Hinge system with return and dissipation function

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a hinging system (1) proposed for a vehicle seat comprising a seat cushion and a backrest tiltable with respect to the seat cushion, said system being configured to provide adjustment of the inclination angle between the backrest frame and the seat cushion frame of the seat and to ensure, in the event of a frontal impact, the return of the backrest to its upright position with respect to the seat cushion, the hinging system (1) comprising: - a hinge (13), - a return and dissipation device (14) configured to ensure the angular return of the backrest between a second support (12) and a first support (11) in the event that the torque between the second support (12) and the first support (11) exceeds a threshold value, with energy dissipation in the event of an impact, - an activation / deactivation system (15) configured to activate and deactivate the return and dissipation device (14) as a function of the angle of inclination of the backrest.

Description

[0001] This disclosure relates to an articulation system for a vehicle seat, the vehicle seat including a seat cushion and a backrest capable of tilting relative to the seat cushion, the system being configured to provide adjustment of the tilt angle between the backrest frames and to provide a backrest return function in the event of a frontal impact. Technical Field

[0002] This disclosure relates to a hinge system comprising: a first support member, typically a flange of a seat cushion frame or a gusset plate attached to a flange of a backrest frame; a second support member, typically a gusset plate attached to a backrest frame upright; and a hinge member connecting the first and second support members.

[0003] The hinge has a first part constrained to rotate with a first support and a second part constrained to rotate with a second support, and an adjustment and locking mechanism including an input member that, when actuated, is configured to allow unlocking of the rotation of the second part about the first part to allow adjustment of the tilt angle of the backrest frame relative to the seat cushion frame.

[0004] The prior art mainly knows ratchet-type or similar hinges, whose input component is connected to a handle that allows the backrest to be unlocked when it moves elastically away from a stable position; then the backrest can be pushed back to the desired position by the user's back, and the release of the handle ensures the seat is locked, which is particularly suitable for manual and quick adjustment of the backrest angle relative to the seat cushion.

[0005] The prior art also includes continuous (or continuously adjustable) hinges, such as those known from FR 3130706, which can be operated manually or by a motor.

[0006] A continuous hinge typically includes a first flange and a second flange that are rotatably mounted relative to each other and interconnected by an internal cycloidal drive.

[0007] A first flange can be fixed to a seat cushion, and a second flange can be fixed to a backrest, and vice versa. The first flange may include: a first outer ring gear centered on a first axis and fixed to the first flange; and a first cylindrical housing centered on the first axis. The second flange may include a second inner ring gear centered on a second axis parallel to the first axis and offset relative to the first axis, and the second ring gear is fixed to the second flange.

[0008] The second flange includes a second cylindrical housing centered on a second axis and defined on one side by the second flange and on the other side by a collar centered on the second axis.

[0009] The second ring gear may have an inner diameter larger than the outer diameter of the first ring gear, wherein the second cylindrical housing receives the first flange.

[0010] The first flange and the second flange are rotatably mounted relative to each other and are connected to each other by an internal cycloidal drive.

[0011] The cycloidal transmission device includes a first ring gear, a second ring gear, and an eccentric cam rotatably mounted around a second axis.

[0012] The eccentric cam also includes: two sliding elements, commonly referred to as "sliders," arranged between the inner core and the inner anti-rotation connecting wall of the first flange; and a spring arranged between the sliding elements. The spring forces the sliding elements apart.

[0013] When the mechanism is not operated by the user or is not motorized, the "slider" moves apart by spring movement, and rotation is irreversibly blocked by the wedge effect, thus ensuring the elimination of backlash.

[0014] Specifically, the first sliding element of the two sliding elements prevents the eccentric cam from rotating relative to the first flange in the first rotational direction through the wedge effect between the first sliding element and the outer bearing and the inner core. The second sliding element of the two sliding elements prevents the eccentric cam from rotating relative to the first flange in the second rotational direction through the wedge effect between the second sliding element and the outer bearing and the collar.

[0015] When the user operates the continuous articulation mechanism (manually or using a motor), this causes the eccentric cam to rotate, thereby causing the cycloidal movement between the first flange and the second flange.

[0016] Specifically, the input component rotates the inner core so that the first tooth of the inner core abuts against the first sliding element which brings it closer to the second sliding element, thereby releasing the eccentric cam and causing it to rotate in the first rotation direction, and causing the second tooth of the inner core to abut against the second sliding element which brings it closer to the first sliding element, thereby releasing the rotation and driving the eccentric cam in the second rotation direction.

[0017] The movement of the eccentric cam, according to the cycloidal movement of the transmission device, causes the first flange to rotate relative to the second flange, thereby modifying the tilt angle of the backrest.

[0018] This continuous hinge provides precise adjustment of the seat tilt angle, but in designs that require rotating gears, this can be time-consuming, especially when the operation is performed manually. Existing technology Prior art is also known from FR 2 971 748 A1, a hinge assembly reinforced in the event of an impact, and the hinge assembly including a quick-unlock / lock system comprising a pivotable hook that is normally engaged with a continuous hinge and enables the backrest to be quickly separated when the user requests a quick folding of the backrest.

[0019] For example, EP434807A1 also discloses a seat with an energy-absorbing device comprising a dissipation pin between a first support or gusset plate and a flange of a seat cushion frame. This energy-absorbing device is configured to absorb the energy of an impact as the dissipation pin moves along a slot from a first point to a second point, thereby deforming the gusset plate due to the impact. This energy-absorbing device is movable and independent of the angle of inclination of the backrest relative to the seat cushion.

