Manual zero-gravity framework

Abstract

The invention discloses a manual zero-gravity skeleton which comprises a lower sliding rail fixed to a vehicle body, an upper sliding rail in sliding fit with the lower sliding rail, a seat frame skeleton fixedly connected with the upper sliding rail, a backrest skeleton and an angle adjuster connecting the seat frame skeleton and the backrest skeleton and further comprises a linkage unlocking mechanism. The linkage unlocking mechanism comprises a zero-gravity unlocking handle assembly, a seat cushion unlocking inhaul cable and a backrest unlocking inhaul cable. A pure mechanical structure is used, dependence on a vehicle electrical system is avoided, circuit, electromagnetism and software fault risks are avoided, parts are durable and stable and can still be adjusted during collision outage, and passive safety is improved; the seat cushion and the backrest are synchronously unlocked through single operation through the linkage unlocking mechanism, posture switching is uniform and stable through gas spring damping, and efficiency and comfort are both considered; functional decoupling is achieved through the independent backrest angle adjusting handle, the angle of the backrest can be adjusted independently, the device is suitable for being used in multiple scenes, and practicability and flexibility are improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention mainly relates to the technical field, specifically to a manual zero-gravity skeleton. Background Technology

[0002] To improve passenger comfort, the concept of zero-gravity seats has emerged. The principle behind this is to adjust the relative angle between the seat cushion and backrest, creating an angle of approximately 128° between the occupant's torso and thighs. This simulates the natural posture of the human body in a weightless environment, thus distributing body pressure evenly and effectively reducing the load on the spine and muscles.

[0003] Currently, car seats that achieve zero-gravity functionality primarily rely on electrically adjustable systems. These systems typically include multiple drive motors (for controlling seat cushion lifting, backrest angle, etc.), a complex wiring harness system, and an electronic control unit (ECU). The user issues commands via a button, and the ECU controls the motors to work in tandem according to a preset program, driving the seat to change position.

[0004] However, this electric solution is complex, with numerous electrical components such as motors, wiring harnesses, and ECUs, resulting in high manufacturing and maintenance costs. Secondly, the motor's drive speed is limited, and the entire posture switching process is time-consuming and not responsive enough. Most importantly, its function is entirely dependent on the vehicle's power supply. In the event of a traffic accident causing a power outage or electrical system failure, the seat adjustment function will fail, potentially hindering occupant escape or rescue, posing a safety hazard. Furthermore, the electric system is relatively heavy, which is detrimental to vehicle lightweighting. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This invention addresses the problem of overly simplistic solutions in existing technologies by providing a significantly different approach. It primarily offers a manual zero-gravity frame to resolve the issues raised in the background section. Current electric solutions for achieving zero-gravity in car seats are complex, relying on multiple motors, intricate wiring harnesses, and ECU control units, resulting in high costs and increased weight. Furthermore, the adjustment process suffers from sluggish response and slow switching; and it is entirely dependent on the vehicle's power supply, leading to functional failure and safety hazards during power outages or malfunctions. This also contradicts the trend towards lightweight vehicles.

[0006] The technical solution adopted by the present invention to solve the above-mentioned technical problems is as follows: The manual zero-gravity frame includes a lower slide rail fixed to the vehicle body, an upper slide rail that slides with the lower slide rail, a seat frame frame fixedly connected to the upper slide rail, a backrest frame, and an angle adjuster connecting the seat frame frame and the backrest frame; it also includes: The linkage unlocking mechanism includes a zero-gravity unlocking handle assembly, a seat unlocking cable, and a backrest unlocking cable.

[0007] The zero-gravity unlocking handle assembly is simultaneously coupled to the seat cushion unlocking cable and the backrest unlocking cable. The zero-gravity unlocking handle assembly is used to synchronously drive the seat cushion unlocking cable to release the lock on the seat cushion flipping, and synchronously drive the backrest unlocking cable to release the lock on the backrest frame by the angle adjuster.

[0008] The seat cushion lifting and guiding mechanism is used to guide the seat frame frame to rotate and lift backward and upward along a predetermined trajectory after the seat cushion is unlocked.

[0009] A pneumatic buffer device is provided, with one end hinged to the seat frame skeleton and the other end hinged to the front horizontal tube connected to the upper slide rails on the left and right sides. The pneumatic buffer device is used to provide damping force for the rotational lifting movement of the seat frame skeleton and control its lifting speed.

