Vehicle seat

Abstract

[Task] A vehicle seat having a swivel mechanism is configured so as to prevent tilting of a rotating member thereof. [Solution] A vehicle seat (1) is provided with: a seat body (3) having a seat cushion (7); and a swivel mechanism 2 provided between the floor 5 and the seat cushion, rotatably supporting the seat cushion such that the seat cushion is rotatable about a rotation axis A extending in the vertical direction, in which the swivel mechanism includes a base member 41 and a rotation member 42 rotatably supported by the base member and rotatable about the rotation axis, the swivel mechanism includes a plurality of spacer members 171 and a plurality of biasing members 172 provided between the outer periphery of the base member and the outer periphery of the rotating member such that the spacer members 171 prevent the rotating member from approaching the base member and such that the biasing members 172 urge the rotating member toward the base member, and wherein the rotating member is provided between the base member and the rotating member. The plurality of spacer members and the plurality of biasing members are arranged on an imaginary circle C centered on the rotation axis.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present application relates to a vehicle seat. BACKGROUND

[0002] Patent Literature 1 discloses a vehicle seat that is rotatable about a vertical rotation axis with respect to a floor. The vehicle seat includes a swivel mechanism provided between the floor and a seat cushion. The swivel mechanism includes a base member provided on the floor side, and a rotation member rotatably supported by the base member and coupled to the seat cushion. A ring-shaped thrust bearing centered on the rotation axis is interposed between the base member and the rotation member. The vehicle seat is further provided with a separation suppression member on the radially outer side of the thrust bearing to prevent the rotation member from separating from the base member.

[0003] PRIOR ART DOCUMENTS PATENT LITERATURE

[0004] Patent Literature 1: US2020 / 0317091A1 SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0005] TASK TO BE ACCOMPLISHED BY THE INVENTION

[0006] However, the separation suppression member cannot resist a force applied in a direction in which the base member and the rotation member approach each other. This leads to a problem that when a downward force is applied to the outer periphery of the rotation member, the outer periphery of the rotation member is deformed downward and displaced, causing the seat cushion to tilt. In addition, the deformation of the rotation member hinders smooth rotation thereof.

[0007] The present application has been made in view of the above-described problems of the related art, and a primary task to be accomplished by the present application is to provide a vehicle seat assembly having a swivel mechanism configured to prevent tilting of a rotation member thereof.

[0008] MEANS FOR ACCOMPLISHING THE TASK

[0009] As a solution to the above-described task to be accomplished, one aspect of the present application provides a vehicle seat (1) including a seat body (3) having a seat cushion (7), and a swivel mechanism (2) provided between a floor (5) and the seat cushion, rotatably supporting the seat cushion so that the seat cushion is rotatable about a rotation axis (A) extending in a vertical direction, wherein the swivel mechanism includes a base member (41) and a rotation member (42) rotatably supported by the base member and rotatable about the rotation axis, wherein the swivel mechanism includes a plurality of spacer members (171) and a plurality of bias members (172) provided between an outer periphery of the base member and an outer periphery of the rotation member so that the plurality of spacer members (171) prevent the rotation member from approaching the base member, and so that the plurality of bias members (172) urge the rotation member toward the base member, and wherein the plurality of spacer members and the plurality of bias members are arranged on an imaginary circle (C) centered on the rotation axis.

[0010] In this structure, the plurality of spacer members (171) and the plurality of bias members (172) are arranged between the outer periphery of the base member and the outer periphery of the rotation member, which maintains the distance between the base member and the rotation member. This configuration suppresses tilting of the rotation member in the vehicle seat having the swivel mechanism. Further, in this structure, the plurality of spacer members and the plurality of bias members are arranged on the imaginary circle (C) centered on the rotation axis, which achieves balanced support of the rotation member with respect to the base member, and also achieves compact arrangement of the spacer members and the bias members.

[0011] The above-described vehicle seat can be configured so that the base member includes a plurality of support brackets (176), and each of the plurality of support brackets includes one or more spacer members and one or more bias members.

[0012] This configuration enables assembly of the one or more spacer members and the one or more bias members into a single unit, thereby facilitating assembly work.

[0013] The above-described vehicle seat can be configured so that the swivel mechanism includes one or more separation suppression members (170) provided between the outer periphery of the base member and the outer periphery of the rotation member, and each separation suppression member includes a lower hook (182) protruding upward from an edge of the support bracket, and an upper hook (186) protruding downward from the rotation member and bent to face the lower hook from below through a gap.

[0014] In this configuration, even if a vehicle collision or the like occurs and a significant force (load) is applied to the seat body, the separation suppression member suppresses tilting of the rotation member with respect to the base member.

[0015] The vehicle seat described above can be configured such that the lower hook is disposed outside the imaginary circle, and the plurality of spacing members or the plurality of biasing members are disposed on a radial line extending from the rotation axis to the lower hook.

[0016] This configuration enables a compact arrangement of the spacing members, the biasing members, and the separation suppression members.

[0017] The vehicle seat described above can be configured such that each of the plurality of support brackets is provided with one of the plurality of biasing members disposed between two of the plurality of spacing members.

[0018] In this configuration, the rotation member is pushed downward by the biasing member to contact the two rollers, which suppresses tilting of the rotation member.

[0019] The vehicle seat described above can be configured such that the base member is supported on the floor via left and right slide mechanisms (4), wherein the base member includes one or more lower brackets (46) coupled to the left and right slide mechanisms, and a base plate (47) supported by the one or more lower brackets, wherein the rotation member includes a rotation plate (56) rotatably supported by the base plate, and an upper bracket (57) coupled to the rotation plate, wherein the upper bracket is coupled to an upper surface of the rotation plate and is also coupled to the seat body, wherein the plurality of spacing members and the plurality of biasing members are arranged between the lower bracket and the upper bracket, and wherein the rotation plate is disposed at a vertical position between an upper end and a lower end of each support bracket.

[0020] This configuration enables the slide mechanisms and the swivel ring mechanism to be manufactured compactly.

[0021] The vehicle seat described above can be configured such that each of the plurality of support brackets overlaps one of the left and right slide mechanisms when viewed from above, and a portion of the rotation plate is disposed below an upper end of the left and right slide mechanisms.

[0022] This configuration enables the slide mechanisms and the swivel ring mechanism to be manufactured compactly.

[0023] The vehicle seat described above can be configured such that each of the plurality of biasing members includes a locking tab (172A) protruding downward from the rotation member, a support column (172B) protruding upward from the base member, a contact tab (172C) supported on the support column such that the contact tab can move vertically and contacts the locking tab from above, and a biasing member (172D) disposed between the support column and the contact tab to push the contact tab downward.

[0024] This design allows a rotating component that can rotate relative to a fixed component to be pushed toward the side of the fixed component.

[0025] The aforementioned vehicle seat can be configured such that each spacer component includes a roller (171B) rotatably supported by a corresponding support bracket, and is able to contact the rotating component at the roller.

[0026] This design reduces the frictional resistance between each of the spaced components and the rotating component as the rotating component rotates.

[0027] The aforementioned vehicle seat can be configured such that a portion of each of the plurality of spacer members is located in a vertical position between the upper end of the lower hook and the lower end of the upper hook.

[0028] This structure achieves a balanced arrangement of each spacer component and its corresponding separation and suppression component.

[0029] The aforementioned vehicle seat can be configured such that the seat body includes a seat back (8) disposed at the rear of the seat cushion via a tilting device (35), and a headrest (9) disposed at the top of the seat back, wherein the tilting device allows the user to freely adjust the tilt angle of the seat back relative to the seat cushion.

[0030] In this configuration, the seat body, which includes the seat cushion, seat back, headrest, and tilting mechanism, is rotatably supported by a rotating mechanism.

[0031] Another aspect of the invention provides a vehicle seat (1) comprising: a seat body (3) having a seat cushion (7); and a rotating mechanism (2) disposed between a floor (5) and the seat cushion, rotatably supporting the seat cushion such that the seat cushion is rotatable about a rotation axis (A) extending in a vertical direction, wherein the rotating mechanism includes a base component (41), a rotating component (42) rotatably supported by the base component and rotatable about the rotation axis, and a bearing (63) disposed between the base component and the rotating component, wherein the rotating component... The ring mechanism includes a plurality of spacer members (171) and a plurality of biasing members (172) disposed between the outer periphery of the base member and the outer periphery of the rotating member, such that the plurality of spacer members (171) prevent the rotating member from approaching the base member, and the plurality of biasing members (172) push the rotating member toward the base member, wherein the bearing is a thrust bearing extending annularly and centered on the axis of rotation, and the plurality of spacer members are arranged radially outward of the bearing about the axis of rotation.

[0032] In this configuration, spacers are arranged radially outward of the bearing, maintaining the distance between the outer periphery of the base component and the outer periphery of the rotating component, thereby suppressing tilting of the rotating component in a vehicle seat with a swivel mechanism. Furthermore, in this configuration, multiple spacers reduce the force (load) that can be applied to the bearing, preventing indentations from forming on the rotating and base components.

[0033] The aforementioned vehicle seat can be configured such that the swivel mechanism includes one or more separation-inhibiting members (170) disposed between the outer periphery of the base member and the outer periphery of the rotating member, and each separation-inhibiting member includes a lower hook (182) projecting upward from the base member and an upper hook (186) projecting downward from the rotating member and bent to face the lower hook from below through a gap, wherein each separation-inhibiting member is arranged radially outward of the corresponding spacer member about the axis of rotation.

[0034] In this design, even in the event of a vehicle collision or similar incident, and with significant forces (loads) applied to the seat body, the tilting of the rotating components relative to the base components is suppressed.

[0035] The aforementioned vehicle seat can be configured such that at least one of the plurality of spacer members and its corresponding lower hook are positioned on a radial line extending from the axis of rotation.

[0036] This design allows for a compact arrangement of the spacer components and their corresponding hooks.

[0037] The aforementioned vehicle seat can be configured such that the lower cover is attached to the peripheral edge of the base component, and the plurality of spacer members are disposed inside the lower cover, i.e., on one side of the axis of rotation.

[0038] In this design, the spacer components can be concealed by the lower cover.

[0039] Another aspect of the invention provides a vehicle seat (1) comprising: a seat body (3) having a seat cushion (7); and a rotating mechanism (2) disposed between a floor (5) and the seat cushion, rotatably supporting the seat cushion such that the seat cushion is rotatable about a rotation axis (A) extending in a vertical direction, wherein the rotating mechanism includes a base member (41) and a rotating member (42) rotatably supported by the base member and rotatable about the rotation axis, wherein the rotating mechanism includes a plurality of spacer members (171) and a plurality of biasing members (172) disposed between the outer periphery of the base member and the outer periphery of the rotating member. The plurality of spacers (171) prevent the rotating component from approaching the base component, and the plurality of biasing components (172) push the rotating component toward the base component. The plurality of spacers are disposed on the base component, each spacer including a support shaft (171A) extending radially outward from the axis of rotation, and a roller (171B) rotatably supported on the support shaft. Each roller has an outer peripheral surface formed as a tapered surface, the diameter of which increases radially outward from the axis of rotation. The rotating component has an inclined surface (188) that is radially inclined upward from the axis of rotation, and the plurality of rollers are in contact with the inclined surface.

[0040] In this configuration, multiple rollers can support both the vertical force (load) applied from the rotating component and the force (load) applied in the radial direction extending from the axis of rotation, which enables the multiple rollers to reduce the horizontal positional offset of the rotating component relative to the stationary component.

[0041] The aforementioned vehicle seat can be configured such that each of the plurality of support shafts is provided with a biasing member (172D) that pushes a corresponding roller radially inward toward the axis of rotation.

[0042] This design allows multiple rollers to contact the inclined surface.

[0043] The aforementioned vehicle seat can be configured such that multiple support brackets are mounted on the base component and support corresponding support shafts.

[0044] In this configuration, one or more rollers, one or more support shafts, and corresponding support brackets can be assembled into a single unit, thereby facilitating the assembly operation of mounting the rollers onto the base component.

[0045] The aforementioned vehicle seat can be configured such that each of the plurality of support brackets includes an inner wall (171C) and an outer wall (171D), the inner wall and the outer wall respectively supporting the inner end and the outer end of a corresponding support shaft, the inner and outer ends being arranged radially inward toward the axis of rotation and radially outward away from the axis of rotation, respectively.

[0046] This structure provides stable support for each support axis.

[0047] The aforementioned vehicle seat can be configured such that each of the plurality of biasing members is a helical spring and is disposed around the outer end side of the corresponding support shaft.

[0048] This design simplifies the manufacture of structures that allow the biasing components to be mounted to the corresponding support shafts.

[0049] The aforementioned vehicle seat can be configured such that each of the plurality of rollers has a recess (171F) at its radially outer end that is recessed inward toward the axis of rotation, wherein the end of each biasing member is received within the corresponding recess.

[0050] This design prevents the biasing component from shifting its horizontal position relative to the roller.

[0051] The aforementioned vehicle seat can be configured such that the upper end of the inner wall of the support bracket is positioned below the upper edge of the radially inner end of the corresponding roller, and the upper end of the outer wall of the support bracket is positioned below the upper edge of the radially outer end of the corresponding roller.

