Cushion system with rotary locking fastening device

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a cushion system (1) comprising:-a cushion (2) comprising a groove (20) on a cushion surface for receiving an occupant, an aperture (21) extending deep in a bottom wall of the groove; -detachable fastening means integral with the gasket (2), configured to secure the outer cover to said gasket, said fastening means comprising a first snap-on fastening part (30) and a second attachment part extending into the hole (21), comprising at least one stop wall (PB) configured to be in contact with the at least one shoulder (EP) under a pulling force generated by the housing to prevent extraction of the fastening device.

Description

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a cushion and a fastening device attached to the cushion, the fastening device being configured for securing a cover to the cushion. TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure relates to the field of fastening devices configured for securing a cover to a cushion. BACKGROUND

[0003] Seat cushions are generally made mainly of polyurethane (or polyurethane, PU) foam, in particular polyurethane foam obtained by polyether / polyol (or PUR) polyol. This foam can be relatively easily shaped in a mold to form cushions of different shapes, for example for different parts of a vehicle seat, such as a seat and a backrest.

[0004] It is also known to insert fasteners into the mold, such as rods, insert parts molded in plastic. In particular, these fasteners allow a cover to be secured to a cushion by snapping onto the insert fasteners.

[0005] Polyurethane foam cushions are satisfactory, but can retain moisture in humid conditions. This can cause discomfort to an occupant of a vehicle seat comprising such a cushion element.

[0006] Furthermore, polyurethane foams are traditionally made by mixing polyols with isocyanate (among other things). The chemical reactions involved release carbon dioxide to form the foam, and the emitted carbon dioxide contributes to global warming.

[0007] Furthermore, polyurethane foams are not recyclable. Thus, at the end of their useful life, a seat is disassembled and sorted in order to separate the different recyclable materials and extract the non-recyclable parts. The recyclable parts are then shredded to form new raw materials, while the non-recyclable parts are generally buried, or, if possible, incinerated to produce energy.

[0008] However, the prior art, in particular application FR 3139025 A1, discloses a cushion made of a three-dimensional entanglement of continuous fibers, these fibers being irregularly arranged to form loops that are mutually welded, this cushion being both breathable and having a low carbon dioxide emission during manufacture. The fasteners conventionally used as inserts in polyurethane foam cushions are not compatible with this three-dimensional entanglement of continuous fibers.

[0009] Application FR 3139025 A1 teaches securing a cover to a cushion by locally densifying and rigidifying the three-dimensional entanglement, and using various techniques.

[0010] According to the investigations, there is a further need for fastening systems for fixing a cover to a cushion, in particular to a cushion made of a three-dimensional entanglement of continuous fibers. SUMMARY

[0011] The present disclosure improves this situation.

[0012] A cushion system is proposed, comprising:

[0013] - a cushion having a recess in a surface for receiving an occupant

[0014] - a detachable fastening device integral with the cushion for securing a cover to the cushion, the fastening device comprising:

[0015] - a first fastening component, in particular a clasp component, comprising a deformable elastic portion for allowing the securing of the cover, the first fastening component extending outwardly from within the recess, having a base portion,

[0016] - a second attachment component comprising at least a first locking wing and a second locking wing, extending on both sides of the base portion, arranged on both sides of the first fastening component,

[0017] and wherein the fastening device is configured to be secured to the cushion by:

[0018] - inserting the fastening device into the cushion in a first insertion position so as to position the first fastening component within the recess and the first and second locking wings within the recess or into first and second holes in the depth of the bottom wall of the recess,

[0019] - locking the fastening device to the cushion by rotating the fastening device about an axis of rotation from the first insertion position to a second locked position, so that the first and second locking wings respectively enter a first receiving space forming a stop wall engaging the end of the first locking wing and a second receiving space forming a stop wall engaging the end of the second locking wing, the engagement between the first and second locking wings and the stop walls being configured to prevent the extraction of the fastening device under the pulling force generated by the cover.

[0020] The features described in the following paragraphs can, optionally, be implemented independently of one another or in various combinations with one another, each independently or in combination with one another:

[0021] According to one embodiment, the first and second locking wings of the fastening device are symmetrical about the axis of rotation, the axis of rotation passing through the first fastening component, or even the fastening device is symmetrical about the axis of rotation.

[0022] According to one embodiment, the fastening device comprises a pin protruding from below the base, coaxial with the rotation axis, and the recess of the gasket has a complementary receiving space for the pin, the engagement between the pin and the complementary receiving space ensuring the positioning and guidance of the fastening device relative to the center of the gasket when rotating the fastening device from the first insertion position to the second locked position.

[0023] Generally, the rotation axis is transverse to the recess bottom, generally perpendicular to the recess bottom.

[0024] According to one embodiment, the first fastening component is a snap-in component comprising a first element and a second element extending parallel to each other from the base, forming a hook groove between them for elastically engaging with the hook ribs of the outer cover, the hook groove being preferably aligned with the longitudinal axis of the gasket recess in the second locked position.

[0025] According to one embodiment, the locking system is configured to ensure the locking of the fastening device relative to the gasket in the second locked position and comprises at least one hole of the first locking wing and / or of the second locking wing (for example a first hole of the first wing and a second hole of the second wing) and at least one protruding rib of the stop wall of the first receiving space and / or of the second receiving space (for example a first rib of the stop wall of the first receiving space and a second rib of the stop wall of the second receiving space),

[0026] and wherein the locking system is configured to ensure the rotational locking of the fastening device relative to the gasket by engaging said rib into said at least one hole in the second locked position.

[0027] According to one embodiment, the first locking wing and the second locking wing extend as an extension of the base of the first fastening component, in particular of the base, the first locking wing and the second wing extending along the base plane, perpendicular to the rotation axis up to the tips of the first locking wing and of the second wing, configured to enter the first receiving space and the second receiving space.

[0028] According to one embodiment, the first wing and the second locking wing comprise:

[0029] - a first length portion, diametrically opposite with respect to the base, extending away from the rotation axis, the first length portion extending along a first direction D1,

[0030] - a tip comprising a first tip and a second tip, extending obliquely with respect to the first direction D1, the directions being opposite, in particular the first tip and the second tip extending along a plane perpendicular to the rotation axis,

[0031] and wherein the fastening device is configured to allow a rotation angle from the first insertion position to the second locked position of less than 45°, for example less than 30°.