[0010] More preferably, the linkage unlocking mechanism further includes a seat cushion angle adjustment unlocking bracket and a backrest cable fixing bracket; one end of the seat cushion unlocking cable is connected to the zero gravity unlocking handle assembly, and the other end is connected to the seat cushion angle adjustment unlocking bracket, for triggering the unlocking and locking of the seat cushion locking mechanism; one end of the backrest unlocking cable is connected to the zero gravity unlocking handle assembly, and the other end is connected to the unlocking arm of the angle adjuster.

[0011] More preferably, the linkage unlocking mechanism further includes a seat cable fixing bracket, which is fixedly mounted on the seat frame frame and used to fix and guide the sleeve of the seat unlocking cable to ensure the effectiveness of the cable transmission.

[0012] More preferably, the seat cushion lifting and guiding mechanism includes at least one set of first zero-gravity linkage and second zero-gravity linkage, one end of each of the first zero-gravity linkage and the second zero-gravity linkage is hinged to the seat frame frame, and the other end of each of the first zero-gravity linkage and the second zero-gravity linkage is hinged to a connecting bracket fixed to the upper slide rail or the seat frame frame.

[0013] More preferably, the first zero-gravity link and the second zero-gravity link are symmetrically arranged on the left and right sides of the seat frame to guide the seat frame to move smoothly.

[0014] More preferably, the angle adjuster is also connected to a separate backrest angle adjustment handle assembly, which is independent of the zero-gravity unlocking handle assembly and is used for individual adjustment of the backrest angle.

[0015] More preferably, the time taken for the pneumatic buffer device to rotate and lift the seat frame from the unlocked position to the zero gravity limit position is controlled within the range of 2 to 3 seconds.

[0016] More preferably, when the seat frame is in a zero-gravity state, the relative angle between the backrest frame and the seat frame frame is such that the angle between the occupant's torso and thigh is between 115 degrees and 135 degrees.

[0017] Compared with the prior art, the beneficial effects of the present invention are as follows: 1. This manual zero-gravity frame is a purely mechanical structure. Its operation is completely independent of the vehicle's electrical system. Therefore, it can eliminate functional failures caused by circuit faults, electromagnetic interference, or software malfunctions. Moreover, the mechanical components have a longer service life and higher stability. Especially in emergency situations where the vehicle is involved in a collision and loses power, the seat can still be adjusted normally, facilitating the escape of occupants or their rescue, thereby improving passive safety.

[0018] 2. This manual zero-gravity frame eliminates the motor, electronic control unit, and complex wiring system that are indispensable in electric adjustment solutions. Instead, it uses a purely mechanical transmission mechanism consisting of a zero-gravity unlocking handle assembly, seat cushion unlocking cable, backrest unlocking cable, and seat cushion angle adjustment unlocking bracket. These mechanical components are all mature and standardized parts. Compared with traditional electric adjustment solutions, the material procurement cost is low, and the processing and assembly process is simple, thereby reducing the manufacturing cost of the entire seat frame system. This makes the zero-gravity high-end comfort function economically feasible for application in a wider range of vehicle models.

[0019] 3. This manual zero-gravity frame, through a linkage unlocking mechanism, allows the user to simultaneously unlock the seat cushion and backrest by operating the zero-gravity unlocking handle assembly, which is highly efficient. More importantly, the gas spring-based cushioning device plays a crucial role, and the damping force it generates ensures that the seat cushion rises at a uniform and smooth speed. The entire posture switching time is 2 to 3 seconds, which balances the dual requirements of rapid response and smooth comfort. It avoids the discomfort caused by slow electric adjustment or sudden movement, thus improving the user experience.

[0020] 4. This manual zero-gravity frame achieves functional decoupling through the independent backrest angle adjustment handle assembly. Users can adjust the backrest angle individually and quickly as needed to meet the needs of various scenarios such as daily riding, taking a nap, or freeing up space for the rear seats. This flexible functional configuration enhances the practicality of the product and meets the diverse needs of users.

[0021] The present invention will be explained in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments. Attached Figure Description

[0022] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the linkage unlocking mechanism of the present invention; Figure 2This is a schematic diagram of the seat cushion lifting and guiding mechanism and the pneumatic buffer device of the present invention; Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the normal state structure of the present invention; Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the zero-gravity state structure of the present invention.

[0023] Numbering on the map: 1. Zero gravity unlocking handle assembly; 2. Seat cushion unlocking cable; 3. Backrest unlocking cable; 4. Connecting bracket; 5. Backrest angle adjustment handle assembly; 6. Backrest cable fixing bracket; 7. Seat cushion angle adjustment unlocking bracket; 8. First zero gravity linkage; 9. Second zero gravity linkage; 10. Gas spring; 11. Seat cushion cable fixing bracket; 12. Angle adjuster; 13. Front cross tube. Detailed Implementation

[0024] To facilitate understanding of the present invention, a more comprehensive description of the present invention will be given below with reference to the accompanying drawings, which illustrate several embodiments of the present invention. However, the present invention can be implemented in different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described in the text. Rather, these embodiments are provided to make the disclosure of the present invention more thorough and complete.