[0052] This design prevents the inner and outer walls from contacting the rotating parts.

[0053] The aforementioned vehicle seat can be configured such that a bearing (63) having an annular shape centered on the axis of rotation is disposed between the base component and the rotating component, and the plurality of rollers are disposed radially outside the bearing.

[0054] In this configuration, multiple rollers are positioned radially outside the bearing, maintaining the distance between the outer periphery of the base component and the outer periphery of the rotating component. This suppresses tilting of the rotating component in the vehicle seat.

[0055] The aforementioned vehicle seat can be configured such that the swivel mechanism includes one or more separation-inhibiting members (170) disposed between the outer periphery of the base member and the outer periphery of the rotating member, and each separation-inhibiting member includes a lower hook (182) projecting upward from the base member and an upper hook (186) projecting downward from the rotating member and bent to face the lower hook from below through a gap, wherein each separation-inhibiting member is arranged radially outward of the corresponding roller about the axis of rotation.

[0056] In this design, even in the event of a vehicle collision or similar incident and a significant force (load) is applied to the seat body, the tilting of the rotating components relative to the base components is suppressed.

[0057] The aforementioned vehicle seat can be configured such that each biasing component is positioned radially inside the corresponding separation suppression component about the axis of rotation.

[0058] This design allows for a compact arrangement of the biasing components.

[0059] Patent document JP2020-196306A discloses a vehicle seat capable of rotating relative to a floor about a vertical axis of rotation. The vehicle seat includes one or more sliding mechanisms disposed on the floor, and a rotating mechanism disposed between the floor and the seat cushion. The rotating mechanism includes a base member supported by the sliding mechanisms, and a rotating member rotatably supported by the base member and coupled to the seat cushion. The base member has a lower cover attached thereto, and the rotating member has an upper cover attached thereto. The lower and upper covers cover the rotating mechanism, thereby preventing foreign objects from entering the rotating mechanism and also improving the appearance of the vehicle seat. Furthermore, the upper cover covers the gap between the rotating mechanism and the seat cushion.

[0060] In some cases, the lifting mechanism for changing the height of the seat cushion is located between the rotating component and the seat cushion. In this situation, when the seat cushion is raised by the lifting mechanism, a gap can be created between the seat cushion and the lower cover, which poses a risk of foreign objects entering.

[0061] The present invention was made in view of the above-mentioned problems of the prior art, and the primary objective of the present invention is to provide a vehicle seat having a rotating mechanism and a lifting mechanism, configured to prevent foreign objects from entering the vehicle seat.

[0062] As a solution to the aforementioned task, one aspect of the present invention provides a vehicle seat (1) comprising: a seat body (3) having a seat cushion (7); a swivel mechanism (2) disposed between a floor (5) and the seat cushion, rotatably supporting the seat cushion such that the seat cushion is rotatable about a rotation axis (A) extending in a vertical direction; a lifting mechanism (110) disposed between the swivel mechanism and the seat cushion, the lifting mechanism supporting the seat cushion such that the seat cushion is vertically movable about the swivel mechanism between a high position and a low position; a swivel mechanism cover (200) disposed on the swivel mechanism; and a plurality of side covers (21) disposed on the left and right sides of the seat cushion, wherein, when the seat cushion is in the high position and the low position, the swivel mechanism cover overlaps with the plurality of side covers when viewed in a left-right direction.

[0063] In this design, even when the seat cushion is raised via the lifting mechanism, the swivel mechanism cover still overlaps with the side cover when viewed from the left and right, preventing any gap from forming between the seat cushion and the swivel mechanism cover. This design prevents foreign objects from entering vehicle seats with both swivel and lifting mechanisms.

[0064] The aforementioned vehicle seat may be configured such that the rotating mechanism includes a base component (41) and a rotating component (42) rotatably supported by the base component, and wherein the rotating mechanism cover includes an upper cover (201) disposed on the rotating component, and the upper cover overlaps with the plurality of side covers when viewed in the left-right direction when the seat cushion is in the high position and the low position.

[0065] In this design, even when the seat cushion is raised by the lifting mechanism, the upper cover still overlaps with the side cover when viewed from the left and right, resulting in no gap between the seat cushion and the upper cover.

[0066] The aforementioned vehicle seats can be configured such that when the seat cushion is in the high position and the low position, the upper end of each upper cover is positioned above the lower end of the corresponding side cover.

[0067] In this design, even if the seat cushion is raised by the lifting mechanism, no gap will be formed between the seat cushion and the upper cover.

[0068] The aforementioned vehicle seat can be configured such that the upper cover includes a plurality of upper cover upper walls (223A) extending in a lateral direction, and a plurality of upper cover extension walls (223C) extending upward from the plurality of upper cover upper walls, and when viewed from above, the plurality of side covers overlap with the plurality of upper cover upper walls, wherein when the seat cushion is in the high position and the low position, the upper end of each upper cover extension wall is positioned above the lower end of the corresponding side cover.

[0069] In this design, even if the seat cushion is raised by the lifting mechanism, no gap will be formed between the seat cushion and the upper cover.

[0070] The aforementioned vehicle seat can be configured such that, when viewed in a vertical direction, the lower ends of the plurality of side covers overlap with the upper cover, wherein, when the seat cushion is in the high position and the low position, the lower end of each side cover is positioned below the upper end of the corresponding upper cover.

[0071] In this design, even if the seat cushion is raised by the lifting mechanism, no gap will be formed between the seat cushion and the upper cover.

[0072] The aforementioned vehicle seat can be configured such that, when viewed in a vertical direction, the lower ends of the plurality of side covers overlap with the upper walls of the plurality of upper covers, wherein, when the seat cushion is in the high position and the low position, the lower ends of the plurality of side covers are positioned below the upper ends of the upper walls of the plurality of upper covers.

[0073] In this design, even if the seat cushion is raised by the lifting mechanism, no gap will be formed between the seat cushion and the upper cover.

[0074] The aforementioned vehicle seat can be configured such that the upper cover is attached to a plurality of upper cover mounts (225) of the rotating component, and the plurality of upper cover mounts are disposed inside the plurality of side covers about the rotation axis of the rotating mechanism.

[0075] In this configuration, the upper cover mounting is concealed by the side covers.

[0076] The aforementioned vehicle seat can be configured such that a front cover (240) is disposed between the front of the seat cushion and the upper cover, and the plurality of upper cover mounts are disposed behind the front cover.

[0077] In this configuration, the upper cover mounting is concealed by the front cover.

[0078] The aforementioned vehicle seats can be configured such that the plurality of upper cover extension walls are attached to the corresponding upper cover mounting members.

[0079] This structure enables the stable placement of the upper cover extension wall.

[0080] The aforementioned vehicle seat can be configured such that the swivel mechanism includes one or more separation-inhibiting members (170) disposed between the outer periphery of the base member and the outer periphery of the rotating member, and each separation-inhibiting member includes a lower hook (182) projecting upward from the base member and an upper hook (186) projecting downward from the rotating member and bent to face the lower hook from below through a gap, wherein the plurality of upper cover mounts are arranged radially outside the one or more separation-inhibiting members about the axis of rotation.

[0081] In this configuration, the upper cover can be fixed to the outer periphery of the rotating component.

[0082] The aforementioned vehicle seat can be configured such that the base component is supported on the floor via left and right sliding mechanisms (4), wherein the base component includes one or more lower supports (46) connected to the left and right sliding mechanisms, and a base plate (47) supported by the one or more lower supports, wherein the rotating component includes a rotating plate (56) rotatably supported by the base plate, and an upper support (57) connected to the rotating plate, wherein the lifting mechanism is connected to the upper support, wherein each of the respective sliding mechanisms includes a lower guide rail (36) connected to the floor, and an upper guide rail (37) slidably supported on the lower guide rail, wherein the rotating mechanism cover includes a lower cover (201) disposed on the base component, wherein the lower cover covers at least a portion of each lower support and at least a portion of each upper guide rail, and wherein the lower end position of the upper cover is disposed below the upper end position of the lower cover.

[0083] This design eliminates the gap between the upper and lower covers.

[0084] The aforementioned vehicle seat can be configured such that the lower end of the upper cover is formed in a circular shape centered on the axis of rotation, wherein the upper end of the lower cover is formed in a circular shape centered on the axis of rotation and is disposed radially inside the lower end of the upper cover.

[0085] This design allows the outer periphery of the upper and lower covers to be circular, ensuring that the shape of the upper and lower covers remains circular even when the rotating mechanism is rotated.

[0086] The aforementioned vehicle seat can be configured such that the seat body includes a seat back (8) disposed at the rear of the seat cushion via a tilting device (35), and a headrest (9) disposed at the top of the seat back, wherein the tilting device allows the user to freely adjust the tilt angle of the seat back relative to the seat cushion.

[0087] In this configuration, the seat body, which includes the seat cushion, seat back, headrest, and tilting mechanism, is rotatably supported by a rotating mechanism.

[0088] Another aspect of the invention provides a vehicle seat (1) comprising: a seat body (3) having a seat cushion (7); a swivel mechanism (2) disposed between a floor (5) and the seat cushion, rotatably supporting the seat cushion such that the seat cushion is rotatable about a rotation axis (A) extending in a vertical direction; and a swivel mechanism cover (200) disposed on the swivel mechanism, wherein the swivel mechanism includes a base member (41) and a rotating member (42) rotatably supported by the base member, wherein the swivel mechanism cover includes an upper cover (201) disposed on the base member, and wherein, when viewed radially from the rotation axis, the upper end of the lower cover and the lower end of the upper cover overlap each other.

[0089] In this design, the gap between the upper cover and the lower cover can be eliminated.

[0090] The aforementioned vehicle seat can be configured such that the lower cover includes a plurality of lower cover arcuate portions (204A, 205A, 206A), each lower cover arcuate portion extending in an arcuate shape centered on the axis of rotation and extending partially upward, wherein the upper cover includes a plurality of upper cover arcuate portions (221B, 222B, 223B), each upper cover arcuate portion extending in an arcuate shape centered on the axis of rotation and extending partially downward, and wherein each of the plurality of lower cover arcuate portions and the plurality of upper cover arcuate portions outlines a circular shape having the same outer diameter.

[0091] This design allows the outer periphery of the upper and lower covers to be circular, ensuring that the shape of the upper and lower covers remains circular even when the rotating mechanism is rotated.

[0092] The aforementioned vehicle seat may be configured such that one of the lower cover and the upper cover has a partition wall (230) disposed on its radially inner side, wherein, when viewed along the horizontal direction, the partition wall overlaps with the arcuate portions of the plurality of lower covers and the arcuate portions of the plurality of upper covers.

[0093] In this design, the partition wall eliminates the gap between the upper and lower covers.

[0094] The aforementioned vehicle seat can be configured such that the partition wall is formed as a cylindrical shape centered on the axis of rotation, and the outer diameter of the partition wall is smaller than the outer diameter of the circle with the arcuate shape of the plurality of lower cover arcuate portions.

[0095] In this configuration, the partition walls are concealed inside by an upper cover and a lower cover.

[0096] The aforementioned vehicle seats can be configured such that the partition walls are positioned to extend along the inner surface of the arcuate portions of the plurality of lower covers.

[0097] This design prevents the partition walls from shifting position.

[0098] The aforementioned vehicle seat may be configured such that the swivel mechanism includes one or more separation inhibition members (170) disposed between the outer periphery of the base member and the outer periphery of the rotating member, and each separation inhibition member includes a lower hook (182) projecting upward from the base member and an upper hook (186) projecting downward from the rotating member and bent to face the lower hook from below through a gap, wherein the one or more separation inhibition members are arranged radially inside the partition wall.

[0099] In this configuration, the separation suppression components can be concealed within the upper and lower covers.

[0100] The aforementioned vehicle seat can be configured such that a radially inwardly extending annular flange (231) is provided at the lower end of the partition wall, and a plurality of protrusions (234) capable of engaging with each upper hook are provided on the upper surface of the flange.

[0101] This design suppresses vertical displacement of the rotating component relative to the base component.

[0102] The aforementioned vehicle seat can be configured such that a bearing (63) having an annular shape centered on the axis of rotation is disposed between the base component and the rotating component, and the flange is disposed radially outward of the bearing.

[0103] In this configuration, the flange protrusion and the upper hook contact each other at a position radially outward of the bearing. This configuration can suppress vertical displacement of the rotating component relative to the base component at a position radially outward of the bearing.

[0104] The aforementioned vehicle seat can be configured such that the base component is supported on the floor via a left and right sliding mechanism (4), wherein the base component includes one or more lower supports (46) connected to the left and right sliding mechanism, and a base plate (47) supported by the one or more lower supports, wherein the lower cover includes a lower cover front portion (204) disposed in front of the base plate, a lower cover rear portion (205) disposed behind the base plate, and left and right lower cover side portions (206) disposed on the left and right sides of the base plate, and wherein each of the lower cover front portion and the lower cover rear portion is connected to the left and right lower cover side portions.

[0105] This design allows the lower cover to be positioned around the base plate after the rotating mechanism is formed.

[0106] The aforementioned vehicle seat can be configured such that the lower support is provided with a front lower cover mount (211), the front lower cover mount extending in a left-right direction in front of the lower support and connected to the lower support at its left and right ends, wherein the front portion of the lower cover is attached to the front lower cover mount.