[0032] According to one embodiment, the first and second locking wings extend as extensions of the base of the first fastening component, the first and second locking wings respectively comprising:

[0033] - a first length portion extending radially opposite the base along the base plane,

[0034] - a second length portion extending as an extension of the first length portion, at least in the direction of the rotation axis, away from the first fastening component at the first length portion,

[0035] - a tip comprising a first tip and a second tip, extending outwardly along a second plane perpendicular to the rotation axis, the second plane being spaced apart from the base plane in the direction of the rotation axis.

[0036] According to one embodiment, the fastening device (comprising the first fastening component, in particular the clasp component, and the second attachment component) is a one-piece plastic component.

[0037] According to one embodiment, the gasket comprises a three-dimensional entanglement of continuous thermoplastic fibers arranged irregularly, the fibers forming interwelded loops, said recess, first accommodation space and second accommodation space being formed in said three-dimensional entanglement of fibers, in particular in a dense region of the entanglement.

[0038] According to one embodiment, the material of the gasket and the material of said fastening device are thermoplastic polymers whose main chain repeat units comprise ester groups and optionally ether groups.

[0039] According to one embodiment, in said second locked position, the two stop walls of the first and second accommodation spaces are in contact with the first and second tips respectively, becoming two supports extending laterally on either side of the recess.

[0040] According to one embodiment, the first and second accommodation spaces are formed by two recesses opening from a surface of the gasket opposite the surface of the gasket comprising the recess, the first and second accommodation spaces respectively communicating with the recess directly (according to a first possibility) or indirectly through a first aperture in the bottom of the recess connecting the first accommodation space to the recess and a second aperture in the bottom of the recess connecting the second accommodation space to the recess, the first accommodation space communicating with the first aperture through a first lateral passage and the second accommodation space communicating with the second aperture through a second lateral passage.

[0041] The fastening device is oriented so that in the first insertion position, the direction passing through the tips of the first and second wings is substantially aligned with the longitudinal axis of the recess.

[0042] The locking of the fastening device to the cushion is achieved by rotating the fastening device around the transverse rotation axis at the bottom of the recess, from a first insertion position to a second locking position, during which the first locking wing and the second locking wing pass through the first lateral passage and the second lateral passage, respectively, into the first accommodation space and the second accommodation space (according to the second possibility).

[0043] According to one embodiment, in said second locking position, the fastening device is locked by the base of the fastening device in contact with the bottom of the recess or the first hole or the second hole in a direction opposite to the extraction direction.

[0044] The present disclosure also relates to a vehicle seat assembly comprising a cushion system according to the present disclosure, in the locking position of the fastening device, and a cover covering all or part of the cushion, said cover being fixed to the cushion by fixing elements, in particular snap elements, for example in elastic engagement with the first fastening part of the fastening device.

[0045] The present disclosure also relates to a method of manufacturing a cushion system of the present disclosure, comprising:

[0046] - / A / obtaining the cushion by extruding a three-dimensional entanglement of continuously thermoplastic fibers arranged irregularly, these fibers forming interwelded loops,

[0047] - / B / shaping the three-dimensional entanglement by thermoforming to obtain a recess and a first accommodation space communicating with the recess and a second accommodation space,

[0048] - / C / providing a fastening device comprising:

[0049] - a first fastening part, in particular a snap part, comprising an elastic portion, in particular deformable, configured to allow the fixing of a cover,

[0050] - a second attachment part comprising a first locking wing and a second locking wing located on either side of the first fastening part,

[0051] - / D / inserting the fastening device into the cushion, in a first insertion position, so as to position the first fastening part inside the recess and the first locking wing and the second locking wing inside the recess or in the first hole and the second hole, deep in the bottom wall of the recess,

[0052] - locking the fastening device to the cushion by rotating the fastening device around the rotation axis from a first insertion position to a second locking position, thereby bringing the first locking wing and the second locking wing into engagement with a stop wall formed by the first locking wing entering the first locking space and by the second locking wing entering the second receiving space, respectively, the engagement between the first locking wing and the second locking wing and the stop wall being configured to prevent extraction of the fastening device under tension exerted by the cover.

[0053] The present disclosure also relates to a method for recycling a vehicle seat assembly according to the present disclosure, wherein the materials of the cushion and of the fastening device are thermoplastic polymers whose main chain repeat units comprise ester groups and optionally ether groups, the method comprising:

[0054] - optionally separating the cover from the cushion system,

[0055] - comminuting the cushion and the fastening device attached to the cushion to produce granules

[0056] - using the granules to manufacture plastic products based on thermoplastic polymers whose main chain repeat units comprise ester groups and optionally ether groups, in particular by molding or extrusion. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0057] Other features, details and advantages will become clear from the following detailed description and from the analysis of the drawings, in which:

[0058] Figure 1

[0059] [ Figure 1 ] is a view of a cushion system according to a first embodiment, comprising a cushion and a fastening device comprising a first fastening component (in particular a snap component) extending outwardly from the recess bottom wall, and a second attachment component engaging with the first receiving space and the second receiving space of the cushion to ensure locking of the fastening device.

[0060] Figure 2

[0061] [ Figure 2is a view of the gasket system along a cross-sectional plane perpendicular to the axis of the gasket recess, showing the fastening device, wherein the first fastening component, in particular the snap-in component, forms a resilient recess within the recess, the second attachment component comprises a first locking wing and a second locking wing extending on both sides of the base of the resilient recess, the first and second locking wings extending transversely to the recess of the gasket, respectively in the first and second receiving spaces, arranged on both sides of the recess, the first and second locking wings are configured to abut against the stop wall of the first and second receiving spaces, respectively, to prevent extraction of the fastening device under the pulling force generated by the cover, the first rib of the stop wall engages the first hole of the first locking wing, the second rib of the stop wall engages the second hole of the second locking wing, the cross-sectional view also shows a pin extending downward from the base of the resilient recess, the pin is coaxial with the axis of rotation of the fastening device, the pin is inserted into a complementary receiving space in the depth of the recess bottom.

