Child seat for mounting on motor vehicle seat

Abstract

The invention relates to a child seat (10) for mounting on a motor vehicle seat, the child seat (10) having at least one side and a side collision avoidance device (100), the side collision avoidance device (100) comprising a side collision avoidance base (140) and a side element (120) movable relative to the side collision avoidance base (140), the side element can be shifted from a non-working position into a functional position, in which the side element protrudes from the side in the lateral direction, and in which the side element does not protrude from the side in the non-working position or protrudes less than in the functional position, a position shifting means is provided, according to the invention, the position conversion means are provided for realizing a conversion from the inoperative position to the functional position, and the position conversion means are configured such that, in a first step, it can be at least substantially determined that the side element protrudes from the side surface in the lateral direction, and, in a second step, the side element is movable, in particular displaceable, preferably, the side element (120) is located at least partially above a section of the side adjacent to the side element (120).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to a child seat for installation on a motor vehicle seat and a method for adjusting a side impact protection device of a child seat. Background Art

[0002] EP 2 275 303 A1 has disclosed a child seat in which the side impact protection device can be switched from a non-operating position to an operating position. In principle, for the same purpose, DE 10 2015 214 910 also discloses a side element that can be switched from a non-operating position to a functional position, wherein in the functional position, the side element, which is called a side protection block, is locked by means of a button called a protection part, wherein the button should be pressed so that the side element can be folded or the locking can be cancelled in the unfolded state. In the folded position of the protection part, the button sinks into the interior of the protection part.

[0003] From a safety technology point of view, the prior art solutions are worth improving, especially when a child seat is used, the risk that the side impact device will not be correctly in the functional position is considered to be high. Summary of the invention

[0004] The object of the present invention is to provide a side impact protection for a child seat, which child seat has an adjustable side impact protection in a simple, reliable and cost-effective manner. In particular, the object of the present invention is to provide a side impact protection that is easy to operate. In addition, the object of the present invention is to provide a corresponding method.

[0005] This object is achieved in particular by the features of claim 1 .

[0006] The object is achieved in particular by a child seat for installation on a motor vehicle seat, wherein the child seat has at least one side and a side impact protection device (the side impact protection device can be at least partially formed by the side or can be formed completely in addition to the side), the side impact protection device comprising: a side impact protection base, and a side element that is movable (in particular rotatable and / or slidable) relative to the side impact protection base, the side element being able to be switched between a non-operating position (resting state) (in particular within a preset width of the child seat) and a functional position (in particular outside the preset width) (and vice versa), wherein the side element protrudes beyond the side in the functional position in the lateral direction, wherein the side element does not protrude beyond the side in the non-operating position or protrudes less than the side in the functional position, wherein a (structure) is provided. The invention relates to a position conversion device for manual and / or automatic operation, for realizing a conversion from a non-operating position to a functional position, and the position conversion device is preferably configured so that in a first step it can be at least substantially determined that it protrudes laterally beyond the side surface, and in a second step the side element or at least one movable section of the side element is movable, in particular slidable (translationally), preferably so that the side element is at least partially (optionally directly, in particular in contact) located above (on) a section of the side surface adjacent to the side element, the weight of the movable section is preferably at least 15% by weight (further preferably at least 25% by weight or at least 50% by weight or at least 90% by weight, optionally 100% by weight) of the total weight of the side element and / or the movable section is at least partially visible (from external observation) in the non-operating position (wherein partially preferably means that at least 0.5 cm of the surface 2 , preferably at least 1.0 cm 2 , optionally at least 2.5 cm 2 Or at least 5.0cm 2 is visible).

[0007] Preferably, the length of the mobile section corresponds to at least 30%, preferably at least 50%, optionally at least 70% or at least 90%, optionally at least 100% of the length of the entire side element. Alternatively or additionally, the width of the mobile section can correspond to at least 30%, preferably at least 50%, optionally at least 70% or at least 90%, optionally at least 100% of the width of the entire side element. Alternatively or additionally, the height of the mobile section can correspond to at least 30%, preferably at least 50%, optionally at least 70% or at least 90%, optionally at least 100% of the height of the entire side element. Alternatively or additionally, the (maximum) diameter of the mobile section (understood as the spacing of the pair of points of the mobile section or the element / structure referred to accordingly, which has the maximum spacing from each other) can correspond to at least 30%, preferably at least 50%, optionally at least 70% or at least 90%, optionally at least 100% of the (maximum) diameter of the entire side element.

[0008] The idea of ​​the invention is to divide the kinematic process of the side element during the transition from the inoperative position to the functional position into two steps. In particular, with regard to the extension or projection of the side element in the lateral direction (i.e., in particular outwards or in the horizontal direction perpendicular to the direction of sight of the child during use or in the horizontal direction perpendicular to the direction of travel when the child seat is correctly arranged), the side element is moved at least substantially into its end position in a first step. Then, in a second step, it is moved in particular such that the side element (partially) is located above the side, in particular directly above the side.

[0009] The expression "above" is intended to indicate in particular that the projection of the side element overlaps with the section of the side surface adjacent to the side element (when projected onto the adjacent section). The direction of the projection preferably corresponds to the surface normal on the adjacent section. The overlapping area preferably has a width of at least 0.5 cm. 2 , preferably at least 1 cm 2 , optionally at least 2.5 cm 2 and / or up to 40cm 2 or up to 25cm 2 or up to 10cm 2 , optionally up to 5cm 2 area.