[0107] In this configuration, the front part of the lower cover can be positioned in front of the lower support.

[0108] The aforementioned vehicle seat can be configured such that the front lower cover mount includes front and rear support members (212A, 213A) spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction and extending parallel to each other in the lateral direction, wherein each of the front and rear support members is capable of contacting the lower side of the front portion of the lower cover.

[0109] This design prevents the front of the lower cover from rotating.

[0110] The aforementioned vehicle seat can be configured such that the front lower cover mounting member includes: left and right connecting portions (212B) extending rearward from the left and right ends of the front and rear support members respectively to connect to the lower bracket; and left and right extension portions (214) extending outward from the left and right connecting portions, wherein the front portion of the lower cover is connected to the left and right extension portions on the left and right sides.

[0111] In this configuration, the front portion of the lower cover is attached to the front lower cover mount at multiple locations.

[0112] The aforementioned vehicle seat may be configured such that the front portion of the lower cover is connected to at least one of the front and rear support members.

[0113] This design improves the stability of the front portion of the lower cover relative to the front lower cover mount.

[0114] The aforementioned vehicle seat can be configured such that, when viewed from above, the lower left and right cover sides overlap with the corresponding sliding mechanisms on the upper left and right.

[0115] In this configuration, each of the lower cover sides can partially cover the corresponding sliding mechanism in the respective sliding mechanism.

[0116] Invention Effects

[0117] As a solution to the aforementioned task, one aspect of the present invention provides a vehicle seat (1) comprising: a seat body (3) having a seat cushion (7); and a rotating mechanism (2) disposed between a floor (5) and the seat cushion, rotatably supporting the seat cushion such that the seat cushion is rotatable about a rotation axis (A) extending in a vertical direction, wherein the rotating mechanism includes a base member (41) and a rotating member (42) rotatably supported by the base member and rotatable about the rotation axis, wherein the rotating mechanism includes a plurality of spacer members (171) and a plurality of biasing members (172) disposed between the outer periphery of the base member and the outer periphery of the rotating member, such that the plurality of spacer members (171) prevent the rotating member from approaching the base member, and such that the plurality of biasing members (172) push the rotating member toward the base member, and wherein the plurality of spacer members and the plurality of biasing members are arranged on an imaginary circle (C) centered on the rotation axis.

[0118] In this structure, multiple spacer members (171) and multiple biasing members (172) are arranged between the outer periphery of the base member and the outer periphery of the rotating member, maintaining the distance between the base member and the rotating member. This configuration suppresses tilting of the rotating member in a vehicle seat with a swivel mechanism. Furthermore, in this structure, the multiple spacer members and multiple biasing members are arranged on an imaginary circle (C) centered on the axis of rotation, which achieves balanced support of the rotating member relative to the base member and also achieves a compact arrangement of the spacer members and biasing members.

[0119] The aforementioned vehicle seat can be configured such that the base component includes a plurality of support brackets (176), and each of the plurality of support brackets includes one or more spacer members and one or more biasing members.

[0120] This design allows one or more spacer components and one or more bias components to be assembled into a single unit, thus facilitating assembly operations.

[0121] The aforementioned vehicle seat can be configured such that the swivel mechanism includes one or more separation inhibition members (170) disposed between the outer periphery of the base member and the outer periphery of the rotating member, and each separation inhibition member includes a lower hook (182) projecting upward from the edge of the support bracket, and an upper hook (186) projecting downward from the rotating member and bent to face the lower hook from below through the gap.

[0122] In this configuration, even in the event of a vehicle collision or similar situation and a significant force (load) is applied to the seat body, the separation inhibition component still inhibits the tilting of the rotating component relative to the base component.

[0123] The aforementioned vehicle seat can be configured such that the lower hook is positioned outside the imaginary circle, and the plurality of spacer members or the plurality of biasing members are positioned on a radial line extending from the axis of rotation to the lower hook.

[0124] This design achieves a compact arrangement of the spacer, biasing components, and separation suppression components.

[0125] The aforementioned vehicle seat can be configured such that each of the plurality of support brackets is provided with a biasing member disposed between two of the plurality of spacers.

[0126] In this configuration, the rotating component is pushed downward by the biasing component to contact the two rollers, which inhibits the tilting of the rotating component.

[0127] The aforementioned vehicle seat can be configured such that the base component is supported on the floor via left and right sliding mechanisms (4), wherein the base component includes one or more lower supports (46) connected to the left and right sliding mechanisms, and a base plate (47) supported by the one or more lower supports, wherein the rotating component includes a rotating plate (56) rotatably supported by the base plate, and an upper support (57) connected to the rotating plate, wherein the upper support is connected to the upper surface of the rotating plate and also connected to the seat body, wherein the plurality of spacer members and the plurality of biasing members are arranged between the lower supports and the upper supports, and wherein the rotating plate is disposed at a vertical position between the upper and lower ends of each support bracket.

[0128] This design allows for the compact manufacture of sliding and rotating mechanisms.

[0129] The aforementioned vehicle seat can be configured such that, when viewed from above, each of the plurality of support brackets overlaps with one of the left and right sliding mechanisms, and a portion of the rotating plate is positioned below the upper ends of the left and right sliding mechanisms.

[0130] This design allows for the compact manufacture of sliding and rotating mechanisms.

[0131] The aforementioned vehicle seat can be configured such that each of the plurality of biasing components includes: a locking tab (172A) that protrudes downward from the rotating component; a support post (172B) that protrudes upward from the base component; a contact tab (172C) supported on the support post such that the contact tab can move vertically and contact the locking tab from above; and a biasing member (172D) disposed between the support post and the contact tab to push the contact tab downward.

[0132] This design allows a rotating component that can rotate relative to a fixed component to be pushed toward the side of the fixed component.

[0133] The aforementioned vehicle seat can be configured such that each spacer component includes a roller (171B) rotatably supported by a corresponding support bracket, and is able to contact the rotating component at the roller.

[0134] This design reduces the frictional resistance between each of the spaced components and the rotating component as the rotating component rotates.

[0135] The aforementioned vehicle seat can be configured such that a portion of each of the plurality of spacer members is positioned between the upper end of the lower hook and the lower end of the upper hook.

[0136] This structure achieves a balanced arrangement of each spacer component and its corresponding separation and suppression component.

[0137] The aforementioned vehicle seat can be configured such that the seat body includes a seat back (8) disposed at the rear of the seat cushion via a tilting device (35), and a headrest (9) disposed at the top of the seat back, wherein the tilting device allows the user to freely adjust the tilt angle of the seat back relative to the seat cushion.

[0138] In this configuration, the seat body, which includes the seat cushion, seat back, headrest, and tilting mechanism, is rotatably supported by a rotating mechanism.

[0139] Another aspect of the invention provides a vehicle seat (1) comprising: a seat body (3) having a seat cushion (7); and a rotating mechanism (2) disposed between a floor (5) and the seat cushion, rotatably supporting the seat cushion such that the seat cushion is rotatable about a rotation axis (A) extending in a vertical direction, wherein the rotating mechanism includes a base component (41), a rotating component (42) rotatably supported by the base component and rotatable about the rotation axis, and a bearing (63) disposed between the base component and the rotating component, wherein the rotating component... The ring mechanism includes a plurality of spacer members (171) and a plurality of biasing members (172) disposed between the outer periphery of the base member and the outer periphery of the rotating member, such that the plurality of spacer members (171) prevent the rotating member from approaching the base member, and the plurality of biasing members (172) push the rotating member toward the base member, wherein the bearing is a thrust bearing extending annularly and centered on the axis of rotation, and the plurality of spacer members are arranged radially outward of the bearing about the axis of rotation.

[0140] In this configuration, spacers are arranged radially outward of the bearing, maintaining the distance between the outer periphery of the base component and the outer periphery of the rotating component, thereby suppressing tilting of the rotating component in a vehicle seat with a swivel mechanism. Furthermore, in this configuration, multiple spacers reduce the force (load) that can be applied to the bearing, preventing indentations from forming on the rotating and base components.

[0141] The aforementioned vehicle seat can be configured such that the swivel mechanism includes one or more separation-inhibiting members (170) disposed between the outer periphery of the base member and the outer periphery of the rotating member, and each separation-inhibiting member includes a lower hook (182) projecting upward from the base member and an upper hook (186) projecting downward from the rotating member and bent to face the lower hook from below through a gap, wherein each separation-inhibiting member is arranged radially outward of the corresponding spacer member about the axis of rotation.

[0142] In this design, even in the event of a vehicle collision or similar incident, and with significant forces (loads) applied to the seat body, the tilting of the rotating components relative to the base components is suppressed.

[0143] The aforementioned vehicle seat can be configured such that at least one of the plurality of spacer members and its corresponding lower hook are positioned on a radial line extending from the axis of rotation.

[0144] This design allows for a compact arrangement of the spacer components and their corresponding hooks.

[0145] The aforementioned vehicle seat can be configured such that the lower cover is attached to the peripheral edge of the base component, and the plurality of spacer members are disposed inside the lower cover, i.e., on one side of the axis of rotation.

[0146] In this design, the spacer components can be concealed by the lower cover.

[0147] Another aspect of the invention provides a vehicle seat (1) comprising: a seat body (3) having a seat cushion (7); and a swivel mechanism (2) disposed between a floor (5) and the seat cushion, rotatably supporting the seat cushion such that the seat cushion is rotatable about a rotation axis (A) extending in a vertical direction, wherein the swivel mechanism includes a base member (41) and a rotating member (42) rotatably supported by the base member and rotatable about the rotation axis, wherein the swivel mechanism includes a plurality of spacer members (171) and a plurality of biasing members (172) disposed between the outer periphery of the base member and the outer periphery of the rotating member. The plurality of spacers (171) prevent the rotating component from approaching the base component, and the plurality of biasing components (172) push the rotating component toward the base component. The plurality of spacers are disposed on the base component, each spacer including a support shaft (171A) extending radially outward from the axis of rotation, and a roller (171B) rotatably supported on the support shaft. Each roller has an outer peripheral surface formed as a tapered surface, the diameter of which increases radially outward from the axis of rotation. The rotating component has an inclined surface (188) that is radially inclined upward from the axis of rotation, and the plurality of rollers are in contact with the inclined surface.

[0148] In this configuration, multiple rollers can support both the vertical force (load) applied from the rotating component and the force (load) applied in the radial direction extending from the axis of rotation, which enables the multiple rollers to reduce the horizontal positional offset of the rotating component relative to the stationary component.

[0149] The aforementioned vehicle seat can be configured such that each of the plurality of support shafts is provided with a biasing member (172D) that pushes a corresponding roller radially inward toward the axis of rotation.

[0150] This design allows multiple rollers to contact the inclined surface.

[0151] The aforementioned vehicle seat can be configured such that multiple support brackets are mounted on the base component and support corresponding support shafts.

[0152] In this configuration, one or more rollers, one or more support shafts, and corresponding support brackets can be assembled into a single unit, thereby facilitating the assembly operation of mounting the rollers onto the base component.

[0153] The aforementioned vehicle seat can be configured such that each of the plurality of support brackets includes an inner wall (171C) and an outer wall (171D), the inner wall and the outer wall respectively supporting the inner end and the outer end of a corresponding support shaft, the inner and outer ends being arranged radially inward toward the axis of rotation and radially outward away from the axis of rotation, respectively.

[0154] This structure provides stable support for each support axis.

[0155] The aforementioned vehicle seat can be configured such that each of the plurality of biasing members is a helical spring and is disposed around the outer end side of the corresponding support shaft.

[0156] This design simplifies the manufacture of structures that allow the biasing components to be mounted to the corresponding support shafts.

[0157] The aforementioned vehicle seat can be configured such that each of the plurality of rollers has a recess (171F) at its radially outer end that is recessed inward toward the axis of rotation, wherein the end of each biasing member is received within the corresponding recess.

[0158] This design prevents the biasing component from shifting its horizontal position relative to the roller.

[0159] The aforementioned vehicle seat can be configured such that the upper end of the inner wall of the support bracket is positioned below the upper edge of the radially inner end of the corresponding roller, and the upper end of the outer wall of the support bracket is positioned below the upper edge of the radially outer end of the corresponding roller.

[0160] This design prevents the inner and outer walls from contacting the rotating parts.

[0161] The aforementioned vehicle seat can be configured such that a bearing (63) having an annular shape centered on the axis of rotation is disposed between the base component and the rotating component, and the plurality of rollers are disposed radially outside the bearing.

[0162] In this configuration, multiple rollers are positioned radially outside the bearing, maintaining the distance between the outer periphery of the base component and the outer periphery of the rotating component. This suppresses tilting of the rotating component in the vehicle seat.

[0163] The aforementioned vehicle seat can be configured such that the swivel mechanism includes one or more separation-inhibiting members (170) disposed between the outer periphery of the base member and the outer periphery of the rotating member, and each separation-inhibiting member includes a lower hook (182) projecting upward from the base member and an upper hook (186) projecting downward from the rotating member and bent to face the lower hook from below through a gap, wherein each separation-inhibiting member is arranged radially outward of the corresponding roller about the axis of rotation.

