Vehicle seat rear assembly for a vehicle seat, vehicle seat, headrest cushion part, vehicle and method of installing a vehicle seat in a vehicle cabin

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a vehicle seat rear assembly (16) for a vehicle seat (12). The vehicle seat rear assembly comprises a headrest frame (24) which is integrally formed with a backrest support frame (22) of the vehicle seat. The vehicle seat rear assembly comprises a headrest cushion part (20). The headrest cushion part is movably coupled to the headrest frame when in a release state (RS). The headrest frame and the headrest cushion part each comprise a fixation interface (42, 44) for permanently fixing the headrest cushion part to the headrest frame when in a working state. The present disclosure also relates to a vehicle seat comprising said vehicle seat rear assembly and to a headrest cushion part for said vehicle seat rear assembly. The present disclosure also provides a vehicle comprising said vehicle seat rear assembly, said vehicle seat and / or said headrest cushion part. A method for mounting a vehicle seat within a vehicle cabin is also provided.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a rear seat assembly for a vehicle seat. The rear seat assembly includes a headrest frame integrally formed with the backrest support frame of the vehicle seat.

[0002] Furthermore, this disclosure relates to a vehicle seat including a rear seat assembly.

[0003] Furthermore, this disclosure relates to a headrest pad for a rear seat assembly in a vehicle.

[0004] In addition, this disclosure relates to a vehicle including a rear seat assembly, a vehicle seat, and / or a headrest padding.

[0005] Finally, this disclosure provides a method for installing a vehicle seat inside the passenger compartment of a vehicle. Background Technology

[0006] Modern vehicles are constantly optimizing their aerodynamics to reduce fuel and / or energy consumption while driving.

[0007] One aspect of optimizing vehicle aerodynamics is a low roofline. A low roofline reduces the overall impact surface of the airflow, thereby reducing aerodynamic drag. A low roofline typically results in relatively small vehicle compartment openings (i.e., doors). In particular, for a vehicle with a low roofline, the height of the openings (i.e., doors) may be smaller.

[0008] However, current safety requirements necessitate full support for vehicle occupants, especially in the event of a collision. In particular, occupants' heads need to be fully supported by the vehicle seats to prevent neck injuries in the event of frontal and / or rear-end collisions.

[0009] Compared to previous vehicle seats, this requires increasing the overall height of today's vehicle seats. Therefore, there is a possibility of conflict between the increased seat size and the relatively small opening in the passenger compartment. Summary of the Invention

[0010] Improved vehicle seating may be necessary to resolve or at least mitigate the conflict of objectives described.

[0011] This problem is at least partially solved or mitigated by the subject matter of this disclosure.

[0012] According to a first aspect, a vehicle seat rear assembly for a vehicle seat is provided. The vehicle seat rear assembly includes: - A headrest frame, which is integrally formed with the backrest support frame of the vehicle seat, and - Headrest padding.

[0013] The headrest padding is movably connected to the headrest frame when in the released state. Both the headrest frame and the headrest padding include a fixing interface for permanently securing the headrest padding to the headrest frame when in the working state.

[0014] When used by an occupant, the rear seat assembly typically supports the occupant's back and / or head. For this purpose, the backrest support frame provides structural stability to the vehicle seat back. The headrest frame being integrally formed with the backrest support frame means that the backrest support frame is seamlessly integrated into the headrest frame without any dedicated connecting devices in between. This ensures high structural stability for both the headrest frame and the backrest support frame. If an adult occupant is using the vehicle seat, the transition between the backrest support frame and the headrest frame is typically near the occupant's neck area, for example, within approximately 30 cm. According to this disclosure, the headrest padding is coupled to the headrest frame in both its released and operational states. In the released state, the coupling between the headrest padding and the headrest frame is movable. This can include translational and / or rotational movement of the headrest padding relative to the headrest frame. This has the effect that by moving the headrest padding relative to the headrest frame, the physical extension of the rear seat assembly can be modified in the released state of the headrest padding. Specifically, the physical extension of the rear seat assembly can be modified to allow the rear seat assembly to be fitted through a relatively small opening in the vehicle compartment. In other words, the rear seat assembly can become compact. Furthermore, the automotive industry currently tends towards wider headrests, for example, to enhance safety and / or to integrate more functionality within the headrest. This means that the headrest padding portion, referred to herein, can be significantly wider than the width of the headrest frame to which the headrest padding portion is positioned in the operational state. The backrest of the vehicle seat is at least as wide as the occupant's shoulder width, which can also be significantly wider than the width of the headrest frame. Therefore, additionally or alternatively, this disclosure provides the advantage that the vehicle seat is not as bulky when the headrest padding portion is in the released state and folded downwards toward the backrest as it would be when the headrest padding portion is positioned toward the headrest frame (i.e., in the operational state). In the operational state, the connection between the headrest padding portion and the headrest frame is fixed. This likely means that translational and / or rotational movement of the headrest padding portion relative to the headrest frame is not possible. Therefore, the released state of the headrest padding can be defined as the headrest padding not being in an active state and thus not permanently fixed to the headrest frame. The fixation of the headrest padding to the headrest frame is established by the fixing interface between the headrest padding and the headrest frame. Due to the engagement of the fixing interface between the headrest padding and the headrest frame, a permanent fixation of the headrest padding relative to the headrest frame is established. It should be understood that the headrest padding cannot be separated from the headrest frame without damaging any of the components that are fixed to it. In short, the headrest padding of the rear seat assembly can only be switched from a released state to an active state once. In other words, once the headrest padding has been switched to an active state, it cannot be switched back to the released state without destructive action. This has the effect that once in the active state, the headrest padding is firmly attached to the headrest frame.Therefore, it improves the safety of vehicle occupants using vehicle seats, especially during a collision.