[0010] Position conversion devices (or position conversion implementation devices) should be understood in particular as those structures of the child seat that help to achieve position conversion. For example, the position conversion device may include at least one sliding surface and / or at least one stop and / or at least one bearing, such as a sliding bearing. The position conversion device may also include at least one drive device, such as at least one spring. The position conversion device can be configured to achieve conversion by manual and / or automatic operation.

[0011] A side surface is understood in particular to be a surface which is oriented outwards (at least substantially away from the child or the receiving space for the child).

[0012] The distance between the adjacent sections of the side surface and the side element in the functional position (in a direction parallel to the surface normal on the adjacent sections of the side surface) can be at most 1 cm, preferably at most 0.5 cm, more preferably at most 2 mm, and even more preferably at most 1 mm. Optionally, this distance can be equal to zero, or alternatively the side element and the adjacent section of the side surface can be in contact at least at points in the functional position.

[0013] According to the invention, the side element itself (or at least its important components, for example in contrast to the movement of a relatively small and therefore less sturdy button of DE 10 2015 214 910 A1) is advantageously moved in order to lock the side element in a functional position in the event of a side impact (movement of the side element in the direction of the child is prevented by adjacent sections of the side).

[0014] Preferably, the side element or its moving section is movable during the second step at least substantially transversely to the lateral direction and / or (at least partially) at least substantially along the adjacent (outwardly directed) side. Substantially transverse movement is particularly understood to mean that the direction of movement forms an angle of 90°±30°, preferably 90°±10°, more preferably 90°±5° with respect to the lateral direction (as defined above). Substantially movement along the adjacent side is particularly understood to mean a movement having a direction at least substantially parallel to the adjacent side (wherein in particular the direction deviation is at most 30°, preferably at most 10°, more preferably at most 5°). When the movement is a rotational movement, in particular the direction of movement of at least one point (optionally all points) of the side element surface opposite the adjacent section of the side should be taken into account. In the case of pure rotation, such a point will move along a circular trajectory. In general, the movement in the second step can be carried out (purely) translationally and / or (purely) rotationally. In this regard, the above respective conditions should apply to at least 30%, optionally at least 80% or at least 95% of the total length of the (optionally curved or straight) movement path.

[0015] The non-operating position (resting state) is preferably a stowed position in which the side element offers no or only less protection (compared to the functional position) in the event of a side impact. In the functional position (functional state or use position), the side impact protection function of the side element is significantly increased (compared to the resting state). The non-operating position is also referred to below as the first position and the functional position as the second position. In particular, the early connection of the child seat (and the child accommodated in the child seat) to the accident dynamic device can also be regarded as a protective measure in the event of a side impact.

[0016] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a child seat is provided, which has at least one side and a side impact protection device, wherein the side impact protection device comprises: a (side impact protection) base, and a side element movable relative to the base, wherein the side element can be (reversibly) converted between a first position and a second position relative to the base, wherein the side element protrudes beyond the side in a lateral direction in the second position, wherein the side element does not protrude beyond the side in the first position or protrudes less than the side in the second position, wherein the conversion between the first position and the second position comprises a first step and a second step, wherein in the first step the lateral protrusion is adjusted, and in the second step the side element (or the above-mentioned movable section thereof) is moved at least substantially transversely to the lateral direction and / or at least substantially along the side.

[0017] The child seat may have a seat area and a backrest. In addition, it advantageously has a headrest. According to an embodiment of the invention, the child seat may also include a seat base. Alternatively or additionally, other equipment may be provided, such as a restraint device (e.g. a safety belt and / or a restraint body) for restraining a child.

[0018] The seat area preferably forms a sitting surface for supporting the buttocks of the child (optionally also supporting parts of the thighs) and can have a first side. Alternatively or additionally, the seat area can include armrests, which extend at least substantially above the sitting surface, wherein a lap belt guide for guiding a vehicle safety belt can be arranged between the armrests and the sitting surface.

[0019] The child seat can include fasteners for fastening to a vehicle seat, in particular Isofix connectors and / or LATCH connectors and / or similar devices. The fasteners can be arranged at the rear end and / or the lower end of the seat area. In embodiments with a seat base, the fasteners can alternatively or additionally be arranged at the rear end and / or the lower end of the seat base.

[0020] The backrest can be integrally formed with the seat area and rigidly connected to the seat area, or the backrest can be movable relative to the seat area, in particular adjustable in terms of inclination. In addition, the backrest forms a backrest contact surface for resting against or supporting the back of a child, and preferably comprises a second side surface (preferably at least one of these second sides is combined with the side impact protection device explained above and / or below). The backrest can have side pads, which are integrally formed with the section of the backrest that forms the backrest contact surface and can be rigidly connected to this section, or are movable relative to the backrest contact surface, in particular adjustable in width. The second side surface can in particular be formed completely or partially by a section of the side pad.

[0021] The optional headrest can be formed integrally with the backrest and rigidly connected to the backrest, or can be movable relative to the backrest, in particular the inclination and / or distance of the headrest relative to the seat area can be adjusted. In addition, the headrest can form a head contact surface for supporting the child's head and form a third side. It can have side wings, which can be integrally formed with the section of the headrest that forms the head contact surface and rigidly connected to this section, or the side wings can be movable relative to the head contact surface, in particular the width of which can be adjusted. The third side can in particular be formed completely or partially by sections of the side wings. The shoulder belt guide can be arranged on the headrest, in particular on the side wings, and preferably on its lower end.