[0062] Figure 3

[0063] [ Figure 3 ] is a detailed perspective view of the fastening device, which can be a one-piece plastic component, the first and second locking wings extend in the direction of the axis perpendicular to the plane of the base.

[0064] Figure 4

[0065] [ Figure 4 ] is a bottom view of the fastening device, showing the pin protruding below the base, which is configured to provide central positioning and guidance when the fastening device is rotated.

[0066] Figure 5

[0067] [ Figure 5 ] is a bottom view of the gasket, viewed from the side opposite to the surface of the gasket comprising the recess, showing the first and second receiving spaces obtained by thermoforming.

[0068] Figure 6

[0069] [ Figure 6 ] is a view of the gasket along a cross-sectional plane perpendicular to the axis of the gasket recess (the fastening device is not shown).

[0070] Figure 7

[0071] [ Figure 7 ] is a series of views of the gasket system from above, viewed from left to right, showing the insertion of the fastening device, the direction of the first and second wings is consistent with the direction of the recess.

[0072] Figure 8

[0073] [ Figure 8 ] is a series of cushion system views, shown from above, successively from left to right, illustrating the locking of the fastening device from a first position (left side), in the recess of the cushion, through a quarter turn (90°) around the rotation axis, until the second locking position shown on the right side.

[0074] Figure 9

[0075] [ Figure 9 ] is a series of cushion system views, shown from below, illustrating the rotation of the fastening device to the second locking position.

[0076] Figure 10

[0077] [ Figure 10 ] is:

[0078] - on the left, a cushion system view of a second embodiment, the first wing and the second locking wing comprising a first length portion extending radially opposite with respect to the base, away from the rotation axis, the first length portion extending in a first direction D1, the extremity comprising a first extremity and a second extremity, both extending obliquely in opposite directions with respect to the first direction D1, the oblique extremities of the first locking wing and of the second locking wing forming an S shape in the direction of the rotation axis, this fastening device being remarkable in that the rotation angle a allowing the rotation from the first insertion position around the rotation axis to the second locking position is much less than a quarter turn, for example less than 45°, for example less than 30°,

[0079] - on the right, a view illustrating the rotation angle of the fastening device from the first insertion position to the second locking position.

[0080] Figure 11

[0081] [ Figure 11 ] is a cushion system view of a third embodiment, Figure 11 illustrating a fastening device, the first locking wing and the second locking wing comprising respectively:

[0082] - a first length portion extending radially opposite with respect to the base along a base plane,

[0083] - a second length portion extending as an extension of the first length portion, at least in the direction of the rotation axis, away from the first length portion at the first fastening part,

[0084] - an extremity comprising a first extremity and a second extremity, extending outwards along a second plane perpendicular to the rotation axis, the second plane being spaced apart from the base plane in the direction of the rotation axis.

[0085] Figure 12

[0086] [ Figure 12 ] is a top view of the fastening device according to Figure 11 , the first wing and the second locking wing comprising a first length portion extending radially opposite with respect to the base, away from the rotation axis, the first length portion extending along a first direction D1, the extremities comprising a first extremity and a second extremity, both extending obliquely in opposite directions with respect to the first direction D1, the oblique extremities of the first wing and of the second wing forming an S shape.

[0087] Figure 13

[0088] [ Figure 13 ] is a view of three images successively displayed, from left to right:

[0089] - a view of the grommet from one side of the groove, illustrating a first hole and a second hole of the grommet groove bottom, the first hole and the second hole being respectively intended to receive the first locking wing (comprising the second length portion and the first extremity) and the second locking wing (comprising the second length portion),

[0090] - a top view, illustrating the formation of a first containment space in communication with the first hole, and the formation of a second containment space in communication with the second hole, the first containment space and the second containment space being laterally offset with respect to the groove on both sides of the groove,

[0091] - a side view of the groove.

[0092] Figure 14

[0093] [ Figure 14 ] is a top view of the grommet system, illustrating three images successively displayed, from left to right:

[0094] - a first view, illustrating the insertion of the fastening device to position the first fastening component within the grommet, while positioning the first extremity and the second length portion of the first locking wing within the first hole, and the second extremity and the second length portion of the second locking wing within the second hole,

[0095] - a second view, illustrating the fastening device in a first insertion position,

[0096] - a third view, illustrating the rotation of the fastening device from the first insertion position to a second locking position, in which the first extremity enters the first containment space and the second extremity enters the second containment space, the cooperation of the extremities with the stop walls of the containment spaces preventing the extraction of the fastening device.

[0097] · Figure 15

[0098] [ Figure 15is a view of a method for manufacturing a cushion by extruding thermoplastic fibers, comprising: accumulating the fibers to obtain a continuous entanglement of fibers in irregular arrangement, which form interwelded loops, and solidifying the entanglement of continuous fibers in a cooling liquid. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0099] The present disclosure relates to a cushion system 1 comprising a cushion 2 and a detachable fastening device 3, which is fixed to the cushion and configured to allow a cover to be fixed to the cushion 2, preferably with the cover tensioned on the cushion.

[0100] The cushion can comprise a three-dimensional entanglement of continuous thermoplastic fibers, which are irregularly arranged to form interwelded loops, and the fastening device 3 is connected to the cushion. Typically, the fibers in the three-dimensional entanglement, which are typically polyester-based, can be hollow fibers and / or solid fibers. The diameter of the fibers can be between 0.2 mm and 2 mm, preferably between 0.3 mm and 1.5 mm. By "continuous" in "continuous fibers" it is meant that the length of the fibers is much greater than their diameter, and due to the manufacturing process (as described below), typically the length to diameter ratio is at least 100, even 500, or even 1000.

[0101] The apparent density of the three-dimensional entanglement of continuous fibers can be between 20 kg / m 3 and 70 kg / m 3 , in particular between 45 kg / m 3 and 60 kg / m 3 , preferably between 35 and 70 kg / m 3 .

[0102] For example, the composition of the fibers, and even the composition of the cushion, comprises:

[0103] - a first polyester family polymer, such as polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), in a weight percentage of 95% to 99%,

[0104] - a second polyester family polymer, such as polytrimethylene terephthalate (PTT) or other polyester, in a weight percentage of 1% to 5%.