[0015] In one example, when the headrest pad is in the active position, it extends beyond the headrest frame in the longitudinal direction of the backrest support frame. This extension means that the physical extension of the rear seat assembly including the headrest pad is greater than that of the rear seat assembly without the headrest pad. This physical extension is specifically measured in the longitudinal direction of the backrest support frame of the rear seat assembly. When in use, i.e., if installed in a vehicle, the longitudinal direction of the backrest support frame extends substantially in the height direction. The longitudinal direction of the backrest support frame can be defined as the direction from the bottom of the backrest support frame to the headrest frame. The bottom of the backrest support frame is opposite to the headrest frame on the rear seat assembly. When the headrest pad is in the active position, the effect of extending beyond the headrest frame in the longitudinal direction of the backrest support frame is that the surface area of ​​the rear seat assembly supporting the upper body (especially the head) of the vehicle occupant using the vehicle seat is increased. Therefore, particularly in the event of a frontal and / or rear-end collision, the upper body, especially the head, of the vehicle occupant is reliably and firmly supported. This can in particular prevent neck injuries to occupants, or at least reduce their gravitational pull.

[0016] In one example, when the headrest pad is in the released state, the headrest frame extends beyond the headrest pad in the longitudinal direction of the backrest support frame. This extension means that the physical extension of the rear seat assembly in the longitudinal direction of the backrest support frame is less if the headrest pad is in the released state than if the headrest pad is in the deployed state. This has the effect that the physical extension of the rear seat assembly is reduced when the headrest pad is in the released state. Therefore, this particularly facilitates the installation of a vehicle seat including the rear seat assembly into the vehicle compartment. This is because the reduced physical extension of the rear seat assembly makes it easier to fit the rear seat assembly through openings in the vehicle compartment. Furthermore, the smaller physical extension of the rear seat assembly allows the vehicle seat including the rear seat assembly to be transferred from the outside of the vehicle compartment to the inside of the vehicle compartment through relatively small openings in the vehicle compartment.

[0017] In one example, when the headrest pad is in the released state, it extends along a first direction, and when it is in the working state, it extends along a second direction. The first and second directions enclose an angle of 30° to 180°. This means that the headrest pad in the working state rotates by an angle of 30° to 180° relative to the headrest pad in the released state. Note that the rotation of the headrest pad between the released and working states does not preclude translational movement of the headrest pad when transitioning from the released to the working state. In a specific example, the first and second directions enclose an angle of 60° or 80° to 140°. In another specific example, the first and second directions enclose an angle of 110° or close to 110°. Generally, as long as the angle between the first and second directions causes the headrest pad to not extend above the extension of the headrest frame, this disclosure provides the advantage of a reduced vehicle seat height when in the released state compared to when in the working state. The configuration of the angle between the first direction (when in the released state) and the second direction (when in the working state) of the headrest pad has the following effect: the physical extension of the vehicle seat rear assembly can be modified by rotating the headrest pad. Rotation of the headrest pad is a relatively simple movement that can be performed by an assembly operator during the assembly process of a vehicle including a vehicle seat with the vehicle seat rear assembly having this aspect. Therefore, the assembly operator can quickly switch the headrest pad from the released state to the working state by rotational movement, thereby permanently fixing the headrest pad to the headrest frame.

[0018] In one example, when in the released state, the headrest padding is movably connected to the headrest frame via a connecting part. This means that the headrest padding is not directly connected to the headrest frame, but indirectly connected via the connecting part. Therefore, a movable connection can exist between the headrest padding and the connecting part, and between the connecting part and the headrest frame. When in the released state, this enhances the degree of freedom of movement of the headrest padding relative to the headrest frame. This enhanced degree of freedom of movement of the headrest padding relative to the headrest frame when in the released state allows the physical extension of the vehicle seat rear assembly to be minimized. In other words, the vehicle seat rear assembly can become very compact. Note that in the context of this example, "physical extension" can refer not only to the extension of the vehicle seat rear assembly along the length of the backrest support frame, but also to a physical extension perpendicular to it.