[0022] In embodiments having a seat base, the seat base may form the fourth side.

[0023] The seating surface and the backrest surface and possibly the headrest surface and the inner sides of the armrests and / or the side bolsters and / or the side wings define a receiving area (receiving space) for the child.

[0024] Each of the first to fourth side surfaces can (optionally) be combined with a side impact protection device explained above and / or below or form a side surface according to claim 1 .

[0025] In the context of the present application, the term child seat is to be understood as covering all types of child seats, such as infant carriers or so-called booster seats (and the like). Furthermore, directional expressions (such as front, rear, right, left, top, bottom, inside, outside, side, etc.) are to be understood as reflecting the perspective of a child normally seated in a child seat and looking forward. Whenever a child and his or her body parts are concerned, the same applies to the mannequins, in particular the Q series mannequins from Humanetics (in the version current or in force at the date of this application or priority). In particular, a suitable mannequin can be selected from these mannequins depending on the seat size, such as Q0, Q1, Q1.5, Q3, Q6 and / or Q10, where the number after Q corresponds to the approximate age of a child of similar size and weight.

[0026] The child seat comprises in particular a side impact protection device, which will be described in detail below. The side impact protection device comprises in particular a side impact protection base and a side element which is movable relative to the side impact protection base, wherein it is preferably provided that the side element is reversibly switchable between a first position (stowed position and / or retracted position) and a second position (use position and / or extended position). In the second position, the side element protrudes beyond the side of the child seat (or an adjacent part thereof), whereas in the first position, the side element does not protrude beyond the side or protrudes less than in the second position. The side is preferably the second side, but depending on the embodiment, it may also refer to the first, third and / or fourth side.

[0027] Preferably, the side element in its second position is that part of the child seat which protrudes furthest towards the side.

[0028] The switching of the side elements between the first position and the second position preferably comprises a first step in which the lateral projection is (at least substantially) adjusted and a second step in which the side elements are (at least substantially) moved transversely to the lateral direction and / or along the side.

[0029] The transition from the first position to the second position preferably first comprises the first step and then the second step. The transition from the second position to the first position preferably first comprises the second step and then the first step.

[0030] Preferably, the side impact protector is mounted, in particular fastened, laterally on the child seat or on a side of the child seat (this should in particular not be excluded that the side impact protector is also at least partially located further inwards than adjacent sections of the side).

[0031] It can be provided that the side impact base or the base outer surface is designed completely or partially in one piece with the side surface, in particular is formed in one piece. The side surfaces and the side impact base can be connected to each other.

[0032] The side impact base may include a frame that may form an opening. The frame may be a portion of the side that frames the opening (its optional function is described in further detail below). The side impact base may also include a portion that completely or partially closes the opening inwardly. The opening can, for example, be completely or partially configured as a blind hole or a through hole in the side and / or in the base. According to an embodiment of the present invention, the side impact base may, for example, include a portion that spans the opening like a bridge or a web and / or a portion that protrudes into the opening like a platform. The side impact base is preferably configured to cooperate with the side elements to provide one or more functions of the side impact protection device.

[0033] The side element can have an outer surface of the side element, which is visible in the first position (i.e. not covered by other parts of the child seat) and which can, for example, completely or partially close the opening of the side impact base in the first position. The outer surface of the side element can be oriented at least substantially away from the child in the first position and / or in the second position. Furthermore, the side element can have an inner surface, which is not (substantially) visible in the first position, for example because it is covered by other parts of the child seat. The inner surface can be at least partially configured as an edge surface, and it can be provided that the inner surface is (preferably only partially) visible in the second position. The inner surface can be oriented at least substantially away from the child in the first position and / or in the second position (optionally without taking into account the edge surface).

[0034] The side element may be composed of a plurality of sub-elements. For example, the side element may include an outer portion forming an outer surface. The side element may also include an inner portion capable of cooperating with the base, which will be further described below.

[0035] Preferably, the side elements can (in particular only) rotate around an axis, in particular fixed or movable, during the first step. Alternatively or additionally, the side elements (or their movable sections) can (in particular only) slide or translate during the second step. Alternative or additional modes of movement are explained in more detail below.

[0036] The side elements are preferably configured as flip elements (flaps) which can be flipped around a (fixed or movable) axis, in particular for implementing a first step of switching between a first position and a second position. Here, a rotation can also be superimposed by a translation (and vice versa).

[0037] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the first step can be implemented by a (pure) translation. Alternatively or additionally, the second step can be implemented by a (pure) rotation.

[0038] Both steps can be carried out by a (pure) translation, wherein the respective sliding axes or sliding directions can be different (for example by at least 10° or at least 45° or at least 80°).

[0039] Both steps can be carried out by a (pure) rotation, wherein the respective axes of rotation can be different (for example by at least 10° or at least 45° or at least 80°).

[0040] The side element may include a proximal portion close to the axis, and the side element may include a distal portion, which is further away from the axis than the proximal portion and is further outward (farther away from the receiving area) than the axis in the second position. The axis can be configured as a solid, for example as an independent component. However, the axis can also be an imaginary axis, for example a film hinge.

[0041] The second step is preferably implemented as a translation of the side element. Here, the side element can slide on the side impact base and / or on the side of the child seat. Alternatively, the second step can be implemented as a rotation. Preferably, one of the first and second steps comprises a rotation and the other of the first and second steps comprises a translation.