[0025] It should be noted that when an element is referred to as being "fixed to" another element, it can be directly on the other element or there may be an intervening element. When an element is referred to as being "connected to" another element, it can be directly connected to the other element or there may be an intervening element. The terms "vertical," "horizontal," "left," "right," and similar expressions used in this document are for illustrative purposes only.

[0026] Please refer to the appendix carefully. Figures 1-4 The manual zero-gravity frame includes a lower slide rail fixed to the vehicle body, an upper slide rail that slides with the lower slide rail, a seat frame frame fixedly connected to the upper slide rail, a backrest frame, and an angle adjuster 12 connecting the seat frame frame and the backrest frame. It also includes: The linkage unlocking mechanism includes a zero-gravity unlocking handle assembly 1, a seat unlocking cable 2, and a backrest unlocking cable 3.

[0027] The zero-gravity unlocking handle assembly 1 is simultaneously coupled to the seat cushion unlocking cable 2 and the backrest unlocking cable 3. The zero-gravity unlocking handle assembly 1 is used to synchronously drive the seat cushion unlocking cable 2 to release the lock on the seat cushion flipping, and synchronously drive the backrest unlocking cable 3 to release the lock on the backrest frame by the angle adjuster 12.

[0028] The seat cushion lifting and guiding mechanism includes at least one set of first zero-gravity link 8 and second zero-gravity link 9. One end of the first zero-gravity link 8 and the second zero-gravity link 9 are both hinged to the seat frame frame, and the other end of the first zero-gravity link 8 and the second zero-gravity link 9 are hinged to the connecting bracket 4 fixed to the upper slide rail or the seat frame frame. This mechanism is used to guide the seat frame frame to rotate and lift backward and upward along a predetermined trajectory after the seat cushion is unlocked.

[0029] The pneumatic buffer device includes a gas spring 10. One end of the gas spring 10 is hinged to the seat frame skeleton, and the other end is hinged to the front horizontal tube (13) connected to the upper slide rails on the left and right sides. It is used to provide damping force for the rotation and lifting movement of the seat frame skeleton and control its lifting speed.

[0030] The first zero-gravity link 8 and the second zero-gravity link 9 in the seat cushion lifting and guiding mechanism are symmetrically arranged on the left and right sides of the seat frame.

[0031] In this embodiment, as Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the linkage unlocking mechanism also includes a seat cushion angle adjustment unlocking bracket 7 and a backrest cable fixing bracket 6; one end of the seat cushion unlocking cable 2 is connected to the zero gravity unlocking handle assembly 1, and the other end is connected to the seat cushion angle adjustment unlocking bracket 7, which is used to trigger the unlocking and locking of the seat cushion locking mechanism; one end of the backrest unlocking cable 3 is connected to the zero gravity unlocking handle assembly 1, and the other end is connected to the unlocking arm of the angle adjuster 12.

[0032] The seat locking mechanism includes a rotatable locking hook and a latch fixed to the seat frame. When the seat angle adjustment unlocking bracket 7 is pulled by the seat unlocking cable 2, it rotates, driving a linkage to move the locking hook, causing it to disengage from the latch, thereby releasing the lock on the seat frame.

[0033] Through the above structure, the seat angle adjustment unlocking bracket 7 is a key component that converts the linear tension of the cable into the rotational or translational unlocking action of the seat locking mechanism; the backrest cable fixing bracket 6 ensures that the sleeve of the backrest unlocking cable 3 is reliably fixed, so that the tension can be applied to the unlocking arm of the angle adjuster 12, realizing the precise and reliable decomposition and transmission of the single handle operating force to the two different locking positions of the seat and backrest, ensuring the synchronicity and determinism of the linkage unlocking action, and providing a solid structural foundation for the realization of the zero gravity function.

[0034] In this embodiment, as Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the linkage unlocking mechanism also includes a seat cable fixing bracket 11, which is fixedly mounted on the seat frame frame and used to fix and guide the sleeve of the seat unlocking cable 2 to ensure the effectiveness of the cable transmission.

[0035] With the above structure, the seat cushion cable fixing bracket 11 can fix and guide the sleeve of the seat cushion unlocking cable 2, preventing the seat cushion unlocking cable 2 from unexpected shaking or displacement during seat movement or vehicle vibration, ensuring that the travel and efficiency of the cable transmission remain stable. This improves the reliability and durability of the entire unlocking system, reduces the risk of functional abnormalities due to transmission failure, and makes the operation feel clearer and more consistent.