[0019] In one example, the connection includes at least one connecting rod having a first end pivotally and / or slidably connected to the headrest padding and / or a second end pivotally and / or slidably connected to the headrest frame. In other words, a movable connection may exist between the at least one connecting rod and the headrest padding at the first end of the at least one connecting rod. This movable connection may allow rotational and / or translational movement of the headrest padding relative to the connecting rod. At the second end of the at least one connecting rod, a movable connection may exist between the connecting rod and the headrest frame. This movable connection may allow rotational and / or translational movement of the connecting rod relative to the headrest frame. Note that the movable connections at both ends of the at least one connecting rod may include any combination of pivotable and / or slidable connections. In one particular example, the first end of the at least one connecting rod may be pivotally and slidably connected to the headrest padding. The second end of the at least one connecting rod may also be pivotally and slidably connected to the headrest frame. In another particular example, the first end of the at least one connecting rod may be pivotally connected only to the headrest padding. The second end of at least one connecting rod can be pivotally and slidably connected to the headrest frame. The pivotable and / or slidable connection at each end of at least one connecting rod connecting the headrest padding and the headrest frame further increases the degree of freedom of movement of the headrest padding relative to the headrest frame when in the released state.

[0020] In one example, the connection includes two connecting rods. Each connecting rod has a first end pivotally and / or slidably connected to the headrest padding and / or a second end pivotally and / or slidably connected to the headrest frame. The two connecting rods can be arranged parallel to each other and can be of equal length. By having two connecting rods as the connection, the structural stability and reliability of the connection between the headrest padding and the headrest frame are enhanced. The two connecting rods can include the same type of connection at their respective first ends, i.e., a pivotable and / or slidable connection. Similarly, the two connecting rods can include the same type of connection at their respective second ends, i.e., a pivotable and / or slidable connection. In a particular example, the first end of the first of the two connecting rods can be pivotally connected only to the headrest padding. Furthermore, the first end of the second of the two connecting rods can be pivotally connected only to the headrest padding. The second end of the first of the two connecting rods can be pivotally and slidably connected to the headrest frame. Furthermore, the second end of the second of the two connecting rods can be pivotally and slidably connected to the headrest frame. Two parallel connecting rods of the same length and identical connections at their corresponding ends allow the headrest padding to be precisely guided from the released state to the working state along a predetermined path. Specifically, it ensures that when the headrest padding is switched to the working state, the fixed interfaces of the headrest padding and the headrest frame meet each other at their desired positions and orientations relative to each other.

[0021] In one example, two connecting rods are formed as part of a support. The support can be understood as a U-shaped or Ω-shaped component. In the support, the two connecting rods are connected at their respective first ends or at their respective second ends via a connecting link. Thus, the two connecting rods and the connecting link form a single entity of the connection. Connecting the two connecting rods at their first or second ends enhances the torsional stiffness of the connection. In another example, the two connecting rods are formed as part of a connecting ring. A connecting ring can be understood as a ring in which the two connecting rods are connected to each other at each of their first ends and at each of their second ends via a connecting link. In short, the connecting ring can be considered a single-chain element. The two parallel portions of the single-chain element form the two connecting rods. Connecting the two connecting rods at both the first and second ends further enhances the torsional stiffness of the connection. The high torsional stiffness of the connection is desirable because it helps the fixed interfaces of the headrest padding and the headrest frame meet each other at desired positions and orientations relative to each other when the headrest padding is switched to the working state.

[0022] In one example, the headrest frame's fixing interface includes at least one hook and / or at least one lug, and the headrest pad's fixing interface includes at least one lug and / or at least one hook. This means that for any hook and / or lug on the headrest frame's fixing interface, a corresponding lug and / or hook exists on the headrest pad's fixing interface. The hooks and / or lugs can interact to achieve the aforementioned fixing between the headrest frame and the headrest pad. When transitioning to the working state, the hooks and / or lugs on the headrest frame's fixing interface engage with the lugs and / or hooks on the headrest pad's fixing interface. The engagement of the hooks and lugs in the working state is permanent. Therefore, the engagement between the headrest pad and the headrest frame in the working state may not be released without destructive action.

[0023] In one example, the length of the rear seat assembly in the released state of the headrest pad differs from the length of the rear seat assembly in the engaged state by 20mm to 100mm. The length of the rear seat assembly can be measured in a direction parallel to the length direction of the backrest support frame. Therefore, the height of the vehicle seat including the rear seat assembly also differs by 20mm to 100mm. This has the following effects: in the released state, the physical extension of the rear seat assembly can be reduced, making it easier to assemble the rear seat assembly through the opening of the passenger compartment during installation of the vehicle seat including the rear seat assembly inside the passenger compartment. Simultaneously, when in the engaged state, the large surface of the rear seat assembly used to support the upper body (especially the head) of the vehicle occupant using the vehicle seat remains engaged. Therefore, especially in the event of a frontal and / or rear-end collision, the upper body, especially the head, of the vehicle occupant is reliably and firmly supported. This, in particular, can prevent neck injuries to the occupant, or at least reduce their weight.

[0024] According to a second aspect, a vehicle seat is provided, comprising a rear seat assembly according to the first aspect. In the released state, the connection between the headrest pad portion and the headrest frame of the rear seat assembly is movable. This has the effect that, by moving the headrest pad portion relative to the headrest frame, the physical extension of the vehicle seat, particularly the height of the vehicle seat, can be modified in the released state of the headrest pad portion. In other words, the vehicle seat can become compact. The height of the vehicle seat can be measured parallel to the length direction of the backrest support frame of the rear seat assembly. The physical extension of the vehicle seat can be modified, particularly in a way that allows the vehicle seat to fit through relatively small openings in the passenger compartment. In the operating state, the connection between the headrest pad portion and the headrest frame is permanently fixed. This has the effect that, once transitioning from the released state to the operating state, the headrest pad portion is securely attached to the headrest frame. Therefore, the safety of vehicle occupants using the vehicle seat is improved, especially during a collision.