[0042] As already explained, in a particularly preferred variant, the first step (especially only) comprises folding / turning, and the second step (especially only) comprises translation. In another preferred embodiment, the first step (especially only) comprises translation, and the second step (especially only) comprises rotation.

[0043] For forming the tilting mechanism, as described above, an axis can be provided, which can be formed completely or partially as a physical axis. The side element can include a side element axis receptacle in which the axis can be supported. The side impact base can (especially in the rear part) include a base axis receptacle in which the axis can be supported. The side element axis receptacle and / or the base axis receptacle can be designed to allow a translation of the side element relative to the side impact base in at least one, preferably exactly one, folded position of the side element relative to the side impact base. For this purpose, the side element axis receptacle and / or the base axis receptacle can have at least one, preferably at least two, elongated holes in which the axis can slide. The orientation of the elongated holes can be selected so that the axis can slide in the (corresponding) elongated hole only when the side element is in a position between one, especially an intermediate position (when carrying out the first step from the first position or when carrying out the second step from the second position) and the second position.

[0044] The second step may include a translational movement of the axis (shaft) in one of the side element-axis receptacle and the base-axis receptacle. The second step may also include a movement, in particular a translational movement, of the entire side element (or at least a considerable part thereof, for example at least 15% by weight or at least 50% by weight or at least 90% by weight thereof) relative to the side impact protection base. The movement of the proximal part may be guided by the axis and the axis receptacle. The distal end may slide on the side impact protection base, in particular on the front part of the side element. For this purpose, the side impact protection base may have a sliding section, which may guide the side element (at least partially between the intermediate position and the second position). The side impact protection base may have a base holding section, which may be arranged in particular in the vicinity of and / or on the front part of the sliding section of the side impact protection base. The side element may have a side element holding section, in particular at the distal end, wherein the side element holding section may be supported on the base holding section in the second position.

[0045] Preferably, the first step and / or the second step (optionally after cancelling the corresponding locking) is completed automatically (or autonomously), preferably supported by at least one or exactly one spring (or other drive device), or by at least two or exactly two springs, further preferably by at least one first spring for supporting the second step and / or at least one second spring for supporting the first step.

[0046] The side impact protection device can include a first spring, which drives the side element (especially from an intermediate position, in which it has been adjusted at least substantially to protrude from the side according to the first step) completely into the second position. The first spring can be, for example, a helical spring (for example a compression spring or a tension spring), a torsion spring, a leaf spring or other suitable elastic element. The first spring can have two ends, with which the first spring can be supported on the side element on the one hand and on another element of the child seat, especially on the side impact protection base, on the other hand. For this purpose, a first side element spring fastener can be provided on the side element, and a first base spring fastener can be provided on the side impact protection base. The first side element spring fastener and / or the first base spring fastener can be designed as a (especially at least approximately cylindrical) protrusion, onto which the first spring can be inserted. However, depending on the type of spring used, other embodiments are also possible, such as, for example, a recessed portion, especially a groove-shaped recessed portion, into which the corresponding end of the spring can be inserted. The embodiments described further below in conjunction with the second spring can also be used.

[0047] The purpose of the first side element spring fastener or the first base spring fastener is, in particular, to enable a stable support of the first spring on the respective element in order to enable a reliable and error-free implementation of the second step.

[0048] The side impact protection device may include a second spring, which preferably drives the side element to be converted into an intermediate position, in which the side element has been adjusted at least substantially to protrude from the side according to the first step. Alternatively, but not preferably, the second spring can be configured to completely convert the side element (especially from the intermediate position, in which the side element has been adjusted at least substantially to protrude from the side according to the first step) into the first position. The second spring can be, for example, a helical spring (such as a compression spring or a tension spring), a torsion spring, a leaf spring or other suitable elastic element. The second spring can have two ends, with which the second spring can be supported on the side element on the one hand and on another element of the child seat, especially on the base, on the other hand. For this purpose, a second base spring fastener can be provided on the side element, and a second base spring fastener can be provided on the side impact protection base. The second side element spring fastener and / or the second base spring fastener can be configured to be able to engage or surround the second spring (for example, the hook-shaped end of the second spring is hung in a hole or the engagement projection is surrounded by the ring-shaped end). However, other embodiments are also possible depending on the type of spring used, especially those described in conjunction with the first spring.

[0049] The purpose of the second side element spring fastener or the second base spring fastener is, in particular, to enable a stable support of the second spring on the respective element in order to enable a reliable and error-free implementation of the first step.

[0050] The side impact protection device is preferably designed such that the first and second springs transfer the side element completely from the first position into the second position. The second spring can drive the side element to perform a first step starting from the first position to adjust the side element to protrude further from the outer surface than in the first position. The first spring can drive the side element to perform a second step to prevent a laterally acting, inwardly directed force from overcoming the action of the second spring and transferring to the first position.

[0051] The side impact protection device can be designed in such a way that the changeover from the first position to the second position (after the first start of the changeover, which will be explained in detail below) is completely spring-driven, in particular by means of the first and second springs. During the second step, the changeover from the second position to the first position is preferably achieved against the first spring force. During the first step, the changeover from the second position to the first position can be achieved against the second spring force.

[0052] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the first spring and the second spring can be formed by a single combined spring. It can also be provided that only the second spring is provided. Each first spring, each second spring and each combined spring can include (exactly) one or more spring elements. However, preferably, there should be (exactly) one first spring and (exactly) one second spring, which are each realized by exactly one spring element.