[0164] In this design, even in the event of a vehicle collision or similar incident and a significant force (load) is applied to the seat body, the tilting of the rotating components relative to the base components is suppressed.

[0165] The aforementioned vehicle seat can be configured such that each biasing component is positioned radially inside the corresponding separation suppression component about the axis of rotation.

[0166] This design allows for a compact arrangement of the biasing components.

[0167] As a solution to the aforementioned task, one aspect of the present invention provides a vehicle seat (1) comprising: a seat body (3) having a seat cushion (7); a swivel mechanism (2) disposed between a floor (5) and the seat cushion, rotatably supporting the seat cushion such that the seat cushion is rotatable about a rotation axis (A) extending in a vertical direction; a lifting mechanism (110) disposed between the swivel mechanism and the seat cushion, the lifting mechanism supporting the seat cushion such that the seat cushion is vertically movable about the swivel mechanism between a high position and a low position; a swivel mechanism cover (200) disposed on the swivel mechanism; and a plurality of side covers (21) disposed on the left and right sides of the seat cushion, wherein, when the seat cushion is in the high and low positions, the swivel mechanism cover overlaps with the plurality of side covers when viewed in a left-right direction.

[0168] In this design, even when the seat cushion is raised via the lifting mechanism, the swivel mechanism cover still overlaps with the side cover when viewed from the left and right, preventing any gap from forming between the seat cushion and the swivel mechanism cover. This design prevents foreign objects from entering vehicle seats with both swivel and lifting mechanisms.

[0169] The aforementioned vehicle seat may be configured such that the rotating mechanism includes a base component (41) and a rotating component (42) rotatably supported by the base component, and wherein the rotating mechanism cover includes an upper cover (201) disposed on the rotating component, and the upper cover overlaps with the plurality of side covers when viewed in the left-right direction when the seat cushion is in a high position and a low position.

[0170] In this design, even when the seat cushion is raised by the lifting mechanism, the upper cover still overlaps with the side cover when viewed from the left and right, resulting in no gap between the seat cushion and the upper cover.

[0171] The aforementioned vehicle seats can be configured such that when the seat cushion is in the high and low positions, the upper end of each upper cover is positioned above the lower end of the corresponding side cover.

[0172] In this design, even if the seat cushion is raised by the lifting mechanism, no gap will be formed between the seat cushion and the upper cover.

[0173] The aforementioned vehicle seat can be configured such that the upper cover includes a plurality of upper cover upper walls (223A) extending in a lateral direction, and a plurality of upper cover extension walls (223C) extending upward from the plurality of upper cover upper walls; and when viewed from above, the plurality of side covers overlap with the plurality of upper cover upper walls, wherein when the seat cushion is in the high position and the low position, the upper end of each upper cover extension wall is positioned above the lower end of the corresponding side cover.

[0174] In this design, even if the seat cushion is raised by the lifting mechanism, no gap will be formed between the seat cushion and the upper cover.

[0175] The aforementioned vehicle seat can be configured such that, when viewed in a vertical direction, the lower ends of the plurality of side covers overlap with the upper cover, wherein, when the seat cushion is in the high position and the low position, the lower end of each side cover is positioned below the upper end of the corresponding upper cover.

[0176] In this design, even if the seat cushion is raised by the lifting mechanism, no gap will be formed between the seat cushion and the upper cover.

[0177] The aforementioned vehicle seat can be configured such that, when viewed in a vertical direction, the lower ends of the plurality of side covers overlap with the upper walls of the plurality of upper covers, wherein, when the seat cushion is in the high position and the low position, the lower ends of the plurality of side covers are positioned below the upper ends of the upper walls of the plurality of upper covers.

[0178] In this design, even if the seat cushion is raised by the lifting mechanism, no gap will be formed between the seat cushion and the upper cover.

[0179] The aforementioned vehicle seat can be configured such that the upper cover is attached to a plurality of upper cover mounts (225) of the rotating component, and the plurality of upper cover mounts are disposed inside the plurality of side covers about the rotation axis of the rotating mechanism.

[0180] In this configuration, the upper cover mounting is concealed by the side covers.

[0181] The aforementioned vehicle seat can be configured such that a front cover (240) is disposed between the front of the seat cushion and the upper cover, and the plurality of upper cover mounts are disposed behind the front cover.

[0182] In this configuration, the upper cover mounting is concealed by the front cover.

[0183] The aforementioned vehicle seats can be configured such that the plurality of upper cover extension walls are attached to the corresponding upper cover mounting members.

[0184] This structure enables the stable placement of the upper cover extension wall.

[0185] The aforementioned vehicle seat can be configured such that the swivel mechanism includes one or more separation-inhibiting members (170) disposed between the outer periphery of the base member and the outer periphery of the rotating member, and each separation-inhibiting member includes a lower hook (182) projecting upward from the base member and an upper hook (186) projecting downward from the rotating member and bent to face the lower hook from below through a gap, wherein the plurality of upper cover mounts are arranged radially outside the one or more separation-inhibiting members about the axis of rotation.

[0186] In this configuration, the upper cover can be fixed to the outer periphery of the rotating component.

[0187] The aforementioned vehicle seat can be configured such that the base component is supported on the floor via left and right sliding mechanisms (4), wherein the base component includes one or more lower supports (46) connected to the left and right sliding mechanisms, and a base plate (47) supported by the one or more lower supports, wherein the rotating component includes a rotating plate (56) rotatably supported by the base plate, and an upper support (57) connected to the rotating plate, wherein the lifting mechanism is connected to the upper support, wherein each of the respective sliding mechanisms includes a lower guide rail (36) connected to the floor, and an upper guide rail (37) slidably supported on the lower guide rail, wherein the rotating mechanism cover includes a lower cover (201) disposed on the base component, wherein the lower cover covers at least a portion of each lower support and at least a portion of each upper guide rail, and wherein the lower end position of the upper cover is disposed below the upper end position of the lower cover.

[0188] This design eliminates the gap between the upper and lower covers.

[0189] The aforementioned vehicle seat can be configured such that the lower end of the upper cover is formed in a circular shape centered on the axis of rotation, wherein the upper end of the lower cover is formed in a circular shape centered on the axis of rotation and is disposed radially inside the lower end of the upper cover.

[0190] This design allows the outer periphery of the upper and lower covers to be circular, ensuring that the shape of the upper and lower covers remains circular even when the rotating mechanism is rotated.

[0191] The aforementioned vehicle seat can be configured such that the seat body includes a seat back (8) disposed at the rear of the seat cushion via a tilting device (35), and a headrest (9) disposed at the top of the seat back, wherein the tilting device allows the user to freely adjust the tilt angle of the seat back relative to the seat cushion.

[0192] In this configuration, the seat body, which includes the seat cushion, seat back, headrest, and tilting mechanism, is rotatably supported by a rotating mechanism.

[0193] Another aspect of the invention provides a vehicle seat (1) comprising: a seat body (3) having a seat cushion (7); a swivel mechanism (2) disposed between a floor (5) and the seat cushion, rotatably supporting the seat cushion such that the seat cushion is rotatable about a rotation axis (A) extending in a vertical direction; and a swivel mechanism cover (200) disposed on the swivel mechanism, wherein the swivel mechanism includes a base member (41) and a rotating member (42) rotatably supported by the base member, wherein the swivel mechanism cover includes an upper cover (201) disposed on the base member, and wherein, when viewed radially from the rotation axis, the upper end of the lower cover and the lower end of the upper cover overlap each other.

[0194] In this design, the gap between the upper cover and the lower cover can be eliminated.

[0195] The aforementioned vehicle seat can be configured such that the lower cover includes a plurality of lower cover arcuate portions (204A, 205A, 206A), each lower cover arcuate portion extending in an arcuate shape centered on the axis of rotation and extending partially upward, wherein the upper cover includes a plurality of upper cover arcuate portions (221B, 222B, 223B), each upper cover arcuate portion extending in an arcuate shape centered on the axis of rotation and extending partially downward, and wherein each of the plurality of lower cover arcuate portions and the plurality of upper cover arcuate portions outlines a circular shape having the same outer diameter.

[0196] This design allows the outer periphery of the upper and lower covers to be circular, ensuring that the shape of the upper and lower covers remains circular even when the rotating mechanism is rotated.

[0197] The aforementioned vehicle seat may be configured such that one of the lower cover and the upper cover has a partition wall (230) disposed on its radially inner side, wherein, when viewed along the horizontal direction, the partition wall overlaps with the arcuate portions of the plurality of lower covers and the arcuate portions of the plurality of upper covers.

[0198] In this design, the partition wall eliminates the gap between the upper and lower covers.

[0199] The aforementioned vehicle seat can be configured such that the partition wall is formed as a cylindrical shape centered on the axis of rotation, and the outer diameter of the partition wall is smaller than the outer diameter of the circle with the arcuate shape of the plurality of lower cover arcuate portions.

[0200] In this configuration, the partition walls are concealed inside by an upper cover and a lower cover.

[0201] The aforementioned vehicle seats can be configured such that the partition walls are positioned to extend along the inner surface of the arcuate portions of the plurality of lower covers.

[0202] This design prevents the partition walls from shifting position.

[0203] The aforementioned vehicle seat may be configured such that the swivel mechanism includes one or more separation inhibition members (170) disposed between the outer periphery of the base member and the outer periphery of the rotating member, and each separation inhibition member includes a lower hook (182) projecting upward from the base member and an upper hook (186) projecting downward from the rotating member and bent to face the lower hook from below through a gap, wherein the one or more separation inhibition members are arranged radially inside the partition wall.

[0204] In this configuration, the separation suppression components can be concealed within the upper and lower covers.

[0205] The aforementioned vehicle seat can be configured such that a radially inwardly extending annular flange (231) is provided at the lower end of the partition wall, and a plurality of protrusions (234) capable of engaging with each upper hook are provided on the upper surface of the flange.

[0206] This design suppresses vertical displacement of the rotating component relative to the base component.

[0207] The aforementioned vehicle seat can be configured such that a bearing (63) having an annular shape centered on the axis of rotation is disposed between the base component and the rotating component, and the flange is disposed radially outward of the bearing.

[0208] In this configuration, the flange protrusion and the upper hook contact each other at a radially outer position of the bearing. This configuration can suppress vertical displacement of the rotating component relative to the base component at the radially outer position of the bearing.

[0209] The aforementioned vehicle seat can be configured such that the base component is supported on the floor via a left and right sliding mechanism (4), wherein the base component includes one or more lower supports (46) connected to the left and right sliding mechanism, and a base plate (47) supported by the one or more lower supports, wherein the lower cover includes a lower cover front portion (204) disposed in front of the base plate, a lower cover rear portion (205) disposed behind the base plate, and left and right lower cover side portions (206) disposed on the left and right sides of the base plate, and wherein each of the lower cover front portion and the lower cover rear portion is connected to the left and right lower cover side portions.

[0210] This design allows the lower cover to be positioned around the base plate after the rotating mechanism is formed.

[0211] The aforementioned vehicle seat can be configured such that the lower support is provided with a front lower cover mount (211), the front lower cover mount extending in a left-right direction in front of the lower support and connected to the lower support at its left and right ends, wherein the front portion of the lower cover is attached to the front lower cover mount.

[0212] In this configuration, the front part of the lower cover can be positioned in front of the lower support.

[0213] The aforementioned vehicle seat can be configured such that the front lower cover mount includes front and rear support members (212A, 213A) spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction and extending parallel to each other in the lateral direction, wherein each of the front and rear support members is capable of contacting the lower side of the front portion of the lower cover.

[0214] This design prevents the front of the lower cover from rotating.

[0215] The aforementioned vehicle seat can be configured such that the front lower cover mounting member includes: left and right connecting portions (212B) extending rearward from the left and right ends of the front and rear support members respectively to connect to the lower bracket; and left and right extension portions (214) extending outward from the left and right connecting portions, wherein the front portion of the lower cover is connected to the left and right extension portions on the left and right sides.

[0216] In this configuration, the front portion of the lower cover is attached to the front lower cover mount at multiple locations.

[0217] The aforementioned vehicle seat may be configured such that the front portion of the lower cover is connected to at least one of the front and rear support members.

[0218] This design improves the stability of the front portion of the lower cover relative to the front lower cover mount.

[0219] The aforementioned vehicle seat can be configured such that, when viewed from above, the lower left and right cover sides overlap with the corresponding sliding mechanisms on the upper left and right.