[0025] According to a third aspect, a headrest pad portion for a vehicle seat rear assembly of the first aspect is provided. The headrest pad portion includes a coupling interface for movably coupling the headrest pad portion to a headrest frame of the vehicle seat rear assembly. Furthermore, the headrest pad portion includes a fixing interface for permanently securing the headrest pad portion to the headrest frame. The coupling interface allows for pivotable and / or slidable coupling between the headrest pad portion and the headrest frame. This has the effect that, in a released state, the position and / or orientation of the headrest pad portion relative to the headrest frame, which is directly connected to or indirectly connected to the headrest pad portion without a coupling portion, can be modified. The fixing interface for establishing permanent fixation between the headrest pad portion and the headrest frame in the working state enhances the safety of occupants of vehicles using vehicle seats including the headrest pad portion, especially during a vehicle collision.

[0026] In one example, the headrest padding also includes a recess for accommodating at least a portion of the connecting portion. This allows the connecting portion, which establishes a movable connection between the headrest padding and the headrest frame in the released state, to not interfere with the permanent fixation of the headrest padding to the headrest frame in the operating state. This is because the connecting portion can be at least partially retracted within the recess of the headrest padding. Therefore, the fixing interfaces of the headrest padding and the headrest frame can directly contact and / or tightly engage without the connecting portion interfering with the contact and / or engagement.

[0027] In one example, the fixing interface includes at least one lug and / or at least one hook for permanently securing the headrest padding to the headrest frame. When transitioning from a released state to an operating state, the hook and / or lug on the fixing interface of the headrest padding engages with the lug and / or hook on the fixing interface of the headrest frame. The engagement of the hook and lug in the operating state is permanent. Therefore, the engagement between the headrest padding and the headrest frame in the operating state may not be released without destructive action.

[0028] According to a fourth aspect, a vehicle is provided, comprising a rear seat assembly according to a first aspect, a vehicle seat according to a second aspect, and / or a headrest pad according to a third aspect. Providing such a vehicle allows for the design of the vehicle with a relatively small opening (i.e., a door) in the passenger compartment through which the vehicle seat, including the rear seat assembly (which includes the headrest pad), can be transferred when the vehicle seat is installed in the passenger compartment. During installation, particularly during the transfer of the vehicle seat through the opening in the passenger compartment, the headrest pad is in a released state. The relatively small opening in the passenger compartment allows for a relatively low roofline of the vehicle. The low roofline provides a reduced impact surface for airflow, thereby reducing aerodynamic drag. Reduced aerodynamic drag helps reduce fuel and / or energy consumption of the vehicle while driving. Simultaneously, the upper body (especially the head) of the vehicle occupants can be reliably supported by the large surface area of ​​the rear seat assembly with the headrest pad in its working state. Therefore, the safety of the vehicle occupants is improved, especially during a collision.

[0029] According to a fifth aspect, a method for installing a vehicle seat inside the passenger compartment of a vehicle is provided. The method includes: - Vehicle seats are provided outside the passenger compartment of the vehicle, wherein the headrest padding of the rear seat assembly of the vehicle seats is in a released state, and - The vehicle seat is transferred into the passenger compartment, wherein the headrest padding is in the released state, and then the headrest padding is switched to the working state.

[0030] When the vehicle seat is provided outside the vehicle compartment, the headrest padding is already movably coupled to the headrest frame. Thus, the vehicle seat is provided as a single unit. Optionally, this coupling also allows cables or wires required for, for example, speakers or headrest pad heating elements arranged in the headrest padding, or ventilation ducts for, for example, neck-level heating / cooling systems arranged in or on the headrest padding, to be guided from the seat back or pre-connected to the headrest padding before the vehicle seat is transported into the compartment. This allows wired connections and / or connections via air ducts to be pre-prepared, for example, near the production line before the vehicle seat is assembled in the vehicle. Therefore, the vehicle seat can be transported to the production line almost entirely pre-assembled. Once the vehicle seat is secured to the interior of the compartment, only the headrest padding remains in the transition from a released to an operational state. This reduces manufacturing time on the production line, as the movement of the headrest padding from a released to an operational state is simple and quick for assembly personnel. During the transfer of the vehicle seat into the passenger compartment, i.e., through the compartment opening (i.e., the door), the headrest cushion remains in the released state. This reduces the physical extension of the vehicle seat, particularly along the height direction. Therefore, the size of the opening (i.e., the door) in the passenger compartment can be relatively small. Once the vehicle seat has reached the interior of the passenger compartment, especially after the vehicle seat has been secured to the interior, the headrest cushion is switched to the active state. The active state is when the headrest cushion is permanently fixed to the headrest frame of the vehicle seat. Furthermore, compared to the released state, the physical extension of the vehicle seat (particularly along the height direction) increases in the active state. Therefore, the upper body (particularly the head) of the vehicle occupant using the seat can be reliably supported by the large surface of the vehicle seat. This improves the safety of vehicle occupants using the seat, especially during a collision.