[0020] FR 3108566 also knows of an articulation system that includes a return and dissipation device configured to return the seat back to its upright position in the event of a frontal impact when the backrest is tilted back at a significant angle, and to reduce the risk of injury to a seat occupant restricted by a seatbelt.

[0021] The return and dissipation device includes a dissipation pin that is fixed during normal use and, under impact torque, causes the shear tab to break and authorizes forced movement of the dissipation pin within a slot, thereby traveling along a stroke that returns the backrest to its upright position.

[0022] Document FR 3108566 also relates to the presence of a locking hook hinged to a gusset plate fixed to the backrest frame, which, under the action of the return member, hooks onto the dissipation pin in the hook-locked position, thereby preventing the pin from moving within the return slot when the backrest is slightly tilted. Once the backrest has been tilted from the upright position to the tilted position, the stop presses against the lever arm of the locking hook, ensuring that the locking hook moves from the hooked position that disables the return and dissipation mechanism to the released (or activated) position, thereby allowing the dissipation pin to move into the return slot.

[0023] According to the inventors, when the backrest is in an upright position, the locking hook system, which is directly hooked onto the pin, is subjected to very localized stress under impact, which is not ideal in terms of impact resistance.

[0024] When the locking hook retracts under the action of the mechanical stop on the lever of the locking hook, the inventors also discovered that the threshold angle for ensuring the activation of the return and activation device can vary from one production batch to another according to manufacturing tolerances.

[0025] This type of articulated system (which includes an activation / deactivation device based on a locking hook that pivots under the action of a stop) does not allow adjustment of the threshold angle at which the unlocking hook is retracted to the pin release position.

[0026] Whether it is the energy dissipation device in document EP434807A1 or the energy dissipation device in document FR 3108566, after the impact that causes the shear tab to break and the dissipation pin to be forced into the return slot, the backrest is no longer firmly held in place due to the pivot gap of the dissipation pin along the slot, which has been deformed and widened due to the impact, which is undesirable in the case of additional impact on the vehicle. Summary of the Invention

[0027] This disclosure improves all or part of the situation.

[0028] An articulation system for a vehicle seat is proposed, the vehicle seat including a seat cushion and a backrest capable of tilting relative to the seat cushion, the system being configured to provide adjustment of the tilt angle between the backrest frame and the seat cushion frame, and being configured to ensure that the backrest returns to its upright position relative to the seat cushion in the event of a frontal collision, the articulation system comprising: -a) A first support member, which is part of the seat cushion frame, for example formed by a flange, or configured to be fixedly attached to the seat cushion frame. -b) A second support member, which is part of the backrest frame or configured to be fixedly attached to the backrest frame of the seat. -c) A hinge, inserted between a first support and a second support, the hinge including a first part constrained to rotate with the first support and a second part constrained to rotate with the second support, and an adjustment and locking mechanism including an input member configured, when actuated, to allow unlocking of rotation of the second part about the first part to allow adjustment of the tilt angle of the backrest frame relative to the seat cushion frame, and when the input member is not actuated, the adjustment and locking mechanism locks the hinge. -d) A return and dissipation device configured to ensure the backrest angle returns when the torque about the axis of the hinge between the second support and the first support exceeds a threshold, accompanied by energy dissipation when the hinge is locked. The return and dissipation device includes: --d1) Dissipative plate, which is fixedly attached to the second part of the hinge. --d2) Dissipative pin, which is fixedly attached to the second support, passes through the dissipative plate, and is received in a calibration hole in the dissipative plate. The dissipation plate and the dissipation pin passing through the calibration hole are configured to rotatably fix the second support and the second component during tilt adjustment via the hinge when the torque between the second support and the first support is less than a threshold torque. The dissipation plate has a shear tab behind a slot, which is configured to break under the action of a dissipation pin when the torque exceeds a threshold, thereby allowing the dissipation pin to be forced to move along the slot and along a path permitted by the length of the slot to ensure that the angle of the backrest relative to the seat cushion returns.

[0029] -e) Activate / deactivate a system configured as an activation return and dissipation device and a deactivation return and dissipation device, the activation / deactivation system comprising: --e1) Locking mechanism, which includes ---The first set of teeth, which is integrated with the dissipation plate. ---Locking member, which includes a second set of teeth, is hinged to a second support member and configured to move between the two. ---Locked position, in which the second set of teeth of the locking member engages with the first set of teeth, the locked position being configured to disable the return and dissipation device. ---Unlocked position, in which the second set of teeth disengages from the first set of teeth. -e2) An actuator configured to control the movement of a locking member from a locked position to an unlocked position, and an electronic control unit including a processor, memory, and an instruction set configured to: --Obtain in real time the tilt angle α of the second support relative to the vertical direction when the first support extends longitudinally in the horizontal direction, or at least obtain a parameter representing that tilt angle α. --When the tilt angle α exceeds the threshold tilt angle α s When the locking component is commanded to enter the unlocked position, the return and dissipation device is activated, and the tilt angle α is less than or equal to the threshold tilt angle α. s At that time, the locking member is in the locked position.

[0030] The features disclosed in the following paragraphs may be implemented either independently of each other or in combination with each other: According to one embodiment, the articulation system may include a cam configured to control the locking member, the actuator being configured to retract the locking member from a locked position to an unlocked position by rotating the cam in a first rotational direction, the cam engaging the locking member to move the locking member into the unlocked position against a torsion spring, the return force of the torsion spring causing the command cam to rotate in a second rotational direction to move the locking member into the locked position.