[0105] Typically, and in particular as will be understood from the extrusion molding process that will be described subsequently, the fibers typically extend from a first end on a first edge of the three-dimensional entanglement to a second end on a second edge of the three-dimensional entanglement, the second edge being opposite the first edge.

[0106] Preferably, the fibers of the three-dimensional entanglement of the first layer 31 of the cushion leave a void between them. This results in a highly breathable cushion, as the numerous spaces between the fibers promote air circulation, in contrast to a polyurethane body, which is similar to a relatively non-breathable body.

[0107] The cushion can be, but is not limited to, a seat cushion, in particular a seat cushion, or a backrest cushion, an armrest cushion, or any other seat cushion.

[0108] The cushion 2 has a deep recess 20 in the surface for receiving an occupant, and a first containment space LG1 and a second containment space LG2. The first and second containment spaces LG1, LG2 can be formed by two depressions opening from the surface of the cushion (typically the lower surface of the cushion) opposite the surface bearing the recess 20.

[0109] The first and second containment spaces LG1, LG2 are in direct communication with the recess 20, or in indirect communication with the recess 20 through a first aperture T1 in the bottom of the recess 20 connecting the first containment space LG1 to the recess, and through a second aperture T2 in the bottom of the recess 20 connecting the second containment space LG2 to the recess. The first containment space LG1 can be in communication with the first aperture T1 through a first lateral passage Pas1, and the second containment space LG2 can be in communication with the second aperture T2 through a second lateral passage Pas2, as shown in Figure 6 .

[0110] In general, as shown in Figure 6 , the recess 20 can be located in the surface of the cushion, and the first and second apertures T1, T2 can extend beyond the depth of the recess 20. The first and second apertures T1, T2 are preferably blind apertures, i.e. do not penetrate, but extend through a portion of the cushion in the height direction of the recess 20. Typically, the fastening device 3 is fixed to the cushion in the upper part of the cushion layer, the lower part of the cushion layer not being provided with a fastening device 3.

[0111] This allows the cushion to deform freely when the occupant exerts pressure on the side of the cushion opposite the recess 20, the fastening device 3 advantageously adapting to the deformation of the cushion by compression of the cushion (typically in its thickness direction) without the risk of accidental contact of the hard fastening device 3 with a hard surface (such as a frame part) on the other side of the cushion (opposite the recess). If the fastening device (hard) were to come into accidental contact, it would result in the first fastening portion 30 protruding outside the recess 20, which would be felt as a hard point when the occupant rests on the side of the cushion: this disclosure preferably avoids this drawback.

[0112] Preferably, the length of the free section of the fastening device from the aperture to the side opposite the recess, in the direction of the axis A, can be at least half the length of the second portion of the aperture.

[0113] The cushion system comprises said removable fastening device 3, which is fixed to the cushion 2 and is configured to ensure the fixing of the cover to said cushion.

[0114] The fastening device 3 comprises:

[0115] - a first fastening member 30 configured to allow the fixing of the outer cover, said first fastening member extending outwardly from the recess 20,

[0116] - a second attachment member 31 comprising a first locking wing 311 and a second locking wing 312, both disposed on either side of the first fastening member 30. In particular, the first fastening member 30 can be a snap member comprising a deformable elastic portion.

[0117] The fastening device 3 is configured to be fixed to the cushion by:

[0118] - inserting the fastening device 3 into the cushion, in a first insertion position PI, so as to position the first fastening member 30 inside the recess 20, and the first locking wing 311 and the second locking wing 312 inside the recess, or preferably into the first hole T1 and the second hole T2, which are deep in the bottom of the recess 20,

[0119] - rotating the fastening device from the first insertion position PI to a second locked position P2 by rotating about the rotation axis AR, so as to bring the first locking wing 311 and the second locking wing 312 into the first accommodation space LG1 (which comprises a stop wall engaging the end of the first locking wing 311) and the second accommodation space LG2 (which comprises a stop wall engaging the end of the second locking wing 312), respectively.

[0120] The insertion step is illustrated in Figure 7 according to a first embodiment, in a left view according to a third embodiment. In this step, the fastening device 3 is oriented so that the direction passing through the ends of the first and second wings is substantially aligned with the longitudinal axis of the recess 20.

[0121] During the rotation of the fastening device, the first and second wings rotate about the rotation axis and pass through the first and second passages Pas1 and Pas2 into the first and second accommodation spaces LG1 and LG2, respectively.

[0122] The rotation axis AR is thus substantially transverse to the bottom of the recess 20, in particular substantially perpendicular to the bottom.

[0123] In the second locked position P2, the engagement between the first and second locking wings 311 and 312 and the stop walls PB is configured to prevent the extraction of the fastening device 3 under the pulling force generated by the outer cover. The first and second locking wings 311 and 312 abut against the two stop walls PB of the first and second accommodation spaces LG1 and LG2, respectively, and according to the two supports extending laterally on either side of the recess. The fastening device 3 is thus locked in the extraction direction (the direction of the rotation axis AR). The fastening device 3 is locked in the direction opposite to the extraction direction by the base B of the fastening device being in contact with the bottom of the recess (as shown in Figure 2 the first or second hole T1 or T2.

[0124] Generally, once fixed to the pad, the first fastening component, in particular the snap component, is preferably entirely housed within the recess of the pad. This avoids the risk of the fastening device, which is harder than the pad, being perceived as a hard spot when the occupant rests on the pad on the side of the recess 20.

[0125] Generally, the fastening device 3, comprising the first fastening component 30, in particular the snap component, and the second attachment component 31, can be a monolithic plastic component, generally plastic, and for example a component obtained by injection molding.

[0126] According to one embodiment, the first locking wing 311 and the second locking wing 312 of the fastening device 3 are symmetrical about the rotation axis AR, which passes through the first fastening component 30. Preferably, the second housing space LG2 is symmetrical about the rotation axis AR with the first housing space LG1, the second hole T2 is symmetrical about the rotation axis AR with the first hole T1.

[0127] The fastening device 30, comprising the first fastening component 30, in particular the snap component, and the second attachment component 31, can be symmetrical about the rotation axis AR. In the insertion step, the fastening device 3 can be inserted into the recess in either insertion direction, i.e. according to:

[0128] - a first arrangement in which the first locking wing is oriented in a radial direction of the rotation axis towards a first direction of the recess, the second wing being oriented towards a second, opposite direction, or

[0129] - a second arrangement in which the second locking wing is oriented in a radial direction of the rotation axis towards the second direction of the recess, the first locking wing being oriented towards the first direction.