[0031] It should be noted that the above examples can be combined with each other, regardless of the aspects involved.

[0032] These and other aspects of this disclosure will become apparent from the examples described below and will be illustrated with reference to the examples described below. Attached Figure Description

[0033] Examples of this disclosure will now be described with reference to the following figures.

[0034] Figure 1 A vehicle including a vehicle seat according to the present disclosure is shown. Figure 2 It shows Figure 1 The vehicle seat includes a rear seat assembly according to the present disclosure in an operational state and a headrest padding portion according to the present disclosure. Figure 3 It shows Figure 2 The vehicle seats, with the headrest padding in the released position. Figure 4 It shows Figure 3 A detailed view of the upper part of the rear seat assembly of the vehicle seat, with the headrest padding in the released state. Figure 5 It shows Figure 4 The side view of the upper part of the rear seat assembly shows the height difference of the vehicle seat depending on whether the headrest padding is in the active or retracted position. Figure 6a It shows along Figure 4 Line AA passes through the cross-section of the headrest padding portion, which is indicated by a horizontal orientation. Figure 6b It shows along Figure 4 Line BB passes through the cross-section of the headrest padding portion, which is indicated by a horizontal orientation. Figure 7 The steps of a method for installing a vehicle seat inside a vehicle compartment according to this disclosure are illustrated schematically. Figure 8a -c illustrates the steps of a method for installing a vehicle seat inside the passenger compartment according to this disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0035] The accompanying drawings are merely schematic representations and are intended to illustrate this disclosure only. In principle, identical or equivalent elements have the same reference numerals.

[0036] Figure 1 Vehicle 10 is shown.

[0037] Vehicle 10 includes vehicle seat 12. Vehicle seat 12 can be used as a seat for the occupants of vehicle 10. In other words, occupants can use vehicle seat 12 when driving or riding in vehicle 10.

[0038] Although vehicle seat 12 is schematically shown as a separate front seat of vehicle 10, the following considerations also apply to a front bench having several front seats connected to form a single bench. Furthermore, the following considerations apply not only to the front seats or front bench of the vehicle, but generally to vehicle seat 12 and vehicle bench. In particular, the following considerations also apply to the rear seats and rear bench of vehicle 10.

[0039] Figure 2 Showing more details Figure 1 12 vehicle seats.

[0040] The vehicle seat 12 includes a leg support 14 and a rear seat assembly 16. In this case, the leg support 14 may also be specified as a thigh support, femoral support, or hip support.

[0041] The rear seat assembly 16 includes a backrest 18 of the vehicle seat 12 and a headrest padding 20. When an occupant of the vehicle 10 is seated in the vehicle seat 12, the occupant's upper body (particularly the back) is supported by the backrest 18 of the vehicle seat 12, and the occupant's head is supported by the headrest padding 20.

[0042] Inside the backrest 18, there is a backrest support frame 22, shown only schematically. The backrest support frame provides structural stability to the backrest 18, particularly to enable the backrest 18 to support the upper body of the occupant sitting in the vehicle seat 12.

[0043] from Figure 3 and Figure 4 As can be seen, the backrest support frame 22 is incorporated into the headrest frame 24 in the top region of the rear seat assembly 16. The top region of the rear seat assembly 16 is opposite to the side of the leg support 14 adjacent to the vehicle seat 12.

[0044] In other words, the headrest frame 24 and the backrest support frame 22 can be said to be integrally formed. This means that there is a seamless connection between the headrest frame 24 and the backrest support frame 22, with no connecting elements other than the frames themselves. Setting the backrest support frame 22 and the headrest frame 24 as a single component has the following advantages: for example, since the backrest support frame 22 and the headrest frame 24 can be manufactured as a single component, there is no need for potential weakened joints or fasteners between the components.

[0045] The headrest padding 20 is connected to the headrest frame 24, that is, in particular, the headrest padding 20 is suspended on the headrest frame 24 so as to support the head of the occupant sitting in the vehicle seat 12.

[0046] from Figures 2 to 5 It can be seen that the headrest padding 20 can adopt two different states: the released state RS and the operating state OS. The released state RS... Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown in the diagram, the OS is in a working state. Figure 2 As shown in [the diagram]. Furthermore, the release state RS is in [the diagram]. Figure 5 The center is indicated by a dashed line representing the headrest padding portion 20. Operating status OS is in... Figure 5 The solid line representing the headrest padding portion 20 is shown in the middle.

[0047] In the released state RS, the headrest padding 20 is movably connected to the headrest frame 24.

[0048] exist Figure 3 In the example shown, the movable connection is achieved by the connecting part 26.

[0049] The connecting part 26 includes two connecting rods 28. However, it is also conceivable that the connecting part 26 may include only one connecting rod 28.

[0050] Each connecting rod 28 includes a first end 30 and a second end 32.

[0051] The two connecting rods 28 are connected at their respective first ends 30 by a connecting link 34. Therefore, the connecting portion 26 can be described as U-shaped. In other words, the connecting portion 26 can be described as forming a support.