[0053] Preferably, the functional position is lockable (with respect to switching into the non-operating position, in particular with respect to folding). Alternatively or additionally, the non-operating position is lockable (with respect to switching into the functional position, in particular with respect to unfolding). Locking is to be understood in particular as meaning that the side element cannot be moved toward the respective other position of the non-operating position and the functional position, in particular in any direction, before the corresponding locking mechanism is released (at least without overcoming a force threshold of, for example, at least 0.5 N or at least 1 N or at least 10 N or at least 100 N).

[0054] The side element may have a side element stop and the side impact protection base may have a base stop. The side element stop and the base stop may be configured to cooperate to limit the outward movement of the side element. In particular, after the first step, during the transition from the first position to the second position, and / or in the second position, the side element may abut against the base stop by the side element stop. In the first position, the side element stop may be spaced apart from the base stop.

[0055] In the first position, further inward movement of the side elements, in particular further folding of the side elements, can be at least substantially (optionally except for a still existing slight movability, see below) prevented by the side elements at least partially abutting against the side impact base.

[0056] The side impact protection device may further comprise a retaining device to retain the side element in the first position. This is particularly meaningful when (as described above) a second spring is provided, which is prestressed in the first position of the side element to drive the side element to protrude (further) beyond the side in the lateral direction. The retaining device may comprise a side element retaining device and a base retaining device. Preferably, one of the side element retaining device and the base retaining device engages with the other of the side element retaining device and the base retaining device to retain the side element in the first position. In order to initiate the transition of the side element from the first position into the second position, the engagement may be released. According to an embodiment of the invention, one of the side element retaining device and the base retaining device may therefore comprise a latch, and the other of the side element retaining device and the base retaining device may comprise a latch receiving portion.

[0057] It can be provided that the retaining device is designed in such a way that the switching of the side elements from the first position into the second position is initiated by pressing inwards (oriented toward the receiving space or the child). For this purpose, it can be provided that the side elements can be moved slightly further inwards beyond the first position in order to release the side elements from the first position and / or release the engagement of the retaining device.

[0058] In particular, the side element holding device may include a projection, which in particular includes a head. The base holding device may include a guide section, which is provided by the structure of the side impact protection base (for example, by the structure of the bridge), or the guide section may be arranged as a separate component in the holding device receptacle. The movable section may be movably arranged in the guide section, and the movable section may in particular include at least one or exactly one or at least two or exactly two arms, which are preferably elastically configured. The at least two or exactly two arms may be configured to define an opening in the absence of external forces, into which the side element holding device, in particular the head, can be introduced. The movable section may occupy an extended position relative to the guide section, in which no force acts on the arms, and a retracted position relative to the guide section, in which the guide section (overcoming the spring force) compresses the arms so as to surround the side element holding device, in particular the head, in a holding manner. For switching between the extended position and the retracted position, a known mechanism (for example in a ballpoint pen) may be used.

[0059] Preferably, the side element and the side impact protection base have a pair of complementary engagement structures, in particular at least one protrusion-recess pairing, which hinders the transition from the functional position to the non-working position, preferably so that the obstruction can be overcome by a force less than or equal to 50 N, further preferably less than or equal to 10 N and / or greater than or equal to 0.1 N, preferably greater than or equal to 0.5 N, optionally greater than or equal to 1 N.

[0060] The side impact protection base may comprise a base retaining engagement portion (e.g. a depression), in particular on the base retaining section. The side element may have a side element retaining engagement portion (e.g. a protrusion), in particular on the side element retaining section. One of the base retaining engagement portion and the side element retaining engagement portion may engage into the other of the base retaining engagement portion and the side element retaining engagement portion in the second position of the side element to hinder movement of the side element (away from the second position).

[0061] It can be provided that the switching of the side elements from the second position into the first position is initiated by pressing or pushing on the side elements (and / or rotating the side elements), in particular in the direction opposite to the direction in which the first spring drives the side elements. It can be provided that the side elements are moved (slightly) away from the side in this case, in order to release the base holding engagement and the side element holding engagement from each other. It can also be provided that the switching of the side elements from the second position into the first position is accomplished by pressing the side elements inwards, in particular pressing the distal end sections of the side elements.

[0062] Preferably, the side elements are foldable backwards during the first step (in particular, when viewed from above, the side elements mounted on the right side of the child seat are folded clockwise, while the side elements mounted on the left side of the child seat are folded counterclockwise). Alternatively or additionally, the side elements or their movable sections are movable forwards during the second step.

[0063] Preferably, the side impact protection device is designed and mounted on the child seat in such a way that, when the side element is transferred from the first position into the second position, the movement of the side element in the second step does not take place backwards (but preferably forwards). In the case of a backward movement, there is a risk in particular that the side element in the second step strikes the backrest of the vehicle and / or an object arranged near the backrest and may not be able to reach the second position. In addition, the side element may be difficult to access for release from the second position because of obstructions by the backrest of the vehicle and / or objects.

[0064] The side impact protection device is preferably partially, optionally completely, arranged in the backrest part of the child seat, in particular behind the backrest contact surface and / or above the seat part of the child seat (optionally above the level of the highest point of the seat part) and / or on the outer side of the seat shell of the child seat.

[0065] Preferably, the side element is made of at least substantially rigid material. Here, this material can be particularly hard plastic, as PE and / or PP or the like.