[0130] Generally, the fastening device 3 can comprise a protruding pin PLT coaxial with the rotation axis AR, the recess 20 of the pad comprising a housing space GC complementary to the pin. Such an embodiment is illustrated by way of example in the figures, in particular in the sectional view, which illustrates the engagement between the pin PLT and the complementary housing space GC.

[0131] The engagement between the pin PLT and the complementary housing space GC ensures the positioning and guidance of the fastening device 3 relative to the pad 2 when the fastening device 3 is rotated from the first insertion position PI to the second locking position P2. The rotation axis AR, and therefore the complementary housing space GC, can be located centrally at the bottom of the recess 20, i.e. midway between the two side walls of the recess 20, as Figure 6 illustrated.

[0132] In one way, the first fastening means 30, in particular the snap-in means, can comprise a first element E1 and a second element E2, both extending parallel to each other, said first and second elements extending outwardly from the base B, forming a hook groove (in particular elastic) between them for elastically engaging with the hook ribs of the outer cover. The attachment groove (in particular elastic) is preferably aligned with the longitudinal axis of the cushion 2 groove 20 in said second locked position P2.

[0133] Generally, the cushion system 1 can comprise a plurality of fastening devices 3 distributed along the length of the groove 20 and fixed to the cushion, thereby providing a plurality of first fastening means 30, in particular snap-in means, and thus a plurality of elastic attachment grooves inside the groove, the first snap-in means being spaced apart along the length of the groove. Aligning the elastic groove in the direction of the groove axis (at least partially) facilitates the elastic mounting of the same attachment ribs into different attachment grooves.

[0134] According to one embodiment, the cushion system 1 can comprise a locking system configured to ensure the locking of the rotation of the attachment device 3 relative to the cushion 2 in the second locked position P2. Such a locking system is configured to prevent the accidental detachment of the fastening device 3.

[0135] The locking system can comprise at least one hole of the first locking wing 311 and / or of the second locking wing 312, for example a first hole O1 of the first locking wing 311 and a second hole O2 of the second locking wing 312, and at least one protruding rib of the stop wall PB of the first receiving space LG1 and / or of the second receiving space LG2, for example a first rib EG1 of the stop wall PB of the first receiving space LG1 and / or a second rib EG2 of the stop wall of the second receiving space LG2.

[0136] The locking system is configured to ensure the locking of the rotation of the fastening device 3 relative to the cushion 2 by engaging said rib into said at least one hole in the second locked position P2, in particular by locking the first rib EG1 into the first hole O1 and the second rib EG2 into the second hole O2.

[0137] When rotating from the first insertion position PI to the second locked position P2, said at least one rib, in particular the first rib EG1 and the second rib EG2, elastically cooperate with the locking wings 311, 312 until the rib enters said at least one hole, in particular the first hole O1 and the second hole O2, to lock the rotation of the fastening device.

[0138] The rotation angle a of the fastening device 3 from the first insertion position PI to the second insertion position P2 is generally between 10° and 90° around the rotation axis AR. The rotation angle a can be a quarter turn, i.e. a rotation of 90° around the rotation axis AR, for example according to the first embodiment shown in Figures 1 to 8 .

[0139] According to such an embodiment, the first and second locking wings 311, 312 extend in the longitudinal direction within the base B plane of the first fastening component, in particular from the extremities of the first and second locking wings 311, 312, for example in a direction orthogonal to the direction of the attachment groove. The direction of such an attachment groove relative to the locking wings 311, 312 is such that the attachment groove of the first fastening component is aligned with the groove in the second locked position P2 after a quarter of a rotation.

[0140] According to other embodiments of the fastening device 3, for example the embodiment shown in Figures 9 to 14 , the geometry of the first and second locking wings 311, 312 can be configured to ensure that the angle of rotation a from the first insertion position PI to the second locked position P2 around the rotation axis AR is much less than 90°, in particular less than 45°, even less than 30°.

[0141] To this end, as shown in the embodiment of Figure 10 or Figure 12 , the first and second locking wings 311, 312 can comprise:

[0142] - a first length portion SL1 extending radially opposite the base, away from the rotation axis AR, the first length portion extending in a first direction D1,

[0143] - an extremity ET comprising a first extremity ET1 and a second extremity ET2, both extending obliquely in opposite directions relative to the first direction D1. When the angle of rotation is a, the angle of obliquity between the longitudinal direction of the first extremity ET1 and the direction D1 is generally 90° - a, and the angle of obliquity between the longitudinal direction of the second extremity ET2 and the direction D1 is generally 90° - a.

[0144] As shown in the embodiment of Figure 10 or Figure 12 , the first and second locking wings, together with their oblique extremities, form an S shape in the direction of the rotation axis AR.

[0145] Thus, the fastening device is configured to allow a rotation from the first insertion position PI to the second locked position P2 with an angle of rotation a less than 45°, for example less than 30°.

[0146] In particular in the second locked position P2 shown in the right-hand figure, the first and second extremities ET1, ET2 extend in a length direction substantially perpendicular to the direction of the groove and are inserted into the first and second containment spaces LG1, LG2 on either side of the groove 20. Figure 14 In

[0147] and Figure 1 , or Figure 2 , the first and second locking wings 311, 312 are configured to form an S shape in the direction of the rotation axis AR. Figure 9In an embodiment of the first aspect, the first and second locking wings 311, 312 extend in the base B plane of the first fastening component 30, so that the stop walls of the first and second accommodation spaces LG1, LG2 are flush with the groove bottom.

[0148] In Figures 11 to 14 In another embodiment of the first aspect, the first and second locking wings 311, 312, which extend as extensions of the first fastening component base B, can respectively comprise:

[0149] - a first length portion PR1 extending radially opposite the base B plane with respect to the base,

[0150] - a second length portion PR2 extending as an extension of the first length portion, at least in the direction of the rotation axis AR, away from the first fastening component 30 at the first length portion PR1,

[0151] - a tip ET comprising a first tip ET1 and a second tip ET2, extending outwardly along a second plane perpendicular to the rotation axis AR, and the second plane being spaced apart from the base B plane in the direction of the rotation axis AR.

