panel (48A-48C) rigidly attached to the backrest frame (17); The rear interior trim panel (48A-48C) forms at least one support protrusion (62A-62C, 64A-64C) which is intended to bear against the interior trim support member (45) at least when an occupant leans against the backrest (16).

2. The vehicle seat backrest (16) according to claim 1, characterized in that The at least one support protrusion (62A-62C, 64A-64C) bears against the interior trim support member (45).

3. The vehicle seat backrest (16) according to claim 1, characterized in that At least a portion of the at least one supporting protrusion (62A-62C, 64A-64C) is adapted to be elastically deformed under the support of the interior trim support (45) to provide a function of suspending the interior trim support (45).

4. The vehicle seat backrest (16) according to claim 1, characterized in that The rear interior trim panel (48A-48C) includes at least two support protrusions (62A-62C; 64A-64C), and the at least two support protrusions are symmetrically arranged relative to a middle plane of the rear interior trim panel (48A-48C).

5. The vehicle seat backrest (16) according to claim 1, characterized in that The rear interior trim panel (48A-48C) includes at least one first support protrusion (62A; 62C) and at least one second support protrusion (64A; 64C), and the first and second support protrusions (62A; 62C; 64A; 64C) are offset from the rear interior trim panel (48A-48C) in the longitudinal direction.

6. The vehicle seat backrest (16) according to claim 1, characterized in that The rear interior trim panel (48B) includes at least one first support protrusion (62B) and at least one second support protrusion (64B), and each first support protrusion (62B) is arranged opposite to the second support protrusion (64B) in the lateral direction of the rear interior trim panel (48B).

7. The vehicle seat backrest (16) according to claim 1, characterized in that Each support protrusion (62A-62C; 64A-64C) includes a base (70) and a blade (72) extending from the base (70), the base (70) maintaining at least a portion of the blade (72) at a certain distance from the base surface (49) of the rear interior panel (48A-48C).

8. The vehicle seat backrest (16) according to claim 7, characterized in that The blade (72) is elastically deformable at least when supporting the interior trim support (45).

9. The vehicle seat backrest (16) according to claim 7, characterized in that The blade (72) includes a protrusion (74) at a first free end, the protrusion being used to elastically engage the rear interior trim panel (48A-48C) on the uprights (171, 172) of the backrest frame (17).

10. The vehicle seat backrest (16) according to claim 9, characterized in that Each resiliently engaging projection (74) has a notch which is pressed down into abutment against a post (171, 172) of the backrest frame (17) when an occupant of the vehicle seat (10) applies pressure to the interior trim support (45).

11. The vehicle seat backrest (16) according to claim 7, characterized in that The blade (72) is attached at one end to a base surface (49) of the rear interior trim panel (48C).

12. The vehicle seat backrest (16) according to claim 11, characterized in that The blade (72) is bent between the base (70) and the one end, and the curvature of the blade (72) is directed toward the interior trim support (45).

13. The vehicle seat backrest (16) according to claim 1, characterized in that The interior trim support (45) has at least one supporting protrusion (66, 68) on its surface (45B) facing the rear interior trim panel (48A-48C) and is adapted to cooperate with at least one supporting protrusion (62A-62C; 64A-64C).

14. The vehicle seat backrest (16) according to claim 13, characterized in that The interior trim support (45) has at least one supporting protrusion (66, 68) adapted to cooperate with each supporting protrusion (62A-62C; 64A-64C).

15. The vehicle seat backrest (16) according to claim 13, characterized in that Each support protrusion (62A-62C; 64A-64C) includes a base (70) and a blade (72) extending from the base (70), the base (70) maintaining at least a portion of the blade (72) at a certain distance from the base surface (49) of the rear interior panel (48A-48C), and wherein the blade (72) is bent at a second free end in a manner complementary to the free end of the at least one support protrusion (66, 68) of the interior support member (45) intended to cooperate with the blade (72).

16. The vehicle seat back according to claim 4, characterized in that: Each support protrusion (62A-62C; 64A-64C) includes a base (70) and a blade (72) extending from the base (70), the base (70) maintaining at least a portion of the blade (72) at a certain distance from the base surface (49) of the rear interior panel (48A-48C), wherein the interior support (45) has at least one support protrusion (66, 68) on its surface (45B) facing the rear interior panel (48A-48C) suitable for cooperating with at least one support protrusion (62A-62C; 64A-64C), and wherein the blade (72) of the at least one first support protrusion (62B) is intended to be clamped between the blade (72) of the at least one second support protrusion (62B) and the at least one support protrusion (66) of the interior support (45).

17. A motor vehicle seat (10) comprising a seat bottom (14) having a seat frame (15) and a vehicle seat backrest (16) according to any one of the preceding claims, a backrest frame (17) being attached to the seat frame (15).

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