[0066] The above object is further achieved by a method for adjusting a side impact protection device of a child seat of the above type, the child seat having at least one side and a side impact protection device, wherein the side impact protection device comprises:

[0067] - Side impact mounts, and

[0068] - a side element which is movable (in particular rotatable and / or slidable) relative to the side impact base, said side element being transferable between an inoperative position (in particular within a predetermined width of the child seat) and a functional position (in particular outside said predetermined width) (and vice versa),

[0069] The side element protrudes further from the side in the functional position than in the inoperative position, wherein the lateral protrusion from the side is preferably at least substantially determined in a first step, and in a second step at least one section of the side element (the weight of which is preferably at least 15% by weight, further preferably at least 25% or at least 50% or at least 90%, optionally 100% of the total weight of the side element and / or which is at least partially visible from the outside in the inoperative position) is moved, in particular slid, preferably so that the side element is at least partially located above (preferably above) a section of the side adjacent to the side element. For further method features, see the above description of the child seat, wherein the functional features can be implemented as corresponding method steps.

[0070] Further embodiments result from the dependent claims.

[0071] The invention is described below with reference to an exemplary embodiment which is explained in more detail with reference to the drawing. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0072] In the figure:

[0073] Figure 1 A schematic oblique view showing a child seat according to the present invention;

[0074] Figure 2 Show Figure 1 A partial view of the child seat shown;

[0075] Figure 3 Show according to Figure 2 A partial view of a different configuration of a child seat;

[0076] Figure 4Show according to Figures 1 to 3 An exploded view of the components of the child seat;

[0077] Figure 5 Show according to Figures 1 to 4 A partial cross-sectional view of a child seat;

[0078] Figure 6 Show according to Figure 5 A partial view of a different configuration;

[0079] Figure 7 Show according to Figure 5 and 6 A child seat of another structure;

[0080] Figure 8 Showing the components of the side impact protection device;

[0081] Fig. 9 Showing the components of the side impact protection device;

[0082] Fig.10 A partial schematic cross-sectional view (partially illustrated) showing an alternative embodiment;

[0083] Fig.11 Show according to Fig.10 A partial top view of

[0084] Fig.12 Show according to Fig.10 A different structure of parts;

[0085] Fig.13 Shown with Fig.11 Similar basis Fig.12 A view of the structure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0086] In the following description, the same reference numerals are used to denote the same components and components having the same function.

[0087] Figure 1 A child seat 10 according to the invention is shown. The child seat 10 optionally comprises a headrest 40 with a head-resting surface 41, a seat area 20 with a sitting surface 21, and a backrest 30 with a back-resting surface 31. The seat area 20 may comprise fasteners 22 for fixing the child seat 10 to a vehicle seat. The seat area 20 may comprise a first side 24 on its outer side. Furthermore, side bolsters 32 are formed on the backrest 30, which have a second side 33 on the outer side of the child seat 10 (the side facing away from the child in the child seat). Side impact protection devices 100 are respectively formed on (or at) the second side 33 of the side bolsters 32. Side wings 42 may be formed on the headrest 40, which have a third side 43 on the outer side of the child seat 10.

[0088] Figure 2 1 shows a side view of a portion of a second side 33 of a side bolster 32 of a child seat 10 according to the invention. The side bolster 32 comprises a side impact protection device 100, which comprises in particular a side element 120 and a side element outer surface 121. Figure 1 In particular Figure 2 , the side impact device 100 can be embedded in the second side 33 of the side bolster 32 such that the side element outer surface 121 transitions at least substantially flush into an adjacent section of the second side 33 of the side bolster 32. The side impact device 100 is here in a first position.

[0089] Figure 3 A side view of a portion of the second side 33 of the side bolster 32 of the child seat 10 according to the invention is shown. The side impact protection 100 with the side element 120 and the side element outer surface 121 is in the second position in this figure. The side impact protection 100 is no longer embedded in the second side 33 of the side bolster 32, but at least partially protrudes from it. It can now be seen that, in contrast to the first position, the edge surface 122 protrudes from the second side 33, or in other words, protrudes or projects from the second side 33. In this position, the side element outer surface 121 does not transition flush into the adjacent section of the second side 33 of the side bolster 32.

[0090] Figure 4 An exploded view of a side impact protection device 100 according to the present invention is shown. Figure 5 A sectional view is shown. The side impact device 100 comprises a side element 120 which can be arranged so as to be pivotable relative to a side impact base 140 via an axis / shaft 110. The side impact base 140 is a component of the side impact device 100 and in particular serves as a fixed (e.g. fixedly supported or mounted) counterpart to the movable side element 120. The side impact base 140 can be mounted at least partially within the second side surface 33. The side impact base 140 can have an opening 142 between its rear part 149 and its front part 150, into which the side element 120 can be at least partially inserted.

[0091] The side element 120 preferably has a side element axis receiving portion 126 through which the axis 110 can be guided. The side impact protection device further comprises a second spring 112, which forces the side element 120 into the protruding position, i.e., presses it to the left (away from the child), and a first spring 111, which pushes the side element 120 forward (away from the child) along the second side 33 into the second position. In addition, a base retaining device 144 mounted to the side impact protection base 140 can be provided, which can lock the side element 110 in the first position and which can be unlocked to initiate the transition to the second position.