[0152] In the first insertion position PI of the fastening device 3, the first length portions PR1 belonging to the first and second locking wings 311, 312 are accommodated in the groove 20, while the second length portions PR2 belonging to the first and second locking wings 311, 312 are respectively accommodated in the first and second holes T1, T2.

[0153] The first tip ET1 at the distal end of the first length portion PR1 is thus located at the depth of the first hole T1, at a distance from the groove bottom, while the second tip ET2 at the distal end of the second length portion PR2 is thus located at the depth of the second hole T2, at a distance from the groove 20 bottom.

[0154] This embodiment allows the tips ET1, ET2 to engage with the stop walls PB of the first and second accommodation spaces LG1, LG2, which are deeper than the groove bottom, for example by one centimeter in the direction of the rotation axis, or even deeper than the groove 20 bottom. The distance between the base B plane and the second plane containing the tips can be greater than the depth dimension of the groove, even several times (e.g. 2 times, 3 times, etc.) the depth of the groove 20. This offset of the tips ET1, ET2 on the second plane with respect to the base plane allows the tips ET to be supported on a gasket portion above the stop walls, which is thicker than in the first embodiment, in particular in order to improve the tear resistance.

[0155] The present disclosure also relates to a vehicle seat assembly comprising a cushion system 2 according to the present disclosure, and a cover covering all or part of the cushion and being fixed to the cushion by one part, in particular a snap part, in particular by elastic snap to the first fastening part, in particular to the snap portion of the fixing device 3 mounted on the cushion.

[0156] The material of the cushion 2 and the material of the fixing device 3 can be the same material, or two different materials but having similar physico-chemical properties, in particular the same chemical composition. Advantageously, this makes it possible to recycle the cushion and the fixing device simultaneously, without having to separate them.

[0157] For example, the material of the cushion 2 and the material of the fixing device 3 can be a thermoplastic polymer, in particular a thermoplastic polymer whose backbone repeat unit comprises an ester group and optionally an ether group, in particular a thermoplastic elastomer whose backbone repeat unit comprises an ester group and optionally an ether group. Thus, the present disclosure also relates to a method for recycling a vehicle seat assembly according to the present disclosure, in which the material of the cushion 2 and of the fixing device 3 is a thermoplastic polymer as described above, comprising:

[0158] - optionally, separating the cover from the cushion system,

[0159] - comminuting the cushion 2 and the fixing device 3 connected to the cushion, to produce granules,

[0160] - using the granules to manufacture a plastic product based on a thermoplastic polymer as described above, in particular by molding or extrusion.

[0161] Optionally, when the cover is also made of a thermoplastic material compatible with the material of the cushion and of the fixing device, it can be possible to not separate the cover, but to comminute it simultaneously with the cushion and the fixing device, further simplifying the recycling process.

[0162] The present disclosure also relates to a method for manufacturing a cushion system according to the present disclosure, comprising:

[0163] - / A / obtaining the cushion by extruding a three-dimensional entanglement of continuous thermoplastic fibers arranged irregularly, the fibers forming interwelded loops,

[0164] - / B / shaping the three-dimensional entanglement by thermoforming to obtain in the cushion a groove 20 and a first containment space LG1 and a second containment space LG2 communicating with the groove 20, or a first hole T1 connecting the groove and the first containment space LG1, and a second hole T2 connecting the groove and the second containment space LG2,

[0165] - / C / providing a fixing device comprising:

[0166] - a first fastening component 30, in particular a snap component, comprising a deformable elastic portion, configured to allow the fixing of the outer cover,

[0167] - a second attachment component 31 comprising a first locking wing 311 and a second locking wing 312 positioned on either side of the first fastening component 30,

[0168] - / D / inserting the fastening device 3 into the gasket, in a first insertion position PI, so as to position the first fastening component 30 inside the recess 20 and the first locking wing 311 and the second locking wing 312 inside the recess or in the first hole T1 and the second hole T2, which are deep in the bottom wall of the recess 20,

[0169] - / E / locking the fastening device 3 to the gasket by rotating it around the rotation axis AR from the first insertion position PI to a second locking position P2, so that the first locking wing 311 and the second locking wing 312 respectively enter a first locking housing space LG1 forming a stop wall that engages with the first locking wing 311 and a second housing space LG2 forming a stop wall that engages with the second locking wing 312, the engagement between said first locking wing 311 and second locking wing 312 and the stop walls being configured to prevent the extraction of the fastening device 3 under the pulling force generated by the outer cover.

[0170] According to one embodiment, in / A / the three-dimensional entanglement of continuous fibers is obtained by a method comprising the following steps:

[0171] - / A1 / extruding a thermoplastic polymer in an extrusion die comprising extrusion nozzles distributed along a longitudinal direction and a transverse direction of the extrusion die, generating a curtain composed of molten continuous fibers, the curtain falling under the action of gravity,

[0172] - / A2 / receiving the curtain of molten continuous fibers falling under the action of gravity on one or more support elements, generating an irregular or random distribution of three-dimensional fiber entanglements with loop fusion between the continuous fibers,

[0173] - / A3 / solidifying the three-dimensional fiber entanglements by immersion in a cooling liquid.

[0174] Reference is now made to Figure 15 which illustrates one example of an insert manufacturing process. The process comprises extruding a thermoplastic polymer, in particular a thermoplastic polymer as described above, in an FE extrusion die of a facility. The FE extrusion die can be supplied with pellets of a thermoplastic polymer as described above, in particular for example from a recycling process.

[0175] The FE extrusion die comprises extrusion nozzles distributed along the longitudinal direction and the transverse direction of the extrusion die. In / A1 / the extrusion die generates a continuous melt fiber veil RD from the thermoplastic polymer, which under the action of gravity falls. The melt continuous fiber veil RD is then passed between two counter-rotating crushing elements RC1, RC2, for example in the form of rollers, generating irregular or random three-dimensional fiber entanglements and fusing loops between the fibers and forming a layer according to the total thickness determined by the center distance between the two crushing elements RC1, RC2.