[0031] According to one embodiment, the locking position between the locking member and the second set of teeth is a first locking position, in which the second set of teeth of the locking member engages on a first length segment of the first set of teeth. Furthermore, the first set of teeth has a second length section above which the second set of teeth of the locking member is configured to re-engage in a second locking position when the torque exceeds a threshold torque after the backrest has returned relative to the seat cushion by breaking the shear tab and moving the dissipation pin along the slot.

[0032] Specifically, the guide element is adjacent to a second length segment of the first set of teeth and is integral with the first set of teeth. The guide element is configured to engage with the locking member when the backrest returns relative to the first set of teeth via the movement of the second support member. During this period, the guide element presses the locking member into a second locking position.

[0033] According to one implementation, the threshold tilt angle α s Between 30° and 60°, particularly between 40° and 50°. The threshold tilt angle α s This makes it possible to distinguish between a first tilt range and a second tilt range below a threshold, where the tilt of the backrest relative to the vertical direction is slight or even moderate in the first tilt range, and the seat backrest is strongly tilted or even in a position that is typically referred to by those skilled in the art as “relaxed” or “zero gravity” in the second tilt range.

[0034] According to one embodiment, the first set of teeth and, where appropriate, the guiding element are formed by an attachment that is fixedly attached to the dissipative plate.

[0035] According to one embodiment, the hinge system may have a cover integral with a second support, thereby leaving an intermediate space between the second support and the cover, wherein a dissipation pin is disposed in the intermediate space, integral with the second support at a first end and integral with the cover at a second end, wherein the dissipation pin passes through a window in the first support.

[0036] According to one embodiment, the hinge is a continuous hinge, and the adjustment and locking mechanism includes a gear train configured to rotate the second component relative to the first component when the input component is rotated manually or under the action of an electric motor.

[0037] According to one implementation, the control unit obtains the tilt angle α in real time via an angle encoder that targets the rotation of the second component relative to the first component.

[0038] According to one embodiment, a rotational guide member is arranged between the dissipation plate and the second support member, the axis of which is centered on or adjacent to the average rotational axis of the hinge member, thereby ensuring rotational guidance of the second support member relative to the dissipation plate when the shear tab breaks and the dissipation pin moves along the slot.

[0039] This disclosure also relates to a vehicle seat comprising a backrest frame and a seat cushion frame connected by at least one hinge system according to this disclosure, particularly a first right hinge system and a second left hinge system, the seat including a three-point seatbelt. - Two lower anchor points, typically located on the seat frame on either side of the seat cushion, forming two anchor points for the abdominal webbing, or at least a portion of the webbing forming the abdominal webbing. - The third upper anchor point, which is secured to the upper portion of the backrest frame, is typically formed by a loop through which webbing passes, for use with diagonal webbing or a portion of the webbing forming diagonal webbing, which extends from one of the two lower anchor points to the third upper anchor point, with the webbing passing through the loop and extending to the retractor attached to the seat, typically on the backrest frame or seat cushion frame. Attached Figure Description

[0040] Other features, details, and advantages will become apparent upon reading the following detailed description and analysis of the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 [ Figure 1 [Illustrated is a view of a seat including a seat cushion and a backrest, the seat having an articulation system configured to adjust the angle of the backrest relative to the seat cushion and configured to return the seat to its upright position in the event of a collision when the angle of the seat is greater than a threshold, the seat being illustrated as having a nominal angle of the backrest.]

[0041] Figure 2 [ Figure 2 This is an exploded view detail of a hinge system, which includes: - A first support member belonging to or intended to be attached to the seat cushion frame and a second support member intended to be attached to the backrest frame. - A continuous hinge with an internal cycloidal drive, configured to provide fine adjustment of the backrest's tilt angle relative to the seat cushion as the input member of the hinge rotates; the rotation can be manual or motorized. - A return and dissipation device comprising: a dissipation pin integral with a second support member; and a dissipation plate including a hole through which the dissipation pin passes, the plate including shear tabs configured to break under the action of a central pin in the event of a frontal impact; and a slot through which the dissipation pin is movable by forcing the dissipation plate to allow the backrest to return. - An activation / deactivation system configured as an activation return and dissipation device and a deactivation return and dissipation device, the activation / deactivation system comprising: The locking mechanism includes a first set of teeth integral with a dissipation plate and a movable locking member configured to engage with the first set of teeth in a locked position via a second set of teeth to deactivate the return and dissipation device, and configured to move away to an unlocked position to activate the return and dissipation device.

[0042] Figure 2A [ Figure 2A [ ] is a cross-sectional view through the plane of the dissipation pin, showing how the end of the pin is attached to the cover and the second support.

[0043] Figure 3 [ Figure 3 The diagram shows several views depending on the angle α of the second support relative to the vertical direction when the first support extends in the horizontal direction. -(a) An inclination angle α of 25°, which is less than the threshold inclination angle value α set at 45°. s The locking component in the locked position deactivates the return and dissipation device. -(b) An inclination angle α of 45°, which is equal to the threshold inclination angle value αs set to 45°. s The locking component in the locked position deactivates the return and dissipation device. -(c) An inclination angle α of 46°, which is greater than the threshold inclination angle value α. s The return and dissipation mechanism is activated by moving the cam until it reaches the unlocked position of the locking member, wherein the second set of teeth disengages from the first set of teeth. -(d) An inclination angle α of 60°, which is greater than the threshold inclination angle value α. s The return and dissipation mechanism is activated by reaching the unlocked position of the locking member, wherein the second set of teeth disengages from the first set of teeth. -(e) as Figure 3 (c) The tilt angle α of 60° shown ensures that the energy of the impact ensures that the shear tabs break due to the movement of the dissipation pin after the backrest returns to its original position, thereby allowing the backrest to return via the relative rotational movement of the second support relative to the dissipation plate.