[0052] With the aid of the connecting rod 34, the connecting part 26 is rotatably engaged with the connecting interface 36 of the headrest padding part 20. In other words, the connecting part 26 is pivotally connected to the headrest padding part 20 via the connecting rod 34.

[0053] To establish a pivotable connection, the connection interface 36 of the headrest padding 20 includes a recess 38. The recess 38 accommodates the connecting link 34, allowing it to rotate about a first pivot axis PA1 (see, in particular). Figure 6b By rotating about the first pivot axis PA1, the connecting part 26 is released from the RS ( Figure 6b The dashed line in the middle) transitions to the working state OS ( Figure 6b (The solid line in the middle).

[0054] In this example, the connection between the headrest padding 20 and the connecting part 26 only allows rotational movement. However, other types of connections that allow sliding connections or sliding connections in combination with rotatable connections are also conceivable.

[0055] At the respective second ends 32 of the two connecting rods 28, there are extensions 40 of the U-shaped connecting portions 26. Each extension 40 protrudes from the connecting rod 28 at a substantially right angle toward the outside of the U-shaped connecting portion 26 in a direction parallel to the connecting rod 34. Therefore, it can also be said that the connecting portion 26 comprises an Ω shape.

[0056] The connecting portion 26 engages with the headrest frame 24 via the extension 40. The extension 40 is slidable along the headrest frame 24. Simultaneously, the extension 40 provides a second pivot axis PA2, about which the connecting portion 26 is rotatable relative to the headrest frame 24. Of course, since the extension 40 can slide relative to the headrest frame 24, the second pivot axis PA2 can also move relative to the headrest frame 24.

[0057] exist Figure 2 As shown in and Figure 5In the working state OS shown by the solid line representing the headrest padding part 20, the headrest padding part 20 is permanently fixed to the headrest frame 24.

[0058] For this purpose, the headrest padding 20 and the headrest frame 24 each include fixing interfaces 42 and 44.

[0059] The fixing interface 44 of the headrest frame 24 includes two hooks 46. Correspondingly, the fixing interface 42 of the headrest padding 20 includes two lugs 48. It should be understood that, alternatively, the fixing interface 42 of the headrest padding 20 may include at least one hook 46, and the fixing interface 44 of the headrest frame 24 may include at least one lug 48. Of course, each fixing interface 42, 44 may also include both at least one hook 46 and at least one lug 48.

[0060] When the headrest padding part 20 changes from the released state RS to the working state OS, the headrest padding part 20 is permanently (i.e., non-releasable) engaged with the lug 48 of the headrest frame 24 by the hook 46 of the headrest frame 24.

[0061] Therefore, the headrest padding 20 can only transition from the released state RS to the working state OS once. It is not possible to return from the working state OS to the released state RS without damaging any of the headrest padding 20, the connecting part 26, and / or the headrest frame 24.

[0062] Figure 6a The cross-sectional view provided shows that the recess 38 of the connection interface 36 of the headrest padding 20 not only accommodates the connecting rod 34 of the connection part 26 in the released state (connection part 26 is drawn with dashed lines), but also partially accommodates the connecting rod 28 of the connection part 26 when in the working state (connection part 26 is drawn with solid lines). This allows the fixing interface 42 of the headrest padding 42 to fit tightly with the fixing interface 44 of the headrest frame 24.

[0063] Compared to other ways of accommodating headrest padding, Figures 3 to 6b The illustrated embodiment can be in both a released and operational state. An additional advantage of this is that the headrest padding is clearly visible when not in operation and is difficult for an assembly worker to miss. Typically, when in the released state, the headrest padding will protrude clearly from the main body of the vehicle seat.

[0064] Figures 3 to 5 It is shown that when in the released state RS, the headrest frame 24 extends beyond the headrest padding portion 20 in the longitudinal direction LD of the backrest support frame 22.

[0065] The length direction LD of the backrest support frame 22 is defined as the shortest connection between the bottom 50 of the vehicle seat rear assembly 16 and the top 52 of the vehicle seat rear assembly 16. The bottom 50 of the vehicle seat rear assembly 16 is the side of the vehicle seat rear assembly 16 adjacent to the leg support 14 of the vehicle seat 12 to which the vehicle seat rear assembly 16 is mounted.

[0066] exist Figure 2 and Figure 5 The diagram shows that, when in operating state OS, the headrest padding 20 extends beyond the headrest frame 24 in the longitudinal direction LD of the backrest support frame 22. Figure 5 In this context, the length L is used to represent the length. The length L can range from 20 mm to 100 mm. In a specific example, the length L of the headrest padding 20 extending beyond the headrest frame 24 in the operating state OS can be 60 mm.

[0067] Therefore, when the headrest cushion 20 is switched from the released state RS to the active state OS, the physical extension of the vehicle seat rear assembly 16 in the longitudinal direction LD of the backrest support frame 22 increases. In other words, it can be said that if the headrest cushion 20 is in the released state RS, the physical extension of the vehicle seat rear assembly 16 in the longitudinal direction LD of the backrest support frame 22 is smaller than if the headrest cushion 20 is in the active state OS.