[0036] In this embodiment, as Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the angle adjuster 12 is also connected to a separate backrest angle adjustment handle assembly 5, which is independent of the zero gravity unlock handle assembly 1 and is used for individual adjustment of the backrest angle.

[0037] Through the above structure, the backrest angle adjustment handle assembly 5, which is independent of the zero-gravity unlock handle assembly 1, achieves functional decoupling. When the zero-gravity mode is not activated, the backrest angle can be adjusted independently and quickly, just like operating a normal seat, to meet daily needs such as taking a nap or adjusting the rear space.

[0038] In this embodiment, as Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the thrust of the gas spring 10 is selected based on the combined torque of the seat frame, seat cushion, and passenger weight. Its stroke matches the movement trajectory of the first zero-gravity link 8 and the second zero-gravity link 9. The pneumatic buffer device is configured to control the entire process of rotating and lifting the seat frame from the unlocked position to the zero-gravity limit position within 2 to 3 seconds. A time of less than 2 seconds will result in a shock and pose a safety hazard; a time of more than 3 seconds will make the user feel that the adjustment is sluggish and the experience is poor. The 2-3 second setting perfectly balances safety by avoiding rapid bounce, comfort by smooth transition, and efficiency by quick arrival, thereby improving the user experience.

[0039] In this embodiment, as Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, when the seat frame is in a zero-gravity state, the relative angle between the backrest frame and the seat frame frame causes the angle between the occupant's torso and thighs to be between 115 and 135 degrees. The final posture in the zero-gravity state has been quantitatively defined from a physiological and ergonomic perspective, namely, the angle between the torso and thighs is 115°-135°. This angle range is the golden angle that has been verified by ergonomic research and is most effective in distributing weight and reducing spinal pressure. It can avoid the discomfort that may be caused by an angle that is too large or too small, thereby improving the user's comfort.

[0040] The specific operation process of this invention is as follows: When the user needs to activate the zero-gravity mode, the zero-gravity unlocking handle assembly 1 located on the side of the seat is operated first. This manual operation is the starting input for the entire system's movement. The action of pulling the zero-gravity unlocking handle assembly 1 generates two parallel force outputs simultaneously through the mechanical linkage mechanism. On the one hand, it drives the seat cushion unlocking cable 2, and on the other hand, it simultaneously drives the backrest unlocking cable 3. After being pulled, the tension of the seat cushion unlocking cable 2 is transmitted to the seat cushion angle adjustment unlocking bracket 7 through the precise guidance of the seat cushion cable fixing bracket 11. This transmission process converts the linear tension of the cable into the rotational or translational movement of the unlocking bracket, thereby releasing the locked state of the seat cushion flipping mechanism. At the same time, the backrest unlocking cable 3 is simultaneously subjected to force under the same handle operation. Its tension is guided by the backrest cable fixing bracket 6 and directly acts on the unlocking arm of the angle adjuster 12, instantly releasing the angle lock of the angle adjuster 12 on the backrest frame.

[0041] The moment the seat cushion and backrest are unlocked, the system enters the posture transformation phase. The user's body naturally leans back, and only a slight backward force is applied to provide the backrest frame with the power to rotate backward, so that the backrest tilts smoothly around the axis of the adjuster 12. At the same time, the seat cushion frame begins to move under the action of the internal energy storage element or its own mechanism. At this time, the first zero-gravity link 8 and the second zero-gravity link 9, which are symmetrically arranged on the left and right sides of the seat frame frame, begin to play a key guiding role, guiding the seat cushion frame to rotate and lift backward and upward according to the predetermined motion trajectory, ensuring that the movement of the seat cushion and the backrest is perfectly synchronized.

[0042] Throughout the entire seat cushion lifting process, the gas spring 10, as the core cushioning device, continues to play its role. The lower end of the gas spring 10 is hinged to the front horizontal tube 13 that connects the left and right upper slide rails, and the upper end is connected to the seat frame frame. When the seat cushion is lifted, the piston rod of the gas spring 10 is gradually compressed, and the damping force generated inside it counteracts the lifting force of the seat cushion, precisely controlling the time of the entire rotation lifting process within the optimized range of 2 to 3 seconds. This design not only avoids the safety hazards caused by rapid bounce, but also ensures a smooth and comfortable adjustment process.