[0044] Figure 4 [ Figure 4 [This is a diagram showing the real-time operation of activating and deactivating the system based on the tilt angle α.]

[0045] Figure 5 [ Figure 5 [Illustration] is a block diagram showing an electronic control unit that receives an input signal representing the tilt angle α from an angle sensor and, as its output, controls the motor of an actuator to ensure that the locking member switches from the locked position to the unlocked position. Detailed Implementation

[0046] Now for reference Figure 1 The figure provides a general overview of the seat, which includes: - A seat frame AA, comprising two parallel flanges extending longitudinally from front to back in the x-direction, a front crossbeam connected to the front portion of the flanges, and a rear crossbeam connected to the flanges on the rear portion of the flanges, the crossbeams extending in the y-direction. - Backrest frame AD, which includes two uprights extending parallel to the vertical assembly, and an upper crossbeam connecting the two uprights at the top.

[0047] The seat has two hinge systems 1, namely the left hinge system and the right hinge system, which allow the backrest frame to be adjusted relative to the seat cushion frame in a manner that is essentially along an average axis of rotation parallel to the y-direction.

[0048] Adjustments can typically be manual or motorized.

[0049] The backrest frame (and therefore the backrest) can be tilted forward at an adjustable angle α relative to the vertical direction Z.

[0050] In the event of a frontal collision, it is well known that the risk of injury increases if the backrest tilts too far relative to its less reclined position. The purpose of the articulated system described in this disclosure is to provide a system that has the primary function of adjusting the tilt angle, and also the additional function of returning the backrest to its upright position when it has tilted too far back due to the energy of the impact, thereby limiting the risk of injury.

[0051] This articulation system is particularly useful for motor vehicle seats with three-point seat belts, which include: - Two lower anchor points, typically located on the seat frame on either side of the seat cushion, forming two anchor points for the abdominal webbing, or at least a portion of the webbing forming the abdominal webbing. - The third upper anchor point, which is secured to the upper portion of the backrest frame, is typically formed by a loop through which webbing passes for diagonal webbing (or a portion of the webbing forming diagonal webbing), which extends from one of the two lower anchor points to the third upper anchor point. In a frontal impact, seat occupants are restricted by seat belts and, in particular, by diagonal webbing, which, due to the upper anchor point on the backrest, generates torque at the hinge between the backrest and the seat cushion, tending to cause the backrest to tilt forward relative to the seat cushion.

[0052] This disclosure also relates to an articulation system 1 for a vehicle seat S, the vehicle seat including a seat cushion and a backrest capable of tilting relative to the seat cushion, the system being configured to provide adjustment of the tilt angle between the backrest frame AD and the seat cushion frame AA, and being configured to ensure that the backrest returns relative to the seat cushion A in the event of a frontal collision.

[0053] The articulated system 1 includes: -a) A first support member 11, which belongs to the seat cushion frame, for example forming a seat cushion frame flange, and is configured to be fixedly attached to the seat cushion frame AA of the seat. -b) A second support member 12, which is part of the backrest frame or configured to be fixedly attached to the backrest frame AD of the seat. -c) Hinge 13, which is inserted between the first support 11 and the second support 12.

[0054] The first support member 11 may be a metal plate, commonly referred to as a gusset plate, which is formed to be fixed to the base of the (right or left) flange of the seat frame by means of fasteners (such as screws, rivets) or by welding. The first support member 11 may also be formed directly from the flange of the seat frame.

[0055] The second support member 12 can be a metal plate, commonly referred to as a gusset plate, which is formed to be fixed to the base of the (right or left) flange of the seat cushion frame by means of fasteners (such as screws or rivets) or by welding. The second support member 12 can also be formed directly from the backrest frame uprights.

[0056] The hinge 13 is inserted between the first support 11 and the second support 12. The hinge 13 includes: a first component 130, such as a first flange constrained to rotate with the first support 11; a second component 131, such as a second flange constrained to rotate with the second support 12; and an adjustment and locking mechanism including an input member 132, which, when actuated, is configured to allow rotation of the second component 131 about the first component 130 to allow adjustment of the tilt angle of the backrest frame AD relative to the seat cushion frame AA. When the input member 131 is not actuated, the adjustment and locking mechanism typically ensures the locking of the hinge by the elastic return of the input member 131 to a stable locked position of the hinge.

[0057] Generally speaking, the right hinge system and the left hinge system can be substantially the same, wherein the left hinge of the left hinge system and the right hinge of the right hinge system are synchronized by a drive shaft that rotatably connects two input components 131 belonging to the right system and the left system, respectively.

[0058] According to one embodiment (not shown), the hinge may be a ratchet-type or similar hinge with an input member connected to a handle that allows the backrest to be unlocked when it is elastically moved away from a stable position; the backrest can then be pushed back to the desired position by the user's back, and the release of the handle ensures the seat is locked, which is particularly suitable for manual and quick adjustment of the backrest's tilt relative to the seat cushion.

[0059] According to another implementation scheme (especially in) Figure 2 As shown in the figure, the hinge is a continuous hinge that includes an adjustment and locking mechanism comprising a gear train configured to rotate the second component 131 relative to the first component 130 when the input component 132 is normally rotated manually or under the action of an electric motor. The continuous hinge can be an endocytic drive hinge as described in the description of document FR 3130706.