[0220] In this configuration, each of the lower cover sides can partially cover the corresponding sliding mechanism in the respective sliding mechanism. Attached Figure Description

[0221] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a vehicle seat according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 2 is a perspective view of the frame structure of the vehicle seat; Figure 3 is a perspective view of the rotating mechanism, in which the upper support is not shown; Figure 4 is a perspective view of the rotating mechanism, in which the upper support and the rotating mechanism cover are not shown; Figure 5 is an exploded perspective view of the rotating mechanism; Figure 6 is a bottom view of the rotating mechanism; Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view of the rotating mechanism; Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view of the rotating mechanism; Figure 9 is a bottom view showing an important part of the rotating mechanism; Figure 10 is a perspective view showing important parts of the rotating mechanism; Figure 11 is a cross-sectional view of the spacer component; Figure 12 is a cross-sectional view of the biasing component and the separation suppression component; Figure 13 is a cross-sectional view of the rotating mechanism; Figure 14 is an exploded perspective view of the cover of the rotating mechanism; Figure 15 is a perspective view of the partition wall and flange; Figure 16 is a cross-sectional view of the partition wall and the flange; Figure 17 is a cross-sectional view of the rotating mechanism; Figure 18 is a cross-sectional view showing the positional relationship between the upper cover side and the corresponding side cover according to a modified example of an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 19 is a cross-sectional view showing the positional relationship between the upper cover side and the corresponding side cover according to another variation of an embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0222] Embodiments of the vehicle seat according to the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. The vehicle seat of the present invention can be used in known automobiles such as cars and minivans. Such vehicles may be autonomous vehicles.

[0223] As shown in Figure 1, the vehicle seat 1 includes a swivel mechanism 2. The vehicle seat 1 also includes a seat body 3 and left and right sliding mechanisms 4. The swivel mechanism 2 is mounted on the vehicle floor 5 via the left and right sliding mechanisms 4. The seat body 3 includes a seat cushion 7, a seat back 8, and a headrest 9. The seat cushion 7 supports the user's buttocks from below. The seat back 8 extends upward from the rear of the seat cushion 7, supporting the user's back from behind. The headrest 9 is located at the top of the seat back 8.

[0224] As shown in Figure 2, the seat cushion 7 includes a seat cushion frame 11 that serves as the structural frame of the seat cushion, a padding 12 supported by the seat cushion frame 11, and a cover 13 covering the surface of the padding 12. The seat cushion frame 11 includes left and right seat cushion side members 15 extending in a front-rear direction (i.e., longitudinal direction), a front member 16 extending in a left-right direction (i.e., lateral direction) and connected to the front ends of the left and right seat cushion side members 15, and a rear member 17 extending in a left-right direction and connected to the rear ends of the left and right seat cushion side members 15. A flexible support member 18 spans the front member 16 and the rear member 17 to support the user's buttocks. The support member 18 preferably includes a plurality of metal wires and a flexible plastic plate connected to each of the plurality of metal wires. As shown in Figure 1, side covers 21 are provided on the left and right sides of the seat cushion 7. The side cover 21 is supported by the seat cushion side member 15 and covers the ends of the padding 12 and the cover 13. The side cover 21 is preferably made of plastic material.

[0225] As shown in Figure 2, the seat back 8 includes a seat back frame 23 that serves as the structural frame of the seat back, a padding 24 supported by the seat back frame 23, and a cover 25 covering the surface of the padding 24. The seat back frame 23 includes: left and right seat back side members 27 extending in a vertical direction (i.e., the vertical direction); an upper member 28 extending in a horizontal direction and connected to the upper ends of the left and right seat back side members 27; a lower member 29 extending in a horizontal direction and connected to the lower ends of the left and right seat back side members 27; and a middle member 31 extending in a horizontal direction and connected to the left and right seat back side members 27 between the upper member 28 and the lower member 29. A flexible support member 34 spans the left and right seat back side members 27, the middle member 31, and the lower member 29 to support the user's back. The support member 34 may be formed of multiple metal wires. The lower ends of the left and right seat back side members 27 are connected to the rear ends of the corresponding seat cushion side members 15 via tilting devices 35. The tilting devices 35 allow the user to freely adjust the tilt angle of the seat back 8 relative to the seat cushion 7.

[0226] As shown in Figures 3, 4, 5, and 6, the left and right sliding mechanism 4 includes left and right lower guide rails 36 extending in the front-back direction, and left and right upper guide rails 37 respectively supported on the corresponding lower guide rails 36 for sliding movement in the front-back direction. Each of the lower guide rails 36 is connected to the floor 5 via a support leg 38. A sliding locking device (not shown) is provided between each lower guide rail 36 and the corresponding upper guide rail of each upper guide rail 37. The left and right sliding locking devices are interconnected by a sliding operating lever extending in the left-right direction. The sliding operating lever can be operated by the user to allow the upper guide rail 37 to slide relative to the lower guide rail 36.

[0227] As shown in Figures 1 to 6, the rotating mechanism 2 is disposed between the floor 5 and the seat cushion 7, and rotatably supports the seat cushion 7 so that the seat cushion 7 can rotate about a rotation axis (axis A) extending in the vertical direction. The rotating mechanism 2 includes a base component 41 and a rotating component 42 rotatably supported on the base component 41. The rotating mechanism 2 also includes a rotary actuator 43 and a rotary locking device 44.

[0228] A base component 41 is disposed on one side of the floor 5. In this embodiment, the base component 41 is disposed on the floor 5 via a sliding mechanism 4. The base component 41 includes a plurality of lower supports 46 and a base plate 47 supported by the plurality of lower supports 46, each lower support being connected to a left and a right upper guide rail 37. In this embodiment, the base component 41 includes front and rear lower supports 46. The front and rear lower supports 46 are formed in a mutually symmetrical structure in the front-rear direction. Each lower support 46 extends in the left-right direction and is connected to the left and right upper guide rails 37 at both ends. The front and rear lower supports 46 are spaced apart in the front-rear direction. The left and right ends of the front lower support 46 are connected to the front ends of the corresponding left and right upper guide rails 37. The left and right ends of the rear lower support 46 are connected to the rear ends of the corresponding left and right upper guide rails 37. The base plate 47 is formed in a circular shape, with its surface facing upwards and downwards. The base plate 47 includes a front portion connected to the middle of the front lower bracket 46 and a rear portion connected to the middle of the rear lower bracket 46. The base plate 47 is supported on the left and right upper guide rails 37 via the front and rear lower brackets 46.

[0229] Each of the base plate 47 and the front and rear lower supports 46 can be formed of a metal plate. Each lower support 46 can be formed as a groove shape with a downward opening in cross-section.

[0230] As shown in Figures 7 and 8, a first raised portion 51 is formed in the center of the base plate 47, protruding downwards. The first raised portion 51 is formed into a cylindrical shape with a bottom. The first raised portion 51 has a first bearing hole 52 at its center, which is circular in shape and extends through the first raised portion along its thickness direction. The first bearing hole 52 is centered on an axis A extending in the vertical direction. An annular edge wall 52A that protrudes upwards or downwards may be formed at the peripheral edge of the first bearing hole 52.

[0231] An annular fixing member 54 is attached to the outer periphery of the base plate 47. The fixing member 54 includes a cylindrical wall 54A extending upward along the outer periphery of the base plate 47, and an inner flange 54B extending radially inward from the upper end of the cylindrical wall 54A. The cylindrical wall 54A is welded to the outer periphery of the base plate 47. The inner flange 54B is formed annularly with its surface facing upward.

[0232] The rotating component 42 is rotatably supported on the base component 41. The rotating component 42 includes a rotating plate 56 rotatably supported on the upper surface of the base plate 47, and an upper bracket 57 connected to the rotating plate 56. Each of the rotating plate 56 and the upper bracket 57 is made of a metal plate.

[0233] The rotating plate 56 is formed as a circular plate with its surface facing upwards and downwards. The rotating plate 56 has a second bearing hole 61 at its center, the second bearing hole being circular in shape and extending through it along the thickness direction of the rotating plate. The second bearing hole 61 is centered on axis A.

[0234] The rotating plate 56 is supported on the upper surface of the base plate 47 via a bearing 63. The bearing 63 has an annular shape and is centered on axis A. The bearing 63 is disposed between the upper surface of the outer periphery of the base plate 47 and the lower surface of the outer periphery of the rotating plate 56. The bearing 63 can be a thrust bearing. In this embodiment, the bearing 63 is a ball bearing. The ball bearing includes a plurality of balls and an annular retainer that rotatably supports the plurality of balls. A first bearing groove 47A is formed on the upper surface of the outer periphery of the base plate 47 for receiving the lower part of the bearing 63. A second bearing groove 56A is formed on the lower surface of the outer periphery of the rotating plate 56 for receiving the upper part of the bearing 63. A space 65 is formed between the central portion of the rotating plate 56 and the first protrusion 51 of the base plate 47.

[0235] A fixing member 54 extends upward from the outer periphery of the rotating plate 56. More specifically, the inner flange 54B of the fixing member 54 extends upward from the outer periphery of the rotating plate 56. A protective member 67 is provided on the outer periphery of the upper surface of the rotating plate 56. The protective member 67 includes an annular sliding member 67A extending along the outer periphery of the upper surface of the rotating plate 56, and a plurality of claws 67B protruding downward from the sliding member 67A. The sliding member 67A has a plate-like cross-section. The plurality of claws 67B engage in a plurality of holes 56B formed in the rotating plate 56. The outer periphery of the rotating plate 56 slidably contacts the inner flange 54B via the sliding member 67A of the protective member 67. The protective member 67 is preferably formed of a plastic material having a lower frictional resistance than the rotating plate 56.

[0236] A vertically extending support cylinder member 87 is inserted into the first bearing hole 52 and the second bearing hole 61. The support cylinder member 87 is a cylindrical tube open at both ends. The support cylinder member 87 is made of metal. An outwardly raised annular rib 88 is formed on the outer circumference of the support cylinder member 87. A cylindrical bushing 91 is fitted onto the edge of the second bearing hole 61 of the rotating plate 56. The bushing 91 is supported by the portion of the support cylinder member 87 located above the annular rib 88. An anti-detachment ring 92 is provided above the bushing 91. The upper end of the support cylinder member 87 is enlarged to form an enlarged portion 93, wherein the enlarged portion 93 is formed by forging the upper end of the support cylinder member. The bushing 91 and the anti-detachment ring 92 are clamped between the annular rib 88 and the enlarged portion 93. With this configuration, the vertical position of the rotating plate 56 relative to the support cylinder member 87 is fixed. The support cylinder component 87 is rotatably supported in the second bearing hole 61 of the rotating plate 56 via the bushing 91.

[0237] The first bearing hole 52 of the base plate 47 is located below the annular rib 88. The portion of the support cylinder member 87 located below the annular rib 88 can be rotatably supported within the first bearing hole 52, or can be welded to the first bearing hole 52. The base plate 47 and the rotating plate 56 are mounted on axis A via the support cylinder member 87.

[0238] As shown in Figure 5, an upwardly raised annular protrusion 95 is formed on the radially inner side of the second bearing groove 56A of the rotating plate 56. The protrusion 95 is formed in an annular shape centered on axis A. A plurality of upwardly extending bolts 96 are provided on the protrusion 95. The bolts 96 can be double-ended bolts.

[0239] The upper support 57 is generally formed as a plate, with its surface facing upwards and downwards. When viewed from above, the upper support 57 preferably has a rectangular shape. A downwardly recessed recess 101 is formed at the center of the upper support 57. An opening 102 extending vertically through the recess 101 is formed at the center of the recess 101. A plurality of fastening holes 103 through which the plurality of bolts 96 extend are formed at the bottom of the recess 101. The rotating plate 56 and the upper support 57 are fastened together by nuts screwed onto the bolts 96. When viewed from above, the upper support 57 is larger than the rotating plate 56. The upper support 57 is vertically positioned forward and backwards from the support 46.

[0240] As shown in Figure 13, a lifting mechanism 110 is provided between the rotating mechanism 2 and the seat cushion 7. The lifting mechanism 110 is disposed between the upper support 57 and the left and right seat cushion side members 15. The lifting mechanism includes multiple links connecting the upper surface of the upper support 57 to the left and right seat cushion side members 15, and an electric motor for driving each link. For example, a sector gear can be provided on the link, and a pinion meshing with the sector gear can be connected to the output shaft of the electric motor via a reduction mechanism. Thus, the link rotates in response to the rotation of the electric motor, thereby raising and lowering the seat cushion 7. The lifting mechanism 110 supports the seat cushion 7 so that the seat cushion 7 can move vertically between a high position and a low position relative to the rotating mechanism 2.

[0241] As shown in Figure 7, a rotary actuator 43 is mounted on the lower side of the base plate 47. The rotary actuator 43 rotates the rotating plate 56 relative to the base plate 47. The rotary actuator 43 includes an electric motor 111 and a reduction mechanism 112. In this embodiment, the reduction mechanism 112 includes a pinion 115 connected to the output shaft 113 of the electric motor 111, and a gear 116 connected to the rotating plate 56. Both the pinion 115 and the gear 116 are spur gears. The gear 116 is a gear centered on axis A.

[0242] A rotary actuator 43 can be connected to the underside of a base plate 47 via a base. The output shaft 113 of the rotary actuator 43 extends upward from the reduction gear 112. The output shaft 113 extends into a space 65 through a through hole 119 formed in the base plate 47. A pinion 115, connected to the output shaft 113, is disposed within the space 65 and meshes with a gear 116. An electric motor 111 and a reduction gear 112 are disposed below the base plate 47.

[0243] As shown in Figures 8 and 9, a rotation locking device 44 is mounted on the underside of the base plate 47. The rotation locking device 44 selectively prevents the rotation of the rotating plate 56 relative to the base plate 47. The rotation locking device 44 includes a retainer 122 projecting downward from the bottom surface of the base plate 47, and a locking pawl 121 rotatably supported by the retainer 122, the locking pawl 121 extending through the base plate 47 to engage the rotating plate 56. The locking pawl 121 shifts between a locked position and an unlocked position, in which the locking pawl 121 engages with the rotating plate 56, and in the unlocked position, the locking pawl 121 disengages from the rotating plate 56.