[0068] Figure 5 The side view of the top area of ​​the vehicle seat rear assembly 16 provided in the image shows the increase in the physical extension of the vehicle seat rear assembly 16 achieved by the headrest pad portion 20 being positioned at an angle A relative to each other in its released state RS and working state OS.

[0069] More precisely, in Figure 5 In the side view provided, it can be said that in the released state RS, the headrest padding portion 20 extends along the first direction D1. In the operating state OS, the headrest padding portion 20 extends along the second direction D2. The first direction D1 and the second direction D2 enclose each other at the aforementioned angle A. The value of angle A can be between 30° and 180°. In this example, the value of angle A is 110°.

[0070] Since an angle A is formed between the first direction D1 corresponding to the release state RS and the second direction D2 corresponding to the working state OS, the release state RS can also be referred to as the downward folded state of the headrest padding 20. Similarly, the working state OS can also be referred to as the upward folded state of the headrest padding 20.

[0071] In short, it can be said that the height of the vehicle seat 12 with the rear seat assembly 16 installed is smaller when the headrest pad 20 is in the working state OS compared to when the headrest pad 20 is in the released state RS.

[0072] Figures 8a to 8c The steps of a method for installing a vehicle seat 12 within the passenger compartment 54 of a vehicle 10 are shown. The order of the steps in this method is also... Figure 7 It is shown schematically in the diagram.

[0073] In the first step S1, vehicle seats 12 are provided on the outside of the carriage 54 (see Figure 8a At this time, the headrest padding 20 is in the released state RS. Therefore, compared with the state in which the vehicle seat 12 is fully functionally installed in the passenger compartment 54, the height of the vehicle seat 12 to be installed in the passenger compartment 54 is reduced.

[0074] In the second step S2, the vehicle seat 12 is transferred into the carriage 54 through its opening (see...). Figure 8b When the front seat 12 is installed inside the vehicle compartment 54, the opening through which the front seat 12 is transferred is the front door opening of the vehicle compartment 54. When the rear seat 12 is installed inside the vehicle compartment 54, the opening through which the rear seat 12 is transferred is the rear door opening of the vehicle compartment 54. During transfer, the headrest padding portion 20 remains in the released state RS in order to minimize the physical extension of the rear seat assembly 16 along the length direction LD of the backrest support frame 22, and thus minimize the height of the vehicle seat 12 being installed.

[0075] Because the height of the vehicle seat 12 decreases as it is transmitted through the opening in the compartment 54, the opening in the compartment 54 can be designed to be relatively small. This allows for a low roofline 56 in the vehicle 10, which reduces the overall impact surface of the airflow, thereby reducing the aerodynamic drag of the vehicle 10. In this context, the impact surface of the airflow may also be referred to as the front surface of the vehicle 10.

[0076] Still in the second step S2, once the vehicle seat 12 is securely attached to the interior of the passenger compartment 54, for example by bolts, the headrest padding 20 transitions from the released state RS to the working state OS. This point can be referred to as the fully operational installation state of the vehicle seat 12 within the passenger compartment 54 (see [link to product description]). Figure 8c In this state, compared to the state where the vehicle seat 12 is transported through the opening of the carriage 54, the height of the vehicle seat 12 installed inside the carriage 54 is increased.

[0077] With the vehicle seat 12 in its fully operational state, it is ready for use by the occupants of the vehicle 10. Specifically, due to the increased physical extension of the rear seat assembly 16, the occupant's head can be reliably and securely supported in the event of a vehicle collision. This reduces the risk and / or severity of neck injuries to vehicle occupants in a collision.

[0078] As used herein, the phrase “at least one” in relation to a list of one or more entities should be understood to mean at least one entity selected from any one or more entities in the entity list, but not necessarily at least one of each entity specifically listed in the entity list, and does not exclude any combination of entities in the entity list. This definition also allows for the optional presence of entities other than those specifically identified in the entity list referred to by the phrase “at least one,” whether related to or unrelated to those specifically identified entities. Thus, as a non-limiting example, “at least one of A and B” (or equivalently, “at least one of A or B”, or equivalently, “at least one of A and / or B”) could in one example mean at least one (optionally including more than one) A, without B (and optionally including entities other than B); in another example, at least one (optionally including more than one) B, without A (and optionally including entities other than A); and in yet another example, at least one (optionally including more than one) A and at least one (optionally including more than one) B (and optionally including other entities). In other words, the phrases “at least one,” “one or more,” and “and / or” are open-ended expressions that are both connected and separate in operation. For example, each of the expressions “at least one of A, B, and C,” “at least one of A, B, or C,” “one or more of A, B, and C,” “one or more of A, B, or C,” and “A, B, and / or C” can mean a single A, a single B, a single C, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, A, B, and C together, and optionally, any of the above combined with at least one other entity.