[0060] The first flange forming the first component 130 may be integral with the seat cushion, and the second flange forming the second component 131 may be integral with the backrest. The first flange may include: a first outer ring gear centered on a first axis and fixed to the first flange; and a first cylindrical housing centered on the first axis. The second flange may include a second inner ring gear centered on a second axis parallel to the first axis and offset relative to the first axis, and the second ring gear is fixed to the second flange.

[0061] The second flange includes a second cylindrical housing centered on a second axis and defined on one side by the second flange and on the other side by a collar centered on the second axis.

[0062] The second ring gear may have an inner diameter larger than the outer diameter of the first ring gear, wherein the second cylindrical housing receives the first flange.

[0063] The first flange and the second flange are rotatably mounted relative to each other and are connected to each other by an internal cycloidal drive.

[0064] The cycloidal drive includes a first ring gear, a second ring gear, and an eccentric cam that forms an input member 132 rotatably mounted about a second axis.

[0065] An eccentric cam typically also includes: two sliding elements, often referred to as "sliders," arranged between the inner core and the inner anti-rotation connecting wall of the first flange; and a spring arranged between the sliding elements. The spring forces the sliding elements apart.

[0066] When the mechanism is not operated by the user or is not motorized, the "slider" moves apart by spring movement, and rotation is irreversibly blocked by the wedge effect, thus ensuring the elimination of backlash.

[0067] Figure 2 An eccentric cam is shown with a square-section bore configured to be traversed by a control shaft that can be manually rotated by a knob or an electric motor.

[0068] Figure 2 The first support 11 and the second support 12 are also shown to have holes along the axis of the hinge to allow the drive shaft to pass through.

[0069] The articulation system also includes a return and dissipation device 14, configured to ensure the backrest angle returns to normal if the torque between the second support 12 and the first support 11 exceeds a threshold, accompanied by energy dissipation when the hinge 13 is locked. In a frontal impact, this torque exceeding the threshold is primarily due to the action of the diagonal webbing anchored to the upper point of the seatbelt on the backrest, which restrains the seat occupant by applying a forward force on the backrest.

[0070] exist Figure 1 In this context, along the seat's rear-to-forward orientation in the x-direction, the seat is considered to be rear-to-forward oriented in the vehicle's direction: therefore, the return and dissipation mechanism is configured to allow the seat back to move forward (i.e., in the direction of the vehicle) when a threshold torque is exceeded between the first and second supports about the hinge axis. Figure 1 (in the X direction) and return to the upright position.

[0071] The return and dissipation devices include: --d1) Dissipative plate 140, which is fixedly attached to the second component 131 of the hinge. --d2) Dissipation pin 141, which is fixedly attached to the second through-hole support 12 and accommodated in the calibration hole AL in the dissipation plate.

[0072] The dissipation plate 140 and the dissipation pin 141 passing through the calibration hole AL are configured to constrain the second support 12 and the second component 11 to rotate relative to each other when the torque between the second support 12 and the first support 11 is below a threshold, i.e., during normal operation, when the tilt angle is adjusted via the hinge 13. Therefore, when the position is locked by the hinge and the adjustment mechanism, the occupant can adjust the tilt angle of the backrest relative to the seat cushion without any play.

[0073] The dissipation plate 140 has a shear tab PT, behind which is a slot FT with an upright return function. The shear tab is configured to break under the action of the dissipation pin 14 when the torque exceeds a threshold, thereby allowing the dissipation pin to move along the slot FT and along the length of the slot for a permitted stroke to ensure the angle return of the backrest relative to the seat cushion.

[0074] Generally, the pin passes through the calibration hole AL to fit, thus limiting the clearance. The width of the slot can be smaller than the diameter of the calibration hole, so that the movement of the pin along the slot occurs during impact, thereby forcing the pin to deform the dissipation plate as it advances along the slot, and allowing the selected energy to be dissipated.

[0075] Through dissipation pin 141 from calibration hole ( Figure 3 (d) The angular displacement of the backrest during the return stroke after moving to the far end of the slot during the impact can allow the backrest to return to its upright position around the axis of the hinge, typically between 5° and 20° as a non-limiting example.

[0076] A rotation guide member 17 is arranged between the hinge and the second support member 12. The axis of the rotation guide member is centered on or close to the average rotation axis of the hinge. This ensures rotational guidance of the second support member 12 relative to the dissipation plate when the shear tab PT breaks and the dissipation pin moves along the slot FT. This ensures that the backrest returns to its upright position by pivoting when subjected to an impact.

[0077] The guide member may be a cup with an outer diameter that passes through a hole in the dissipation plate to be supported on the hinge, and the cup includes a protruding collar that passes through a hole in the second support and is folded over a through hole in the second support 12.

[0078] The articulation system also includes an activation / deactivation system 15, which is configured to activate and deactivate the return and dissipation device 14 according to the angle of the backrest.

[0079] Therefore, when the backrest is relative to the vertical direction (i.e., in the vertical direction) Figure 1 Activating the return and dissipation mechanism when tilting backward at a threshold tilt angle (e.g., 45°) in the Z direction can be useful to allow the backrest to return in the event of an impact exceeding a threshold torque, so as to minimize the risk of injury in the event of severe occupant tilting.

[0080] When the seat back is relative to the vertical direction ( Figure 1 Tilting the vehicle slightly or moderately (in the Z direction) for example, 45° or less, may be useful for disabling the return and dissipation devices, for example, to prevent the occupant's upper body from moving forward when the airbag deploys.