[0244] The retainer 122 includes: a circumferential wall 123 extending circumferentially about an axis A, which is the axis of rotation of the rotating plate 56; and a pair of end walls 124 extending radially inward from both ends of the circumferential wall 123 toward the axis A. The retainer 122 also includes a base plate 125 extending along and connected to the lower side of the base plate 47. The base plate 125 extends along the lower side of the first protrusion 51. The circumferential wall 123 and the pair of end walls 124 protrude downward from the base plate 125. The pair of end walls 124 are connected to the base plate 125. The circumferential wall 123 may also be connected to the base plate 125. Each of the circumferential wall 123 and the pair of end walls 124 is formed by bending a metal plate. Each of the circumferential wall 123 and the pair of end walls 124 may also be formed by combining multiple metal plates.

[0245] A pair of openings 126 define and extend vertically through both the base plate 125 and the first protrusion 51. Each of the openings 126 is formed at the location of a corresponding end wall in each end wall 124. Each end wall 124 has an extension 124A that extends upward from the base plate 47 through the corresponding opening 126. The upper end of each extension 124A is positioned within the space 65. The upper end of each extension 124A extends above the gear 116.

[0246] The locking pawl 121 includes: a pair of arms 121A, each rotatably supported on a corresponding end wall of a respective end wall 124; a beam 121B connecting the top ends of the pair of arms 121A; and a pawl 121C projecting from the beam 121B. Each arm 121A is rotatably supported on a corresponding extension 124A for rotation about axis B (a second axis). Axis B forms the axis of rotation of the locking pawl 121. Axis B is positioned above the base plate 47 and may also be positioned above the gear 116. Each of the pair of arms 121A extends downward from the space 65 through a corresponding opening 126 to a point below the base plate 47. The pair of arms 121A extends along and slides in contact with the corresponding end wall 124. The beam 121B is positioned below the base plate 47 and extends horizontally.

[0247] The base plate 47 and the bottom plate 125 define an insertion hole 131 extending vertically through them. The insertion hole 131 extends circumferentially about axis A. The rotating plate 56 has a plurality of locking holes 132 formed therein, with locking claws 121 capable of selectively engaging with the locking holes 132. Each locking hole 132 extends circumferentially about axis A. The plurality of locking holes 132 are positioned at rotationally symmetrical locations about axis A. When the rotating plate 56 is in a predetermined rotational position relative to the base plate 47, the insertion hole 131 faces one of the individual locking holes 132. The locking claws 121 extend through the insertion hole 131 and engage the locking hole 132 in the locked position, and disengage from both the insertion hole 131 and the locking hole 132 in the unlocked position.

[0248] When the rotating plate 56 is in its initial position, the seat body 3 faces forward. As shown in FIG8, a pawl 121C extending through the insertion hole 131 and engaging one of the plurality of locking holes 132 restricts the rotation of the rotating plate 56 relative to the base plate 47.

[0249] As shown in Figure 9, a biasing member 134 disposed between the locking claw 121 and the retainer 122 pushes the locking claw 121 toward the locked position. In this embodiment, the biasing member 134 is a tension coil spring. The biasing member 134 can be connected to the arm 121A and the circumferential wall 123.

[0250] The locking pawl 121 is connected to the manual operating lever via a control cable 141. When the user pulls the manual operating lever, the control cable 141 pulls the locking pawl 121 from the locked position to the unlocked position, which allows the rotating component 42 to rotate relative to the base component 41. When the user stops operating the manual operating lever, the biasing force provided by the biasing member 134 moves the locking pawl 121 from the unlocked position to the locked position. In other words, the rotary locking device 44 moves between its locked and unlocked states based on the user's manual operation.

[0251] The rotary locking device 44 includes an unlocking actuator 151 that moves the locking pawl 121 from a locked position to an unlocked position. The unlocking actuator 151 includes an electric motor 152, a reduction gear 153 that reduces and transmits the driving force of the electric motor 152, and an arm 154 disposed on the output shaft of the reduction gear 153. The arm 154 engages with the locking pawl 121. A downwardly protruding contact portion 121G is provided on one end 121F of the arm of the locking pawl 121. The arm 154 presses against the contact portion 121G, thereby moving the locking pawl 121 from the locked position to the unlocked position.

[0252] As shown in Figures 4 and 10, a plurality of separation suppression components 170, a plurality of spacer components 171, and a plurality of biasing components 172 are disposed between the outer periphery of the base component 41 and the outer periphery of the rotating component 42. A combination of one or more separation suppression components 170, one or more spacer components 171, and one or more biasing components 172 forms a unit 175. In this embodiment, four units 175 are formed, each unit comprising one separation suppression component 170, two spacer components 171, and one biasing component 172. Each of the units 175 has the same configuration. The four units 175 are spaced apart along an imaginary circle centered on axis A. The four units 175 are positioned at the left and right ends of each of the front and rear lower supports 46.

[0253] Each unit 175 includes a support bracket 176 disposed on a base member 41. The support bracket 176 has a base plate 181 connected to the upper surface of a corresponding lower bracket 46. An upwardly projecting lower hook 182 is disposed on the radially outer edge of the base plate 181, the outer edge extending along a circular line centered on axis A. The upper portion of the lower hook 182 extends horizontally and then curves downward, i.e., the end of the lower hook 182 extends downward. The end of the lower hook 182 is spaced apart from the upper surface of the lower bracket 46. The lower hook 182 has a width along a circumferential direction centered on axis A.

[0254] As shown in Figures 4 and 12, each unit 175 has an upper unit 183 disposed on the lower side of the rotating component 42. The upper unit 183 has an upper plate 184 connected to the lower side of the upper support 57. A downwardly projecting upper hook 186 is disposed on the radial outer edge of the upper plate 184, the outer edge extending along a circular line centered on axis A. The lower part of the upper hook 186 extends horizontally first and then curves downward, that is, the end of the upper hook 186 extends upward. The end of the upper hook 186 is spaced apart from the lower surface of the upper support 57. The upper hook 186 has a width along the circumferential direction centered on axis A.

[0255] As shown in Figures 4, 12, and 13, when the rotating component 42 is in its initial position relative to the base component 41, the upper hook 186 faces the corresponding lower hook 182, with a gap in the vertical direction. The corresponding lower hook 182 and upper hook 186 constitute a separation suppression component 170. The separation suppression component 170 is disposed between the outer periphery of the base component 41 and the outer periphery of the rotating component 42, and it suppresses the upward movement of the outer periphery of the rotating component 42 relative to the outer periphery of the base component 41. Even in the event of a vehicle collision or similar situation and a significant force (load) is applied to the seat body 3, the separation suppression component 170 can suppress the tilting of the rotating component 42 relative to the base component 41.

[0256] As shown in Figure 11, each of the spacer members 171 is disposed on the base member 41 and includes a support shaft 171A extending radially about axis A, and a roller 171B rotatably supported on the support shaft 171A. Each spacer member 171 prevents the rotating member 42 from approaching the base member 41. The support bracket 176 has an inner wall 171C and an outer wall 171D, which respectively support the inner and outer ends of the corresponding support shaft 171A, which are respectively positioned radially inward toward axis A and radially outward away from axis A. This configuration achieves stable support for the support shaft 171A. The inner wall 171C and outer wall 171D of each unit can be integrally formed with the base plate 181. For example, the inner wall 171C can be formed by folding the radially inner edge of the base plate 181 upward. The outer wall 171D can be formed by cutting and folding multiple portions of the base plate 181 upward.

[0257] Each roller 171B has an outer peripheral surface formed by a tapered surface whose diameter increases radially outward from axis A. A biasing member 171E is provided on each support shaft 171A to push the corresponding roller 171B radially inward toward axis A. The biasing member 171E is a helical spring disposed on the outer circumference of the corresponding support shaft 171A. This allows the roller 171B to be attached to the biasing member 171E with a simple construction. Each biasing member 171E is a compressed helical spring disposed between the outer wall 171D and the corresponding roller 171B. Each roller 171B has a recess 171F at its radially outer end, recessed inward toward axis A. The end of the biasing member 171E is received within the corresponding recess 171F. This prevents the biasing member 171E from shifting position relative to the roller 171B. Each spacer 171 contacts the rotating component 42 at the corresponding roller 171B, which reduces the frictional resistance between the spacer 171 and the rotating component 42 when the rotating component 42 rotates.

[0258] The rotating component 42 has an inclined surface 188 that is radially outwardly inclined from axis A. The inclined surface 188 extends annularly around axis A. The inclined surface 188 is formed on the upper support 57. The inclined surface 188 may be disposed along the outer periphery of the recess 101. Each roller 171B contacts the inclined surface 188. The plurality of rollers 171B are capable of supporting both the vertical force (load) applied from the rotating component 42 and the radial force (load) applied in the radial direction extending from axis A. Therefore, the plurality of rollers 171B can reduce the horizontal positional offset of the rotating component 42 relative to the fixed component. Each biasing member 171E pushes the corresponding roller 171B radially inward toward axis A, which enables the roller 171B to make proper contact with the inclined surface 188.

[0259] The upper end of the inner wall 171C is positioned below the upper edge of the radially inner end of the corresponding roller 171B. The upper end of the outer wall 171D is positioned below the upper edge of the radially outer end of the corresponding roller 171B. This prevents the inner wall 171C and the outer wall 171D from contacting the rotating component 42.

[0260] As shown in Figure 12, each biasing component 172 includes: a locking piece 172A protruding downward from the rotating component 42; a support post 172B protruding upward from the base component 41; a contact piece 172C supported on the support post 172B, allowing the contact piece to move vertically and contact the locking piece 172A from above; and a biasing member 172D disposed between the support post 172B and the contact piece 172C to push the contact piece 172C downward. The biasing member 172 pushes the rotating component 42 toward the base component 41. The support post 172B extends upward from the base plate 181. The support post 172B pushes the contact piece downward. The biasing member 172 pushes the rotating component 42 toward the base component 41. The support post 172B extends upward from the base plate 181. The support post 172B can be formed as a cylindrical component. A stop 172E is disposed at the upper end of the support post. The contact piece 172C includes a cylindrical portion 172F and a disc-shaped flange portion 172G that projects radially outward from the upper end of the cylindrical portion 172F. The cylindrical portion 172F is disposed on the outer periphery of the support column 172B. The cylindrical portion 172F is supported such that it can move vertically relative to the support column 172B and can also rotate about the support column 172B.

[0261] The biasing member 172D is a compression coil spring. The biasing member 172D is arranged around the outer periphery of the support column 172B, between the stop block 172E and the flange portion 172G.

[0262] Locking tab 172A extends downward from upper plate 184, then bends toward axis A and extends radially inward. Locking tab 172A can be formed by bending upper plate 184 inward. The lower end of locking tab 172A is positioned below flange portion 172G.

[0263] The contact piece 172C, pushed downward by the biasing member 172D, contacts the lower end of the locking piece 172A from above at the flange portion 172G. As a result, the biasing member 172 pushes downward on the outer periphery of the rotating member 42. The biasing member 172 enables the rotating member 42 to properly contact the plurality of rollers 171B.

[0264] As shown in Figure 10, the four units 175 include multiple spacer members 171 and multiple biasing members 172, which are arranged on an imaginary circle C centered on axis A. The spacer members 171 and biasing members 172 are positioned between the outer periphery of the base member 41 and the outer periphery of the rotating member 42, maintaining the distance between them. This suppresses tilting of the rotating member 42 in the vehicle seat 1 with the swivel mechanism 2. Furthermore, in this configuration, the arrangement of the spacer members 171 and biasing members 172 on the imaginary circle C achieves balanced support for the rotating member 42 relative to the base member 41 and also allows for a compact arrangement of the spacer members 171 and biasing members 172.

[0265] The lower hook 182 is positioned outside the imaginary circle C. Preferably, the spacer 171 or biasing member 172 is positioned on a radial line extending from axis A to the lower hook 182. This achieves a compact arrangement of the spacer 171, biasing member 172, and separation suppression member 170. Preferably, at least one of the plurality of spacer members 171 and the corresponding lower hook 182 are positioned on a radial line centered on axis A.

[0266] The support bracket 176 enables the spacer 171, biasing component 172 and separation suppression component 170 to be assembled into a single unit, thereby facilitating the assembly of these components.

[0267] Each of the support brackets is provided with a single biasing member, which is positioned between two spacer members. In this configuration, the rotating member 42 is pushed downward by the biasing member to contact the two rollers 171B, which inhibits the tilting of the rotating member 42.

[0268] As shown in Figures 4 and 10, the plurality of spacer members 171 are arranged radially outward of the bearing 63 about axis A. The plurality of rollers 171B are preferably arranged radially outward of the bearing 63 about axis A. In this configuration, the spacer members 171, arranged radially outward of the bearing 63, maintain the distance between the outer periphery of the base member 41 and the outer periphery of the rotating member 42, thereby suppressing tilting of the rotating member 42 in the vehicle seat 1 with the swivel mechanism 2. Furthermore, in this configuration, the plurality of spacer members 171 reduce the force (load) that can be applied to the bearing 63, which prevents the bearing 63 from forming indentations on the rotating member 42 and the base member 41.