[0092] The base holder 144 may include or consist of a guide section 145a (in which the movable section 145b is guided) and an arm 145c. In addition, an optional frame 153 is provided (which may be a component of the side impact protection base 140), which surrounds the side element 120 in the first position and can serve as a contact surface for the side element 120 in the second position. A side element stop 123 is provided on the side element 120, which limits the side element 120 in the second position and prevents further expansion caused by the second spring 112.

[0093] Figure 5 The side impact protection device 100 is shown in a sectional view in a first position, which is embedded in the second side 33 of the side bolster 32. The axis 110 is fixedly connected to the side impact protection base 140 at the base axis receptacle 146 and passes through the (guide-shaped, in particular groove-shaped) side element axis receptacle 126 at the proximal end 129 of the side element 110 and supports the side element 120 so that it can be pivoted relative to the base. The side element axis receptacle 126 is in particular designed as a guide, in particular groove-shaped, and / or as an elongated hole. In the first position, the axis 110 is located at the distal end of the side element axis receptacle 126, which is closer to the distal end 130 of the side element 120.

[0094] The second spring 112 can be connected to the side impact protection base 140 at one end by a second base spring fastener 148 and to the side element 120 at the other end by a second side element spring fastener 128. The second spring 112 can be compressed in the first position and thereby pressed from the inside toward the side element 120. The head 125 of the side element 120 can engage into the arm 145c of the base retaining device 144, thereby locking the side element 120 and preventing it from unfolding due to the force of the second spring 112, so that it is stuck in the embedded first position.

[0095] The edge surface 122 of the side element 120 abuts against the sliding section 156 of the side impact base 140 at least at the distal end portion 130 and is at least partially guided thereby (when transitioning into the second position).

[0096] The first spring 111 may be connected at one end to the side impact protection base 140 via a first base spring fastener 147 and at the other end to the side element 120 via a first side element spring fastener 147. The first spring 111 may be stretched in a first position and thus pull at the proximal end of the side element 120 (at the first side element spring fastener 147) and thus press the distal portion of the edge surface 122 against the sliding section 156.

[0097] By applying a force (towards the child) to the proximal end portion 129 of the side element 120 , the movable section 145 b of the base holding section 144 may be pushed along the guide section 145 a (towards the child) and thus bring the arm 145 c into the open position.

[0098] Figure 6 A cross-sectional view of the side impact device 100 is shown in a position between the first and second positions (in particular an unstable intermediate position), after switching by the second spring 112 (to the left) and before switching by the first spring 111 (forward). In this position, the axis 110 is still located at the distal end of the side element-axis receptacle 126. The arm 145c of the base retaining device 144 is open, which makes the head 125 of the side element 120 no longer held by the arm 145c and thus releases the lock that prevents the side element 120 from being deployed. By the force of the second spring 112, the side element 120 is pressed into the (open, deployed) protruding position. The side element stop 123 abuts against the base stop 143, thereby limiting the deployment of the side element 120 by the second spring 112. The cooperation between the side element stop 123 and the base stop 143 prevents further movement of the side element 120 to the left (away from the child). The distal edge surface 122 of the side element 120 is no longer guided by the sliding section 156 and protrudes from the sliding section 156, and is particularly located outside the sliding section 156. The forward movement of the side element 120 along the second side is no longer restricted in this position, thereby releasing the first spring 111.

[0099] Figure 7The side impact protection device 100 is shown in a sectional view in the second position, after switching by the second spring 112 (to the left) and after switching by the first spring 111 (forward). In this position, the axis 110 is located at the proximal end of the side element axis receptacle 126, which is closer to the proximal end portion 130 of the side element 120. The force of the second spring 112 continues to press the side element 120 into the (open, unfolded) protruding position. The side element stop 123 further (slightly pushed forward) abuts against the base stop 143, thereby further preventing the side element 120 from being further unfolded by the second spring 112. By releasing the first spring 111, the side element 120 is pushed forward (into the second position) at the first side element spring fastener 147.

[0100] The side element 120 is prevented from further forward movement by the abutment of the axis 110 against the proximal end of the side element axis receptacle 126. The distal end portion of the edge surface 122 is now located in front of the sliding section 156 in the second position and thus prevents the side element 120 from being undesirably moved back from the left side (towards the child) into the first embedded position due to possible force effects (e.g. in a crash scenario). In this position, the side element retaining engagement 132 engages in the base retaining section 151 and the base retaining engagement 152 engages in the side element retaining section 131, so that the side element 120 is locked against return (rearward) sliding in the event of a possible force effect from the front.

[0101] Figure 8 A rear view of the side element 120 is shown. Fig.10 A frame 153 is shown.

[0102] exist Figures 10 to 13 An alternative embodiment is partially shown in FIG. The side element is slid / displaced (translationally) in a first step and rotated in a second step. For this purpose, the side element can have at least one recess 120a, such as a groove, optionally a circumferential groove.

[0103] It should be noted that all components described above (especially the details shown in the drawings), whether used alone or in any combination, are considered to be within the scope of the core claims of the present invention. Equivalent variations known to those skilled in the relevant art are also applicable.

[0104] It should also be pointed out that the present invention seeks to have the broadest possible scope of protection. The invention defined in the claims may also be embodied by features described together with other features (although these other features are not necessarily included). It should be explicitly pointed out that parentheses and the expression "particularly" in the corresponding context are intended to highlight the optional nature of features, which should not be understood in turn as meaning that, without such a description, a feature should be considered essential in the corresponding context.