[0081] Activating / deactivating the system includes: -e1) Locking mechanism, which includes - The first set of teeth 150 is integral with the dissipation plate 140. - Locking member 151, the locking member including a second set of teeth, hinged to the second support member 12, and configured to move between the following two: --Locked position PV, in which the second set of teeth of the locking member 151 engages with the first set of teeth 150, the locked position being configured to disable the return and dissipation device. --Unlock position PDV, in which the second set of teeth disengages from the first set of teeth.

[0082] When the second set of teeth of locking member 151 engages with the first set of teeth, the locking mechanism absorbs the impact torque without preventing the dissipation pin from causing the shear tab ET to break: the return and dissipation devices are deactivated. Compared to the locking hook in FR 3108566, the locking effect produced by the engagement of the first and second teeth is robust, as the locking hook directly engages the dissipation pin in a localized area of ​​the pin. The locking between the first and second sets of teeth is achieved longitudinally through the engagement of several teeth of the first set with several complementary teeth of the second set, thereby ensuring a good distribution of locking force.

[0083] Activating / deactivating the system also includes e2) An actuator MT for controlling the movement of the locking member 151 from the locked position PV to the unlocked position PDV; and an electronic control unit UC including a processor, memory, and an instruction set configured to: --Obtain the tilt angle α of the second support member 12 relative to the first support member 11 in real time. --When the tilt angle α exceeds the threshold tilt angle αs When the locking member 151 is commanded to enter the unlocked position PDV, the return and dissipation device 14 is activated, and the tilt angle α is less than or equal to the threshold tilt angle α. s At that time, the locking member is in the locked position 151.

[0084] Unlike the complete mechanical solution in document FR 310085066 (whose threshold tilt angle can vary from one production run to another, depending on the manufacturing tolerances of the mechanical components), this activation / deactivation system enables the return and dissipation systems to operate relative to the threshold tilt angle α. s Precise deactivation and activation offer several advantages over the complete mechanical solution described in document FR 310085066.

[0085] Another advantage of the articulated system according to this disclosure is that, for the same structure, the threshold tilt angle α s The value can be set digitally, and is therefore easy to set. For the same articulated system structure, several seat integrations requiring different thresholds can be met through simple digital programming.

[0086] Generally speaking, the threshold tilt angle α s Between 30° and 60°, especially between 40° and 50°, such as in Figure 2 The example shown is 45°.

[0087] Generally, the control unit UC obtains the tilt angle α in real time via the angle encoder CP, which targets the rotation of the second component 131 relative to the first component 130. Figure 5 In this system, the control unit UC presents a signal from the angle encoder CP as an input signal. Angle codes are used to provide a precise indication of the tilt angle value, regardless of whether the hinge is manually operated or driven by a motor.

[0088] When the hinge is a continuously motor-driven hinge, the control unit can still obtain the tilt angle α from the signal from the motor that actuates the control axis.

[0089] In an advantageous implementation, the control unit can ensure that the tilt angle is obtained through redundancy of signals from not only the angle encoder but also from the electronic control board of the electric motor.

[0090] Figure 4 The operation flowchart of the control unit is shown. This control unit uses an angle encoder or a signal from the motor's electronic control board to monitor the tilt angle α in real time at step MES α. When the tilt angle α is greater than a threshold tilt angle α... S When (i.e., α>α) SIf the locking member is initially in the locked position during step ULCK, the control unit moves the locking member from its locked position PV to its unlocked position PDV, or if the activation / deactivation system is already in the unlocked position to release the movement of the slot dissipation pin, the unlocked position is maintained at least. In the event of a frontal impact, if a threshold is exceeded in this position and the hinge is locked, exceeding the threshold torque, and an automatic return occurs under the action of the dissipation pin, which causes the shear tab to break and move along the slot FT.

[0091] Conversely, if the tilt angle α is less than or equal to the threshold tilt angle (α≤α) S If the control unit commands the motor to move the locking member 151 from the unlocked position to the locked position PV (step LCK), thereby deactivating the device, specifically by moving the locking member 151 to the locked position VR via the authorized torsion spring. In the event of a frontal impact, when the hinge is locked and the threshold torque is exceeded, the impact force and torque are transmitted from the second support 12 to the dissipation plate through the engagement of the locking member 151 with the first tooth integral with the dissipation plate 140, thereby preventing the dissipation pin from causing the shear tab PT to break.

[0092] Generally, the locking mechanism may include a cam 152 configured to control the locking member 151, and the actuator MT configured to retract the locking member 151 from the locked position PV to the unlocked position PDV by rotating the cam 152 in a first rotational direction. The cam engages with the locking member 151 to move the locking member into the unlocked position PDV against the restoring force of the torsion spring RT.

[0093] The return force of the torsion spring RT causes the command cam to rotate in the second rotational direction to move the locking member into the locking position PDV.

[0094] In the locked position PV, during normal operation, the torsion spring RT pushes the cam in the second direction, thereby abutting against the back portion of the locking member 151, opposite the portion of the locking member 151 that carries the second set of teeth. This advantageously ensures a stable locked position. Under the action of an actuator (typically a motor), the cam is rotated in the first direction, thereby pressing against a lever arm that pivots the locking member from the locked position to the unlocked position, as... Figure 3 As shown in (c).

[0095] In one embodiment, the locking mechanism not only provides a lock to deactivate the return and dissipation device 14, but also allows the second support 12 to automatically relock relative to the dissipation plate 14 once the device has returned to the upright position and the dissipation pin has broken the shear tab. Figure 3The type of relocking shown in (e) ensures enhanced safety for seat occupants, especially when the vehicle is subjected to impacts other than frontal impacts.