[0269] Each separation suppression component 170 is positioned radially outward of the corresponding spacer component 171 about axis A. Each separation suppression component 170 is positioned radially outward of the corresponding roller 171B about axis A. In this configuration, even in the event of a vehicle collision or similar situation, and when a significant force (load) is applied to the seat body 3, the tilting of the rotating component 42 relative to the base component 41 is suppressed.

[0270] Preferably, each biasing component 172 is positioned radially inside the corresponding separation suppression component 170 about axis A. This configuration achieves a compact arrangement of the biasing components 172.

[0271] The rotational position of the rotating component 42 when the seat cushion 7 faces forward of the vehicle is defined as the reference rotational position. When the rotating component 42 is in the reference rotational position, the lower hook 182 and upper hook 186 of the separation inhibiting component 170 of each unit 175 face each other with a vertical gap between them. Furthermore, the biasing component 172 of each unit 175 is in contact with the locking piece 172A. Even when the rotating component 42 rotates 90 degrees to the right (+90 degrees), 90 degrees to the left (-90 degrees), and 180 degrees to the left (-180 degrees), the lower hook 182 and upper hook 186 of each unit remain spaced apart and facing each other, and the biasing component 172 and locking piece 172A remain in contact. Regardless of the rotational position of the rotating component 42, the plurality of rollers 171B always contact the inclined surface 188 of the upper bracket 57.

[0272] As shown in Figures 3 and 14, the rotating mechanism 2 is provided with a rotating mechanism cover 200. The rotating mechanism cover 200 includes a lower cover 201 provided on the base component 41 and an upper cover 202 provided on the rotating component 42.

[0273] The lower cover 201 has a lower cover front portion 204 disposed in front of the base plate 47, a lower cover rear portion 205 disposed behind the base plate 47, and left and right lower cover side portions 206 disposed on the left and right sides of the base plate 47.

[0274] As shown in Figures 4 and 6, the front lower bracket 46 is provided with a front lower cover mount 211. The front lower cover mount 211 extends laterally and is positioned in front of the front lower bracket 46 and connected to the front lower bracket 46 at its left and right ends. The front lower cover mount 211 includes a first wire 212, a second wire 213, and left and right extensions 214. The first wire 212 includes a first support member 212A extending in a left-right direction, and left and right first side connecting portions 212B extending rearward from the left and right ends of the first support member 212A. The left and right first side connecting portions 212B are connected to the lower surface of the front lower bracket 46. The first support member 212A is positioned in front of the front lower bracket 46.

[0275] The second wire 213 includes a second support member 213A extending in a left-right direction, and left and right second side connecting portions 213B extending forward from the left and right ends of the second support member 213A. The left second side connecting portion 213B is connected to the left first side connecting portion 212B, and the right second side connecting portion 213B is connected to the right first side connecting portion 212B. The second support member 213A is disposed between the first support member 212A and the front edge of the front lower bracket 46. The first support member 212A and the second support member 213A are spaced apart in a front-rear direction and both extend parallel to each other in a left-right direction.

[0276] The left and right extensions 214 are connected to the corresponding left and right first side connecting portions 212B. The left and right extensions 214 extend laterally outward from the corresponding left and right first side connecting portions 212B. The left and right outer ends of the left and right extensions 214 can be connected to the front edge of the front lower bracket 46.

[0277] The rear lower bracket 46 is provided with a rear lower cover mounting member 217. The rear lower cover mounting member 217 and the front lower cover mounting member 211 are formed in a symmetrical structure in the front-rear direction. Similar to the front lower cover mounting member 211, the rear lower cover mounting member 217 has a first wire 217A, a second wire 217B, and left and right extensions 217C.

[0278] Left and right side lower cover mounts 219 are provided at the left and right ends of the front lower bracket 46 and the left and right ends of the rear lower bracket 46. The left and right side lower cover mounts 219 are formed in a mutually symmetrical structure in the left-right direction. Each side lower cover mount 219 is formed by a wire member. Each side lower cover mount 219 extends in the front-rear direction. Each side lower cover mount 219 has a plurality of protrusions 219A that protrude laterally inward and connect to the front lower bracket 46 and the rear lower bracket 46. Each of the left and right side lower cover mounts 219 has a front end, a rear end, and a middle portion that are laterally spaced outward from the corresponding side edges of the front and rear lower brackets 46.

[0279] As shown in Figures 3 and 14, the front portion 204 of the lower cover is located on the front lower cover mounting member 211. The front portion 204 of the lower cover is formed as a plate-like member with its surface facing upwards and downwards. The front portion 204 of the lower cover extends in a left-right direction. The front portion 204 of the lower cover includes a front lower cover arcuate portion 204A, which extends in an arcuate shape having a curvature centered on axis A and also extends upwards. The front lower cover arcuate portion 204A forms the front edge of the front portion 204 of the lower cover. The front lower cover arcuate portion 204A extends from the left end to the right end of the front portion 204 of the lower cover.

[0280] As shown in Figure 6, a plurality of downwardly projecting reinforcing ribs 204B are formed on the lower surface of the front portion 204 of the lower cover. The first support member 212A and the second support member 213A contact the lower surface of the front portion 204 of the lower cover via the plurality of reinforcing ribs 204B. In other embodiments, the first support member 212A and the second support member 213A may directly contact the lower surface of the front portion 204 of the lower cover. The front portion 204 of the lower cover is supported by the first support member 212A and the second support member 213A, which inhibits rotation of the front portion 204 of the lower cover.

[0281] The left and right ends of the lower cover front portion 204 are fastened to the corresponding left and right extensions 214 using fastening members such as screws. Therefore, the lower cover front portion 204 is attached to the front lower cover mount 211 at multiple locations. Multiple front engagement claws 204C are provided on the underside of the lower cover front portion 204 to engage the second support member 213A. This feature enhances the stability of the lower cover front portion 204 relative to the front lower cover mount 211. In this way, the lower cover front portion 204 is positioned in front of the lower bracket 46.

[0282] The rear portion 205 and the front portion 204 of the lower cover are symmetrically configured in the front-rear direction. The rear portion 205 of the lower cover has a rear lower cover arcuate portion 205A. The structure in which the rear portion 205 of the lower cover is attached to the rear lower cover mounting member 217 is similar to the structure in which the front portion 204 of the lower cover is attached to the front lower cover mounting member 211.

[0283] As shown in Figures 3 and 14, the left and right lower cover sides 206 are configured to be symmetrical in the left-right direction. Each lower cover side 206 is formed as a plate-like member with its surface facing upwards and downwards. Each lower cover side 206 extends in the front-rear direction. Each lower cover side 206 includes a corresponding side lower cover arcuate portion 206A, which extends in an arcuate shape having a curvature centered on axis A and also extends upwards. Each of the left and right lower cover sides 206 extends from the front end to the rear end of the corresponding lower cover side 206.

[0284] Each lower cover side portion 206 includes a flat plate portion 206B at its front and rear ends, having surfaces facing upwards and downwards respectively. The upper and lower flat plate portions 206B are positioned radially outwards about the axis A of the corresponding lower cover arcuate portion 206A.

[0285] The lower cover side portion 206 is positioned above the side edges of the front and rear lower brackets 46, the left and right upper guide rails 37, and the side lower cover mounting member 219. The front end of the lower cover side portion 206 is connected to the corresponding front extension 214 using fasteners such as screws, and the rear end of the lower cover side portion 206 is connected to the corresponding rear extension 214 using fasteners such as screws.

[0286] A plurality of engaging claws 206C are formed on each of the lower surfaces of each of the lower cover sides 206 to engage the corresponding lower cover mounting member 219. When viewed from above, the left and right lower cover sides 206 overlap with the corresponding left and right lower guide rails 36. Each lower cover side 206 covers a portion of the corresponding lower guide rail 36. The left and right upper guide rails 37 are positioned below the left and right lower cover sides 206.

[0287] The front portion 204 and rear portion 205 of the lower cover are connected to the left and right lower cover sides 206. The front end of the lower cover side 206 and the side end of the lower cover front portion 204 are preferably fastened together to the corresponding front extension 214. The rear end of the lower cover side 206 and the side end of the lower cover rear portion 205 are preferably fastened together to the corresponding rear extension 214. Thus, the lower cover front portion 204 and lower cover rear portion 205 are arranged in a ring around the left and right lower cover sides 206, centered on axis A. The arcuate portion 204A of the front lower cover, the arcuate portion 205A of the rear lower cover, and the arcuate portions 206A of the left and right lower cover together form a cylindrical surface centered on axis A.

[0288] The front part 204, the rear part 205, and the left and right sides 206 of the lower cover together enable the lower cover 201 to be positioned around the base plate 47 after the rotating mechanism 2 is formed.

[0289] As shown in Figures 3 and 14, the upper cover 202 includes a front portion 221 of the upper cover disposed in front of the bracket 57, a rear portion 222 of the upper cover disposed behind the upper bracket 57, and left and right upper cover side portions 223 disposed on the left and right sides of the upper bracket 57.

[0290] As shown in Figure 5, an upwardly extending edge wall 57A is provided on the edge of the upper bracket 57. The edge wall 57A extends along the outer periphery of the upper bracket 57. Upper cover mounts 225 for the front, rear, left, and right sides are connected to the edge wall 57A. The front upper cover mount 225 is connected to the front edge of the upper bracket 57. The rear upper cover mount 225 is connected to the rear edge of the upper bracket 57. The left upper cover mount 225 is connected to the left edge of the upper bracket 57. The right upper cover mount 225 is connected to the right edge of the upper bracket 57. Each upper cover mount 225 includes a vertically extending vertical wall portion 225A and a transverse wall portion 225B extending radially outward from the lower end of the vertical wall portion 225A about axis A. The vertical wall portion 225A and the transverse wall portion 225B of each upper cover mount extend along the edge wall 57A.

[0291] As shown in Figures 3 and 14, the front portion 221 of the upper cover has a front upper cover upper wall 221A extending in a transverse (horizontal) direction. The front upper cover upper wall 221A is formed in a plate shape, with its surface facing upwards and downwards. The front upper cover upper wall 221A extends in a left-right direction. The front edge of the front upper cover upper wall 221A is formed into an arcuate shape with a curvature centered on axis A. A front upper cover arcuate portion 221B is provided on the front edge of the front upper cover upper wall 221A, which extends downwards in an arcuate shape with a curvature centered on axis A. The rear edge of the front upper cover upper wall 221A extends in a left-right direction. An upwardly extending front upper cover extension wall 221C is provided on the rear edge of the front upper cover upper wall 221A. The front upper cover extension wall 221C is fastened to the vertical wall portion 225A of the front upper cover mounting member 225 using fastening members such as screws. The upper wall 221A of the front upper cover is supported on the upper surface of the transverse wall portion 225B of the front upper cover mounting member 225.

[0292] The rear portion 222 and the front portion 221 of the upper cover are symmetrical in the front-rear direction. The rear portion 222 includes a rear upper cover upper wall 222A, a rear upper cover arcuate portion 222B, and a rear upper cover extension wall 222C. The rear upper cover extension wall 222C is fastened to the vertical wall portion 225A of the rear upper cover mounting member 225 by fastening members such as screws. The rear upper cover upper wall 222A is supported on the upper surface of the transverse wall portion 225B of the rear upper cover mounting member 225.

[0293] Each of the left and right upper cover sides 223 has an upper cover wall 223A extending in a transverse (horizontal) direction. The upper cover wall 223A is formed as a plate-like member, having surfaces facing upwards and downwards. The upper cover wall 223A extends in a front-rear direction. Each of the left and right outer edges of each upper cover wall 223A is formed with an arcuate shape curved around axis A. Left and right upper cover arcuate portions 223B are provided on the left and right outer edges of the corresponding upper cover walls 223A, extending downwards in an arcuate shape curved around axis A. Each of the left and right inner edges of each upper cover wall 223A extends in a left-right direction. An upwardly extending upper cover extension wall 223C is provided on the left and right inner edges of the corresponding upper cover wall 223A. Each of the side upper cover extension walls 223C of the left and right upper cover sides 223 is fastened to the vertical wall portion 225A of the corresponding upper cover mount 225 using fastening members such as screws. Each of the side upper cover extension walls 223C of the left and right upper cover sides 223 is supported on the upper surface of the transverse wall portion 225B of the corresponding upper cover mount 225.

[0294] The front portion 221 and the rear portion 222 of the upper cover are each connected to the left and right upper cover sides 223. The front ends of the left and right upper cover sides 223 are connected to the left and right ends of the front portion 221 of the upper cover. The rear ends of the left and right upper cover sides 223 are connected to the left and right ends of the rear portion 222 of the upper cover. Thus, the front portion 221, the rear portion 222, and the left and right upper cover sides 223 are arranged in a ring around axis A. The arcuate portion 221B of the front upper cover, the arcuate portion 222B of the rear upper cover, and the arcuate portions 223B of the left and right upper covers together form a cylindrical surface centered on axis A.