[0176] In / A2 / the rotation speed of the two crushing elements RC1, RC2 is generally lower than the fiber falling speed, ensuring fiber accumulation, leading to loop formation and thermal welding between the fibers, thus generating irregular, random three-dimensional entanglements.

[0177] Finally, the fiber entanglements are solidified by immersing them in a cooling liquid LR, forming a cushion, after which a possible cutting operation is performed, allowing the three-dimensional continuous fiber entanglements to be obtained. Solidification is obtained immediately after step / B2 / and the two guide elements can be partially immersed in the cooling liquid for this purpose.

[0178] The continuously rolled three-dimensional fiber entanglement layer is then guided out of the cooling tank for drying, usually by shaking / vibrating. The unwound layer is then cut by transverse cutting, allowing different first layers CH cushions to be produced, such as Figure 10 as can be seen.

[0179] The three-dimensional fiber entanglement layer can be shaped in particular by thermoforming to form the recess 20, or even the first T1 and second T2 holes from the side of the cushion receiving the seat occupant, the first T1 and second T2 holes emerging from the bottom of the recess 20. Complementary accommodation spaces for cooperation with the pegs PLT can be formed by thermoforming during the formation of the recess 20.

[0180] The first LG1 and second LG2 accommodation spaces can be formed by thermoforming from a second side opposite the side of the cushion carrying the recess, by means of non-penetrating recesses emerging from this second side. The first EG1 and second EG2 ribs can be formed simultaneously by thermoforming. A first passage Pas1 is created between the first accommodation space LG1 and the first hole T1, and a second passage Pas2 is created between the second accommodation space LG2 and the second hole T2. Thermoforming the first LG1 and second LG2 accommodation spaces makes it possible in particular to densify the three-dimensional thermoplastic fiber entanglements, especially at the stop wall PB for fixing the first 311 and second 312 locking wings.

[0181] It can be understood that the cushion system can comprise a fastening device 3, even more preferably a plurality of fastening devices, in particular as described previously, the fastening devices being distributed along the length of the same recess.

[0182] When the cushion is a seat cushion or a backrest cushion, the cushion, in particular the three-dimensional entanglement of continuous fibers, can comprise a central portion, generally referred to in the art as "core", for receiving the buttocks and / or the thighs of the occupant of the seat cushion, and at least one side portion PL, in particular a right side portion and a left side portion, generally in the form of a lateral sausage, raised with respect to the central portion PC, said side portions being configured to ensure the lateral support of the occupant, raised with respect to the central portion.

[0183] Said recess 20 can extend along the length of the cushion, through the depth of the central portion PC, and along the side portions, said recess 20 being adjacent to the side portions and being configured to stretch the outer cover onto the central portion, while abutting against the surface of the central portion of the cushion.

[0184] List of reference signs

[0185] - 1 : cushion system,

[0186] - 2: cushion,

[0187] - 20: recess,

[0188] - T1, T2: first and second holes,

[0189] - 3: fastening means,

[0190] - 30: first fastening component, in particular snap-on,

[0191] - E1, E2: first and second elastic components forming a hook-and-slot,

[0192] - 31 : second attachment component,

[0193] - 311 : first locking wing,

[0194] - 312: second locking wing,

[0195] - ET, ET1, ET2: end, in particular first and second ends,

[0196] - O1 : first hole,

[0197] - O2: second hole,

[0198] - AR: axis of rotation,

[0199] - SL1 : first length portion,

[0200] - D1 : first direction,

[0201] - B: base,

[0202] - PLT: pin (centering and guiding),

[0203] - GC: complementary receiving space (pin)

[0204] - PR1 : first length portion (extending along the base plane), - PR2: second length portion;

[0205] - PC: central portion (cushion),

[0206] - PL: side portion (cushion).

[0207] - Pas1, Pas2: first and second passage

Claims

1. Cushion system (1) comprising: - a cushion (2) comprising a recess (20) on a cushion surface for receiving an occupant, - a removable fastening device (3) integral with the cushion (2) configured for securing a cover to said cushion, said fastening device comprising: - a first fastening part (30), in particular a snap part, comprising a deformable elastic portion configured to allow the securing of a cover, said first fastening part extending outwardly from within the recess (20) and comprising a base (B), - a second attachment part (31) comprising at least a first locking wing (311) and a second locking wing (312) extending on either side of the base (B) and disposed on either side of the first fastening part (30), and wherein said fastening device (3) is configured to be secured to the cushion by: - inserting the fastening device (3) into the cushion in a first insertion position (PI) so as to position the first fastening part (30) within the recess (20) and the first and second locking wings (311, 312) within the recess or into first and second holes (Tl, T2) that are deep in the bottom wall of the recess, - locking the fastening device to the cushion by rotating the fastening device (3) from the first insertion position (PI) to a second locked position (P2) about a rotation axis (AR) so that the first and second locking wings (311, 312) respectively enter a first containment space (LG1) forming a stop wall engaging the end of the first locking wing (311) and a second containment space (LG2) forming a stop wall engaging the end of the second locking wing (312), the engagement between said first and second locking wings (311, 312) and the stop walls being configured to prevent the extraction of the fastening device (3) under the pulling force generated by the cover.

2. The cushion system of claim 1, wherein, said fastening device (3) comprising a projecting pin (PLT) coaxial with said rotation axis (AR) and the bottom of the recess (20) of the cushion having a complementary containment space (GC) for the pin located below the base (B), the engagement between the pin (PLT) and the complementary containment space (GC) ensuring the centering and guiding of the fastening device (3) relative to the cushion (2) when rotating the fastening device from the first insertion position (PI) to the second locked position (P2).

3. The cushion system according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that The first fastening part (30) is a snap part comprising a first element (El) and a second element (E2) extending parallel to each other, said first and second elements of said base (B) forming between them a hook groove for elastically engaging a hook rib of the cover, said hook groove being aligned with the longitudinal axis of the recess (20) of the cushion (2) in said second locked position (P2).

4. The mattress system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, comprising a locking system configured to ensure rotational locking of the fastening device (3) with respect to the mattress (2) in the second locked position (P2) and comprising at least one hole of the first locking wing (311) and / or the second locking wing (312), such as a first hole (01) of the first wing (311) and a second hole (02) of the second wing (312), and at least one protruding rib of the stop wall of the first receiving space (LG1) and / or the second receiving space, such as a first rib (EG1) of the stop wall of the first receiving space (LG1) and a second rib (EG2) of the stop wall of the second receiving space (LG2), And wherein, the locking system being configured to ensure rotational locking of the fastening device (3) with respect to the mattress (2) in the second locked position (P2) by engaging said rib into said at least one hole.