[0096] Therefore, the locking position PV between the locking member 151 and the first set of teeth is a first locking position PV1, in which the second set of teeth of the locking member 151 engages on a first length segment of the first set of teeth. For example, in Figure 3 (a) and Figure 3 (b) shows the first locking position PV1.

[0097] The first set of teeth 150 also has a second length section in which the second set of teeth of the locking member 151 is configured to re-engage in a second locking position PV2 when the torque exceeds a threshold torque after the backrest returns relative to the seat cushion by breaking the shear tab PT and moving the dissipation pin 141 along the slot FT.

[0098] Once the dissipation pin 14, moving in the slot, has returned the backrest to its upright position, the second support 12 is advantageously locked relative to the dissipation plate 140, thereby preventing the dissipation pin from moving in the opposite direction along the slot. This relocking provides enhanced safety for the seat occupant, especially in the event of impacts other than those triggering the return and dissipation mechanism. Figure 3 (e) shows an example of relocking after impact and seat return.

[0099] For this purpose, the guide element 153 may be adjacent to a second length section of the first set of teeth 150, integral with the first set of teeth 150, and configured to engage with the locking member 151 when the backrest D straightens relative to the first set of teeth 150 by the displacement of the second support member 12. During this period, the guide element 152 presses the locking member 151 into a second locking position PV2, particularly at the end of travel when the dissipation pin 141 moves in the slot FT.

[0100] like Figure 2 As shown, the first set of teeth 150 and, where appropriate, the guide element 53 are formed by an attachment that is securely fastened to the dissipation plate 140. The insert may be a metal plate pre-cut with the first set of teeth 150, having a first length section, in which, during normal operation, the locking member is in a first locked position PV1 (…). Figure 3 (a) is locked on the first length segment. Following the first length segment is a second length segment, on which the locking member 150 can be locked after returning to the upright position due to an impact. The dissipative pin 141 can pass through a slot in the insert, which extends opposite to a return slot in the dissipative plate.

[0101] The hinge system may also include a cover 16 integral with the second support 12, thereby creating an intermediate space between the second support 12 and the cover 16. The dissipative pin 14 is disposed in the intermediate space, attached to the second support 12 at a first end and to the cover 16 at a second end. Note that the dissipative pin 41 passes through a window in the first support 11.

[0102] This disclosure also relates to a vehicle seat S, the vehicle seat comprising a backrest frame AD and a seat cushion frame AA, the backrest frame and the seat cushion frame being connected by at least one hinge system 1 according to any one of claims 1 to 9, particularly a first right hinge system and a second left hinge system, the seat comprising a three-point seat belt comprising: - Two lower anchor points, which are typically integrated with the seat frame AA on either side of the seat cushion, forming two anchor points for the abdominal webbing, or at least two anchor points for a portion of the webbing forming the abdominal webbing. - The third upper anchor point AH, which is fixed to the upper portion of the backrest frame AD, is typically formed by a loop through which webbing passes for diagonal webbing (or at least a portion of the webbing forming diagonal webbing) extending from one of the two lower anchor points to the third upper anchor point.

[0103] The webbing that passes through the loops typically extends above the back of the backrest to the retractor attached to the seat, usually on the backrest frame or seat cushion frame.

[0104] List of reference numerals 1: Hinged system S: Seat AD: Backrest frame AA: Seat Cushion Frame D: Backrest A: Seat cushion 11: First support component 12: Second support component 13: Hinges 130: The first component of the hinge (constrained to rotate together with the first support). 131: The second component of the hinge (hinged relative to the first component) 132: Input Components 14: Return and Dissipation Devices 140: Dissipative Plate 141: Dissipative Soldier AL: Kong PT: Shear plate FT: slot 15: Activate / Deactivate System 150: First tooth 151: Locking component PV: Locked Location PDV: Release Position MT: Actuator UC: Electronic Control Unit α: Inclination angle αs: Threshold tilt angle 152 Cam RT: Torsion Spring 153 guiding element 16. Covering AH. Third anchor point (upper part).