[0295] The front lower cover arc portion 204A, the rear lower cover arc portion 205A, the left / right lower cover arc portion 206A, the front upper cover arc portion 221B, the rear upper cover arc portion 222B, and the left / right upper cover arc portion 223B all have the same diameter arc shape. The outer peripheral edges of the upper cover 202 and the lower cover 201 are circular. This ensures that even if the rotating ring mechanism 2 rotates, the outer shape of the upper cover 202 and the lower cover 201 remains circular.

[0296] The lower edge of the upper cover 202 is formed as a circle centered on axis A. The upper edge of the lower cover 201 is formed as a circle centered on axis A and is positioned inside the lower edge of the upper cover 202. This allows the outer peripheral edges of both the upper cover 202 and the lower cover 201 to be circular.

[0297] As shown in Figures 13, 15, 16, and 17, a partition wall 230 is provided on the inner side of one of the lower cover 201 and the upper cover 202. When viewed horizontally, the partition wall 230 overlaps with each of the arcuate portions 204A, 205A, 206A of the lower cover and the arcuate portions 221B, 222B, 223B of the upper cover. The partition wall 230 eliminates the gap between the upper cover 202 and the lower cover 201. In this embodiment, the lower cover 201 is provided with the partition wall 230. The partition wall 230 is part of the lower cover 201 and forms the upper end of the lower cover 201. Therefore, when viewed radially from axis A, the upper end of the lower cover 201 overlaps with the lower end of the upper cover 202.

[0298] The partition wall 230 is formed as a cylindrical shape centered on axis A, and the outer diameter of the partition wall 230 is smaller than the outer diameter of the circle with the arcuate shape of the lower cover. As a result, the partition wall 230 is disposed on the inner side of each of the arcuate portions 204A, 205A, and 206A of the lower cover. The partition wall 230 is concealed internally by the upper cover 202 and the lower cover 201. The partition wall 230 is arranged to extend along the inner surface of the arcuate portions 204A, 205A, and 206A of the lower cover, which prevents the partition wall 230 from shifting position.

[0299] The plurality of separation suppression components 170 are arranged radially inside the partition wall 230. Therefore, each separation suppression component 170 is concealed internally by the upper cover 202 and the lower cover 201. The plurality of units 175 are disposed radially inside the partition wall 230. The plurality of spacer components 171 are disposed radially inside the lower cover 201, facing axis A.

[0300] A radially inwardly extending annular flange 231 is provided at the lower end of the partition wall 230. A plurality of reinforcing ribs 232 extend from the partition wall 230 to the flange 231 at the boundary between the partition wall 230 and the flange 231. Each reinforcing rib 232 is plate-shaped and extends radially inward toward the central axis A.

[0301] A plurality of protrusions 234 are provided on the upper surface of the flange 231, which can engage with the plurality of upper hooks 186. When the rotating component 42 is in the reference rotation position, each protrusion 234 engages from below the lower end of the corresponding upper hook 186. This suppresses vertical displacement of the rotating component 42 relative to the base component 41.

[0302] Flange 231 is positioned radially outward of bearing 63. As a result, the protrusion 234 of flange 231 and upper hook 186 contact each other at the radially outward position of bearing 63. This inhibits vertical displacement of rotating component 42 relative to base component 41 at the radially outward position of bearing 63.

[0303] A rotating plate 56 is positioned between the upper and lower ends of each support bracket 176. This configuration allows the rotating plate 56 to be placed closer to the base plate 47, enabling the swivel mechanism 2 to be manufactured compactly. When viewed from above, each support bracket 176 overlaps with one of the left and right lower guide rails 36. In some cases, the rotating plate 56 may be partially positioned below the upper ends of the left and right lower guide rails 36. These features allow for the compact manufacture of the sliding mechanism 4 and the swivel mechanism 2.

[0304] Each spacer 171 can be partially positioned between the upper end of the corresponding lower hook 182 and the lower end of the corresponding upper hook 186. This configuration achieves a balanced arrangement of the spacer 171 and the separation suppression member 170.

[0305] The partition wall 230 and the flange 231 can be formed by combining multiple parts that are divided along the circumferential direction. This makes it possible to attach the partition wall 230 and the flange 231 to the rotating mechanism 2 after assembly.

[0306] As shown in Figure 17, when the seat cushion 7 is in the high and low positions, the upper cover 202 of the rotating mechanism cover 200 overlaps with the side cover 21 when viewed in the left-right direction. Specifically, when the seat cushion 7 is in the high and low positions, the upper end of the upper cover 202 is positioned above the lower end of the side cover 21. More specifically, when the seat cushion 7 is in the high and low positions, the upper end of the side upper cover extension wall 223C of each of the left and right upper cover sides 223 is positioned above the lower end of the corresponding side cover 21. Furthermore, when viewed from above, each side cover 21 overlaps with the side upper cover upper wall 223A of the corresponding upper cover side in the left and right upper cover sides 223. With these features, even when the lifting mechanism 110 raises the seat cushion 7, the rotating mechanism cover 200 still overlaps with the side cover 21 when viewed in the left-right direction. As a result, no gap is formed between the seat cushion 7 and the rotating mechanism cover 200. This design prevents foreign objects from entering the vehicle seat 1, which has the rotating mechanism 2 and the lifting mechanism 110.

[0307] The left and right upper cover mounting members 225 are positioned inside the left and right cover 21 about axis A of the rotating mechanism 2. With this configuration, the left and right upper cover mounting members 225 are hidden by the left and right cover 21.

[0308] A front cover 240 is provided between the front of the seat cushion 7 and the upper cover 202. Left and right upper cover mounts 225 are positioned behind the front cover 240. With this configuration, the upper cover mounts 225 are concealed behind the front cover 240. The front cover 240 can be attached to the seat cushion 7 or the upper support 57. The front cover 240 extends in the left-right direction and has a length in the vertical direction.

[0309] The upper cover mounting member 225 is positioned radially outside the separation suppression member 170 about axis A. This configuration allows the upper cover 202 to be secured to the outer periphery of the rotating member 42.

[0310] When viewed vertically, the lower end of the side cover 21 overlaps with the upper cover side portion 223. When the seat cushion 7 is in the high and low positions, the lower end of each side cover 21 is positioned below the upper end of the corresponding upper cover side portion 223. Specifically, when viewed vertically, the lower end of each side cover 21 overlaps with the upper wall 223A of the corresponding upper side cover. When the seat cushion 7 is in the high and low positions, the lower end of each side cover 21 is positioned below the upper end of the corresponding upper cover extension wall 223C.

[0311] The present invention has been described through specific embodiments, but is not limited to these embodiments and can be implemented in various modifications. For example, bearing 63 is not limited to ball bearings; any of a variety of known bearings can be used. For example, bearing 63 can be a roller bearing.

[0312] The relative positions of the side covers 21 with respect to the rotating mechanism 2 and the sliding mechanism 4 can be appropriately modified. For example, when viewed from above, the outer ends of each of the left and right covers 21 can be positioned inside the outer ends of the corresponding lower guide rails 36 in the left and right lower guide rails 36. Furthermore, when viewed from above, the outer ends of the left and right covers 21 can be positioned inside the left and right outer ends of the upper cover 202. In this case, the upper end of the upper cover 202 can be positioned to cover the lower ends of each side cover 21. The left and right outer ends of the upper cover 202 and the left and right outer ends of the lower cover 201 can be positioned inside the corresponding outer ends of the left and right lower guide rails 36.

[0313] As shown in Figure 18, the lower end of each side cover 21 can be positioned laterally inside the arcuate portion 223B of the corresponding upper cover side 223. Furthermore, the lower end of each side cover 21 can be positioned vertically facing the upper wall 223A of the corresponding upper cover. In this case, the upper end of each arcuate portion 223 of the upper cover can be provided with a protruding outer wall 223D. The upper end of the outer wall 223D can be positioned above the lower end of the corresponding side cover 21. When viewed in the lateral direction, the outer wall 223D fills the gap between the corresponding side cover 21 and the upper cover side 223.

[0314] As shown in Figure 19, the lower end of each side cover 21 can be positioned above the arcuate portion 223B of the corresponding upper cover side 223. In this case, a downwardly recessed recess 223E can be formed at the upper end of the arcuate portion 223B of the upper cover. Furthermore, each side cover 21 can have a downwardly extending extension wall 21A at its lower end. The lower end of the extension wall 21A can protrude into the recess 223E and be positioned below the upper wall 223A of the corresponding upper cover. When viewed along the left-right direction, the extension wall 21A of each side cover 21 fills the gap between the side cover 21 and the corresponding upper cover side 223.

[0315] In some embodiments, a vehicle with vehicle seats may have a recess on its side facing the vehicle seats, formed in the vehicle's center console or door trim panel, wherein the recess is formed to avoid contact with the lateral outer ends of the upper cover 202 and the lower cover 201. In this case, the lateral outer ends of the upper cover 202 and the lower cover 201 may partially protrude into the recess. The recess may extend in a longitudinal direction.

[0316] The partition wall 230 can be divided into multiple components and arranged discontinuously along a circular path centered on axis A. In other words, the shape of the partition wall 230 is not limited to a ring shape.

[0317] Glossary 1 Vehicle Seat 2 Rotary Mechanism 3 Seats 7 Seat Cushions 21 side covers 41 Base Components 42 Rotating Components 46 Lower support 47 base plate 63 bearing 110 lifting mechanism 170 Separation Suppression Component 171 Spacer Components Unit 175 176 support bracket 182 lower hook Unit 183 186 hook 188 Inclined Surface 200 rpm ring mechanism cover 201 Lower Cover 202 Top Cover 204 lower cover front 204A front lower cover arc section 205 Lower Cover Rear 206 Lower Cover Side 211 front lower cover mounting piece 217 rear lower cover mounting piece 219 Side Lower Cover Mount 221 upper cover front 222 upper cover rear 223 Upper Cover Side 225 Top Cover Mount 230 partition wall 231 flange 240 front cover Axis A C. Imaginary circle.

Claims

1. A vehicle seat, comprising: The main body of the seat, which includes a seat cushion; as well as A rotating mechanism, disposed between the floor and the seat cushion, rotatably supports the seat cushion so that the seat cushion can rotate about a rotation axis extending in the vertical direction. The rotating mechanism includes a base component and a rotating component that is rotatably supported by the base component and rotatable about the rotation axis. The rotating mechanism includes multiple spacer components and multiple biasing components. These spacer components and biasing components are disposed between the outer periphery of the base component and the outer periphery of the rotating component. The spacer components prevent the rotating component from approaching the base component, while the biasing components push the rotating component towards the base component. The plurality of spacer components and the plurality of bias components are arranged on an imaginary circle centered on the axis of rotation.

2. The vehicle seat according to claim 1, wherein, The base component includes multiple support brackets, and Each of the plurality of support brackets includes one or more spacer components and one or more biasing components.

3. The vehicle seat according to claim 2, wherein, The rotating mechanism includes one or more separation suppression components disposed between the outer periphery of the base component and the outer periphery of the rotating component, and Each separation suppression component includes a lower hook that protrudes upward from the edge of the support bracket, and an upper hook that protrudes downward from the rotating component and is bent to face the lower hook from below through the gap.

4. The vehicle seat according to claim 3, wherein, The lower hook is positioned outside the imaginary circle, and The plurality of spacer components or the plurality of biasing components are arranged on a radial line extending from the rotation axis to the lower hook.

5. The vehicle seat according to claim 4, wherein, Each of the plurality of support brackets is provided with one of the plurality of biasing components, which is positioned between two of the plurality of spacers.

6. The vehicle seat according to claim 2, wherein, The base component is supported on the floor via left and right sliding mechanisms. The base component includes one or more lower supports connected to the left and right sliding mechanisms, and a base plate supported by the one or more lower supports. The rotating component includes a rotating plate rotatably supported by the base plate, and an upper bracket connected to the rotating plate. The upper bracket is connected to the upper surface of the rotating plate and also to the seat body. The plurality of spacer components and the plurality of biasing components are arranged between the lower support and the upper support, and The rotating plate is positioned vertically between the upper and lower ends of each support bracket.

7. The vehicle seat according to claim 6, wherein, When viewed from above, each of the plurality of support brackets overlaps with one of the left and right sliding mechanisms, and A portion of the rotating plate is positioned below the upper end of the left and right sliding mechanisms.

8. The vehicle seat according to claim 1, wherein, Each of the plurality of biasing components includes: a locking tab that protrudes downward from the rotating component; a support post that protrudes upward from the base component; a contact tab supported on the support post such that the contact tab can move vertically and contact the locking tab from above; and a biasing member disposed between the support post and the contact tab to push the contact tab downward.

9. The vehicle seat according to claim 2, wherein, Each spacer includes a roller rotatably supported by a corresponding support bracket, and is able to contact the rotating component at the roller.

10. The vehicle seat according to claim 3, wherein, A portion of each of the plurality of spacer components is positioned vertically between the upper end of the lower hook and the lower end of the upper hook.

11. The vehicle seat according to claim 1, wherein, The seat body includes a seat backrest disposed at the rear of the seat cushion via a tilting device, and a headrest disposed at the top of the seat backrest. The tilting device allows the user to freely adjust the tilt angle of the seat back relative to the seat cushion.

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