5. The cushion system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, the first locking wing (311) and the second locking wing (312) extending as an extension of said base portion (B) of said first fastening component, said first locking wing (311) and second wing (312) extending along said base plane, perpendicular to the rotation axis (AR) up to a tip (ET) of said first locking wing (311) and second wing (312) configured to enter the first receiving space (LG1) and the second receiving space (LG2).

6. The cushion system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, the first wing (311) and the second locking wing (312) extending as an extension of said base portion (B) comprising: - a first length portion (SL1) extending radially opposite with respect to the base portion, away from the rotation axis (AR), the first length portion extending in a first direction D1, - a tip (ET) comprising a first tip (EAT1) and a second tip (ET2), the first tip and the second tip extending obliquely in opposite directions with respect to the first direction D1, and wherein the fastening device is configured to allow a rotation angle (a) from the first insertion position (PI) to the second locked position (P2) of less than 45°, such as less than 30°.

7. The cushion system according to any one of claims 1 to 4 and 6, wherein, the first locking wing (311) and the second locking wing (312) extending as an extension of said base portion (B), in particular of the base portion (B) according to claim 3 or 6, said first locking wing (311) and second locking wing (312) respectively comprising: - a first length portion (PR1) extending radially opposite with respect to the base portion (B) along a base plane, - a second length portion (PR2) extending as an extension of the first length portion, at least in a direction of the rotation axis (AR), away from the first fastening component (30) at the first length portion, - a tip (ET) comprising a first tip (ET1) and a second tip (ET2), extending outwardly along a second plane perpendicular to the rotation axis (AR), said second plane being spaced apart from the base portion (B) plane in the direction of the rotation axis (AR).

8. The cushion system according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein, In said second locked position (P2), the two stop walls (PB) of the first (LG1) and second (LG2) containment spaces are in contact with the first (ET1) and second (ET2) extremities, respectively, becoming two supports extending laterally on both sides of the recess (20).

9. The cushion system of claim 8, wherein, The first (LG1) and second (LG2) containment spaces are formed by two recesses opening from the surface of the pad opposite the surface with the recess (20), the first (LG1) and second (LG2) containment spaces being in direct communication with the recess (20) according to a first possibility, or in indirect communication with the recess (20) according to a second possibility, through a first hole (T1) in the bottom of the recess (20) connecting the first containment space (LG1) to the recess, and through a second hole (T2) in the bottom of the recess (20) connecting the second containment space (LG2) to the recess (20), the first containment space (LG1) being in communication with the first hole (T1) through a first lateral passage (Pas1), the second containment space (LG2) being in communication with the second hole (T2) through a second lateral passage (Pas2), and wherein the fastening device (3) is oriented so that, in the first insertion position (PI), the direction passing through the extremities of the first (311) and second (312) wings is substantially aligned with the longitudinal axis of the recess (20), and wherein the locking of the fastening device to the pad is achieved by rotating the fastening device about said rotation axis (AR) transverse to the bottom of the recess (20), from the first insertion position (PI) to the second locked position (P2), during which rotation the first (311) and second (312) locking wings pass through the first (Pas1) and second (Pas2) lateral passages, respectively, into the first (LG1) and second (LG2) containment spaces, according to the second possibility.

10. The cushion system according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein, In said second locked position (P2), the fastening device (3) is locked in contact with the bottom of the recess or with the bottom of the first hole (T1) or with the bottom of the second hole (T2) in a direction opposite to the extraction direction, when the device is according to claim 9.

11. The cushion system according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein, Said rotation axis (AR) is transverse to the bottom of the recess (20), in particular perpendicular to the bottom of the recess (20).

12. A vehicle seat assembly comprising a pad system according to any one of claims 1 to 11, in the second locked position (P2) of the fastening device, and a cover covering all or part of the pad, the cover being fixed to the pad by fixing elements, in particular snap elements, for example in elastic engagement with the first fastening part (30) of the fastening device (3).

13. A method of manufacturing a pad system according to any one of claims 1 to 11, comprising: / A / obtaining the pad by extruding a three-dimensional entanglement of continuously thermoplastic fibers arranged irregularly, the fibers forming interwelded loops, - / B / shaping the three-dimensional entanglement by thermoforming to obtain a recess (20) and a first containment space (LG1) communicating with the recess (20) and a second containment space (LG2), - / C / providing a fastening device comprising: - a first fastening part (30), in particular a snap part, comprising in particular a deformable elastic portion, configured to allow the cover to be fastened, - a second attachment part (31) comprising a first locking wing (311) and a second locking wing (312) disposed on either side of the first fastening part (30), - / D / inserting the fastening device (3) into the gasket, in a first insertion position (P1), so as to position the first fastening part (30) inside the recess (20) and the first locking wing (311) and the second locking wing (312) inside the recess, or in the first hole (T1) and the second hole (T2) deep in the bottom wall of the recess (20), - / E / locking the fastening device (3) to the gasket by rotating it around the rotation axis (AR) from the first insertion position (P1) to a second locking position (P2), so as to bring the first locking wing (311) and the second locking wing (312) respectively into the first locking space (LG1) forming a stop wall engaged with the first locking wing (311) and into the second containment space (LG2) forming a stop wall engaged with the second locking wing (312), the engagement between the first locking wing (311) and the second locking wing (312) and the stop walls being configured to prevent the extraction of the fastening device (3) under the pulling force generated by the cover.

14. A method for recycling the vehicle seat assembly according to claim 12, characterized in that, The materials of the gasket (2) and of the fastening device (3) are thermoplastic polymers whose main chain repeat units comprise ester groups and optionally ether groups, the method comprising: - optionally, separating the cover from the gasket system, - comminuting the gasket (2) and the fastening device (3) attached to it, to produce granules, - using the granules to manufacture plastic products based on thermoplastic polymers whose main chain repeat units comprise ester groups and optionally ether groups, in particular by molding or extrusion.

Images