Claims

1. A hinge system (1) for a vehicle seat (S), the vehicle seat including a seat cushion and a backrest capable of tilting relative to the seat cushion, the system being configured to provide adjustment of the tilt angle between a backrest frame (AD) and a seat cushion frame (AA) of the seat, and being configured to ensure that the backrest (D) returns to its upright position relative to the seat cushion (A) in the event of a frontal collision, the hinge system (1) comprising: -a) A first support member (11), the first support member being part of the seat cushion frame, for example formed by a flange, or configured to be fixedly attached to the seat cushion frame. -b) A second support member (12), the second support member being part of the backrest frame or configured to be fixedly attached to the backrest frame of the seat. -c) A hinge (13) inserted between the first support (11) and the second support (12), the hinge (13) including a first part (130) constrained to rotate with the first support (11) and a second part (131) constrained to rotate with the second support (12), and an adjustment and locking mechanism including an input member (132) configured, when actuated, to allow unlocking of the second part (131) about the first part (130) to allow adjustment of the tilt angle of the backrest frame (AD) relative to the seat cushion frame (AA), and when the input member (132) is not actuated, the adjustment and locking mechanism locks the hinge. -d) A return and dissipation device (14) configured to ensure the angle of the backrest returns when the torque between the second support (12) and the first support (11) exceeds a threshold, and to dissipate energy when the hinge (13) is locked, the return and dissipation device comprising: --d1) Dissipative plate (140), which is fixedly attached to the second component (131) of the hinge (13). --d2) Dissipation pin (141), which is fixedly attached to the second support (12), passes through the dissipation plate, and is received in the calibration hole (AL) in the dissipation plate. The dissipation plate (140) and the dissipation pin (141) passing through the calibration hole (AL) are configured to rotatably fix the second support and the second component during the adjustment of the tilt angle via the hinge when the torque between the second support (12) and the first support (11) is less than the threshold torque value. The dissipation plate (140) has a shear tab (PT) behind which is a slot (FT). The shear tab is configured to break under the action of the dissipation pin (141) when the torque exceeds the threshold, thereby allowing the dissipation pin to be forced to move along the slot (FT) for a permitted distance along the length of the slot to ensure that the angle of the backrest relative to the seat cushion returns. -e) Activate / deactivate system (15), the activation / deactivation system being configured to activate the return and dissipation device (14) and deactivate the return and dissipation device, the activation / deactivation system comprising: --e1) Locking mechanism, the locking mechanism including ---First set of teeth (150), the first set of teeth is integral with the dissipation plate. ---Locking member (151), the locking member including a second set of teeth, the locking member being hinged to the second support member (12) and configured to move between the two. --Locked position (PV), in which the second set of teeth of the locking member (151) engages with the first set of teeth (150), the locked position being configured to deactivate the return and dissipation device. --Unlocked position (PDV), in which the second set of teeth disengages from the first set of teeth. -e2) an actuator (MT) configured to control the movement of the locking member (151) from the locked position (PV) to the unlocked position (PDV), and an electronic control unit (UC) including a processor, a memory, and an instruction set configured to: --Obtain in real time the tilt angle α of the second support member (12) relative to the vertical direction when the first support member (11) extends longitudinally in the horizontal direction, or at least obtain a parameter representing the tilt angle α. --When the tilt angle α exceeds the threshold tilt angle α s When the locking member (151) is commanded to enter the unlocked position (PDV), the return and dissipation device (14) is activated when the tilt angle α is less than or equal to the threshold tilt angle α. s At that time, the locking member is in the locked position (151).

2. The articulation system of claim 1, the articulation system comprising a cam (152) configured to command the locking member (151), the actuator (MT) configured to retract the locking member (151) from the locked position (PV) to the unlocked position (PDV) by: rotating the cam (152) in a first rotational direction, the cam engaging the locking member (151) to move the locking member into the unlocked position (PDV) against a torsion spring (RT), the return force of the torsion spring causing the command cam to rotate in a second rotational direction to move the locking member into the locked position (PDV).

3. The system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the locking position (PV) between the locking member (151) and the second set of teeth (150) is a first locking position (PV1), in which the second set of teeth of the locking member engages on a first length segment of the first set of teeth. Furthermore, wherein the first set of teeth (150) also has a second length section, in which the second set of teeth of the locking member (151) is configured to re-engage in a second locking position (PV2) when the torque exceeds the threshold torque, after the backrest has returned relative to the seat cushion by breaking the shear tab (PT) and moving the dissipation pin (141) along the slot (FT). And among them, Specifically, the guide element (153) is adjacent to the second length segment of the first set of teeth (150) and integral with the first set of teeth (150). The guide element (153) is configured to engage the locking member (151) when the backrest (D) returns relative to the first set of teeth (150) by the movement of the second support member (12). During this period, the guide element (153) presses the locking member into the second locking position (PV2).

4. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the threshold tilt angle α s Between 30° and 60°, especially between 40° and 50°.

5. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the first set of teeth (150) and, where appropriate, the guide element (153) in the system according to claim 4 are formed by an attachment and fixedly attached to the dissipation plate (140).

6. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the cover (16) is integral with the second support (12) to provide an intermediate space between the second support (12) and the cover (16), the dissipation pin (14) being disposed in the intermediate space, integral with the second support (12) at a first end and integral with the cover (16) at a second end, wherein the dissipation pin (141) passes through a window in the first support (11).

7. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the hinge is a continuous hinge and the adjustment and locking mechanism includes a gear train configured to rotate the second component (131) relative to the first component (130) when the input component (132) is rotated manually or under the action of an electric motor.

8. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the control unit obtains the tilt angle α in real time via an angle encoder, the angle encoder targeting the rotation of the second component (131) relative to the first component (130).

9. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that... A rotational guide member (17) is provided between the dissipation plate (140) and the second support member (12), the rotational guide member having an axis centered on or adjacent to the average rotational axis of the hinge member, thereby ensuring rotational guidance of the second support member (12) relative to the dissipation plate (14) when the shear tab (PT) breaks and the dissipation pin moves along the slot (FT).

10. A vehicle seat (S) comprising a backrest frame (AD) and a seat cushion frame (AA), the backrest frame and the seat cushion frame being connected by at least one hinge system (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, particularly a first right hinge system and a second left hinge system, the seat comprising a three-point seatbelt comprising: - Two lower anchor points, typically on the seat frame (AA) on either side of the seat cushion, thereby forming two anchor points for the abdominal webbing, or at least a portion of the webbing forming the abdominal webbing. - A third upper anchor point (AH), which is fixed to the upper portion of the backrest frame (AD), is typically formed by a loop through which the webbing passes for diagonal webbing or a portion of the webbing forming diagonal webbing, the diagonal webbing extending from one of the two lower anchor points to the third upper anchor point, the webbing passing through the loop and extending to a retractor attached to the seat, typically on the backrest frame or seat cushion frame.

Images