[0043] Through the coordinated work of the above-mentioned mechanisms, the seat is finally stabilized in a zero-gravity state. In this state, the relative angle between the backrest frame and the seat frame is precisely calculated so that the angle between the user's torso and thighs is within the optimal ergonomic range of 115 to 135 degrees, achieving the optimal distribution of body pressure.

[0044] When it is necessary to exit the zero-gravity mode, the user leans forward and applies a forward force to the backrest. At this time, the internal spring or mechanism of the angle adjuster 12 tends to reset it. Simultaneously, the occupant can operate the backrest angle adjustment handle assembly 5 or the zero-gravity unlocking handle assembly 1 with one hand and press down on the front end of the seat cushion with the help of body weight. During the pressing down of the seat cushion, the locking hook of the seat cushion locking mechanism automatically engages with the latch under the action of the reset spring when the seat frame returns to the initial position, and re-locks.

[0045] The present invention has been described by way of example in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the specific implementation of the present invention is not limited to the above-described manner. Any non-substantial improvement made by adopting the inventive concept and technical solution of the present invention, or the direct application of the inventive concept and technical solution of the present invention to other occasions without modification, shall be within the protection scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A manual zero-gravity frame, comprising a lower slide rail fixed to the vehicle body, an upper slide rail slidably engaged with the lower slide rail, a seat frame frame fixedly connected to the upper slide rail, a backrest frame, and an angle adjuster (12) connecting the seat frame frame and the backrest frame, characterized in that, Also includes: The linkage unlocking mechanism includes a zero-gravity unlocking handle assembly (1), a seat cushion unlocking cable (2), and a backrest unlocking cable (3). The zero-gravity unlocking handle assembly (1) is simultaneously coupled to the seat cushion unlocking cable (2) and the backrest unlocking cable (3). The zero-gravity unlocking handle assembly (1) is used to synchronously drive the seat cushion unlocking cable (2) to release the lock on the seat cushion flipping, and synchronously drive the backrest unlocking cable (3) to release the lock on the backrest frame by the angle adjuster (12). The seat cushion lifting and guiding mechanism is used to guide the seat frame frame to rotate and lift backward and upward along a predetermined trajectory after the seat cushion is unlocked; A pneumatic buffer device, one end of which is hinged to the seat frame skeleton and the other end of which is hinged to the front horizontal tube (13) connected to the upper slide rails on the left and right sides, is used to provide damping force for the rotational lifting motion of the seat frame skeleton and control its lifting speed.

2. The manual zero-gravity skeleton according to claim 1, characterized in that: The linkage unlocking mechanism also includes a seat angle adjustment unlocking bracket (7) and a backrest cable fixing bracket (6); one end of the seat unlocking cable (2) is connected to the zero gravity unlocking handle assembly (1), and the other end is connected to the seat angle adjustment unlocking bracket (7) to trigger the unlocking and locking of the seat locking mechanism; one end of the backrest unlocking cable (3) is connected to the zero gravity unlocking handle assembly (1), and the other end is connected to the unlocking arm of the angle adjuster (12).

3. The manual zero-gravity skeleton according to claim 2, characterized in that: The linkage unlocking mechanism also includes a seat cable fixing bracket (11), which is fixedly installed on the seat frame frame and is used to fix and guide the sleeve of the seat unlocking cable (2) to ensure the effectiveness of the cable transmission.

4. The manual zero-gravity skeleton according to claim 1, characterized in that: The seat cushion lifting and guiding mechanism includes at least one set of first zero gravity link (8) and second zero gravity link (9). One end of the first zero gravity link (8) and the second zero gravity link (9) are both hinged to the seat frame frame, and the other end of the first zero gravity link (8) and the second zero gravity link (9) are hinged to the connecting bracket (4) fixed to the upper slide rail or the seat frame frame.

5. The manual zero-gravity skeleton according to claim 1, characterized in that: The first zero-gravity link (8) and the second zero-gravity link (9) are symmetrically arranged on the left and right sides of the seat frame to guide the seat frame to move smoothly.

6. The manual zero-gravity skeleton according to claim 1, characterized in that: The angle adjuster (12) is also connected to an independent backrest angle adjustment handle assembly (5), which is independent of the zero gravity unlock handle assembly (1) and is used for individual adjustment of the backrest angle.

7. The manual zero-gravity skeleton according to claim 1, characterized in that: The pneumatic buffer device is used to control the time for rotating and lifting the seat frame from the unlocked position to the zero gravity limit position within the range of 2 to 3 seconds.

8. The manual zero-gravity skeleton according to claim 1, characterized in that: When the seat frame is in a zero-gravity state, the relative angle between the backrest frame and the seat frame frame causes the angle between the occupant's torso and thighs to be between 115 and 135 degrees.

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