[0079] By studying the accompanying drawings, the disclosure, and the appended claims, those skilled in the art can understand and implement other variations of the disclosed examples in practice with respect to the claimed disclosure. In the claims, the word "comprising" does not exclude other elements or steps, and the indefinite articles "a" or "an" do not exclude multiple. A single processor or other unit can perform the function of several items or steps recited in the claims. The fact that certain measures are recited in mutually different dependent claims does not mean that a combination of these measures cannot be used advantageously. Computer programs can be stored / distributed on suitable media, such as optical storage media or solid-state media provided with or as part of other hardware, but can also be distributed in other forms, such as via the Internet or other wired or wireless telecommunications systems. Any reference numerals in the claims should not be construed as limiting the scope of the claims.

[0080] List of reference numerals 10 vehicles 12 Vehicle Seats 14 Leg Supports 16 Vehicle seat rear assembly 18 Backrest 20. Headrest padding 22 Backrest support frame 24 Headrest Frame 26 Connecting parts 28 Connecting rods 30 The first end of the connecting rod 32 The second end of the connecting rod 34 Connecting rod 36 Connection Interface 38 recess 40 Extension 42. Fixing interface of headrest padding 44. Headrest frame fixing interface 46 Hook 48. Protruding ears 50. Bottom of the rear seat assembly of the vehicle 52. Top of the rear seat assembly of the vehicle 54 vehicle carriages 56 Roofline A angle D1 First Direction D2 Second Direction L length LD length direction OS working status PA1 First pivot axis PA2 Second Pivot Axis RS Release State

Claims

1. A vehicle seat rear assembly (16) for a vehicle seat (12), the vehicle seat rear assembly (16) comprising: - A headrest frame (24), which is integrally formed with the backrest support frame (22) of the vehicle seat (12), and - Headrest padding (20). The headrest padding (20) is movably connected to the headrest frame (24) when in the released state (RS), and The headrest frame (24) and the headrest pad (20) each include a fixing interface (42, 44) for permanently fixing the headrest pad (20) to the headrest frame (24) when in the working state (OS).

2. The vehicle seat rear assembly (16) according to claim 1, wherein, In the operating state (OS), the headrest padding (20) extends beyond the headrest frame (24) in the longitudinal direction (LD) of the backrest support frame (22).

3. The vehicle seat rear assembly (16) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, In the released state (RS), the headrest frame (24) extends beyond the headrest padding portion (20) in the length direction (LD) of the backrest support frame (22).

4. The vehicle seat rear assembly (16) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, In the released state (RS), the headrest pad (20) extends along a first direction (D1), and in the working state (OS), the headrest pad (20) extends along a second direction (D2), wherein the first direction (D1) and the second direction (D2) form an angle (A) of 30° to 180°.

5. The vehicle seat rear assembly (16) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, When in the released state (RS), the headrest padding (20) is movably connected to the headrest frame (24) via the connecting part (26).

6. The vehicle seat rear assembly (16) according to claim 5, wherein, The connecting part (26) includes at least one connecting rod (28), which has a first end (30) pivotally and / or slidably connected to the headrest padding part (20) and / or has a second end (32) pivotally and / or slidably connected to the headrest frame (24).

7. The vehicle seat rear assembly (16) according to claim 6, wherein, The connecting part (26) includes two connecting rods (28), each connecting rod (28) having a first end (30) pivotally and / or slidably connected to the headrest padding part (20) and / or a second end (32) pivotally and / or slidably connected to the headrest frame (24).

8. The vehicle seat rear assembly (16) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The fixing interface (44) of the headrest frame (24) includes at least one hook (46) and / or at least one lug (48), and the fixing interface (42) of the headrest padding (20) includes at least one lug (48) and / or at least one hook (46).

9. The vehicle seat rear assembly (16) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The length (L) of the rear seat assembly (16) in the released state (RS) of the headrest pad (20) and the length (L) of the rear seat assembly (16) in the working state (OS) of the headrest pad (20) differ by 20 mm to 100 mm.

10. A vehicle seat (12) comprising a vehicle seat rear assembly (16) according to any one of the preceding claims.

11. The headrest pad (20) for a vehicle seat rear assembly (16) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, the headrest pad (20) comprising a connection interface (36) for movably connecting the headrest pad (20) to a headrest frame (24) of the vehicle seat rear assembly (16) and a fixing interface (42) for permanently fixing the headrest pad (20) to the headrest frame (24).

12. The headrest padding portion (20) according to claim 11 further includes a recess (38) for receiving at least a portion of the connecting portion (26).

13. The headrest padding portion (20) according to claim 11 or 12, wherein, The fixing interface (42) includes at least one lug (48) and / or at least one hook (46) for permanently fixing the headrest padding (20) to the headrest frame (24).

14. A vehicle (10) comprising a vehicle seat rear assembly (16) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, a vehicle seat (12) according to claim 10, and / or a headrest padding portion (20) according to any one of claims 11 to 13.

15. A method for installing a vehicle seat (12) within a passenger compartment (54) of a vehicle (10), the method comprising: - A vehicle seat (12) is provided outside the passenger compartment of the vehicle (10), wherein the headrest padding portion (20) of the rear seat assembly (16) of the vehicle seat (12) is in a released state (RS) (S1), and - The vehicle seat (12) is transferred into the compartment (54) with the headrest pad (20) in the released state (RS) and then the headrest pad (20) is switched to the working state (OS) (S2).

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