[0105] Reference numerals list

[0106] 10Child seats

[0107] 11Accommodation space

[0108] 20 Seat Area

[0109] 21 Sitting and Standing

[0110] 22 Fasteners

[0111] 23 Armrests

[0112] 24 First side

[0113] 25 Belt guide device

[0114] 30 Backrest

[0115] 31 Backrest

[0116] 32 side pads

[0117] 33 Second side

[0118] 40 Headrest

[0119] 41 Head rest surface

[0120] 42 Flanker

[0121] 43 The third side

[0122] 44 Shoulder strap guide

[0123] 100 Side impact protection device

[0124] 110 axis

[0125] 111 First Spring

[0126] 112 Second Spring

[0127] 120 side elements

[0128] 120a recess

[0129] 121 Side element outer surface

[0130] 122 Edge surface

[0131] 123 side element stopper

[0132] 124 Side element retaining device

[0133] 125Head

[0134] 126 side element-axis receiving portion

[0135] 127 first side element spring fastener

[0136] 128 second side element spring fastener

[0137] 129 proximal part

[0138] 130 distal part

[0139] 131 side element holding section

[0140] 132 side element retaining joint

[0141] 133 Internal parts

[0142] 134 External parts

[0143] 140 base

[0144] 141 base outer surface

[0145] 142 Opening

[0146] 143 base stopper

[0147] 144 base holding device

[0148] 145a Guide section

[0149] 145b movable section

[0150] 145c arm

[0151] 146 base-axis receiving part

[0152] 147 First base spring fastener

[0153] 148 Second base spring fastener

[0154] 149 Rear

[0155] 150 Front

[0156] 151 base holding section

[0157] 152 base holding joint

[0158] 153 Framework

[0159] 154 Bridge

[0160] 155 Retention device receiving portion

[0161] 156 Sliding section

Claims

1. A child seat (10) for installation on a motor vehicle seat, the child seat (10) having at least one side and a side impact protection device (100), the side impact protection device (100) include: - side impact protection base (140), and - a side element (120) movable relative to the side impact base (140), the side element being transferable from a non-operating position, in particular a non-operating position within a predetermined width of the child seat (10), to a functional position, in particular a functional position outside the predetermined width, The side element protrudes in the lateral direction beyond the side in the functional position, wherein the side element does not protrude beyond the side in the non-working position or protrudes less than in the functional position, wherein a position conversion device is provided to enable conversion from the non-working position to the functional position, and the position conversion device is configured so that: in a first step, the lateral protrusion beyond the side can be at least substantially determined, and in a second step, the side element or at least one movable section of the side element (120) is movable, in particular slidable, preferably so that the side element (120) is at least partially located above a section of the side adjacent to the side element (120), the weight of the movable section preferably being at least 15% (weight) of the total weight of the side element (120) and / or the movable section being at least partially visible in the non-working position.

2. The child seat (10) according to claim 1, It is characterized in that The side element (120) or a movable section thereof can be moved during the second step at least substantially transversely to the lateral direction and / or substantially along the adjacent side surface.

3. The child seat (10) according to claim 1 or 2, It is characterized in that The side element (120) can be rotated during the first step, preferably about a fixed or movable axis, and / or the side element (120) or a movable section thereof can be displaced during the second step.

4. A child seat (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, It is characterized in that The first step and / or the second step is performed automatically, optionally automatically after the locking is released, which is preferably supported by at least one spring (111, 112), further preferably supported by at least one first spring (111) for supporting the second step and / or at least one second spring (112) for supporting the first step.

5. A child seat (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, It is characterized in that The functional position and / or the non-operating position can be locked.

6. A child seat (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, It is characterized in that The side element (120) and the side impact protection base (140) form a pair of mutually complementary engagement structures, in particular at least one protrusion-recess pairing, which hinders the transition from the functional position to the non-working position, preferably so that the obstruction can be overcome by a force less than or equal to 50 N, further preferably less than or equal to 10 N and / or greater than or equal to 0.1 N, preferably greater than or equal to 0.5 N, optionally greater than or equal to 1 N.

7. A child seat (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, It is characterized in that The side element (120) or the movable section can be folded backwards during the first step and / or can be moved forwards during the second step.

8. A child seat (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, It is characterized in that The side impact protection device (100) is at least partially, optionally completely, arranged in a backrest portion of the child seat (10), in particular behind a backrest contact surface and / or above a seat portion of the child seat (10) and / or on an outer side of a seat shell.

9. A child seat (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, It is characterized in that The side elements (120) are made of an at least substantially rigid material.

10. A method for adjusting a side impact protection device (100) of a child seat (10), in particular a side impact protection device of a child seat according to any of the preceding claims, the child seat (10) having at least one side and a side impact protection device (100), the side impact protection device (100) include: - side impact protection base (140), and - a side element (120) movable relative to the side impact base (140), the side element being transferable from a non-operating position, in particular a non-operating position within a predetermined width of the child seat (10), to a functional position, in particular a functional position outside the predetermined width, The side element protrudes in the lateral direction beyond the side surface in the functional position, wherein the side element does not protrude beyond the side surface or protrudes less than in the functional position in the non-operating position, wherein in a first step the lateral protrusion beyond the side surface is at least substantially determined, and in a second step at least one movable section of the side element (120) is moved, in particular slid, preferably so that the side element is at least partially located above a section of the side surface adjacent to the side element, the weight of the movable section preferably being at least 15% (weight) of the total weight of the side element and / or the movable section being at least partially visible in the non-operating position.

Images